An Update on Therapeutic Role of Ballota Nigra (Black Harehound)-A Review

Ballota nigra (B.nigra) is a plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is used traditionally for purposes of health benefits including diabetes. The chemical analysis of this plant has shown that the plant contains phenylpropanoid glycosides, diterpenes, flavonoids, oils and betaines. Previous black horehound pharmacological investigations showed that the plants its effects are neuro-sedative, antidepressant, antioxidant, antibacterial, insecticide, anticholinesterase and antifeedant. In this review, to compile the sources, chemical constituents, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic, anticholinesterase, and anticancer activities of B.nigra , classical as well as online-literature were studied which includes books on phytochemistry and the electronic search (SciFinder, Pubmed, the Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and etc). The literature on the experimental and clinical trials of B.nigra gives clear evidence that the plant can be used as supplements to fight against life threatening diseases. This review highlights an update on the source of the plant, chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of Ballota nigra to open the door for further pharmacological and clinical utility of the plant.