Cynanchum
Cynanchum, commonly known as milkweed or swallow-wort, belongs to the Apocynaceae family. These climbing vines are celebrated in traditional medicine for their diverse bioactive compounds. Renowned for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, various species offer significant therapeutic potential in treating diverse ailments and supporting overall holistic wellness.
- Scientific name: Cynanchum
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Gentianales, it is classified under the family Apocynaceae. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Cynanchum.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Gentianales | WCVP |
| Family | Apocynaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Cynanchum | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a specific distribution pattern across several regions of Southern and Southeastern Europe. In Southwestern Europe, it can be found inhabiting various landscapes within France and Portugal. Its presence is also well-documented throughout Spain and the Baleares islands. Moving toward the Balkan Peninsula, the species extends its range into Southeastern Europe. Specifically, it has been identified growing within the borders of Albania.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Southwestern Europe | Baleares | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | France | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Portugal | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Spain | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Albania | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Bulgaria | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Greece | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Italy | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Kriti | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Romania | WCVP |
Chemicals
Cynanchum has 4 reported phytochemicals identified across 4 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include cyclic peptides, phenols, steroids, triterpenoids.
- Total chemicals
- 4
- Scientific sources
- 4
Most Reported Compounds
| Compound | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| cyclic peptides | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| phenols | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| steroids | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| triterpenoids | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |