Abstract

REVIEW ON PHYTOCHEMISTRY, PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES AND TRADITIONAL USES OF FICUS RELIGIOSA (PEEPAL)

*Akash S. Jumble, Sneha V. Wasade, Gauri A. Deshmukh, Ashwini Aswar and Dr. Harigopal S. Sawarkar

Abstract

Ficus religiosa L., known as the peepal tree, belongs to the Moraceae family and has been traditionally utilized for its healing properties, including antiulcer, antibacterial, antidiabetic effects, and for treating gonorrhea and various skin conditions. Traditional medicine often employs diverse plant extracts or bioactive constituents for therapeutic purposes. Ethnomedicinal studies are invaluable in the search for new, cost-effective medicinal plants. In India, herbs have long served as primary medicinal agents, with therapeutic benefits derived from the complex chemical substances present as secondary metabolites in different parts of the plant. F. religiosa, also known as the "Bo tree," is historically significant as it provided shelter to Buddha during his enlightenment. This review focuses on recent insights into its phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and traditional uses. Revered in Indian culture and known as the "sacred fig," "Bo tree," "Peepal," or "Ashwattha" in Sanskrit, this tree is widely distributed across India and is often worshipped by Hindus. Various parts of the F. religiosa tree including the bark, fruit, leaves, seeds, and latex serve as essential natural remedies for numerous ailments.

Keywords: ficus religiosa, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, traditional uses.