Nutritional and Medicinal Values of Chlorophytum borivilianum: Minireview of Current Status and Future Possibilities

Abstract

Background: The knowledge of herbs and its uses is not fully explored in India. Chlorophytum borivilianum (family: Liliaceae) is one of the highest valued medicinal plants found in the Indian forest. Traditionally, it is used after delivery by the females in different compositions in the form of “Laddoos”. Objective: This study reviewed the nutritional and medicinal applications of Chlorophytum borivilianum properties with the current status and future possibilities. Chlorophytum borivilianum is a well-known tonic and an aphrodisiac drug extensively used in Ayurvedic medicines. The main source is from the forest area, efforts are made for its cultivation to fulfill the growing demand. Methods: A detailed study was carried out by analyzing national and international scientific databases like Pub Med, SciFinder, Scopus and Web of Science, thesis, and recognized books. The researcher himself cultivated Chlorophytum borivilianum on his farm during the period from 2000 to 2008. Results: Chlorophytum borivilianum roots are used for the preparation of nutritional tonic used in general sexual weaknesses. It has a huge and consistent demand in the national and international markets. The pharmaceutical and therapeutic value of Chlorophytum borivilianum has a great significance due to the presence of a specific constituent, i.e., saponins of secondary metabolites. Recent studies of Chlorophytum borivilianum have identified a wide range of pharmacological applications, most importantly, aphrodisiac, immune-modulatory, and anticancer activities. Conclusion: Some of the barriers are observed, such as a lack of research and development on highyielding varieties, quality control, and products and process development. The difficulties in marketing, an unestablished local market for primary processed products, unskilled human power, and equipment, knowledge of the latest technologies and market information are the major constraints observed in the promotion of Chlorophytum borivilianum.