Abstract

CEDRUS DEODARA ROXB. (DEVDARU): A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF ITS BOTANICAL IDENTITY, PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES, AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

Anjali Tewari*, Dr. Pallavi Varshney, Dr. Pooja Nautiyal

ABSTRACT

Cedrus deodara (Roxb.), commonly referred to as Devdaru (Cedrus deodara Roxb.), is a sacred Himalayan conifer deeply venerated in Hindu tradition and widely recognized for its medicinal value. In Ayurvedic practice, various parts of the tree including its bark, heartwood, fruit, and seeds have long been employed to manage conditions such as arthritis, respiratory ailments, dermatological disorders, and digestive disturbances. This review critically examines the phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, and therapeutic applications of Devdaru (Cedrus deodara Roxb.). Its medicinal efficacy is primarily attributed to a rich array of bioactive compounds, notably terpenoids, flavonoids, and essential oils, which demonstrate anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Ethnopharmacological records reveal its use across diverse regions, with traditional healers applying it in the treatment ofmore than forty distinct diseases. However, despite its widespread application, the underlying biochemical mechanisms remain insufficiently understood, highlighting the need for rigorous investigation through clinical trials and experimental models. This paper advocates for deeper scientific inquiry into Cedrus deodara, emphasizing its therapeutic promise and the importance of validating its traditional uses through modern research.

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