Nutritional and Therapeutic Applications of Cashew: A Review

This review examined the nutritional and therapeutic applications of Cashew, which is a desirable medicinal plant known to have high nutritional content and a variety of therapeutic applications. A bibliometric analysis based on Scopus and VOSviewer indicates the top published authors and countries contributing on Cashew from 2000 to 2023. Cashew kernels are nutritionally rich sources of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, plant-based proteins, dietary fiber, essential minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron and phosphorus and bioactive compounds such as phytosterols, tocopherols and phenolic antioxidants. These compounds help to enhance cardiovascular health, metabolism of energy, and immunity. Cashew and its by-products, including cashew nut shell liquid, leaves, bark, and cashew apple were reported to possess significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects. Phytochemicals such as anacardic acids, cardanols, flavonoids and tannins found in Cashew have been reported to regulate oxidative stress, prevent pathogenic microorganisms and aid in metabolic regulation. Cashew extract is used in the treatment of gastro intestinal ailments, skin infections, and respiratory diseases. New pharmacological research also demonstrates the prospects of compounds derived from cashew in the development of new therapeutic substances. Altogether, cashew is a valuable functional food that could be used in nutrition, preventive medicine, and drug development.