Dolichandra unguis-cati
Dolichandra unguis-cati · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dolichandra unguis-cati, commonly known as cat's claw vine, is a climbing plant that has gained significant attention in pharmacological research. Recent studies have focused on evaluating its medicinal potential through the use of hydroethanolic extracts. These specific preparations are being investigated for their potent antimalarial properties against various pathogens. Furthermore, the biological activity of the plant is being tested on HepG2 cells to assess its effects on liver cell lines. This research aims to uncover the therapeutic mechanisms underlying its traditional medicinal uses.
- Synonyms
- Batocydia Unguis-Cati · Doxantha Unguis-Cati Var. Microphylla · 34 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dolichandra unguis-cati is a versatile climbing vine recognized by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In various local contexts, it is affectionately or traditionally referred to as Anil kab or Bejuco de murciélago. Most English speakers identify the plant through its distinctive physical features, calling it Cat Claw or Cat's Claw. It is also frequently documented in botanical circles as the Cat's Claw Creeper. These various monikers highlight the plant's widespread presence and its unique, hook-like tendrils.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dolichandra unguis-cati is a botanical species known by several different scientific names throughout various taxonomic studies. This plant is frequently identified by the synonym Batocydia unguis-cati in certain botanical records. It has also been classified under the name Bignonia acutistipula in older literature. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this climber listed as Bignonia californica or Bignonia catharinensis. Finally, the name Bignonia dasyonyx serves as another valid synonym associated with this versatile vine.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dolichandra unguis-cati is a fascinating organism that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is a member of the order Lamiales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It further belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, which helps define its distinct botanical characteristics. Finally, its scientific identity is solidified by its placement within the genus Dolichandra.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Dolichandra |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dolichandra unguis-cati is a versatile plant with an expansive geographical footprint spanning several continents. Its presence is firmly established across Africa and the Western Indian Ocean, including the Comoros islands. The species also thrives within the tropical regions of Asia, stretching from the Indian Subcontinent and Bangladesh to the landscapes of Indo-China and Myanmar. Moving toward the Pacific, the plant has successfully integrated into the Australasian region. Specifically, it can be found growing throughout parts of Australia, including New South Wales and Queensland.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dolichandra unguis-cati is characterized by an obligatory climbing habit, meaning it relies entirely on external structures to ascend and support its growth.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Dolichandra unguis-cati, also referred to as Macfadyena unguis-cati, demonstrates significant medicinal potential through several diverse biological activities. The plant is widely recognized in folk medicine for its effective anti-inflammatory and antimalarial properties. Research into its chemical fractions has specifically revealed successful antitumoral and antitrypanosomal activities. Furthermore, studies on its cytotoxicity indicate that the plant exhibits low toxicity when treating HepG2 cells. These various therapeutic relationships highlight the plant's broad utility in addressing multiple health concerns.
Preparations
Dolichandra unguis-cati is prepared as a hydroethanolic extract through a specific process involving drying, powdering, and maceration in an ethanol-water solution. This preparation method utilizes an ethanol-water ratio of 7:3 to extract components from the plant. Following the maceration process, the resulting extracts are freeze-dried and then dissolved in DMSO for use in bioassays. In the studied research, this particular hydroethanolic extract of Dolichandra unguis-cati demonstrated low cytotoxicity against the HepG2 cell line. The extract's safety profile was characterized by an IC50 value greater than 500 µg/mL after 24 hours of treatment.