Cleome rutidosperma

Cleome rutidosperma · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Cleome rutidosperma is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Research focusing on the plant's leaves has demonstrated that these parts possess notable antibacterial, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial activities. These therapeutic properties are primarily investigated through the use of aqueous and 70% ethanolic extracts of the leaves, as well as pure ethanolic extracts. By evaluating these specific preparations, scientists aim to better understand the bioactive compounds responsible for such medicinal effects. Consequently, this plant represents a promising subject for further drug discovery and natural product research.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Sieruela Rutidosperma
Common names
Not available
Family
Cleomaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Leaf

Classification

Synonyms

Cleome rutidosperma is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different names in scientific literature. One of its most recognized synonyms is Sieruela rutidosperma, a designation that remains relevant for researchers tracking its classification. Understanding these nomenclatural links is essential for maintaining accuracy in taxonomic studies and herbarium records. Because botanical names can shift as new genetic data emerges, recognizing both terms ensures that data remains consistent across various databases. Consequently, whether a scholar refers to it as Cleome or Sieruela, they are describing the same unique organism.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Cleome rutidosperma belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, showcasing the vast complexity of the botanical world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Brassicales, a group that links it to several other significant flowering plants. As a member of the family Cleomaceae, it displays unique morphological characteristics specific to its lineage. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its placement within the genus Cleome, which characterizes its specific evolutionary identity.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Brassicales
Family Cleomaceae
Genus Cleome

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Cleome rutidosperma is a resilient plant species with a diverse distribution spanning several regions across the African continent. Its presence is noted throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically within the territories of Tanzania and Uganda. The species also extends its reach into Macaronesia, finding a foothold in the Cape Verde islands. Moving toward the northern reaches of the continent, it can be found in Northeast Tropical Africa, including Chad. Finally, its range encompasses the Sudan-South Sudan region, demonstrating a broad ecological footprint.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Cleome rutidosperma is a distinct herbaceous plant characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This species typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of approximately 1 meter. Depending on environmental conditions, its growth can vary, often starting at a minimum height of about 0.61 meters. In many stable habitats, the plant consistently establishes itself with a minimum height of 0.8 meters. These structural dimensions define its presence within its natural ecosystem.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Cleome rutidosperma is a versatile medicinal weed that demonstrates several significant biological properties in recent scientific studies. Research into its aqueous and ethanolic extracts has confirmed that the plant possesses notable antioxidant activity, which is essential for combating oxidative stress. Furthermore, investigations using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method have highlighted its effective antibacterial capabilities. The plant also shows promise in the fight against malaria, as it has been identified as having antiplasmodial activity against the Plasmodium falciparum strain. These diverse medicinal attributes underscore the potential value of Cleome rutidosperma in traditional and pharmacological applications.

Compounds

Conditions

Cleome rutidosperma exhibits antiplasmodial activity against the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain. In laboratory testing of ethanolic extracts, the whole plant demonstrated an inhibitory effect on this specific malaria parasite. While it possesses medicinal properties, its potency is categorized as a weak antiplasmodial. Specifically, the extract yielded an IC50 value of 54.25 μg/mL during the in vitro evaluation. This plant is among the many species used by the Tetun ethnic people in West Timor for treating malaria.

Preparations

Cleome rutidosperma is prepared as aqueous and 70% ethanolic extracts of the leaves for phytochemical and medicinal property analysis. These specific leaf preparations are used to evaluate the plant's antioxidant status and cytotoxic effects. Additionally, the whole plant of Cleome rutidosperma is prepared as ethanolic extracts to test for antiplasmodial activity. Research indicates that these ethanolic extracts demonstrate weak antiplasmodial potency against the Plasmodium falciparum strain. Consequently, different preparation methods of Cleome rutidosperma are utilized to investigate its diverse therapeutic potential.

Parts used

Cleome rutidosperma is one of several wild weeds investigated for its diverse phytochemical composition and medicinal potential. In this research, the leaves of the plant were specifically utilized to create both aqueous and ethanolic extracts for detailed analysis. These leaf extracts were evaluated to determine their antioxidant status and various in vitro medicinal properties. Through high-performance liquid chromatography, researchers were able to identify the predominant phenolic constituents present within the plant matter. Ultimately, the study compared the cytotoxicity of these leaf extracts to understand their biological impact on cell viability.