Crotalaria calycina
Crotalaria calycina · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Crotalaria calycina is a distinctive botanical species often recognized for its unique floral structure and resilient growth habits. Within traditional medicinal practices, this plant has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic properties. It is frequently studied for its ability to address various physiological challenges, particularly those involving systemic inflammation. Furthermore, many practitioners utilize its extracts to help manage and alleviate persistent pain. Understanding its chemical composition is essential for unlocking its full potential in modern herbal applications.
- Synonyms
- Crotalaria Crenata · Crotalaria Nipaulensis · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Crotalaria calycina is a distinctive plant known by several unique names across different languages and cultures. In English-speaking regions, it is commonly referred to as the Hairy Rattlepod. Its identity is also recognized in Vietnam under the name lục lạc đài dài. Moving to Japan, the species is identified through various local terms such as ガクタヌキマメ, 自消容, and 長萼野百合. Understanding these diverse common names helps botanists and enthusiasts locate the species globally.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Crotalaria calycina is a botanical species that has been documented under several different names in various scientific records. Throughout taxonomic history, it has been closely associated with the synonym Crotalaria crenata. Researchers have also identified it under the name Crotalaria nipaulensis in certain contexts. Furthermore, the plant is linked to the synonyms Crotalaria roxburghiana and Crotalaria roxburghii. Understanding these multiple designations is essential for accurate plant identification and classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Crotalaria calycina is a distinct biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant's taxonomic journey continues through the order Fabales, which connects it to a diverse group of flowering plants. It is further categorized into the family Fabaceae, a group well-known for its unique legume characteristics. Finally, it finds its specific botanical home within the genus Crotalaria.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Crotalaria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Crotalaria calycina is a resilient plant species with a broad distribution spanning various regions across the African continent. It can be found throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically within the territories of Tanzania and Uganda. The plant also extends its reach into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it thrives in the landscapes of Chad and Ethiopia. Furthermore, its presence is noted in the expansive regions of Sudan and South Sudan. This wide geographic range highlights the adaptability of the species across diverse African environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Crotalaria calycina is a self-supporting herb characterized by its sturdy and upright growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1 meter as it matures. However, individual specimens may also remain quite compact, with a minimum height of only 0.3 meters. These varying dimensions allow the species to adapt effectively to its specific environmental conditions.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Crotalaria calycina demonstrates significant medicinal potential by effectively treating pain through various tested methods. The methanol extract of the plant's stem successfully treats the hot plate assay, producing a high percent of maximal effect. Additionally, the plant treats licking behaviors in mice models by showing a high percentage of inhibition during testing. Its anti-inflammatory properties are evidenced by its ability to treat inflammation through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2. Finally, the extract effectively treats paw edema by demonstrating substantial inhibition in carrageenan-induced models.