Capparis L. (Capparaceae): A Scoping Review of Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology and Pharmacological Activates

Capers (Capparis L.), a genus of shrub-like plants within the family Capparaceae, exhibit remarkable ecological adaptability and have long been used in traditional medicine, food, and agroforestry. Phytochemical investigations have identified a wide array of bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, alkaloids, glucosinolates, spermidine derivatives, and other unique secondary metabolites—particularly in species such as C. spinosa and C. decidua. Pharmacological studies have reported diverse biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidant effects. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the genus, with particular attention to its botanical characteristics, ethnomedicinal relevance, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological potential.