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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Crossandra infundibuliformis (L.) Nees: A comprehensive review of its botanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological profile
Authors
Chandana A, Ahalyadevi K H, Dr. Suresha B S, Dr. T Balasubramanian
Abstract
Crossandra infundibuliformis (L.) Nees, belonging to the family Acanthaceae and commonly known as
the firecracker flower, is a perennial tropical ornamental plant widely
cultivated in South India for its aesthetic, medicinal, and pharmaceutical
value. Indigenous to Southern India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, the plant is
traditionally used in various systems of medicine to manage a wide range of
ailments. Different parts of the plant—including leaves, roots, stems, flowers,
and seeds—have been reported to possess diverse therapeutic properties such as
antimicrobial, antibacterial, antioxidant, wound-healing, hepatoprotective,
antiulcer, antidiabetic, aphrodisiac, immunomodulatory, antisolar,
antitubercular, and anticancer activities. Phytochemical investigations of
extracts prepared using solvents of varying polarity have revealed the presence
of bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins,
steroids, glycosides, phenols, triterpenes, and reducing sugars. Several
experimental studies have validated its traditional uses, demonstrating
significant pharmacological potential comparable to standard drugs in certain
models. In addition to its medicinal relevance, C. infundibuliformis is
valued for its adaptability to tropical climates and its ornamental appeal,
with multiple cultivars exhibiting a wide range of flower colours. This review
highlights the botanical description, geographical distribution, traditional
uses, phytochemical profile, and pharmacological activities of Crossandra
infundibuliformis, emphasizing its potential as a promising source of
natural therapeutic agents and supporting the need for further scientific and
clinical investigations.
Pages:134-137
How to cite this article:
Chandana A, Ahalyadevi K H, Dr. Suresha B S, Dr. T Balasubramanian "<i>Crossandra infundibuliformis</i> <i>(L.)</i> Nees: A comprehensive review of its botanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological profile". International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and
Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 134-137
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