Clinopodium chinense
What's the taxonomical classification of Clinopodium chinense?
Clinopodium chinense belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. As a member of the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, it falls under the order Lamiales. Its taxonomic journey continues through the family Lamiaceae, where it is placed in the genus Clinopodium, ultimately reaching its specific designation as the species chinense.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Clinopodium |
| Species | chinense |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Clinopodium chinense has an erect, herbaceous stem that typically reaches heights of 30 to 60 centimeters and features small, opposite, ovate leaves with serrated margins. The foliage is characterized by a soft, slightly pubescent texture and a light green coloration. Its inflorescence consists of small, densely packed, axillary clusters of tubular flowers that transition from white to pale pink or purple. These flowers are arranged in compact cymes located at the nodes of the plant. The root system is relatively shallow, supporting the slender structure of the herb during its growth cycle.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to central and southern China, where it thrives in specific regional habitats. It is primarily documented growing in mountainous areas and along the edges of forests. Within these regions, the species prefers temperate climates that provide necessary moisture and shade. Localized populations are often found in provinces that feature diverse topographical variations. Its distribution remains relatively concentrated within these specific East Asian ecological zones.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, fertile soil and consistent moisture levels to thrive in warm, subtropical climates.
It is best grown in full sun to partial shade to ensure optimal leaf development. Regular watering is essential, especially during the peak growing season, to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Maintaining a moderate temperature helps the herb maintain its aromatic qualities and vigor.
Periodic pruning can encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Clinopodium chinense utilizes its aerial parts and roots for various medicinal applications. The aerial parts, which include the leaves and stems, are often harvested to prepare infusions or decoctions. These upper portions of the plant are frequently used to address respiratory issues and digestive discomfort. Meanwhile, the roots are collected and processed to serve different therapeutic purposes in traditional remedies. Together, these specific components provide a comprehensive range of bioactive compounds used in herbal medicine.
According to a study published by "Archives of pharmacal research", compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Clinopodium chinense (Benth.) O. Kuntze. These included 4 new ursane-type triterpenoid saponins, clinopoursaponins A-D (1-4), and 6 new oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins, clinopodiside VII-XII (5-10). Additionally, 8 known triterpene analogues (11-18) were identified from the plant. The compounds 1-18 were evaluated for protective effects against apoptosis in H9c2 cells and cytotoxicities against the 4T1 cell line. While compounds 8, 9 and 18 showed significant protective effects, compound 1 exhibited cytotoxic activity with an IC50 value of 7.4 μm. This value was compared to 7.6 μm for the positive control 10-hydroxycamptothecin.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- aerial parts
- roots
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Clinopodium chinense is utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat various ailments such as digestive issues, skin conditions, and respiratory distress. Historically, practitioners have applied its aromatic properties to alleviate stomach pain and regulate menstrual cycles. In many regional folk practices, the leaves are brewed into teas to reduce inflammation and promote better digestion. The plant's essential oils are also frequently employed in topical applications for wound healing. These long-standing traditions rely on the plant's perceived ability to balance internal energy and clear heat from the body.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", Clinopodium chinense (Lamiaceae) holds great significance in traditional Chinese medicine. This plant offers unique advantages in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Tournefolic acid B (TAB) was proven to be a potent component from Clinopodium chinense against myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRIs). The total synthesis of TAB was completed in 10 steps with an overall yield of 13%.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Clinopodium chinense?
This plant has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, cardioprotective, and blood glucose-lowering pharmacological activities. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals to prevent cellular damage within the body. The anti-inflammatory effects assist in reducing swelling and pain associated with various systemic conditions. Research also indicates that its antitumor capabilities may inhibit the growth of malignant cells. Additionally, the plant offers cardioprotective benefits and serves as an agent for lowering blood glucose levels in metabolic studies.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Clinopodium chinense Kuntze (CC) is included in the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (edition 2020) as a legitimate source of Duan Xue Liu (DXL). This traditional Chinese medicine is used as a clinical remedy for bleeding diseases. Bioactivity assays demonstrated that CC exhibits obvious hemosatatic activity. Furthermore, CC showed greater potential to resist inflammation and free radicals compared to other species. The study successfully identified 7 compounds contributing to metabolite differences.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-inflammatoriy activity
- antioxidant
- antitumor
- cardioprotective
- lowering blood glucose
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds clinopoditerpenes B, clinopoditerpenes C, clinoposide A, clinoposides G (1), and clinoposides H (2). These specific chemical constituents are classified as bioactive secondary metabolites within the species. Researchers study these terpenoids and glycosides to determine their potential pharmacological properties. The structural diversity of these molecules contributes to the overall therapeutic profile of the plant. Understanding these isolated compounds helps in the development of new medicinal treatments.
According to a study published by "Natural product research", two new abietane diterpenoid glycosides named clinopoditerpenes B (1) and C (2) were isolated from Clinopodium chinense. These two compounds were identified through extensive spectral analysis. Specifically, compound 1 exhibited a cardioprotective effect against H2O2-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cells.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- clinopoditerpenes B
- clinopoditerpenes C
- clinoposide A
- clinoposides G (1)
- clinoposides H (2)
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating abnormal uterine bleeding, bleeding diseases, metrorrhagia, cardiovascular disease, and heart disease. Its medicinal properties are frequently applied to manage irregular menstrual cycles and various forms of heavy uterine hemorrhaging. Practitioners also utilize it to address systemic bleeding disorders that affect different parts of the body. Furthermore, the plant plays a role in supporting patients dealing with cardiovascular disease through its impact on circulatory health. These diverse applications demonstrate its importance in managing both gynecological and cardiac conditions.
According to a study published by "Journal of pharmacological sciences", Clinopodium chinense is used for the treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). The total extract of C. chinense (TEC) was shown to reduce metrorrhagia volume and show great haemostatic potential in AUB. The TEC helps alleviate pathological injury and increases micro vessel density (MVD) to promote the recovery of the endometrium. Specifically, the plant increases levels of TXB2 and the expression of VEGF and TGF-β while decreasing the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α and the expression of MMP-2/9. Eleven compounds were identified within C. chinense through this research.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- abnormal uterine bleeding
- cardiovascular disease
- diabetes
- heart disease
- myocardial infarction
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Clinopodium chinense, which is utilized to create medicinal herbal preparations such as an ethyl acetate extract to isolate bioactive compounds. Researchers focus on this specific extraction method to concentrate the plant's therapeutic constituents for pharmaceutical study. A primary component of interest within these preparations is the total flavonoids, which contribute to the plant's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These chemical profiles are essential for determining the efficacy of the plant in various traditional and modern medicinal applications. Understanding the concentration of these substances helps standardize the quality of the herbal extracts produced.
According to a study published by "The American journal of Chinese medicine", Clinopodium chinense (Benth.) O. Kuntze has been shown to lower blood glucose and attenuate high glucose-induced vascular endothelial cells injury. The ethyl acetate extract of C. chinense (CCE) significantly inhibited PA-induced toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). CCE inhibited the phosphorylation of Ikappa B kinase beta, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-kappa-B), c-Jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular regulated protein kinases, and p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). This process subsequently suppressed the release of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), and IL-6. Furthermore, CCE inhibited IRS-1 serine phosphorylation, restored serine/threonine kinase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activation, and increased insulin-mediated nitric oxide (NO) production in PA-treated HUVECs.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- ethyl acetate extract
- total flavonoids
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause abnormal uterine bleeding as a primary adverse health side effect. Consumption of Clinopodium chinense may interfere with the delicate hormonal balance required for a regular menstrual cycle. This disruption often manifests as unpredictable or heavy bleeding patterns in female users. Individuals should exercise caution and monitor their reproductive health when using this botanical species. Avoiding excessive intake can help mitigate the risk of these gynecological complications.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", Clinopodium chinense is a traditional folk medicinal herb used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding. The total extract of Clinopodium chinense contains main active components such as saponins and flavonoids. After the administration of the total extract, five compounds were detected in the plasma of rats, including hesperidin, naringenin, apigenin, saikosaponin a, and clinoposide A. The Cmax values for these compounds were 701.6, 429.5, 860.7, 75.1, and 304.1 ng·mL-1, respectively. All five compounds showed a short half-life and quick elimination rate in vivo, while a large apparent volume of distribution indicated they were widely distributed in tissues.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- abnormal uterine bleeding
What herbs are paired with Clinopodium chinense?
This plant Clinopodium chinense pairs effectively with aromatic herbs such as ginger, lemongrass, and mint to enhance its spicy and citrusy flavor profile.
When used in culinary applications, the addition of fresh basil can elevate its pungent notes for a more complex herbal bouquet. Combining it with star anise or cinnamon creates a warm, savory depth suitable for traditional medicinal broths and teas. These combinations leverage the plant's natural volatile oils to balance stronger seasonings in various recipes.
Using these specific pairings ensures a harmonious blend of scents and tastes in every dish.