Glimpse of Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.): From Traditional Medicine to Modern Applications
Shiv kumar Shivandu
*
Division of Fruit and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI New Delhi- 110012, India.
Ishani Sharma
Department of Fruit Science, Collage of Horticulture, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP)- 173 230, India.
Nishchala Arya
Department of Fruit Science, CoHF, Neri, Hamirpur, Dr. YSP University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP)- 177001, India.
Gaurav Kumar
Department of Microbiology, Career Point University, Bhoranj, Hamirpur-176-041, India.
Jayesh Garg
Department of Agriculture, RIMT University, Gobindgarh, Punjab-147-301, India.
Saijal Khosla
Department of Basic Science and Humanities, Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana, Punjab-141-004, India.
Harush Kumar
Division of Fruit and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI New Delhi- 110012, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Litchi, known for its delicious taste, it is not just a culinary treat but provides a wide range of medicinal benefits. Mostly cultivated in warm climates across China, India. Its rich history intertwines with diverse cultural traditions. Beyond its tantalizing flavor, litchi unveils a diverse range of therapeutic properties. From ancient remedies for diabetes to modern insights into its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral process, litchi emerges as a versatile healer. This review explores the bioactive compounds in different plant parts of litchi. Key findings of this review reveal the neuroprotective role of the litchi saponins and its anti-cancerous potential by inhibition of tumor growth, ad it hepatoprotective effects against liver toxins. Moreover, its extracts demonstrate significant anti-diabetic, anti-obesity and lipid lowering effects. Suggesting their application in managing metabolic disorders. This paper provides a consolidated version of traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific research emphasizing litchi’s potential as a functional food and its increasing relevance in modern health care.
Keywords: Litchi, sweetness, culinary delight, medicinal benefits