Capparis tomentosa
Capparis tomentosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Capparis tomentosa is a botanical species known for its diverse range of medicinal activities, including cardiotonic, emmenagogue, insectifuge, and lactagogue properties. The plant's therapeutic potential is primarily derived from its leaves, which are commonly utilized in the form of dry leaf preparations. While offering various biological benefits, it is important to note that the plant contains heavy metals such as arsenic, chromium, lead, and nickel. Researchers and practitioners must carefully consider these chemical constituents when evaluating its traditional uses. Understanding the relationship between its medicinal efficacy and its chemical composition is essential for its safe application.
- Synonyms
- Capparis Subtomentosa · Capparis Tomentosa Var. Persicifolia · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Capparaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Capparis tomentosa is a versatile plant recognized by a variety of distinctive regional names. It is widely known by its common English titles, the African caper and the Cape Bush. Depending on the local culture, it is also referred to as Chikatavuwa. Other traditional names used to identify this species include Ekorokorait and Gombor Lik. These diverse monikers highlight the plant's broad presence across different linguistic landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Capparis tomentosa is a botanical species known to be identified by several different scientific names throughout history. It is frequently recognized by its synonym Capparis alexandrae in various taxonomic records. Furthermore, the plant has been classified under the names Capparis biloba and Capparis corymbifera. Other botanical literature may also refer to this species as Capparis globifera. Finally, it is documented under the synonym Capparis hypericoides, reflecting the complex nomenclature surrounding its classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Capparis tomentosa belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, showcasing the vast complexity of the botanical world. Within this realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the fundamental vascular structures. It further descends through the order Brassicales, a grouping that connects it to various significant plant lineages. As a member of the family Capparaceae, it shares distinct evolutionary traits with its close relatives. Finally, this species is firmly established within the genus Capparis, defining its specific biological identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Capparaceae |
| Genus | Capparis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Capparis tomentosa is a notable plant species with a widespread distribution across various regions of the African continent. It can be found throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically within the territories of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant's reach also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it inhabits parts of Chad. Furthermore, its presence is recorded in the country of Eritrea, demonstrating its adaptability to these diverse environments. This geographic spread highlights the significant role the species plays within these specific African ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Capparis tomentosa is a distinctive plant characterized by its shrub-like growth form. It possesses an obligatory climbing habit, allowing it to ascend through its surrounding environment. Depending on its developmental stage and support, the plant can reach a minimum height of 1 meter. In many instances, it matures to a more substantial size of at least 6.5 meters. Ultimately, this resilient species can reach a maximum height of up to 15 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Capparis tomentosa is utilized in Ethiopian traditional medicine as one of the species used to treat evil eye illnesses. However, the plant also exhibits toxic effects in sheep and calves, where consumption leads to a decrease in the levels of total protein and calcium in the serum. These toxicological effects are accompanied by clinical signs such as inappetence in the affected animals. Furthermore, poisoning from the plant results in physical complications including the flexion of the fetlock and phalangeal joints.
Preparations
Capparis tomentosa is prepared as dry leaves for use in specific contexts. In the study provided, these dry leaves were administered orally to sheep and calves. This method of preparation allowed researchers to observe the toxic effects resulting from ingestion. The consumption of the dry leaves led to significant clinical signs and physiological changes in the animals. Consequently, the preparation of the plant into dry leaves was central to the documented poisoning events.
Parts used
Capparis tomentosa contains leaves that can cause severe toxicity in livestock such as sheep and calves. When these animals ingest the plant's foliage, they often exhibit critical clinical signs including weakness, staggering, and joint flexion. The physiological impact is significant, leading to dangerous fluctuations in serum levels of protein, calcium, and ammonia. Pathological examinations reveal that consumption of the leaves results in neuronal vacuolation within the spinal cord. Ultimately, the necrosis of liver and kidney tissues highlights the lethal potential of this specific plant part.