Anisomeles indica, traditional medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is utilized in ethnomedicine for the treatment of rheumatism, colds and fevers, as well as skin infections. Currently, the research about A. indica is relatively limited. In this review, a systematic summary of domestic and international literature has been done, providing a comprehensive review of its phytomorphological characteristics, herbalogical textual research, botanical identification, pharmacological activities, and clinical applications. Herbalogical studies confirm that the original plant should be designated as Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze. It exhibits morphological similarities to Pogostemon cablin and Siegesbeckia orientalis, and its nomenclature is easily confused with “Fangfeng (Saposhnikovia divaricata)”. The use of local folk medicinal varieties requires standardization. The whole herb of A. indica is employed medicinally, possessing the properties of dispelling wind, releasing the exterior, regulating “qi” and alleviating pain. It demonstrates significant pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticancer, and antibacterial activities. Clinically, both the single herb and compound preparations are used to treat series diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, common cold, and eczema. Furthermore, this review discusses the potential prospects for the development of A. indica, aiming to provide a reference for further research and its clinical application.

Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze  /  herbalogical study  /  identification  /  anisomelesoside A  /  ovatodiolide