PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF CAPERS (CAPPARIS SPINOSA L) IN MEDICINE

Аннотация

Каперсы (Capparis spinosaL), широко известныекак каперсы илисокращенно каперсы, являются популярным многолетним растением. В данной статье представлена информация о его лечебных, экологических, промышленных свойствах и использовании в пищу. В статье рассказывается о распространении, ботанических свойствах, использовании этого чудесного растения, а также о биотехнологии мази, приготовленной израстения. Keywords: distribution, medicinal properties, food, industrial use, protection and problems, cosmetics Ключевые слова: распространение, лечебные свойства, продукты питания, промышленноеиспользование,защитаи проблемы,косметика. Botanical Characteristics and Morphology Capparis spinosa L. belongs to the Capparaceae family and is a semi-shrub with creeping stems and branches. The leaves are ovate, while the flowers are large, white, or pale pink. Its fruit is fleshy, red, and contains multiple seeds. This plant primarily grows in deserts, foothills, roadsides, on walls, and between cultivated fields. The seeds mature in July-August.[1]Capparis spinosa thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly in the Mediterranean Basin, Central Asia, North Africa, and some parts of Australia. Its adaptability to harsh environments, including rocky soils, cliffs, and desert landscapes, makes it a crucial plant for dry climates. It also grows well inalkaline and salinesoils, with itsdeep root system helping prevent soilerosion. This plant is commonly found in Mediterranean regions, where its edible flower buds (capers) and fruits (caper berries) are highly valued. Beyond its culinary significance, Capparis spinosa has deep roots in traditional medicine and ecological landscaping.[1]Due to its economic value and adaptability, it is also cultivated extensively in Southern Europe, North Africa, and the MiddleEast. Additionally, it has been naturalized in regions likeIndia and California. Botanical Features and Morphology Capparis spinosa L. is a perennial plant with trailing or climbing stems that can grow up to 1-1.5 meters. It is characterized by: page1717 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ISSN:2692-5206,ImpactFactor:12,23 AmericanAcademicpublishers,volume05,issue03,2025 Journal: https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai Leaves: Thick, round, orovate leaves covered with awaxylayer that reduces water loss. Flowers: Large, striking flowers with petals ranging from white to pink and long purple stamens thatbloom in summer. Fruits: Elongated, fleshy caper berries containing multipleseeds. Biotechnology of Caper OintmentPreparation Dried capers, whencrushed and mixedwith water, are beneficial forhemorrhoids. Ointmentfor Hernia and Joint Pain Biotechnological preparation stages: To prepare theointment,thefollowing ingredients are required: 25gcaper root powder,25 gash,1 tablespoon St. John's wort oil ,10gmagnesium sulfate(MgSO4),Water (H2O) addedgradually to form a paste The mixture is applied to the affected area using stretch film and left for 20 minutes before washing off. For first-time users, the ointment should be applied three times, then once a month thereafter. After application, petroleum jelly or oil should be applied to prevent skin dryness. Thisointment is highly effective forhernias in theback and neck, as well as jointpain. Treatment forHemorrhoids Leech therapy is also highly beneficial for individualssuffering from hemorrhoids.[7] 1-picture.The flower ofcapparis spinosaL. 2-picture.The fruit ofcapparis spinosaL. Capers (Capparis spinosa)and Their Uses The long, pigment-containing part inside the Capparis spinosa flower can be collected, crushed, andmixed with water tohelp treat hemorrhoids. CulinaryApplications page1718 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ISSN:2692-5206,ImpactFactor:12,23 AmericanAcademicpublishers,volume05,issue03,2025 Journal: https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai In the food industry, the flower buds of Capparis spinosa are pickled and have become an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine. Their sour and salty taste enhances salads, pasta, pizza, andsauces. The fruit, known as caperberries, is also pickled and consumed as asnack. Capers contain saponins, alkaloids, 32.9% carbohydrates, 150mg ofascorbicacid, and 3.75% oil. Thealkaloid stachydrine has been identified in its root barkand itsfruit.[2](2-picture) Industrial and Ecological Applications Cosmetics: Capparis spinosa extract is used in skincare products for its antioxidant and moisturizingproperties. Erosion Prevention: Due to its strong root system, this plant is frequently used in reforestation andsoilstabilization projects. Medicinal andTherapeutic Properties Historically, Capparis spinosa has been widely used in traditional medicine due to its healing properties. It contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and glucosinolates, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, andantimicrobial effects.[3] It isused fortreating: Digestivedisorders Relieffrom