Bidens pilosa
Bidens pilosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (23 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Bidens pilosa is a versatile plant whose medicinal potential is derived from its leaves, roots, stems, and flowers. Through various preparations such as aqueous extracts, essential oils, and leaf extracts, it demonstrates significant antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and anticancer activities. The plant's therapeutic efficacy is supported by a rich chemical profile containing flavonoids, saponins, copper, and manganese. These compounds allow it to address diverse medical conditions, ranging from hypertension and malaria to infections caused by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Consequently, this species serves as a vital resource in pharmacological research for developing potent anti-hypertensive and anti-malarial treatments.
- Synonyms
- Coreopsis Multifida Var. Mutica · Bidens Pilosa F. Monophylla · 65 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Bidens pilosa is a widely recognized plant that carries a diverse array of names across different regions and cultures. It is frequently referred to by the common names Acetillo and Ajeran in various local dialects. Some communities also identify this species as Amor seco, highlighting its distinct physical characteristics. In other areas, the plant is known as Batimadramadra, showcasing the linguistic variety associated with its presence. Finally, it is often called Beggar's tick, a name that reflects its tendency to cling to clothing and travelers.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Bidens pilosa is a taxonomically complex species that is recognized by several different botanical synonyms. Among its various scientific names are Bidens abadiae and the specific variety Bidens abadiae var. pilosoides. The plant has also been historically identified under the names Bidens adhaerescens and Bidens africana. Furthermore, literature may refer to this taxon as Bidens alausensis depending on the regional classification used. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate botanical identification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Bidens pilosa is a fascinating organism that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Asterales, which connects it to many other significant flowering species. More specifically, it is a member of the widely recognized family Asteraceae. Finally, this plant is categorized under the specific genus Bidens, defining its unique botanical identity.
| 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 pilosa maintains a widespread presence across the African continent and throughout the Macaronesia region. Its geographical reach extends specifically to the Azores, where it has established a notable foothold. The species is also frequently documented throughout the Canary Islands and the lush landscapes of Cape Verde. Furthermore, its distribution encompasses the islands of Madeira as well as the Selvagens archipelago. This broad range highlights the plant's ability to thrive across diverse Atlantic island ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Bidens pilosa is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinct growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.8 meters, allowing it to stand prominently in its environment. While it can occasionally appear as a low-growing specimen starting from 0 meters, it more commonly establishes a more substantial presence. Most healthy individuals maintain a minimum height of at least 0.65 meters as they mature. Consequently, its variable stature makes it a versatile component of its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Bidens pilosa is a versatile medicinal plant recognized for a wide array of biological activities that support human health. Research highlights its significant antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which assist in managing oxidative stress and fighting various bacterial pathogens. The plant also demonstrates notable antifungal capabilities, particularly when used in the synthesis of nanoparticles to combat pathogenic fungi. Furthermore, studies have identified its cytotoxic potential, which is being explored through the analysis of specific bioactive marker compounds. Beyond these functions, Bidens pilosa provides important antiallergic effects, contributing to its traditional use in treating various immunological disorders.
Compounds
Bidens pilosa is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse array of bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic potential. Scientific analysis has identified that the plant contains essential constituents such as flavonoids and chlorogenic acid, which support its various biological activities. Furthermore, the presence of cytopiloyne within the species allows it to function as a significant T cell modulator. The chemical profile is further enriched by ethyl caffeate, a natural phenolic compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the plant contains 2-hydroxy-3-methylbenzaldehyde, highlighting the complex chemical composition that drives its ethnopharmacological effects.
Conditions
Bidens pilosa is recognized for its diverse medicinal properties, including its ability to treat diabetes and act as an anti-diabetic agent. Research indicates that the plant also effectively treats hypertension, demonstrating significant hypotensive effects in various studies. Furthermore, it is utilized for its anti-inflammatory capabilities to manage various health concerns. These biological activities support its traditional use in treating a wide range of inflammatory diseases.
Preparations
Bidens pilosa is prepared as various extracts, including aqueous extracts and methanol extracts, to investigate its diverse medicinal properties. Research shows that Bidens pilosa is prepared as leaf extracts for phytochemical profiling and the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles. Furthermore, Bidens pilosa is prepared as essential oils to assess their growth inhibitory effects on oral pathogens and their impact on proinflammatory mediators. Studies have utilized these different preparation methods to evaluate the plant's antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-proliferative activities. Through these various forms, the plant demonstrates significant potential in treating infections and managing cellular proliferation.
Parts used
Bidens pilosa is a highly versatile medicinal plant that contains various bioactive components across its different anatomical structures. Scientific studies have utilized the leaves and roots to develop potent extracts for antimalarial and antihypertensive treatments. Additionally, the plant's stem serves as a host for endophytic fungi that possess significant antifungal and cytotoxic properties. Researchers also process the aerial parts, including the stems, leaves, and flowers, to investigate their efficacy against parasites like Trypanosoma cruzi. By examining these diverse parts, scientists continue to uncover the complex chemical profiles that contribute to the plant's wide range of therapeutic applications.