Elaeagnus umbellata
Elaeagnus umbellata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (11 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Elaeagnus umbellata is a versatile plant species that offers significant therapeutic potential through its leaves and fruits. Rich in bioactive chemicals such as flavonoids, the various preparations including crude extracts and berry extracts demonstrate powerful medicinal properties. Scientific studies highlight its diverse biological activities, specifically its roles as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibacterial agent. Furthermore, the plant shows promise in addressing complex health conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and various bacterial infections. By leveraging the nutritional and chemical profile of its fruits and leaves, this species serves as a vital subject for pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Elaeagnaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Elaeagnus umbellata is a versatile plant known by several different names depending on the region and language. In many circles, it is commonly referred to as Aki-gumi or the more descriptive Autumn berry. Those searching for it under different cultural labels may also encounter it as Doldige. In German-speaking contexts, the species is frequently identified as Doldige Ölweide or simply Doldige Ölweide (DE). Understanding these various common names is essential for anyone looking to identify this specific shrub in the wild.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Elaeagnus umbellata is a distinctive species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and falls into the order Rosales. Its botanical lineage continues through the family Elaeagnaceae, which showcases its unique evolutionary traits. Furthermore, this plant is a primary member of the genus Elaeagnus. Understanding these taxonomic relationships helps researchers better grasp its place in the natural world.
| 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 umbellata exhibits a broad and diverse geographical distribution that spans several distinct regions across the globe. In the western hemisphere, the species can be found within Africa and the Macaronesian islands, including the Azores. Its presence is also heavily concentrated throughout Asia-Temperate zones, particularly across Central Asia and Tadzhikistan. Furthermore, the plant is widely established throughout various sectors of China, ranging from the North-Central regions to the South-Central areas. This expansive range finally extends into the Southeast portions of China, showcasing the plant's remarkable adaptability to different environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Elaeagnus umbellata is a self-supporting plant that typically takes the form of a hardy shrub. Depending on its specific growing conditions, this species can reach a minimum height of 2 meters. While many specimens settle at a modest 4 meters, some can grow even larger. In certain environments, the plant may reach an impressive maximum height of 4.6 meters. This versatile growth habit allows it to adapt effectively to various landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Elaeagnus umbellata is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties and high phytochemical content. Research highlights its significant antidiabetic potential, particularly through the inhibition of enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase to manage hyperglycemia. The plant also exhibits potent antioxidant activity, which helps mitigate oxidative stress and protects against various cellular damages. Furthermore, its antimicrobial and antibacterial effects have been demonstrated against several bacterial strains, making it a promising candidate for treating infections. Additionally, studies suggest that the plant possesses antimutagenic properties, contributing to its overall value in therapeutic applications.
Compounds
Elaeagnus umbellata is a medicinal shrub renowned for its diverse profile of bioactive compounds that offer significant health benefits. The berries are particularly rich in polyphenols, with a major proportion consisting of anthocyanins and flavonoids which contribute to potent antioxidant activities. Beyond these, the plant contains monoterpenes that support various biological functions within the body. Research also highlights the presence of phytosterols, which play a crucial role in supporting anticoagulant activity and managing cholesterol levels. Additionally, the inclusion of methyl palmitate provides the plant with effective antibacterial properties against a wide range of pathogens.
Conditions
Elaeagnus umbellata exhibits significant pharmacological potential by providing anti-inflammatory benefits through its diverse bioactive metabolites. The plant serves as an effective antidiabetic agent, with specific compounds like morin helping to restore fasting blood glucose levels and improve lipid profiles in diabetic models. Its antimicrobial properties are demonstrated by its ability to inhibit various bacterial strains, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, the plant shows promise in treating bacterial infections due to the potent antibacterial activity found in its phytochemicals. Finally, research indicates that E. umbellata extracts may aid in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by providing neuroprotection and improving memory.
Preparations
Elaeagnus umbellata is utilized in various forms, most notably as fruits which serve as a rich source of vitamins and essential minerals. These fruits are often processed into an extract of fruits to help regulate glucose absorption and reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, the plant is prepared as berries that contain high concentrations of polyphenols and anthocyanins. Research also involves the use of a crude extract to evaluate antioxidant and antidiabetic potential in medicinal studies. Finally, different extracts of the plant have demonstrated neuroprotective benefits and the ability to improve memory in therapeutic contexts.
Parts used
Elaeagnus umbellata, commonly known as the autumn olive, is a highly valued medicinal shrub recognized for its diverse bioactive properties. The leaves of this plant serve as a significant source of phytochemicals, demonstrating potent antibacterial, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities. Research indicates that leaf extracts can effectively mitigate liver damage and modulate inflammatory responses through various cellular pathways. In addition to the foliage, the fruits of E. umbellata offer substantial nutritional and therapeutic benefits, acting as an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. These berries are particularly rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins, which contribute to their ability to regulate glucose absorption and reduce oxidative stress.