Davilla elliptica
Davilla elliptica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Davilla elliptica is a medicinal plant that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological profile. Research indicates that the leaves of this species possess potent antinociceptive and antioxidant properties. These bioactive compounds are typically studied through various preparations, including crude, hydroalcoholic, and methanolic extracts. Such extracts have demonstrated therapeutic potential in addressing gastrointestinal conditions like gastritis and ulcers. Consequently, investigating the medicinal value of Davilla elliptica offers promising avenues for natural drug development.
- Synonyms
- Davilla Elliptica Var. Castaneifolia · Davilla Villosa · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Dilleniaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Davilla elliptica is a distinctive plant recognized by various local names depending on the region. It is widely known by its common name, Chasuemanca, among many traditional gardeners. In other areas, the species is frequently referred to as Lixeirinha. These diverse monikers reflect the plant's deep-rooted presence within different cultural landscapes. Understanding these names helps enthusiasts identify this unique species more easily in the wild.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Davilla elliptica is a taxonomically complex species that has historically been identified by several different scientific names. Much of this complexity stems from its recognized synonym, Davilla castaneifolia, which reflects long-standing debates regarding its classification. This relationship extends further into specific varieties, such as Davilla castaneifolia var. floribunda and Davilla elliptica var. castaneifolia. Additionally, researchers have previously categorized certain specimens under the names Davilla goyazensis and Davilla villosa. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurately documenting the botanical lineage of this plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Davilla elliptica is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the specific order Dilleniales, showcasing its unique evolutionary path. This species is a distinguished member of the genus Davilla, which defines its core botanical characteristics. Finally, it is categorized within the family Dilleniaceae, placing it among a diverse group of related flowering plants.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dilleniales |
| Family | Dilleniaceae |
| Genus | Davilla |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Davilla elliptica is a plant primarily characterized by its extensive distribution throughout South America. Within the vast borders of Brazil, it can be found spanning several distinct regions, including the North, Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central areas. Its presence is not limited to Brazil alone, as it also extends into the southern reaches of the continent. Specifically, the species has established itself within the territory of Paraguay. This wide geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive across diverse South American landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Davilla elliptica is characterized by a versatile shrub-like growth form that can also exhibit a facultative climbing habit. This adaptable plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 4 meters. Such structural flexibility allows it to thrive in various environmental niches within its habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Davilla elliptica has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential through its diverse pharmacological activities. Research indicates that the plant possesses notable antinociceptive properties, specifically through the action of myricetin 3-O-β-galactoside. This compound appears to mitigate pain and inflammation by inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis within the peripheral system. Additionally, the plant exhibits antioxidant activity, which is crucial for managing oxidative stress. Studies comparing various Brazilian medicinal plants have confirmed that Davilla elliptica extracts can effectively inhibit the oxidative burst induced by Helicobacter pylori.
Compounds
Conditions
Davilla elliptica demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by reducing carrageenan-induced paw edema through the inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis. The plant also provides relief during the inflammatory phase of the formalin test via its isolated myricetin 3-O-β-galactoside component. In terms of gastrointestinal health, Davilla elliptica is utilized as a medicinal plant to treat gastritis by suppressing the oxidative burst caused by H. pylori. However, studies also reveal that the plant possesses aneugenic and cytotoxic actions when tested on plant models like Lactuca sativa. These diverse biological activities highlight both the medicinal benefits and the potential cellular risks associated with the species.
Preparations
Davilla elliptica is prepared as a crude extract to facilitate the derivation of specific EtOAc and MeOH fractions. It is also prepared as an extract to isolate potent constituents like myricetin-3-O-β-galactopyranoside. In certain studies, the plant is prepared as a hydroalcoholic extract to investigate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of its isolated compounds. Furthermore, Davilla elliptica is prepared as methanolic extracts to evaluate its antioxidant capacity against oxidative bursts. These various preparation methods allow researchers to characterize the medicinal properties and phytochemical profiles of the species.
Parts used
Davilla elliptica is a medicinal plant traditionally utilized in Brazil to address inflammatory processes and provide gastroprotective benefits. Research has focused on the aerial parts of the plant, specifically targeting the leaves for bioactive compounds. Through bioguided isolation, scientists successfully extracted myricetin-3-O-β-galactopyranoside from these leaf fractions. This specific compound demonstrates significant antinociceptive activity, effectively reducing pain in experimental models. Ultimately, the study highlights the medicinal potential of the leaves as a potent source of natural analgesic agents.