Pharmacognosy of Pinus roxburghii: A Review

Pinus roxburghii Sarg. (syn. Pinus longifolia Roxb.) (Pinaceae), found in the Himalayan region, furnishes an oleo-resin which is used as insecticides, disinfectants and liver disorders. P. roxburghii are reported to have wound healing, cytotoxic, antibacterial, antifungal and spasmolytic actions. The plant also shows beneficial effects in the treatment of cough, ulceration and genito-urinary disorders. Folklore reports suggest its use in inflammations, asthma, chronic bronchitis, piles, diseases of the liver and spleen, urinary discharges, toothache, tuberculosis, scabies and epilepsy. This review provides a bird’s eye view about geographical distribution, folklore uses, phytoconstituents and pharmacological properties of P. roxburghii.