Oxalis erythrorhiza
Oxalis erythrorhiza, commonly known as red sorrel, is a perennial herb native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. Valued in traditional medicine, its rhizomes possess unique bioactive properties. It is frequently utilized to treat inflammatory conditions, digestive ailments, and various skin disorders, showcasing its significant ethnobotanical importance.
- Scientific name: Oxalis erythrorhiza
- Family: Oxalidaceae
- Native range: Southern America
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta within the class Equisetopsida. As a member of the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Oxalidales, it is specifically categorized under the family Oxalidaceae. Its taxonomic identity is further defined by its placement in the genus Oxalis.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Oxalidales | WCVP |
| Family | Oxalidaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Oxalis | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant is primarily distributed across the southern regions of South America. Its presence is notable in the northern and central parts of Chile. Additionally, the species can be found stretching into the northwestern territories of Argentina. It also occupies specific habitats located within southern Argentina. Consequently, its range covers a diverse longitudinal stretch across the southern half of the continent.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Southern South America | Argentina South | WCVP |
| Southern South America | Argentina Northwest | WCVP |
| Southern South America | Chile Central | WCVP |
| Southern South America | Chile North | WCVP |
Chemicals
Oxalis erythrorhiza has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include embelin.
- Total chemicals
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 1
Most Reported Compounds
| Compound | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| embelin | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Oxalis erythrorhiza 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 | ★☆☆☆☆ |