Ziziphus nummularia

HABIT: Ziziphus nummularia, is a deciduous shrub or small tree. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 5 meters (3 to 16 feet). The plant has a spreading and bushy habit with multiple branches that often have thorns or spines. The leaves are small, alternate, and elliptical to ovate in shape, with a glossy green surface. Ziziphus nummularia produces small yellow or reddish-brown fruits that are round or oblong in shape, containing a sweet and edible flesh. The shrub is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid regions, commonly found in dry, sandy, and rocky areas of India, Pakistan, and other parts of South Asia.

CONSERVATION STATUS: Not evaluated. 

MEDICINAL USES: Phytochemical and pharmacological investigations conducted on Ziziphus nummularia have demonstrated its potential as a valuable source of new compounds with diverse applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The plant's antimicrobial, antifungal, and anthelminthic properties indicate its potential as a natural food preservative. Additionally, its antioxidant and antidiabetic properties make it a promising source for developing agents that offer antiobesogenic and metabolic benefits. These findings suggest that Ziziphus nummularia holds promise as a rich source of bioactive compounds with broad-ranging applications in various industries (Mesmar, J., Abdallah, R., Badran, A., Maresca, M., Shaito, A., & Baydoun, E. (2022). Ziziphus nummularia: A Comprehensive Review of Its Phytochemical Constituents and Pharmacological Properties. Molecules, 27(13), 4240.).

ETHNOBOTANICAL USES: Ziziphus nummularia, has various specific ethnobotanical uses. Its fruits are consumed fresh or dried and used in culinary preparations. The plant's leaves and branches serve as fodder for livestock, contributing to their dietary needs. Ziziphus nummularia is occasionally grown as an ornamental plant, adding visual appeal to gardens and landscapes. Additionally, the wood of the plant is utilized as a source of fuel and timber.