Therapeutic Potential of Bombax ceiba Linn. - A Review

Shalmali, botanically identified as Bombax ceiba Linn., a robust long-lived tree found abundantly growing across country, has been in the focus of pharmacotherapeutic applications in Ayurveda since time immemorial. Almost every plant part like root, stem bark, leaves, flowers, Gum exudate have been described with different type of pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential in classical texts of Ayurveda to treat a number of diseases. According to Ayurveda, it has stimulant, astringent, hemostatic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, antidiarrheal, emetic, demulcent, anti-dysenteric, and antipyretic properties. Numerous pharmacological properties of the Shalmali have been shown in both in vitro and in vivo research, including analgesic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-acne, antimicrobial, hypotensive, hypolipidemic, and antihyperglycemic effects. Present review is an attempt to bring forth the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical potential of various plant parts of Shalmali.