pharmacology

Pergularia daemia (Forssk.) Chiov., commonly known as Veliparuthi or Utranmul, is a perennial climbing herb belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family. This plant has been extensively used in traditional medicinal systems including Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha for treating various ailments. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties of P. daemia. The plant contains diverse bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, and steroids. Extensive pharmacological studies have demonstrated multiple therapeutic properties including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anticancer, wound healing, and immunomodulatory activities. This review critically evaluates the scientific evidence supporting traditional uses and discusses the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed pharmacological effects. Despite promising preclinical findings, clinical trials are needed to validate therapeutic efficacy and safety. This review provides a comprehensive foundation for future research aimed at developing evidence-based phytopharmaceuticals from P. daemia.