Background: Chitraka, (Plumbago zeylanica) is a widely used medicinal plant in India, employed in various traditional systems such as Ayurveda. Despite its therapeutically valuable bioactive compounds, the plant is associated with marked toxicity and phytotoxicity in both experimental models and clinical usage. Objectives: To systematically review and synthesize the existing scientific evidence on the overall toxicity and phytotoxicity of Plumbago zeylanica, with a focus on human, animal, and plant models within the Indian context. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using subject specific, multi-disciplinary and electronic databases with official guidelines. Inclusion criteria were original studies, reviews, and case reports published in English up to 2024 dealing with acute, sub-acute, and chronic toxicity, as well as phytotoxicity of Plumbago zeylanica, particularly from Indian mainland. Extraction focused on toxicological endpoints, affected organs, dose-response relationships, and mechanisms.

Results: Studies consistently identify plumbagin, a naphthoquinone, as the principal toxic constituent, exhibiting potent cytotoxic and pro-oxidant activities. Animal studies demonstrate pronounced acute and sub-acute toxicity, with hepatic and renal impairment, haematological changes, and increased organ masses at higher doses. LD50 values show petroleum ether extracts as more toxic than acetone or hydroalcoholic extracts (LD50: 93.45 mg/kg vs. 928.4 mg/kg). Clinical reports detail gastrointestinal, cardiac, neurological, and dermatological toxic manifestations with high or improper dosage. Phytotoxicity is observed in soil and allelopathic studies, affecting germination and growth of other plants. Misuse as an abortifacient and to produce bruises (for malingering) has medicolegal significance in India.

Conclusion: Plumbago zeylanica poses significant risks due to its toxicity and phytotoxicity. Awareness and regulatory measures are vital to minimize adverse outcomes associated with its traditional and modern therapeutic use.