A Critical Review on the medicinal tree Devdaru (Cedrus deodara (roxb) Loud.)

Abstract

Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) Loud., commonly known as Devdaru, is a sacred and medicinal tree native to the Himalayan region, widely revered in Hinduism. Traditionally, various parts of this tree, including its bark, heartwood, fruit, and seeds, have been used in Ayurveda to treat a range of ailments such as arthritis, respiratory disorders, skin diseases, and digestive issues. This review provides a critical evaluation of the pharmacological properties, therapeutic applications, and chemical constituents of Devdaru. The tree's medicinal properties are attributed to its rich content of terpenoids, flavonoids, and essential oils, which exhibit anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities. The ethnopharmacological use of Devdaru spans across multiple regions, with indigenous communities employing it for over forty different diseases. Despite its extensive use, the mechanistic understanding of its effects remains limited, warranting further research in clinical and animal-based models. This paper underscores the therapeutic potential of Cedrus deodara, emphasizing the need for more focused studies to validate its efficacy and elucidate its biochemical mechanisms.