Oxalis erythrorhiza
Oxalis erythrorhiza · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Oxalis erythrorhiza is a botanical species recognized for its significant bioactive potential in pharmacological studies. Research into this plant has specifically highlighted the presence of the chemical compound Embelin. When subjected to various laboratory processes, the plant yields valuable dichloromethane (DCM) extracts and hexane (H) extracts. These preparations have demonstrated notable efficacy against various challenging biological conditions, including dermatophytes and other fungi. Consequently, the plant serves as a vital subject for developing new antifungal treatments.
- Synonyms
- Acetosella Erythrorhiza · Acetosella Bryoides · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Oxalidaceae
- Distribution
- Northern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Oxalis erythrorhiza is a distinctive plant known to many locals by its common name, Boldo de la sierra. This species holds a significant place in regional botanical discussions due to its unique characteristics. Its identity is often closely linked to the traditional knowledge passed down through generations. Understanding its specific nomenclature helps researchers connect the plant to its cultural heritage. Consequently, recognizing it as Boldo de la sierra is essential for anyone studying its role in the ecosystem.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Oxalis erythrorhiza is a botanical species that is identified through a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Throughout various scientific studies, this plant has been referred to by several different names, including Acetosella bryoides and Acetosella erythrorhiza. It is also documented under the nomenclature of Oxalis bryoides and Oxalis guessfeldtii. Furthermore, historical records link the species to the name Oxalis hosseana. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate classification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Oxalis erythrorhiza is a fascinating species that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Oxalidales, showcasing its specific evolutionary path. It is a member of the diverse genus Oxalis, which contains many well-known relatives. Ultimately, this species is nested within the family Oxalidaceae, defining its unique botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Oxalis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Oxalis erythrorhiza is a notable species primarily distributed throughout the vast regions of Southern America. Its presence is particularly well-documented across the southern reaches of South America, spanning diverse ecological zones. Within Argentina, the plant can be found stretching from the northwest down to the southern territories. The species also occupies significant portions of Chile, ranging from the northern regions to the central areas. This broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive across various latitudes within the southern continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Oxalis erythrorhiza is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinctive growth form. This botanical structure allows the plant to maintain its position within its natural habitat without external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Oxalis erythrorhiza serves as a vital botanical source for the bioactive benzoquinone known as embelin. Scientific analysis has successfully isolated this compound, along with several alkyl phenols, from collections of the plant found in Argentina. Research indicates that embelin possesses significant inhibitory effects against various bacteria and dermatophytic fungi. Furthermore, the compound has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lyse Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes, which is particularly relevant given the plant's traditional use in treating Chagas' disease. These findings highlight the medicinal potential of the chemical constituents found within Oxalis erythrorhiza.
Conditions
Oxalis erythrorhiza possesses significant medicinal properties, including the ability to treat various fungi. Its extracts demonstrate a broad spectrum of action against dermatophytes, effectively inhibiting these specific fungal types. Additionally, the plant shows antibacterial efficacy by treating both methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Beyond its antimicrobial capabilities, the species is traditionally utilized to treat heart complains. These cardiac symptoms are often related to Chagas' disease, which is endemic to the San Juan Province in Argentina.
Preparations
Oxalis erythrorhiza is prepared as dichloromethane (DCM) extracts to study its antimicrobial properties. These DCM extracts demonstrated activity against both methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, Oxalis erythrorhiza is prepared as hexane (H) extracts for scientific assessment. Both the hexane and dichloromethane preparations of this plant exhibited a broad spectrum of action against fungi. Specifically, these extracts were effective in inhibiting all tested dermatophytes.