ABSTRACT
This review concerns ashtavarga, a group of eight ayurvedic plants, that is used in order to revitalize, rejuvenated and to prolong the life span of humans. The review gives the list of these eight plants and also the most commonly used substitute and adulterants. An account on each of these plants along with their chemical constituents, pharmacognostic features (whatever is available) and therapeutic activities are provided. The method of administration is also given. The factors that threaten the species and the conservation strategies to be followed are provided. Finally the list of future research that needs to be undertaken on ashtavarga plants is also provided.
