Elaeagnus angustifolia
What's the taxonomical classification of Elaeagnus angustifolia?
Elaeagnus angustifolia belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is categorized under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this group, it is classified in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. The plant follows the order Rosales and is a member of the family Elaeagnaceae. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement within the genus Elaeagnus, specifically as the species angustifolia.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Elaeagnus |
| Species | angustifolia |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Elaeagnus angustifolia has lanceolate, leathery leaves that are typically 2 to 5 centimeters wide and 5 to 12 centimeters long with wavy margins and a silvery underside. The plant features small, fragrant, white or pinkish flowers that emerge from axillary clusters. Its stems are woody and often possess small, scale-like leaves characteristic of the family Elaeagnaceae. The fruit is a small, dry, ovoid drupe that turns reddish or brownish as it matures. This shrubby species is distinguished by its overall grayish-green appearance caused by dense, tiny scales covering the foliage.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to East Asia, specifically spanning across China, Korea, Japan, and parts of the Russian Far East. It thrives primarily in temperate climates where it can inhabit various environments such as riverbanks, moist valleys, and woodland edges. Due to its hardiness, it has been introduced to several other regions around the world for ornamental purposes. In some non-native areas, particularly in North America, it is considered an invasive species because it spreads easily along waterways. Its ability to adapt to diverse soil types allows it to occupy a wide range of ecological niches within its native range.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
Elaeagnus angustifolia contains medicinal compounds primarily located in its leaves, bark, and fruit. The leaves are often utilized in traditional remedies to treat inflammatory conditions and skin ailments due to their bioactive constituents. Extracts from the bark are sometimes applied topically or ingested to address various digestive or systemic issues. The fruit also provides nutritional and therapeutic value, often being used for its antioxidant properties. These various parts are processed into decoctions or ointments to harness their specific healing benefits.
What are the pharmacological activities of Elaeagnus angustifolia?
This plant has demonstrated significant pharmacological potential through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, and anti-tumor activities. Scientific investigations reveal that its bioactive compounds effectively neutralize free radicals to prevent cellular damage. These properties also allow the plant to inhibit the growth of various pathogenic microorganisms and reduce systemic inflammation. Furthermore, the extracts show a specialized ability to target and suppress malignant cell proliferation. This multifaceted biological profile makes Elaeagnus angustifolia a subject of great interest for therapeutic development.
As discussed in a study, Elaeagnus angustifolia is a medicinal plant with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The aqueous extract of the plant was found to contain 0.21 % (w/w) kaempferol according to HPLC. In a 7 weeks trial, patients received either 300 mg/day (n=33) or 600 mg/day (n=32) of the extract. The treatment resulted in significant reductions in WOMAC, VAS, LPFI and PGA scores. The efficacy of the EA extract in reducing symptoms of OA was comparable to 800 mg/day of ibuprofen. No adverse event was reported during the course of the trial.
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains medicinal compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, salidroside, vanilloside, and phengustifoals A. These diverse chemical constituents contribute to the complex pharmacological profile of the species. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids often serve as potent antioxidants within the plant's cellular structure. The presence of salidroside and vanilloside suggests potential adaptogenic or neuroprotective properties. Additionally, phengustifoals A adds to the specific biochemical richness that defines its therapeutic potential.
As discussed in a study, the phytochemical analysis of Elaeagnus angustifolia purified extract (EAPE) revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. This extract showed the highest absorption in the ultraviolet region compared to other tested extracts. When incorporated into sunscreen formulations, the SPF values ranged from 6.37±0.14 to 21.05±0.85. A formulation containing 6% EAPE remained stable for 8 weeks when stored in an oven at 40 °C and a refrigerator at 4 °C. The findings indicated that EAPE possesses a higher sun protection capacity than the other plant extracts.
What health problems is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating inflammation, pain, microbial infections, wounds, and asthma. Its various parts possess bioactive compounds that help reduce swelling and alleviate physical discomfort throughout the body. The medicinal properties of the plant are particularly effective at combating microbial infections by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. When applied topically, it serves as a remedy to speed up the healing process of various wounds. Additionally, its derivatives are utilized in traditional practices to help manage the respiratory difficulties associated with asthma.
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant can be prepared as a decoction from its bark or as a tea from its leaves to treat various ailments including digestive issues and skin inflammations. The bark is often boiled in water to extract tannins that serve as an astringent for wound healing. Leaf extracts are sometimes utilized in traditional topical applications to soothe minor skin irritations or rashes. Some regional folk practices also involve using a concentrated infusion of the plant to address respiratory discomfort. These different methods of preparation allow for the targeted delivery of the plant's medicinal properties.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause allergic skin reactions, respiratory irritation, and potential digestive distress if ingested. Contact with the leaves or stems may trigger contact dermatitis, resulting in itchy rashes or redness on sensitive skin. Inhaling pollen from the flowers can exacerbate asthma symptoms or cause hay fever in susceptible individuals. If parts of the plant are consumed, it may lead to stomach aches or nausea. These side effects are most common in people with existing sensitivities to botanical allergens.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- Unknown/not documented