An important spice, Pimenta dioica (Linn.) Merill: A Review.

Pimenta dioica (Linn.) Merill. Family: Myrtaceae, well known for its berries called Pimento, has been used as an important spice since time immemorial, for its culinary as well as medicinal qualities. It is also known as Allspice due to its intricate aroma which is a medley of aroma from spices such as Clove, Nutmeg and Cinnamon. In India, the leaves of Pimenta are used to flavor rice which gives it a typical aroma. Traditional culinary practice uses the dried berries for marinating meat. Various compounds have been isolated from the plant which belong to categories like phenylpropanoids, tannins, glycosides and essential oil. The present article is a humble effort to study the work done till date on this important spice.