Botanical Overview
Cornelian Cherry (Cornus mas) is a species in the Cornaceae family. This species belongs to the Cornaceae family, a group of flowering plants. Although comprehensive ethnobotanical records are limited, phytochemical studies have identified 15 compounds in this species, suggesting potential medicinal value.
General Description
Cornelian cherry, also known as the European cornel, is a species of shrub or small tree in the dogwood family Cornaceae native to Western Europe, Southern Europe, and Southwestern Asia.
Family Context
The Cornaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Chinese Dogwood — 25 documented uses
- American Dogwood — 15 documented uses
- Cornus macrophylla — 3 documented uses
- Japanese Aucuba — 2 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Cornelian Cherry has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Germany, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 15 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. The limited documentation available for this species represents an opportunity for ethnobotanical research.