Sambucus peruviana
Sambucus peruviana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Sambucus peruviana is a remarkable shrub native to the Andean regions of South America. This botanical species is highly valued for its diverse therapeutic potential within traditional medicine. Current scientific interest focuses primarily on the application of total extracts derived from its various components. These concentrated preparations are being studied for their complex array of bioactive compounds. Understanding the full chemical profile of these extracts is essential for optimizing their medicinal efficacy.
- Synonyms
- Sambucus Canadensis Acutiloba · Sambucus Canadensis F. Acutiloba · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Viburnaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Sambucus peruviana is a versatile plant known by several different names across various regions. It is most frequently recognized by its common name, the Peruvian elder. In many local contexts, it is also simply referred to as saúco or sauco. Some enthusiasts further distinguish the species by calling it sauco grande to denote its scale. Additionally, the plant is sometimes identified as tilo, showcasing the diverse linguistic labels used to describe it.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Sambucus peruviana is a complex taxon that is frequently identified by several different botanical synonyms. In various taxonomic records, it has been classified under names such as Sambucus canadensis acutiloba and its form equivalent, Sambucus canadensis f. acutiloba. Researchers have also linked the species to Sambucus canadensis var. oreopola and Sambucus graveolens. Furthermore, the plant is sometimes recognized as Sambucus nigra subsp. peruviana in specific scientific contexts. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for maintaining accuracy in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Sambucus peruviana is a fascinating species that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast botanical world, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Dipsacales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. This species is a proud member of the genus Sambucus, which connects it to many other well-known shrubs. Finally, it is categorized within the Viburnaceae family, completing its detailed taxonomic profile.
| 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 peruviana maintains a widespread presence throughout much of Northern America and Mexico. Its geographic reach is particularly extensive within Mexico, spanning from the central regions to the northeast. The plant is also frequently found across the southeast and southwest territories of the country. Additionally, its natural distribution extends into the coastal areas of the Mexico Gulf. This diverse range demonstrates the species' ability to adapt to various environmental conditions across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Sambucus peruviana is a distinctive plant characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form as a tree. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, this species typically reaches a height of at least 2 meters. While some specimens may only reach a modest 3 meters, others can grow significantly larger. In optimal settings, the plant can achieve a substantial stature with a maximum height of 10 meters. This impressive range allows the species to adapt beautifully to various landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Sambucus peruviana demonstrates significant antimicrobial activity through its total flavonoid extracts. This medicinal plant was screened specifically for its ability to combat various infectious agents. The research confirms that the species effectively treats both Gram positive and Gram negative microorganisms. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of the plant's chemical compounds against a broad spectrum of microbes. Consequently, the flavonoids within Sambucus peruviana serve as potent agents in inhibiting diverse bacterial groups.
Preparations
Sambucus peruviana is prepared as total extracts for the purpose of scientific evaluation. These specific extracts were utilized during a screening process to determine antimicrobial activity. Researchers focused on the flavonoids contained within these preparations to study their effects. The study tested these total extracts against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. This methodology allowed for the assessment of the plant's medicinal properties through its concentrated chemical components.