Convolvulus althaeoides
Convolvulus althaeoides · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Convolvulus althaeoides is a distinctive flowering plant known for its striking blooms and medicinal potential. Recent scientific investigations have focused on the bioactive properties found within its flower. Specifically, researchers have analyzed the essential oil extracted from these floral parts to evaluate its biological activity. The study aims to determine the efficacy of this oil against various pathogenic microorganisms. Key targets of this investigation include Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Convolvulaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Flower
Classification
Common Names
Convolvulus althaeoides is a unique botanical species recognized by a diverse array of regional names across different languages. In Spanish-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as Corregüela grande, Corriola-rosada, or Corruguela rosada. English speakers often identify this plant as Mallow bindweed, a name that reflects its distinct characteristics. Within Germany, the species is known by its local designation, Eibischblättrige Winde. This variety of nomenclature highlights the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance in various parts of the world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Convolvulus althaeoides is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. This species belongs to the class Equisetopsida and is categorized within the order Solanales. It is a formal part of the Convolvulaceae family, showcasing unique botanical characteristics. Furthermore, it is classified under the genus Convolvulus. Understanding these taxonomic relationships helps scientists place the plant accurately within the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Convolvulus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Convolvulus althaeoides exhibits a broad geographic range that spans several distinct regions across the African continent. Its distribution includes the island territories of Macaronesia, specifically reaching the Canary Islands and Madeira. Within mainland Africa, the species is found in Northern regions such as Algeria. It also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, with documented presence in countries like Chad and Eritrea. This widespread presence highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse environmental settings across the region.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Convolvulus althaeoides is a specialized herb characterized by its obligatory climbing habit. This growth strategy allows the plant to scale surrounding structures to reach sunlight. In terms of stature, it typically maintains a height ranging from a minimum of 0.3 m to a maximum of 1 m. Such physical dimensions make it a versatile addition to diverse ecological landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Convolvulus althaeoides produces a complex essential oil within its flowers that serves as a rich source of various chemical compounds. Detailed analysis through GC and GC-MS has identified several key constituents that define its chemical profile. Notably, the plant contains a significant amount of germacrene D, which serves as one of its primary components. Additionally, the essential oil is characterized by the presence of T-cadinol and verbenone. These specific relationships highlight the diverse chemical makeup that contributes to the plant's overall biological properties.
Conditions
Convolvulus althaeoides essential oil was investigated for its potential to treat several bacterial strains, including Acinetobacter sp. and Enterococcus faecalis. The study also evaluated its antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, the plant's effects were tested against Staphylococcus aureus to determine its medicinal properties. Despite these targeted tests, the research concluded that the oil did not exhibit significant antibacterial activity against these specific bacteria.
Preparations
Convolvulus althaeoides is prepared as an essential oil extracted specifically from its flowers. This oil consists of a complex chemical profile, with 24 identified compounds making up 95.5% of its total composition. The mixture is primarily characterized by a high proportion of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, oxygenated sesquiterpenes, and oxygenated monoterpenes. While the oil did not show significant antibacterial activity against the tested strains, it demonstrated notable biological properties. Specifically, the essential oil exerted significant cytotoxic activity against the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7.
Parts used
Convolvulus althaeoides serves as a significant subject of study regarding the bioactive potential of its floral components. Researchers have specifically focused on extracting essential oils from the flowers of this plant to analyze their chemical properties. Through advanced GC-MS techniques, scientists identified twenty-four distinct compounds that constitute the majority of the oil. While the study found that the floral extract lacked significant antibacterial properties, it revealed potent biological activity in other areas. Most notably, the essential oil derived from the flowers demonstrated significant cytotoxic effects against human breast cancer cells.