Bidens bipinnata
Bidens bipinnata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Bidens bipinnata is a versatile plant recognized for its significant antimicrobial activities in traditional medicine. Research has identified the presence of key chemical compounds within the species, such as 16-Pregnenolone. When prepared as a hexane extract, the plant serves as a potent natural remedy for various ailments. It is frequently utilized to combat challenging conditions including dysentery and malaria. Additionally, this plant offers effective relief for those suffering from a sore throat.
- Synonyms
- Kerneria Bipinnata · Bidens Decomposita · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Bidens bipinnata is a versatile plant known by several distinct common names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as Bipinnate Beggar's Ticks or simply as Bipinnate Beggarticks. Some botanical circles also use the variations Bident bipenne and Bident bipénné to identify the species. Additionally, the plant is recognized by its German name, Fiederblaettriger Zweizahn. Understanding these various names helps enthusiasts identify this specific species regardless of the linguistic terminology used.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Bidens bipinnata is a taxonomically complex species that has been classified under several different names throughout botanical history. Among its many recognized synonyms is the variety Bidens bipinnata var. biternatoides, which reflects subtle morphological distinctions. Researchers have also documented the plant under the names Bidens bipinnata var. minor and Bidens cicutifolia. Further taxonomic variations include the designations Bidens decomposita and Bidens elongata. Understanding these various relationships is essential for accurately identifying the species across different regions and studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Bidens bipinnata is a unique organism belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Asterales, showcasing its specialized evolutionary lineage. As a member of the family Asteraceae, it shares structural characteristics with many well-known flowering species. Finally, its specific identity is defined by its placement within the genus Bidens.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Bidens bipinnata exhibits an expansive geographic range that spans across much of the African continent and the Macaronesia region. Within Africa, its presence is notably felt in Northern regions such as Egypt and throughout the islands of Cape Verde. The species also thrives in South Tropical Africa, with documented occurrences in countries like Zimbabwe. Further south, the plant maintains a significant distribution throughout Botswana and the Cape Provinces. This widespread connectivity highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse African landscapes and coastal environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Bidens bipinnata is characterized by its distinct growth form as a herbaceous plant. This species is naturally self-supporting, allowing it to stand upright without external assistance. In terms of size, the plant can reach a maximum height of 1.6 meters. While its height can technically start from a minimum of 0 meters during early development, it typically establishes itself more robustly. Most mature specimens are frequently observed maintaining a minimum height of 1 meter.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Bidens bipinnata is a widely utilized medicinal plant traditionally used to treat conditions such as malaria, sore throat, and dysentery. While its various therapeutic uses are well-known, recent research has focused on formally documenting its specific antimicrobial effects. Through bioassay-guided purification of leaf extracts, researchers successfully isolated key compounds like 16-Pregnenolone and 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester. Testing via the broth dilution procedure confirmed that 16-Pregnenolone exhibits strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. This study marks the first formal report on isolating these specific bioactive compounds from the plant to validate its germ-fighting potential.
Compounds
Bidens bipinnata is a widely utilized medicinal plant traditionally used to treat conditions such as malaria, dysentery, and sore throat. Recent in-vitro investigations have focused on exploring its untapped antimicrobial potential through bioassay-guided purification of leaf extracts. Using advanced chromatography techniques, researchers successfully isolated several active compounds from the hexane extract. Among these identified substances, 16-Pregnenolone emerged as a significant component. Notably, this compound demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, marking a breakthrough in understanding the plant's chemical profile.
Conditions
Bidens bipinnata is a widely utilized medicinal plant used in the traditional treatment of several different ailments. Specifically, this species is employed to treat acute nephritis and dysentery. The plant also serves as a remedy for malaria. Additionally, it is used to provide relief for a sore throat. These diverse medicinal applications highlight the plant's importance in treating various health conditions.
Preparations
Bidens bipinnata is prepared as a hexane extract derived specifically from its leaves. This particular extract was identified as the most active form during the examination of its antimicrobial properties. Following its preparation, the hexane extract was subjected to automated column chromatography for further study. Through bioassay-guided purification, this extract facilitated the isolation of specific active compounds. Consequently, the preparation of Bidens bipinnata as a hexane extract served as the essential foundation for identifying 16-Pregnenolone and 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester.