A Review on Herbs with Uterotonic Property

Abstract

The practice of herbalism has become popularized throughout the world. During past decade public interest in natural therapies is increasing both in developing as well as developed countries. Approximately 25 percent of all prescription drugs are derived from trees, shrubs or herbs. Plant-extract-based medicine is quite appreciated and well accepted by rural and even urban population. Uterotonics plants are those plants which have the ability to contract uterus and since ancient times these uterotonic plants have been used to assist labour, induce labour and for abortifacient purposes. Current available uterotonics include oxytocin, ergot derivatives and prostaglandins. Alternative to these synthetic agents, many herbal plants with uterotonic properties are known from across the world. For this purpose computerised databases were searched to get the various plant species which have been studied for their uterotonic activity. The aim of this review is to give snapshot of plants with uterotonic properties proved by experimental studies. More studies needed to prove them as uterotonic herbs. Before the assessment of clinical efficacy, studies must first provide evidence for the mechanism of action of herbs as uterotonics as well as their safety through phytochemical and pharmacokinetic assays.