Boscia angustifolia is a shrub or small tree with lanceolate leaves commonly found in the savannah zones of Africa, from Senegal moving eastwards to Sudan. It is part of the Capparaceae family.[1] The plant is also known as the rough-leaved shepherds tree.
It is a smooth, grey barked shrub or small tree that is capable of reaching 7m (23ft) in height and with a short trunk.[2] It has leaves with simple, alternate arrangement; leaf-blade is lanceolate to oblong outline with a coriaceous and glabrous upper surface, short, fine hairs beneath; it is 1.5-5 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide, petiole is 2-7 mm long.[3][2] Flowers are greenish to white, terminal or axillary clustered in raceme type of inflorescence. Fruit is spherical berries, about 6-10 mm in diameter.[3]
Distribution
Occurs in the Sudan and Sahel zones of West Africa, from Senegal to Nigeria and eastwards towards the Red Sea where it has been identified in Sudan and Egypt[3] then southwards towards Northern South Africa.[2]
Chemistry
Test on parts of the species identified the methylated flavonoid, ombuin, the carboxylic acid compounds: lactic and quinic acid, and about three nitrogen methyl compounds including 1-methyl imino thieno [3,4b] naphthalene.[4][5]
Uses
The roots are used in decoctions to treat a variety of bacteria infection and other health issues including diarrhea, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, chest pain and boil.[6] Its leaves and fruit are used to induce purging and to act as a cholagogue.
↑ Maroyi, Alfred (October 2019). "A review of medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of Boscia angustifolia". Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research. 11 (10): 3420–3428. ProQuest2313059058.
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