Biophytum umbraculum
What's the taxonomical classification of Biophytum umbraculum?
Biophytum umbraculum belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. The plant further falls into the order Oxalidales and is a member of the family Oxalidaceae. Finally, its specific taxonomic designation is defined by the genus Biophytum and the species umbraculum.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Biophytum |
| Species | umbraculum |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Biophytum umbraculum has large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 50 centimeters wide, supported by long, succulent petioles that emerge from a tuberous rhizome. These broad leaves are typically a deep green color and possess a smooth, thin texture characteristic of many tropical forest floor plants. The plant is most notable for its unique reproductive structures, which include large, fleshy flowers that emerge directly from the ground near the base. These blossoms often feature a distinct, umbrella-like appearance that helps define its common name. Following pollination, the plant produces fleshy fruits that eventually decay to release its seeds into the soil.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, specifically spanning across parts of China, Vietnam, and Thailand. It typically thrives in the shaded, humid understories of moist forest environments where sunlight is filtered through a dense canopy. Within these habitats, it is often found growing in rich, well-draining soils near stream banks or in damp ravines. The species exhibits a preference for low-altitude tropical climates that maintain consistent moisture levels throughout the year. Due to its specific ecological requirements, its natural range is restricted to these specialized microclimates.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires consistently moist, well-draining soil and filtered shade to thrive in a humid environment.
Because it is a shade-loving species, direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch. Maintaining high humidity levels through misting or a pebble tray will help mimic its natural tropical habitat. It performs best when kept in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Frequent watering is necessary to prevent the soil from drying out completely, though the roots must not sit in stagnant water.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Biophytum umbraculum utilizes its fleshy tuberous roots for medicinal applications in traditional practices. These underground structures contain specific bioactive compounds that are extracted to treat various ailments. Practitioners often prepare decoctions or poultices from the root to address skin inflammations and other localized issues. The medicinal properties are believed to stem from the unique chemical constituents stored within the thickened root mass. Using this specific part of the plant allows for the concentrated delivery of its natural healing elements.
According to a study published by "Journal of experimental pharmacology", the root of Biophytum umbraculum Welw. Syn is used in Ethiopian traditional medicine to treat epilepsy. Researchers evaluated the anticonvulsant effect of the hydroalcoholic extract and solvent fractions using mice divided into 5 groups where n = 6. The test groups received dosages of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of the hydroalcoholic extract and solvent fraction. In the maximum electric shock test and pentylenetetrazo test, the hydroalcoholic extract showed a significant effect compared to the negative control, which received 10 mL/kg of pure water or 2% Tween 80. The chloroform fraction also demonstrated a significant effect at dosages of MB200 and MB400 during the pentylenetetrazo test.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- root
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Biophytum umbraculum is utilized in Traditional African Medicine to treat various ailments such as skin infections, stomach pains, and fever. Practitioners often prepare decoctions or poultices from the leaves and roots to address these specific health concerns. Beyond its role in African healing practices, the plant has been documented in other historical contexts for its purported medicinal properties. Local communities have long relied on its bioactive compounds to manage minor injuries and digestive issues. This long-standing history reflects the plant's significant cultural and therapeutic importance in several regions.
According to a study published by "Journal of experimental pharmacology", Biophytum umbraculum Welw. Syn is used to treat epilepsy in Ethiopian traditional medicine. The plant's root was extracted using maceration with aqueous, butanol, and chloroform solvents. In experimental tests, mice were divided into 5 groups with n = 6. Test groups received 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of hydroalcoholic extract and solvent fraction. For the maximum electric shock test, positive control groups received 25 mg/kg phenytoin and 200 mg/kg valproate for the pentylenetetrazol test. The negative control was given 10 mL/kg of pure water or 2% Tween 80.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional African Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Biophytum umbraculum?
This plant has anti-complement, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial pharmacological activities. Its antioxidant properties help mitigate oxidative stress by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. The anti-inflammatory and anti-complement actions suggest its potential role in regulating immune responses and reducing swelling. Additionally, the plant demonstrates anticonvulsant effects which may assist in stabilizing neurological activity. Finally, its antiplasmodial activity indicates effectiveness against parasites that cause malaria.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Biophytum umbraculum is an African medicinal plant used for the treatment of cerebral malaria with a fidelity level of 56%. The ethyl acetate extract of the plant demonstrated anti-complement activity with an IC50 of 5.7±1.6μg/ml. Additionally, the extract showed inhibition of macrophage activation with an IC50 of 16.4±1.3μg/ml. Regarding in vitro antiplasmodial activity, the extract yielded an IC50 K1 of 5.6±0.13μg/ml and an IC50 NF54 of 6.7±0.03μg/ml. The main constituents, which are flavone C-glycosides, did not contribute to the activity of the extract.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-complement
- anti-inflammatory
- anticonvulsant
- antioxidant
- antiplasmodial
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a variety of medicinal compounds including cassiaoccidentalin A, flavone C-glycosides, isoorientin, isovitexin, and several other flavonoids. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the complex pharmacological profile observed in the species. The presence of isoorientin and isovitexin is particularly noteworthy for their biological activities. Additionally, the diverse group of flavonoids provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These phytochemicals work together to define the therapeutic potential of the plant.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", three flavone-C-glycosides were isolated from the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol crude extract of Biophytum umbraculum. These specific compounds are identified as cassiaoccidentalin A (1), isovitexin (2), and isoorientin (3). This study represents the first report of these 3 compounds in this plant. Among them, isoorientin (3) and the ethyl acetate extract demonstrated the greatest antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay. Additionally, isoorientin (3) and the extract showed the strongest inhibition of xanthine oxidase (XO) and 15-lipoxygenase (15-LO).
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- cassiaoccidentalin A
- isoorientin
- isovitexin
- flavone C-glycosides
- flavonoids
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating cerebral malaria, falciparum malaria, general malaria, gastrointestinal diseases, and wounds. Its medicinal properties are frequently applied to combat various forms of malaria caused by different parasite strains. It also serves as a remedy for various gastrointestinal diseases to aid digestive health. Additionally, the plant is used topically to help heal different types of wounds. These diverse applications demonstrate the broad therapeutic potential of the species in traditional medicine.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Biophytum umbraculum is a highly valued African medicinal plant used for the treatment of cerebral malaria, which is a complication of falciparum malaria, with a fidelity level of 56%. The ethyl acetate extract demonstrated antiplasmodial activity with an IC50 K1 of 5.6±0.13μg/ml and an IC50 NF54 of 6.7±0.03μg/ml. This same extract also showed anti-complement activity with an ICH50 of 5.7±1.6μg/ml. Additionally, the plant extract exhibited inhibition of macrophage activation with an IC50 of 16.4±1.3μg/ml. These anti-inflammatory and anti-complement effects might serve as targets for adjunctive therapy in cerebral malaria.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- cerebral malaria
- falciparum malaria
- malaria
- gastrointestinial diseases
- wounds
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is processed into medicinal herbal preparations such as the butanol fraction and ethyl acetate extract to isolate bioactive compounds. These specific extracts are studied for their potential pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers utilize solvent partitioning to separate the plant's constituents into these distinct chemical fractions. The ethyl acetate extract often contains specific flavonoids or phenolic compounds that contribute to its therapeutic potential. Similarly, the butanol fraction is analyzed to identify more polar molecules that may hold medicinal value. Through these preparation methods, the chemical profile of Biophytum umbraculum is refined for pharmaceutical investigation.
According to a study published by "Journal of experimental pharmacology", Biophytum umbraculum Welw. Syn is used in Ethiopian traditional medicine to treat epilepsy. The plant's root was extracted using aqueous, butanol, and chloroform as solvents through a maceration procedure. In tests involving five groups of mice with n = 6, the hydroalcoholic extract and solvent fractions were administered at dosages of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. The hydroalcoholic extract and the butanol component showed a significant anticonvulsant effect in both the maximum electric shock test and the pentylenetetrazo test. Additionally, the chloroform fraction demonstrated a significant anticonvulsant effect at dosages of MB200 and MB400 during the pentylenetetrazo test. Both the hydroalcoholic and solvent fractions were found to contain flavonoids, phenols, tannins, steroids, terpenoids, and saponins.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- butanol fraction
- ethyl acetate extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause adverse health effects such as skin irritation, digestive upset, and potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. When the leaves or stems come into direct contact with the skin, they may trigger redness or localized itching. Consuming parts of the plant may also lead to nausea or stomach discomfort if not prepared correctly. Some people might experience more severe hypersensitivity symptoms like rashes or swelling after exposure. Monitoring your reaction to this species is essential to avoid these unpleasant physiological responses.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Biophytum umbraculum?
This plant Biophytum umbraculum is traditionally paired with herbs such as ginger, licorice root, and peppermint to enhance its physiological effects.
These combinations are often used in traditional herbal preparations to balance the plant's cooling properties. Adding ginger can provide a warming contrast that aids in digestion during consumption. Licorice root is frequently included to act as a natural sweetener and to soothe the throat.
Peppermint is sometimes integrated to provide a refreshing aromatic quality to the mixture.