Abstract

Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq. (Dilleniaceae) commonly known as Elephant apple. The vernacular names include Chalta, Chulta, Karambel, Bhavya and Ramphal.It is found in Bangladesh, Nepal, China, Indonesia and Assam, West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar, Myanmar regions of India. Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq.has been prevalently used in Indian traditional and ayurvedic medicine for curing plethora of ailments such as digestive, respiratory and central nervous systems. The information was put together, with the help of literature surveyed. Traditionally different parts of Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq. have been used for the relief of indigestion, asthma, influenza, dysentery,jaundice,promeho,weakness and rheumatic pain. Moreover, the extractives showed significant cytotoxic, CNS depressant and free radical scavenging activity. Wood obtained from the bark of the plant has been used for preparing rafters, tool-handles, cupboard and house pots. It is interesting to know that bark of Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq.is used for production of charcoal. Microspheres of metformin hydrochloride and novel mucoadhesive buccal tablets of oxytocin were also prepared from Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq. In vitro propagation is practised whereas micropropagation is considered at the time, when large scale plant multiplication is required. Phytochemical studies revealed substantial presence of polyphenols, tannins, alkaloids and flavanoids which are responsible for the various pharmacological activities. Major chemical constituents present in the plant are betulin (pentacyclic triterpenoid) and betulinic acid that show wide spectrum of pharmacological activities which include anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-malarial etc. Furthermore, Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq. is found to possess analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti- microbial,anti-bacterial,anti-diabetic,anti-oxidant,anti-proliferation,anti-diarrhoeal, antiimplantation, cytotoxic, wound healing and hair waving activity. Keyword(s)- Dillenia indica f. elongata (Miq.) Miq. ; Phytochemical profile; Traditional uses; Pharmacological properties.

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