Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill. (Rhamnaceae)): a review on its pharmacological properties and phytochemistry

Abstract

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. It is distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions of Europe and Asia, including India, China, Iran, Russia, and the Middle East. Jujube is a highly tolerant tree that is resistant to soil salinity and alkalinity. Jujube possesses many phytochemical components and pharmacological properties that make it a good choice for the human diet. Jujube fruit is nutritious and rich in proteins, minerals, vitamins, organic acids, and carbohydrates. It also contains phytochemical components such as polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, anthocyanins, alkaloids, and carotenoids. Jujube has both nutraceutical and cosmeceutical properties. All parts of this plant possess medicinal properties. Jujube has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially in traditional Persian medicine. It has many pharmacological properties according to traditional Persian medicine, which include anti-pruritic and tranquilizing effects for renal and bladder pain. In Chinese medicine, jujube is used to increase appetite and treat diarrhea and fatigue. This indicates that jujube has several chemical constituents and beneficially affects multiple organs and tissues. These properties include antioxidant, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective activities. It also has health-promoting effects, including anti-aging properties.