Recent progress in phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Madhuca sp. (Mahula) and its traditional uses

Madhuca (Mahula) has significant ethnobotanical importance, widely found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Several parts of the plant, including flowers, seeds, bark, and leaves, have nutritional, medicinal, and sociocultural importance. In recent years, these trees have gained increasing attention due to their various pharmacological potential. Madhuca has been used to treat skin disease, inflammation, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders, as various parts of these plants contain diverse phytochemicals. This review gives a complete account of current advances in phytochemistry and pharmacological research on Madhuca sp., emphasizing their botanical characteristics, ecological distribution, and importance in indigenous ethnopharmacological practices. Recent research on Madhuca has revealed a diverse range of bioactive substances, including saponins, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and fatty acids, which support the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and hepatoprotective properties of these plants. The review also highlights the toxicological profiles of Madhuca to ensure the commercialization of goods produced from Mahua. Furthermore, recent patent filings demonstrate the increased industry interest in utilizing the therapeutic and financial advantages of these underutilized forest resources.