Rhamnus alaternus
Rhamnus alaternus, commonly known as Italian buckthorn, is a versatile evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. Renowned for its medicinal properties, the plant contains emodin, which possesses significant laxative and antimicrobial qualities. Historically utilized in traditional herbalism, it remains a subject of interest for contemporary pharmacological research.
- Scientific name: Rhamnus alaternus
- Family: Rhamnaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it is organized under the order Rosales and the family Rhamnaceae. Finally, its specific taxonomic placement is within the genus Rhamnus.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Rosales | WCVP |
| Family | Rhamnaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Rhamnus | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a notable presence across several regions in Northern and Southwestern Europe. In the northern reaches of its range, it can be found growing throughout Great Britain and Ireland. Moving toward the southwest, the species is well-established within the territory of France. Its distribution further extends to Mediterranean islands, specifically appearing in Corsica. Additionally, the plant is documented inhabiting the Balearic Islands.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Europe | Great Britain | WCVP |
| Northern Europe | Ireland | WCVP |
| 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 |
Chemicals
Rhamnus alaternus has 2 reported phytochemicals identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include emodin, kaempferol.
- Total chemicals
- 2
- Scientific sources
- 2
Most Reported Compounds
| Compound | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| emodin | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| kaempferol | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Rhamnus alaternus has 2 reported medicinal uses identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes.
- Total uses
- 2
- Scientific sources
- 2
Most Reported Uses
| Use | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| high blood pressure | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| type 2 diabetes | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |