A comprehensive review on medicinal importance of Bombax ceiba

Medicinal properties of plants have been recognized and utilized by humans since prehistoric times. Today, there is a growing trend towards using plant-based remedies, health products, medications, dietary supplements, and beauty aids due to their natural origins and holistic benefits. Bombax ceiba, a member of the Bombacaceae family, is a notable example. Also known as shalmali or red silk cotton tree, this plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and is well known in various traditional medical systems, including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani.

Bombax ceiba is highly valued for its wide range of medicinal uses, with different parts of the plant -such as the roots, gum, leaves, stem bark, prickles, fruit, flowers, and seeds-being used to treat a variety of ailments. Traditional healers, tribal communities, and forest monks have long utilized these parts to address health issues like dysentery, acne, diarrhoea, wounds, skin blemishes, pigmentation problems, colds, coughs, and more. The plant is also known to have emetic properties, which means it can induce vomiting when needed. 

Modern scientific studies have confirmed many of the traditional uses of Bombax ceiba, showcasing its wide-ranging pharmacological benefits. Research indicates that the plant exhibits anti-inflammatory, ant diabetic, antibacterial, anti-obesity, antihypertensive, anti-angiogenesis (preventing the formation of new blood vessels), and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects. These properties highlight Bombax ceiba as a potent natural remedy, capable of supporting health and treating a variety of conditions, making it a valuable resource in both traditional and contemporary herbal medicine.