PHARMACOLOGY OF ECHINOCHLOA CRUS-GALLI - A REVIEW

The preliminary phytochemical studies showed that Echinochloa crus-galli contained alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, flavonoids, phytosterols/terpenes, proteins, and saponins. Nutritional analysis of plant grains showed that they contained protein 9.0-13.7%, fat 2.3-3.5%, carbohydrates 63.8-79.9%, fiber 5.2-29.9%, energy 310-364 k cal, Ca 8 mg/ 100g, Fe 2.9 mg/ 100g, thiamin 0.41 mg/ 100g, riboflavin 0.28 mg/ 100g and niacin 4.5 mg/ 100g. The previous pharmacological studies revealed that the plant possessed antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial hypolipidemic and anti-obesity effects. The current review highlights the chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of Echinochloa crus-galli. Ketwords: Echinochloa crus-galli, Pharmacology, contents