Nature’s Ancient Remedy: Unveiling the Secrets of Nardostachys Jatamansi- Sesquiterpenoids, Alkaloids and Fatty Acid Esters

Resumen

Natural cures are generally considered safe, and plants are reported to be a traditional medicine for treating and managing various medical ailments. Recent research highlights the health benefits of biochemical compounds from Nardostachys jatamansi, particularly sesquiterpenoids, alkaloids, and fatty acid esters. These compounds, valued in traditional and modern medicine, exhibit diverse pharmacological effects. Key sesquiterpenoids—jatamanshic acid, patchouli alcohol, and valeranone—show neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities by modulating various biological pathways. They hold promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases, stress disorders, and skin conditions. Some also exhibit strong anti-biofilm and antimicrobial effects, suggesting potential against drug-resistant infections.

Alkaloids like actinidine and fatty acid esters such as n-hexacosanyl arachidate demonstrated antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds are also associated with cardiovascular protection, immune modulation, and stress reduction.  Furthermore, oroselol, another compound isolated from N. jatamansi, exhibits notable anticancer activity. This review analyzes literature from Google Scholar, EMBASE, PubMed, and PubMed Central to highlight how Jatamansi’s ability to modulate key molecular and cellular pathways underpins its broad biological actions, advancing pharmacokinetic understanding, reinforcing its pharmaceutical potential, and shaping future development of plant-based therapeutics.