Origin, distribution, ethnobotany and pharmacology of jatropha curcas

Abstract

Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) is a multipurpose perennial shrub/small tree, native to Mexico and Subtropical America, now grows naturally in most tropical areas of the world. It is an underutilized plant of multiple values. Various parts of the J. curcas are globally used for healthcare management of plants, human being and domesticated animals. Besides ethnomedicinal usages, this species have much other ethnobotanical, economic and ecological importance. Bresent review deals with origin and distribution, taxonomie description, ethnobotany, pharmacological activities, phytochemical properties and future prospective of this species.