A REVIEW ON PADMAKA (PRUNUS CERASOIDES D. DON): DIFFERENT SPECIES AND THEIR MEDICINAL USES

Abstract

Padmak (Prunus cerasoides D. Don) usually called as the Himalayan cherry tree is a drug with a significant ethno-botanical and therapeutic importance. In India plant is restricted to submontane and montane Himalayan ranging from 500-2000 m. In Garhwal hill it is distributed abundantly in temperate zone of Pauri, Tehari, Chamoli and Uttarkashi district. The stem bark contains Flavonone, Sakuranetin, Prunatin, Isoflavonone and Padmkastin. It is used in the treatment of stone and gravels in the kidney, bleeding disorders, burning sensation and skin disease. It is a best anti-abortifacient. The stem in combination with other drugs is prescribed for snake bite and scorpion stings. The native of the Punjab believes the fruits to be useful as an ascaricide. In Indo-china the bark is used in dropsy. The flowers are considered diuretic and laxative. The seeds are used as antihelmintic. In China and Malaya peach kernel are given for cough, blood disease and rheumatism. Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides), is an Ayurvedic herb used for the treatment of skin diseases, increases the complexion. The leaf extract of Prunus cerasoides used in prostate and urinary disorder. This article is compilation of different aspects of Prunus ceresoides and other Prunus species such as their botanical classification, morphological features, chemical constituents, pharmacological properties and ethno-medicinal uses.