Sambucus ebulus
Sambucus ebulus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Sambucus ebulus is a versatile botanical species known for its diverse medicinal properties derived from its flowers, leaves, fruits, and rhizomes. Scientific studies have highlighted the significant antioxidant activity present within its various crude extracts. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates potent antifungal capabilities, specifically showing efficacy against pathogens such as Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans. Advanced preparations, including silver nanoparticle formulations (Ag-NPs-S. ebulus), are also being explored for their therapeutic potential. These combined attributes suggest that the plant may play a role in treating complex conditions like blood poisoning.
- Synonyms
- Ebulum Humile · Sambucus Ebulus Var. Laciniata · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Viburnaceae
- Distribution
- Northern America
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Sambucus ebulus is a plant known by a diverse array of regional names across different cultures. It is frequently referred to by the common names Abdovina and Aptovina. In certain areas, people may also identify the species as Andura. Furthermore, the plant is widely recognized as Attich, a name that holds particular significance in Germany as Attich (DE). This variety of nomenclature highlights the widespread presence and local recognition of the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Sambucus ebulus is a complex species characterized by several important botanical synonyms. Within its taxonomic history, the plant has been identified as Ebulum humile and Sambucus deborensis. Further classifications include the specific form known as Sambucus ebulus f. xerophila. The species also encompasses the subspecies Sambucus ebulus subsp. laciniata. Finally, the variety Sambucus ebulus var. citrina represents another recognized name within this botanical group.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Sambucus ebulus is a distinct botanical entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Dipsacales, which helps define its structural characteristics. The plant is a member of the Viburnaceae family, showcasing its specific evolutionary connections. Finally, it is identified by its taxonomic placement within the genus Sambucus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Sambucus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Sambucus ebulus is a versatile species with a wide-reaching geographical presence across multiple continents. Its distribution spans the diverse landscapes of Africa and the Macaronesian islands, including the specific territory of Madeira. Within the African continent, the plant is notably established throughout Northern Africa, specifically within the borders of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Beyond these southern regions, the species also thrives in the temperate zones of Asia. Specifically, it can be found growing within the unique environment of the Caucasus and the North Caucasus regions.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Sambucus ebulus is a self-supporting herb that maintains a sturdy structure throughout its growth cycle. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.5 meters in optimal conditions. Depending on its environment, its stature can vary significantly, often starting at a minimum of 0.5 meters. In many instances, the species settles into a more consistent height range beginning at 0.85 meters. These varying dimensions highlight the flexible growth habits characteristic of this herbaceous species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Sambucus ebulus was among the traditional Persian medicinal plants investigated for its potential to combat various pathogenic fungi. Researchers utilized the agar well diffusion method to assess how the extracts and sub-fractions of this plant interact with clinical isolates. The study tested the plant's efficacy against a diverse range of species, including Aspergillus, Trichophyton, and the yeast Candida albicans. While the investigation focused on the antifungal activity of several plants, it ultimately highlighted the specific inhibitory capabilities of the tested extracts. This research contributes to the broader understanding of how species like Sambucus ebulus might be utilized in addressing mycotic infections.
Compounds
Conditions
Sambucus ebulus exhibits significant medicinal potential through its ability to target various pathogenic organisms. The plant has been studied for its effects on fungi, demonstrating activity against Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus fumigatus. Furthermore, it shows efficacy in addressing Candida albicans during antifungal evaluations. Beyond fungal targets, Sambucus ebulus extract has proven successful in treating breast cancer (BC) by decreasing cell proliferation and viability. This therapeutic effect is highly specific, as the extract efficiently clears BC cells in both in vitro and in vivo models without causing toxicity to normal cells.
Preparations
Sambucus ebulus is prepared as various extracts, including petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol versions used to study cancer cell viability. This plant is also prepared as Ag-NPs-S. ebulus, specifically silver nanoparticles, to evaluate anti-toxoplasmic effects against T. gondii. Research indicates that Sambucus ebulus is prepared as crude extracts to test for potent urease inhibitory activity. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as extract powder for the assessment of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacities. These diverse preparation methods allow for the investigation of the plant's medicinal properties across multiple biological targets.
Parts used
Sambucus ebulus is a medicinal plant that possesses a diverse range of bioactive components found within its various morphological structures. Research indicates that the flowers and leaves are particularly notable for containing a high diversity and quantity of phenolic antioxidants. The plant's therapeutic potential extends to its roots and rhizomes, which have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties in animal models. Furthermore, extracts derived from the fruit have shown promising anti-parasitic activity against Toxoplasma gondii. By utilizing different parts of the plant, scientists continue to uncover unique phytochemical profiles that contribute to its complex medicinal utility.