Anredera cordifolia
Anredera cordifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Anredera cordifolia is a climbing plant that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological properties. Recent studies have focused on its potent antihypercholesterolemic activities, which show promise in managing metabolic health. Research indicates that the plant contains key bioactive chemicals, including Calenduloside E, Larreagenin A, and Ursolic acid. These compounds are primarily investigated through various preparations, such as concentrated extracts and specifically targeted leaf extracts. Consequently, this species serves as a vital subject of study for addressing the clinical challenges associated with hypercholesterolemia.
- Synonyms
- Anredera Americana · Anredera Cordifolia Subsp. Gracilis · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Basellaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Anredera cordifolia is a versatile plant known by several distinct names depending on the region and language. It is frequently referred to by its common name, Binahong, which is widely recognized in various herbal traditions. In French-speaking contexts, it may be called Anrédère à feuilles en cœur or Boussingaultie à feuilles en cœur, both of which highlight its heart-shaped foliage. Other linguistic variations include Anredera a foglie cordate and the simpler moniker Brotal. Understanding these various names is essential for anyone researching this unique climbing vine.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Anredera cordifolia is a versatile plant that is frequently identified by several different botanical names. Within scientific literature, it is commonly recognized by its synonym Anredera americana. The species also encompasses specific variations, such as the subspecies Anredera cordifolia subsp. gracilis. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this plant under the genus Boussingaultia, specifically as Boussingaultia cordata or Boussingaultia cordifolia. It is also occasionally referred to by the name Boussingaultia gracilis, reflecting the complex taxonomic relationships surrounding this climbing vine.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Anredera cordifolia is a distinctive botanical specimen classified within the kingdom Plantae. This climbing vine belongs to the genus Anredera and is a prominent member of the Basellaceae family. Taxonomically, it is organized under the order Caryophyllales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, its biological classification places it within the class Equisetopsida. Understanding these relationships provides essential insight into the plant's complex place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Basellaceae |
| Genus | Anredera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Anredera cordifolia exhibits a broad geographical reach that spans several diverse regions across the Atlantic and African continents. Its distribution includes the Macaronesian islands, specifically encompassing the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Madeira. The plant also extends into the Middle Atlantic Ocean, finding a foothold on the remote island of St. Helena. Within the African continent, it is notably present in Northeast Tropical Africa, with documented occurrences in Eritrea. This wide-ranging presence highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various island and mainland environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Anredera cordifolia is characterized by its distinct growth form as a vigorous herb. This species possesses an obligatory climbing habit, meaning it relies on external structures to ascend toward the light. Depending on its environment, the plant can reach a minimum height of 1.5 meters. In many settings, it maintains a more substantial stature, frequently reaching at least 9 meters. Ultimately, this climber can achieve a maximum height of 10 meters as it spreads across its surroundings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Anredera cordifolia has demonstrated significant potential as an antihypercholesterolemic agent through its ability to inhibit HMG-CoA reductase. Recent in-silico studies have identified key bioactive compounds within the plant, such as Ursolic acid, Calenduloside E, and Larreagenin A, which show strong binding affinities. These compounds exhibit drug-likeness characteristics, suggesting they can be effectively absorbed in the intestines without crossing the blood-brain barrier. Furthermore, toxicity predictions indicate that these active constituents generally fall into a non-toxic category. While these computational results are promising, further in vitro and in vivo research is necessary to fully validate their therapeutic efficacy.
Compounds
Anredera cordifolia is a plant characterized by a diverse profile of bioactive chemical constituents. Scientific research has identified that it contains 3-Hydroxy-alpha-ionone, a compound that may contribute to its notable allelopathic properties. Additionally, the plant contains Calenduloside E, which is one of several substances identified through molecular docking studies. Further analysis reveals the presence of Larreagenin A and Ursolic acid within its chemical makeup. Together, these specific compounds highlight the complex medicinal and biological potential of this species.
Conditions
Anredera cordifolia demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its ability to treat hypercholesterolemia by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase activity. Its bioactive compounds also show promise in treating the Mpro of the SARS-CoV-2 virus via molecular docking interactions. Furthermore, the plant has been studied for its capacity to treat anti-herpes simplex viruses, including both HSV-1 and HSV-2. In addition to these therapeutic uses, certain compounds within the plant act as antihypercholesterolemic agents. Conversely, in ecological contexts, Anredera cordifolia acts as a noxious weed that can collapse canopies of tall trees.
Preparations
Anredera cordifolia is prepared as extracts to investigate its medicinal and antimicrobial properties. Specifically, the plant is prepared as a leaf extract to evaluate its potential allelopathic effects on other vegetation. Researchers utilized these extracts to screen for antibacterial activity against sexually transmitted diseases. Furthermore, the leaf extract served as the primary source for isolating and identifying active allelopathic substances. Through these preparation methods, the biological impact of the plant on both pathogens and competing species can be accurately measured.