A Review on Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Citrus medica Linn

Citrus medica Linn., known as bijapura in Ayurvedic literature, is widely used in traditional system of medicine. Many pharmacological studies have been conducted to investigate the properties of Citrus medica L. in an attempt to authenticate its use as a multi-purpose medicinal agent. The objective of this paper is to review the literature regarding Citrus medica Linn., a commonly used herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Specifically, the literature was reviewed for articles pertaining to chemical properties and therapeutic benefits. This review is in a narrative format and consists of all publications relevant to Citrus medica Linn. that were identified by the authors through a google scholar search and books from library of Dravyaguna department of IPGT &RA, regarding Indian medicinal plants. Result shows that Citrus medica Linn. possesses analgesic, hypoglycaemic, anticholinesterase, anticancer, antidiabetic, hypocholesterolemic, hypolipidemic, insulin Secretagogue, anthelmintic, antimicrobial antiulcer and estrogenic properties. The mechanisms of action for these properties are not fully understood. Preliminary studies have found various constituents of Citrus medica exhibiting a variety of therapeutic effects. These results are very encouraging and indicate this herb should be studied more extensively to confirm these results and reveal other potential therapeutic effects. Clinical trials using Citrus medica for a variety of conditions should also be conducted.