Ampelocissus tomentosa
Ampelocissus tomentosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ampelocissus tomentosa is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological properties. Recent studies have focused on evaluating its therapeutic potential through the use of ethanolic and methanolic extracts. These preparations have demonstrated notable anthelmintic, antibacterial, and antiviral activities in various biological assays. Specifically, the plant shows promise in combating pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, its medicinal efficacy extends to addressing viral challenges, including the Chikungunya virus.
- Synonyms
- Vitis Trifida · Vitis Triloba · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Vitaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Ampelocissus tomentosa is a botanical subject frequently identified by a variety of scientific synonyms in historical and modern literature. Due to shifting taxonomic classifications, this species has been referred to as Ampelopsis ternata and Vitis ternata in different contexts. Researchers may also encounter it listed under the name Vitis tomentosa depending on the specific botanical database being utilized. Furthermore, the plant is linked to the synonyms Vitis trifida and Vitis triloba within various academic records. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurately identifying the plant across diverse scientific studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ampelocissus tomentosa is a fascinating organism that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Vitales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the family Vitaceae, it shares structural similarities with other grape-like plants. Finally, its precise taxonomic identity is established within the genus Ampelocissus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Vitales |
| Family | Vitaceae |
| Genus | Ampelocissus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ampelocissus tomentosa is a plant species characterized by a wide distribution across several tropical regions of Asia. It can be found growing throughout the Indian Subcontinent, with significant populations located in both India and Bangladesh. The species also extends its reach into the Indo-China region, making it a notable part of the local flora. Specifically, its presence is well-documented within the borders of Myanmar. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's adaptability to various tropical environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Ampelocissus tomentosa has emerged as a highly versatile medicinal plant during recent screenings of Nepalese flora. Research indicates that this species possesses significant antibacterial properties, specifically inhibiting pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates notable antiviral activity, showing effectiveness against the chikungunya virus. Its therapeutic potential extends to parasitic control, as it exhibits anthelmintic activity by reducing the motility of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. These diverse biological activities suggest that the plant could serve as a valuable natural resource for future drug development.
Compounds
Conditions
Ampelocissus tomentosa demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its diverse biological activities. The plant effectively inhibits the growth of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, it shows antiviral properties by acting against the chikungunya virus. Its anthelmintic capabilities are also evident, as it significantly reduces the motility of the nematode C. elegans. These combined effects highlight the plant's multifaceted ability to treat various pathogens.
Preparations
Ampelocissus tomentosa is prepared as both ethanolic and methanolic extracts for scientific evaluation. These specific preparations were tested against a diverse panel of microbes, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The ethanolic and methanolic extracts of the plant demonstrated inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, the extracts showed significant activity against the chikungunya virus. They also played a role in reducing the motility of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.