Myrtus
Myrtus, commonly known as Myrtle, is a versatile evergreen shrub cherished for its fragrant white flowers and aromatic leaves. Historically significant in Mediterranean cultures, this medicinal plant offers potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable natural remedy for supporting respiratory health and skin vitality.
- Scientific name: Myrtus
- Family: Myrtaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized under the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Myrtales, falling into the family Myrtaeae. Finally, the medicinal plant is identified by the genus Myrtus.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Myrtales | WCVP |
| Family | Myrtaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Myrtus | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant is primarily distributed across the Mediterranean region of Southwestern Europe. Its presence can be found spanning several distinct island territories, including the Baleares and Corse. Additionally, the species is widely established throughout the mainland regions of France and Portugal. It also thrives in the specific coastal environments of Sardegna. Overall, these locations define the core geographical range for this medicinal species.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Southwestern Europe | Baleares | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Corse | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | France | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Portugal | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Sardegna | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Spain | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Albania | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Greece | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Italy | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Kriti | WCVP |
Activities
Myrtus has 4 reported activities identified across 4 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Antibacterial, Antihypertensive, Antioxidant, Hepatoprotective.
- Total activities
- 4
- Scientific sources
- 4
Most Reported Activities
| Activity | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Antibacterial | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Antihypertensive | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Antioxidant | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Hepatoprotective | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |