Phytometabolites, Pharmacological Effects, Ethnomedicinal Properties, and Bioeconomic Potential of Velvet Apple (Diospyros discolor Willd.): A Review

Diospyros discolor Willd., commonly known as Velvet apple or Mabolo, is an underutilized fruit. Traditionally, various parts of D. discolor have been used in medicine for treating ailments such as dysentery, diarrhoea, and respiratory issues. Pharmacologically, the plant has exhibited diverse effects including anti-aging, antimicrobial, anti-asthmatic, antioxidant, anti-acetylcholinesterase, cytotoxic, and thrombolytic activities. These findings substantiate its traditional uses, particularly its potential as an antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and vasorelaxant agent. Diospyros discolor is notable for its rich aromatic profile, containing 39 volatile compounds in the fruit and peel, with esters and α-farnesene being the predominant compounds. Volatile esters such as methyl butyrate and ethyl dominate the aroma. Nutritionally, the fruit contains dietary fibre, malic acid, vitamins, essential fatty acids, flavonoids, and triterpenes. Additionally, bioactive compounds including flavonoids, triterpenes, and dimeric naphthoquinones (e.g., diospyrin) have been isolated from the plant. The essential oil derived from its flowers further enhances its bioeconomic and health benefits. Moreover, D. discolor holds bioeconomic potential, being used as a biosorbent, a source of timber, a material for synthesizing silver nanoparticles, and a producer of edible fruit. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the traditional uses, phytometabolites, pharmacological properties, and bioeconomic potential of D. discolor.