Bhallatak (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.)—A Review

Abstract

Bhallatak (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.) has been used for medicinal and non-medicinal purposes since ancient times. The toxicity of bhallatak precludes its mega scale production particularly as a medicine at the industrial level. However, traditional healers and physicians of Indian Systems of Medicine continue to use bhallatak in various forms in their clinical practice. Several experimental investigations have been undertaken in diverse in vitro and in vivo models. The major focus of these investigations reported in the current literature, remains on anticancer and antiarthritic activity .The purpose of this review is to get a better insight in the activity of S. anacardium Linn. and comprehend its narrow therapeutic margin. It is important to understand the significance of Ayurveda inspired investigation of this traditionally acclaimed medicinal plant.