An overview of Clinacanthus nutans (burm. f.) lindau as a medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological values

Clinacanthus nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau or Sabah snake grass is well-known for its traditional uses in cancer treatment and antidiabetic properties in Asian countries. The plant has demonstrated various pharmacological activities as evidenced by in vitro and in vivo biological investigations, which include antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, neuroprotective, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activities. Several classes of phytochemicals are being isolated and identified from different parts of the plant, such as flavonoids, glycosides, cerebrosides, lignans and phytosterols. This chapter aims to summarize and highlight the therapeutic potentials of C. nutans to substantiate its claims in ethnomedicinal uses.