2025, Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part B

Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon, also referred to as Bharangi in Ayurveda, is a Lamiaceae family medicinal plant that is prized for its neuroprotective qualities and variety of pharmacological characteristics. Rich in secondary metabolites, including phytosterols, phenolics, terpenoids, and flavonoids, C. serratum has strong immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Traditional texts in the Brihat Trayi extol its therapeutic use in respiratory and inflammatory disorders. At the same time, modern studies have demonstrated its efficacy in managing stress-induced neuropsychiatric conditions, partly through modulation of monoaminergic transmission and inhibition of monoamine oxidase-A. Ethanolic extracts of its leaves have shown antidepressant-like effects in acute restraint stress models without affecting locomotor activity, suggesting a specific neuromodulatory role. Moreover, green-synthesized silver nanoparticles derived from C. serratum possess potent antimycobacterial and biofilm-disrupting properties. The plant’s pharmacological actions are attributed to the synergistic activities of its bioactive compounds, which act through the reduction of oxidative stress, stabilization of mast cells, and inhibition of enzymes. This review consolidates the botanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological insights into C. serratum, emphasizing its potential as a natural neuroprotective and therapeutic agent, and advocating further in-depth studies for drug development purposes.