Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION OF SEMECARPUS ANACARDIUM LINN. AS A POTENTIAL ETHNOMEDICINAL PLANT

Sunayana Vikhe, Pradnya A. Sukhadhane*, Sayee P. Dhavan and Nikita R. Kature

ABSTRACT

Semecarpus anacardium Linn., belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, is renowned in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Since the inception of human civilization, traditional herbal plants have been utilized to address a range of significant disorders. Conventional medical approaches encompass remedies derived from plants, animals, and minerals, along with practices such as massage, spiritual therapies, and a diverse array of techniques specific to various regions and cultures. Bhilwa, an age-old plant, is renowned as a partial healer for its capability to treat nearly half of the recognized ailments. It is accessible in various formulations within both Ayurveda and the Siddha system of medicine. The nuts of this plant encompass a range of biologically active compounds, including biflavonoids, phenolic compounds, bhilawanols, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids, exhibiting diverse medicinal properties. The extract from the fruit and nut demonstrates a spectrum of activities, such as antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-reproductive, CNS stimulant, hypoglycemic, anticarcinogenic, and promotion of hair growth. This review focuses on the distribution, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties of S. anacardium.

Keywords: Semecarpus anacardium, Pharmacology activity, Phytochemical composition, Anacardiaceae.