Medlar (Mespilus germanica) is an exotic plant native to Central Asia and the southern slopes of the Caucasus, which was introduced to Europe during the Roman Empire. In its native habitats, it exists in both wild and cultivated forms. The plant is distinguished by its large, bright green leaves, white flowers, and unique fruit, making it a popular ornamental choice in botanical gardens and parks throughout Western Europe. The flowers typically bloom from late May to early June, and the fruit, which resembles an apple or an elongated pear, is suitable for human consumption. In the Caucasus region, the leaves, fruit, and bark of the medlar plant play a significant role in traditional folk medicine. It is cultivated in Italy, the Balkans, and in the Dobruja region of Romania, where it also grows spontaneously in the wild. The fruit, which weighs between 20 and 60 grams, is commonly used to produce jam, wine, jelly, and juice. Additionally, the leaves, bark, and fruit of the plant are recognized for their rich content of bioactive substances. Since the 2000s, the medlar plant has attracted considerable interest from researchers, with ongoing investigations into its active compounds and pharmacological properties. This study aims to present a literature review, highlighting that both the leaves and fruit are abundant in polyphenols, flavonoids, organic acids, minerals, and vitamin C. In the near future, the medlar fruit may emerge as a valuable raw material for the food and pharmaceutical industries, with the active substances extracted from its fruit and leaves potentially serving as significant resources in pharmaceutical applications.
