The Buxaceae family, commonly known as the boxwood family, consists of around 4 genera and approximately 100 species of trees and shrubs. This family is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, but its most famous members, such as Buxus (boxwood), are native to temperate regions. Boxwood plants are well known for their ornamental value, particularly in hedges, topiary, and as decorative shrubs in gardens.

General Description

Plants in the Buxaceae family exhibit the following characteristics:

• Leaves: The leaves of Buxaceae plants are generally simple, evergreen, and opposite or spirally arranged along the stem. The leaves are typically small, leathery, and have a smooth margin. In some species, the leaves are aromatic when crushed.
• Flowers: The flowers of Buxaceae plants are usually small, unisexual (either male or female), and lack petals in many species. They are often greenish, yellowish, or white and are arranged in clusters or small panicles. Some species have very inconspicuous flowers.
• Fruits: The fruit is typically a three-celled capsule that contains small seeds. In some species, the capsule is fleshy, resembling a berry.
• Growth Habit: The plants in this family are generally shrubs or small trees. Some species can grow into large, well-shaped shrubs, while others remain smaller, forming dense bushes.

Chemical Composition

The plants of the Buxaceae family contain various bioactive compounds, particularly alkaloids, that may have medicinal or toxic properties:

• Alkaloids: Some species of Buxus contain alkaloids such as buxine, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. These alkaloids are known for their effects on the central nervous system.
• Triterpenoids: Certain species in the Buxaceae family contain triterpenoids, which have been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
• Flavonoids: The leaves and other parts of some species contain flavonoids, which provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer effects.
• Saponins: The leaves of some Buxaceae species contain saponins, compounds with antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Physical Properties

• Size: The plants of the Buxaceae family vary in size, from small shrubs to medium-sized trees. Some species, such as Buxus sempervirens (common boxwood), typically grow between 1 and 3 meters in height, while others may be much smaller.
• Flowers and Fruits: The flowers are generally small and lack showy petals, and the fruit is typically a capsule that splits open to release seeds. In some species, the fruit may be fleshy, resembling a small berry.
• Leaves and Stems: The leaves are typically leathery and evergreen, which makes them well-suited for ornamental purposes in gardens. The stems are usually woody in mature plants.

Production and Harvesting

The Buxaceae family is mainly cultivated for ornamental purposes:

• Boxwood (Buxus spp.): Boxwood is widely cultivated as a hedge plant or topiary in gardens and landscapes. It is highly prized for its dense, evergreen foliage and its ability to be pruned into various shapes.
• Medicinal Uses: Some species of Buxus, particularly Buxus sempervirens, have been used in traditional medicine, though caution is advised due to the toxicity of certain compounds in the plant.

Applications

Medicinal

Some species in the Buxaceae family have been used in traditional medicine, though due to their toxicity, they must be used with care:

• Buxus sempervirens (Common Boxwood): The leaves and stems of boxwood have been used in folk medicine for various ailments, such as to treat coughs, colds, and gastrointestinal issues. However, the plant is toxic if consumed in large quantities due to the presence of alkaloids and other compounds.
• Anthelmintic: Historically, Buxus species have been used to treat intestinal parasites and worms, though this use has decreased due to safety concerns.
• Anti-inflammatory and Anticancer: Some compounds isolated from Buxus have shown anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties in preliminary studies.

Ornamental

Boxwood (Buxus spp.) species are highly valued for ornamental purposes:

• Topiary and Hedging: Boxwoods are extensively cultivated in gardens for topiary (shaping the plant into ornamental figures) and as dense, formal hedges. They are also used in landscaping for their ability to form neat, compact shapes.
• Ground Cover: Some species of Buxus are used as low-growing ground cover in gardens due to their dense, evergreen foliage and tolerance to shade.

Environmental and Ecological Uses

• Soil Erosion Control: Some species of Buxus are used in soil erosion control due to their dense growth habit, which helps stabilize the soil.
• Pollinator Support: The flowers of some Buxaceae species, although small and inconspicuous, can provide nectar for pollinators like bees, especially in early spring.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

While Buxaceae plants offer many benefits, there are important safety considerations:

• Toxicity: Many species of Buxus, particularly Buxus sempervirens, contain alkaloids that are toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. It is important to handle these plants with care and avoid ingestion.
• Sustainability: Overharvesting of wild Buxus species, particularly in areas where they are native, could threaten local populations. Sustainable cultivation and harvesting practices are important to ensure these plants remain available for ornamental and medicinal purposes.

INCI Functions

• Anti-inflammatory: Helps to reduce inflammation, particularly in cosmetic products designed for sensitive or irritated skin.
• Antioxidant: Protects the skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
• Antibacterial: Useful in formulations aimed at treating bacterial skin infections.
• Astringent: Helps tighten and firm the skin, often included in products for oily or acne-prone skin.

Conclusion

The Buxaceae family, particularly the Buxus genus, is valued primarily for its ornamental uses. Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is commonly cultivated for hedging, topiary, and ground cover due to its dense, evergreen foliage. Some species have medicinal uses, though they must be handled with care due to their toxicity.