Anamirta cocculus
Anamirta cocculus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Anamirta cocculus is a plant known for its diverse biological activities, ranging from its use as an acaricide to its role as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. The chemical profile of this species is primarily defined by the presence of potent compounds such as picrotin and picrotoxinin. In medicinal contexts, it has been traditionally associated with the management of conditions like dizziness and vertigo. Various preparations are utilized to harness its properties, including aqueous extracts, drops, tablets, and concentrated extracts. These multifaceted applications make it a significant subject in both chemical and pharmacological studies.
- Synonyms
- Menispermum Monadelphum · Menispermum Heteroclitum · 14 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Menispermaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Anamirta cocculus is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of regional names across different cultures. In several parts of the world, it is frequently referred to as the Levantnut or the Coque du Levant. It also carries the distinct name anamirta metlinatá in certain botanical contexts. Moving through different linguistic landscapes, one might encounter it called Kokkelskörner or balık otu. These diverse common names highlight the global reach and varied recognition of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Anamirta cocculus is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various scientific synonyms. Throughout botanical literature, it is often referred to as Anamirta baueriana or Anamirta jucunda. Researchers may also encounter this plant documented under the names Anamirta paniculata and Anamirta populifolia. Furthermore, the classification of this species includes the designation Anamirta racemosa in certain contexts. Understanding these diverse nomenclature relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Anamirta cocculus belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Ranunculales. The plant is further distinguished by its membership in the specific genus Anamirta. Finally, it finds its botanical home within the Menispermaceae family. These taxonomic relationships provide a clear scientific framework for understanding the plant's biological identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Menispermaceae |
| Genus | Anamirta |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Anamirta cocculus is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Within the Indian Subcontinent, it can be found growing across India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The species also maintains a presence in the specific region of Assam. Furthermore, its range extends into the Indo-China area, including the Andaman Islands. This widespread geographic footprint highlights the plant's adaptability to diverse tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Anamirta cocculus is a herbaceous plant characterized by its distinctive growth form. It possesses an obligatory climbing habit, which allows it to scale surrounding structures to reach sunlight. Under optimal conditions, this climber can achieve a maximum height of 10 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Anamirta cocculus serves as a vital component in the multicomponent medicinal product known as Vertigoheel. Through the application of advanced UHPLC-ToF-MS profiling, researchers have been able to identify specific chemical markers within the plant. The analysis specifically confirmed that Anamirta cocculus contains picrotin, which acts as a representative metabolite for this ingredient. Additionally, the study established that Anamirta cocculus contains picrotoxinin, another key neuroactive molecule found in the extract. These findings ensure that the final formulations retain the characteristic constituents necessary for their intended therapeutic use.
Conditions
Anamirta cocculus demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its various therapeutic properties. The plant extract has been shown to inhibit the induction of Heinz bodies in in vitro models. Additionally, it contributes to total antioxidant activity, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. In the formulation of Vertigoheel, Anamirta cocculus serves as a key ingredient used to treat vertigo. Consequently, the plant is also utilized for its ability to treat dizziness.
Preparations
Anamirta cocculus is prepared as aqueous extracts to investigate its antioxidant and potential anti-carcinogenic activities. This plant is also processed as extracts to profile the specific molecular metabolites found within medicinal products like Vertigoheel. Within these multi-component formulations, Anamirta cocculus is prepared as drops to treat conditions such as vertigo and dizziness. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as tablets, ensuring that characteristic neuroactive constituents are retained in the final dose. These various preparation methods allow for the precise quantification of its active markers, such as picrotoxinin and picrotin.