ARTOCARPUS HETEROPHYLLUS LAM: FROM TRADITIONAL REMEDY TO MODERN PHARMACOLOGY – A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

The history of every civilisation has recorded the use of medicinal plants to treat illnesses due to their safe and efficient active ingredients. Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam (Moraceae family). Traditional Ayurvedic and Unani systems used this plant to treat asthma, skin diseases, diarrhoea, and diabetes. Many phytochemicals like flavonoids, tannins, and artocarpin, are responsible for the diverse pharmacological actions shown by the plant. Modern research validates its therapeutic potential through its anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and antioxidant activities. The plant also demonstrates anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and anti-platelet properties, alongside anti-bacterial, anti-malarial, and diuretic effects. Furthermore, studies highlight its wound healing, immuno-modulatory, anti-fungal, and anthelmintic potential, as well as its ability to inhibit melanin synthesis and provide sedative effects. This review compiles these findings, indicating the jackfruit as a valuable resource for developing therapeutic agents for many ailments.