Lactuca saligna
Lactuca saligna · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lactuca saligna is a plant species that has garnered scientific interest due to its significant therapeutic potential. Recent investigations into its hydro-methanolic extracts have revealed a rich profile of bioactive chemical constituents. Specifically, the plant contains key compounds such as 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, and apigenin 7-O-glucuronide. These phytochemicals contribute to the plant's dual capacity for potent antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Research demonstrates that these extracts effectively combat various pathogens, including Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes.
- Synonyms
- Lactuca Vanensis · Chondrilla Crepoides · 13 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lactuca saligna is a plant known by several distinct common names across different regions and languages. It is frequently referred to as Deli Marul, a name that highlights its botanical identity. In other contexts, it may be called Gwylaeth Eiddil, Gwylaeth Leiaf, or Gwylaeth Lleiaf. Furthermore, the species is recognized by the French designation Laitue a feuilles de saule. These varied names reflect the diverse linguistic traditions used to identify this particular variety.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lactuca saligna is a botanical species recognized by several different scientific names throughout its classification history. It is formally associated with the synonym Chondrilla crepoides, reflecting past taxonomic shifts. Researchers also identify the plant under the name Hieracium salignum in various historical records. Furthermore, the species has been linked to the synonyms Lactuca adulteriana and Lactuca caucasica. Finally, the botanical literature acknowledges Lactuca cracoviensis as another valid synonym for this plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lactuca saligna is a member of the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of living vegetation. Within this realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Asterales, which connects it to a wide range of flowering plants. Furthermore, this specimen is a part of the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the daisy or sunflower family. Ultimately, its biological identity is defined by its placement within the specific genus Lactuca.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Lactuca |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lactuca saligna exhibits a broad geographical range that spans across the African continent and the Macaronesian islands, including the Azores. Within Africa, its presence is particularly concentrated throughout the Northern African region. Specifically, this plant is widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of Algeria and Egypt. It also finds suitable habitats within the territories of Morocco and Tunisia. Consequently, these varied locations highlight the significant ecological footprint of the species throughout the Mediterranean and Atlantic zones.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lactuca saligna is a self-supporting herb that characterizes its unique ecological niche. This plant exhibits a versatile growth form, allowing it to establish itself firmly in various environments. Its physical stature is quite variable, with heights ranging from a mere 0.03 m to a maximum of 1 m. Most specimens typically maintain a minimum height of 0.4 m as they mature. This range of dimensions highlights the adaptable nature of the species within its habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lactuca saligna has emerged as a promising medicinal plant due to its rich profile of polyphenolic compounds. Recent studies on its aerial parts have demonstrated that the plant possesses significant antioxidant activity, as confirmed by DPPH, FRAP, and FIC assays. Furthermore, the extracts exhibit remarkable antibacterial properties against a diverse range of pathogens, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In silico analyses have even identified specific phenolic compounds within the plant that serve as potent candidates for new antibacterial drug development. Consequently, this species represents a valuable source of bioactive phytochemicals that warrant further clinical exploration.
Compounds
Lactuca saligna has emerged as a significant medicinal plant due to its rich profile of polyphenolic compounds. Recent chemical characterization of its hydro-methanolic extracts reveals a diverse array of bioactive constituents. Notably, the plant contains substantial amounts of dicaffeoyltartaric acid, which was found to be among the most abundant compounds in the dried extract. Additionally, the research identified the presence of 5-caffeoylquinic acid within the aerial parts of the species. These specific phenolic compounds contribute to the plant's impressive antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
Conditions
Lactuca saligna exhibits remarkable antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria, including Enterococcus faecalis. The plant extracts also demonstrate the ability to treat Escherichia coli effectively. Furthermore, research indicates that Lactuca saligna can combat Listeria monocytogenes. It has also shown significant potency in treating Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Finally, the antibacterial properties of the plant extend to the treatment of Salmonella typhimurium.
Preparations
Lactuca saligna is prepared as hydro-methanolic extracts to facilitate the characterization of its polyphenolic compounds. These specific extracts serve as the primary medium for evaluating the plant's significant antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Through this preparation method, researchers identified an abundance of various phenolic compounds within the aerial parts. The resulting hydro-methanolic extracts demonstrated impressive efficacy in scavenging free radicals and inhibiting several bacterial strains. Ultimately, the use of hydro-methanolic extraction allows for the identification of potent phytochemical candidates for drug development.