Chenopodium opulifolium
Chenopodium opulifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Chenopodium opulifolium is a botanical species of interest due to its diverse profile of bioactive compounds, including saponins, steroids, and terpenoids. Research into this plant often focuses on the medicinal potential of its roots, which serve as a primary source for therapeutic study. Scientists frequently utilize aqueous and ethanolic extracts, as well as specific water extracts of the roots, to isolate these potent constituents. One significant area of application for these preparations is the management of skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation. Consequently, the chemical complexity of this plant offers promising avenues for dermatological advancements.
- Synonyms
- Vulvaria Opulifolia · Chenopodium Ugandae · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Chenopodium opulifolium is a botanical species known by a diverse array of regional and linguistic identifiers. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently referred to by its common name, Broad-Leaved Goosefoot. This plant also carries distinct titles across Europe, such as the French Chenopode a feuilles d'obier and the Danish Kortbladet Gåsefod. Italian speakers recognize the species through the descriptive names Farinello con foglie di viburno or Farinello con le foglie di viburno. These various monikers reflect the plant's widespread presence and its deep roots in different cultural landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Chenopodium opulifolium is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within various scientific records, it has been identified under the name Anserina opulifolia. The plant is also closely linked to several classifications of the common lambsquarters, specifically as Chenopodium album subsp. opulifolium and Chenopodium album var. opulifolium. Furthermore, its identity has historically overlapped with Chenopodium mucronatum var. subintegrum and Chenopodium nitidispermum. Navigating these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Chenopodium opulifolium is a distinctive biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Caryophyllales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the Amaranthaceae family, a group known for its diverse botanical characteristics. Ultimately, it is categorized under the genus Chenopodium, which defines its closer botanical relatives.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Chenopodium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Chenopodium opulifolium exhibits a diverse geographical distribution across several key regions of the African continent. It is prominently found within East Tropical Africa, with established populations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Beyond the mainland, the species also extends its reach into the Macaronesia archipelago. Specifically, it can be located throughout the Azores and the Canary Islands. This wide range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in both continental and oceanic environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Chenopodium opulifolium is a versatile herb that grows in a self-supporting manner. This plant exhibits a significant range in stature, depending on its specific environmental conditions. While some individuals may only reach a minimum height of 0.25 meters, others can grow much taller. Many specimens typically establish themselves at a minimum height of approximately 1.07 meters. Ultimately, the plant can reach a maximum height of up to 3 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Chenopodium opulifolium is a plant of significant interest due to its diverse chemical profile. Detailed phytochemical analysis reveals that this species contains essential bioactive compounds such as saponins. Furthermore, the plant is characterized by the presence of various steroids within its structure. It also serves as a source of terpenoids, which contribute to its biological properties. Together, these specific constituents define the complex chemical makeup of the species.
Conditions
Chenopodium opulifolium is utilized for its ability to treat black skin stain removal. This plant is also applied for the purpose of skin softening. Beyond dermatological uses, it serves as a treatment for the mollusks Biomphalaria pfeifferi and Lymnaea natalensis. Additionally, the plant is employed to treat various human diarrheal cases. These diverse applications demonstrate the broad medicinal potential of the species.
Preparations
Chenopodium opulifolium is prepared as aqueous and ethanolic extracts for various pharmacological evaluations. These specific extraction methods are utilized to study the chemical properties of the plant. Additionally, Chenopodium opulifolium is prepared as a water extract of the roots to test for insecticidal properties. This root-based water extract demonstrated a high level of efficacy as a mosquito repellent initially. The study of these different preparation methods helps determine the potency and longevity of the plant's bioactive compounds.
Parts used
Chenopodium opulifolium holds significant interest in ethnomedicinal research due to its potential role as a mosquito repellent. Specifically, studies have focused on the medicinal properties found within the plant's root. During testing against the Anopheles arabiensis mosquito, a water extract derived from these roots demonstrated impressive initial efficacy. This extract was found to be 97% as effective as DEET after only two minutes of application. However, the potency of the root extract diminished significantly over time, dropping to 30% efficacy within two hours.