Lippia macrophylla

Lippia macrophylla, commonly known as erva-cidreira in Brazil, is a resilient shrub valued for its potent therapeutic properties. Native to tropical regions, this medicinal plant is rich in essential oils. It is widely utilized in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, alleviate anxiety, and provide soothing anti-inflammatory effects.

  • Scientific name: Lippia macrophylla
  • Family: Verbenaceae
  • Native range: Southern America

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Lamiales, it is classified under the family Verbenaceae. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Lippia.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Lamiales WCVP
Family Verbenaceae WCVP
Genus Lippia WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Lippia macrophylla, is known by various common names depending on the linguistic and regional context. In Portuguese, it is frequently referred to as alecrim-de-mata, while in Spanish, it is commonly called romero de monte. Additionally, it is known by the name yerba de monte in certain regions.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant is native to specific regions within the South American country of Brazil. Its natural habitat is primarily concentrated in the Northeast part of the country. Additionally, the species can be found growing across the Southeast region of Brazil. This distribution pattern highlights its preference for these particular Brazilian biomes. Therefore, its geographical range is strictly defined by these two major Brazilian territories.

Region Area Source
Brazil Brazil Northeast WCVP
Brazil Brazil Southeast WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, commonly known as yerba buena, derives much of its medicinal value from its lush, green leaves. These leaves are characterized by their relatively large size and elliptical shape, housing the essential oils and bioactive compounds responsible for their therapeutic properties. When crushed or brewed, the leaves release a distinct aromatic scent, making them the primary component used in traditional herbal remedies for various ailments.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
1
Plant Part Sources Confidence
leaves 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Chemicals

Lippia macrophylla has 2 reported phytochemicals identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include Thymol, carvacrol.

Total chemicals
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
Thymol 1 ★☆☆☆☆
carvacrol 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Medicinal Uses

Lippia macrophylla has 1 reported medicinal uses identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include Chagas disease.

Total uses
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Uses

Use Sources Confidence
Chagas disease 1 ★☆☆☆☆