Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology, of Capparis spinosa L: A Review
Rahal El Kahkahi*, Meryama Moustaine and Rachid Zouhair
ABSTRACT
Background: Caper is an aromatic, medicinal, spontaneous plant and largely widespread in North Africa. It belongs to the family of Capparidacées and to the Capparis genus; it contains more than 350 species, used for various ends (food, medicine, ornamentation and cosmetic).
Objective: This review is conducted to summarize the pharmacological effect of plant Capparis spinosa, and main active phytochemical composition.
Methods: A narrative review article was conducted by researching several relevant search engines such as Google scholar, PubMed, ResearchGate, Scopus, BASE search by using Several Keywords related to Capparis spinosa. The analysis focused on studies reporting identified compounds and their biological effects.
Result: Capparis spinosa contained many biologically active chemicals groups including alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids, carbohydrates, saponins and wide range of minerals and trace elements.
Conclusion: Capparis spinosa has several pharmacological qualities and a rich phytochemical profile, making it a valuable medicinal plant. Its many therapeutic benefits justify its continued use in conventional medicine and stimulate more clinical and pharmacological research.
