Erodium cicutarium
Erodium cicutarium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erodium cicutarium, commonly known as redstem filaree, is a versatile herbaceous plant recognized for its significant ethnobotanical applications. Recent scientific investigations have focused on evaluating the biological activities of its various chemical constituents. Specifically, researchers have utilized methanolic extracts and water extracts to explore the therapeutic potential of the species. These studies aim to determine the efficacy of the plant against specific viral threats, including Myxoviruses, Vaccinia virus, and Vesicular Stomatitis. Such research is crucial for identifying natural compounds that may serve as effective antiviral agents.
- Synonyms
- Erodium Cicutarium Var. Cinereum · Erodium Boraeanum · 101 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Geraniaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Erodium cicutarium is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional common names. In Spanish-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as Alfileria or Alfilerillo. Moving into Northern Europe, the species is identified as Almindelig hejrenæb. French speakers recognize the plant through the names Bec de grue commun or Bec-de-grue commun. These varied monikers highlight the widespread presence and linguistic diversity surrounding this specific species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Erodium cicutarium is a complex species that has been identified by many different names throughout botanical history. Within scientific literature, it is frequently associated with several synonyms, including Erodium alsiniflorum and Erodium arenarium. The plant is also known by the taxonomic labels Erodium atomarium and Erodium baeticum in various studies. Furthermore, researchers have historically categorized it under the name Erodium ballii. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical classification and identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Erodium cicutarium is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Geraniales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the family Geraniaceae, sharing traits with many other common wildflowers. Ultimately, it is defined by its unique placement within the genus Erodium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Geraniales |
| Family | Geraniaceae |
| Genus | Erodium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Erodium cicutarium exhibits a widespread distribution that spans across the African continent and various regions of Macaronesia. Within the Macaronesian archipelago, this plant can be found inhabiting the Azores, the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Selvagens. Its reach extends further into the Middle Atlantic Ocean, specifically establishing a presence on the island of St. Helena. This diverse geographical range highlights the species' ability to thrive in distinct island environments. Consequently, the plant maintains a significant ecological footprint across these interconnected maritime territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Erodium cicutarium is a self-supporting herb that adapts easily to various environments. This plant exhibits a diverse range of sizes depending on its growing conditions. Its height can be as minimal as 0.02 meters, though it frequently reaches a more substantial 0.425 meters. In many instances, the species can grow even taller, peaking at a maximum height of 0.6 meters. Such variability in stature highlights the resilient nature of this herbaceous species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Erodium cicutarium demonstrates significant antiviral properties through its water and methanol extracts. These extracts have been observed to treat Herpes virus type 1 effectively. Additionally, the plant shows a therapeutic effect against Vesicular stomatitis. Research further indicates that its fractions can treat various myxoviruses. Finally, Erodium cicutarium serves as an effective agent in treating the vaccinia virus.
Preparations
Erodium cicutarium is prepared as methanolic extracts to facilitate the detailed identification and quantification of its extensive polyphenolic profile. In addition to these preparations, the plant is also prepared as water extracts to investigate its chemical properties. These water extracts, which have been previously poorly investigated, demonstrated significant in vitro antioxidant activity across multiple assays. Both types of extracts serve as essential tools for uncovering the diverse phenolic compounds present in the species. Through these specific preparation methods, the substantial bioactive potential of the plant can be effectively evaluated.