Chemical constituents and biological activities of Zanthoxylum limonella (Rutaceae): A review

Abstract

Zanthoxylum limonella belongs to the family of aromatic deciduous trees and shrubs, Rutaceae. In traditional medicine practice, various parts of Z. limonella are used for the treatment of dental caries, febrifugal, sudorific, rheumatism, diuretic, stomach ache and diarrhea. Secondary metabolites have been isolated the stems, stem barks, and fruits. The plant contains alkaloid, amide, lignin, coumarin and terpenoid compounds. The extracts of the various parts, essential oil from the fruits and some pure compounds of Z. limonella have been found to have biological activities, for example, mosquito repellent and mosquito larvicidal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumour properties. This review compiles some scientific information on botanical description, traditional uses, phytochemical constituents and biological activities of Z. limonella. © Pharmacotherapy Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, 300001 Nigeria. All rights reserved.