Abstract

Nirgundi (Vitex negundo Linn.) is a well- established Ayurvedic medicinal plant whose traditional use is particularly associated with Vata-Kapha predominant disorders, pain, swelling and inflammatory conditions. The present review reorganizes classical Dravyaguna information alongside contemporary botanical, phytochemical and pharmacological observations. Classical descriptions concerning Rasa- Panchaka, Karma and therapeutic indications are considered together with modern reports on constituents and biological activities. Published investigations describe flavonoids, lignans, iridoids, terpenoids, triterpenoids and phenolic compounds in different plant parts and preparations. Experimental studies have explored anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective and metabolic activities. These findings may provide supportive research perspectives for several traditional applications, but preclinical observations should not be equated with established clinical efficacy. Differences in plant material, extraction procedures, dose, experimental model and analytical methods also limit direct comparison among studies. Future work should emphasize botanical authentication, preparation standardization, pharmacokinetic evaluation, safety assessment and properly designed clinical studies.