Vitis vinifera
Vitis vinifera · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (11 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Vitis vinifera is a versatile plant species widely recognized for the diverse therapeutic activities found within its seeds, leaves, and fruits. These components contain potent bioactive chemicals such as resveratrol, flavonols, anthocyanins, and aescin, which contribute to its extensive medicinal profile. Research highlights its significant antioxidant activity, demonstrating a capacity to combat lipid peroxidation and mitigate effects from substances like rotenone. Furthermore, the plant shows promise in addressing complex health conditions through its anticancer, analgesic, and antiarrhythmic properties. Various preparations, ranging from crude extracts to specialized formulations like Ankaferd, continue to be studied for their profound biological impacts.
- Synonyms
- Vitis Vinifera Var. Maroccana · Vitis Vinifera Var. Corniculala · 143 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Vitaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Seed · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Vitis vinifera is a versatile plant recognized by a wide array of regional and traditional names. Depending on the local culture, it may be referred to as Almindelig Vin or simply as Asma. In certain areas, the plant is also known by the names Axina and Bideira. Furthermore, it carries the distinct designation of Chiqap uwas in specific linguistic contexts. These diverse monikers highlight the global reach and cultural significance of this widespread species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Vitis vinifera is a complex botanical subject that has been documented under several different names throughout history. Scientific literature occasionally identifies this species using the synonym Cissus vinifera. Researchers have also encountered it listed as Maerklinia viridis in various taxonomic records. Furthermore, the plant is sometimes referred to as Noachia macrophylla or Schamsia ligustrica in older texts. Finally, the name Sickleria brevicirrhata serves as another historical synonym used to describe this widespread vine.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Vitis vinifera belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, representing a significant part of the botanical world. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Moving down the taxonomic hierarchy, the plant falls under the order Vitales. It is further categorized into the family Vitaceae, which defines its specific biological characteristics. Finally, this species is a distinguished member of the genus Vitis.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Vitales |
| Family | Vitaceae |
| Genus | Vitis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Vitis vinifera exhibits a wide-ranging distribution that spans across several key regions of the globe. The plant is prominently found throughout Africa, with specific populations documented in Northeast Tropical Africa and Chad. Its presence extends into the Macaronesia archipelago, where it flourishes in unique island environments. Within this region, the species can be located in the Azores, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, and Madeira. This diverse geographic spread highlights the adaptable nature of the species across varied African and Atlantic landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Vitis vinifera is characterized by its distinct shrub-like growth form. As an obligatory climber, this plant relies on external supports to ascend toward the light. Depending on its environment, it can reach a minimum height of 2 meters. In more optimal conditions, the vine typically grows to a range between 12.5 and 30 meters. This impressive vertical reach allows the species to dominate its local ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Vitis vinifera has demonstrated a diverse range of therapeutic activities that highlight its significant medicinal potential. Research indicates that this plant possesses potent anticancer properties, offering a promising alternative for treating various cancer cell lines. Its antimicrobial capabilities are also well-documented, showing effectiveness against multiple microbial strains and providing antiadhesive benefits against oral biofilms. Furthermore, the plant exhibits notable analgesic effects, which can assist in the management of pain and inflammation. Finally, studies have identified Vitis vinifera as a candidate for antiarrhythmic interventions, potentially aiding in the regulation of irregular heartbeats.
Compounds
Vitis vinifera is a versatile plant recognized for its rich profile of biologically active compounds. Research indicates that the plant contains resveratrol, a valuable stilbene known for its potential dietary protection against cardiovascular disease and cancer. Additionally, extracts from the plant are found to contain flavonols, anthocyanin, and catechin, all of which contribute to its significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In certain medicinal formulations, Vitis vinifera is also utilized in combinations where aescin can be specifically analyzed alongside its extract. These diverse phytochemical constituents support the traditional use of the grapevine in treating various inflammatory and pain-related conditions.
Conditions
Vitis vinifera exhibits potent antioxidant activity that can be enhanced through phenylalanine application or utilized in food packaging to maintain nutritional quality. The plant possesses significant anti-cancer properties, with specific compounds like resveratrol and trans-astringin demonstrating potential for cancer chemoprevention. It effectively treats lipid peroxidation by reducing peroxide values in food products and normalizing oxidative stress in the central nervous system. Research indicates that grape seed extracts can mitigate neurotoxicity elicited by rotenone by rescuing mitochondrial respiration and protecting dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, Vitis vinifera serves as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease through its ability to regulate amyloid beta-degrading enzymes.
Preparations
Vitis vinifera is prepared as crude extracts to investigate its significant antibacterial activity and its potential for purifying resveratrol. This plant is also a key component of Ankaferd, a standardized medicinal mixture of several plants. As part of this mixture, Vitis vinifera is prepared as Ankaferd Blood Stopper, which has been approved for managing external hemorrhage and dental surgery bleedings. Furthermore, the hydroalcoholic leaf extract of Vitis vinifera is prepared as EVV to study its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. In various research contexts, Vitis vinifera is prepared as extracts to evaluate their efficacy as potential adjuvant agents in treating colorectal cancer.
Parts used
Vitis vinifera is a versatile plant that offers diverse therapeutic benefits through its various biological components. The seeds of this species are highly valued for their antioxidant properties and their significant potential to enhance wound healing processes. Additionally, the leaves serve as a rich source of phenolic compounds, providing potent anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging capabilities. The fruits are also widely recognized, both for their traditional use in treating gastrointestinal issues and as a primary source of bioactive polyphenols. Together, these different parts of the grapevine contribute to a wide array of medicinal and nutritional applications.