Myrcianthes cisplatensis
Myrcianthes cisplatensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is a distinctive woody species native to specific regions of South America. This plant has gained scientific interest primarily due to the various therapeutic properties found within its tissues. Researchers frequently utilize aqueous extracts to isolate its bioactive compounds for pharmacological study. These water-based preparations serve as a primary method for exploring the plant's potential medicinal applications. Understanding the chemical profile of these extracts is essential for advancing botanical research.
- Synonyms
- Blepharocalyx Ellipticus · Eugenia Elliptica · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is a distinctive botanical species known by several different regional names. In certain areas, it is affectionately referred to by its common name, Güili. It is also frequently identified as the guayabo colorado, a name that reflects its specific characteristics. These varying labels highlight the cultural importance and local diversity surrounding the plant. Understanding these common names is essential for anyone studying its distribution and traditional uses.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is a species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several recognized synonyms. Throughout botanical studies, it has been identified under various names, including Blepharocalyx ellipticus and Eugenia elliptica. The plant is also frequently referred to in literature as Eugenia cisplatensis, a designation that includes the specific variety Eugenia cisplatensis var. angustifolia. Furthermore, taxonomic records have linked the species to the name Luma cisplatensis. Navigating these overlapping classifications is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify this particular plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is a distinctive biological entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Myrtales, which provides a specific structural framework for its development. The plant is a proud member of the family Myrtaceae, sharing traits with many other aromatic species. Ultimately, it finds its precise taxonomic home within the genus Myrcianthes.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Myrcianthes |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is a resilient species widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of Southern America. Its natural range extends significantly through Brazil, particularly within the southern regions of the country. The plant also maintains a strong presence in Southern South America, spanning the northeastern and northwestern reaches of Argentina. Furthermore, it can be found flourishing throughout the territories of Paraguay and Uruguay. This broad geographic footprint highlights the plant's ability to thrive across multiple national borders in the southern cone.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is a self-supporting species that typically adopts a tree-like growth form. It reaches a maximum height of approximately 6 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. This compact stature makes it a distinctive feature of its local ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Myrcianthes cisplatensis exhibits measurable antiviral activity against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in laboratory testing. During an ethnopharmacological screening of Argentine medicinal plants, aqueous extracts of this species were specifically assayed for their efficacy against RSV. The results indicated that the plant possesses antiviral properties against the virus with a 50% effective dose (ED50) ranging from 78 to 120 microg/ml. While it did not demonstrate antiherpetic activity like some other tested species, its impact on RSV remains a notable finding. These specific antiviral values justify further analysis due to the significant margin between the plant's maximal non-cytotoxic concentration and its effectiveness.
Preparations
Myrcianthes cisplatensis is prepared as aqueous extracts for use in ethnopharmacological screenings of Argentine medicinal plants. These specific extracts were tested in vitro to evaluate their potential antiviral activity against various infectious agents. While they did not demonstrate antiherpetic activity against herpes simplex virus type 1, they proved effective against the respiratory syncytial virus. The study measured the efficacy of these aqueous preparations using 50% effective dose values. This research highlights the specific way the plant is processed to study its medicinal properties.