Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Aerva lanata, commonly referred to as mountain knotgrass, is a member of the Amaranthaceae family and is primarily found in the regions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. This plant is well-known for its extensive pharmacological benefits, which include diuretic, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, and anticancer properties. It is rich in various bioactive compounds such as canthin-6-one derivatives and β-carboline alkaloids, along with flavonoids like kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. Additionally, it contains other significant compounds including lupeol, tannic acid, and benzoic acid. Nutritionally, the leaves of Aerva lanata are abundant in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential minerals such as phosphate, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. This rich composition of phytoconstituents and nutrients enhances its therapeutic and dietary value. Renowned for its medicinal properties, Aerva lanata is widely employed in ethnomedicine to address various health issues such as urinary stones, skin conditions, and diabetes. The plant exemplifies the synergy between traditional remedies and modern scientific approaches to provide comprehensive health solutions. Its pharmacological activities encompass antidiuretic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects, underscoring its potential in both traditional practices and contemporary medicine. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated the green synthesis of nanoparticles using Aerva lanata flowers. This process has led to the creation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), silver-copper nanoparticles (Ag-Cu NPs), and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), all of which exhibit notable antibacterial and antioxidant properties. These findings highlight the eco-friendly potential of Aerva lanata for diverse therapeutic applications and industrial uses. The synthesized nanoparticles have shown significant efficacy against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as promising cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines. This positions Aerva lanata as a valuable resource in both medicinal chemistry and sustainable nanotechnology.