ABSTRACT
The Meliaceae family is a well-known source of structurally complex, degraded triterpenoids and limonoids. Members of the genus Dysoxylum, however, produce a series of dammarane, glabretal, and apotirucallane triterpenoids, as well as diterpenes which are cytotoxic and nonedible. With regard to pharmacological properties of Meliaceae, there is a massive body of evidence to support the concept that limonoids which abound in this taxon might provide in near future, if enough work is devoted to it, antineoplastic agents of clinical value. The Malays and Jahuts use a poultice of fruits is used to treat rheumatism. A plaster of boiled roots is applied to treat abdominal pain. The roots of Sandoricum koejape Merr. are used to treat intestinal disorders throughout Southeast Asia. In the Hainan Islands and in Malaysia, leaves are boiled in water to make a drink used to treat cholera. The Filipinos eat the fruits to treat diarrhea. Indonesians use the fruits as a tonic and externally to soothe inflammation.
