A review on ethnobotanical, phytochemical and pharmacological potentials of Cedrus deodara

Cedrus deodara is a bluish or greenish grey needled plant having pyramidal shape and number of branches with approximate width of about 20-30 feet and length of about 40-50 feet. This plant is most commonly used for ornamental purposes on walkways but best suited as yard quite away from avenues and strolls. Cedrus plant is known to have four well-known species having evergreen, coniferous, monoecious and oleoresin rich taller trees. The essential oil of Cedrus deodara constitutes (+)- allohimachalol, (+)-himachalol, α-dihydroturmerone, α-himalchenes, β-himalchenes, trans-atlantones, cis-atlantones and p-methyl acetophenone as a major chemical constituent. The essential oil of this plant is known to have number of applications in ayurvedic system of medicines owing to its anti-helmintic, carminative, diuretic, diaphoretic and astringent potentials. In addition to many pharmacological potential of Cedrus deodara, this plant also has some beneficial effects in neurological or psychiatric disorders including epilepsy and anxiety along with severe depressive behavior. Plant extracts from various parts are used to treat skin diseases, severe ulcers, dysentery, diarrhea, fever and urinary scatters. It is also found effective in strangury, wounds, skin infections, syphilis and leprosy.