Bauhinia purpurea: A plant with anti-obesity activity

Obesity is considered as one of the most serious health concerns worldover, as it is a potential risk factor to develop hypertension, cardiovascular disorders, type-2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver, metabolic syndrome, stroke and cancers. The rich potential of natural resources to combat obesity disorders has not been fully explored. The present study is to investigate anti-obesity and anti-hyperlipidemicproperties of Bauhinia purpurea. B. purpurea is an orchid and medium sized deciduous tree found in a variety of habitats in South Asia, south East Asia, Southern China and Japan. Common names include Butterfly tree, Geranium tree and Camels foot tree.Frequently met with in all forests and also cultivated in gardens and identified by deep rose colouredfragrant flowers.