Chromolaena squalida
Chromolaena squalida · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Chromolaena squalida is a botanical species that has gained significant attention within the field of ethnopharmacology. Recent scientific investigations have focused on its potential efficacy in managing conditions such as malaria. Researchers have specifically explored the therapeutic properties found within various crude extracts of the plant. These studies aim to isolate the bioactive compounds responsible for its medicinal effects against parasitic infections. Understanding these chemical profiles is essential for developing new treatments derived from natural sources.
- Synonyms
- Eupatorium Squalidum Var. Martiusii · Eupatorium Squalidum Var. Subvelutinum · 17 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Chromolaena squalida is a botanical species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout history. Within taxonomic literature, it is frequently identified by its synonym Eupatorium crenatum. Researchers have also recorded the plant under the nomenclature of Eupatorium dichotomum and Eupatorium martii. Furthermore, the species is linked to the synonyms Eupatorium martiusii and Eupatorium paulinum. Understanding these various designations is essential for maintaining accurate botanical records and classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Chromolaena squalida belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, showcasing its unique botanical structure. The species is a member of the order Asterales, which connects it to many other significant flowering plants. Furthermore, it is nested within the extensive family Asteraceae, a group known for its complex inflorescences. Finally, its specific biological identity is defined by its placement within the genus Chromolaena.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Chromolaena |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Chromolaena squalida maintains a widespread geographical presence that spans across multiple continents and diverse ecological zones. In the Australasian region, the species is notably established within Australia, specifically throughout Queensland. Its reach extends significantly into South America, where it is widely distributed throughout the various regions of Brazil. This includes extensive coverage in Northern Brazil, as well as throughout the Northeast, South, and Southeast territories. Such a broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in vastly different environmental landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Chromolaena squalida is characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This plant maintains its structure as a self-supporting species within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Chromolaena squalida, also identified as Eupatorium squalidum in the research, demonstrates specific antimalarial properties. This plant was found to be partly active against rodent malaria during in vivo testing. Specifically, extracts from the plant showed a 40-50% inhibition of Plasmodium berghei multiplication in mice. These results suggest that the species plays a role in treating rodent malaria through its biological activity. Consequently, the plant is highlighted as one of the medicinal species capable of addressing malaria-related infections.
Preparations
Chromolaena squalida, also referred to in the text as Eupatorium squalidum, is prepared as crude extracts for pharmacological evaluation. These extracts were part of a study involving 273 different plant preparations tested for antimalarial activity. Through a randomic approach, the extracts from this specific plant were investigated for their potential to inhibit malaria parasites. The research focused on testing such crude extracts in vivo using mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. Ultimately, the preparation of these extracts allowed researchers to determine that the plant shows partial activity against rodent malaria.