Curcuma singularis
Curcuma singularis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Curcuma singularis is a distinctive botanical species primarily valued for its medicinal properties. The most significant part of this plant is the underground rhizome, which contains a concentrated array of bioactive compounds. Within this structure, researchers have identified key chemical constituents such as Curcumol and Germacrone. Additionally, the presence of ar-Turmerone contributes to the complex chemical profile that defines the plant's biological activity. Understanding these specific components is essential for exploring the therapeutic potential of this species.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Zingiberaceae
- Distribution
- Europe
- Plant Parts
- Rhizome
Classification
Common Names
Curcuma singularis is a unique botanical species known by a variety of regional names across different cultures. In certain areas, it is affectionately referred to by the common name sâm đá. Moving into Thai contexts, the plant is frequently identified as ดอกดิน. Its identity is also recognized in Chinese-speaking regions under the name 辛格拉薑黃. These diverse linguistic connections highlight the widespread presence and cultural significance of this plant globally.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Curcuma singularis is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. This botanical specimen belongs to the class Equisetopsida and falls under the order Zingiberales. Within its specific lineage, it is categorized under the genus Curcuma. Ultimately, the plant is a proud representative of the Zingiberaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Zingiberaceae |
| Genus | Curcuma |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Curcuma singularis is a plant species widely distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Its presence is particularly noted across the diverse landscapes of Indo-China. Specifically, this species can be found thriving in the natural habitats of Cambodia and Laos. It also maintains a significant distribution within the territories of Myanmar and Thailand. Furthermore, the plant is commonly documented growing throughout the various environments of Vietnam.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Curcuma singularis is a self-supporting plant that maintains its own structural integrity without the need for external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Curcuma singularis is a Vietnamese medicinal plant that has long been utilized in traditional folk medicine to treat various ailments. Recent investigations into its ethanol extract have revealed a complex chemical composition rich in bioactive sesquiterpene compounds. Specifically, the rhizome extract of this plant contains significant amounts of germacrone and ar-turmerone. Furthermore, the analysis identified curcumol as one of the primary components within the extract. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the plant's notable anti-proliferative activity against certain cancer cells.
Conditions
Curcuma singularis demonstrates significant anti-cancer potential through its ability to treat various breast and liver cancer cells. Research indicates that the rhizome extract exerts cytotoxic effects specifically against these types of malignant cells. Within these categories, the extract has been shown to effectively treat Hep3B liver cancer cells. Similarly, it successfully treats SKBR3 breast cancer cells by inducing apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. These findings highlight the plant's targeted efficacy against both specific cell lines and broader cancer classifications.
Preparations
Parts used
Curcuma singularis is a prominent Vietnamese medicinal plant frequently utilized in traditional and folk medicine to treat various ailments. Recent scientific investigations have focused specifically on the bioactive potential of its rhizome. By utilizing ethanol extracts of the rhizome, researchers have identified key sesquiterpene compounds like germacrone and ar-turmerone. These studies demonstrate that the extract exerts significant cytotoxic effects against certain liver and breast cancer cells through apoptosis induction. Ultimately, this research provides the first formal report regarding the anti-proliferative activity of Curcuma singularis rhizomes in an in vitro setting.