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Abstract
Siddha is one of the oldest medical systems in India, regarded as the foundational medicine of the ancient Tamils and Dravidians in South India. This system not only holds the distinction of being the most ancient but also boasts numerous specialties that surpass those found in Ayurvedic medicine. Sphaeranthus indicus Linn, belonging to the Asteraceae family, is commonly referred to by various names including Munditika, Mundi, Shravana, Bhikshu, Tapodhana, Mahashravani, Shravanahva, and Shravanashirshaka. This plant thrives in moist environments, particularly in plains, and is often found as a weed in rice paddies. In traditional Indian medicine, various parts of the plant such as the leaves, stems, bark, roots, flowers, and seeds are utilized for the treatment of numerous ailments. The plant is characterized by its bitter taste and is known for its stomachic, restorative, alterative, pectoral, demulcent, and soothing properties when applied externally. Research has identified a range of secondary metabolites present in the entire plant and its parts, including eudesmanolides, sesquiterpenoids, sesquiterpene lactones etc. In summary, our findings indicate that Sphaeranthus indicus effectively reduces oxidative stress through free radical scavenging offers protection against lipid peroxidation, and helps regulate hyperlipidemia by lowering serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, comparable to standard medications. Additionally, phytochemical analyses have indicated the presence of Alkaloids, flavonoids, and Saponins.