Diachronic Perspective of Punnaga (Calophyllum inophyllum Linn.) with Emphasis on its Distinct Identity: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Punnaga (Calophyllum inophyllum Linn.) known as Alexandrian Laurel is a significant medicinal plant in traditional system of medicine (Ayurveda). It is utilized in various therapeutic applications such as Skin disorders, Treatment of poisoning and Wound healing etc. It has been observed that deficient taxonomical clarity, gaps in knowledge, regional diversity, Punnaga’s identity remains debated in Ayurveda, resulting substitution and adulteration of drug. The review aims to critically analyze references of Punnaga from Ayurvedic classical text to contemporary scientific studies, focusing on its therapeutic claims and the controversies surrounding its botanical identity. The study involved a comprehensive review of Ayurvedic texts, commentaries and modern pharmacological literature. Keywords such as Tung, Nagkeshar, Punnagkeshar etc. used to trace its individuality and explore sources of controversy. The review revealed ambiguity in the identity of punnaga, as classical sources and regional traditions associate it with different species. Such uncertainty leads to adulteration and substitution, complicating its medicinal use. Due to ambiguity in its identification, Punnaga’s therapeutic role remains unclear. Bridging traditional texts with modern research is essential to establish its medicinal significance.