Feijoa sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Feijoa sellowiana, commonly known as the pineapple guava, is a versatile plant species valued for the bioactive properties found in its fruit and seeds. Scientific investigations have focused on its methanolic and fruit extracts, particularly for their potent antioxidant and acidulant activities. Recent studies highlight the presence of key chemicals like flavone, which contribute to the plant's therapeutic potential. Furthermore, the development of Ag-NPs-F. sellowiana has demonstrated significant antibacterial efficacy against pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. These preparations also show promise in inducing apoptosis, marking the species as a significant subject for pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Acca Sellowiana · Acca Sellowiana Var. Rugosa · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit · Seed
Classification
Common Names
Feijoa sellowiana is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional names. In many circles, it is frequently referred to as Akka Sellowa or Amerikinė aka. Those looking for more descriptive titles might recognize it as the Ananasguave. Its international presence is further highlighted by its common designations in German and Dutch, where it is called Brasilianische Guave and Braziliaanse guave. Regardless of the name used, this unique species remains a fascinating subject for gardeners and botanists alike.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Feijoa sellowiana is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. This species is frequently identified in scientific literature under the name Acca sellowiana. Furthermore, variations such as Acca sellowiana var. rugosa are recognized as part of its diverse classification. The plant's identity also encompasses several other formal synonyms, including Feijoa coolidegii and Feijoa obovata. Finally, the name Feijoa schenckiana serves as another recognized synonym within its extensive botanical history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Feijoa sellowiana is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Myrtales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Myrtaceae family, it shares characteristics with many other aromatic shrubs. Finally, this species is distinguished by its unique placement within the genus Feijoa.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Feijoa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Feijoa sellowiana exhibits a diverse geographical distribution that spans across two major global regions. In Africa, this species is established throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically within the territories of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant also maintains a significant presence in Australasia, where it is widely found across New Zealand. Its reach in this region extends from the northern reaches of New Zealand North to the southern landscapes of New Zealand South. Consequently, these varied habitats highlight the plant's impressive ability to thrive in distinct environmental zones.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Feijoa sellowiana is a versatile plant that typically adopts a shrub-like growth form. As a self-supporting species, it maintains its own structure without the need for external assistance. Depending on its specific growing conditions, the plant generally reaches a maximum height of 3 m. However, in some environments, it can grow slightly larger to reach a height of up to 4 m.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Feijoa sellowiana is a versatile plant that possesses a diverse range of significant biological properties. Research indicates that the fruit extract exhibits potent antibacterial activity, even proving effective against various resistant bacterial strains. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates strong antioxidant capabilities, which contribute to its overall medicinal value. Studies have also highlighted its cytotoxic effects, showing promise in targeting specific tumor cell lines. Finally, Feijoa sellowiana serves as an effective hepatoprotective agent, helping to mitigate liver damage caused by chemical toxicity.
Compounds
Feijoa sellowiana is a plant rich in bioactive compounds that offer significant therapeutic potential. Research indicates that this species contains catechin, which was identified as a major phenolic compound in its fruit extract. Additionally, the plant contains flavone, a key component found through the purification of its acetonic extract. These specific substances contribute to the plant's diverse biological functions, including potent antioxidant and anticancer activities. By leveraging these natural chemical profiles, scientists are uncovering new ways to utilize the plant for green nanotechnology and epigenetic cancer regulation.
Conditions
Feijoa sellowiana demonstrates significant medicinal potential by effectively treating the bacterial infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. The plant also exhibits anticancer properties, specifically showing the ability to treat AGS human gastric carcinoma cells. In addition to its antimicrobial effects, the extract serves to treat blood clotting by acting as an anticoagulant that decreases platelet aggregation. Furthermore, the plant treats the chemiluminescence (CL) emission from human whole blood phagocytes, significantly decreasing this emission in both activated and non-activated leukocytes.
Preparations
Feijoa sellowiana is prepared as Ag-NPs-F. sellowiana through the green synthesis of biogenic silver nanoparticles. The plant is also prepared as various extracts, including ethanol and polar/non-polar versions used to study anticoagulant and antioxidant properties. Specifically, Feijoa sellowiana is prepared as a fruit extract to facilitate the production of functional silver and iron nanoparticles. Additionally, the plant is prepared as a methanolic extract for evaluating its sun protection factor and phenolic content.
Parts used
Feijoa sellowiana is a versatile evergreen plant that offers significant medicinal potential through its various biological components. The fruit of the plant is particularly notable for its potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, which can help mitigate liver damage and support cellular health. Research also demonstrates that extracts derived from the fruit can be utilized in the green synthesis of nanoparticles with strong antibacterial and anticancer activities. Beyond the fruit, the seeds of the species serve as a vital starting point for biotechnological advancements, such as the cultivation of calli and cell suspension cultures in bioreactors. These advanced cultivation methods allow for the enhanced production of bioactive compounds, contributing to the development of safe anticoagulant treatments.