Review of the botany, traditional uses, pharmacology, threats and conservation of Zanthoxylum armatum (Rutaceae)

Zanthoxylum armatum has fascinated the botanical world due to its significance as the 'toothache relieving tree'. The high medical value of the species has raised concern for its long-term sustainability. The genus Zanthoxylum is represented by 225 species, distributed throughout the globe. Among others, Z. armatum is a high-value species, facing threats due to destructive harvesting and constraints in its reproduction. This study reviews botany, traditional uses, pharmacology, threats, and offers suggestions for the sustainable utilization of the species. Findings indicate that the pharmaceutical potential of the species is well explored and reproductive constraints are well recognized. Overharvesting is a major threat to its existing populations. Viable cultivation methods and sustainable harvesting techniques are urgently needed for its conservation and sustainable utilization.