Dryopteris dilatata
Dryopteris dilatata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dryopteris dilatata, commonly known as the maidenhair fern, is a significant botanical species studied for its diverse biological properties. Recent scientific investigations have focused on evaluating its potential therapeutic activities, particularly its potent antioxidant capabilities. Researchers have specifically utilized an ethanol extract to isolate the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects. This method allows for a concentrated analysis of how the plant can effectively mitigate oxidative injury within biological systems. Understanding these mechanisms provides valuable insight into the plant's role in combating cellular stress.
- Synonyms
- Polypodium Spinulosum Var. Dilatatum · Aspidium Dilatatum · 17 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dryopteris dilatata is a fascinating fern that is recognized by many different names across various languages and regions. In English, this species is widely known by its common name, the Broad Buckler-Fern. Its diverse nomenclature extends into German, where it is referred to as both Breitblättriger Dornfarn and Breitblättriger Wurmfarn. Danish speakers identify the plant as Bredbladet mangeløv, while in Norwegian, it is called Brede stekelvaren. These varying titles highlight the plant's widespread presence and its cultural significance in different botanical traditions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dryopteris dilatata is a complex species that is frequently identified by several different botanical synonyms. It has historically been referred to as Aspidium dilatatum, reflecting its shifting classification within the fern family. Taxonomists have also documented it under various forms, including Aspidium spinulosum subsp. dilatatum and Aspidium spinulosum var. dilatatum. Furthermore, the plant is closely linked to other names such as Dryopteris carthusiana subsp. dilatata. Finally, it is often recognized in scientific literature as Dryopteris spinulosa subsp. dilatata.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dryopteris dilatata is a distinctive species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further falls into the order Polypodiales, showcasing its evolutionary lineage. It is a member of the genus Dryopteris, which helps define its specific morphological characteristics. Ultimately, this fern is nested within the family Polypodiaceae, completing its scientific classification.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Polypodiinae |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Dryopteris |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dryopteris dilatata exhibits a remarkably diverse geographical range that spans several distinct climatic regions across the globe. In warmer territories, this species can be found throughout Africa and the Macaronesia islands, including the Azores. Its resilience is further evidenced by its presence in the harsh environments of Antarctica, the Subantarctic Islands, and the Falkland Islands. Within the Asia-Temperate zone, the plant thrives across the Caucasus, Transcaucasus, and the vast landscapes of Mongolia. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to a vast array of ecological niches.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dryopteris dilatata is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinct growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.2 meters in favorable conditions. Depending on its specific environment, the stature of the fern can vary significantly. Its height often fluctuates between a minimum of 0.25 meters and 0.6 meters. Such structural diversity allows the species to adapt effectively to its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Dryopteris dilatata has demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, offering potential therapeutic benefits for managing metabolic complications. Research indicates that ethanol extracts of this plant can effectively mitigate oxidative stress in alloxan-induced diabetic models. By targeting oxidative injury, the extract helps protect vital organs such as the pancreas, liver, and kidneys from damage. Furthermore, the plant aids in reducing hyperglycemia and attenuating inflammatory markers associated with diabetic complications. These findings suggest that Dryopteris dilatata could serve as a valuable nutraceutical in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.
Compounds
Conditions
Dryopteris dilatata demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating alloxan-induced hyperglycaemia in diabetic models. The plant effectively treats diabetes by reducing fasting blood sugar levels and managing related pathological conditions. It also works to treat liver and kidney inflammatory markers through the inhibition of oxido-inflammatory stress. Additionally, the extract treats liver and kidney injury markers, which helps to attenuate organ damage and stabilize organ weight. Finally, Dryopteris dilatata treats oxidative injury by ameliorating oxidative stress within the pancreas, liver, and kidneys.
Preparations
Dryopteris dilatata is prepared as an ethanol extract to investigate its potential medicinal benefits in ethnopharmacology. This specific ethanol extract, referred to as EEDD, was utilized in a study to evaluate its anti-diabetogenic and antioxidant properties. Researchers administered the prepared extract to alloxan-induced diabetic rats to observe its effects on hyperglycemia and oxidative stress. The study demonstrated that this ethanol-based preparation significantly reduced blood sugar levels and ameliorated markers of oxidative injury. Ultimately, the preparation of Dryopteris dilatata as an ethanol extract showed promise for use as a nutraceutical in managing diabetes and its complications.