Populus nigra
Populus nigra · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Populus nigra is a botanical species noted for the diverse pharmacological activities found within its leaves. Scientific studies have identified key chemical constituents in the plant, including flavonoids, ferulic acid, and p-coumaric acid. When prepared as ethanolic tinctures or methylene chloride-methanolic extracts, these leaves exhibit significant ACE-inhibitor, analgesic, and anthelmintic properties. These biological effects make the plant a subject of interest for managing various health conditions such as arthritis, gout, rheumatism, and cough. Additionally, caution is advised due to its documented allergenic potential.
- Synonyms
- Aigiros Nigra
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Populus nigra is a distinctive tree species recognized by a diverse array of names across various cultures and languages. In English-speaking regions, it is most commonly referred to as the Black-poplar. Moving through different linguistic landscapes, the tree is known as Arbra nèira and Aethnen Ddu. Slavic traditions identify the plant through the names Carny topoł and Crna topola. These varied nomenclature patterns highlight the widespread presence and cultural significance of this species globally.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Populus nigra is a widely recognized species of poplar known for its distinctive characteristics and ecological importance. Within botanical literature, this tree is frequently identified by its synonym, Aigiros nigra. Understanding these nomenclatural variations is essential for researchers tracking the plant's distribution and history. While the names may differ across various texts, they both refer to the exact same biological entity. Recognizing these synonyms ensures clarity and accuracy when documenting the diverse lineage of this species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Populus nigra is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Malpighiales. The species is a prominent member of the genus Populus, showcasing the unique characteristics of its lineage. Furthermore, it finds its specific botanical home within the family Salicaceae. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the evolutionary history of this tree.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Populus nigra exhibits a widespread geographic presence that spans across several distinct regions. Its distribution extends throughout Africa, encompassing much of the continent's northern reaches. Specifically, the species is well-documented in Northern Africa, with notable populations found in Algeria and Libya. Furthermore, the plant thrives within the Macaronesia archipelago, reaching the unique environments of the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands. This broad range highlights the remarkable adaptability of the species across diverse Mediterranean and Atlantic landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Populus nigra is a self-supporting tree characterized by its robust and distinct growth form. This species displays a significant range in stature, with smaller specimens reaching a minimum height of 3 meters. Many individuals develop into substantial trees that can reach a maximum height of 40 meters. Interestingly, certain exceptional specimens are known to push even further, exceeding a minimum threshold of 41.5 meters. These varying dimensions highlight the impressive adaptability and scale of this remarkable tree.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Populus nigra is recognized for its rich phytochemical profile, most notably containing a high concentration of flavonoids within its leaves. The plant's buds are particularly significant as they contain bioactive flavanones such as pinocembrin and pinostrobin. These specific compounds contribute to the species' documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in cellular models. Furthermore, chemical analyses of its bud exudates have identified the presence of important phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid. Together, these diverse chemical constituents highlight the therapeutic potential of the species in natural health applications.
Conditions
Populus nigra leaf-buds are traditionally utilized as a medicinal treatment for cough and skin injuries. Research indicates that extracts from this species can effectively treat AgNPs induced inflammation by decreasing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates a protective role against cytotoxicity in HGF-1 cells. Due to its high xanthine oxidase inhibitory potential, Populus nigra is also recognized for its ability to treat gout and arthritis.
Preparations
Populus nigra is prepared as ethanolic tinctures to evaluate its nematocidal properties against parasitic nematode larvae. This specific species is also prepared as methylene chloride-methanolic extracts to investigate its medicinal potential. Research indicates that these methylene chloride-methanolic extracts of Populus nigra exhibit the highest xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity among the tested species. Furthermore, the aqueous solutions of its alcohol tinctures have demonstrated significant anthelmintic effectiveness in vitro. Through these different preparation methods, the plant's pharmacological value in treating conditions like gout and rheumatism is highlighted.
Parts used
Populus nigra possesses leaves that serve as a significant source of bioactive secondary metabolites. Research indicates that these leaves contain a diverse and similar set of flavonoids compared to other poplar hybrids. Notably, studies have demonstrated that the leaves of this species hold the highest concentration of flavonoids among the analyzed varieties. These phytochemicals contribute to a robust antioxidant potential, which can be measured through various biochemical assays. Consequently, the leaf components of Populus nigra are highly valued for their chemical complexity and therapeutic possibilities.