Alternanthera brasiliana
Alternanthera brasiliana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Alternanthera brasiliana is a versatile plant species recognized for its diverse range of biological activities, including analgesic, antinociceptive, and antispasmodic properties. Scientific investigations have identified key bioactive compounds within the plant, specifically flavonoids, steroids, and terpenes. Researchers primarily utilize hydroethanolic extracts and callus culture extracts to study these therapeutic potential. These preparations allow for a deeper understanding of how the plant's chemical profile interacts with biological systems. Consequently, this species remains a significant subject of interest in pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Achyranthes Brasiliana · Gomphrena Brasiliana · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Alternanthera brasiliana is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional and cultural names. It is frequently referred to by the common names Bayam ungu and Bouton blac depending on the local dialect. In many English-speaking areas, it is most widely known as the Brazilian joyweed. This species also carries the descriptive moniker Cucaracha extranjera in certain contexts. Furthermore, it is identified in Lithuanian traditions as Brazilinė alstė, showcasing its global linguistic presence.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Alternanthera brasiliana is a plant species that has been documented under several different botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature identifies it through various synonyms, including the name Achyranthes brasiliana. It is also frequently referred to in different contexts as Gomphrena brasiliana. Furthermore, researchers have previously classified the specimen as Philoxerus brasiliana. Finally, the taxonomic record includes the synonym Telanthera brasiliana to describe this specific plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Alternanthera brasiliana is a distinctive species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this diverse group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Caryophyllales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It falls under the specific genus Alternanthera, which defines its structural characteristics. Finally, its botanical identity is solidified by its placement within the family Amaranthaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Alternanthera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Alternanthera brasiliana exhibits a diverse distribution pattern across several key regions of the African continent. Its presence is firmly established within West Tropical Africa, with documented occurrences in Benin, Gambia, and Guinea. The species also extends into West-Central Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Cameroon. Beyond the mainland, its reach includes the Western Indian Ocean, where it can be found in the Comoros. This wide geographic range highlights the plant's adaptability to various tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Alternanthera brasiliana is a distinctive herb characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This plant typically maintains a substantial presence in a landscape, reaching a minimum height of 1 meter. For many gardeners, the most common stature for this species falls within a range of 1.5 meters. However, under ideal growing conditions, it can continue to expand until it reaches a maximum height of 4 meters. Such structural versatility makes it a dynamic addition to various botanical collections.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Alternanthera brasiliana is a Brazilian medicinal plant that has gained scientific interest due to its various therapeutic properties. Research into its callus culture extracts has demonstrated significant antinociceptive effects through classical pain models such as the writhing and formalin tests. These findings suggest that the plant possesses notable analgesic capabilities, which are likely linked to the presence of steroids or terpenes. Additionally, the species is recognized for its antispasmodic potential in treating various ailments. Together, these pharmacological activities highlight the medicinal importance of this plant in traditional and modern healing practices.
Compounds
Alternanthera brasiliana is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse phytochemical profile. Scientific analyses have identified that the species contains flavonoids, which constitute a significant portion of its chemical makeup. Additionally, the plant is known to contain steroids and phytosterols that contribute to its biological properties. Research also indicates the presence of terpenes, a finding that may be linked to its observed pharmacological actions. Together, these various compounds support the plant's traditional use in various ethnomedicinal applications.
Conditions
Alternanthera brasiliana has been demonstrated to treat acetic acid-induced writing through its antinociceptive properties. The plant also effectively treats formalin-induced licking in animal models. Furthermore, its extracts have been shown to treat intestinal transit. These specific pharmacological actions support its broader use to treat several ailments. The medicinal efficacy of the plant appears to be linked to the presence of steroids and terpenes.
Preparations
Alternanthera brasiliana is prepared as callus culture extracts to evaluate their phytochemical and pharmacological properties. These callus culture extracts have been specifically studied for their antinociceptive effects in various mouse models. Additionally, research involves the preparation of hydroethanolic extracts from related species within the Alternanthera genus. While the abstracts distinguish between species, they highlight the use of hydroethanolic extracts for investigating analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. Consequently, these different preparation methods serve as essential tools for analyzing the medicinal potential of the plant.