LITCHI CHINENSIS SONN. - THE QUEEN OF FRUITS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF ITS ORIGIN, DISTRIBUTION, NUTRITIONAL VALUE, PHYTOCHEMISTRY, PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES AND ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE

Litchi chinensisSonn., known as litchi, is esteemed as the Queen of Fruits for its distinctive flavor, exquisite taste, and appealing look. This subtropical evergreen tree belongs to theSapindaceaefamily and yields tiny, succulent fruits abundant in bioactive chemicals, minerals, and vitamins. The pulp of the fruit contains polysaccharides, polyphenols, and antioxidants, which are essential for combating oxidative stress and related health concerns. Litchi, predominantly cultivated in China, has gained significant traction in India, especially in the eastern areas, with Bihar as the foremost producer. Litchi can only be cultivated in select states because to its specific soil and climatic prerequisites. Notwithstanding its perishable character, the increasing demand for litchi has resulted in the creation of value-added goods, augmenting its economic importance. Beyond its economic worth, litchi possesses notable pharmacological properties, offering potential benefits in the prevention and control of diverse health issues such as inflammation, diabetes, and cancer. This review offers an extensive examination of litchis origin, distribution, taxonomic categorization, growing methods, nutritional value, functional attributes, value-added products, diverse cultivars, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological qualities, and economic significance. Despite promising promises, obstacles persist in growing techniques, particularly with vulnerability to climatic conditions and soil requirements. Moreover, it underscores the economic importance of litchi cultivation in India, especially in Bihar, and emphasizes the need for further investigation into its phytochemistry and pharmacological advantages to optimize its application in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Consequently, next attempts should emphasize on its therapeutic benefits while advocating for sustainable agriculture methods adaptable to evolving climatic circumstances.