A review of Annona species in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Sri Lankan is a country with an agrarian based economy, distinct number of annona species can be grown in Sri Lanka, as the country has different agro ecological zone. Among different species Annona muricata, Annona squamosa, Annona reticulate are the commercially available ones with prominent cultivars. Many countries considered it as an underutilized crop while it also considered as one of minor fruit species in Sri Lankan condition. It contains phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, several pigments, essential oils, fatty acids and vitamins. Those chemicals demonstrate broad spectrum activities like anti-microbial, anti-fungal anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and the anti-tumour activity. Researchers should be focused on the medicinal value characterization and the genetic conservation of the available annona gene pool in the country. This review article deals about the morphological properties, physiological properties,phytochemicals,medicinal property and multiple uses of the different annona species in Sri Lanka. This review aimed to create effective awareness about different annona varieties in country, their medicinal, nutritional values and importance of conservation measures. Many of these species are significant for local food and nutrition security other than use as a traditional medicine.