Amaranthus  spinosus Linn.  (Family  Amaranthaceae),  a  very  common  Indian  plant  is  known  for  prickly amaranth, Spiny pigweed, in hindi Cauleyi, cholai, kanteli. its  medicinal properties and commonly known as cultivated throughout in India  and  warm  temperate  regions  of  Asia  from  Japan  to  Indonesia. It is erect spinous annual or perennial herb  varying  in  color  from  green  to  purple,  native  to  tropical  America.  In  Indian  traditional  system  of medicine  (Ayurveda)  the  plant  is  used  as  febrifuge,  antipyretic,  laxative  and  diuretic.  Besides  its culinary  value,  it  is  used  to  repute  for  treat  digestible,  bronchitis,  appetizer,  biliousness,  haematinic,  stomachic,  nausea,  flatulence,  anorexia,  blood  diseases,  burning sensation,  leucorrhoea,  leprosy  and  piles  The  studies  on  A.  spinosus have  been  carried  out  by various researchers and a wide spectrum of its pharmacological actions have been explored which may  include  antidiabetic,  antitumor,  analgesic,  antimicrobial,  anti-inflammatory,  spasmolytic, bronchodilator, hepato-protective, spermatogenic, antifertility, antimalarial, antioxidant properties, etc. The present review  is an effort to provide a comprehensive  review on  morphology, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of A. Spinosus.

Keywords: Amranthaceae; Prickly Amaranth; Spiny Pigweed.