SHAMI (PROSOPIS CINERARIA) - THE WONDER TREE OF THE DESERT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF TRADITIONAL USES AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

Prosopis cineraria is a tree from the Leguminosae family and is commonly known as Khejri, Khijdo and Shami. The leaves and pods are widely used as animal feed. Shami is recognized as the national tree of Telangana, Rajasthan and Western Uttar Pradesh. In Rajasthan, it is called Khejri, while in Western Uttar Pradesh it is known as Chhonkara. Prosopis cineraria is often referred as the “wonder tree” or “lord of the desert” because it survives well in dry and harsh conditions. The green pods, locally called Sangari. It used as a popular vegetable in Rajasthan and are eaten both fresh and dried. The tree has been used for a long time in traditional and folk medicine. Different parts of the plant are used to treat health problems. The leaves, pods, flowers, stem, and seeds all contain useful natural compounds. Prosopis cineraria is also a good source of vitamins, especially for people living in desert regions. Several species of the Prosopis genus are known for their medicinal value. This plant mainly contains tannins (such as gallic acid), alkaloids (like spicigerine and prosophylline), flavonoids (prosogerins A–E), and quercetin, which are responsible for its health-promoting properties.