Morus celtidifolia
Morus celtidifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Morus celtidifolia is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse range of biological activities. Research focusing on the plant's leaves has demonstrated potent antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. These medicinal effects have been evaluated through various preparations, including hexanic, methanolic, and non-polar organic extracts. Specifically, the efficacy of these extracts has been tested against various pathogens such as Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter cloacae, and Enterococcus faecalis. Understanding these chemical profiles provides valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Morus Corylifolia · Morus Pandurata · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Moraceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Morus celtidifolia is a versatile species recognized by a diverse array of regional nicknames. In various locales, it is commonly referred to as Amacapulín or Amora-do-mato. It also goes by the names Amora-brasileira and Amora-vermelha depending on the specific cultural context. Furthermore, some people identify this plant as Gurripiarana. These many common names highlight the widespread presence and botanical importance of the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Morus celtidifolia is a species known to encompass several different botanical names within its taxonomic history. It is frequently identified by the synonym Morus albida in various scientific records. Additionally, researchers may encounter this plant listed under the name Morus arbuscula or Morus betulifolia. Other recognized synonyms include Morus canina and Morus corylifolia, reflecting the complexity of its classification. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Morus celtidifolia is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant belongs to the order Rosales, showcasing its evolutionary connections to other diverse species. Further narrowing its identity, it is categorized under the genus Morus. Ultimately, this botanical lineage places the species firmly within the Moraceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Morus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Morus celtidifolia is widely distributed across Northern America and throughout much of Mexico. Its presence spans the diverse landscapes of Central Mexico, stretching into the Gulf regions. This plant can also be found thriving in the Northeast and Southeast portions of the country. Furthermore, its natural range extends into the Northwest territories of Mexico. These various locations highlight the expansive and adaptable nature of the species across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Morus celtidifolia is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This resilient plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 7.92 meters. Its structural integrity allows it to stand firmly as a prominent feature within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Morus celtidifolia has demonstrated significant biological potential through recent studies of its leaf extracts. Research indicates that the plant possesses notable antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, particularly against specific Gram-positive bacterial strains. Additionally, the extracts exhibit strong antioxidant activity, which was measured through its ability to scavenge free radicals. The plant also shows significant cytotoxic activity, showing effectiveness against both brine shrimp and human cancer cell lines such as MCF-7 and HeLa. These findings represent the first comprehensive report on the diverse medicinal activities found within the leaves of this species.
Compounds
Conditions
Morus celtidifolia exhibits significant antibacterial properties against several medically important bacteria. Specifically, the plant extracts demonstrate the ability to treat Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecalis. Research also indicates that the plant is effective in treating Enterobacter aerogenes and Enterobacter cloacae. Furthermore, the medicinal plant shows therapeutic potential against Escherichia coli. These findings highlight the broad antimicrobial efficacy of Morus celtidifolia against these specific bacterial strains.
Preparations
Morus celtidifolia is prepared as various organic extracts to examine its medicinal potential. Specifically, the plant is processed into a hexanic extract to test for antibacterial activity against Gram-positive strains. It is also prepared as a methanolic extract, which demonstrates superior cytotoxic and antioxidant properties. Furthermore, Morus celtidifolia is prepared as a non-polar extract for comparative biological analysis. These diverse preparation methods allow for the detailed evaluation of the plant's chemical effectiveness.
Parts used
Morus celtidifolia is a medicinal plant belonging to the Moraceae family that offers significant therapeutic potential through its leaves. Recent research has focused on examining the organic extracts derived specifically from these leaves to determine their biological activities. The study highlights that leaf extracts possess notable antibacterial properties, particularly against certain Gram-positive bacterial strains. Furthermore, the methanolic extracts of the leaves demonstrate impressive antioxidant and cytotoxic capabilities when tested against various cell lines. This investigation marks the first formal report on the diverse medicinal benefits provided by the leaves of Morus celtidifolia.