Abstract
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a subtropical fruit tree with high medicinal value native to China. Different organs of loquat have been used historically as folk medicines and this has been recorded in Chinese history for thousands of years. Research shows that loquat extracts contain many antioxidants, and different extracts exhibit bioactivity capable of counteracting inflammation, diabetes, cancer, bacterial infection, aging, pain, allergy and other health issues. Bioactive compounds such as phenolics and terpenoids have been isolated and characterized to provide a better understanding of the chemical mechanisms underlying the biological activities of loquat extracts. As the identification of compounds progresses, studies investigating the in vivo metabolism, bioavailability, and structure–activity relationships, as well as potential toxicity of loquat extracts in animal or cell models are receiving more attention. In addition, genetic studies and breeding of loquat germplasms for high contents of health-benefiting compounds may provide new insight for the loquat industry and research. This review is focused on the main medicinal properties reported and the possible pharmaceutically active compounds identified in different loquat extracts.
Highlights
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a subtropical evergreen fruit tree originating in southeastern China
Loquat extracts have been used for the treatment of cough, chronic bronchitis (CB), inflammation, diabetes, and cancer in Chinese folk medicine
A range of bioactivities has been reported for different loquat extracts, a number of bioactive compounds have been identified, and active research is continuing
Summary
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a subtropical evergreen fruit tree originating in southeastern China. It has been cultivated for more than 2000 years in China and is commercially cultivated in more than 30 countries worldwide, including Japan, Turkey, Brazil, Spain, India, Pakistan, Israel, and Italy. Loquat extracts have been used for the treatment of cough, chronic bronchitis (CB), inflammation, diabetes, and cancer in Chinese folk medicine. Ancient literature, such as the ‘Compendium of Materia Medica’ [2], described the origin, classification, breeding methods, and medicinal value of the loquat tree, and laid the foundation for the development and cultivation of loquat. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the current research on the health-promoting effect of loquat extracts, the reported biological activities as well as the key bioactive compounds are summarized in the present review
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call