MEDICINAL PROPERTIES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGY OF ACACIA MODESTA (Wall.)

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants is as ancient as human civilization. Acacia modesta is an important medicinal plant belonging to the family Fabaceae (sub family Mimosaceae). This review aims to provide adequate and latest summary of the traditional usage, phytochemistry, pharmacological and ethnobotanical profile of A. modesta. The important phyto-constituents of A. modesta comprising flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, fatty acids and polysaccharides (gums) are also highlighted. Pharmacological data on A. modesta shows significant haemagglutination, phytotoxic, insecticidal, anti-diabetic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet aggregatory, antibacterial and acetyl cholinesterase inhibitory characteristics. Furthermore, A. modesta is also widely used as fodder, fuel wood, timber, household and furniture materials. Ecological importance of the plant is also worth mentioning for its scented and colorful flowers and it serves as one of the desired plant for honey bee raring and honey production. A. modesta is an important, eco-friendly and renewable source of pharmaceuticals with a well-known therapeutic directory. Many researchers have examined its therapeutic potential and common usage through the course of this review.