Overview on Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce: A State Tree of Rajasthan and Telangana

Abstract

Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce fam: Leguminosae, Synonym Prosopis spicigera, known locally as Khejri, Janti & Sami, is a deep-rooted, nitrogen fixing and multipurpose tree endemic to the hot deserts of India, which is contributing to the ecological stability of the region and providing extensive support to human beings, livestock and the nutrient deficient soils. It is the state tree of Rajasthan and Telangana. It is also the national tree of the United Arab Emirates. Prosopis has been found to contain 5-hydroxytryptamine, apigenin, isorhamnetin-3-diglucoside, l-arabinose, quercetin, tannin and tryptamine. Patulitrin, a glucoside of patuletin has been isolated from its flowers. Seeds contain fixed oils (4.5%), fatty acid such as palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid and linoleic acid. It is used traditionally for treatment of various ailments such as helminthiasis, leprosy, dysentery, bronchitis, asthma, leucoderma, piles, wandering of the mind and tremors of the muscles. The phytochemical, pharmacological, traditional and therapeutic importance of the plant is discussed herein.