Phytopharmacology of Abelmoschus moschatus medik.: A review

Abstract

Herbal medicine is playing an essential role in health care, with about 75–80% of the world’s population relying mainly on the use of traditional or alternative systems of medicines for their primary health care. Abelmoschus moschatus Medik., commonly known as musk okra belonging to the family Malvaceae, is used traditionally in the treatment of various health ailments throughout the world. The plant has been extensively studied by various researchers for its biological activities and therapeutic potentials. The present review summarizes information published in various academic journals and books, covering folkloric uses, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities of the extracts and isolated compounds, and safety profile of A. moschatus for further research studies.