Erythroxylum vacciniifolium
Erythroxylum vacciniifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erythroxylum vacciniifolium is a distinctive plant species recognized for its unique botanical characteristics. Within its various medicinal or chemical applications, the bark serves as the primary component for specialized preparations. This specific part of the plant is harvested and processed to extract its most potent properties. Understanding the traditional uses of its bark provides insight into the plant's importance in ethnobotanical studies. Consequently, researchers continue to examine this species to uncover its full biological potential.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Erythroxylaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Taxonomy
Erythroxylum vacciniifolium is a specialized species that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Malpighiales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. The plant is further nested within the specific family Erythroxylaceae. Finally, it finds its place within the genus Erythroxylum, marking its unique position in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Erythroxylaceae |
| Genus | Erythroxylum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Erythroxylum vacciniifolium is a notable plant species primarily distributed throughout the vast landscapes of Southern America. Within this expansive region, it maintains a significant presence across various territories of Brazil. Its range extends through the lush environments of the Northeast, stretching into the diverse ecosystems of the Southeast. Furthermore, the species can be found thriving within the West-Central regions of the country. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to the different climatic zones found across the Brazilian subcontinent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Erythroxylum vacciniifolium is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree-like growth form. This plant can reach a maximum height of 10 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Its sturdy structure allows it to stand firmly without the need for external support.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Erythroxylum vacciniifolium is prepared as bark for the isolation of specific chemical compounds. This Brazilian endemic plant, commonly known as "catuaba," provides its bark as the primary source for research. Scientists utilize this specific part of the plant to extract various tropane alkaloids. Through high-resolution mass spectrometry and multidimensional NMR spectroscopy, eight new alkaloids were identified from this material. Consequently, the bark serves as the essential botanical component for studying these unique chemical structures.