Atractylodes lancea
What's the taxonomical classification of Atractylodes lancea?
Atractylodes lancea belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. Following its taxonomic hierarchy, it is placed in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Asterales, it is a member of the family Asteraceae. Finally, the plant is categorized under the genus Atractylodes, specifically identified as the species lancea.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Atractylodes |
| Species | lancea |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Atractylodes lancea has lanceolate leaves that are typically 5 to 15 centimeters long, featuring serrated margins and a distinctively elongated shape. The leaf surfaces often exhibit a rough texture due to the presence of fine hairs or small scales. These leaves are arranged alternately along a sturdy, erect stem that can reach significant heights. The plant also produces small, composite flower heads that are clustered in terminal umbels. Below the surface, it develops a thick, fleshy rhizome which serves as a primary storage organ.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the mountainous regions of southern and central China, specifically within provinces such as Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Guangxi. It typically flourishes in high-altitude environments found within temperate or subtropical forest ecosystems. These populations are often located on shaded slopes or near rocky outcrops where the soil remains moist. The specific elevation requirements and terrain preferences limit its presence to these particular ecological niches. Because its range is localized to these specific Asian highlands, it is not found naturally in other parts of the world.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant, Atractylodes lancea, is cultivated in well-drained, fertile soils within temperate climates where it receives moderate sunlight and consistent moisture.
Growers typically plant the rhizomes in the spring to ensure they establish strong root systems before the colder months arrive. The species thrives in mountainous or hilly regions that provide adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Regular weeding and careful monitoring of soil pH are essential for maximizing the concentration of bioactive compounds in the roots.
Once the plant reaches maturity, the underground rhizomes are harvested for their medicinal properties.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Atractylodes lancea is utilized medicinally through its rhizoma, essential oil, fruit, leaf, and pollen. The rhizoma serves as the primary therapeutic component in traditional formulations to improve digestion and regulate fluids. Essential oil extracted from the plant provides potent aromatic properties often used for respiratory and digestive relief. Both the leaf and the fruit contain bioactive compounds that contribute to its overall pharmacological profile. Additionally, the pollen is sometimes investigated for its specific nutritional and medicinal contributions.
According to a study published by "Zhong yao cai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese medicinal materials", the Rhizoma Atractylodes Lanceae is used as a medicinal extract. This extract induces the expression of CYP3A1 at the mRNA level. Additionally, the Rhizoma Atractylodes Lanceae extract induces the expression of CYP3A2. The extract can regulate CYP3A on the levels of enzyme activity and mRNA expression.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- Rhizoma
- essenstial oil
- fruit
- leaf
- pollen
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Atractylodes lancea is utilized in Kampo and Thai folklore medicine to treat various digestive and inflammatory ailments. In the Kampo tradition of Japan, the dried rhizome is frequently incorporated into herbal formulas to regulate water metabolism and strengthen the spleen. Thai folklore medicine practitioners also employ the plant to address abdominal discomfort and promote overall gastrointestinal health. Historically, these different healing systems have relied on the plant's aromatic properties to stimulate digestion. The specific preparation methods vary between these cultures, yet the focus remains on its restorative effects on the body's internal balance.
According to a study published by "The American journal of Chinese medicine", the effects of herbal components of Tokishakuyakusan were examined in vivo using rats treated with PMS and hCG. The research investigated how atractylodes lanceae rhizome affects the progesterone/20 alpha-OHP ratio in both serum and ovarian tissue. The data indicated that atractylodes lanceae rhizome alone or in combination with hoelen decreased this ratio in the serum and ovarian tissue. These findings suggested that atractylodes lanceae rhizome develops luteolysis. The study ultimately concluded that there is a blended effect of the herbal components of Tokishakuyakusan on the corpus luteum.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Kampo
- Thai folklore medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Atractylodes lancea?
This plant has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-diarrheal, anti-oxidant, and hepatoprotective pharmacological activities. Its potent anti-inflammatory properties help reduce systemic swelling and immune responses. The plant also exhibits anti-tumor capabilities that may assist in inhibiting the growth of various cancer cell lines. Furthermore, it provides effective anti-diarrheal effects to stabilize gastrointestinal function. Studies also highlight its ability to act as an anti-oxidant to neutralize free radicals and as a hepatoprotective agent to shield the liver from damage.
According to a study published by "BMC complementary and alternative medicine", the ethanolic extract of Atractylodes lancea showed promising anti-cholangiocarcinoma activity in a nude mouse xenograft model at oral dose levels of 1000, 3000, and 5000 mg/kg body weight. This plant also demonstrated promising anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antihypertensive, and anti-ulcer activities. Acute and subacute toxicity tests in mice and rats indicated safety profiles for the material across a broad range of dose levels. Aside from stomach irritation and general CNS depressant signs, no significant toxicity was observed.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-diarrheal
- anti-tumor
- anti-oxidant
- anti-ulcer
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds Atractylenolidides I, Atractylenolidides II, Atractylenolidides III, Atractylon, and Atractyloside-A. These bioactive molecules are primarily classified as sesquiterpene lactones and glycosides. Researchers often study these specific substances for their diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. The presence of these constituents makes the species a significant subject in traditional and modern herbal medicine studies. Each compound contributes uniquely to the complex chemical profile of the plant.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", lipophilic extracts of Atractylodes lancea rhizomes showed inhibitory activities with an IC50 (5-LOX) of 2.9 micrograms/mL and an IC50 (COX-1) of 30.5 micrograms/mL for the n-hexane extract. The isolated compound atractylochromene (1) acted as a potent inhibitor with an IC50 (5-LOX) of 0.6 microM and an IC50 (COX-1) of 3.3 microM. Another compound, 2-[(2E)-3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienyl]-6-methyl-2,5-cyclohexadiene-1,4-dione (2), demonstrated selective inhibitory activity against 5-LOX with an IC50 (5-LOX) of 0.2 microM and an IC50 (COX-1) of 64.3 microM. Additionally, the sesquiterpene atractylon (3) and the coumarin osthol (4) functioned as moderate but selective 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors. Finally, atractylenolides I (5), II (6), and III (7) produced no significant inhibitory effects for either enzyme.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Atractylenolidides I
- Atractylenolidides II
- Atractylenolidides III
- Atractylon
- Atractyloside-A
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating various digestive disorders including gastric ulcer, gastrointestinal symptoms, gastrointestinal syndromes, and stomach disorders. It acts as a traditional remedy to soothe the lining of the digestive tract and alleviate discomfort. The medicinal properties of the herb help regulate functions within the gut to manage complex gastrointestinal syndromes. Patients often utilize it to mitigate the pain and irritation associated with a gastric ulcer. By addressing these stomach disorders, the plant serves as a versatile tool for maintaining overall digestive health.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Atractylodes lancea is widely used in East Asia as a diuretic and stomachic drug. This plant is utilized for the treatment of rheumatic diseases, digestive disorders, night blindness, and influenza. It contains a variety of sesquiterpenoids and other components of medicinal importance. The review of the literature was performed by consulting scientific databases including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Baidu Scholar, Springer, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and CNKI. Over 200 chemical compounds have been isolated from Atractylodis Rhizoma, which mainly includes Atractylodes lancea.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- digestive disorders
- gastric ulcer
- gastrogastrointestinal symptoms
- gastrogastrointestinal syndromes
- stomach disorders
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create various medicinal preparations including Atractylodes lancea rhizome extract, the herbal formula Hochu-ekki-to, So-jutsu, an acidic polysaccharide fraction, and its essential oil. The rhizome is frequently processed as So-jutsu to enhance its therapeutic properties for digestive health. Scientists have isolated the acidic polysaccharide fraction to investigate its specific immunological benefits. Additionally, the essential oil provides concentrated aromatic compounds used in specialized applications. These diverse preparations demonstrate the plant's wide-ranging utility in traditional and modern medicine.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", the rhizomes of Atractylodes lancea DC are used clinically in China and Japan to treat gastrointestinal symptoms like functional dyspepsia and gastroparesis. The study examined an Atractylodes lancea extract at doses of 500 or 1000mg/kg and its effects on motility. This extract stimulated small intestinal motility in normal mice and inhibited reductions in gastric emptying and gastrointestinal motility induced by dopamine at 1mg/kg. Additionally, the 1000mg/kg extract dose inhibited the atropine-induced decrease in small intestinal motility. The extract at 500 or 1000mg/kg also inhibited reductions in gastric emptying and small intestinal motility caused by 5-HT at 4mg/kg or the 5-HT(3) receptor agonist 1-(3-chlorophenyl) biguanide at 0.5mg/kg.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Atractylodes lancea rhizome extract
- Hochu-ekki-to
- So-jutsu
- acidic polysaccharide fraction
- essential oil
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause serious health complications including gastrointestinal syndromes, leukopenia, pneumonitis, diarrhea, and stomach irritation. Individuals consuming this species may experience significant stomach irritation and diarrhea as part of acute gastrointestinal syndromes. Some reported cases also involve the development of leukopenia, which is a dangerous reduction in white blood cell counts. Furthermore, there is a risk of respiratory distress due to the occurrence of pneumonitis. These various side effects necessitate caution when considering the medicinal use of the plant.
According to a study published by "BMC plant biology", Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. is a medicinal species of Asteraceae with multi-pharmacological applications in rheumatic disorders and gastrointestinal syndromes. These applications are due to its bioactive terpenoid-enriched essential oils. Researchers systematically identified 176 AlbHLHs through multi-tissue transcriptomic profiling of the leaf, stem, rhizome, and rhizome buds. Within these, 36 AlbHLHs showed significant differential expression across tissues, and 19 of these were highly expressed in rhizomes and rhizome buds. This expression pattern is consistent with the accumulation trend of terpenoids.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- gastrointestinal syndromes
- leukopenia
- pneumonitis
- diarrhea
- stomach irritation
What herbs are paired with Atractylodes lancea?
This plant is most frequently paired with Astragalus propinquus, Panax ginseng, and Poria cocos to enhance its warming and dampness-resolving effects.
In traditional formulas, it is often combined with licorice root to harmonize the various medicinal properties and improve digestibility. When addressing digestive stagnation, practitioners may add ginger or tangerine peel to augment its ability to regulate stomach Qi. These specific combinations are designed to target complex patterns of spleen deficiency and fluid retention.
Utilizing these synergies allows the herb to more effectively transform dampness within the body.