Zanthoxylum rhoifolium is a species of
tree in the family
Rutaceae known by the common names mamica de cadela,[1]tambataru,[2] and prickly ash.[2][3] It is native to
South America.[4][5] It is a common tree on the
Cerrado.[6]
Description
This species is a
deciduous tree reaching up to 12 meters in height.[6] It produces a spherical black capsule about half a centimeter in length and width containing small, hard-coated seeds.[6]
Ecology
The tree is not shade tolerant, so it can be found in open areas in and around forests.[6]
Uses
This is a medicinal plant. The bark is used to treat toothache and earache.[1] It is used as an
anti-inflammatory.[4] It is used to treat
malaria.[4][7][8] Parts of the plant also have antibacterial[3] and fungicidal[9] action.
Chemical compounds
It contains
nitidine, an
alkaloid with anti-malarial action.[8] It is of commercial value as a component of herbal remedies for malaria.[4]
^Grandtner, M. M.; Chevrette, Julien (2013). Dictionary of Trees, Volume 2: South America: Nomenclature, Taxonomy and Ecology. Academic Press. p. 712.
ISBN9780123969545.