Abhijit V. Shrirao*, Nitin I. Kochar, Anil V. Chandewar

ABSTRACT

About 75 – 80% of the world’s population in the developing countries is using herbal medicines for treatment of primary ailments. 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. The tree is considered a boon by the tribal’s who are forest dwellers and keenly conserve this tree. Extensive studies show the presence of 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, wound healing, antiepileptic, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory 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. So it is very necessary to create awareness among the people to conserve the wild forest. KEYWORDS: Herbal Medicines, Mahua, Sapotaceae, Pharmacological profile