Abstract

Grewia asiatica L. commonly known as phalsa, is an underutilized subtropical fruit crop widely cultivated in South Asia and increasingly recognized for its nutritional and pharmacological potential. Traditionally consumed fresh and processed into beverages, syrups and preserves, the fruit has long been used in indigenous medicine for managing gastrointestinal disorders, fever, inflammation and metabolic disturbances. Recent phytochemical and pharmacological investigations have revealed that G. asiatica is a great source of many biologically active compounds including anthocyanins, flavonoid contents, phenolic compounds, tannins, triterpenoids and phytosterols. The fruit pulp is characterized by appreciable levels of dietary fiber, potassium, calcium and polyphenolic antioxidants, while seeds and leaves contain diverse secondary metabolites with demonstrated biological activity. Many studies including in vitro and in vivo indicate significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and radioprotective activities, largely attributed to its high total phenolic contents and free radical scavenging capacity. Mechanistic insights suggest involvement of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) modulation, lipid peroxidation inhibition and possible regulation of apoptotic pathways. Despite promising preclinical evidence, clinical validation, standardized extract characterization, and bioavailability studies remain limited. This review critically evaluates the current literature on the nutritional profile, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of G. asiatica, highlights mechanistic perspectives, discusses safety considerations and identifies research gaps necessary for its development as a functional food or nutraceutical. The synthesis presented herein aims to provide a scientific basis for future translational and clinical investigations.

Keywords:Grewia asiatica; Phalsa; Malvaceae; Phytochemicals; Antioxidant activity; Functional Foods; Nutraceuticals; Pharmacological potential