Abstract

GENUS CALLISTEMON : AN UPDATE REVIEW

Sumitra Singh*, Shiva

ABSTRACT

Callistemon is a genus of shrubs belonging to family Myrtaceae, found wildly only on the Australian continent but now all species are endemic to Australia. There are also large numbers of hybrids and horticultural varieties based on Australian species. Callistemon species had a role as traditional bush medicine. The genus is known in folk medicine for its anticough, antibronchitis, and insecticidal effects and its volatile oils has been used as antimicrobial and antifungal agents .Moreover antiphylococcal, nematicidal, larvicidal, pupicidal, antithrombotic activities and antioxidant activities of the genus Callistemon has also reported. In India Callistemon species introduced from Australia and cultivated in gardens for its beautiful flowers, uncommonly pretty foliage,gorgeous shade, and large amount of nectar throughout the country except in extremely dry and cool places. Globally, there has been an unparalleled growth in the plant-derived medicinally useful formulations, drugs and health-care products. This review article summarizes the most recent studies on medicinal uses of the various species of Callistemon.

Keywords: antiphylococcal, nematicidal, larvicidal, pupicidal