Introduction
Metabolic dysfunction-associated diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome, represent a major global health burden. These conditions are interrelated and primarily driven by insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, and disturbed lipid metabolism. Current management strategies focus on lifestyle modification and pharmacological interventions; however, interest in plant-based therapeutics that act on multiple metabolic pathways is steadily increasing.
The caper bush (Capparis spinosa L.) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Mediterranean for metabolic and inflammatory disorders. Modern pharmacological studies suggest that its rich phytochemical profile may offer multi-targeted benefits in metabolic dysfunction-associated diseases.1
Mechanisms of therapeutic action
Regulation of glucose metabolism:
Caper bush bioactive compounds are associated with improved glucose utilization and regulation of carbohydrate metabolism. They may enhance peripheral glucose uptake and support better glycemic control, which is crucial in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Improvement of insulin sensitivity:
Insulin resistance is a central pathological feature of metabolic dysfunction-associated diseases. Phytochemicals in Capparis spinosa may improve insulin receptor signaling and reduce metabolic stress, thereby enhancing cellular responsiveness to insulin and promoting glucose homeostasis.2
Modulation of lipid metabolism:
Dyslipidemia is commonly associated with metabolic dysfunction. Caper extracts may help regulate hepatic lipid synthesis and breakdown, leading to improved lipid profiles, including reduced triglycerides and LDL cholesterol and better lipid utilization. This supports cardiovascular and hepatic health.
Antioxidant activity:
Oxidative stress plays a key role in the progression of metabolic diseases. The polyphenols present in caper bush neutralize reactive oxygen species and reduce lipid peroxidation. This protective effect helps preserve hepatocyte, endothelial, and adipocyte function.
Anti-inflammatory effects:
Chronic low-grade inflammation contributes significantly to metabolic dysfunction. Capparis spinosa exhibits anti-inflammatory activity by downregulating pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB signaling pathways. This helps reduce systemic inflammation and improves metabolic regulation.3
Gut–metabolic axis modulation:
Emerging evidence suggests that caper bush may influence gut microbiota composition. Improved microbial balance enhances short-chain fatty acid production, reduces intestinal permeability, and decreases endotoxemia. These effects contribute to better glucose and lipid metabolism through gut–liver and gut–adipose axis regulation.
Therapeutic applications:
Based on its pharmacological properties, Capparis spinosa may have potential benefits in:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Obesity and overweight conditions
- Dyslipidemia
- Metabolic syndrome
- Insulin resistance
Its multi-targeted mechanisms make it a promising adjunct in integrative metabolic therapy approaches.
Conclusion
Caper bush (Capparis spinosa) demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in metabolic dysfunction-associated diseases due to its ability to regulate glucose metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, modulate lipid profiles, and reduce oxidative and inflammatory stress.4 Its multi-targeted actions make it a promising natural candidate for supporting metabolic health. Further clinical validation is necessary to translate these findings into standardized therapeutic applications.
- Sun Y, Yang T, Wang C. Capparis spinosa L. as a potential source of nutrition and its health benefits in foods: A comprehensive review of its phytochemistry, bioactivities, safety, and application. Food Chem. 2023;409:135258. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.135258 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36587515/
- Yousefi E, Abedi M, Aghajanzadeh TA, Moreno DA. Caper bush (Capparis spinosa L.) bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity as affected by adaptation to harsh soils. Sci Rep. 2025;15(1):11893. Published 2025 Apr 7. doi:10.1038/s41598-025-97298-4 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11977014/
- Zhang H, Ma ZF. Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Capparis spinosa as a Medicinal Plant. Nutrients. 2018;10(2):116. Published 2018 Jan 24. doi:10.3390/nu10020116 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5852692/
- Gauttam VK, Munjal K, Chopra H, Ahmad A, Rana MK, Kamal MA. A Mechanistic Review on Therapeutic Potential of Medicinal Plants and their Pharmacologically Active Molecules for Targeting Metabolic Syndrome. Curr Pharm Des. 2024;30(1):10-30. doi:10.2174/0113816128274446231220113957 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38155468/