Amaranthus spinosus
Amaranthus spinosus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Amaranthus spinosus is a versatile plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse range of therapeutic activities. Research indicates that various preparations, including ethanolic, hexane, crude, and hydrophilic extracts, can be utilized to harness its medicinal potential. Specifically, the leaves are rich in key chemicals such as betalains, CA, CR, and CU, which contribute to its robust pharmacological profile. These bioactive compounds demonstrate potent antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic properties, while also acting as a 5-HT-inhibitor. Furthermore, these extracts show promise in combating oxidative damage, infectious diseases, and conditions related to Blastocystis hominis.
- Synonyms
- Amaranthus Spinosus Var. Basiscissus · Amaranthus Spinosus Var. Circumscissus · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Amaranthus spinosus is a versatile plant recognized by a wide variety of regional names across different cultures. It is frequently referred to by its common name, Bayam Duri, in certain botanical circles. Many people also identify the species simply as Bledo or Bledo blanco. Depending on the specific geographic location, it may be known as Bledo espinoso in Cuba. Similarly, in the Dominican Republic, the plant is commonly called Bledo espinoso as well.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Amaranthus spinosus is a complex species characterized by a wide array of botanical synonyms in taxonomic literature. It is frequently identified in various studies under the names Amaranthus caracasanus and Amaranthus coracanus. Additionally, the plant is often referred to as Amaranthus diacanthus depending on the specific classification system used. The species also encompasses distinct varieties, including Amaranthus spinosus var. basiscissus and Amaranthus spinosus var. circumscissus. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification and consistent research within the genus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Amaranthus spinosus is a distinct member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the specific order Caryophyllales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. Further narrowing its identity, it is categorized under the family Amaranthaceae. Finally, this species is identified by its specific genus, Amaranthus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Amaranthus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Amaranthus spinosus is widely distributed across various regions within the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, this species can be found growing throughout Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its presence also extends westward to the Macaronesia islands, specifically inhabiting Cape Verde. Additionally, the plant is well-established in the territory of Madeira. This broad geographical range highlights the plant's adaptability to diverse African environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Amaranthus spinosus is a self-supporting herb that exhibits a versatile range of growth patterns. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 1.5 meters as it matures. Depending on its environmental conditions, the species can also be found as a much smaller specimen, sometimes measuring as little as 0.30 meters. Most common observations, however, show the plant maintaining a more robust minimum height of around 0.6 meters. Together, these characteristics define the physical structure and stature of this resilient herb.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Amaranthus spinosus is a versatile plant species that demonstrates a wide range of significant pharmacological activities. Research indicates that it possesses potent antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and improving metabolic defenses. Furthermore, the plant exhibits strong antidiabetic potential by effectively managing glucose levels and improving lipid metabolism in diabetic models. Its medicinal value is further enhanced by its antibacterial activity, specifically through fatty acids that inhibit various bacterial strains. Finally, studies have validated its traditional use in treating respiratory and gastrointestinal issues due to its effective bronchodilator and spasmolytic effects.
Compounds
Amaranthus spinosus is a medicinal plant recognized for its significant nutritional and therapeutic properties. Phytochemical screenings of its roots have revealed the presence of essential compounds, including glycosides, sugars, and terpenes. Beyond these organic constituents, the plant serves as a vital source of minerals. Research specifically highlights its high iron content, which supports its traditional use in treating anaemia. These combined characteristics underscore the biological importance of this species in both herbal medicine and nutrition.
Conditions
Amaranthus spinosus exhibits potent antibacterial properties by treating Bacillus lycheniformis 10341 through a novel fatty acid that alters bacterial membrane permeability. The plant also demonstrates antiparasitic potential by treating the intestinal protozoa Blastocystis hominis. In terms of hormonal health, Amaranthus spinosus serves as a management approach for treating ovarian hyperthecosis by regulating circular RNA and metabolic biomarkers. It further shows antimalarial efficacy by treating Plasmodium falciparum through the inhibition of parasite invasion into erythrocytes. Finally, the plant functions as a rich source of antioxidants that can effectively treat ROS by detoxifying oxidative stress.
Preparations
Amaranthus spinosus is prepared as hexane extracts to facilitate phytochemical characterization and evaluate antioxidant and antibacterial activities. This plant is also prepared as a crude extract for in-vivo and in-vitro studies regarding its laxative and bronchodilator properties. Research shows that Amaranthus spinosus is prepared as ethanolic extracts to assess its antimalarial effects against Plasmodium falciparum. Additionally, the species is prepared as methanolic extracts, which have been tested for both antimalarial activity and gastrointestinal modulatory effects. Finally, Amaranthus spinosus is prepared as hydrophilic extracts to determine its total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity.
Parts used
Amaranthus spinosus contains leaves that serve as a rich source of essential nutrients, minerals, and bioactive compounds. These leaves are packed with antioxidants, including phenolics, flavonoids, and various pigments like β-carotene and vitamin C. Beyond their nutritional value, extracts from the leaves have demonstrated measurable antimicrobial activity against several bacterial species. Furthermore, the ethanolic extract of the leaves shows significant potential in managing diabetes by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Collectively, these findings highlight the medicinal and dietary importance of the Amaranthus spinosus leaf in addressing nutritional deficiencies and metabolic disorders.