Zanthoxylum rhoifolium
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse antimicrobial activities. Research focusing on the plant's root and stem components has demonstrated its potential to combat various pathogens, including E. coli, Poliovirus, and Staphylococcus aureus. To evaluate these therapeutic properties, scientists have utilized several preparation methods such as aqueous, ethanolic, and hydroalcoholic extracts. Specifically, investigations have examined the efficacy of 50% and 70% hydroalcoholic extracts alongside the ethanolic extract of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium (EEZR) stem barks. These studies highlight the importance of exploring different solvent concentrations to maximize the plant's medicinal potential.
- Synonyms
- Zanthoxylum Rhoifolium Var. Peltophorum · Fagara Rothschuhii · 38 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional monikers. Depending on the local culture, it is frequently referred to by the common names Espinho-de-vintém or Guarita. In other areas, people may call it Jubebê or Juva to distinguish it from surrounding flora. It is also widely known under the name Juvevê, showcasing the linguistic variety tied to its identity. These various names highlight the deep connection between the species and the different communities that utilize it.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a botanical species known to be associated with several different taxonomic names. Within scientific literature, it is recognized as being synonymous with Amyris multijuga. The plant is also frequently identified by its relationship to various Fagara species, including Fagara acutifolia and Fagara astrigera. Furthermore, its classification extends to Fagara coco var. formosana and Fagara microcarpa. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a fascinating species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further fits into the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a distinguished member of the genus Zanthoxylum. Finally, it finds its botanical home within the diverse family Rutaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Zanthoxylum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium exhibits a broad geographical presence that spans across both North and South America. In the northern regions, the species is widely distributed throughout Mexico, including its southeast and southwest territories. Moving southward, the plant establishes a significant foothold within the diverse landscapes of Brazil. Its Brazilian distribution is particularly extensive, covering the northern, northeast, and southern portions of the country. This wide-ranging habitat allows the species to thrive across multiple distinct ecological zones.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This species typically reaches a modest stature, though its height can vary depending on environmental conditions. Depending on its maturity, the plant may reach a maximum height of 10 meters or extend up to 15 meters. Such structural diversity allows it to establish a steady presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium exhibits notable antimicrobial properties according to recent pharmacological screenings of medicinal plants from the Araripe Basin. During biological testing, extracts of this species demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of specific pathogenic bacteria. Specifically, the plant showed measurable activity against Escherichia coli with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 256 μg/ml. It also proved effective against Staphylococcus aureus, achieving an inhibitory concentration of 64 μg/ml. These findings highlight the potential of the species as a source of natural compounds for fighting bacterial infections.
Compounds
Conditions
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium demonstrates significant medicinal potential by effectively treating various pathogenic agents. Research indicates that this plant species possesses antimicrobial properties against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, it has shown effectiveness in treating Leishmania amazonensis and the Poliovirus. In studies involving antimalarial remedies, the plant was also found to be capable of treating Plasmodium yoelii rodent malaria. These diverse biological activities highlight the therapeutic versatility of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium against bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Preparations
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is prepared as 50% and 70% hydroalcoholic extracts, as well as aqueous extracts, to test for antimicrobial activity. This plant is also prepared as an ethanolic extract in various studies involving biological screening. Specifically, the ethanolic extract of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium (EEZR) stem barks is utilized to evaluate its significant gastroprotective effects. Across these different preparations, the plant is frequently utilized in the form of an extract to investigate its medicinal properties.
Parts used
Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a plant species that offers significant therapeutic potential through its various morphological parts. Research indicates that benzo[c]phenanthridines isolated from the root bark of the plant exhibit potent leishmanicidal activity against Leishmania amazonensis. Additionally, the stem barks of the species are utilized in traditional medicine to treat various gastrointestinal ailments such as dyspepsia and colic. Scientific investigations have confirmed that ethanolic extracts from these stem barks provide substantial gastroprotective effects in animal models. By utilizing both the root and the stem, researchers can continue to explore the diverse pharmacological properties of this plant.