Anisomeles malabarica
Anisomeles malabarica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Anisomeles malabarica is a significant medicinal plant recognized for its diverse range of biological activities, including ACE-inhibitory, anthelmintic, and anti-HIV properties. Research has particularly focused on the plant's leaves, which serve as a primary source for therapeutic compounds. Studies utilizing acetone and methanol leaf extracts have demonstrated the plant's potential in addressing various health concerns. Notably, these preparations have shown efficacy in managing conditions related to Plasmodium falciparum. While promising, it is also noted that the plant may possess allergenic characteristics that require careful consideration.
- Synonyms
- Craniotome Mauritianum · Nepeta Malabarica · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Anisomeles malabarica is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of local and regional names. In certain areas, it is frequently referred to as Codhara or Gojibha. It is also commonly recognized by the names Gopoli and Mahadronah. Furthermore, the species is widely known in English as Malabar Catmint. This diversity in nomenclature highlights the plant's deep-rooted presence across different cultural landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Anisomeles malabarica is a botanical subject frequently identified by several different taxonomic names in scientific literature. For instance, the species is recognized by the synonym Craniotome mauritianum in certain academic contexts. It has also been referred to as Epimeredi malabaricus throughout various historical records. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this plant listed as Nepeta malabarica depending on the classification system used. Finally, the name Stachys mauritiana serves as another significant synonym within its complex botanical history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Anisomeles malabarica is a fascinating botanical specimen belonging to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Lamiales, which helps define its structural characteristics. As a member of the Lamiaceae family, it shares common traits with other well-known aromatic herbs. Ultimately, this plant is identified by its specific placement within the genus Anisomeles.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Anisomeles |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Anisomeles malabarica is a plant species characterized by a broad geographical presence across several distinct regions. Its distribution extends through Africa and the Western Indian Ocean, including specific locations such as Mauritius and Réunion. In the tropical regions of Asia, the plant is widely established throughout the Indian Subcontinent. This includes significant populations found within the borders of India and Bangladesh. Furthermore, its range reaches across the ocean to include the island nation of Sri Lanka.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Anisomeles malabarica is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinct growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 2 meters as it matures. While it can theoretically start from a baseline of 0 meters, most specimens maintain a more substantial stature. In practical observations, the plant usually achieves a minimum height of at least 1 meter. This combination of traits defines its physical presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Anisomeles malabarica demonstrates significant therapeutic potential against two different protozoan parasites. In studies evaluating antiplasmodial activity, the ethyl acetate extract of its leaves showed promising results in treating Plasmodium falciparum. Furthermore, the plant exhibits antileishmanial properties when tested against the promastigote form of Leishmania donovani. Specifically, the methanol leaf extracts of this species were found to possess good activity against these Leishmania promastigotes. These combined findings highlight its effectiveness as a source for developing new treatments for both malaria and leishmaniasis.
Preparations
Anisomeles malabarica is prepared as acetone and methanol leaf extracts to evaluate its potential antileishmanial activity. These specific solvent-based preparations were tested against the promastigote form of Leishmania donovani. Among the various botanical samples studied, the methanol leaf extract of this plant demonstrated significant inhibitory effects. Specifically, the extract achieved an IC50 value of 126±19.70 μg/mL during the in vitro evaluation. This successful preparation identifies the plant as a promising candidate for the isolation of new antiprotozoal compounds.
Parts used
Anisomeles malabarica contains specific medicinal properties that are primarily concentrated within its leaf. Scientific evaluations have demonstrated that methanol extracts from the leaves of this plant exhibit significant antileishmanial activity against Leishmania donovani. Furthermore, ethyl acetate extracts derived from the leaves have shown promising antiplasmodial potential against Plasmodium falciparum. These findings highlight the importance of the plant's foliage in the search for new antiprotozoal compounds. Consequently, the leaf of Anisomeles malabarica serves as a vital candidate for drug development and the isolation of new pharmacophores.