visnaga

Visnaga, scientifically known as Ammi visnaga, is a flowering plant in the Apiaceae family native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa. It grows as an annual or short-lived perennial, with finely divided leaves and umbels of small white flowers. The plant is cultivated in some areas for its medicinal fruit, which has a long history in traditional use.

Phytochemistry and pharmacology: The dried fruits contain furanocoumarins, notably khellin and visnagin, among other constituents. These compounds contribute to the plant’s pharmacological activity, including photosensitizing properties and vasodilatory effects noted in some studies.

Traditional and medical uses: In traditional herbal medicine, visnaga fruits have been used as a diuretic and to aid the passage of kidney stones, and to relieve bronchial symptoms. In modern dermatology, khellin- and psoralen-containing extracts derived from visnaga have been explored for photochemotherapy (PUVA therapy) to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo, though such uses require medical supervision and are less common today.

Safety and regulation: Psoralen-containing preparations can cause photosensitivity, leading to sunburn or skin reactions if exposure to ultraviolet light occurs after use. Potential risks and drug interactions necessitate professional guidance, and the plant is not recommended for unsupervised self-medication.

See also: Ammi majus, psoralen, PUVA therapy.

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