Clerodendrum phlomidis L.f. (Agnimantha): A Comprehensive Review

By Jayesh D. Patil1, Zeeshan A. Pinjari1, Sushant R. Panpatil1, Niraj S. Pawar1, Hemant P. Suryawanshi2*, R. A. Ahirrao3

1P. G. College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, Nandurbar (MS), India
2Professor, Same Institution
3Principal, P. G. College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research

Published: June 2025 | DOI: — | Download PDF

Abstract

Clerodendrum phlomidis (Agnimantha) is a medicinal shrub widely used in Ayurveda. It contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, sterols, and phenolic acids. Pharmacological studies demonstrate anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anthelmintic activities. The plant also contributes to ecological stability and biodiversity. While preclinical evidence supports its therapeutic potential, further clinical validation is required.

Keywords:

Clerodendrum phlomidis, Agnimantha, phytochemicals, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, herbal medicine

Introduction

Clerodendrum phlomidis is a perennial medicinal shrub belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is widely distributed in India and used in Ayurvedic formulations such as Dashamoola. The plant is valued for treating inflammation, respiratory disorders, and metabolic diseases.

Botanical Description

The plant is a shrub with opposite ovate leaves, serrated margins, and tubular flowers arranged in clusters. It thrives in dry tropical regions and is commonly found in scrublands and open forests.

Traditional Uses

Various parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine for treating dyspepsia, fever, inflammation, respiratory disorders, diabetes, and urinary conditions. Leaves and roots are commonly used.

Phytochemical Constituents

The plant contains flavonoids (scutellarein, pectolinarin), terpenoids (clerodin), sterols (β-sitosterol, clerosterol), and phenolic compounds. GC-MS analysis reveals fatty acids, squalene, and phytol among other constituents.

Pharmacological Activities

Anti-inflammatory Activity

Extracts show significant reduction in inflammation and cytokine levels such as TNF-α and IL-6 in experimental models.

Antioxidant Activity

The plant exhibits strong free radical scavenging activity due to its phenolic and flavonoid content (IC₅₀ ≈ 141 µg/mL).

Antidiabetic Activity

Extracts reduce blood glucose levels in experimental models, possibly by enhancing insulin activity and glucose metabolism.

Anthelmintic & Antimicrobial Activity

Leaf extracts show activity against parasitic worms and microbial pathogens, supporting traditional use.

Safety and Toxicology

The plant is generally safe at therapeutic doses, though high doses may cause mild hematological changes. No major organ toxicity has been reported in animal studies.

Ecological Importance

Clerodendrum phlomidis supports pollinator biodiversity and helps in soil conservation in arid regions. It is used in agroforestry and ecological restoration.

Conclusion

Clerodendrum phlomidis is a valuable medicinal and ecological plant with diverse pharmacological properties. Further research is needed to validate clinical efficacy and standardize therapeutic applications.

References

  1. Mishra SH. Clerodendrum phlomidis review.
  2. Singh S. et al. Ecology and uses.
  3. Wang JH. Pharmacological properties.
  4. Additional references as per original article.