ABSTRACT
Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a tropical to subtropical crop that originated in SouthEast Asia. Litchi fruit are prized on the world market for their flavor, semi-translucent white aril and attractive red skin. Litchi is now grown commercially in many countries and its production in Australia, China, Israel, South Africa, and Thailand has expanded markedly in recent years. Increased production has made significant contributions to economic development in these countries, especially those in South-East Asia. Litchi has been used since ancient age for the traditional Chinese medicine formulation, serving as relief of neural pain and swelling. Litchi fruit pericarp (LFP) tissues account for approximately 15% by weight of the whole fresh fruit and are comprised of significant amount of flavonoids. Furthermore, the extract from LFP tissues exhibits excellent antioxidant ability and good anticancer activity. The book chapter overviews the recent advances in the extraction, biological activities, and utilization of the bioactive compounds present in LFP. Some novel pharmacological potential of the litchi fruit is also discussed, which could be helpful for full utilization of this fruit in the future.
