Review on Artocarpus nobilis Thw. (Moraceae): An Endemic Plant of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The genus Artocarpus consists of about 50 species of large evergreen trees with various medicinal and economical uses. Artocarpus nobilis (Family: Moraceae) is commonly referred to as Ceylon breadfruit and it is endemic to Sri Lanka. Synonyms of A. nobilis are Artocarpus imperialis André, Artocarpus pubescens Moon and Saccus nobilis (Thwaites) Kuntze. Extracts from leaves, bark, fruits and latex are rich in phytochemical compounds such as flavanones, flavonoids, triterpenoids, xanthones, stilbenes and chalcones. These bioactive compounds contribute to various pharmacological properties of Ceylon breadfruit (Artocarpus nobilis). It is used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine to treat asthma, diarrhea, worm infestations and wound healing. It also used in traditional ayurvedic formulations like Chandana guli wattoruwa. Several research that has been carried out on this plant include the evaluation of antibacterial activity, anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant, antifungal, biosorption and Glutathione-S transferase inhibitory activities. Apart from these it is a productive source of edible fruit and yield good timber. A combination of traditional and new technologies will be important in the future to develop therapeutic products from Artocarpus nobilis. In this present review, attempts on providing comprehensive information on research conducted on A. nobilis.