Passiflora cincinnata
Passiflora cincinnata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Passiflora cincinnata is a botanical species that has gained scientific interest due to its potent antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Research focusing on the plant's leaves, stems, and seeds has revealed the presence of valuable phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids and various antioxidants. Various preparations, including ethanol extracts and hydroalcoholic extracts of the bark and leaves, have been studied for their therapeutic potential. These extracts have demonstrated significant efficacy against pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, investigations into these plant components suggest a promising role in addressing metabolic conditions like hepatic steatosis.
- Synonyms
- Passiflora Cincinnata Var. Minor · Passiflora Pisonis · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Passifloraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Passiflora cincinnata is a versatile plant recognized by a wide variety of regional names. Depending on the local area, it is frequently referred to as the crato passionvine or simply as bombolla. In many cultures, it is more commonly known by the name maracuja. It also carries specific regional designations such as maracujá-brabo and maracujá-da-caatinga. These diverse monikers reflect the plant's widespread presence and importance across different environments.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Passiflora cincinnata is a complex species that is frequently identified by several botanical synonyms. Taxonomic discussions often link this plant to the variety imbricata as well as the variety minor. Furthermore, researchers have historically categorized it under the names Passiflora perlobata and Passiflora pisonis. These overlapping classifications reflect the intricate evolutionary history and morphological diversity found within the genus. Understanding these various names is essential for accurate identification in both scientific and horticultural contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Passiflora cincinnata belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Malpighiales, a group containing many unique flowering plants. This specific plant is a member of the family Passifloraceae, which is known for its distinct floral structures. Ultimately, it is categorized under the well-known genus Passiflora, highlighting its botanical lineage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Passiflora cincinnata is a species primarily distributed throughout the diverse landscapes of South America. Its presence is notably widespread across Brazil, spanning from the northern regions to the southeast and west-central areas. The plant also thrives in the northeastern parts of Brazil, demonstrating a significant ecological footprint within the country. Beyond Brazilian borders, its range extends into northern South America, specifically within Venezuela. This broad geographic reach highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various subtropical environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Passiflora cincinnata relies on an obligatory climbing habit to navigate its environment and reach the sunlight necessary for its survival.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Passiflora cincinnata demonstrates significant pharmacological potential through its diverse bioactive properties. Research indicates that while the plant may not exhibit high antimicrobial activity on its own, its extracts can effectively potentiate the effects of conventional antibiotics against strains like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, the species serves as a rich source of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which contribute to its notable antioxidant capabilities. Tests using DPPH and ABTS methods have confirmed that extracts from various parts of the plant, particularly the stem, possess strong radical scavenging abilities. These combined findings highlight the value of P. cincinnata as a promising candidate for future pharmaceutical development.
Compounds
Passiflora cincinnata is a native Caatinga species that offers significant nutritional and medicinal value. Scientific analysis of its fruit peel reveals a rich chemical composition that supports its various health applications. Specifically, the ethanolic extract of the plant has been confirmed to contain flavonoids, particularly C-glycosides. Additionally, the flour derived from the peel is found to contain pectin along with antioxidant minerals. Together, these bioactive components contribute to the plant's demonstrated potential for improving lipid profiles.
Conditions
Passiflora cincinnata demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by potentiating the activity of antibiotics against the bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The plant also exhibits robust antioxidant activities, which are effectively measured through the beta-carotene bleaching test. Furthermore, studies on the fruit peel indicate that its extracts and flour can help treat hepatic steatosis by preventing its development in hyperlipidemic models. These diverse pharmacological properties highlight the plant's utility in addressing microbial resistance, oxidative stress, and lipid-related liver issues.
Preparations
Passiflora cincinnata is prepared as ethanol extracts through a process of maceration to study its phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities. Within these studies, a crude ethanol stem extract is specifically utilized to evaluate high levels of total polyphenols. The plant is also prepared as hydroalcoholic extracts of the bark, leaves, and pulp by homogenizing the material in 50% ethanol. These various hydroalcoholic preparations are investigated for their potential antimicrobial and antibiotic-modifying properties against specific bacterial strains. Together, these different extraction methods allow researchers to characterize the secondary metabolites and therapeutic potential of the species.
Parts used
Passiflora cincinnata serves as a significant botanical resource due to the diverse chemical properties found within its various anatomical structures. Researchers have focused on extracting bioactive compounds from the plant's leaf, stem, and seeds to explore their medicinal potential. For instance, the leaf extract has been noted for containing the highest total flavonoid content among the tested parts. Meanwhile, the stem extract demonstrates a high concentration of polyphenols and strong antioxidant activity. By investigating these specific components, scientists aim to utilize the plant's unique biological makeup for advancements in the pharmaceutical industry.