Exploring the Therapeutic Value of Some Vegetative Parts of Rubus and Prunus: A Literature Review on Bioactive Profiles and Their Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Interest

Abstract

The resulting plant waste from R. idaeus, P. serotina, P. avium, and P. cerasus exhibits a complex chemical composition, depending on the variety from which it originates, with applications in multiple fields such as the food, pharmaceutical or dermato-cosmetic industry due to the presence of phytochemical compounds such as flavonoids, flavonols, tannins, cyanogenic glycosides, vitamins, aldehyde, and phenolic acids. The aim of this review was to summarize and analyze the most recent and significant data from literature on the importance of plant waste resulting from the pruning process of trees and shrubs, in the context of applying circular economy principles, with a focus on the pharmacological importance (antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antiviral, and antitumoral) of some bioactive compounds identified in these species. Their applicability in various industries is closely linked to both the bioavailability of the final products and the study of their toxicity. The literature indicates that the isolation of these compounds can be carried out using conventional or modern methods, the last ones being favored due to the increased efficiency of the processes, as well as from the perspective of environmental protection. This review increases the attention and perspective of using plant waste as a linked source of pharmaceutical and dermato-cosmetic agents.

Keywords: biological activity; extraction; phytochemicals; plant waste; synergistic effect.

Figure 1

The distribution of articles by species published between 2010 and 2025.

Figure 2

The chemical structures of the representative bioactive compounds from Prunus and Rubus woody biomass with health benefits.

Figure 3

Pharmacological and pro-health importance of several common compounds identified in Rubus and Prunus species.