Clerodendrum villosum
Clerodendrum villosum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Clerodendrum villosum is a significant botanical species recognized for its diverse range of therapeutic properties. Scientific investigations have highlighted its potent biological activities, particularly its anticancer and antipyretic effects. The medicinal potency of this plant is largely attributed to key chemical constituents such as lupeol, oleanolic acid 3-acetate, pectolinarigenin, and stigmasterol. Research indicates that the root of the plant serves as a primary source for these bioactive compounds. Consequently, this species holds great promise for further pharmacological development and traditional medicine applications.
- Synonyms
- Clerodendrum Villosum Var. Macrocalyx · Clerodendrum Confusum · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Clerodendrum villosum is a distinctive plant known by a variety of names across different linguistic traditions. In certain regions, it is commonly referred to by the name chapaneng. It also holds the Thai common name นางแย้มป่า, reflecting its local cultural significance. Furthermore, the species is recognized in Chinese contexts as 絹毛大青. These diverse naming conventions highlight the widespread presence and botanical diversity associated with this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Clerodendrum villosum is a complex species that has been identified by several different botanical names throughout history. Taxonomists have previously classified this plant under various synonyms, including Clerodendrum confusum and Clerodendrum curranii. It is also recognized in older literature as Clerodendrum ferrugineum. Furthermore, certain variations of the plant are categorized as Clerodendrum villosum var. macrocalyx. Understanding these shifting scientific labels is essential for accurately identifying the species in different botanical contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Clerodendrum villosum belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, marking its place among the world's diverse vegetation. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Lamiales, which helps define its specific biological characteristics. As a member of the genus Clerodendrum, it shares unique structural traits with its close relatives. Finally, this plant is officially categorized within the family Lamiaceae, connecting it to a wide array of aromatic and structurally distinct species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Clerodendrum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Clerodendrum villosum is a widely distributed species that thrives across several distinct geographical regions. In Africa, its presence is noted within the East Tropical regions, specifically throughout Tanzania. The plant also extends into Asia, spanning from the temperate landscapes of South-Central China to the tropical environments of the Indian Subcontinent. Within these tropical zones, it is commonly found in both Assam and Bangladesh. Additionally, its reach continues through Indo-China, where it is established in countries such as Cambodia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Clerodendrum villosum is a self-supporting shrub that maintains a sturdy, upright posture. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 2 meters as it matures. Its compact growth form makes it a versatile addition to various garden landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Clerodendrum villosum is a notable medicinal plant traditionally utilized in herbal formulas for its antipyretic properties. Recent scientific research has investigated its roots to explore potential therapeutic benefits beyond fever reduction. Studies have successfully identified various cytotoxic compounds within the plant, including several triterpenoids. These findings demonstrate that the plant possesses significant anticancer activity against multiple human cancer cell lines. Consequently, these results provide a strong foundation for further in-depth studies into its potential as a powerful anticancer agent.
Compounds
Clerodendrum villosum is a medicinal plant whose roots contain several bioactive compounds with significant pharmacological potential. Research has identified that this species contains various triterpenoids, including lupeol and taraxerol. Additionally, the plant contains oleanolic acid 3-acetate, which has demonstrated moderate to strong cytotoxicity against several cancer cell lines. Other notable constituents found within the plant include the flavonoid pectolinarigenin and the steroid stigmasterol. These findings suggest that the chemical profile of Clerodendrum villosum warrants further investigation for its potential use as an anticancer agent.
Conditions
Clerodendrum villosum roots demonstrate significant cytotoxic activity against the SW620 cell line. Research involving dichloromethane extracts of this plant confirmed its effectiveness in treating these specific cancer cells. Several triterpenoids isolated from the plant, such as taraxerol, showed high specificity and potency toward the SW620 line. Additionally, compounds like lupeol and various steroids found within the plant were also identified as active against this cell line. These findings suggest that the chemical constituents of Clerodendrum villosum possess meaningful anticancer potential against SW620 cells.
Preparations
Parts used
Clerodendrum villosum is a medicinal plant whose roots play a significant role in traditional Thai medicine. Recent research has focused on the phytochemical properties of these root extracts to determine their potential therapeutic applications. Specifically, studies have identified various triterpenoids within the roots that exhibit notable cytotoxic activity against several human cancer cell lines. Compounds such as lupeol and betulinic acid were found to demonstrate varying degrees of effectiveness in inhibiting cancer cell growth. These findings suggest that the roots of Clerodendrum villosum hold great promise for further development as potential anticancer agents.