A Review of Phytochemistry and Properties of Jujube (Ziziphus vulgaris L.)
Document Type : Original Article
Abstract
Iran has a great wealth of various naturally occurring medicinal plants which have great potential pharmacological activities. Ziziphus vulgaris known as Jujube is one of these plants. For a long time Z. vulgaris has been used in alternative medicine as anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemia and anti- hypertension. Z. vulgaris has recently been shown to have antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic and sedative activities. Flavonoids, alkaloids and saponins are the main phytochemicals which are reported from this plant. Considering the easy collection of the plant, its wide distribution in warm-temperate regions, and remarkable biological activities, this plant is used as both medicine and food in some parts of the world including Iran. This paper reviews the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of this medicinal plant.
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