Alexander von Humboldt Fellow (Germany),
Nardostachys jatamansi (D. Don) DC. (Valerianaceae sensu lato, now Caprifoliaceae), commonly known as spikenard or jatamansi, is a highly valued aromatic medicinal herb endemic to the alpine and subalpine regions of the Himalayan range. Currently placed within the family Caprifoliaceae, the species has been extensively utilized across diverse traditional medical systems, including Ayurveda, Unani, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Tibetan medicine. However, intensive harvesting driven by commercial demand, coupled with ongoing habitat degradation, has led to a severe decline in natural populations, resulting in its classification as a critically endangered species. Phytochemical studies have revealed a rich repertoire of structurally diverse sesquiterpenoids, notably jatamansone, nardal, nardin, and narjatamolide, which underpin many of the plant’s therapeutic properties. These compounds are associated with neuroprotective, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antiepileptic, and central nervous system–modulating activities. Correspondingly, pharmacological investigations have demonstrated a broad spectrum of bioactivities, including antifungal, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anticonvulsant, antiparkinsonian, antioxidant, antidiabetic, tranquilizing, and antiestrogenic effects. The objective of the present review is to comprehensively synthesize existing knowledge on the traditional applications, ethnomedicinal relevance, phytochemical diversity, and pharmacological potential of N. jatamansi. Furthermore, it examines contemporary strategies for genetic improvement, conservation, and sustainable utilization while highlighting critical research gaps and future directions necessary for the long-term preservation and rational exploitation of this highly significant Himalayan medicinal species.
Nardostachys jatamansi, Himalayan medicinal plant, Phytochemistry, Conservation, Biotechnological opportunities
