<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>A compilation of the constituents isolated from <jats:italic>Swertia</jats:italic> species covering the literature up to December 2003 is presented. The botanical classification and ethno‐pharmacology of <jats:italic>Swertia</jats:italic> plants, as well as the biological activities and pharmacological applications of both distinct phytochemicals and medicinally acitve plant materials (formulations, extracts, <jats:italic>etc.</jats:italic>) are discussed in detail.