Phytochemical Study and Biological Activities of Arbutus unedo L.

Abstract

The strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) is a shrub (small tree) with evergreen leaves of the Ericaceae and is a main constituent of the flora of the Mediterranean basin. An increasing interest in the use of the strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) has recently been reported in the industrial, pharmaceutical, and chemical fields. Indeed, some research on the fruits of Arbutus unedo has revealed the presence of several compounds, including large amounts of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, minerals, polyphenols, and flavonoids. In addition, the secondary metabolite profile of arbutus extracts includes a matrix rich in polyphenols, which is responsible for several biological activity and health attributes, namely antiseptic, diuretic, and laxative effects, and also to treat cardiovascular pathologies such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and thrombosis.