A literature review on ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological properties of Adonidia merrillii (Becc.) Becc.

This paper presents the ethnobotanical information, phytochemical content, and pharmacological activities of Adonidia merrillii. Ethnobotanical studies of A. merrillii in several countries such as the Philippines, Nigeria, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia revealed that this palm is known as an ornamental plant and is also utilized for medicinal purposes such as diarrhea, toothache, psychostimulant, and treat malnourished. Furthermore, A. merrillii holds cultural significance, often being incorporated into ceremonial practices. Previous studies reported various phytoconstituents detected in fruit pericarp, leaf, kernel seed oil, and flower. The phytoconstituents are flavonoids, saponins, tannins, coumarins, phenolics, and others. Fruit pericarp and seed extract have potential against various cancer cells. The fruit pericarp methanol extract is adequate against pathogenic bacteria due to its fatty acid content in different mechanisms. Flavonoids in seed extract are used as antidiarrheal agents, and the flavonoid effectivity increases when they are combined with lactic acid probiotic bacteria. Antioxidant activity was reported obtained from the fruit and pericarp extracts. Based on ethnobotanical studies and scientific research, A. merrillii has great potential and can be developed as a medicine in further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]