A Review on Leucas Indica: A Promising Medicinal Herb for Modern Therapeutics

Abstract

Leucas indica (Lamiaceae), a widely distributed medicinal plant in tropical and subtropical regions, holds significant traditional and ethnomedicinal importance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of L. indica, covering its botanical profile, detailed morphological description, and geographical distribution. Traditionally, various parts of the plant have been utilized to manage ailments such as fever, inflammation, infections, and respiratory disorders. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic effects. Several analytical techniques, such as GC-MS, HPLC, and FTIR, have been employed to characterize its chemical constituents. Toxicological evaluations suggest a favorable safety profile at therapeutic doses, although further long-term studies are warranted. Emerging mechanistic studies highlight the plant's potential modulation of key molecular targets such as kinases and inflammatory mediators. The plant's bioactive compounds have opened new avenues for pharmaceutical formulation development and industrial exploitation. Moreover, strategies for the conservation and sustainable cultivation of L. indica are crucial given its medicinal demand. This review emphasizes the therapeutic potential of Leucas indica and underscores the need for advanced pharmacological, clinical, and biotechnological research to fully realize its applications in modern medicine and industry.

Keywords

Introduction

Fig. No. 1: Leucas indica Linn

7. Pharmacological Activities

• Antioxidant

Ramani et al. performed multiple experiments to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of the whole plant's petroleum ether and ethanolic extracts. The results showed that the extracts' reducing power was comparable to ascorbic acid. Free radical scavenging activities were also detected, but they were notably less than curcumin, with the superoxide radical scavenging activities of both extracts showing a concentration-dependent effect.23 Vinayagam and Sudha conducted experiments using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, nitric oxide scavenging assay, and superoxide scavenging assay with the methanolic leaf extract of Leucas indica. Their findings revealed strong antioxidant activity, attributed to the phenolic compounds present in the extract.24

• Anti-inflammatory

The ethanolic leaf extract of Leucas indica was administered orally to Wistar Albino rats at 75, 150, and 300 mg/ml concentrations to assess its anti-inflammatory activity against carrageenan-induced paw edema. Significant anti-inflammatory effects were observed at doses of 150 mg/ml and 300 mg/ml.25 Chandrashekhar and Prasanna (2010) extracted flavone glycoside (chrysoeriol-4’-O-α-L rhamnopyranosyl (1>2) β-D-glucopyranoside) from the ethanolic extract and evaluated its effect on carrageenan-induced paw edema in albino rats at a dosage of 300 mg/ml. They found that 62.5% of the edema was inhibited within 3 hours.26

• Antimicrobial

The crude aerial part extracts of Leucas indica in chloroform and methanol exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, while the aqueous extract significantly inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Salmonella typhi. This antimicrobial effect is attributed to the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, saponins, and tannins.27 Babu et al. reported that the ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of Leucas indica exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas species.28

• Antipyretic

Leucas indica has long been valued in traditional herbal medicine for its antipyretic properties. Scientific studies have supported these traditional uses. For example, research on the methanolic extract of Leucas clarki (a closely related species) revealed significant fever-reducing effects in animal models. The extract, given at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, significantly lowered rectal temperatures in rats with yeast-induced fever. Notably, the 400 mg/kg dose showed greater efficacy than paracetamol, maintaining its antipyretic action for up to six hours. These results indicate that Leucas indica and its related species may offer strong antipyretic effects, likely linked to their abundant flavonoid and phenolic contents.29

• Anthelmintic

Leucas indica, belonging to the Lamiaceae family, has been traditionally used to treat several health conditions, including helminthic infections. Modern scientific studies have confirmed its anthelmintic properties. In a study conducted by Ramalingam et al. (2010), the anthelmintic potential of Leucas indica was investigated using petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol extracts. The methanolic extract stood out by inducing worm paralysis and mortality at rates comparable to albendazole. The observed activity is believed to stem from its abundant phytochemicals, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. These findings validate its ethnomedicinal use against parasitic worms and indicate promising scope for developing plant-based anthelmintic drugs.30

• Analgesic

This study investigated the chronic analgesic effects of ethanolic extract of Leucas indica leaves (EELI) through acetic acid-induced writhing in mice (peripheral model) and the tail immersion test in rats (central model). The extract, prepared with 90% ethanol, was administered at doses determined according to OECD guideline No. 423. EELI showed a significant (p<0.01) peripheral analgesic response at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg in mice but failed to produce notable central analgesic effects in rats.31

• Antiulcer

To evaluate antiulcer potential, gastric ulcers were induced in male Wistar Albino rats and Swiss Albino mice using indomethacin. Animals were grouped into control, standard (misoprostol-treated), and two experimental groups receiving Leucas indica methanolic extract at 100 mg/ml and 200 mg/ml. The extract significantly reduced ulcer formation in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting its therapeutic potential in ulcer prevention.32

• Antidiabetic

Leucas indica, a plant long utilized in traditional Indian medicine, has shown notable antidiabetic potential in recent research. A study conducted by Rani and Rao (2021) assessed the hypoglycemic effects of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of Leucas indica var. nagalapuramiana in both normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. At a dose of 400 mg/kg, the ethanolic extract achieved a 36.33% reduction in blood glucose levels by the 6th hour, closely comparable to tolbutamide, the reference drug, which showed a 39.93% reduction. The aqueous extract at the same dose yielded a 30.13% decrease, suggesting that the hypoglycemic activity is dose-dependent. These antidiabetic effects are likely due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolics. The study also verified the safety of both extracts at doses up to 2000 mg/kg, with no signs of toxicity.33 In another study, Samanta et al. (2013) explored the hypoglycemic effects of the aqueous extract derived from the aerial parts of Leucas indica in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The results demonstrated a notable decrease in blood glucose levels, along with an improvement in body weight. These findings indicate the potential of the extract in alleviating diabetes and its associated complications.34

• Thrombolytic

To evaluate the thrombolytic activity, 5 mL of venous blood was drawn from three healthy volunteers and distributed into five sterilized, pre-weighed centrifuge tubes (1 mL per tube). The tubes were incubated at 37?°C for 45 minutes to allow clot formation. Afterward, the serum was carefully removed without disturbing the clots. The tubes were reweighed to determine clot mass. Then, 100 µL of methanolic extract at varying concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg/mL) was added to each tube. The tubes were incubated again at 37?°C for 90 minutes, after which the extent of clot lysis was assessed by weighing the tubes post-incubation.35

• Hepatoprotective

To investigate the hepatoprotective effects of Leucas indica, an ethyl acetate extract of the aerial part was combined with 5% gum acacia and administered to CCl4-treated albino male rats. The extract significantly lowered the elevated enzyme levels typically induced by CCl4, suggesting a protective role in promoting the regeneration of liver cells damaged by the chemical.36

• Wound healing

Saha et al. conducted a study on the wound healing activity of Leucas indica (Leucas lavandulaefolia) using Wistar albino rats. Six groups of rats, each consisting of six animals, had a 500 mm² full-thickness excision wound made and were left exposed. The animals were treated with 0.2% nitrofurazone, simple ointment, and methanolic extracts of Leucas indica at 200 mg/ml and 400 mg/ml. The study found that the group treated with the 400 mg/ml dose of the plant extract had a faster wound closure time of 16 ± 2 days, outperforming the 200 mg/ml extract, nitrofurazone ointment, and simple ointment, which all showed a closure time of 18 ± 2 days.37 Shankar et al. conducted an experiment that yielded similar results, reinforcing the findings of previous studies and providing additional evidence of the significant wound healing properties of Leucas indica 27

• Cytotoxic/anticancer

Leucas indica, traditionally recognized for its medicinal value, has demonstrated notable cytotoxic effects. Methanolic extracts from its flowers exhibited strong activity against various human cancer cell lines, particularly MCF-7 (breast cancer) cells.38 Additionally, methanolic leaf extracts showed cytotoxicity in brine shrimp lethality assays, while in silico docking studies indicated high binding affinity with cancer-associated protein kinases.39 Allium cepa root tip assays also supported genotoxic effects.40

• Neuropharmacological property

Anarthe S. et al. investigated the psychological effects of methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of Leucas linifolia Spreng, a widely used herb in India. The study revealed notable nociceptive, sedative, and anxiolytic activities, along with reduced motor activity. Both extracts were found to be safe up to a dose of 2500 mg/kg body weight. These findings highlight the plant’s potential as a neuroactive agent, although further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying pharmacological mechanisms.41

8. Toxicology and Safety Profile

Acute and Chronic Toxicity:

Leucas indica, a plant long used in Indian traditional medicine, has undergone both acute and chronic toxicity assessments. Studies involving ethanolic leaf extracts administered to Swiss albino mice demonstrated no significant toxic effects, confirming its safety at tested doses. In an acute toxicity test, a single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg produced no mortality or behavioral abnormalities during a 72-hour monitoring period. Similarly, chronic toxicity studies with a daily oral dose of 300 mg/kg over 90 days revealed no significant changes in body or organ weights, nor any histopathological alterations in major organs like the liver, kidney, and stomach. Biochemical assessments, including liver and renal function tests, remained within physiological limits, affirming the extract's safety at these concentrations.42

Genotoxicity Assessment:

Genotoxicity evaluation via the Allium cepa assay revealed that Leucas indica leaf extracts did not induce significant chromosomal aberrations or alter the mitotic index, indicating minimal genotoxic risk.43 A separate investigation assessed the genotoxic potential of Leucas indica using the Allium cepa root tip assay. The aqueous leaf extract, comprising both polar and non-polar constituents, was evaluated at concentrations ranging from 0.125% to 2%. Results showed a dose-dependent reduction in the mitotic index and an increase in chromosomal abnormalities, including nuclear lesions and irregular cell wall formation. The EC?? for root growth inhibition was determined to be 1.58%, indicating moderate cytotoxicity and underscoring the need for cautious use at higher doses or with prolonged exposure.44

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Leucas indica, traditionally used in herbal medicine, has been studied for its bioactive constituents and their modulatory effects on various molecular pathways. Evidence suggests these compounds may regulate critical biological processes involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular signaling.

Known Molecular Targets and Pathways

1. Antioxidant Mechanisms via Nrf2 Activation: Leucas indica has shown antioxidant effects by triggering the Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) pathway, resulting in increased expression of Phase II detoxifying enzymes like HO-1, GCLM, and NQO1, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
2. Cytotoxicity and Anticancer Potential: In vitro assays have demonstrated that methanolic flower extracts of Leucas indica possess significant cytotoxic effects against human cancer cell lines such as MCF-7 (breast cancer), HeLa (cervical cancer), HCT-116 (colon cancer), and HL-60 (leukemia), with the strongest activity noted in MCF-7 cells, having an IC?? of 16 μg/mL.
3. Antidiabetic Activity: The aqueous extract obtained from the aerial parts of Leucas indica exhibited hypoglycemic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, causing a notable dose-dependent decrease in fasting blood glucose levels, similar to the effects of glibenclamide. It also enhanced serum biochemical profiles and prevented cellular damage in the pancreas, liver, and kidneys.
4. Antioxidant Properties: Methanolic extracts derived from the flowers and leaves of Leucas indica have shown effective free radical scavenging properties. The flower extract displayed strong antioxidant potential, with IC?? values of 0.19 μg/mL for the DPPH assay, 2.05 μg/mL for nitric oxide scavenging, and 2.15 μg/mL for superoxide radical scavenging. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds, which likely contribute to this activity.
5. Antimicrobial Activity: Methanolic crude extracts of Leucas indica var. Nagalapuramiana have exhibited antimicrobial effects against a variety of bacterial and fungal species. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of several bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, saponins, and reducing sugars. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 105 µg GAE/µg and 62.34 µg Rutin/µg, respectively.

10. Formulation and Industrial Potential

Formulation Potential

1. Pharmaceutical Applications:

• Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Agents: The methanolic extract of Leucas indica has shown notable analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, indicating its potential as a natural remedy for pain relief.
• Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Agents: The plant demonstrates significant antioxidant and antimicrobial qualities, positioning it as a potential ingredient in products designed to address oxidative stress and microbial infections.

2. Cosmetic and Personal Care Products:

• Wound Healing and Skin Care: Leucas indica has long been used in traditional medicine to heal wounds and treat skin ailments, making it a valuable addition to topical formulations that support skin health and healing.
• Anti-aging Products: Due to its antioxidant properties, the plant may serve as an effective component in anti-aging formulations, including creams and serums.

3. Nutraceuticals:

• Dietary Supplements: The plant's bioactive compounds could be incorporated into dietary supplements designed to improve general health and wellness.

Industrial Potential

1. Essential Oil Production:

• Aromatic Compounds: Leucas indica contains essential oils with a fragrant aroma, making it ideal for extraction and application in the fragrance industry.

2. Agricultural Applications:

• Natural Pesticides: The compounds in the plant possess insecticidal properties, indicating their potential for use in the creation of eco-friendly pesticides.

3. Textile Industry:

• Natural Dyes: Investigating the plant's phytochemicals could uncover compounds that can be used as natural dyes in the textile industry.

11. Conservation and Cultivation

Cultivation of Leucas indica

Propagation Methods:

• Seed Propagation: Leucas indica can be grown from seeds by planting them in well-draining soil at the start of the growing season. Maintain moisture in the soil until germination occurs, then reduce watering.55
• Cutting Propagation: This propagation technique uses stem cuttings from mature Leucas indica plants, which are rooted in an appropriate growing medium. It’s best to take the cuttings during cooler times of the day either early morning or late evening. Once roots develop, the cuttings can be moved to their final growing site.56
• Division Propagation: This technique is mainly employed to propagate mature Leucas indica plants by separating their roots and planting them in an appropriate growing medium.56

Soil and Fertilization:55

• Leucas indica thrives best in loamy soil that drains well, with watering intervals that allow the soil to dry slightly to avoid root rot.
• Fertilize monthly with a 5-10-5 nutrient mix throughout the growing season to ensure vigorous growth, being cautious not to overdo it to avoid nutrient toxicity.

Climate and Temperature:

Leucas indica grows best in tropical to subtropical regions, favoring temperatures from 20°C to 35°C and needing full sun exposure for ideal development.

Conservation of Leucas indica

Sustainable Harvesting:

• In areas such as the Kangchenjunga Landscape, the overharvesting of medicinal plants like Leucas indica has jeopardized their availability, highlighting the need for sustainable collection practices to aid in their preservation.57

Cultivation in Home Gardens:

• By cultivating Leucas indica at home, pressure on wild stocks can be minimized, securing a reliable supply for traditional medicinal use.58

Awareness and Education:

• Raising awareness among local communities about the value and sustainable use of Leucas indica is key to its long-term conservation.59

12. Future Prospectives60,61,62,63,64,65

The therapeutic value of Leucas indica has been highlighted by both traditional medicine and modern pharmacological evaluations, though further research is needed to fully harness its potential across diverse scientific domains:

1. Advanced Phytochemical and Metabolomic Studies

• Comprehensive profiling of secondary metabolites using techniques like LC-MS, GC-MS, and NMR is still limited.
• Identification and isolation of novel bioactive compounds could contribute to drug discovery.
• Standardization of extracts and chemotaxonomic studies will aid in quality control for medicinal formulations.

2. Mechanistic and Molecular Studies

• Deeper investigations into the mechanisms of action of its active compounds are essential.
• Focus on target-specific pathways (e.g., anti-inflammatory, anticancer, or neuroprotective pathways)
• Applying genomic and proteomic approaches to examine gene expression and protein interactions in response to treatment with L. indica.

3. In Vivo and Clinical Validation

• Most current studies are limited to in vitro models; in vivo studies and especially clinical trials are lacking.
• Long-term toxicity and pharmacokinetics studies are needed for safety validation.
• Development of standard dosage guidelines based on clinical data.

4. Formulation Development

• Scope to develop herbal formulations, neutraceuticals, or cosmeceuticals based on L. indica.
• Incorporation into novel drug delivery systems such as nanoparticles, liposomes, or transdermal patches.
• Exploring its use in polyherbal combinations for synergistic effects.

5. Conservation and Sustainable Cultivation

• With increasing interest, sustainable harvesting and cultivation protocols should be developed.
• Investigation into agronomic practices for optimising the yield of bioactive constituents.
• Conservation strategies for wild populations, especially if overexploitation becomes a concern.

6. Socioeconomic and Ethnobotanical Research

• Study the impact of commercialization on local communities that traditionally use the plant.
• Documentation of indigenous knowledge from various regions to preserve ethnobotanical heritage.
• Promote community-based cultivation and small-scale industries.

7. Biotechnological Applications

• Use of plan tissue culture and bioreactor systems for the large-scale production of secondary metabolites.
• Genetic engineering or CRISPR techniques to enhance specific phytochemical pathways.

CONCLUSION

Leucas indica is a versatile medicinal plant with a rich history of traditional use and significant pharmacological potential. Comprehensive studies have revealed that the plant is a valuable source of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, alkaloids, and essential oils, which contribute to its wide spectrum of therapeutic activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic effects. Various analytical techniques have been employed to characterize its phytoconstituents, and toxicological studies generally support its safety at appropriate doses. Mechanistic investigations have begun to elucidate its interaction with molecular targets, providing a scientific basis for its traditional uses. Furthermore, the plant's formulation potential and industrial applications present promising opportunities for the development of novel therapeutic products. However, sustainable cultivation practices and conservation strategies are necessary to ensure its long-term availability. Future research should focus on detailed clinical studies, mechanistic insights, and advanced biotechnological interventions to fully harness the medicinal and industrial potential of Leucas indica.

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