Phytochemical diversity of Malus baccata: A mini review

Malus baccata, commonly known as crab apple, is mostly found in the Kullu, Kinnaur, and Lahaul & Spiti districts of India. The fruit is known locally by the names palanu, sheed palek, and palek. The fruit belongs to the family Rosaceae, and its color is yellowish-green when mature. The fruit ripens in September. The taste of the Fruits ranges from subacid to sweet and has some astringency, and they are usually small in size. They are commonly used as a rootstock for apples. They are cheap, highly nutritious, and possess great therapeutic and medicinal value. The fruit is eaten to prevent diarrhea, constipation, and dysentery in infants. The consumption of apples also diminishes the risk of some cancers, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Biochemical studies have observed that fruits contain significant amounts of amino and organic acids, fatty acids, sugars, phenolic compounds, and soluble solids. This review aims to present an overview of the Phytochemical composition of Malus baccata species.