Paper Contents
Abstract
Argemone mexicana L., a plant of profound contradictions, is known in Ayurvedic medicine as Svarnakshiri for its therapeutic golden latex, yet it is also notorious as a toxic adulterant responsible for widespread public health crises. This comprehensive review synthesizes the multifaceted identity of this species, bridging the gap between its traditional ethnomedicinal applications and modern scientific understanding. Botanically, it is a hardy, invasive herb of the Papaveraceae family, originating in the Americas but now naturalized globally. In traditional systems like Ayurveda, its roots, seeds, and latex are utilized for a variety of ailments, including skin diseases, wounds, constipation, and fevers, based on its classical properties as a pacifier of Kapha and Pitta doshas. Phytochemical analysis reveals a rich profile of isoquinoline alkaloids, with sanguinarine, dihydrosanguinarine, berberine, and protopine being the most significant. Modern pharmacological studies have validated many of its traditional uses, demonstrating potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, wound healing, and hepatoprotective activities. However, this therapeutic potential is overshadowed by the severe toxicity of its seed oil. The presence of sanguinarine and dihydrosanguinarine makes the oil a dangerous adulterant of edible oils, causing the life-threatening condition known as epidemic dropsy. This review delves into the pathophysiology of this poisoning, characterized by widespread capillary damage, severe oxidative stress, and multi-organ failure. By juxtaposing its ethnopharmacological profile with its toxicological data, this report underscores the critical need for a nuanced, evidence-based approach to distinguish the plant's medicinal value from its inherent dangers, paving the way for safer utilization and effective public health strategies.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Dr. Bhuraji. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
