ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Environmental and Biological Evaluation
of Ziziphus spina-christi Aqueous
Extracts: Phytochemical, Antioxidant,
and Cytotoxic Perspectives
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King Saud University, College of Science, Zoology Department, P.O. Box 2455, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Submission date: 2025-10-04
Final revision date: 2026-01-19
Acceptance date: 2026-01-27
Online publication date: 2026-02-26
Corresponding author
Aiman Ammari
King Saud University, College of Science, Zoology Department, P.O. Box.2455 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 11451., Saudi Arabia
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ABSTRACT
Ziziphus spina-christi, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine, is known for
its rich phytochemical composition and diverse therapeutic properties. This study investigates
the phytochemical profile, antioxidant activity, and cytotoxic effects of the aqueous extract of
Z. spina-christi. Phytochemical analysis revealed high concentrations of phenolics
(105.48±0.42 GAE/g), tannins (99.02±0.45 GAE/g), flavonoids (32.39±0.15 QE/g), and flavonols
(24.10±0.21 QE/g), indicative of its bioactive potential. Antioxidant assays demonstrated significant
free radical scavenging activity, with IC₅₀ values of 15.11±2.31 μg/mL (DPPH) and 18.30±0.11 μg/mL
(ABTS). Cytotoxicity testing against Caco-2 cells showed moderate inhibitory effects with an IC₅₀
of 209.245±8.32 μg/mL, suggesting potential anticancer activity. UV-vis and zeta potential analyses
supported the stability and presence of phenolic compounds, while the IR spectrum highlighted hydroxyl
and carbonyl functional groups. A comparative discussion with previous studies revealed variations in
bioactivities based on dosage, duration, and extraction methods, emphasizing the dual nature of the
plant as both a therapeutic agent and a potential toxicant at higher doses. These findings reinforce the
promise of Z. spina-christi as a source of natural antioxidants and cytotoxic agents while underscoring
the need for rigorous safety assessments for its clinical use.