Elaeagnus loureiroi

Elaeagnus loureiroi · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Elaeagnus loureiroi is a versatile plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Recent studies have focused on the biological activities of its fruit, specifically examining its antibacterial, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. Research utilizing methanol/water extracts and methanolic crude extracts has revealed that these preparations are rich in beneficial compounds such as flavonoids. These chemical constituents play a crucial role in the plant's ability to combat various pathogens, including the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Consequently, exploring the phytochemical profile of this plant offers promising avenues for developing new natural medicinal agents.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Not available
Common names
Not available
Family
Elaeagnaceae
Distribution
Pacific
Plant Parts
Fruit

Classification

Common Names

Elaeagnus loureiroi is a distinctive species often recognized by its traditional Chinese names, such as 羅氏胡頹子 and 雞柏紫藤. These names highlight the plant's unique botanical identity and its cultural significance within regional landscapes. As a versatile shrub, it is frequently celebrated for its ability to thrive in diverse environmental conditions. Its elegant structure and foliage make it a popular choice for both ornamental gardening and ecological restoration projects. Understanding these linguistic connections provides a deeper appreciation for the plant's long-standing history in horticultural practice.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Taxonomy

Elaeagnus loureiroi is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized under the order Rosales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. This plant is a primary representative of the genus Elaeagnus. Finally, it finds its specific botanical home within the family Elaeagnaceae.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Rosales
Family Elaeagnaceae
Genus Elaeagnus

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Elaeagnus loureiroi is a versatile species with a broad geographic reach spanning across various Asian climates. Its distribution extends through the temperate regions of China, specifically within the South-Central and Southeast provinces. Beyond these northern reaches, the plant also thrives in the more tropical environments of Indo-China. This ability to inhabit both temperate and tropical zones, such as in Vietnam, highlights its ecological adaptability. Consequently, the species maintains a significant presence across a diverse range of Asian landscapes.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Elaeagnus loureiroi is characterized by its distinctive shrub-like growth form.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Elaeagnus loureiroi demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its various biological activities. Research indicates that this plant possesses notable antibacterial properties, particularly when studying the synergistic effects of endophytic fungal extracts. Furthermore, it exhibits strong antioxidant capabilities that contribute to its overall health-promoting profile. The plant also shows promising antidiabetic activity, specifically through its ability to inhibit key enzymes associated with glucose metabolism. Together, these diverse biofunctional properties suggest that the species could play a meaningful role in both dietary and pharmaceutical applications.

Compounds

Conditions

Elaeagnus loureiroi demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating various serotypes of the dengue virus, including DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Research indicates that the ethyl acetate fraction of this plant is highly active against all four of these viral strains. Additionally, the plant's biological properties extend to combating bacterial threats. Specifically, endophytic fungal extracts isolated from this species show a synergistic effect when combined with EDTA to treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These combined findings highlight the plant's versatility in addressing both viral and bacterial pathogens.

Preparations

Elaeagnus loureiroi is prepared as methanol/water extracts for experimental screening against various dengue virus serotypes. This specific preparation method allows researchers to evaluate the anti-dengue activity of the plant using baby hamster kidney cells. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as methanolic crude extracts to facilitate the measurement of its phenolic and flavonoid levels. These methanolic preparations are essential for assessing the antioxidant and potential antidiabetic abilities of the species. Through these distinct extraction methods, the pharmacological potential of the plant can be thoroughly investigated.

Parts used

Elaeagnus loureiroi is categorized as a plant species that produces fruit, a characteristic central to its botanical profile. In the context of recent nutritional research, various indigenous Thai fruits are being examined for their rich phytochemical content. Studies such as these investigate the phenolic and flavonoid levels within these species to determine their medicinal potential. By analyzing the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of such fruits, scientists hope to uncover new ways to manage conditions like type 2 diabetes. Ultimately, identifying the functional benefits of these botanical resources could lead to significant advancements in both dietary and pharmaceutical applications.