Cotoneaster nummularius
Cotoneaster nummularius · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cotoneaster nummularius is a plant species that has gained significant attention for its diverse pharmacological properties. Recent studies have specifically focused on the biological activities of its manna extract (CNE). This preparation has demonstrated potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects in various experimental models. By mitigating oxidative stress and reducing protein carbonylation, the extract helps protect cells from systemic oxidative damage. Consequently, these therapeutic characteristics suggest a potential role for the plant in managing conditions such as jaundice.
- Synonyms
- Cotoneaster Nummularius Microphyllus · Mespilus Nummularia · 19 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Cotoneaster nummularius is a botanical species known to be associated with several different scientific names in various taxonomic records. It is frequently identified by its synonyms, such as Cotoneaster creticus and Cotoneaster discolor. Furthermore, the plant has been documented under the name Cotoneaster falconeri in certain contexts. Taxonomic classifications also link it to specific varieties, including Cotoneaster fontanesii var. nummularius. Finally, it is recognized as a synonym for Cotoneaster integerrimus var. nummularius, reflecting the complex history of its nomenclature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cotoneaster nummularius belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls specifically under the order Rosales, a group known for its diverse botanical characteristics. Furthermore, it is a distinguished member of the family Rosaceae, which connects it to many well-known flowering plants. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its placement within the genus Cotoneaster.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cotoneaster |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cotoneaster nummularius is a resilient species with a broad geographical footprint spanning across two major continents. In Africa, its presence is noted in the northern reaches of Morocco as well as across Northeast Tropical Africa, including Eritrea. Moving eastward, the plant establishes a significant presence throughout the temperate regions of Asia. It is particularly well-distributed across the Arabian Peninsula, where it can be found in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. This wide range demonstrates the plant's ability to thrive in diverse environments across both African and Asian landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cotoneaster nummularius is a versatile plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. As a self-supporting species, it maintains a sturdy structure without the need for external assistance. This shrub typically reaches a maximum height of 2 meters in ideal conditions. Depending on its environment, it generally maintains a minimum stature ranging from 1 to 1.5 meters. Such predictable dimensions make it a reliable choice for various landscaping designs.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cotoneaster nummularius exhibits significant therapeutic potential due to its potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. Recent research using a neonatal rat model demonstrates that its manna extract can effectively mitigate hyperbilirubinemia induced by phenylhydrazine. By reducing oxidative stress markers like reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, the extract helps restore essential glutathione levels. Furthermore, the plant's ability to inhibit β-glucuronidase activity contributes directly to its protective effects on the liver. These findings suggest that Cotoneaster nummularius could serve as a promising therapeutic agent for managing oxidative damage and liver dysfunction.
Compounds
Conditions
Cotoneaster nummularius is recognized by traditional healers for its ability to treat jaundice. Research into its manna extract demonstrates that the plant effectively treats oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen species. It also treats malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, which serves as a key marker of oxidative damage. These antioxidant properties allow the plant to treat oxidative damage and mitigate its harmful effects on the body. Ultimately, the extract shows significant promise to treat neonatal liver dysfunction through its dose-dependent hepatoprotective actions.
Preparations
Cotoneaster nummularius is prepared as manna extract, commonly referred to as CNE, for use in therapeutic research. This specific extract is utilized to investigate hepatoprotective effects against phenylhydrazine-induced hyperbilirubinemia in neonatal rat models. During experimental administration, CNE is provided in varying oral doses to evaluate its impact on oxidative stress and liver function. The preparation demonstrates a significant ability to reduce serum bilirubin levels and mitigate damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Ultimately, the CNE manna extract serves as a potent antioxidant agent that helps restore glutathione levels and inhibit β-glucuronidase activity.