Abstract

KUSUM- A MULTIPURPOSE PLANT FROM KATARNIAGHAT WILDLIFE SANCTURY OF BAHRAICH(UP) INDIA-A REVIEW

*T. P. Mall and S. C. Tripathi

Abstract

Kusum Schleichera oleosa (Lour.) Oken. (Sapindaceae) is called Koshamra in Ayurveda. Its bark is antioxidant, used in rheumatoid arthritis and headache. The oil, Kusum oil is used for treating ulcers, intestinal parasites etc. It has been reported to possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancerous activity and can be used for the production of biodiesel. The plant contains low tanin lavels therefore, it can be used as fodder for livestock. The plant contains important phyto chemicals such as terpenoids, betulin, betulinic acid etc. The available literature reveals that this valuable medicinal plant can be used as an alternative to synthetic compounds for use in preventing and treating several diseases. Considering the ethnobotanical, nutrimental, ethnomedicinal, ethnoveterinary and environmental importance of this plant, the present review is an attempt to sumarise the information available on this multipurpose plant.

Keywords: Kusum, Ceylone oak, ethnobotanical, nutrimental, ethnomedicinal, ethnoveterinary, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctury, Bahraich.