Alangium chinense
What's the taxonomical classification of Alangium chinense?
Aliangium chinense belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this group, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Following its taxonomic hierarchy further, it falls under the order Cornales and is a member of the family Cornaceae. Finally, the plant is defined by its specific classification within the genus Aliangium and the species chinense.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Cornaceae |
| Genus | Alangium |
| Species | chinense |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Alangium chinense has an evergreen shrub or small tree structure characterized by opposite, elliptical leaves with entire margins and a glossy texture. The foliage typically exhibits a deep green color on the upper surface and a slightly paler underside. Small, inconspicuous flowers emerge from the leaf axils, often appearing in clusters. These flowers eventually develop into small, fleshy drupes that serve as the plant's fruit. The woody stems are sturdy and contribute to the compact, bushy habit of the species.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of East and Southeast Asia, including China, India, Vietnam, and various islands in the Malay Archipelago. It thrives primarily in warm, humid climates where rainfall is consistent throughout the year. Its natural range extends from the southern parts of the Asian continent toward the maritime territories of the Pacific. While it is widely distributed across these lush environments, it is most commonly found in forest margins and disturbed habitats. Cultivation has also spread the species to other tropical regions globally due to its aromatic properties.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant, commonly known as Alangium chinense, requires well-drained, loamy soil and consistent moisture levels within a subtropical or tropical climate to thrive.
Growers should plant these shrubs in locations that receive full sun to partial shade to ensure optimal leaf development. Regular fertilization with organic matter during the growing season supports its vigorous growth and eventual flowering. Pruning is also necessary to maintain the structure of the plant and encourage healthy new shoots.
Proper irrigation management is essential to prevent root rot while maintaining the humidity levels the species prefers.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant, Alangium chinense, is utilized medicinally through its leaves and roots to treat various ailments. The leaves are frequently prepared as a decoction to address inflammatory conditions and digestive issues. Meanwhile, the roots serve as a powerful component in traditional remedies for managing fever and skin infections. These different parts of the plant contain specific bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties. By employing both the foliage and the root system, practitioners can target a wide range of physiological symptoms.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", five novel phenolic glycosides were isolated from the dried leaves of Alangium chinense. These five compounds consist of 6'-O-galloylsalicin (1), 4',6'-di-O-galloylsalicin (2), 4',6'-O-(S)-hexahydroxydiphenoylsalicin (3), 4',6'-O-(R)-hexahydroxydiphenoylsalicin (4), and pyrocatechol 1-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (5). The structures of these 5 new compounds were determined using spectroscopic methods.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaf
- roots
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Alpinia chinense, has been utilized extensively within traditional Chinese medicine and the folk healing practices of the Miao people for centuries. In the Miao medicinal system, it is frequently employed to treat various ailments related to inflammation and digestive distress. Historical records indicate that practitioners used different parts of the plant to formulate remedies intended to dispel wind and clear heat from the body. Its aromatic properties were also valued for topical applications to soothe skin irritations. These long-standing traditions highlight the plant's diverse role in regional herbal pharmacopoeias.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", Alangium chinense (Lour.) Harms is a component of the core drug pair in the Jin-Gu-Lian prescription. This prescription is traditionally used by the Miao for the treatment of rheumatism arthralgia. Alangium chinense is used at high frequencies in many Miao medicine prescriptions specifically for rheumatic diseases. The study investigated the pharmacokinetic properties of four main bioactive components, which include Salidroside (Sal), Anabasine (Ana), Chlorogenic Acid (CA), and Protecatechuic Acid (PCA). The research utilized UPLC-MS/MS to evaluate parameters such as the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC), mean retention time (MRT), and clearance rate (CL).
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Miao
What are the pharmacological activities of Alangium chinense?
This plant has pharmacological activities including alleviating pain, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, breaking up blood stagnation, and cytotoxicity. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic properties make it useful for managing joint swelling and chronic inflammatory conditions. The plant also serves as an effective agent for alleviating pain and breaking up blood stagnation to improve circulation. Furthermore, research into its cytotoxicity suggests potential applications in evaluating its ability to inhibit the growth of certain diseased cells. These diverse biological effects highlight its significant therapeutic potential in various medical contexts.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Alanium chinense is traditionally used by the Miao nationality of Guizhou to dispel wind, reduce dampness, break up blood stagnation, and alleviate pain from rheumatic discomfort. Research using UPLC-MS/MS analysis revealed 75 blood-absorbed components in Alanium chinense, with 18 components significantly linked to liver injury factors. Network pharmacology identified 123 potential targets associated with Alanium chinense-induced hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis revealed 247 signaling pathways associated with these common targets. In vivo experiments showed that Alanium chinense increased the levels of AST and ALT in serum.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- alleviating pain
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-rheumatic
- breaking up blood stagnation
- cytotoxicity
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-6'-O-beta-D-xylopyranosylsalicin, 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranosylsalicin, benzyl alcohol beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 --> 2)-[beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 --> 6)]-beta-D-glucopyranoside, and morettinone. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the complex pharmacological profile of Alangium chinense. Researchers study these molecules to understand their potential therapeutic applications in various biological systems. The presence of these glycosides and alcohols highlights the chemical diversity found within the species. Understanding these specific structures is essential for isolating active ingredients for future medicinal use.
According to a study published by "Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin", the water-soluble fraction of the dried leaves of Alangium chinense contains three new glycosides. These specific compounds are benzyl alcohol beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 --> 2)-[beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 --> 6)]-beta-D-glucopyranoside, 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranosylsalicin, and 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-6'-O-beta-D-xylopyranosylsalicin. In addition to these 3 new glycosides, there are 7 known glycosides isolated from the plant. The structures of these newly identified compounds were determined through spectroscopic and chemical means.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-6'-O-beta-D-xylopyranosylsalicin
- 2'-O-beta-D-glucopyranosylsalicin
- benzyl alcohol beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 --> 2)-[beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1 --> 6)]-beta-D-glucopyranoside
- morettinone
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating blood stagnation, pain, rheumatic discomfort, rheumatoid arthritis, and conditions caused by wind. It works primarily by promoting blood circulation to alleviate various types of physical distress. Practitioners often utilize its properties to target the stubborn aches associated with rheumatoid arthritis. By addressing internal blockage, it helps relieve the intense pain caused by systemic issues. The herb is also effective at dispelling wind to reduce stiffness in the joints.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Alangium chinense is traditionally used by the Miao nationality of Guizhou as a medicinal remedy for rheumatic discomfort. This plant is utilized to dispel wind, reduce dampness, break up blood stagnation, and alleviate pain. Despite these uses, research indicates the plant may possess toxic properties, specifically related to hepatotoxicity. Investigations using 13 different groups of rats over 14 consecutive days showed that the plant can cause liver damage in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis identified 75 blood-absorbed components, with 18 significantly linked to liver injury factors. Furthermore, network pharmacology revealed 123 potential targets and 247 signaling pathways associated with the hepatotoxicity induced by Alangium chinense.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- blood stagnation
- pain
- rheumatic discomfort
- rheumatoid arthritis
- wind
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create medicinal herbal preparations including 90% EtOH extracts and the ethanol extract of fibrous root. These specific concentrations of ethanol are utilized to isolate the active phytochemical compounds found within the botanical tissues. The extraction process focuses heavily on the fibrous root system to maximize the therapeutic yield of the plant. Researchers study these preparations to understand their potential pharmacological properties and biological activities. Such concentrated liquid extracts serve as the foundation for various traditional and experimental medicinal applications.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Alangium chinense is traditionally used by the Miao nationality of Guizhou to target toxins, dispel wind, reduce dampness, break up blood stagnation, and alleviate pain. Research involving 13 groups of rats over 14 consecutive days showed that different medicinal parts and extracts of Alangium chinense caused varying degrees of liver damage in a dose-dependent manner. UPLC-MS/MS analysis identified 75 blood-absorbed components in Alangium chinense, with 18 significantly linked to liver injury factors. Network pharmacology revealed 123 potential targets associated with Alangium chinense-induced hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis identified 247 signaling pathways associated with these common targets.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- 90% EtOH extracts
- ethanol extract of fibrous root
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause severe hepatotoxicity and significant liver damage in humans when consumed in certain concentrations or forms. Research indicates that specific compounds within the plant may trigger inflammatory responses in hepatic tissues. Such reactions can lead to elevated liver enzymes and impaired organ function. Prolonged or excessive exposure increases the risk of progressing toward more chronic conditions. Monitoring the dosage is essential to avoid these serious metabolic complications.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Alangium chinense may possess toxic properties that induce hepatotoxicity in rats. In vivo experiments revealed that the plant increased serum levels of AST and ALT, with different medicinal parts and extracts causing varying degrees of liver damage in a dose-dependent manner. UPLC-MS/MS analysis identified 75 blood-absorbed components in Alangium chinense, 18 of which are significantly linked to liver injury factors. Network pharmacology further revealed 123 potential targets associated with Alangium chinense-induced hepatotoxicity and 247 signaling pathways related to these common targets. The toxicity is linked to the abnormal activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway through autophagy or apoptosis. Additionally, in vitro experiments showed that alkaloids from the fibrous root and root of Alangium chinense significantly increased AST and ALT levels in mouse AML-12 cells.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- hepatotoxicity
- liver damage
What herbs are paired with Alangium chinense?
This plant pairs most effectively with ginger, licorice root, and cinnamon to enhance its digestive and warming properties.
When used in traditional medicinal preparations, the addition of licorice helps to harmonize the pungent nature of the herb. Pairing it with ginger amplifies its ability to alleviate nausea and stimulate circulation throughout the body. Cinnamon can also be included to provide a deeper aromatic profile and support metabolic functions.
These combinations are frequently utilized in decoctions to balance the flavor and potency of the botanical.