Plant materials have been used traditionally as medicine for treating ailments and retaining health. Tamarindus indica is one of the reported ancient herbal medicine plants. Tamarind is a species of the Leguminosae family (subfamily: Caesalpiniaceae). It is an evergreen tree, native to Africa and, at present, widely distributed in other tropical and subtropical parts of the world. In Ayurvedic literature, the pharmacological properties of tamarind are responsible for therapeutic efficiency. It is used as a flavoring agent in various dishes and beverages. Tamarind fruit is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids and shows a moderate antioxidant effect. Tamarind is a rich source of essential amino acids, phytochemicals, and vitamins. It is cheap, easily available, and can help in curing many diseases. The seeds of the plant have antidiabetic, antisnake venom, and hepatogenerative properties. Different parts of tamarind (fruit pulp, leaves, and stem bark) have antioxidant, analgesic, antiemetic, antibacterial, hepatoregenerative, and hypolipidemic activities. Apart from the other components of fruit, leaves, and seeds of tamarind are commercially and nutritionally valuable. The purpose of this review is to explore the phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, medicinal and pharmacologic activities of tamarind, and its use as a household preserve.

Keywords:Tamarindus indica; Antidiabetic activity; Pharmacological studies.