Sideroxylon marginatum

Sideroxylon marginatum · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Sideroxylon marginatum is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Research focuses on evaluating its biological activities, specifically its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial properties. To explore these effects, various preparation methods are employed, ranging from aqueous extracts and infusions to more complex hydroethanolic formulations. Additionally, scientists utilize both ethanolic extracts and their aqueous counterparts to isolate bioactive compounds. Through these diverse extraction techniques, the medicinal value of this plant continues to be thoroughly investigated.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Calvaria Marginata · Sideroxylon Mirmulano Var. Edulis · 2 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Sapotaceae
Distribution
Africa
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Synonyms

Sideroxylon marginatum is a botanical species known by several different names within scientific literature. It is frequently identified by the synonym Calvaria marginata in various historical records. Researchers also refer to the plant as Sapota marginata depending on the specific taxonomic classification used. Furthermore, the species encompasses several varieties, including Sideroxylon mirmulano var. edulis and Sideroxylon mirmulano var. marginata. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for accurately identifying the plant across different studies.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Sideroxylon marginatum is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast botanical realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Ericales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. Furthermore, it is nested within the family Sapotaceae, which defines its biological characteristics. Ultimately, this plant is identified by its membership in the genus Sideroxylon.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Ericales
Family Sapotaceae
Genus Sideroxylon

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Sideroxylon marginatum is a distinctive plant species with a widely recognized geographical presence. Its natural distribution spans across the diverse landscapes of Africa and the volcanic terrains of Macaronesia. Additionally, the species can be found thriving within the unique environment of Cape Verde. These specific regions provide the essential ecological conditions necessary for its continued growth. Understanding these patterns is crucial for studying the botanical heritage of these interconnected territories.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Sideroxylon marginatum is a self-supporting plant that maintains its own structural integrity without the need for external support.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Sideroxylon marginatum is a native tree species from the Cabo Verde archipelago that plays a significant role in traditional medicinal practices. Scientific evaluations have demonstrated that its hydroethanolic extracts possess notable antioxidant properties, which are essential for combating oxidative stress. Additionally, the plant exhibits moderate antimicrobial activity, specifically showing effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria. Research also highlights its therapeutic potential through moderate antiplasmodial activity against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. These diverse biological activities underscore the importance of conserving this species for its potential ethnopharmacological contributions.

Compounds

Sideroxylon marginatum is a native medicinal plant from the Cabo Verde Islands that holds significant potential for human health. Research into its polyphenolic composition has revealed the presence of important bioactive compounds, including kaempferol and quercetin. These specific constituents contribute to the plant's overall chemical profile and its various biological activities. Beyond its chemical makeup, the ethanolic extracts of this species have demonstrated weak anti-inflammatory properties. Such findings enhance our understanding of this traditional remedy and may open new doors for its therapeutic use in medical treatments.

Conditions

Sideroxylon marginatum exhibits several therapeutic properties, including weak anti-inflammatory activity. The plant also demonstrates potential in managing diabetes by inhibiting carbohydrate digestive enzymes like α-glucosidase. This inhibitory action helps to effectively delay glucose absorption in the body. Furthermore, the species shows moderate antiplasmodial activity against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Consequently, these findings support the use of Sideroxylon marginatum as a traditional treatment for malaria infections.

Preparations

Sideroxylon marginatum is prepared as ethanolic extracts to evaluate its anti-inflammatory and antiplasmodial properties. The plant is also prepared as aqueous extracts (infusions) for testing its effectiveness against malaria parasites. Furthermore, Sideroxylon marginatum is prepared as hydroethanolic extracts, which have been found to be richer in phenolic compounds. These hydroethanolic preparations are often more bioactive than the plant's aqueous counterparts. Through these various preparation methods, the medicinal potential of the species is thoroughly investigated.

Parts used