Phytochemical Study and Biological Activities of Ceratonia siliqua L.

The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) belongs to the legume family and is mainly cultivated in the Mediterranean. Ceratonia siliqua L. is a medicinal plant used in traditional Algerian medicine. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, and pharmacological activities of Ceratonia siliqua. Indeed, certain studies and research on pods and leaves of carob have revealed the presence of a number of compounds, including large amounts of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, minerals, polyphenols, flavonoids, and low amounts of protein and lipids. The secondary metabolite profile of carob extracts includes a matrix rich in polyphenols which is responsible for several biological effects and health attributes, namely, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiulcer, anticonstipation, and antihyperlipidemic activities. So we finally concluded that carob had beneficial preventive and therapeutic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]