Alchornea trewioides
Alchornea trewioides · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Alchornea trewioides is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse phytochemical profile. Research has specifically focused on the 95% EtOH extract derived from the plant's root. This preparation is rich in bioactive compounds, including gallic acid and ethyl gallate. Furthermore, the extract contains specialized molecules such as 1-O-galloyl-6-O-vanilloyl-beta-glucose and Erigeside C. Understanding these chemical constituents provides vital insights into the therapeutic potential of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Stipellaria Trewioides · Alchornea Trewioides Var. Sinica
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Synonyms
Alchornea trewioides is a botanical species that is recognized under several different taxonomic names within scientific literature. One such classification includes the synonym Alchornea trewioides var. sinica, which highlights a specific variety of the plant. Additionally, the species is frequently referred to by its alternative name, Stipellaria trewioides. These overlapping designations often appear in various studies due to historical shifts in botanical nomenclature. Understanding these synonyms is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify and categorize this plant in different contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Alchornea trewioides is a distinct biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Malpighiales, which provides a framework for its evolutionary placement. The plant is further defined by its membership in the family Euphorbiaceae. Finally, it is uniquely identified by its specific genus, Alchornea.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Alchornea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Alchornea trewioides is a versatile plant species found across diverse geographical regions throughout Asia. Its distribution spans the temperate climates of China, including the South-Central and Southeast provinces. The species also thrives in the tropical environments of Hainan island. Furthermore, its range extends into the Indo-China region, specifically within the borders of Vietnam. This wide variety of habitats highlights the adaptable nature of the plant across different ecological zones.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Alchornea trewioides is a versatile plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. As a self-supporting species, it maintains its structural integrity without the need for external assistance. The plant typically reaches a minimum height of 1 meter, though it frequently grows to at least 1.5 meters. For those observing its full development, it can achieve a maximum height of 2 meters. This compact stature makes it a notable feature in its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Alchornea trewioides serves as a significant source of various phenolic acid derivatives, according to recent phytochemical analysis. Detailed studies of the plant's root extract have identified several key chemical constituents, including gallic acid and ethyl gallate. Furthermore, the research highlights the presence of erigeside C within the species. The analysis also confirmed the existence of 1-O-galloyl-6-O-vanilloyl-beta-glucose, which was identified as a new compound. Additionally, the plant was found to contain glucosyringic acid, contributing to its complex chemical profile.
Conditions
Preparations
Alchornea trewioides is prepared as a 95% EtOH extract of the root to facilitate the study of its chemical constituents. This specific extraction method allows researchers to isolate various phenolic acid derivatives through advanced chromatographic techniques. By using the 95% EtOH extract, scientists were able to separate and identify eight distinct phenolic acids. The process involved employing silica gel column chromatography and Sephadex LH-20 to refine the root extract. Ultimately, this preparation method led to the discovery of several compounds being isolated from the plant for the first time.
Parts used
Alchornea trewioides serves as a significant subject for phytochemical investigation, particularly regarding its diverse chemical constituents. Recent research has focused on analyzing a 95% ethanol extract derived specifically from the root of this plant. Through advanced chromatographic techniques and spectroscopic studies, scientists successfully isolated several important phenolic acid derivatives. This analysis led to the identification of eight distinct compounds, including several that are being documented within the genus for the first time. Such findings highlight the complex chemical profile contained within the root structure of Alchornea trewioides.