Phytochemical and Biological Studies of Cucurbitaceae: A Mini- Review

Abstract

Cucubitaceae is the largest family of fruits and vegetables consisting of more than 800 species; with characteristic edible and medicinal value. This family serves as a reservoir for numerous phytochemicals, including tannins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoides, carbohydrates, resins, saponins, carotenoids, and phytosterols. These phytochemicals impart distinguished anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-viral, anti-ulcerative, hepatoprotective, cardio-porotective, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties. These traits attribute to its distinctive biological impetus; as discussed in this min-review.