none 10.31254/phyto.2025.14404 BioMed Research Publishers BioMed Research Publishers 16195 184331100 316921 20251025020154379 10.31254 2025-10-25T02:01:59Z 2025-10-25T02:01:57Z 0 The Journal of Phytopharmacology J Phytopharmacol 2320480X 10.31254/phyto https://phytopharmajournal.com/ 09 30 2025 14 4 Nidhi Thakur https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1232-3216 Richa Puri https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4057-0759 Diplocyclos palmatus (L.) C. Jeffrey is a medicinal plant of significant ethnopharmacological relevance, especially in rural healthcare systems of India, where it is traditionally recognized as the botanical source of the Ayurvedic fertility drug “Shivlingi.” In addition to its use in treating infertility, the plant is also employed in folk medicine for managing inflammation, obesity, snakebite, malaria, and various skin disorders. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the taxonomy, vernacular nomenclature, distribution, morphology, anatomy, phytochemistry, and therapeutic potential of D. palmatus, supported by both field-based observations and literature analysis. A particular focus is given to the recurring taxonomic confusion in the literature, where multiple and sometimes erroneous scientific names have been used, leading to misidentification and challenges in consistent communication among researchers. Field surveys confirm the perennial nature of the plant, which contradicts some earlier classifications. Various bioactive compounds and pharmacological properties have been reported, substantiating several of its traditional uses. However, while preliminary studies support many ethnomedicinal claims, further targeted research, particularly into its application for fertility enhancement, is needed to validate its efficacy through experimental and clinical investigations. 09 30 2025 247 257 1 10.31254/biomed-crossmark-policy www.biomedresearch.org false 10.31254/phyto.2025.14404 https://phytopharmajournal.com/articles/abstracts/832/year=2025&vol=14&issue=4