Bauhinia variegate (Kanchnara), An ornamental Plant with significant value in Ayurvedic and Folk Medicinal system

Medicinal plants are important part of traditional medication system. These plants are also the primary source of modern drugs. One such important medicinal plant is Bauhinia variegate (orchid tree) commonly called as Kanchanara in Hindi and Mountain Ebony in English. It belongs to Caesalpiniaceae family. It is one of the most common tree species found throughout the India. This tree is known for its beautiful scented and aesthetic white pinkish flowers. It is traditionally used in many folk cultures around the country for various kind of disorders. It is commonly used plant species in Indian cuisine. Its flower buds are commonly used as vegetables in many regions of India. It holds a significant place in Ayurveda for its curative and healing properties in many diseases especially cervical lymphadenitis, hemorrhage, rectal prolapse, menorrhagia, leukoderma etc. It is used in many Ayurvedic polyherbal formulations as a main ingredient like Kanchanara Guggulu, Ushirasava, Vidangarishta etc. It has diverse nature of phytochemical constituents present in it which are responsible for extraordinary therapeutic properties like anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, haemagglutination, anti-oxidant, antigoitrogenic, nephroprotective. The aim of present review is to provide information related to phytochemistry, traditional uses in Ayurveda and folk medicinal system and therapeutic properties of Bauhinia variegate.