Abstract

Thamarai (Nelumbo nucifera GAERTN) Nelumbo nucifera also known as Lotus, an aquatic belongs to the family of Nelumbonaceae. It is cultivated throughout the world as an important nutritious herb.  Thamarai (Nelumbo nucifera GAERTN) is an important herbal ingredient in all traditional systems of medicine and has been using for several decades because of its varied medicinal properties. In India systems of medicine it is considered as a high medicinal value drug. In Siddha medicine, it is widely used for pregnancy care (antenatal care and post natal care).  Different part of plant (leaves, seeds, flower, and rhizome) can be used in traditional siddha system of medicine.  Several recent researches revealed that it has hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, antianalgesic, , antifertility, antimicrobial, anti inflammatory properties etc.  Documentation of traditional medicinal uses and phyto-pharmacological activities of a thamarai kilangu is essential for the time. This review attempts to cover all the available literature on Nelumbo nucifera with respect to its traditional uses, chemical constituents, physicochemical properties, phytoconstituents with therapeutic benefits.