A Review on the Biology, Uses and Therapeutic Effects of Salicornia

Background and Objective: Salicornia spp., a halophytic plant capable of thriving in saline soils and coastal regions, has recently attracted attention as a sustainable source of edible oils, forage, and bioactive compounds. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the agronomic practices, processing, and medicinal properties of Salicornia. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Keywords included Salicornia, halophyte oilseed, cultivation, phytochemicals, and medicinal properties from 2010 to 2025. Only peer-reviewed articles with DOI were included. Results: S. bigelovii and S. europaea are most suitable for seed oil production, whereas S. persica and S. iranica are preferable for biomass harvesting. Seed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acids. Stems and seeds contain significant phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Salicornia cultivation in arid, saline climates is feasible using saline water up to 40 dS/m without yield reduction. Processing methods include drying, cold oil extraction, and incorporation of plant powder into functional foods. Conclusion: Salicornia holds significant potential for sustainable agriculture in saline lands and can serve as a valuable source of oil, medicinal compounds, and functional food ingredients.