Erythrina crista-galli
Erythrina crista-galli · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (5 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erythrina crista-galli is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse range of biological activities. Research involving crude extracts from the plant's leaf has revealed potent antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, and 5-alpha-reductase-inhibitor properties. The chemical profile of this plant includes specific compounds such as phomol, which contribute to its complex pharmacological nature. Studies utilizing the formalin test have highlighted its astringent, narcotic, and neuroleptic effects, though it is also noted for its potential as an abortifacient. Consequently, understanding these multifaceted characteristics is essential for evaluating its medicinal and toxicological potential.
- Synonyms
- Erythrina Compacta · Corallodendron Crista-Galli · 13 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Erythrina crista-galli is a remarkable botanical species known by a diverse array of regional names. In various parts of the world, it is frequently referred to as the Brazilian Coral Tree or the Albero di corallo. Depending on the local culture and dialect, you might also encounter it called the Colorín de seda. It is also identified by names such as Corticeira and Corticeira-do-Banhado in specific environments. This variety of nomenclature reflects the wide geographic presence and cultural significance of this striking plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Erythrina crista-galli is a taxonomically complex species that is recognized by several different scientific synonyms. Among these alternative names is Corallodendron crista-galli, which reflects different historical classifications of the plant. The species is also frequently referred to as Erythrina compacta in various botanical contexts. Furthermore, the plant encompasses several distinct varieties, including Erythrina crista-galli var. corallina and Erythrina crista-galli var. hasskarlii. Finally, the classification extends to include Erythrina crista-galli var. laurifolia, illustrating the diverse nomenclature associated with this striking species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Erythrina crista-galli is a remarkable specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further distinguished by its membership in the order Fabales. It specifically falls under the family Fabaceae, showcasing its connection to other legumes. Ultimately, this species is defined by its placement within the unique genus Erythrina.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Erythrina crista-galli exhibits a diverse geographical presence across several key regions of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, the species is well-established within the borders of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its reach extends further into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it can be found growing in Ethiopia. Beyond the mainland, the plant also maintains a distribution in the Macaronesia region, specifically on the island of Madeira. This wide-ranging habitat demonstrates the plant's ability to adapt to various African ecological zones.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Erythrina crista-galli is a distinctive self-supporting plant characterized by its sturdy tree growth form. Depending on its specific environment, this species can vary significantly in size. While some specimens may only reach a minimum height of 3 meters, others develop more robustly. Many individuals grow to a more substantial minimum of 8 meters as they mature. Ultimately, this impressive tree can reach a maximum height of 12 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Erythrina crista-galli, commonly known as the ceibo or coral tree, is an Argentinean leguminous plant recognized for its diverse medicinal properties. Scientific studies have demonstrated its potent analgesic effects, with certain leaf extracts showing higher efficacy than standard reference drugs like acetaminophen. The plant also exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and neuroleptic activities, which are often supported by metabolites found within its endophytic fungi. Furthermore, the alkaloids and extracts derived from its bark possess notable antimicrobial potential against various bacteria and fungi. These combined pharmacological attributes, including its traditional use as a narcotic, highlight the significant therapeutic value of this species.
Compounds
Erythrina crista-galli is a medicinal plant known for its diverse chemical profile and therapeutic applications. Research indicates that this species contains various metabolites, including 4-hydroxymellein and clavatol. Furthermore, the plant is a rich source of specific erythrinan alkaloids such as erysotrine and erysotramidine. Studies have also identified the presence of erysotrine N-oxide within its chemical makeup. These various compounds contribute to the plant's significant pharmacological potential in traditional medicine.
Conditions
Erythrina crista-galli serves as a versatile medicinal plant utilized in Argentinean ethnopharmacology for its anti-inflammatory properties. Research into its endophytic fungi has even led to the isolation of new metabolites like Phomol that exhibit specific anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, extracts from the leaves of the plant demonstrate potent antinociceptive action when tested in various in vivo analgesic models. In traditional folk medicine, the species is also recognized for its astringent qualities and its use in treating bronchiolitic problems. These diverse therapeutic applications highlight the significant medicinal value of the "seibo" tree.
Preparations
Erythrina crista-galli is prepared as crude extracts to facilitate a bioscreening study regarding its medicinal properties. These specific extracts were among the eight types analyzed to detect various cytotoxic activities. The researchers utilized these prepared forms to test for the inhibition of crown gall tumours. Additionally, the study evaluated how these extracts interact with DNA and respond to KB cell cytotoxicity bioassays. This methodical preparation allowed for a direct investigation into the plant's ethnobotanical uses in Argentina.
Parts used
Erythrina crista-galli possesses leaves that exhibit significant therapeutic potential, particularly regarding their analgesic properties. Research indicates that extracts derived from these leaves can effectively inhibit pain in various in vivo models. Specifically, certain fractions obtained from the leaf extracts have demonstrated a potency that surpasses common reference drugs like acetylsalicylic acid and acetaminophen. These active components, which include terpenes, show a strong ability to reduce abdominal constrictions and manage pain phases in formal testing. Consequently, the leaves of this plant serve as a valuable source for developing new antinociceptive treatments.