Review on Ethnobotany and Phytopharmacology on Mesua ferrea Linn

Abstract

This work was performed to study the ethnobotany and phytopharmacological properties of M. ferrea L. It is widely distributed in the tropical areas of the world, especially in the Asian countries and is traditionally used by the local peoples for curing diseases ranging from head ache to cancer. Mesua ferrea is cultivated as an ornamental plant and young leaves are reddish yellow in color while mature leaves are blue grey to dark green in appearance with fragrant white flowers. This study reveals that almost all part of the plant have high medicinal property against different ailments. M. ferrea Linn being used for its anticancer, antineoplastic, disinfectant, anti oxidant, hepato-protective, anti arthritic, diuretic, analgesic etc. properties. The phytochemical screening confirms the presence of phenyl coumarins, xanthones, triterpenoids, tannin and saponin as main constituents responsible for its biological activity. It is also used in the cosmetics. This can be used as remedial agents for various health issues. This review reveals the phyto-pharmacological role of this medicinal plant.