Neuropharmacological potential of Clitoria ternatea linn. - A review

Clitoria ternatea Linn (CT) a perennial twing herb, steams are terete, more or less pubescent belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a well-known plant in Indian traditional medicines for centuries. It is a highly valued herb as it acts as a rejuvenator for brain and nervous system. It is a main medhya drug, which has the property of improving the memory power and intellect. The roots, seeds and leaves of Clitoria ternatea Linn. have long been widely used as a brain tonic and is believed to endorse memory and intelligence. It is reported to have antidepressant, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic, local anesthetic, purgative and anti-diabetic activity. It is also used for treatment of snakebite and scorpion sting in India. This review presents a pragmatic description that deals with chemical constituents and neuropharmacological properties of C. ternatea for easy and better understanding of the outstanding medicinal potential of this very special plant.