Angelica keiskei
Angelica keiskei · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Angelica keiskei is a botanical species utilized for its diverse pharmacological potential, particularly through its stem and root components. Various preparations, including AKWE and ethyl acetate-soluble fractions of stem exudates, have been studied for their bioactive properties. These preparations contain key chemical constituents such as flavonoids, xanthoangelol, 4-hydroxyderricin, and xanthokeistal A. Research indicates that these compounds exhibit significant antioxidant and vasorelaxant activities. Consequently, the plant shows promise in addressing complex physiological conditions such as aging, glutathione depletion, metastasis, and muscle atrophy.
- Synonyms
- Angelica Utilis · Angelica Keiskei F. Foliosa · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem · Root
Classification
Common Names
Angelica keiskei is a remarkable plant that is known by several different names across various cultures. In Japan, it is widely recognized by its common names アシタバ and 明日葉, which reflect its local heritage. The species is also frequently referred to as ashitaba in many English-speaking botanical contexts. Moving into Slavic regions, it is commonly identified as Дудник съедобный. These diverse names highlight the widespread recognition and cultural importance of this unique plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Angelica keiskei is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different taxonomic names. Within scientific literature, it is often referred to by the synonym Angelica utilis. The plant is also documented under the name Archangelica keiskei in various historical records. Furthermore, specific variations of the species are classified as Angelica keiskei f. foliosa. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate identification and classification in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Angelica keiskei is a remarkable member of the kingdom Plantae. This botanical species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Apiales. Within this taxonomic hierarchy, it is a distinguished representative of the genus Angelica. Furthermore, the plant is a key member of the family Apiaceae. Through these biological relationships, we can better understand its unique place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Angelica |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Angelica keiskei is a botanical species primarily found across the Asia-temperate regions. Its geographic reach is particularly concentrated within the diverse landscapes of Eastern Asia. Within this broad territory, Japan serves as a key area for its natural occurrence and growth. Understanding these specific distribution patterns helps researchers map the plant's environmental preferences. This localized presence highlights the unique ecological niche that the species occupies within its native habitat.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Angelica keiskei is characterized by its distinct growth form as an herb.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Angelica keiskei is a versatile medicinal plant that demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its diverse biological activities. Research indicates that this species possesses potent antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress by regulating multiple redox signaling pathways. Furthermore, the plant is recognized for its vasorelaxant effects, making it a valuable subject for studies involving vascular function. When used in combination with other medicinal plants, it has been shown to enhance vasodilation through mechanisms involving endothelial nitric oxide synthase. These combined antioxidant and vascular benefits suggest that Angelica keiskei could serve as an effective dietary supplement for addressing age-related decline and various vascular disorders.
Compounds
Angelica keiskei is a highly regarded medicinal herb recognized for its diverse array of bioactive chemical constituents. The plant contains a variety of essential compounds, including coumarins and diterpenes, which contribute to its broad therapeutic potential. Within its complex profile, various flavonoids play a crucial role in its pharmacological activities. Specifically, the plant contains the active chalcones 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol. These combined elements support the plant's traditional use as a health food and its modern application in addressing various physiological conditions.
Conditions
Angelica keiskei offers diverse therapeutic potential, including the ability to mitigate age-associated physiological decline by improving antioxidant levels and muscle function in mice. The plant's stem extracts demonstrate nephroprotective activity against the NAPQI-induced HEK293 cell line, offering a possible defense against kidney damage. Its bioactive compound xanthoangelol E has shown significant antiviral properties by inhibiting the SARS-CoV PLpro protein. Furthermore, derivatives from the plant are effective in targeting SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro activity to combat coronavirus replication. Finally, Angelica keiskei possesses potent antimicrobial properties, specifically showing activity against Staphylococcus aureus through various identified constituents like xanthoangelol.
Preparations
Angelica keiskei is prepared as AKWE, a water extract used to mitigate age-associated physiological decline in mice. The plant is also processed into a methanol extract from its stems to isolate various bioactive compounds. This methanol extract can be further refined into an ethyl acetate-soluble fraction containing potent superoxide-scavenging chalcones. Additionally, the plant produces exudates from its stems which serve as a source for chemical analysis. These stem exudates are specifically prepared as an ethyl acetate-soluble fraction to isolate compounds with cancer chemopreventive effects.
Parts used
Angelica keiskei is a medicinal plant that contains various bioactive compounds within its different anatomical structures. Research indicates that the stems of this species serve as a significant source of chalcones, including xanthoangelol and xanthokeismins A-C. These stem-derived compounds have demonstrated notable superoxide-scavenging activities and potential cancer chemopreventive effects. Additionally, the roots of Angelica keiskei contain specific chalcone derivatives that play a role in medicinal applications. Specifically, these root extracts have been found to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis by targeting tumor-induced neovascularization.