Publication

Abstract : Shikonin is a lipophilic red pigments and is found in the outer surface of the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizori of the Boraginaceae family. It is a potent pharmaceutical substance with a well-known and extensive range of anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound healing activity. Significant research has been conducted on shikonin effectiveness on several tumours and on their mechanism of anticancer action. Shikonin and its derivatives have some antiproliferation and antimetastasis activities in various cancer types both in vitro and in vivo. Few decades onward, a wealth of new information arising from research efforts, on the anticancer and antimicrobial properties of shikonin has been accumulated. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide an updated data published on antimicrobial, anticancer activities, and other health properties of shikonin and their derivatives. Furthermore, the novel mechanisms for shikonin and its derivatives reported in the contemporary study make these compounds attractive candidates for the treatment of deadly diseases.