Convolvulus arvensis
Convolvulus arvensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (8 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Convolvulus arvensis is a plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Research focusing on its leaf components has revealed powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. These biological effects are driven by key chemical constituents such as Himachalene, Longifolene, Rutin, and Thymol. Various preparations, including essential oils (EOs), hydroalcoholic extracts, and EOCA, are utilized to study its impact on conditions like angiogenesis, E. coli, and nosocomial infections. Ultimately, these studies highlight the plant's ability to combat oxidative stress and various microbial threats.
- Synonyms
- Convolvulus Auriculatus · Convolvulus Arvensis Var. Linearifolius · 47 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Convolvulaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Convolvulus arvensis is a plant known by a diverse array of common names across different linguistic and regional contexts. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently identified as Field Bindweed. The species also carries various German designations, such as Acker-Winde, Ackerwinde, and the dialectal Ager-snerle. In Spanish-speaking regions, the plant is commonly referred to as Correguela blanca. Finally, it is recognized by the name ullayq in certain specific naming conventions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Convolvulus arvensis is a complex species that encompasses several taxonomic synonyms and distinct forms. Within its botanical classification, it is recognized by the synonym Convolvulus ambigens. The plant also includes various specialized forms, such as the f. alvarensis and the f. auriculatus. Furthermore, morphological variations are documented through the f. cordifolius and f. decarrhabdotus varieties. Understanding these relationships is essential for accurately identifying the diverse expressions of this widespread species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Convolvulus arvensis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, serving as a prime example of diverse botanical life. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Solanales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. It specifically resides within the genus Convolvulus, a group known for its distinct climbing characteristics. Finally, this species is a member of the Convolvulaceae family, highlighting its specific biological connections.
| 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 arvensis exhibits a broad geographic range that spans several distinct regions across the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, the species is notably present within the landscapes of Kenya. Its distribution also extends into the Macaronesian islands, where it can be found throughout the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands. Furthermore, the plant maintains a presence in Northeast Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Chad. This diverse spread highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various environments across these different territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Convolvulus arvensis is characterized by its distinct growth form as a herbaceous plant. This species exhibits an obligatory climbing habit, meaning it relies on other structures for support as it grows. Although it is considered a self-supporting herb, its climbing nature allows it to navigate its environment effectively. The plant typically reaches a modest height, with individual specimens measuring between 0.2 m and 1.2 m. This compact stature makes it a resilient feature of its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Convolvulus arvensis is a medicinal plant recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional phytotherapy. Research indicates that its essential oils possess potent antioxidant properties, effectively scavenging free radicals as demonstrated by DPPH and FRAP assays. Furthermore, the plant exhibits strong antibacterial activity against various pathogenic strains, including S. aureus and K. pneumoniae. Its antimicrobial profile is further expanded by notable antifungal effects against species such as C. albicans and A. niger. These diverse biological activities suggest that Convolvulus arvensis could serve as a valuable natural resource for developing new drugs to combat infections and oxidative stress.
Compounds
Convolvulus arvensis is a medicinal plant of the Convolvulaceae family that possesses a diverse array of bioactive chemical constituents. Analysis of its essential oils reveals that the plant contains himachalene, longifolene, and thymol, which contribute to its potent antimicrobial properties. Beyond these volatile compounds, the plant is also associated with significant phytochemicals such as rutin and kaempferol. These specific components support the plant's overall antioxidant and therapeutic potential in various biological applications. Together, these chemical profiles suggest that the species holds great promise for the development of new drugs to manage infections and oxidative stress.
Conditions
Convolvulus arvensis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its diverse biological activities. The essential oils derived from this plant effectively treat fungal pathogens including A. flavus and A. niger. Research further indicates that its extracts and biosynthesized nanoparticles possess strong antibacterial properties against various clinical strains. Additionally, the plant exhibits notable antioxidant activity, which helps manage diseases related to free radicals. Finally, Convolvulus arvensis provides anti-inflammatory effects, as evidenced by its ability to inhibit protein denaturation.
Preparations
Convolvulus arvensis is prepared as EOCA, which refers to its essential oils used to study antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. These essential oils, also identified as EOs, are recovered from the plant's leaves and are rich in compounds like cuprenne and thymol. In addition to these preparations, the plant is processed as a methanol extract for pharmacological testing. This methanol extract has been shown to induce a dose-dependent relaxation of rabbit duodenal smooth muscle. While the provided abstracts do not explicitly link Convolvulus arvensis to hydroalcoholic extracts, they do highlight the diverse ways this medicinal plant is chemically processed for research.
Parts used
Convolvulus arvensis is a medicinal plant belonging to the Convolvulaceae family that holds significant potential in traditional phytotherapy. Research focusing on the essential oils extracted from the leaves of this species reveals a rich chemical composition, including compounds like cuprenne and thymol. These leaf-derived oils demonstrate impressive antioxidant properties, effectively combating free radicals through various assays. Furthermore, the essential oils exhibit powerful antibacterial and antifungal activities against several clinically important pathogens. Ultimately, these findings suggest that Convolvulus arvensis leaves could serve as a valuable foundation for developing new drugs to manage infections and oxidative stress.