Coriaria ruscifolia
Coriaria ruscifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Coriaria ruscifolia is a distinctive plant species known for its unique chemical profile. The primary focus of pharmacological interest lies within its specialized fruit. This fruit contains significant bioactive compounds, most notably corianin. Additionally, the plant is a source of ellagic acid 3,3'-dimethylether. Understanding these specific chemical constituents is essential for exploring the plant's potential biological applications.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Coriariaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Coriaria ruscifolia is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional and common names. In certain areas, it is widely known as Matarratones or simply as Zumaque. Those speaking German may refer to the species as Ruskusblättriger Gerberstrauch. It also carries the name Shanshi in other cultural contexts. Finally, it is sometimes identified by the unique designation of garbiarnik listnatcolistý.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Coriaria ruscifolia is a distinctive botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the specific order Cucurbitales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It holds a dedicated place within the genus Coriaria, which highlights its specific structural characteristics. Finally, this species is a prominent member of the family Coriariaceae, completing its complex taxonomic identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Coriariaceae |
| Genus | Coriaria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Coriaria ruscifolia exhibits a wide and diverse geographical range that spans across multiple continents. In the tropical regions of Asia, this species can be found throughout Papuasia and New Guinea, as well as extending into the Solomon Islands. Its presence is also notable in North America, specifically within the varied landscapes of Mexico. Within Mexico, the plant is distributed across the central, northeast, and northwest territories. This expansive distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to significantly different environmental conditions.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Coriaria ruscifolia is a distinctive shrub characterized by its robust, self-supporting growth form. This plant typically reaches a moderate stature, generally measuring between 1 meter and 1.6 meters in height. However, depending on environmental conditions, certain specimens may exhibit much greater development. Some instances of the species can even reach a significant maximum height of 4 meters. Such variability in size allows this shrub to adapt effectively to its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Coriaria ruscifolia serves as a significant botanical source for several bioactive chemical compounds. Scientific analysis of the powdered fruits has successfully isolated the specific constituent known as corianin. This compound was extracted alongside ellagic acid 3,3'-dimethylether using a methanol-based process. Preliminary biological screenings of these substances have indicated that they possess both antibacterial and cytotoxic properties. Such findings highlight the medicinal potential inherent in the chemical makeup of this plant species.
Conditions
Preparations
Parts used
Coriaria ruscifolia is a plant species of significant chemical interest due to the unique properties found within its fruit. Researchers have successfully isolated specific constituents, such as corianin and ellagic acid 3,3'-dimethylether, from the methanol extract of the powdered fruit. These chemical compounds provide insight into the complex biological makeup of the plant's reproductive structures. Furthermore, biological screening has indicated that both the individual compounds and the overall extract possess slight antibacterial activity. The presence of cytotoxicity also suggests that the fruits of Coriaria ruscifolia may hold potential for further pharmacological investigation.