Extraction, purification, structural characterization, bioactivities, and applications of polysaccharides from Ziziphus jujube: a review

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is a traditional medicinal and edible plant with high nutritional value and a long history of use. Polysaccharides extracted from jujube are considered important bioactive components due to their high abundance and potent biological activities, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and gut microbiota-regulating effects. In response to the growing interest in plant polysaccharides, this review summarizes the structural characteristics, extraction and purification methods, structural characterization techniques, and practical applications of jujube polysaccharides in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. In particular, the structural relationships, activity, and underlying biological mechanisms of jujube polysaccharides are highlighted. Moreover, current research trends and application prospects are discussed to provide insights for future investigations into jujube polysaccharides. This review aims to serve as a reference for the comprehensive exploration and application of jujube polysaccharides, thereby promoting the high-quality development of the jujube industry.