Phytochemical Properties and Biological Activities of Elaeagnus Species
Summary
Elaeagnus species are rich sources of diverse phytochemicals, including polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, terpenoids and phytosterols. Fruits, leaves and bark yield high levels of antioxidants such as vitamin C, phenolic acids and essential oils, while polysaccharide fractions exhibit free-radical scavenging activity. Monoterpenes and other volatile compounds contribute to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, and isolated triterpenoids and coumaroyl derivatives display cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. Enzyme-inhibitory properties against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase underpin antidiabetic and skin-care applications. Preclinical studies in streptozotocin-induced diabetic models have demonstrated glycaemic control, lipid-profile modulation and protection of hepatic and renal functions. Formulation research explores oil-in-gel systems and immobilisation techniques to enhance stability and targeted delivery of Elaeagnus extracts. The global significance of these shrubs lies in their dual role as traditional remedies and modern nutraceuticals, offering sustainable sources of health-promoting compounds for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.
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Phytochemical Properties and Biological Activities of Elaeagnus Species publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in phytochemical properties and biological activities of elaeagnus species across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Polyphenols: Plant secondary metabolites with multiple phenolic rings that confer antioxidant properties by neutralising free radicals.
Flavonoids: A subclass of polyphenols characterised by a C6–C3–C6 structure, known for anti-inflammatory and vascular-protective activities.
Anthocyanins: Water-soluble pigments in the flavonoid family responsible for red, purple and blue hues and potent antioxidative effects.
α-Glucosidase: A digestive enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into glucose; its inhibition can moderate postprandial blood sugar levels.
Tyrosinase: A key enzyme in melanin synthesis; inhibitors are used to prevent hyperpigmentation and as cosmetic skin-lightening agents.
References
- Elaeagnus umbellata: A miraculous shrub with potent health-promoting benefits from Northwest Himalaya. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences (2023).
- Novel formulation of oleaster bark (Elaeagnus angustifolia) extract-oil-emulsion gel immobilized into coconut shell hydrochar. Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery (2025).
- Phytochemical analysis and antidiabetic potential of Elaeagnus umbellata (Thunb.) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: pharmacological and computational approach. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (2018).
- Chemical composition, in vitro antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antidiabetic potential of essential oil of Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (2021).
- Free radical scavenging activity, phytochemical composition and nutrient analysis of Elaeagnus umbellata berry. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research (2012).
- Structural Characterization and Antioxidant Activities of Polysaccharides Extracted from the Pulp of Elaeagnus angustifolia L.. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2014).
- Studies on Cytotoxic Constituents from the Leaves of Elaeagnus oldhamii Maxim. in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer A549 Cells. Molecules (2014).
- Phytocomplex Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Powdered Fruits and Leaves from Elaeagnus angustifolia. Molecules (2020).
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