Applications of Prickly Ash (Zanthoxylum spp.): Potential in Traditional Science, Modern Science, and Agriculture

Abstract

Plants have been recognized globally for their valuable contributions as sources of sustenance and medicinal remedies in the treatment of diverse medical conditions. Secondary metabolites derived from plants are known to have a substantial impact on both toxicity and health benefits. Zanthoxylum spp. is one such example of deciduous shrubs that exhibits these properties in Rutaceae family, with around 250 different species. Zanthoxylum spp. demonstrates a diverse range of biological activities due to its widespread distribution and plentiful bioactive substances, such as terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, hence augmenting their significance in therapeutics as well as insecticidal characteristics such as larvicidal, repellent, and anti-feedant effects. In addition to its medicinal properties, Zan-thoxylum spp. is widely utilized as a spice in various worldwide culinary traditions. These plants possess substantial ethno-pharmacological importance and serve as crucial components in both traditional and modern healthcare systems, effectively managing several illnesses including heart disease, cancer, liver disorders, etc. The decrease in agricultural productivity resulting from the detrimental impacts of insects, weeds, and other similar factors has prompted the extensive adoption of chemicals to counteract these challenges. However, the use of these synthetic compounds has been linked to have negative consequences on both the environment and human health. An extensive literature survey was conducted to present a comprehensive examination on the feasibility of utilizing botanical products obtained from Zanthoxylum spp. as environmentally sustainable alternatives. The objective of this review paper is to promote further investigations into the utilization of Zanthoxylum spp. and their chemical constituents as reliable and effective pesticide solutions, with the aim of mitigating the detrimental effects of synthetic pesticides on human health and the environment.