A Review on Ethnobotanical and Pharmacological Aspects of Gossypium barbadense L. (Cotton)- A Multidimensional Plant

Abstract

As an ancient medicinal plant, Gossypium barbadense has been used for medicinal, textile and edible purposes since ancient times to benefit humans. This plant belongs to the Malvaceae family originated from Mexico and Peru, and is commonly called ‘Cotton’. Different parts of G. barbadense are used to treat colds, diarrhea, gout, and skin diseases, as well as ear, respiratory, reproductive and neurological problems in Africa, Brazil, and India. From roots and seeds, gossypol, 6-methoxygossypol, and 6,6′-dimethoxygossypol have been isolated, along with these phytochemicals some other compounds, such as triterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids, are known to be present in leaves. The extracts and essential oil of this plant displayed anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-ulcer activity. The seed oil of this plant is known among all unsaturated edible oils as 'Heart oil' due to its beneficial effects on the heart. The fiber is the longest with excellent quality, used by industries such as clothes and textiles like archival paper, tents, coffee filters, book binding and fishnets. The aim of this study is to validate the limited available data on this multidimensional plant, its phytoconstituents, and pharmacological aspects, and to stress the need of further research to identify new plant-based medicines and other products for full financial and environmental benefits.