Adina pilulifera
Adina pilulifera · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Adina pilulifera is a botanical species primarily studied for the diverse chemical properties found within its roots. Researchers have extensively investigated these roots to isolate specific bioactive compounds through various extraction methods. Key preparations used in scientific studies include the ethyl acetate fraction of the ethanol extract and the n-butanol fraction of the ethanol extract. These specialized fractions allow for a detailed analysis of the plant's phytochemical profile and potential medicinal value. Understanding these root-derived components is essential for uncovering the therapeutic possibilities inherent in this plant.
- Synonyms
- Nauclea Adinoides · Adina Globiflora · 11 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Adina pilulifera is a distinctive plant species known by several different names across various cultures and languages. In English-speaking regions, it is frequently referred to by the common name Chinese Buttonbush. The plant also holds specific nomenclature in Japan, where it is known as タニワタリノキ. Within Chinese contexts, it is identified by the names 水团花 or the traditional character variant 水團花. These diverse regional labels highlight the widespread recognition and botanical importance of this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Adina pilulifera is a taxonomically complex species that is frequently identified by several different botanical names. Within scientific literature, it is widely recognized as a synonym for Adina globiflora. This relationship extends to specific varieties, including Adina globiflora var. macrophylla and Adina globiflora var. tonkinensis. Furthermore, researchers often encounter this plant under the names Adina nipponica or Adina peduncularis. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for ensuring accuracy in botanical classification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Adina pilulifera is a distinct botanical specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further finds its place within the order Gentianales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Rubiaceae family, it shares characteristics with many other well-known flowering plants. Ultimately, this species is defined by its classification within the genus Adina.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Adina |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Adina pilulifera is a versatile species with a broad geographical presence across several major regions. It is widely distributed throughout the temperate zones of Asia, specifically thriving within various parts of China including the South-Central and Southeast regions. The plant's range also extends to the island of Hainan and reaches further north into the Eastern Asian landscapes of Japan. Beyond its temperate habitats, the species also occupies tropical environments within the Indo-China region, such as Laos. This diverse distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to both temperate and tropical climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Adina pilulifera is characterized by its distinctive growth form as a tree. This species is entirely self-supporting, maintaining its structure independently within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Adina pilulifera is a plant traditionally utilized by the Yao minority in Southern China. Recent chemical studies have successfully isolated and characterized several key constituents from its ethanol extracts. Notably, the research confirmed that Adina pilulifera contains the compound morroniside. Furthermore, the plant was found to contain sarracenin, marking a significant finding for the species. These specific compounds represent the first time they have been identified within the Adina genus.
Conditions
Preparations
Adina pilulifera is prepared as the roots for the isolation of various triterpenoid saponins and known compounds. This plant is also prepared as an ethyl acetate fraction of an ethanol extract to obtain specific chemical constituents like sarracenin and morroniside. Furthermore, Adina pilulifera is prepared as an n-butanol fraction of an ethanol extract to facilitate the isolation of additional compounds. These diverse preparation methods allow researchers to characterize different structural components of the species. Through these specific extractions, both the roots and various solvent fractions yield unique chemical profiles.
Parts used
Adina pilulifera serves as a significant source of complex chemical compounds for botanical research. Recent studies have focused on isolating specific triterpenoid saponins directly from the plant's root system. Researchers successfully identified two new saponins, specifically derivatives of pyrocincholic and cincholic acid, from these root tissues. Through the application of advanced spectroscopic methods, the precise molecular structures of these substances were determined. This discovery highlights the diverse chemical potential held within the root components of the species.