Potent Ethnomedicinal Plant Semecarpus Anacardium Linn - A Review

Semecarpus anacardium Linn., known as 'Bhallatak' or 'bhilawa', was a potent ethanomedicinal plant from the Anacardiaceae family, used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine. The plant's nut contained biologically active compounds like biflavonoids, phenolic compounds, bhilawanols, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids, contributing to its medicinal properties. It was traditionally used in various formulations such as Amritbhallatak Avaleha and Bhallatakasav. Research demonstrated its pharmacological activities, including anti-atherogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, anti-reproductive, CNS stimulant, anticarcinogenic, and hair growth-promoting effects.