Abstract

A REVIEW ON THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF ZIZIPHUS JUJUBA

S. Rubini*, P. Edimurasu, V. Elumalai, S. Girija, G. Gokul

Abstract

Ziziphus jujuba, commonly known as jujube or red date, is a deciduous fruit-bearing tree belonging to the family Rhamnaceae. Native to South and East Asia, it is well adapted to arid and semi-arid climates due to its deep root system and high drought tolerance. The plant typically grows 5–12 meters tall, featuring a spreading canopy, thorny branches, and small, glossy green leaves with three distinct veins. Its tiny yellowishgreen flowers bloom in clusters and are rich in nectar, attracting pollinators. The fruit is an oval drupe that transitions from green to reddish-brown as it ripens. Fresh jujube fruits have a crisp texture and sweet taste similar to apples, while dried fruits resemble dates in flavor and appearance. The plant is valued not only for nutrition but also for traditional medicinal uses, as the fruits are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, flavonoids, and minerals. Various parts of the plant, including fruits, seeds, and bark, are used in herbal preparations believed to support immunity, digestion, and sleep quality. Because of its resilience, low maintenance requirements, and economic importance, Ziziphus jujuba is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, contributing to food security, traditional medicine, and sustainable agriculture. The therapeutic activity of Ziziphus jujuba has made a potential and alternative effect to the actions for the health related disorders by using herbal remidies.

Keywords: Red date, Rhamnaceae, thorny branches, ziziphus jujuba, Southa and east Aisa, traditional medicine.