Carissa carandas (Karonda): Pharmacognostic Profile, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities

AbstractCarissa carandas L. (family Apocynaceae), commonly known as Karonda, is a traditional medicinal plant widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, especially India. It has long been used in Ayurveda and folk medicine for treating anemia, diabetes, inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, and infectious diseases. The plant contains diverse phytochemicals such as flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids, and vitamins, which contribute to its pharmacological potential. Recent studies have highlighted antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective activities of the plant. This review summarizes pharmacognostic features, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties of Carissa carandas, emphasizing its therapeutic importance and future research prospects.