PISTIA STRATIOTES L. (ARACEAE): PHYTOCHEMISTRY, USE IN MEDICINES, PHYTOREMEDIATION, BIOGAS AND MANAGEMENT OPTIONS

Abstract

Pistia stratiotes L. commonly known as water lettuce belongs to Araceae. It has been used in various medicines for the treatment of eczema, leprosy, ulcers, piles, stomach disorder, throat and mouth inflammation, a few to mention. This review article is a compilation of the updated information regarding phytochemical, pharmacological, medicinal, bioremediation potential, allelopathy, utilization and management of water lettuce. In Pakistan it was first reported from Razmak, South Waziristan in 1972, but now it is idespread throughout the country. Information regarding the uses and effects of different extract (ethanolic and methanolic) of this plant is also documented. Pistia stratiotes possess different useful activities like, diuretic, antidiabetic, antidermatophytic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties against harmful diseases. It has great potential for absorption of heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cr, and Cd) without developing any toxicity or reduction in growth due to metal accumulation and has shown a wide range of tolerance to all the selected metals and therefore can be used for water purification and to combat water pollution in waste water bodies such as drainage ditches and channels carrying industrial effluents. This article provide bases and encourages further study on any of the above mentioned aspects of P. stratiotes for creation as well as confirmation of the information and also to reveal therapeutic effects, bioremediation and bioaccumulation potential with possible isolation of active bio-moieties and their mechanism of action.