Botanical Overview
Salacia cordata is a species in the Celastraceae family. The staff-vine family (Celastraceae) includes shrubs, trees, and vines with simple, opposite or alternate leaves and small flowers. The fruits are often brightly colored capsules that split open to reveal seeds with fleshy arils. Many species produce alkaloids and terpenoids with insecticidal and medicinal properties. Phytochemical data for this species are limited at present.
Family Context
The Celastraceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Maytenus senegalensis — 24 documented uses
- Burning Bush — 18 documented uses
- Khat — 17 documented uses
- Maytenus boaria — 1 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Salacia cordata has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: betulin.
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. Additional phytochemical investigation could identify novel bioactive compounds in this plant.