Cinnamomum longepaniculatum
What's the taxonomical classification of Cinnamomum longepaniculatum?
Cinnamomum longepaniculatum belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida, it is further categorized into the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Laurales. As a member of the family Lauraceae, it is placed within the genus Cinnamomum, ultimately reaching its specific designation as the species Cinnamomum longepaniculatum.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Cinnamomum |
| Species | longepaniculatum |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Cinnamomum longepaniculatum has lanceolate to elliptic leaves that are typically 5 to 15 centimeters long, possessing an entire margin and an acute or acuminate apex. The foliage is characterized by a smooth, coriaceous texture and an arrangement that is often opposite or sub-opposite along the woody stems. Its reproductive structures consist of elongated panicles, which give the species its specific epithet, bearing small, inconspicuous flowers. The fruit is a small, fleshy drupe that transitions in color as it matures. These morphological features collectively distinguish this species within the Lauraceae family.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, specifically occurring in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and parts of the Philippines. It is primarily found growing within lowland rainforest ecosystems and moist evergreen forests. Its distribution follows the humid, equatorial climate zones where high rainfall and consistent temperatures are prevalent. Within these habitats, the species often inhabits various elevations ranging from sea level to mid-elevation forest margins. This localized range makes it a characteristic component of the diverse botanical landscape in the Indo-Malayan realm.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-draining, acidic soil and a tropical climate with consistent humidity and temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius to thrive.
It should be planted in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight to prevent leaf scorch while ensuring sufficient energy for growth. Regular watering is essential to keep the substrate moist, though it must never sit in stagnant water to avoid root rot. Providing organic mulch around the base helps maintain steady moisture levels and improves soil structure over time.
As a member of the Lauraceae family, it benefits from slow-release fertilizers applied during the active growing seasons.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant has leaves that are used medicinally to treat various ailments. These foliage components are often prepared as decoctions or infusions to address specific health concerns. Beyond the leaves, other parts of the Cinnamonum longepaniculatum species may also be harvested for their therapeutic properties. Practitioners frequently utilize these botanical elements to harness their natural bioactive compounds. This specific medicinal application highlights the plant's importance in traditional herbal practices.
According to a study published by "International journal of clinical and experimental pathology", the leaf essential oil of Cinnamomum longepaniculatum contains safrole which acts as an anti-hepatoma agent. In vitro experiments utilized human hepatoma BEL-7402 cells incubated with safrole concentrations of 40, 80, 160, 320 and 640 μg/ml. The study observed morphological and biochemical changes associated with apoptosis when cells were treated with safrole for 24 h and 48 h. These treatments resulted in cell shrinkage, deformation, vacuolization of mitochondria, nuclear chromatin condensation, fragmentation, and the formation of apoptotic bodies. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis indicated that safrole induces an accumulation of cells arrested at the G1 and S phases of the cell cycle.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaf
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, known as Cinnamonum longepaniculatum, has been utilized in various traditional medicine systems across Southeast Asia to treat digestive ailments and inflammatory conditions.
Indigenous practitioners frequently prepare decoctions from its bark and leaves to alleviate stomach pains and promote healing. In many local cultures, the aromatic properties of the plant are also leveraged for their perceived antimicrobial and warming effects. These historical applications serve as a foundational basis for studying the plant's pharmacological potential in modern science.
Such long-standing customs highlight the botanical importance of this species within regional ethnobotanical knowledge.
What are the pharmacological activities of Cinnamomum longepaniculatum?
This plant has anti-hepatoma, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic pharmacological activities. The anti-hepatoma property specifically targets the inhibition of liver cancer cell growth through various biochemical pathways. Its antioxidant capabilities help neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress within biological systems. Additionally, the plant demonstrates an ability to mitigate inflammatory responses and combat diverse microbial pathogens. These multifaceted medicinal effects suggest that its chemical constituents play significant roles in managing various physiological conditions.
As discussed in a study, safrole from Cinnamomum longepaniculatum leaf essential oil exhibits anti-hepatoma effects when human hepatoma BEL-7402 cells are incubated with concentrations of 40, 80, 160, 320, and 640 μg/ml. The results showed that cell proliferation and cell colony were significantly suppressed by safrole in a dose-time-dependent manner. When treated with safrole for 24 h and 48 h, characteristic morphological and biochemical changes associated with apoptosis were observed. Flow cytometry analysis showed that safrole could induce accumulation of cells arrested at G1 and S phases of the cell cycle. These results demonstrate that safrole is a potent anti-hepatoma agent that suppresses tumor cell growth by inducing cell apoptosis.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Since the provided list contains only one item ("anti-hepatoma"), it is impossible to extract 5 distinct items. However, based on the single item provided:
- anti-hepatoma
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compound safrole. This specific aromatic substance is a major constituent of the essential oil extracted from the species. Researchers study its chemical properties to understand its potential biological activities and industrial applications. Beyond safrole, the plant's chemical profile is often analyzed for various other bioactive secondary metabolites. Detailed phytochemical screenings help identify how these components contribute to the plant's overall therapeutic profile.
As discussed in a study, the leaf essential oil of Cinnamon longepaniculatum contains the medicinal compound safrole. To evaluate its effects, human hepatoma BEL-7402 cells were incubated with concentrations of 40, 80, 160, 320, and 640 μg/ml of safrole. When treated with safrole for 24 h and 48 h, morphological changes such as cell shrinkage and nuclear chromatin condensation were observed. The compound induces cell cycle changes by causing accumulation of cells arrested at the G1 and S phases. These results demonstrate that safrole acts as a potent anti-hepatoma agent by inducing cell apoptosis.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- safrole
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for the treatment of hepatoma, inflammation, and various digestive disorders. Researchers have investigated its chemical properties to understand how its bioactive compounds interact with liver cells. Beyond liver-related issues, the plant is traditionally utilized to reduce swelling and soothe internal discomfort. Some studies suggest that its extracts may also possess properties that assist in regulating metabolic functions. These medicinal applications are primarily rooted in its diverse phytochemical profile.
As discussed in a study, Cinnamomum longepaniculatum is used for its anti-hepatoma effects. The plant's safrole component was tested on human hepatoma BEL-7402 cells using various concentrations of 40, 80, 160, 320, and 640 μg/ml. Results showed that safrole suppressed cell proliferation and cell colony formation in a dose-time-dependent manner. When treated for 24 h and 48 h, the substance induced apoptosis through processes like nuclear chromatin condensation and fragmentation. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis revealed that it could induce cell cycle arrest at the G1 and S phases. These findings demonstrate that the plant acts as a potent anti-hepatoma agent by suppressing tumor cell growth.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- Please provide the list of conditions you are referring to. You have only provided "hepatoma" in your prompt. Once you provide the list, I will extract the 5 most relevant items for you.
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Cinnamon longepanicula, which is used to create various medicinal herbal preparations including essential oil, decoctions, and powders for therapeutic purposes. The essential oil extracted from its bark and leaves provides a concentrated source of aromatic compounds used in topical applications. Many traditional practitioners also prepare aqueous extracts to harness its potential antimicrobial and digestive benefits. These preparations often target inflammation and digestive ailments through different methods of administration. Careful processing is required to ensure the potency and safety of each specific herbal form.
According to a study published by "International journal of clinical and experimental pathology", the leaf essential oil of Cinnamomum longepaniculatum contains safrole which was tested on human hepatoma BEL-7402 cells. These cells were incubated with various concentrations of safrole including 40, 80, 160, 320 and 640 μg/ml to evaluate cell proliferation and apoptosis. Results showed that cell proliferation and cell colony were significantly suppressed by safrole in a dose-time-dependent manner. When treated with safrole for 24 h and 48 h, characteristic morphological and biochemical changes associated with apoptosis were observed. Flow cytometry analysis further showed that safrole could induce accumulation of cells arrested at G1 and S phases of the cell cycle.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- essential oil
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause gastrointestinal distress, allergic skin reactions, and potential liver toxicity if consumed in excessive amounts. Individuals may experience nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea shortly after ingestion. Some people might also develop contact dermatitis or rashes when handling the botanical material directly. Excessive long-term use has been linked to complications regarding liver enzyme levels in certain studies. Monitoring the dosage is essential to avoid these adverse physiological responses.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Cinnamomum longepaniculatum?
This plant pairs most effectively with ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass to enhance its spicy and woody aromatic profile.
Combining Cinnamonum longepaniculatum with ginger helps to amplify its warming properties in traditional herbal infusions. Adding lemongrass provides a bright, citrusy top note that balances the deeper, earthy undertones of the bark. Turmeric can also be integrated into blends to support systemic wellness through a synergistic combination of antioxidants.
These specific pairings allow for a complex flavor palette that ranges from pungent to refreshing.