Phytochemical diversity and pharmacological effects of triterpenes from genus Ziziphus: a comprehensive review

Abstract The genus Ziziphus is cultivated worldwide mostly for its medicinal purposes aside from its edible fruits due to its diverse phytochemicals. The genus is grown in several world locations to encompass mainly Z. jujuba, Z. xylopyrus , Z. spina-christi , Z. lotus , Z. mauritiana , Z. celata, etc. Folk medicinal uses reported in genus Ziziphus include treating headaches, obesity, common colds, diabetes, hypertension, and infections. Scientific reports published till 2022 on Ziziphus phytochemistry and biological activities are discussed in this review, emphasizing the last 10 years to include a variety of phytochemicals, viz. alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and saponins. Terpenoids and saponins are ubiquitous in the genus Ziziphus, and to account for many of its health benefits. Consequently, this study focused on these two phytoconstituent classes never reviewed before in literature. Reported effects for Ziziphus triterpenes included antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory agents. This study presents an up-to-date review of the phytochemistry and biological activities of all Ziziphus species, with recapitulation on triterpenoids/saponins for utilization as therapeutic agents.