Dioscorea septemloba
Dioscorea septemloba · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dioscorea septemloba is a botanical species known for the medicinal properties found within its specialized rhizome. Practitioners often utilize the rhizoma preparation to address various physiological concerns in traditional herbal medicine. This plant is specifically recognized for its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatism. Additionally, it is utilized to support healthy bone turnover and promote effective diuresis. Through these diverse applications, the rhizomes of this plant serve as a significant resource in herbal therapeutic practices.
- Synonyms
- Dioscorea Septemloba Var. Platyphylla · Dioscorea Septemloba Var. Sititoana · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Dioscoreaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Rhizome
Classification
Synonyms
Dioscorea septemloba is a plant species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several recognized synonyms. Within its botanical classification, the variety platyphylla is formally identified as Dioscorea septemloba var. platyphylla. Furthermore, the plant is closely linked to the variety sititoana, known scientifically as Dioscorea septemloba var. sititoana. This specific variety is also frequently referred to by the distinct synonym Dioscorea sititoana. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification and study of the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dioscorea septemloba is a unique specimen that belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the specific order Dioscoreales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the Dioscoreaceae family, showcasing its specialized botanical characteristics. Ultimately, its scientific identity is rooted deeply within the genus Dioscorea.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dioscorea septemloba is a plant species primarily found throughout the Asia-temperate regions. Its natural range extends significantly across China, including the specific areas of Southeast China. Furthermore, this species is well-established in Eastern Asia, where it flourishes in the landscapes of Japan. The distribution also encompasses the Korean Peninsula, marking its presence in Korea. Together, these locations highlight the diverse geographic footprint of this unique plant across East Asia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dioscorea septemloba is characterized by its distinct growth form as a herbaceous plant. This species possesses an obligatory climbing habit, relying on other structures to ascend toward the light.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Dioscorea septemloba is utilized in traditional medicine to treat rheumatism and joint pain. Research indicates that the decoction of its rhizomes can treat biomechanical and bone histomorphometric parameters of the femur in ovariectomized rats. The plant also serves to treat bone absorption by inhibiting the processes that lead to bone loss. Furthermore, Dioscorea septemloba effectively treats bone metabolism in ovariectomized rats by improving bone mineral density. Finally, the administration of this plant helps to treat bone turnover by declining the excessive turnover seen in osteoporotic models.
Preparations
Dioscorea septemloba is prepared as rhizoma or rhizomes for various medicinal purposes. These rhizomes serve as a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat rheumatism, joint pain, and urethral or renal infections. The plant's rhizomes are a significant source of phytochemical components, including dioscin. Scientific analysis of these preparations helps identify active substances like tigogenin that contribute to antihyperuricemic effects. Consequently, the use of Dioscorea septemloba in the form of rhizomes provides a valuable foundation for understanding its therapeutic potential.
Parts used
Dioscorea septemloba is a significant plant species widely recognized for its medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine. A primary part of this plant utilized for therapeutic purposes is the rhizome. These rhizomes are specifically employed in various treatments, including those for rheumatism and renal or urethral infections. Recent chemical profiling has focused on investigating the complex phytochemical components found within these structures. By utilizing advanced mass spectrometry, researchers are uncovering new potential medicinal ingredients that highlight the plant's pharmacological importance.