A Review on Aristolochia Bracteolata for Management of Lichenification (Pandri Thol Kuttam)

Lichenification is a chronic dermatological condition characterized by epidermal hyperkeratosis, persistent pruritus, and skin thickening, commonly resulting from prolonged scratching and inflammation. Aristolochia bracteolata, a traditionally used medicinal plant in Siddha medicine, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties that may contribute to the management and reversal of lichenified skin. The plant contains bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids , which are known to exert anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing effects. This review aims to integrate Siddha medicinal concepts with contemporary scientific evidence to evaluate the therapeutic potential of A. bracteolata in lichenification . Although preliminary findings are promising, further experimental and clinical studies are required to establish its long-term safety and therapeutic efficacy.