Cynanchum otophyllum
What's the taxonomical classification of Cynanchum otophyllum?
Cynanchum otophyllum belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida, it is further categorized into the subclass Magnoliidae and falls under the order Gentianaales. As a member of the family Apocynaceae, it is situated within the genus Cynanchum, with its specific designation being the species otophyllum.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Cynanchum |
| Species | otophyllum |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Cynanchum otophyllum has climbing stems with opposite, ovate to elliptical leaves that feature smooth margins and acute tips. The foliage typically presents a glossy texture and a vibrant green color on the upper surface. Small, tubular flowers emerge from the leaf axils in clusters, displaying a pale coloration. The reproductive structures consist of specialized follicles that contain numerous tiny, wind-dispersed seeds. These botanical characteristics define its growth habit as a herbaceous vine within the Apocynaceae family.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of East Asia, primarily concentrated within the territories of China, Taiwan, and Japan. It thrives in various environments ranging from forest edges to rocky hillsides throughout these specific latitudes. The species is most frequently documented in the southern provinces of China where the climate remains warm and humid. In Japan, its presence is often noted in coastal and mountainous areas that provide suitable growing conditions. This limited range suggests that the plant is highly dependent on the specific ecological niches found within these Asian regions.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-draining sandy or loamy soil and consistent moderate temperatures to thrive in a controlled environment.
Growers should provide bright, indirect sunlight to support healthy vine development without scorching the delicate leaves. Regular watering is essential to maintain moisture, though the soil must be allowed to dry slightly between applications to prevent root rot. Because it is a climbing species, providing a trellis or support structure is necessary for its natural growth pattern.
Monitoring humidity levels helps mimic its natural habitat and encourages vigorous vegetative expansion.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Cynanchum otophyllum is utilized medicinally through its rhizome and roots. These underground structures contain bioactive compounds that are extracted for various therapeutic purposes. Practitioners often process the dried roots to create traditional remedies for treating specific ailments. The rhizome is particularly valued for its concentrated chemical properties during preparation. These specific parts serve as the primary source for the plant's medicinal value.
According to a study published by "Steroids", two new C21-steroidal glycosides were isolated from the rhizome of Cynanchum otophyllum Schneid. These specific compounds feature hepta-saccharide residues. One structure is identified as caudatin 3-O-alpha-L-cymaropyranosyl-(1-->4)-alpha-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1-->4)-alpha-l-cymaropyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-d-glucopyranosyl-(1-->4)-alpha-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-diginopyranoside (1). The second structure is identified as caudatin 3-O-beta-D-cymaropyranosyl-(1-->4)-alpha-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1-->4)-alpha-L-cymaropyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-cymaropyranosyl-(1-->4)-beta-D-diginopyranoside (2). These C21 steroidal glycosides consist of seven sugar residues.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- rhizome
- roots
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Cynanchum otophyllum, has been utilized for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat various internal ailments and skin conditions. Practitioners historically prescribed its roots to clear heat and resolve toxicity within the body. It was frequently used in herbal formulas aimed at reducing swelling and addressing inflammation. Some historical records also suggest its application in managing specific types of fevers and dampness. These long-standing medicinal practices continue to inform contemporary research into the plant's chemical properties.
According to a study published by "Natural products and bioprospecting", Cynanchum otophyllum is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating epilepsy. The essential active component isolated from C. otophyllum is otophylloside B (Ot B). This study evaluated Ot B for AD prevention in C. elegans models of AD. The research found that Ot B extended lifespan, increased heat stress-resistance, delayed body paralysis, and increased the chemotaxis response. These results indicated that Ot B protects against Aβ toxicity.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Cynanchum otophyllum?
This plant has diverse pharmacological activities including anti-epileptic, anti-hepatic fibrosis, anti-social defeat stress, and antidepressant effects. Its antiepilepsy properties suggest a significant potential for managing neurological disorders related to seizure activity. Research also indicates that the plant can mitigate liver damage by exerting anti-hepatic fibrosis activity. Furthermore, it demonstrates psychological benefits by providing anti-social defeat stress and antidepressant capabilities. These combined medicinal attributes highlight its multifaceted therapeutic potential in both neurological and metabolic health.
According to a study published by "Natural products and bioprospecting", Cynanchum otophyllum is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating epilepsy. The essential active component isolated from the plant is otophylloside B (Ot B). In C. elegans models, Ot B extended lifespan, increased heat stress-resistance, delayed body paralysis, and increased the chemotaxis response. These findings indicate that Ot B protects against Aβ toxicity by decreasing Aβ deposition at the mRNA level. Mechanistically, Ot B increases the activity of heat shock transcription factor (HSF) by upregulating the expression of hsf-1 and its target genes, hsp-12.6, hsp-16.2 and hsp-70. Additionally, Ot B increased the expression of sod-3 by partially activating DAF-16, though SKN-1 was not essential for this protection.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-epileptic
- anti-hepatic fibrosis activity
- anti-social defeat stress
- antidepressant
- antiepilepsy
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains several distinct medicinal compounds including cynanchin A-G, cynanotin A, cynanotin B, cynanotophyllosides A-D, and otophylloside A. These bioactive molecules belong to specialized classes of chemical constituents found within the species. Researchers have identified these specific glycosides and alkaloids for their potential pharmacological properties. The presence of these diverse secondary metabolites characterizes the chemical profile of the plant. Detailed studies of these individual components help scientists understand the plant's overall therapeutic value.
According to a study published by "Fitoterapia", seven undescribed C21 steroids, known as cynanchin A-G, were isolated from the roots of Cynanchum otophyllum. These were found together with thirteen known analogues. The structures of these compounds were elucidated using 1D, 2D NMR and MS spectra along with chemical methods. All isolates were tested for anti-hepatic fibrosis activity. Specifically, compounds 4-6, 10-12, and 14-17 showed moderate or significant inhibitory effects on the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in vitro.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- cynanchin A-G
- cynanotin A-H
- cynanotophyllosides A-D
- cynotosides A-E
- otophylloside A-B
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating Alzheimer's disease and inhibiting the growth of HCT-116, HeLa, HepG2, and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. Research indicates that its bioactive compounds possess significant neuroprotective properties that may help combat cognitive decline. In oncological studies, extracts from the plant have demonstrated potent cytotoxic effects against various malignant cells. Specifically, it shows promise in targeting colorectal, cervical, liver, and breast cancer types in laboratory settings. These therapeutic applications highlight the medicinal potential of the species in addressing both neurological and neoplastic diseases.
According to a study published by "Natural products and bioprospecting", Cynanchum otophyllum is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating epilepsy. The essential active component isolated from the plant is otophylloside B. In C. elegans models of Alzheimer's disease, this component was evaluated for AD prevention. The study found that it extended lifespan, increased heat stress-resistance, delayed body paralysis, and increased the chemotaxis response. These results indicated that the component protects against Aβ toxicity.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- Alzheimer's disease
- depression
- epilepsy
- neuropsychiatric diseases
- HCT-116 cancer
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Cynanchum otophyllum, which is processed into various medicinal herbal preparations to harness its bioactive compounds for therapeutic use. Researchers frequently utilize an ethyl acetate extract to isolate specific secondary metabolites that demonstrate significant biological activities. These preparations are often studied for their potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties in experimental models. Different extraction methods are employed to ensure the concentration of active ingredients remains optimal for pharmacological testing. Such specialized extracts serve as the foundation for developing more complex herbal formulations in traditional and modern medicine.
According to a study published by "Carbohydrate research", four new carbohydrates were isolated from the acidic hydrolysis part of the ethyl acetate extract of Cynanchum otophyllum Schneid (Asclepiadaceae). The structures of these substances were determined using spectral methods. The first identified structure is methyl 2,6-dideoxy-3-O-methyl-beta-D-arabino-hexopyranosyl-(1-->4)-6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-beta-D-ribo-hexopyranosyl-(1-->4)-6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-alpha-L-ribo-hexopyranoside (1). The second is methyl 6-deoxy-1,3-di-O-methyl-beta-D-ribo-hexosyl-(1-->4)-2,6-dideoxy-3-O-methyl-alpha-D-arabino-hexopyranoside (2). The third structure is methyl 2,6-dideoxy-3-O-methyl-beta-D-arabino-hexopyranosyl-(1-->4)-6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-alpha-L-ribo-hexopyranoside (3), and the fourth is 2,6-dideoxy-3-O-methyl-beta-D-arabino-hexopyranosyl-(1-->4)-2,6-dideoxy-3-O-methyl-alpha-D-arabino-hexopyranosyl-(1-->4)-2,6-dideoxy-3-O-methyl-beta-D-lyxo-hexopyranose (4).
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- ethyl acetate extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause serious neurological complications such as epilepsy in certain individuals. Consumption of Cynanchum otophyllum may lead to significant disruptions in brain activity and seizure disorders. These adverse reactions are often linked to the presence of specific toxic alkaloids contained within the plant's tissues. Medical research suggests that the chemical composition can trigger involuntary muscle contractions and loss of consciousness. Users should exercise extreme caution as the potential for these severe health side effects is well documented.
According to a study published by "Natural products and bioprospecting", Cynanchum otophyllum is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating epilepsy. The essential active component isolated from C. otophyllum is otophylloside B (Ot B). In C. elegans models of Alzheimer's disease, Ot B was found to extend lifespan, increase heat stress-resistance, delay body paralysis, and increase the chemotaxis response. Ot B protects against Aβ toxicity by decreasing Aβ deposition through decreased expression of Aβ at the mRNA level. This process involves increasing the activity of heat shock transcription factor (HSF) by upregulating hsf-1 and target genes hsp-12.6, hsp-16.2, and hsp-70. Additionally, Ot B increases the expression of sod-3 by partially activating DAF-16.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- epilepsy
What herbs are paired with Cynanchum otophyllum?
This plant is traditionally paired with herbs such as Radix Astragali, Radix Glycyrrhizae, and Radix Paeoniae to enhance its therapeutic efficacy in traditional formulas.
These combinations are specifically designed to balance its cooling properties and support its function in promoting blood circulation. When used alongside Radix Astragali, the formula aims to bolster vital energy while addressing stagnation. Incorporating Radix Glycyrrhizae helps to harmonize the various herbal components and reduce potential toxicity.
These strategic pairings are essential for tailoring the medicinal effects to specific clinical needs.