Coldenia procumbens

Coldenia procumbens · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Coldenia procumbens is a creeping herbaceous plant known for its distinctive spreading growth habit. Recent scientific investigations have focused on exploring the diverse therapeutic potential of this species. Researchers have specifically concentrated on analyzing its antioxidant activities to understand its protective biological effects. To facilitate these studies, the plant is often processed into a concentrated ethanol extract. This specific preparation allows for a more thorough evaluation of its bioactive compounds and health benefits.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Lobophyllum Tetrandrum · Coldenia Angolensis
Common names
Not available
Family
Boraginaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Coldenia procumbens is a versatile plant known by various regional names across the globe. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently referred to by the common name coldenia. The species also carries the specific designation koldénia položená in certain contexts, reflecting its botanical characteristics. In Thailand, locals identify this creeping herb as หญ้าตีนตุ๊กแก, while Chinese nomenclature includes terms like 刺锚草属 and 臥莖同籬生果草. These diverse names highlight the wide cultural and linguistic reach of this unique plant.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Coldenia procumbens is a botanical species that is often identified through various scientific classifications. Within taxonomic literature, this plant is recognized by the synonym Coldenia angolensis. It is also frequently referred to by the alternative name Lobophyllum tetrandrum in different studies. These overlapping designations highlight the complex nature of plant nomenclature and historical naming conventions. Understanding these synonyms is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify the species in diverse ecological contexts.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Coldenia procumbens is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. This plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Boraginales. Within this biological hierarchy, it is further categorized into the family Boraginaceae. It is also specifically identified by its unique genus, Coldenia. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the botanical identity of this species.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Boraginales
Family Boraginaceae
Genus Coldenia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Coldenia procumbens is a plant species with a notable presence across various regions of the African continent. Its distribution spans much of East Tropical Africa, including specific populations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The species also reaches into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it can be found in Chad. Beyond the mainland, its range extends to the Macaronesia islands, specifically within Cape Verde. This wide geographic spread highlights the plant's adaptability to diverse African environments.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Coldenia procumbens is a delicate herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This plant typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of 0.5 meters. While its growth can theoretically begin from a minimum height of 0 meters, it most commonly establishes itself at a height of at least 0.2375 meters. This compact structure makes it an easy addition to various garden landscapes. Understanding these specific dimensions helps gardeners integrate the species effectively into their plant collections.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Coldenia procumbens was identified as one of the medicinal plants evaluated for its potential to combat drug-resistant dermatophytic pathogens. During the study, the ethanol extract of this plant demonstrated a significant ability to interfere with ergosterol biosynthesis. Beyond its antifungal properties, the extract also exhibited notable antioxidant activity when screened using the DPPH assay. These dual characteristics highlight the plant's diverse biochemical profile in addressing microbial threats. Such findings suggest that this species could serve as a valuable resource in the future development of new antidermatophytic agents.

Compounds

Conditions

Coldenia procumbens is identified as one of the medicinal plants capable of interfering with the growth of dermatophytic pathogens. Specifically, the ethanol extract of this plant significantly reduces the release of ergosterol. In the studied research, this extract was shown to lower ergosterol levels by 19.53%. This mechanism of action highlights its potential effectiveness in inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis. Such activity positions the plant as a candidate for developing new antifungal treatments.

Preparations

Coldenia procumbens is prepared as an ethanol extract to investigate its potential medicinal properties. In this specific study, the plant was processed into an ethanol extract to evaluate its efficacy against dermatophytic pathogens. This extraction method allows for the testing of the plant's ability to interfere with ergosterol biosynthesis. The resulting ethanol extract of Coldenia procumbens significantly lowered the release of ergosterol by 19.53%. Such preparation is a key component in assessing the plant's antidermatophytic potential.

Parts used