Comprehensive review on the nutritional and medicinal potential of Musa acuminata Colla bracts

Exploring the traditional and contemporary medicinal applications of Musa acuminata ‎colla, referred to as wild banana was carried out in this review article. Historically, ‎various parts of this plant have been used in ethnomedicine for treating a multitude of ‎ailments. According to the World Health Organization, traditional medicine remains a primary ‎source of healthcare for significant portion of the population in developing nations, ‎highlighting an increasing global demand for medicinal plants. Musa acuminata, an indigenous ‎one to Southeast Asia, is extensively employed in traditional medicine across diverse regions ‎including Asia, Oceania, India, and Africa. Modern research had validated several of these ‎traditional uses, showcasing the availability of pharmacological properties, such as ‎antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. The therapeutic potential of plant parts ‎such as fruits, leaves, stems, and flowers are primarily attributed to the presence of bioactive ‎phenolic compounds. Numerous epidemiological studies have discovered a link between ‎higher consumption of nutritious, rich plant-based foods to lower the risk of various diseases, ‎including cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The most effective and long-lasting methods ‎for preventing vitamin A shortage are those that involves diet management. Understanding various ‎characteristics of the fruits, such as their botanical, agronomic, nutritional, and processing ‎qualities, are also essential, to arrive about the nutritional and medicinal potential. ‎This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the nutritional value, biological activities ‎, and potential health benefits of Musa acuminata, offering a scientific foundation for future ‎research, and development of functional foods and phytomedicines derived from this plant‎.