Zanthoxylum armatum DC

Zanthoxylum armatum DC, commonly known as the “Nepalese pepper” or “Timur”, is a versatile plant species, widely distributed globally, in the tropical and temperate belt regions. Owing to its rich phytochemical composition (alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, lignin, coumarins, glycosides, steroids, fatty acids, and amino acids) and diverse pharmacological activities, it holds importance in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Chelerythrine, a benzophenanthridine alkaloid, is particularly notable for its pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and cytotoxic effects. Due to its inhibitory effects on keratinocyte growth, it exerts soothing effects on the skin. Fruit extracts have phytotoxicity. Further research is warranted to study the mechanisms of actions and optimize its therapeutic potential for the development of novel pharmaceuticals and herbal formulations based on traditional knowledge. This review comprehensively summarizes the anatomical, morphological characteristics, ethnobotanical uses and biological activities of Zanthoxylum armatum.