Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Manilkara hexandra, commonly referred to as Khirni or Rayan, is a multifunctional medicinal plant belonging to the Sapotaceae family, prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas of South Asia. It has been traditionally utilized in indigenous medicine for the treatment of diabetes, inflammation, fever, liver ailments, digestive problems, and infections. Various parts of the plant, including leaves, bark, seeds, and fruits, are rich in phytochemicals such as flavonoids, triterpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, saponins, and steroids. These compounds contribute to a wide range of pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Recent research has also indicated its potential antiviral activity against SARS- CoV-2. However, to fully establish its therapeutic efficacy, there is a need for standardized extraction techniques, toxicological assessments, and clinical trials. This review aims to consolidate existing knowledge to facilitate the advancement of M. hexandra as a viable phytopharmaceutical agent.