Abstract

Ziziphus jujube Mill. fruit is belonging to the Rhamnaceous family which grows mostly in Europe, southern and eastern Asia and Australia, especially the northern China. Jujube has a long history of usage as a fruit and remedy. The main active constituents are vitamin C, phenolics, flavonoids, triterpenic acids, and polysaccharides. This plant possesses multiple medicinal activities such as antifertility, antimicrobial and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulating, anti-diabetic, hypoglycaemic, sedative and hypnotic, analgesic and haemagglutination properties. In traditional medicine, jujube is used for treatment of liver diseases, insomnia and anxiety. A stronger focus on clinical studies and phytochemical definition of jujube fruits will be essential for future research efforts. This review may be useful for predicting other medicinal uses and potential drug or food interactions and may be beneficial for people living where the jujube fruits are prevalent and health care resources are scarce.