Callicarpa cathayana
Callicarpa cathayana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Callicarpa cathayana is a distinctive shrub species known for its unique botanical characteristics and chemical properties. This plant is particularly noted for the presence of specialized secondary metabolites known as Clerodane Diterpenoids. These bioactive compounds are primarily concentrated within the plant's leaf structures. Researchers often study these specific chemical profiles to understand the plant's potential medicinal or defensive roles. Consequently, the leaf of Callicarpa cathayana serves as a vital subject for phytochemical investigation.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Callicarpa cathayana is a captivating shrub widely recognized by its beautiful common name, 華紫珠. This plant is celebrated for its striking clusters of vibrant purple berries that adorn its branches. Often found in various East Asian landscapes, it serves as a stunning ornamental piece in many gardens. The unique aesthetic of its fruit makes it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking seasonal color. Whether growing wild or cultivated, this species brings a touch of elegance to any botanical collection.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Callicarpa cathayana is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Lamiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Lamiaceae family, it shares characteristics with many well-known aromatic herbs. Finally, this species is identified by its unique genus, Callicarpa.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Callicarpa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Callicarpa cathayana is a notable species primarily found within the Asia-temperate region. Its natural distribution is concentrated heavily throughout various parts of China. Specifically, the plant thrives across the landscapes of China South-Central. It also maintains a significant presence within the China Southeast territories. These geographical patterns highlight the specific environmental niches this plant calls home.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Callicarpa cathayana is a self-supporting shrub that maintains its own structure without the need for external assistance or climbing supports.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Callicarpa cathayana serves as a rich natural source for the discovery of unique chemical compounds. Recent phytochemical investigations into the plant's leaves and twigs have led to the successful isolation of several clerodane diterpenoids. These specific metabolites include six new cathayanalactones, labeled A through F, along with seven additional analogues. Through extensive NMR and ECD spectra analyses, researchers have been able to precisely establish these complex structures. Notably, several of these isolated compounds demonstrate significant potential for anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting nitric oxide production in cellular models.
Conditions
Callicarpa cathayana contains specific clerodane diterpenoids that exhibit significant anti-inflammatory potential. Certain isolated compounds from its leaves and twigs, such as cathayanalactones, effectively inhibit lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells. Additionally, this plant functions as a natural oxidation inhibitor capable of protecting the liver. Its hepatoprotective properties are linked to its strong antilipid peroxidation activity within hepatic homogenates. These combined biochemical actions demonstrate the plant's therapeutic utility in managing inflammation and oxidative stress in liver tissues.
Preparations
Parts used
Callicarpa cathayana serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds, particularly within its foliage. Recent phytochemical investigations have focused on the plant's leaves and twigs to isolate unique chemical structures. Through these studies, researchers successfully identified six new clerodane diterpenoids known as cathayanalactones A-F. These specific leaf-derived compounds, along with several analogues, demonstrate remarkable potential for medicinal use. Notably, certain derivatives showed promising inhibitory activities against inflammation in cellular models.