Indian hidden tuber “Ram Kand Mool” (Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich): Cultivation, phytochemistry and potential applications—A comprehensive review

Abstract

Ram Kand Mool (Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich) is a little tree or shrub. It grows easily from seed or cuttings and requires minimal care. The leaves and roots of Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich have most commonly been used for ages. This shrub has a mythological importance in Indian beliefs. Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich has many ethnobotanical uses. Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich contains various phytochemicals, including terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids. These phytochemicals have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. Traditional medical practices use it to treat inflammation, pain, infections, skin diseases, and gastrointestinal concerns. Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich may be used in pharmaceutical, nutritional, and personal care products. It is useful in the kitchen, medical cabinet, and cosmetics sector. The information compiled indicates that Ram Kand Mool has enormous potential for utilization as a functional food and various other value-added products. Pre-treatments are needed to remove the anti-nutritional factors present in it. This article describes the nutritional and medicinal benefits of Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich in detail. The information about the medicinal usage of Ram Kand Mool in traditional medical practices and nutritional benefits have been comprehensively compiled in this article.