Indigofera tinctoria L.: A Comprehensive Review on Botany, Phytochemistry, Agronomy and Pharmacological Perspectives
T. T. Thanuja *
Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram-695522, Kerala, India.
N. S. Sonia
Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Padannakkad, Kerala Agricultural University, Kasaragod -671314, Kerala, India.
Deepa, S. Nair
Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram-695522, Kerala, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Indigofera tinctoria Linn. (true indigo) is a multipurpose leguminous plant valued for both its natural dye and wide spectrum of medicinal properties. The present review compiles and synthesizes available information on its taxonomy, distribution, traditional significance, phytochemical composition, agronomy, and pharmacological potential. The plant is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions and has long been used in Ayurvedic and traditional systems of medicine, particularly for liver disorders and epilepsy. Agronomic studies indicate that proper nutrient management and pre-sowing seed treatments can markedly enhance germination, biomass yield, and dye productivity. Phytochemical investigations reveal the presence of diverse bioactive constituents that collectively contribute to its therapeutic efficacy. Overall, I. tinctoria represents an economically and pharmacologically important species with substantial potential for sustainable dye production and therapeutic applications.
Keywords: Agronomic practices, medicinal properties, taxonomy, true indigo