The Zygophyllaceae family, or caltrop family, includes around 240 species in 22
genera, thriving primarily in dry and hot climates, including deserts and saline
environments. These plants are characterized by shrubby or herbaceous forms
with opposite or spirally arranged leaves, sometimes spiny or fleshy. Their
flowers feature four or five separate petals and sepals, typically with eight to ten
stamens. While some species have medicinal uses, culinary contributions are
limited. Some members contain nutritional compounds such as steroidal saponins,
flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, etc. (Sheahan 2007).
