Abstract

A PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW ON ELEPHANT APPLE

Y. Bhagyasri*, D. Sairam Goud, Ch. Malathi Suvarna and N. Siva Subramanian

ABSTRACT

An attempt has been made through this study to explore the rich and vest wealth of ethno medicinal and traditional knowledge in the North East of India, especially in the state of Assam. It is a tropical fruit native to South Asia, Bangladesh. Dillenia indica Linn. Commonly known as elephant apple for its pharmacological activities although, it is widely used as food and for medicinal purposes. Elephant apple is rich in carbohydrates, tannins and flavonoids, which make it medicinally important. Chemical Constituents such as Betulinic acid (dillenetin), Sitosterol and Stigmaterol are present in this. Results indicate Dillenia indica may provide a rich source of Triterpenoids and Flavonoids. This fruit cannot be consumed directly but it is more popular to general people in the form of pickles and jams. The properties of Bark and leaves are Astringent. Parts utilized are Fruits, Bark and leaves. It is capable of CNS Depresssant, Anti-Leukemic, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-Diabetic, Antihyperlipidemic, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic and Anxiolytic activities. The fruits of this plant have been reported for potential Anti-leukemic activity. Elephant apple have shown antioxidant level closer to apple. Thus Elephant apple could be a potential pharmacological subject as a drug in the treatment of several disorders.

Keywords: Dillenia indica Linn, plant parts, pharmacological activity.