Bidens pilosa
What's the taxonomical classification of Bidens pilosa?
Bidens pilosa belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is categorized under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this classification, it is placed in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Following the biological hierarchy further, it is part of the order Asterales and falls within the family Asteraceae. Ultimately, the plant is identified by its specific genus, Bidens, and its species designation, pilosa.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
| Species | pilosa |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Bidens pilosa has an erect, herbaceous stem that typically reaches heights of 30 to 100 centimeters and is characterized by a dense covering of spreading, bristly hairs. The leaves are oppositely arranged, trifoliate or pinnately lobed, and possess serrated margins with a rough, pubescent texture. Small, white or yellow flower heads are found in terminal clusters, consisting of ray florets that surround a central disc of yellow tubular florets. The plant is most distinctive for its achene fruits, which are black, elongated, and equipped with two to four barbed awns designed for animal dispersal. These specialized bristles allow the seeds to cling easily to fur or clothing.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, ranging from the southern United States through Central America and into much of South America. It is frequently found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and open fields where sunlight is abundant. Its distribution is particularly widespread in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. Because it thrives in various warm climates, it has become naturalized in several other tropical zones across the globe. The species maintains a presence in both coastal and inland habitats within its primary range.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
Bidens pilosa contains medicinal compounds primarily located in its leaves, stems, and roots. The leaves are frequently harvested to prepare decoctions or infusions used to treat inflammation and digestive issues. Additionally, the whole plant, including the roots and stems, is often utilized in traditional medicine to combat infections and promote wound healing. Some preparations specifically focus on the seeds to address various ailments. These diverse parts work together to provide a wide range of therapeutic properties in herbal remedies.
What are the pharmacological activities of Bidens pilosa?
This plant has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and antiprotoczoal pharmacological activities. Its potent antioxidant properties help neutralize harmful free radicals within biological systems. The plant also exhibits significant antimicrobial and antiprotoczoal actions by inhibiting the growth of various bacteria and parasites. Additionally, its antidiabetic effects contribute to the management of blood glucose levels. These diverse therapeutic properties make it a valuable subject for medicinal research.
As discussed in a study, Bidens pilosa L. is a source of the Gui Zhen Cao herbal formulation used in Chinese traditional medicine to remedy diarrhea, dysentery, inflammation, and toxicity. The vegetative parts of this plant are rich in tannins, saponins, oxalates, cyanogenic glycoside and lipids, while its roots contain high percentages of alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols. The study evaluated the in vitro anticandiida activity of these plants. Through the use of HPLC-DAD and GC-MS/MS analysis, two anticandiida compounds were identified. These specific compounds, dehydroabietic and linoleic acid, demonstrated inhibition rates of 85% and 92%, respectively.
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, polyacetylenes, cardiac glycosides, and saponins that serve as its primary medicinal compounds. The flavonoids and phenolic acids function as potent antioxidants to protect cells from oxidative stress. Polyacetylenes provide additional antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties within the plant's chemical profile. Cardiac glycosides act on the heart muscle to regulate contraction, though they must be used with extreme caution. Finally, saponins contribute to the plant's overall biological activity by influencing membrane permeability and immune responses.
As discussed in a study, the leaf extract of B. pilosa contains high phenolic levels of 72 μg GAE/mg extract and flavonoids of 123.3 μg Quercetiin/mg extract. The analysis identified 5 bioactive compounds and 6 volatile compounds that may be responsible for the plant's bioactivities. Notably, the anticancerous compound Paclitaxel was detected and quantified for the first time from the B. pilosa leaves extract. The extract demonstrated antimicrobial activity against E. coli with an MIC of 80 μg/mL and an IC50 of 110.04 μg/mL. Additionally, the scavenging IC50 values for DPPH and ABTS were 80.45 μg/mL and 171.6 μg/mL respectively. The extract also showed significant cytotoxicity against KB-3-1 human epidermoid carcinoma cells with an IC50 value of 99.56 μg/mL.
What health problems is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating various ailments including cancer, diabetes, inflammation, infection, and wounds. Its bioactive compounds provide significant medicinal properties that help manage blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. The plant also contains potent antimicrobial agents that combat infection and promote the rapid healing of open wounds. Additionally, its natural anti-inflammatory effects help reduce swelling and pain throughout the body. Researchers are also investigating its potential role in inhibiting the growth of certain cancer cells.
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant can be prepared as an infusion, a decoction, a tea, a tincture, or an extract to utilize its medicinal properties. An infusion involves steeping the delicate leaves in hot water to create a mild tea for gentle consumption. For tougher plant parts like the roots or stems, a decoction is made by simmering them in water for an extended period. Tinctures are created by soaking the plant material in alcohol to concentrate its active compounds for long-term storage. Concentrated extracts can also be produced through various solvent processes to provide a potent dose of the herb's constituents.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Infusion
- Decoction
- Tea
- Tincture
- Extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain if ingested. These gastrointestinal issues often arise shortly after consuming the botanical material. Some individuals may also experience a sense of lightheadedness or vertigo. Severe cases might involve persistent abdominal discomfort or frequent bouts of sickness. Monitoring these symptoms is essential when encountering this specific species.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain