Vol. 7, Issue 7, Part A (2025)

Carissa carandas, commonly known as Karonda, is a tropical fruit native to South Asia, widely recognized for its unique flavor and potential therapeutic applications. Despite its historical use in traditional medicine and culinary practices, Karonda remains an underutilized resource in the field of nutraceutical chemistry. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties of Carissa carandas, emphasizing its untapped potential as a source of bioactive compounds. Phytochemical analyses have identified a variety of secondary metabolites in Karonda, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, alkaloids, and triterpenoids, which contribute to its potent antioxidant activity. Through in vitro and in vivo assays, such as DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS assay, and lipid peroxidation inhibition, Karonda extracts have demonstrated significant antioxidant potential, comparable to established antioxidants like ascorbic acid. The fruit's antioxidant properties are primarily attributed to its high phenolic and flavonoid content, which plays a vital role in mitigating oxidative stress and associated diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative conditions. Furthermore, the paper explores the potential applications of Karonda in functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, highlighting its ability to enhance health benefits and improve product formulations. Despite its promising potential, the fruit faces challenges in terms of post-harvest handling, standardization, and clinical validation. Future research focused on these areas will be crucial to unlocking the full nutraceutical potential of Carissa carandas, positioning it as a valuable addition to the growing market of natural health products.