Traditional, nutraceutical and pharmacological approaches of Tamarindus indica (Imli)

Plants have provided a source of inspiration of novel drug compounds, as plant derived medicines have made large contributions to human health and well-being. An estimate of 75-90% of rural population of the world still relies on herbs for their healthcare. Ayurveda, supposed to be the oldest medical system in the world, provides potential leads to find active and therapeutically useful compounds from plants. Epidemiological studies have consistently demonstrated that consumption of plant- derived foods rich in bioactive phytochemicals have a protective effect against different aliments related to human health. Tamarindus indica is having numerous reported activities like antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antivenom, antimicrobial, antihelmintic and molluscicidal properties. In spite of these medicinal values this plant is also consumed by rural people as vegetable. It also use as flavoring agent to impart flavor to various dishes and beverage. The present comprehensive review is therefore an effort to give detailed information about botanical description, phytochemical, traditional, nutraceutical and pharmacological approaches of Tamarindus indica.