Buchanania lanzan Spreng: An underutilised and valuable tropical fruit tree native to Indian forests

Abstract

Buchanania lanzan Spreng known as the Almondette tree is a tropical fruit nut tree which is underutilised owing to unawareness regarding production and marketing. Its valuable kernels form a significant source of livelihood security and economy of tribal inhabitants of the Indian forests. The current continuous destructive harvesting practices of the tree for fruit collection is hampering the existence of the natural population in forests. The pace with which the tree is being over-exploited is alarming, but is least concerned. This review emphasizes on all aspects of B. lanzan involving its botany, geographical distribution, propagation, phytoconstituents, pharmacology, in vitro conservation and genetic diversity studies that may support future conservation strategy. The challenges in the management and propagation of this tree from an Indian perspective are discussed. The information conveyed in the present review highlights the various aspects of B. lanzan for exploring its livelihood effects and commercialization.