Cornus mas
Cornus mas · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cornus mas is a versatile plant species known for the diverse therapeutic potential found within its fruits, flowers, and leaves. Scientific investigations into its methanol extracts have revealed a rich profile of bioactive chemicals, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, iridoids, and flavonols. These compounds contribute to significant biological activities such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic effects. Furthermore, research suggests the plant possesses cytotoxic properties capable of inducing apoptosis, alongside anticoagulant functions. Consequently, various preparations of Cornus mas are being studied for their ability to address complex metabolic and cellular conditions.
- Synonyms
- Cornus Nudiflora · Eukrania Mascula · 32 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Cornaceae
- Distribution
- Northern America
- Plant Parts
- Fruit · Flower
Classification
Common Names
Cornus mas is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and traditional names. In certain areas, it is affectionately referred to as Adi zoğal or simply as Billey cornel. It also carries the distinct title of Coirnéilean in some linguistic contexts. Many people commonly recognize the shrub as Corn, though this can sometimes lead to confusion with other crops. Most frequently, however, it is celebrated globally by its descriptive name, the Cornelian Cherry.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cornus mas is a versatile species that is recognized in botanical literature through several different synonymous names. It has been historically categorized under various identifiers, including Cornus erythrocarpa and Cornus homerica. Furthermore, the plant encompasses several distinct forms, such as Cornus mas f. alba and the unique Cornus mas f. albocarpa. Additional taxonomic variations also include the classification of Cornus mas f. andrzejowskii. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for accurately identifying the different morphological expressions of this species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cornus mas belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, encompassing a vast array of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further refines its biological identity through its placement in the order Cornales. It is a distinguished member of the Cornaceae family, showcasing unique evolutionary traits. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Cornus, which helps botanists identify its specific characteristics.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Cornus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cornus mas exhibits a widespread distribution throughout the Asia-Temperate regions, particularly spanning the diverse landscapes of the Caucasus and Transcaucasus. Its presence extends significantly into Western Asia, where it can be found flourishing across the terrain of Türkiye. The species also inhabits the Mediterranean areas, specifically reaching the East Aegean Islands. Furthermore, its natural range includes the vital ecological corridors of the Lebanon-Syria region. This broad geographical spread highlights the plant's adaptability to various temperate environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cornus mas is a versatile plant that typically presents a shrub-like growth form. As a self-supporting species, it maintains a sturdy structure without the need for external support. Depending on its environment, the plant's height can vary significantly, ranging from a minimum of 2 meters to a maximum of 10 meters. Some specimens may also establish a consistent baseline height of at least 5.7 meters. This range of dimensions allows it to adapt beautifully to various landscape settings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cornus mas, commonly known as cornelian cherry, possesses a diverse range of biological activities that contribute to its traditional medicinal uses. Research indicates that extracts from its fruits exhibit unique antihyperlipidemic and anticoagulant properties. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates significant antidiabetic potential, making it a subject of interest for metabolic health. Scientific studies also highlight its antioxidant capacity, which can help mitigate oxidative stress in various biological models. Finally, in vitro evaluations have revealed that extracts of this species possess cytotoxic activity against certain human cancer cell lines.
Compounds
Cornus mas is a plant highly valued in folk medicine due to its significant biological value and medicinal properties. Research indicates that this species contains a rich variety of polyphenols, which contribute to its overall antioxidant capacity. Specifically, the plant is noted for its high content of iridoids, a class of compounds essential to its bioactivity. Furthermore, molecular docking studies have identified the presence of loganin within the plant, supporting its potential antibacterial and antitumor effects. These diverse chemical constituents highlight the complex phytochemical profile that makes the species so biologically active.
Conditions
Cornus mas demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by mitigating gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity through its protective impact on renal tubules. This plant also effectively reduces HOMA-IR, contributing to the management of cardiometabolic risk factors. Its ability to lower specific renal biomarkers is evidenced by a significant reduction in KIM-1 levels. Furthermore, medicinal preparations derived from its fresh fruits exhibit potent antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Finally, Cornus mas provides a bactericidal effect against Staphylococcus aureus, offering a potential tool to combat antibiotic resistance.
Preparations
Cornus mas is prepared as fruits, which are recognized for their high biological value and medicinal properties. The plant is also prepared as extracts, specifically fruit extracts, to investigate their nephroprotective and vasorelaxant activities. Furthermore, Cornus mas is prepared as methanol extracts of leaves and flowers to evaluate their antioxidant and cytotoxic potential. Additionally, the plant is prepared as pulp, which has been shown to have beneficial impacts on dyslipidemia and bone quality in diabetic models.
Parts used
Cornus mas is a versatile medicinal plant characterized by several distinct botanical parts used in various therapeutic studies. Research highlights the significant biological value of its fruit, particularly its pulp, which has demonstrated benefits in managing dyslipidemia and improving bone quality in diabetic models. Additionally, the plant's leaves and flowers have been investigated for their specific phytochemical profiles and potential antioxidant properties. These different components, including the fruit, leaf, and flower, contribute to the plant's diverse ethnopharmacological applications. Consequently, understanding the unique properties of each part of Cornus mas is essential for evaluating its full medicinal potential.