THE MULTIFACETED ROLE OF MADHUCA LONGIFOLIA (MAHUA) IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: A REVIEW

Abstract

Members of the Sapotaceae family, Madhuca longifolia (commonly called Mahua), are significant in indigenous knowledge systems and traditional Indian medicine. Originating from Sri Lanka and the Indian subcontinent, this tree is suited to regions that are prone to drought and grows well in a variety of ecological settings, including arid deciduous forests. It is prized for both its economic and therapeutic qualities. Traditional medicine has made use of the bark, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and oil of the Mahua tree. Mahua is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anticancer, neuroprotective, and wound-healing properties. Flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, phenolic compounds, and fatty acids are among the many phytochemicals that are linked to these effects. While the seeds of mahua produce oil that has both industrial and edible uses, the flowers are also high in sugars and are used in traditional fermentation to make alcoholic beverages. M. longifolia is still underutilized in the contemporary food and pharmaceutical industries, despite its ethnomedicinal significance and encouraging bioactivities demonstrated in early research. Its taxonomy, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological characteristics are all summarized in this review. In order to fully realize its potential, it also emphasizes the necessity for additional research, including safety assessments, clinical trials, and biotechnological applications. Mahua might aid in the creation of novel medications, nutraceuticals, and functional foods with more extensive scientific verification. Its sustainable use and cultivation could also help preserve biodiversity and rural livelihoods.