This literature review examines the pharmacological effects of jujube, a plant native to China, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. Jujube contains various active components such as polysaccharides, phenols, and triterpene acids, which exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, including neuroprotection, cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, and gastrointestinal protection. The review statistically evaluates the research status of jujube over the past two decades and provides an exhaustive explication of its pharmacological efficacy and molecular mechanisms. It highlights the need for further research on the structure-activity relationship of active components, toxicological studies, and clinical trials to enhance the application of jujube in medicine and healthcare. The review also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between jujube and sour jujube (Z. jujuba var. spinosa) due to their different medicinal parts and effects. Overall, the review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of jujube's mechanisms and optimal utilization, paving the way for its practical applications in the medical and healthcare fields.This literature review examines the pharmacological effects of jujube, a plant native to China, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. Jujube contains various active components such as polysaccharides, phenols, and triterpene acids, which exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, including neuroprotection, cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, and gastrointestinal protection. The review statistically evaluates the research status of jujube over the past two decades and provides an exhaustive explication of its pharmacological efficacy and molecular mechanisms. It highlights the need for further research on the structure-activity relationship of active components, toxicological studies, and clinical trials to enhance the application of jujube in medicine and healthcare. The review also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between jujube and sour jujube (Z. jujuba var. spinosa) due to their different medicinal parts and effects. Overall, the review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of jujube's mechanisms and optimal utilization, paving the way for its practical applications in the medical and healthcare fields.