Citrus hystrix
Citrus hystrix · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (12 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Citrus hystrix, commonly known as the kaffir lime, is a versatile plant valued for its medicinal properties derived primarily from its leaves and fruit. Through various preparations such as kaffir lime oil (KLO), leaf essential oils, and ethanolic peel and pulp extracts, it reveals a complex chemical profile containing compounds like 3,7-dimethyloct-6-enal, beta-caryophyllene, beta-pinene, and isoplatydesmine. These bioactive constituents contribute to significant biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidepressant, and antiproliferative effects. Research highlights its potential in addressing various conditions, ranging from the management of acne vulgaris to the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase. Consequently, this plant serves as a rich natural resource for developing therapeutic interventions against diverse physiological challenges.
- Synonyms
- Citrus Tuberoides · Citrus Micrantha Var. Microcarpa · 43 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Citrus hystrix is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of names across different cultures and regions. In many culinary circles, it is frequently referred to as the Kaffir lime or the Ghost-lime. Depending on the local language, you might also encounter it called the Celebes papeda or Djeroek poeroet. In Southeast Asia, the name Jeruk Purut is particularly common among those who use its fragrant leaves in traditional cooking. Regardless of which name is used, this distinct citrus remains a staple ingredient in many global cuisines.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Citrus hystrix is a botanical species that is recognized by several different scientific names throughout various taxonomical records. It is frequently identified by its synonyms, such as Citrus auraria and Citrus balincolong. Researchers also document the plant under the names Citrus boholensis and Citrus celebica. Furthermore, the specific variety Citrus celebica var. southwickii is formally linked to this plant. Understanding these various nomenclatures is essential for accurately tracking the species' global classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Citrus hystrix belongs to the kingdom Plantae, representing a vital part of the natural world. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Citrus, it shares close ties with many other well-known fruit-bearing plants. Finally, its botanical identity is solidified within the family Rutaceae, which defines its unique biological characteristics.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Citrus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Citrus hystrix displays a broad and varied geographic distribution across several key regions of Asia. In temperate zones, the plant is commonly found throughout various parts of China, including both South-Central and Southeast regions. Its presence extends significantly into tropical landscapes, particularly across the Indian Subcontinent. Within these tropical areas, specific populations thrive in Assam, Bangladesh, and the East Himalaya. This wide-ranging habitat allows the species to flourish in diverse ecological environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Citrus hystrix is a self-supporting plant that typically takes the form of a tree. It maintains a manageable stature in most environments, reaching a maximum height of 4 meters. This compact growth habit makes it a distinctive addition to any botanical collection.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Citrus hystrix possesses a diverse range of biological properties that contribute to its therapeutic potential. Research indicates that this species exhibits significant antioxidant activity, which is essential for combating oxidative stress. Furthermore, the plant has demonstrated antimicrobial capabilities, making it a subject of interest for combating various pathogens. Its pharmacological profile also includes antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, suggesting its utility in supporting mental well-being. Finally, the essential oils of this plant show potent antiproliferative activity against specific human cancer cell lines.
Compounds
Citrus hystrix possesses a complex phytochemical profile that includes several significant bioactive compounds. Research indicates that this plant contains beta-caryophyllene and beta-pinene, which contribute to its chemical diversity. Furthermore, the presence of edulinine highlights the unique nutritional and medicinal properties found within its structure. The plant also yields geranial, a compound often associated with its distinct aromatic qualities. Finally, the inclusion of isoplatydesmine further rounds out the specialized chemical makeup of this species.
Conditions
Citrus hystrix exhibits significant antimicrobial activities that allow it to combat various pathogens. Specifically, the plant has been shown to treat infections by inhibiting the growth of Bacillus spp. and E. coli. Furthermore, its essential oils demonstrate effectiveness against the yeast Candida albicans. The plant also provides therapeutic benefits through its ability to treat conditions via 5α-reductase inhibition. These combined antimicrobial and enzymatic properties highlight its potential as a multi-target medicinal agent.
Preparations
Citrus hystrix is prepared as Kaffir lime oil (KLO) to demonstrate anti-biofilm and anti-virulence potential against bacterial blight in rice. The plant is also prepared as leaf essential oils, which have been studied for their antioxidant and antiproliferative activities against human cervical cancer cell lines. Additionally, Citrus hystrix is prepared as essential oils that serve as prospective antibiofilm agents against various bacteria and fungi. The species is prepared as extracts that exhibit significant anti-austerity activity against the PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cell line. While other Citrus species are mentioned as ethanolic peel and pulp extracts, the specific preparation of Citrus hystrix focuses on these diverse bioactive forms.
Parts used
Citrus hystrix is a versatile medicinal plant that offers significant therapeutic potential through its various anatomical parts. Research has specifically highlighted the utility of the fruit, particularly the fruit peel, which contains unique flavones and bioactive compounds. These fruit extracts have demonstrated promising anti-Vpr activities and antioxidant capacities in various biological studies. Additionally, the leaves of the plant serve as a valuable source for essential oils rich in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. When tested against human cervical cancer cell lines, the essential oils derived from these leaves exhibited potent antiproliferative activities.