Salvia coccinea

Salvia coccinea · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Salvia coccinea is a versatile botanical species known for its diverse range of therapeutic potential. Research into its methanol extracts, particularly from the leaves, has revealed significant anticancer, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. These biological effects are driven by key chemical constituents such as beta-sitosterol, betulin, flavonoids, and apigenin. Furthermore, the plant shows promise in managing conditions like alanine transaminase levels, asthma, and pain through its analgesic and antiasthmatic properties. Consequently, this plant remains a subject of great interest in pharmacological studies due to its multifaceted healing capabilities.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Horminum Coccineum · Salvia Mollissima · 10 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Lamiaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Leaf

Classification

Common Names

Salvia coccinea is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional and traditional names. Across various cultures, it is affectionately known as Aceitilla extranjera or Banderilla. Some enthusiasts also refer to this vibrant species as Banderilla colorada to highlight its striking hues. Depending on the local dialect, you may encounter it called Cizana. Finally, it is warmly recognized by the charming common name Country belle.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Salvia coccinea is a versatile species that is recognized by several different botanical names within scientific literature. This plant is frequently associated with the synonym Horminum coccineum in various historical records. Taxonomists also identify several distinct forms and varieties, including Salvia coccinea f. pseudococcinea and Salvia coccinea var. pseudococcinea. Furthermore, the plant's diverse growth habits are reflected in the synonyms Salvia coccinea pumila and Salvia coccinea var. minima. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Salvia coccinea belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the vascular plants. The species falls under the order Lamiales, a group known for its distinct botanical characteristics. Further refinement shows that it is a member of the Lamiaceae family, which includes many well-known aromatic herbs. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its placement within the genus Salvia, connecting it to many other beloved flowering species.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Lamiales
Family Lamiaceae
Genus Salvia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Identification

Morphology

Salvia coccinea is a self-supporting herb characterized by its upright and sturdy growth form. This versatile plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.5 meters in favorable conditions. However, it can also maintain a more compact stature, with a minimum height of only 0.5 meters. These varying dimensions make it an adaptable choice for many different garden landscapes.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Salvia coccinea is a medicinal plant that offers a diverse array of therapeutic benefits due to its rich phytochemical profile. Research highlights its potent antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and combat the damage caused by free radicals. The plant also demonstrates significant antidiabetic activity by helping to control blood glucose levels and improve insulin resistance. Furthermore, its antimicrobial capabilities make it an effective candidate for addressing various bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Finally, the bioactive constituents within Salvia coccinea provide anticancer potential by modulating pathways related to tumor cell metastasis.

Compounds

Salvia coccinea is a versatile medicinal plant recognized for its rich profile of diverse bioactive compounds. Phytochemical investigations have revealed that the plant contains important triterpenes such as betulin, along with various phytosterols including beta-sitosterol and beta-sitosterol 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside. Furthermore, the plant is a significant source of flavonoids, which contribute to its extensive therapeutic potential. A key constituent within this group is apigenin, a compound noted for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these chemical constituents highlight the plant's importance in pharmacological innovation and traditional medicine.

Conditions

Salvia coccinea demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by reducing the increase in ROS production caused by hyperglycemia. The plant also acts to inhibit Lactate dehydrogenase levels in diabetic subjects. Furthermore, it exhibits anti-mycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain H37rv. Its medicinal properties extend to suppressing NF-κB dependent proinflammatory gene expression by influencing nuclear translocation. Finally, Salvia coccinea treats STZ-induced increases in serum lipid peroxidation, showcasing its potent antioxidant capabilities.

Preparations

Salvia coccinea is prepared as methanol extracts to investigate its potential bioactive properties. These specific extracts were tested for their efficacy against various clinical isolates of Candida species. During the evaluation, the methanol-based preparations demonstrated significant antifungal activity with MIC values below 31.25μg/mL. Additionally, the study utilized these extracts to assess antimicrobial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The results confirmed that the methanol extracts of Salvia coccinea possess notable inhibitory capabilities against these pathogens.

Parts used

Salvia coccinea is a versatile urban green plant known for its striking scarlet, lance-shaped flowers. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the plant's leaves serve as a significant source of essential micronutrients, including sodium, calcium, potassium, zinc, nitrogen, and copper. These nutrient-dense leaves play a crucial role in preventing various micronutrient-deficiency disorders among consumers. The presence of these vital elements within the foliage highlights the plant's importance in both nutritional and therapeutic contexts. Consequently, integrating this plant into dietary habits can offer substantial health benefits through its bioactive components.