Saccharum officinarum
Saccharum officinarum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Saccharum officinarum is a versatile botanical species known for its wide range of therapeutic activities. Beyond its common uses, research highlights its potential antibacterial, antiophthalmic, and antihiccup properties. It has also demonstrated utility as an aggregant in various pharmaceutical formulations. Recent studies involving crude protein extraction suggest its role in managing conditions such as jaundice and cognitive decline. Furthermore, it shows promise in supporting patients experiencing dementia or mild cognitive impairment.
- Synonyms
- Saccharum Atrorubens · Saccharum Fragile · 28 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Poaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Saccharum officinarum is a versatile tropical grass that is recognized by many different names across the globe. In English-speaking regions, it is most famously known as Sugar Cane, while it is referred to as Kō in many Pacific Island cultures. The plant also carries specific regional designations, such as Ahwedeɛ and Cukrová třtina. In other linguistic contexts, it is identified as Cukrowiec lekarski to distinguish its unique properties. These diverse common names reflect the plant's widespread importance to various societies throughout history.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Saccharum officinarum is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, it is often referred to by the name Saccharum atrorubens to describe specific variations. Other recognized synonyms include Saccharum bataviense and Saccharum fragile, which reflect different historical classifications. Additionally, the plant has been documented under the names Saccharum glabrum and Saccharum luzonicum. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Saccharum officinarum is a fascinating biological entity that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Poales, highlighting its structural connections to other grasses. It specifically falls under the genus Saccharum, which defines its unique botanical characteristics. Finally, it is a distinguished member of the Poaceae family, cementing its place among the world's most significant grass species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Saccharum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Saccharum officinarum exhibits a diverse geographical presence across the African continent and its surrounding archipelagos. In East Tropical Africa, the species is notably established within the landscape of Tanzania. Its range also extends to the Macaronesian islands, including both the Canary Islands and Madeira. Moving toward the north, the plant can be found throughout Northern Africa, specifically within Algeria. Finally, its distribution reaches into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it is documented in Chad.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Saccharum officinarum is a robust herb that functions as a self-supporting plant within its natural habitat. This species typically reaches impressive heights, generally ranging from a minimum of 3 meters to a maximum of 6 meters. In many instances, the plant maintains a more substantial stature with a minimum height of 4.85 meters. Such significant vertical growth allows it to compete effectively for sunlight among other vegetation. Ultimately, these physical characteristics define the structural presence of this vital botanical species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Saccharum officinarum has been investigated for its potential medicinal properties within the context of finding alternatives to synthetic antibiotics. During recent research, crude protein extracts from this plant were analyzed using both Tris NaCl and PBS buffers to evaluate their antimicrobial potential. The study utilized various testing methods, including disc diffusion and agar well assays, to measure the inhibition of specific bacterial strains. However, the experimental results indicated that the Tris NaCl buffer extracts of this species did not demonstrate any measurable antibacterial activity against the tested bacteria. Consequently, while other plants in the study showed promise for drug synthesis, Saccharum officinarum did not exhibit the desired antibacterial effect in this specific trial.
Compounds
Conditions
Saccharum officinarum demonstrates significant biological utility, such as its ability to treat 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical-scavenging ability (DPPH) through its antioxidant phenolic profiles. The plant also functions effectively when treated with 700 ppm CO2, showing high enzyme activities in its C4 metabolic processes. Furthermore, Saccharum officinarum is recognized for its potential to treat alcoholic liver disease (ALD) due to its hepatoprotective properties. Research indicates that sugarcane top extracts can treat cognitive decline by rescuing spatial learning and memory deficits in senescence models. Conversely, the plant is also linked to mildewed sugarcane poisoning, a condition involving neurotoxic effects from plant and fungal toxins.
Preparations
Saccharum officinarum is prepared as a crude protein extraction to evaluate its potential medicinal properties. This extraction process was conducted using two distinct types of buffers, specifically Tris NaCl and PBS. The researchers utilized the Bradford assay within a spectrophotometer to confirm the presence of the extracted proteins. Although the preparation was successful, the resulting extracts from this plant did not exhibit any antibacterial activity during testing. Consequently, while the plant was processed for protein, it was not identified as a candidate for antimicrobial drug synthesis.