Eryngium campestre
Eryngium campestre · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eryngium campestre is a resilient plant species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse biochemical profile. Research indicates that the plant contains valuable chemical compounds, most notably a variety of flavonoids. Studies focusing on the medicinal potential of the plant's root have demonstrated significant biological activity. Specifically, extracts from this part of the plant show effectiveness against various harmful pathogens. These findings include notable inhibitory effects against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Staphylococcus aureus.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Eryngium campestre is a distinctive plant recognized by a diverse array of regional and traditional identifiers. Depending on the local landscape, it may be referred to by common names such as Armika or Bjerg-mandstro. In certain areas, the species is also known as Boglynnon, highlighting its linguistic variety. Furthermore, it is frequently identified through the terms Calcatreppola and Calcatreppola campestre. These varied names collectively reflect the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance across different regions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Eryngium campestre belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse lineage of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Apiales, which helps define its botanical characteristics. Further specialization places the plant within the family Apiaceae, a group known for its distinct floral structures. Ultimately, this species is a distinguished member of the genus Eryngium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Eryngium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Eryngium campestre is a resilient species primarily distributed throughout the vast landscapes of Northern Africa. Its presence is widely documented across several key countries, including Algeria and Egypt. The plant also thrives within the diverse environmental conditions found in Libya and Morocco. Furthermore, its range extends into the coastal and inland regions of Tunisia. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to the varied climates of the North African continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eryngium campestre is a self-supporting herb that thrives in its natural habitat. This plant typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of 0.7 m. Depending on environmental conditions, its growth can vary significantly. Individual specimens may be as short as 0.15 m, though they often establish a more consistent presence at a minimum height of 0.281 m. These dimensions characterize the compact and sturdy nature of this unique species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Eryngium campestre possesses significant antimicrobial properties that allow it to combat several types of harmful bacteria. Specifically, the essential oils from this plant demonstrate high potential in treating the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. It also shows effective inhibitory activity against the Gram-negative pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. Furthermore, the plant's extracts are capable of treating Proteus mirabilis, with certain extracts showing particularly high activity against this species. These results highlight the efficacy of Eryngium campestre in addressing both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial threats.
Preparations
Parts used
Eryngium campestre serves as a significant source of diverse chemical compounds, particularly within its specialized root structures. Scientific investigations have successfully isolated five new triterpene saponins from these plant roots. Researchers utilized advanced 2D NMR techniques and mass spectrometry to establish the complex structures of these specific molecules. Beyond their structural novelty, these compounds have demonstrated biological activity during laboratory testing. Specifically, they showed a weak cytotoxicity when applied against HCT 116 and HT 29 human colon cancer cell lines.