Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Traditional Medicine Applications of Juniperus sabina L.: A Comprehensive Overview.

Juniperus sabina L., a species within the Juniperus genus, is broadly distributed across Southern Europe and Central Asia. In China, its berries, branches, and leaves are traditionally employed in Uyghur medicine to address conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, itchy skin, tinnitus, deafness, and urinary discomfort. Notably, the plant's primary bioactive constituents are terpenoids, lignans, and flavonoids. Contemporary pharmacological studies have revealed that J. sabina exhibits a range of bioactivities, including insecticidal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects. These diverse therapeutic properties can be attributed to its rich chemical profile, which comprises 279 distinct compounds such as terpenoids, lignans, flavonoids, coumarins, and others, isolated to date. This comprehensive review systematically organizes and summarizes the botanical characteristics, traditional uses, chemical composition, pharmacological activities, toxicity, limitations, and future prospects of J. sabina. It aims to offer a valuable scientific reference and fresh perspectives for further research, development, and application of this plant.