Beyond Essential Oils: Diterpenes, Lignans, and Biflavonoids from <i>Juniperus communis</i> L. as a Source of Multi-Target Lead Compounds

Abstract

Common Juniper (Juniperus communis L.) is a gymnosperm that stands out through its fleshy, spherical female cones, often termed simply “berries”. The cone berries and various vegetative parts (leaves, twigs and even roots) are used in traditional phytotherapy, based on the beneficial effects exerted by a variety of secondary metabolites. While the volatile compounds of Juniperus communis are known for their aromatic properties and have been well-researched for their antimicrobial effects, this review shifts focus to non-volatile secondary metabolites—specifically diterpenes, lignans, and biflavonoids. These compounds are of significant biomedical interest due to their notable pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. The aim of this review is to offer an up-to-date account of chemical composition of Juniperus communis and related species, with a primary emphasis on the bioactivities of diterpenes, lignans, and biflavonoids. By examining recent preclinical and clinical data, this work assesses the therapeutic potential of these metabolites and their mechanisms of action, underscoring their value in developing new therapeutic options. Additionally, this review addresses the pharmacological efficacy and possible therapeutic applications of Juniperus communis in treating various human diseases, thus supporting its potential role in evidence-based phytotherapy.

Keywords

• <i>Juniperus communis</i>
• non-volatile metabolites
• totarol
• ferruginol
• sugiol
• scaffold