Viburnum jucundum
Viburnum jucundum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Viburnum jucundum is a distinctive botanical species recognized for its unique physiological properties. Researchers have focused on the plant's aerial parts to explore its potential medicinal and chemical value. Through specific laboratory processes, an acetonic extract of these upper structures can be successfully prepared. This concentrated substance serves as a primary subject for studying the plant's bioactive compounds. Understanding this extract is essential for advancing knowledge regarding the pharmacological profile of the species.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Viburnaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Viburnum jucundum is a versatile plant known by several distinct regional names. In certain areas, it is affectionately referred to as Gorgojo. It is also frequently identified by the common name Palo canohuatch. Depending on the local dialect and culture, it may be called tzotzilté. These diverse names reflect the deep connection between the plant and the various communities that live alongside it.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Viburnum jucundum is a member of the kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of botanical life. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Dipsacales. This specific plant is a proud representative of the family Viburnaceae. Furthermore, it is nested deeply within the genus Viburnum, which defines its unique characteristics. Through these scientific layers, the plant's precise place in the natural world is clearly established.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Viburnum jucundum exhibits a remarkably wide geographical range that stretches across several diverse regions. Its presence begins in Northern America and extends through Mexico, specifically encompassing both the southeast and southwest territories. The plant's distribution continues southward into Central America, where it can be found thriving in El Salvador. Additionally, it maintains a steady presence within the landscapes of Guatemala. This extensive reach highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various environments throughout the Americas.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Viburnum jucundum develops into a sturdy tree-like growth form as it matures. This plant is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its upright structure in various landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Viburnum jucundum contains specific bioactive compounds that exhibit potent cytotoxic activity against human cancer cell lines. Through bioactivity-guided fractionation of its aerial parts, researchers isolated several triterpenes and biflavonoids. Among these isolated constituents, ursolic acid was identified as the singular component demonstrating cytotoxic effects. This discovery marks the first successful phytochemical analysis linking this plant species to such inhibitory properties. Consequently, the presence of ursolic acid within Viburnum jucundum serves as the primary driver of its observed cytotoxic activity.
Preparations
Viburnum jucundum is prepared as an acetonic extract derived from its aerial parts. This specific extraction process allowed researchers to isolate several key compounds, including sterols, triterpenes, and biflavonoids. Through bioactivity-guided fractionation of the extract, constituents such as ursolic acid and lupeol-3-palmitate were identified. The study focused on these isolated substances to evaluate their potential cytotoxic activities. Consequently, the acetonic extract serves as the primary medium for analyzing the plant's phytochemical profile.