Recent Advances on the Chemical Compositions, Biological Activities, and Applications of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen: From Traditional Treasures to Modern Medical Stars

INTRODUCTION: As sleep disorders and mental stress become increasingly prevalent, public demand for functional foods and health products that improve sleep quality and alleviate insomnia continue to rise. Accordingly, it is necessary to explore natural plants rich in sleep-modulating bioactive substances. Ziziphi spinosae semen (ZSS), the dried mature seed of Ziziphus jujuba Mill., is a well-known medicinal and edible material with sedative and hypnotic effects. It can be processed into various food products and serves as raw material for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The chemical constituents of ZSS, including fatty oils, saponins, and flavonoids, contribute to its sedative, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, ZSS boasts promising application prospects in the medicinal and food industries. METHODS: Relevant literature was retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science. Data about chemical constituents, pharmacological effects, and product development of ZSS were systematically collected and analyzed. RESULTS: This review summarizes the chemical compositions and pharmacological activities of ZSS, and presents the latest progress in its product application. CONCLUSIONS: ZSS possesses abundant bioactive compounds and exerts prominent pharmacological activities. It holds great value in chronic disease prevention and treatment, and has been developed into various functional products. Further research is required to realize intensive and rational utilization of ZSS resources.