Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile of Cissampelos pareira Linn.: A Multi Targeted Therapeutic Approach

Abstract

Cissampelos pareira (Patha) in Ayurveda and other traditional medical systems, the climbing shrub Patha (Menispermaceae) is widely used to treat fever, diarrhea, inflammation, pain, gastrointestinal problems, gynecological illnesses, metabolic abnormalities, infections, and toxic situations. Patha is described under several therapeutic groups in classical Ayurvedic books emphasizing its tridosha-shamaka, jwaraghna, atisaraghna, and vishaghna qualities. The plant is rich in structurally diverse phytoconstituents, predominantly isoquinoline and bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, along with flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, pectin, sterols etc. Pharmacological studies conducted using in vitro, in vivo, and clinical models demonstrate a broad spectrum of biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, anticancer and antiviral activity against all four dengue virus serotypes. The present review critically compiles and updates the available information on botanical characteristics, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and safety aspects of Cissampelos pareira. Relevant literature was systematically collected from major scientific databases covering studies published up to 2025. Although substantial preclinical evidence supports its therapeutic potential, limited clinical trials are available, highlighting the need for further clinical validation.