Atractylodes macrocephala
What's the taxonomical classification of Atractylodes macrocephala?
Atractylodes macrocephala belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. As a member of the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, this plant falls under the order Asterales. It is further categorized into the family Asteraceae, which places it among the sunflower and daisy relatives. Within this family, it is specifically identified by the genus Atractylodes and the species macrocephala.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Atractylodes |
| Species | macrocephala |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Atractylodes macrocephala has a perennial herbaceous habit characterized by a thick, fleshy, and branched rhizome that serves as a primary storage organ. The plant produces large, basal leaves that are typically ovate or lanceolate with serrated margins and a textured, rugose surface. Its flowering stems are erect and can reach significant heights, terminating in dense, terminal capitula composed of numerous small florets. These flower heads are surrounded by multiple layers of involucral bracts that exhibit a distinctive shape and arrangement. The resulting inflorescence presents a robust structure that is central to its taxonomic identification.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the mountainous regions of southwestern China, specifically within the provinces of Yunnan, Sichuan, Guizhou, and Tibet. It typically thrives in high-altitude environments ranging from temperate forests to alpine meadows. These habitats are characterized by moist, well-drained soils and cool climates. The species is often found growing along rocky slopes or in shaded areas under forest canopies. Its distribution remains relatively localized due to these specific ecological requirements.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, fertile loamy soil and a cool, temperate climate to ensure the healthy development of its medicinal rhizomes.
Cultivation typically begins with planting tubers in the spring or autumn, ensuring they are buried at an appropriate depth to avoid frost damage. It thrives in locations with moderate sunlight and consistent moisture, though it is highly susceptible to waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Growers often implement organic fertilization methods to enhance the concentration of active chemical compounds within the roots.
Successful harvesting usually occurs after several years of growth when the underground parts reach maximum potency.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Atractylodes macrocephala utilizes its rhizome, root, seed, leaf, and bud for various medicinal applications. The thick rhizome and root are the most common components used in traditional formulations to regulate digestion and expel dampness. Extracts from the seeds are often employed to treat specific gastrointestinal issues and promote metabolic health. While less frequently cited, the leaves and buds are sometimes integrated into specialized herbal preparations for their unique chemical properties. Together, these different anatomical parts provide a comprehensive range of therapeutic benefits.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", the medicinal plant Atractylodis Rhizoma is highly valued in China for its therapeutic properties. Research has identified 327 compounds within the plant, including sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, flavonoids, and phenolics. These components contribute to various pharmacological activities such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. The herb is particularly effective in treating influenza and modern gastrointestinal disorders. Future research aims to address challenges like low bioavailability through the use of multi-omics and molecular biology techniques.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- Rhizome
- Root
- Seed
- Leaf
- Bud
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Atractylodes macrocephala, is a fundamental medicinal herb utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese Kampo to regulate digestive functions and expel dampness from the body. In the Chinese tradition, the dried rhizome is frequently prescribed to strengthen the spleen and stomach while addressing issues like bloating or loose stools. Kampo practitioners similarly employ this botanical to harmonize the gastrointestinal system and manage water retention disorders. Historically, various parts of the root have been prepared as decoctions or powders to treat chronic abdominal pain and fatigue. These ancient systems rely on the herb's warming properties to restore internal balance and energetic flow.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala, known as Atractylodes macrocephala Rhizome (AMR), is one of the commonly used traditional Chinese medicines for alleviating constipation induced by spleen-deficiency. In research involving spleen-deficiency constipated rats, AMR was administered at a dose of 4.32 g crude drug/kg. This dosage significantly improved digestion-absorption function, colonic pathological morphology, and levels of neurotransmitters. The treatment effectively ameliorated disturbances in gut microbiota, including Firmicutes, Bacteroides, norank_f__Erysipelotrichaceae, and norank_f__Muribaculaceae. Furthermore, AMR prominently ameliorated the abnormal levels of 17 bile acids.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Kampo
What are the pharmacological activities of Atractylodes macrocephala?
This plant has diverse pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, gastroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Its anti-inflammatory actions help reduce swelling and pain by inhibiting specific chemical mediators in the body. Research also suggests that its anti-tumor effects can impede the growth and spread of various cancer cells. Furthermore, the plant exhibits anti-diabetic potential by regulating blood glucose levels and provides gastroprotective benefits by shielding the stomach lining from injury. Finally, its immunomodulatory capacity helps balance the body's immune response to maintain overall health.
According to a study published by "Carbohydrate polymers", a homogeneous polysaccharide (AMP) with a molecular weight (Mw) of 3.56 kDa was isolated from Atractylodes macrocephala. This AMP primarily consists of fructose (92.4 %) and glucose (7.6 %) linked through specific glycosidic bonds. In a DSS-induced mouse model, AMP demonstrated efficacy against ulcerative colitis by increasing body weight, lengthening colon length, and elevating goblet cell counts. The substance also reduced the disease activity index and histological damage while restoring intestinal barrier integrity. These ameliorative effects are mediated via the PI3K/Akt pathway and are entirely dependent on the homeostasis of the gut microbiota.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-tumor
- anti-diabetic
- gastroprotective
- immunomodulatory
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a diverse array of bioactive sesquiterpene lactones including Atractylenolide I, Atractylenolide III, Atractylon, Atramacroloid D, and the group of compounds known as Atramacroquin A-M. These specific chemical constituents are primarily responsible for the plant's significant pharmacological properties. Research suggests that these compounds contribute to various therapeutic effects such as anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. The presence of these lactones makes the species a valuable subject in the study of natural product chemistry. Understanding the structural variations among these molecules helps scientists better utilize the plant in medicinal applications.
According to a study published by "Zhong yao cai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese medicinal materials", Atractylodes macrocephala contains Atractylenolide I (8,9-dehydroasterolide, B), 4,15-epoxy-8 beta-hydroxyasterolide (C) and atractylenolide III (8 beta-hydroasterolide, D). At concentrations of 28.0 and 56.0 mumol/L, B, C and D inhibited the spontaneous movement of rat isolated ileum with a contractile force decrease where P < 0.001, while the rest force was not affected at P > 0.05. These compounds B, C and D at 28.0 or 56.0 mumol/L significantly antagonized CaCl2-induced contraction of rat isolated ileum when used to pretreat against Ver 0.28 mumol/L. Co bathing of B, C or D at 56.0 mumol/L with Atr 0.19 mumol/L weakened the ileum response to Ach, and at 56.0 mumol/L they restrained ileum spasm mediated by Neo 2.15 mumol/L. Additionally, B, C or D in a dose of 28.0 mg/kg significantly inhibited the gastrointestinal prochoresis of mice in the modified Phenol Red Paste Model.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Atractylenolide I
- Atractylenolide III
- Atractylon
- Atramacronins A-P
- Atractylodemaynes A-G
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating dyspepsia, gastritis, gastric disorders, stomach disorders, and splenic asthenia. Its medicinal properties are primarily utilized to regulate digestive functions and alleviate discomfort within the gastrointestinal tract. By addressing various stomach disorders, it helps restore balance to the body's metabolic processes. The plant also serves as a remedy for splenic asthenia, which involves weakness or dysfunction of the spleen. This traditional use aims to improve overall energy levels and digestive efficiency.
According to a study published by "Journal of separation science", Atractylodes macrocephala is used in traditional Chinese medicine for energy and stomach complaints. It is also utilized for the treatment of dyspepsia and anorexia, anti-inflammation, anticancer, and for increasing assimilation. Through a high-speed counter-current chromatography method, 32.1 mg of atractylenolidde III at 99.0% purity and 319.6 mg of atractylon at 97.8% purity can be obtained from a 1000 mg crude sample in a single run. The recoveries for these components are 95.4% for atractylenolidde III and 92.6% for atractylon.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- dyspepsia
- gastric disorders
- gastritis
- stomach disorders
- splenopathy
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Atractylodes macrocephala, a medicinal species used to create various preparations including Atractylodes rhizome oil, Atractylodis Rhizoma Alba, Baizhu dispensing granules, Yinchen-Wuling Powder, and Yupingfeng. These formulations utilize the dried rhizomes to strengthen the digestive system and resolve dampness within the body. Baizhu dispensing granules and Yupingfeng are commonly employed to bolster the protective qi and immune response. Additionally, preparations like Yinchen-Wuling Powder target specific patterns of damp-heat to restore internal balance. The extraction of Atractylodes rhizome oil provides a concentrated method for utilizing its therapeutic properties in clinical applications.
According to a study published by "Zhong yao cai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese medicinal materials", atractylodes rhizome oil was studied to evaluate its effects on the transdermal delivery of baicalin. The research utilized modified Valiac-Chien diffusion cells to determine the cumulative amount of baicalin penetrating through the skin in vitro. Different concentrations of atractylodes rhizome oil were used as enhancers alongside a saline isotonic solution as receptor fluid. The results showed that atractylodes rhizome oil was the best among the tested volatile oils for improving skin penetration. Ultimately, atractylodes rhizome oil serves as an effective enhancer for the percutaneous penetration of baicalin.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Atractylodes rhizome oil
- Atractylodis Rhizoma Alba
- Baizhu dispensing granules
- Yinchen-Wuling Powder
- Yupingfeng
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause serious health complications including blood hyperviscosity, decreased moisture content of the intestine, hypoglycemia, increased susceptibility to pathogen, and microcirculation disorders. Excessive consumption may lead to thick blood, which directly contributes to various microcirculation disorders throughout the body. The reduction in intestinal moisture content can result in digestive irregularities and dehydration of the gut lining. Furthermore, the plant may trigger hypoglycemia by significantly lowering blood glucose levels. These physiological shifts can ultimately weaken the immune system and lead to an increased susceptibility to pathogen exposure.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Atractylodes macrocephala Rhizoma alleviates blood hyperviscosity induced by a high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt diet. In a twelve-week intervention involving SD rats, the aqueous extract of Baizhu demonstrated evident attenuating effects on blood viscosity and microcirculation disorders. The plant moderately modulates parameters including grip, autonomous activities, vertigo time, TC, TG, and LDL-c. It also reduces liver lipid droplet deposition, restores intestinal integrity, and lowers LPS levels in the serum. Furthermore, Baizhu downregulates the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB in colon tissue along with IL-6, TLR4, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and ESRRG in liver tissue. This process suppresses FIB synthesis through the downregulation of the IL-6/STAT3/ESRRG pathway.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- blood hyperviscosity
- decreased moisture content of intestine
- hypoglycemia
- increased susceptibility to pathogen
- microcirculation disorders
What herbs are paired with Atractylodes macrocephala?
This plant Atractylodes macrocephala is frequently paired with herbs such as Poria cocos, Dioscorea yamamotoii, and Pinellia ternata to enhance its ability to dry dampness and strengthen the spleen.
These combinations are designed to harmonize the digestive system and resolve fluid retention within the body. When used with Poria cocos, the mixture works synergistically to promote urination and reduce swelling. Pairing it with Dioscorea yamamotoii helps to further fortify the middle jiao while maintaining a balance of qi.
Practitioners select these specific herbal allies to tailor the formula's potency according to the patient's specific pattern of dampness.