Madhuca Longifolia (Sapotaceae): A Review of its Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile

Abstract

Herbal medicine  is still the  mainstay  of  about  75 – 80%  of  the  world’s population  in the  developing  countries  for  primary  health  care.  Madhuca longifolia (Mahua) Syn.  Madhuca indica (Sapotaceae) commonly known as Butter nut tree is an economic plant growing throughout the subtropical region of the Indo – Pak subcontinent. Extensive studies show the presence of secondary metabolites like sapogenins, triterpenoids, saponins, flavonoids and glycosides. Conventionally, it has  been  used  to treat  infections,  wounds, rheumatism, heart disease, diabetes and  many  other  disorders. Experimental studies have demonstrated that Mahua exhibits antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antiulcer, cardioprotective, anticarcinogenic, immunomodulant and hypoglycaemic properties. The outcome of these studies have emphasized the existing pharmacological profile of Mahua and provided a convincing support to its future clinical use in modern medicine.