Eulophia Nuda: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Eulophia nuda Lindl. (Orchidaceae) is a small perennial terrestrial herb found in central and Southeast Asian regions usually known for its ethnomedicinal uses by folklore and local healers in India and different regions of the world. E. nuda tubers have been used for the treatment of tumors, scrofulous glands of neck, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchitis, blood diseases, vermifuge, etc. Phytochemical properties of this plant are not much explored. Very few compounds such as phenanthrene derivatives and benzylated phenanthrene derivatives have been isolated from this plant. Pharmacologically, this plant is active in respect of cytotoxic, antioxidant, antiglycation and DNAprotection properties. The traditional knowledge and various phytochemical and pharmacological activities of this plant have been at the focus of research. The aim of present review is to systematically appraise about the literature available till date on this plant about its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of its crude extract and isolated compounds.