Sida cordifolia (L.): A Comprehensive Review of its Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology

Department of Quality Assurance, Maliba Pharmacy College, Uka Tarsadia University, Guarat, India

*Corresponding author: Dr. Pratik Tailor, Department of Quality Assurance, Maliba Pharmacy College, Uka Tarsadia University, Guarat, India, Phone: 09925802146, E-mail: [email protected]

Received Date: January 13, 2026

Published Date: February 26, 2026

Citation: Tailor P. (2026). Sida cordifolia (L.): A Comprehensive Review of its Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology. Mathews J Pharma Sci. 10(1):60.

Copyrights: Tailor P. © (2026).

ABSTRACT

Sida cordifolia (L.), known commonly as Bala in Ayurvedic medicine, is a revered herb with a long history of use in traditional healthcare systems across India and other parts of the world. This comprehensive review encapsulates the existing scientific knowledge on its ethnobotanical applications, phytochemical composition, and validated pharmacological activities. Traditionally employed as a strengthening tonic (Rasayana), Bala is used to treat a wide array of ailments including respiratory conditions, inflammatory disorders, and neurological diseases. Phytochemical investigations have revealed a complex profile of bioactive compounds, primarily alkaloids such as vasicine, vasicinone, and β-phenethylamine, alongside flavonoids, sterols, and fatty acids. However, the presence of the sympathomimetic alkaloid ephedrine remains a subject of significant scientific controversy, with conflicting reports in the literature. Modern pharmacological studies have scientifically validated many of its traditional uses, demonstrating significant CNS depressant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, and hypotensive effects, often contradicting the stimulant properties implied by some commercial applications. This review highlights the immense therapeutic potential of Sida cordifolia while underscoring the critical need for further research to resolve chemical inconsistencies, address taxonomic ambiguities, and clinically validate its traditional applications for modern medical use.

Keywords: Sida cordifolia, Bala, Malvaceae, Ayurvedic Medicine, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, Medicinal Plant, Bioactive Compounds, Ethnopharmacology.