A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF BABCHI (PSORALEA CORYLIFOLIA)

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A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF BABCHI (PSORALEA CORYLIFOLIA)
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A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF BABCHI (PSORALEA CORYLIFOLIA)
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International Journal Of
Recent
Scientific
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ISSN: 0976-3031
Volume: 7(6) June -2016
Sadia Chishty, Monika
A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF BABCHI (PSORALEA CORYLIFOLIA)
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RECENT SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (IJRSR)

*Corresponding author: Sadia Chishty, Monika
Department of Home Science, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004
ISSN: 0976-3031
Review Article
A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF BABCHI (PSORALEA CORYLIFOLIA)
Sadia Chishty, Monika
Department of Home Science, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302004
ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT
Psoralea corylifolia is an important medicinal plant which is used in several traditional medicines to
cure various diseases. Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) is useful part of Indian Ayurveda, Tamil Siddha
and Chinese systems of medicine. The plant possesses antibacterial, anti-depressent, antitumor,
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and immunomodulatory activity. This paper is a
comprehensive overview of the literature summarized on chemical constituents and pharmacological
activities of P. corylifolia, which will be beneficial for further research and development.
INTRODUCTION
Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) is an important plant in
the Indian Ayurveda and Tamil Siddha systems of medicine,
and also in Chinese medicine (http://www.home-remedies-for-
you.com/askquestion/3682/what-are-the-benefits-and-side-
effects-of-babchi-oil.html).
Psoralea corylifolia Linn. (P. corylifolia) is a widely used
medicinal plant in Asia and India (Yadava and Verma, 2005;
Miura, Nishida and Iinuma, 1996). A number of chemical
constituents, including flavonoids and coumarins, have been
isolated from this plant. Some of these compounds exhibit
antioxidant (Guo et al., 2005), antiplatelet (Tsai, Hsin and
Chen, 1996), estrogenic (Lim et al., 2011),
immunomodulatory, and antitumor properties (Latha et al.,
2000; Qu et al., 2011), anti inflammatory activities (Haraguchi
et al., 2002; Karsura et al., 2001; Ferra´ndiz et al., 1996).
Various studies have reported antibacterial effects. (Yin et al.,
2004; Khatune et al., 2004). PCS (Psoralea corylifolia seed)
extract is used in a variety of diseases such as leucoderma
(Prasad et al., 2004) and for impotence (Yang, Chang and Park,
2008). The Chinese believe that P. corylifolia is an excellent
tonic remedy, for improving overall health and vitality.
http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/askquestion/3682/
what-are-the-benefits-and-side-effects-of-babchi-oil.html. The
P. corylifolia seeds (PCS), commonly known as “Boh-Gol-
Zhee” in Korea, have been used traditionally as a medicinal
remedy (Eunhui et al., 2013). They are also known as sabza,
subza, takmaria, tukmaria, selasih.
(https://lentilsandlunges.wordpress.com/2014/05/13/chia-or-
sabja-there-is-adifference/Chia or Sabja? There IS
a Difference!). P. corylifolia is also known as Babchi. The
active component in the seeds is an essential oil.
(http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/askquestion/3682/
what -are-the-benefits-and-side-effects-of-babchi-oil.html). P.
corylifolia has been widely used for the treatment of various
diseases such as leucoderma and other skin diseases,
cardiovascular diseases, nephritis, osteoporosis, and cancer
(Zhang et al., 2016).
Classification: The plant classification details are: (Mukherjee,
2002)
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Angiospermae
Class: Dicotyledoneae
Order: Rosales
Family: Leguminosae
Subfamily: Papilionaceae
Genus: Psoralea
Species: corylifolia Linn.
Distribution: The plant grows in tropical and subtropical
regions of the world including Southern Africa, China, and
India; it is also found throughout India in Himalayas, Dehra
Dun, Oudh, Bundelkhand, Bengal, Bombay, some valley in
Bihar, Deccan, and Karnataka.
(https://examine.com/supplements/psoralea-corylifolia/). This
plant is also widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical
regions of the world, especially China and Southern Africa
Available Online at http://www.recentscientific.com
International Journal of
Recent Scientific
Research
International Journal of Recent Scientific Research
Vol. 7, Issue, 6, pp. 11504-11512, June, 2016
Copyright © Sadia Chishty, Monika., 2016, this is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative
Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the
original work is properly cited.
Article History:
Received 06th March, 2015
Received in revised form 14th April, 2016
Accepted 23rd May, 2016
Published online 28
th
June, 2016
Key Words:
Psoralea corylifolia, baapchi, babchi,sabza
seeds, medicinal importance.

Sadia Chishty, Monika., A Review on Medicinal Importance of Babchi (Psoralea Corylifolia)
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(Krishnamurthi et al., 1969; http://www.mdidea.com ;
http://www.herbsguide.net)
Description of the Plant: It is a small, erect, annual herb
growing up to 60–120 cm in height throughout sandy, loamy
plains of Central and East India (Joshi, 2000; Sebastian, 2006).
Chopra et al found that the seeds contain an essential oil
(0.05%), a nonvolatile terpenoid oil, a dark brown resin (8.6%),
and traces of alkaloidal substance. Dymock stated that the
seeds contain 13.2% of extractive matter, albumin, sugar, ash
7.4%, and traces of manganese. (Chopra and Chopra, 1958;
Panda, 2000)
Composition: P. corylifolia extract contains a number of
chemical compounds including flavonoids (neobavaisoflavone,
isobavachalcone, bavachalcone,bavachinin, bavachin, corylin,
corylifol, corylifolin and 6-prenylnaringenin), coumarins
(psoralidin, psoralen, isopsoralen and angelicin) and
meroterpenes (bakuchiol and 3-hydroxybakuchiol) (Zhao et al.,
2005). Very high concentrations genistein have been found in
the leaves of P. corylifolia (Kaufman et al., 1997). Many
studies have confirmed that plants and foods rich in
polyphenolic content are effective scavengers of free radicals,
thus helping in the prevention of these diseases through their
antioxidant activity (Fazelian and Eslami, 2009). Antioxidants
which are present in plants, herbs and dietary sources help in
preventing vascular diseases in diabetic patients (Buyukbalci
and Sedef Nehir, 2008). Tannins and flavonoids are the
secondary metabolites in plants considered to be the natural
source of antioxidants which prevent destruction of β-cells and
diabetes-induced ROS formation. (Aslan et al., 2010) Thus, it
is a good strategy to manage diabetes as a whole with plants
which show good enzyme inhibitory and antioxidant activities
(Joshi et al., 1999).
Different Plant Parts and Their Uses: The plant can be used
externally or it can be taken internally. Seeds, seed oil, roots,
and leaves are being used (Khare, 2004,
http://www.motherherbs.com, http://www.india-shopping.net).
Most parts of the plant (roots, leaves, seeds and an oil from the
seeds) appear to be used, seeds being most commonly used
(Khushboo et al., 2010).
Seeds
Seeds are sweet, bitter, acrid, and astringent. They impart vigor
and vitality; improve digestive power and receptive power of
mind (Joshi, 2000).
People take babchi seeds orally, for curing various health
conditions, such as an intestinal worm infestation. However, an
overdose of babchi seeds could bring about some adverse side
effects, such as headaches, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting
(http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/askquestion/3682/
what-are-the-benefits-and-side-effects-of-babchi-oil.html).
Seed and extract powder are used as diuretic, anthelminthic,
laxative, and for healing wounds (Mukherjee, 2002; Rajpal,
2005). Seeds are antipyretic and alexiteric (Agharkar, 1991).
Seeds are used as stomachic, stimulant, aphrodisiac,
(Mukherjee, 2002) and diaphoretic (Sharma, Yelne and Dennis,
2001). It is an effective invigorant against impotence,
menstruation disorder, and uterine hemorrhage. It shows
coronary vasodilatory activity (Ruan et al., 2007). It is a cure
for gynecologic bleeding (Qiao et al., 2006). It is also useful to
treat spermatorrhea and premature ejaculation (Lin et al.,
2007). The seeds act as deobstruent and heal ulcer, heart
troubles, and cure blood disorders and elephantitis (Khatune et
al., 2002). Seeds are given in scorpion-sting and snake bite
(Panda, 2000; Nadkarni, 1976). Seeds are useful in bilious
disorders (Panda, 2000; Kapoor, 2001).
The crude drug has been used for the treatment of enuresis,
pollakiuria, painful feeling of cold in the waist and knees, and
weak kidney (Zhao et al., 2005; Zhao, Wu and Xiang, 2005). It
is used in the treatment of debility and other problems related
to kidney inefficiency, such as febrile disorders, low back
pains, frequent urination, incontinence, and bed wetting
(http://www.mdidea.com ).
Roots
The root is useful in treating the caries of the teeth. P.
corylifolia is used to promote bone calcification, making it
useful for treating osteoporosis and bone fractures
(Krishnamurthi et al., 1969; http://www.mdidea.com ; Joshi,
2000). The root of the P. corylifolia plant can be used in the
treatment of dental problems (http://www.home-remedies-for-
you.com/askquestion/3682/what-are-the-benefits-and-side-
effects-of-babchi-oil.html).
Leaves
Leaves are used to alleviate diarrhea (Krishnamurthi et al.,
1969).
Fruits
Fruit is bitter, helps to prevent vomiting, cures difficulty in
micturition, used in treating piles, bronchitis, and anemias and
improves complexion (Joshi, 2000). The fruit of the P.
corylifolia plant are believed to have aphrodisiac properties and
can be applied to the genital organs, as a tonic. The fruits are
generally used for treating febrile diseases, incontinence,
premature ejaculation, bed wetting, frequent urination,
impotence and lower backaches. The antibacterial properties
that are present in the fruit are known to restrict the growth of
mycobacterium tuberculosis (http://www.home-remedies-for-
you.com/askquestion/3682/what-are-the-benefits-and-side-
effects-of-babchi-oil.html).
Oil
The use of P. corylifolia oil can help cure several skin diseases
like tinea versicular, scabies, ringworm and psoriasis. People
also use babchi oil for vitiligo treatment (http://www.home-
remedies-for-you.com/askquestion/3682/what-are-the-benefits-
and-side-effects-of-babchi-oil.html).
Pharmacology
An extract of the plant's fruit Fructus psoraleæ has been shown
to act as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor in vitro
(Zhao et al., 2007).
Extracts obtained from the seeds of P. corylifolia have been
shown to inhibit mitochondrial complex I in vitro and may
therefore increase susceptibility to oxidative stress (Tang et al.,
2007). P. corylifolia has been implicated in at least one case of
severe hepatotoxicity in a 64-year-old woman who self-
medicated with a variety of Aryuvedic herbs for her vitiligo.

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The authors identify psoralens as "the primary candidate
causing the hepatotoxic reaction (Teschke and Bahre, 2009).
Uses According To Their Pharmacological Importance
Phytochemical studies indicated that coumarins, flavonoids,
and meroterpenes are the main components of P. corylifolia,
and most of these components are present in the seeds or fruits.
The extracts and active components of P. corylifolia
demonstrated multiple biological activities, including
estrogenic, antitumor, anti-oxidant, antimicrobial,
antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, osteoblastic, and
hepatoprotective activities (Zhang et al., 2016).
Antioxidant Activity
The structures of the isolated compounds were identified by (1)
H NMR and (13) C NMR. The results of antioxidant activity
estimation by electron spin resonance (ESR) method showed
that psoralidin was the most active antioxidant with an IC50
value of 44.7microM. This is the first report on simultaneous
separation of eight compounds from P. corylifolia by HSCCC
(Xiao et al., 2010). Guo et al. (2005) proved that the powder
and extracts of P. corylifolia possessed strong antioxidant
properties when tested in lard at 100°C by using oxidative
stability instrument. Antioxidant activity of compounds
decrease in the following order: Psoralidin > BHT > α-
tocopherol > bakuchiol > corylifolin > corylin > isopsoralen >
psoralen (Guo et al., 2005). Bakuchiol and 2 of the flavonoids,
isobavachin and isobavachalcone, showed broad antioxidant
activities in rat liver microsomes and mitochondria (Rajpal,
2005).
Antibacterial Activity
Staphylococcus aureus causes a variety of human diseases,
ranging from minor skin infections to severe sepsis, and MRSA
(Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus ) has become one
of the most frequently encountered antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Since a number of prenylflavonoids and related compounds
were isolated from P. corylifolia (Yin et al., 2004; Cheng et al.,
2007; Wang et al., 2004).
(Yanmei et al. (2015) preliminary research showed that P.
corylifolia fruit extract exhibited remarkable antibacterial
effects on MRSA, several anti-MRSA constituents were found
in P. corylifolia fruits, indicating that this plant may be a
valuable resource for lead compound development of anti-
MRSA drugs. They isolated 17 compounds from the ethyl
acetate extract of P. corylifolia. Among these compounds, two
new compounds, bakuisoflavone and bakuflavanone, were
elucidated to be 4′,7-dihydroxy-3′-(2-hydroxy-3-methyl-3-
butenyl)-isoflavone and 4′,7-dihydroxy-3′-(2-hydroxy-3-
methyl- 3-butenyl)-flavanone, respectively. The antibacterial
effects of the isolated compounds, which were categorized as a
flavone , flavanones, isoflavones, chalcones, meroterpenes, and
coumarins, were examined. Among them, isobavachalcone and
bakuchiol showed significant anti-MRSA effects. Corylifol C,
neobavaisoflavone and corylifol B also showed potent
antibacterial effects. According to quantitative analysis, these
effective compounds are all highly present in P. corylifolia.
Their findings suggest that this plant may be a promising
resource for lead compound development of anti-MRSA drugs
(Yanmei et al., 2015).
Chanda, Kaneria and Nair (2011) screened thirteen plants for
their in vitro antibacterial potentiality. The antibacterial activity
of aqueous and methanolic extracts of the plants was evaluated
against 5 microorganisms by agar well diffusion method.
Amongst the 13 plants screened, P. corylifolia showed best
antibacterial activity and hence this plant was selected for
further studies. The seed and aerial parts of P. corylifolia was
extracted successively using a series of various organic
solvents. All the extracts of seed and aerial parts were active
against S. epidermidis and P. morganii while none of the
extracts were active against A. fecalis. Maximum antibacterial
activity was shown by dioxan extract of the seed. Their
findings suggest that the dioxan extract of seed of P. corylifolia
can be used as a promising novel antibacterial agent in the near
future (Chanda, Kaneria and Nair, 2011).
A potential antifilarial activity of P. corylifolia leaves and
seeds on cattle filarial parasite Setaria cervi was observed
(Rajpal, 2005).The alcoholic extract produced death of
microfilariae and showed antimycobacterial activity (Gupta,
Neeraj and Madhu, 2005). Khatune et al. (2002) proved
pesticidal activity of 6-(-3-methylbut-2-enyl)-6’,7-
dihydroxycoumestan.
Estrogenic Actvity and Bone Density
P. corylifolia is a herb with a variety of unique compounds,
traditionally touted for its usage in menopause to fight signs
and symptoms of estrogen deficiency. There is limited
evidence in humans currently, so most conclusions are based
upon animal models and in vitro research
(https://examine.com/supplements/psoralea-corylifolia/).
Estrogenic activities of ethanol extract and its active
components from P. corylifolia L. were studied using
various in vitro assays. The main components from ethanol
extract were analyzed to be bakuchiol, psoralen,
isobavachalcone, isobavachromene, and bavachinin. In a
fractionation procedure, hexane and chloroform fractions
showed estrogenic activity in yeast transactivation assay and E-
screen assay. In yeast transactivation assay, ethanol extract,
hexane, and chloroform fractions showed significantly higher
activities at a concentration of 1.0 ng/ml, and bakuchiol at the
concentration of 10 6 M was showed the highest activity,
especially, which was higher than genistein at the same
concentration. In E-screen assay, cell proliferation of bakuchiol
(10 6 M) showed similar estrogenic activity with genistein
(10 6 M). In ER binding assay, bakuchiol displayed the
strongest ER-binding affinity (IC50 for ERα = 1.01 × 10 6 M,
IC50 for ERβ = 1.20 × 10 6 M) and bakuchiol showed five
times higher affinity for ERα than for ERβ (Lim et al., 2011).
The estrogenic activity of 70% EtOH extracts of 32 traditional
Chinese medicinal plants was assessed and one of the efficient
plant was P. corylifolia. Their study gave support to the
reported efficacy of Chinese medicines used for hormone
replacement therapy (Zhang et al., 2005). The active fractions
yielded seven compounds including the two coumarins
isopsoralen and psoralen, the four flavonoids isobavachalcone,
bavachin, corylifol A and neobavaisoflavone, and the
meroterpene phenol, bakuchiol all the compounds have
estrogenic activity, they may exert different biological effects.
In conclusion, both ER subtype-selective and nonselective

Sadia Chishty, Monika., A Review on Medicinal Importance of Babchi (Psoralea Corylifolia)
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activities in compounds derived from PCL suggested that PCL
could be a new source for selective estrogen-receptor
modulators ( Xin et al., 2010).
One component of Psoralea, Bakuchiol, shows greater efficacy
at a concentration of 1uM was able to activate the estrogen
receptor with a potency similar to Genistein (one of the Soy
Isoflavones) and had a binding affinity to the estrogen
receptors of 1.01uM and 1.6uM for alpha and beta subunits
respectively, with a five-fold affinity for ERα (Lim et al.,
2011) this affinity has been noted to merely be three-fold
elsewhere, where the IC50 value was found to be 1.34mcg/mL
(Lim et al., 2009).
Psoralen and Isopsoralen show selectivity to the alpha subunit,
while four other flavonoid compounds did not show selectivity
but failed to proliferate MCF-7 cells (suggesting weak
estrogenicity) (Xin et al., 2010). Most likely, Bakuchiol is the
biologically relevant phytoestrogen. A few molecules in
Psoralea may be phytoestrogens, and although isolated
Bakuchiol appears to be relatively potent the overall plant
extract of P. corylifolia does not appear to be remarkably
potent (https://examine.com/supplements/psoralea-corylifolia/).
It does appear to have some promise for the purpose of bone
regeneration in several rat models of menopause, and this
appears to be traceable to several different molecules; the class
of prenylated isoflavones appears to enhance bone cell
differentiation and said rat studies have confirmed an increase
in bone mass. (https://examine.com/supplements/psoralea-
corylifolia/).
Recent research suggests that P. corylifolia has potent
oestrogenic effects and that its seeds may be a useful remedy
for bone fractures, osteomalacia and osteoporosis (Zhang et al.,
2005). Components derived from P. corylifolia, including
bakuchiol, corylifolia, corylin, psoralidin and isobavachin, have
strong antioxidant activities (Haraguchi et al., 2002), and
corylin and bavachin have been shown to stimulate osteoblastic
proliferation (Wang, Li and Jiang, 2001).
Little information is available concerning the oestrogenic
characteristics of P. corylifolia in animal models. Lim et al.
(2009) investigated whether ethanol extracts of P. corylifolia L.
(PCE) and its active component protect against bone loss in
ovariectomised rats. They screened oestrogenic activities of the
main extract fractions using in vitro assays and identified
bakuchiol as the most active oestrogenic component by HPLC
and LC/MS, and then demonstrated that bakuchiol had strong
binding affinity for oestrogen receptor (ER) a. Seventy female
Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to either a sham-operated
group (n 10) or an ovariectomised group (n 60). The
ovariectomised group was subdivided into six groups, each
containing ten rats: vehicle group, two bakuchiol-treated
groups (dose of 15 mg/kg per d or 30 mg/kg per d; ten rats for
each group), two PCE-supplemented groups (0·25% or 0·5%
extracts of diets; ten rats for each group) and a 17b-oestradiol
(E2)-treated group (20 mg/kg per d). They recorded weight and
feed intake every week, and killed all animals after 6 weeks.
Blood was collected, and the uterus, kidneys and livers were
removed. Bakuchiol has a three-fold higher binding affinity for
ERa than for ERb. Bakuchiol and PCE treatments had no
uterotrophic activity even though they demonstrated
oestrogenic activity in the in vitro assays. Bakuchiol and PCE
treatments reduced postmenopausal bone loss by increasing
alkaline phosphatase, Ca concentrations, serum E2
concentration and bone mineral density, and by decreasing the
inorganic P level. Their study indicated that bakuchiol and PCE
treatments could protect against bone loss. Bakuchiol and PCE
treatments may have attenuated bone loss by decreasing the IP
levels and by slightly increasing Ca concentration in serum. An
increase in BMD was also observed in the proximal femur of
ovariectomised rats. Surprisingly, the BH and PH groups
exhibited significantly higher BMD than the sham group, and
similar BMD to the E2- treated group. The serum E2
concentration was also consistent with the BMD results. Zhang
et al. reported that PCE inhibits bone resorption in vitro (Zhang
et al., 2005) and that an acetone extract of P. corylifolia
significantly increased serum IP and promoted bone
calcification in rats (Miura, Nishida and Iinuma, 1996). The
study suggested that bakuchiol and PCE supplementation can
reduce postmenopausal bone loss without the need for
oestrogen. Bakuchiol was the most active component. They
concluded bakuchiol as potent phyto-oestrogen and useful
alternative to HRT (Lim et al., 2009).
One study in rabbits that induced surgical defects in bone
tissues but grafted the defect with Psoralea extract (to a
concentration around 100 mg/mL water extract) followed for
14 days noted that, under histological examination, new bone
tissue was being formed at the Psoralea-Graft interface and
quantified to be 275% greater than collagen control (Wong and
Rabie, 2010).
In ovariectomized rats (model for menopause), isolated
Psoralen was able to increase trabecular thickness over a period
of three months relative to control; the mechanisms appear to
be related to the Notch signalling pathway (Yang et al., 2012).
Isolated Bakuchiol as well appears to preserve bone mass in
ovariectomized rats at oral dose of 15-30 mg/kg, and although
Bakuchiol appears to work via estrogenic means (threefold
higher affinity for ERα relative to ERβ, with a 1.34mcg/mL
IC50 value on the former, it did not increase uterine weight in
this study despite an increase in circulating estrogen; (Lim et
al., 2009), null effects seen elsewhere. The whole seed extract
of P. corylifolia (50mg/kg daily for 3 months) has also been
implicated in increasing bone mineral density in rats (Tsai et
al., 2007), although when 0.25-0.5% of the rat diet as P.
corylifolia is compared to an active control of 20mcg/kg
estrogen, it underperforms (Lim, et al., 2009).
Anti Carcinogenic Activity
P. corylifolia contains bavachinin, corylifolinin, and psoralen
all of which inhibit the multiplication of osteosarcoma and lung
cancer cells (http://www.mdidea.com). They are also useful in
fibrosarcoma, malignant ascites, and leukemia
(http://www.cancercliniconline.com).
Topical application of 100 mg/kg body weight of the active
fraction (AF) of P. corylifolia seeds inhibited the growth and
delayed the onset of papilloma formation in mice, initiated with
7,12-dimethyl benz(a) anthracene and promoted using croton
oil. The AF at the same dose, when administered orally,
inhibited the growth of subcutaneously injected 20-
methylcholanthrene (MCA) — induced soft tissue
fibrosarcomas significantly. The AF has been shown by gas

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11508 | P a g e
chromatography analysis to be composed of a mixture of
glycerides of fatty acids (Latha and Panikkar, 1999).
Bakuchiol, one of the major constituent of P. corylifolia, has
been shown to possess a prominent cytotoxic effect on L929
cells in all cultures. It also showed cytotoxicity against cultured
human cell lines, namely, A549, SK-OV-3, SK-MEL-2, XF-
498, and HCT-15 (Rastogi and Mehrotra, 1998). Psoralidin, a
coumestan derivative isolated from the seeds, showed a
cytotoxic effect on stomach cancer cell line with IC50 values of
53 μg/ mL in SNU-1 and 203 μg/mL in SNU-16 (Rajpal,
2005). Byung et al showed antitumor and cytotoxic activity of
the drug (Khatune et al., 2002). Guo et al. (2003) proved that
psoralen and isopsoralen had antitumor activity against BGC-
823 cancer cells. P. corylifolia seed extract has been reported to
stimulate the immune system in mice. Administration of the
seed extract was also found to inhibit EAC ascitic tumor
growth and stimulate natural killer cell activity, antibody-
dependent cellular cytotoxicity, antibody forming cells, and the
antibody complement-mediated cytotoxicity during tumor
development (Rajpal, 2005).
The P. corylifolia extract appears to have cytotoxic effects in
some cancer cells. Bronikowska et al. (2012) studied isolated
Psoralidin (Coumarin) effect which showed enhanced apoptosis
via TRAIL (Tumor Necrosis Factor-related apoptosis-inducing
ligand), it is a pathway by which the immune system can
selectively destroy tumor cells by releasing TRAIL (expressed
on some immune cells) into a soluble form, which then acts on
death receptors on cancer cells (Bonavida et al., 1999; Szliszka
and Krol , 2011; Lee et al., 2007).
Psoralidin has also been noted to reverse TRAIL resistance in
vitro againt cancer cells and appears to overcome cancer cell
resistance to TNF-α (Srinivasan et al., 2010) (both TNF-α and
TRAIL belonging to the same TNF superfamily)
(https://examine.com/supplements/psoralea-corylifolia/).
Reproductive Toxicity
An ethanolic extract of P. corylifolia at 0.375, 0.75, 1.5, or 3%
of the rat diet by weight for 90 days noted decreases in weight
at doses of 0.75% and above accompanied by decreased gonad
weight (testes and ovaries) at doses of 1.5-3% of the
diet. (Takizawa et al., 2002) As a previous study on 8-
methoxypsoralen was accompanied by testicular atrophy,
(National Toxicology Program report 1989) it was thought that
these doses were showing Psoralen-induced reproductive
toxicity. Increased yGPT and BUN were also noted at the
highest dose (3%) in both sexes, and also at 0.75-1.5% in
female rats. One preliminary study in rats suggested that 8g/kg
bodyweight Psoralea (estimated human dose of 87g for a 150lb
female) could potentially be associated with reproductive
toxicity in female pregnant rats (Xu et al., 2012).
Anti-Depressant Activity
There are two studies in rats suggesting a possible anti-stress
and anti-depressant effect, although they are not to a
remarkable degree. The mechanisms of Bakuchiol and its
derivatives are highly catecholamine (dopamine, noradrenaline
and adrenaline) based, and there is possibility of interactions
between Psoralea and classical stimulants
(https://examine.com/supplements/psoralea-corylifolia/).
Chen et al. (2007) studied the antidepressant activity of total
furanocoumarins present in P. corylifolia (TFPC) in the chronic
mild stress model of depression in mice. The results revealed
that TFPC possess potent and rapid antidepressant properties
that are mediated via MAO, the hypothalamic–pituitary–
adrenal axis, and oxidative symptoms. Thus, it makes P.
corylifolia, a potentially valuable drug for the treatment of
depression in the elderly. Xu et al. (2008) also proved
psoralen's antidepressant effects, using forced swimming test
model of depression in male mice.
In the forced swim test model in mice, Psoralen at an oral dose
of 10, 20, and 40mg/kg for 1, 7, and 14 days noted that the
highest dose was associated with anti-depressive effects.
Normalizations in serotonin and corticosteroid level at
20mg/kg (with 10 and 40mg/kg underperforming relative to
20mg/kg) suggest an Adaptogen-like effect (Xu et al., 2008).
P. corylifolia furanocoumarins (30-50mg/kg) have been
further tested in a model of Chronic stress, and appeared to
have anti-stress effects as assessed by serum corticosterones
and a sucrose-preference test (Chen et al., 2007).
Anti Ageing and Hepato-Protective
It has hepatoprotective properties
(http://www.cancercliniconline.com ). PCS extract and
bakuchiol have been reported to have a protective effect on
hepatic injury (Park et al., 2005; Cho et al., 2001). However,
the mechanism of action is not fully understood. Eunhui et al.
(2013) in their study, examined whether PCS extract has an
antioxidant effect and improves mitochondrial function in
hepatocytes, as hepatocytes are exposed to large amounts of
ROS due to their numerous mitochondria and high respiratory
rate. As ROS are known to play a central role in mediating
various metabolic disorders related to aging, inhibiting ROS
(Reactive oxygen species) production and enhancing ROS
scavenging may be useful for treating aging and age-related
metabolic disorders. Their study suggested that PCS extract is
effective for protecting hepatocytes from ROS toxicity. a better
understanding of the response to oxidative stress and
mitochondrial regulation in hepatocytes will reveal new
therapeutic targets for age associated degenerative diseases.
PCS extract may be a beneficial plant-based dietary component
to counteract oxidative stress-induced disease or aging (Eunhui
et al., 2013). Therefore, modulation of these age-associated
mitochondrial changes may slow the aging process and prevent
or delay age-related diseases. PCS has been used traditionally
as a medicine in Asia and are known to have antioxidant
activity (Haraguchi et al., 2002; Jiangning et al., 2005; Jan et
al., 2012).
In particular, a component of PCS has liver detoxifying and
hepato-protective effects (Park et al., 2005; Cho et al., 2001;
Park et al., 2007). The accumulation of oxidative damage and
mitochondrial dysfunction is an important factor that
contributes to aging.
The glucoside of the isoflavonoid, diadzein, called diadzin,
inhibits the enzymes alcohol dehydrogenase and NAD-
dependent alcohol aldehyde dehydrogenase. These enzymes
catalyse the oxidation of acetaldehyde, the primary product of
alcohol metabolism. So, when diadzin is present, alcohol levels
in the bloodstream increase and cannot be metabolized by the

Sadia Chishty, Monika., A Review on Medicinal Importance of Babchi (Psoralea Corylifolia)
11509 | P a g e
enzymes. An important consequence of this is that alcoholics
soon lose their appetite for alcohol (Peter, 1998).
The water-soluble extract containing bakuchiol has been found
to possess hepatoprotective activity in tacrine-induced
cytotoxicity in human liver-derived HepG2 cells. The EC50
value of bakuchiol was 1 μg/mL and of silymarin was 5 μg/mL
(Rajpal, 2005).
Twelve compounds were isolated from P. corylifolia and their
structures were identified as isopsoralen (1), psoralen (2), 8-
methoxypsoralen (3), psoralidin (4), corylin (5), bavachin (6),
daidzein (7), corylifolinin (8), bavachinin (9),
neobavaisoflavone (10), daidzin (11) and astragalin (12). The
results showed that psoralidin had the activity of scavenging
DPPH free radicals activity (IC50 43.85 mg x L(-1)).
Psoralidin (IC50 1.32 mg x L(-1))c, oryfolin (IC50 4.97 mg x
L(-1)), daidzin (IC50 10.47 mg x S(-1)), daidzein (IC50 34.22
mg) x L(-1)) and astragalin (IC50 31.27 mg x L(-1)) had the
activity of scavenging ABTS free radical. Psoralidin (IC50
40.74 mg x L(-1)), coryfolin (IC50 45.73 mg x L(-1)) and
daidzein (IC50 49.44 mg x L(-1)) had alpha-glucosidase
inhibitory activity. Corylifolinin and neobavaisoflavone had
significantly effect of inhibiting SA, MRSA and ESBLs-SA
(MIC 0. 781 3, 1.562, 5, 0.781 25 microg x disc(-1) and 6.25,
6.25, 6.25 microg x disc(-1) (Wang et al ., 2013).
Anti Inflammatory Activity
Bavachinin A isolated from fruits revealed a marked anti-
inflammatory, antipyretic, and mild analgesic properties at a
dose of 25–100 mg/kg. It has demonstrated better antipyretic
activity than paracetamol and showed no effect on the central
nervous system, and the maximum lethal dose was greater than
1000 mg/kg in mice (Rajpal, 2005). Several flavonoids from P.
corylifolia might be useful remedies for treating inflammatory
diseases by inhibiting IL-6-induced STAT3 activation and
phosphorylation (Lee et al., 2012). It also showed anti-
inflammatory activity against carrageenan-induced edema in
rats (Kapoor, 2001).
Skin Related Problem/ Leucoderma
Vitiligo is a skin condition, which is characterized by white
patches on the skin. This condition is caused by immune
system problems. There is no specific cure for vitiligo, but
there are many ways in which the symptoms can be controlled.
The most effective home remedy for vitiligo recommended by
doctors and other health experts is the use of herbal
components that contain psoralens. There are several natural
products, which contain psoralen, like celery, parsley, West
Indian satinwood and figs (http://www.home-remedies-for-
you.com/askquestion/3682/what-are-the-benefits-and-side-
effects-of-babchi-oil.html).
Rashid Ali and Agarwal showed that psoralen accelerates the
photooxidation of DOPA under sunlight as well as photo flood
lamplight (Kapoor, 2001).
Topical application of active fraction from seeds inhibited the
growth and delayed the onset of papilloma formation (Gupta,
Neeraj and Madhu, 2005). Psoralen, when orally taken by
rabbit at a dose of 4 mg/g and exposed in sun, there was
pigment deposition. The furanocoumarins, which contain
psoralens, promote pigmentation (Sebastian, 2006). The
powder is used by Vaidyas internally for leprosy and
leukoderma and externally in the form of paste and ointment
(Panda, 2000; Nadkarni, 1976). It is used in the inflammatory
diseases, mucomembranous disorders, dermatitis, and
edematous conditions of the skin (Sharma, Yelne and Dennis,
2001; http://www.wikipedia.com ; Rajpal, 2005). It also
alleviates boils and skin eruptions. The plant has blood
purifying properties. It is used to treat itching red papules,
itching eruptions, extensive eczema with thickened dermis,
ringworm, rough and discolored dermatosis, dermatosis with
fissures, and scabies (Khare, 2004).
Other Uses
Seeds are used to make perfumed oil (Nadkarni, 1976). The
ethanolic extract has been used as a food additive for the
preservation of some processed foods or pickles in Japan (Qiao
et al., 2007). The seed cake rich in nitrogen and minerals is
used as feed or manure (Krishnamurthi et al., 1969).
Negative Effects
The potential hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies is usually
ignored in daily life. P. corylifolia appeared to be associated
with the occurrence of acute cholestatic hepatic injury. Some
alternative medicine therapists claim that P. corylifoliais
effective for the treatment of osteoporosis. They observed a
case of acute cholestatic hepatitis associated with the use of the
seeds of P. corylifolia in amounts over 10 times the usual dose
in a postmenopausal woman. Liver biopsy showed zone three
necroses, degenerating cells, cholestasis, and infiltrations with
inflammatory cells. This case stresses the need to warn of the
potential hepatotoxicity of the seed of P. corylifolia, especially
in a large dose (Nam et al., 2005).
Fructus Psoraleae (FP) is used by herbalists for the treatment of
postmenopausal osteoporosis, vitiligo, and psoriasis. It is used
alone, or in combination with other herbs, in some countries in
the form of proprietary medicine. It is recognized as one of the
emerging hepatotoxins and they reported three cases of acute
hepatitis after exposed to FP and its related proprietary
medicine. They suggested psoralen and its related chemicals
may be responsible for the hepatotoxicity. Decoction with other
herbs may result in higher concentration of toxic constituents
and in more severe liver injury. FP is associated with
hepatotoxicity in some individuals. Pharmaco-vigilance for the
potential side effects of herbal products is necessary (Cheung et
al., 2009).
CONCLUSION
Psoralea corylifolia is an important medicinal plant with
thousands of years of clinical application. The plant parts have
been used in leukoderma, psoriasis, vitiligo, asthma, ulcers, and
kidney disorders. It contains various pharmacologically
important compounds. The plant could be very beneficial as a
daily novel food or can be promoted for its medicinal
properties and more research areas could be explored based on
its pharmacological properties.
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How to cite this article:
Sadia Chishty, Monika.2016, A Review on Medicinal Importance of Babchi (Psoralea Corylifolia). Int J Recent Sci Res. 7(6), pp.
11504-11512.
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