Dysphania incisa
Dysphania incisa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dysphania incisa is a botanical species recognized for its diverse range of pharmacological activities, including analgesic, antinociceptive, larvicidal, and ovicidal properties. Scientific investigations into its chemical profile have identified key bioactive compounds such as pinocembrin, pinostrobin, and chrysin. These constituents contribute to the plant's potential in addressing medical conditions like abdominal pain and infections caused by Candida albicans. Various preparation methods are utilized to harness these benefits, ranging from the use of crude drugs and infusions to specialized CH2Cl2-MeOH extracts and essential oils. Consequently, this plant serves as a significant subject of study for both traditional medicine and modern drug development.
- Synonyms
- Chenopodium Incisum Var. Mexicanum · Chenopodium Incisum Var. Neomexicanum · 24 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dysphania incisa is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and linguistic identifiers. In English-speaking regions, it is most commonly referred to as Fetid goosefoot. Its nomenclature shifts across cultures, appearing as Epazote de monte or Epazote de zorrillo in various Spanish-speaking communities. German speakers recognize the species as Duftender Drüsengänsefuß, highlighting its distinct aromatic qualities. Additionally, the plant is sometimes known by the name Yerba larca, demonstrating its wide-ranging presence in folk traditions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dysphania incisa is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms that reflect its evolving classification. Scientific literature identifies this species under several alternative names, including Ambrina graveolens and Ambrina incisa. It has also been closely linked to various forms of Chenopodium, such as Chenopodium ambrosioides var. graveolens and Chenopodium graveolens. Furthermore, the plant is recognized in historical records as Chenopodium foetidum f. pumilum. Navigating these overlapping nomenclatures is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify the plant across different studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dysphania incisa is a member of the kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this vast realm, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida. It is further classified under the order Caryophyllales, which defines its evolutionary lineage. This plant is a specific member of the genus Dysphania, distinguishing it from closely related flora. Ultimately, its biological identity is anchored within the family Amaranthaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Dysphania |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dysphania incisa is a versatile plant with a broad geographical presence spanning multiple continents. In Europe, it is notably established throughout Middle Europe and Germany. Its reach extends significantly into North America, where it is widely distributed across various regions of Mexico. Specifically, the species can be found in the central, gulf, and northeast territories of the country. Additionally, its habitat encompasses the northwest regions of Mexico, showcasing its remarkable adaptability to diverse climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dysphania incisa is a self-supporting herb that maintains a sturdy upright structure. This plant reaches a maximum height of 0.9 meters as it matures. Its compact growth form makes it a distinctive feature in its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Dysphania incisa exhibits a diverse range of biological properties that highlight its significant pharmacological potential. Research indicates that the plant possesses notable analgesic and antinociceptive activities, which support its traditional use in managing pain. Beyond its therapeutic effects on human discomfort, the plant also demonstrates potent insecticidal capabilities. Specifically, it has shown effectiveness as both a larvicide and an ovicide against various biological targets. These multifaceted relationships underscore the plant's importance in both medicinal and pest control applications.
Compounds
Dysphania incisa is a plant species known to contain several significant bioactive metabolites. Research indicates that this plant contains pinocembrin, a flavanone that has demonstrated various pharmacological activities. In addition to this compound, the plant is characterized by the presence of pinostrobin. It also contains chrysin, which contributes to its overall chemical profile. These specific secondary metabolites are essential to understanding the medicinal potential of the species.
Conditions
Dysphania incisa, referred to in the text as Dysphania graveolens, is utilized in traditional medicine to treat various gastrointestinal ailments. This plant is known to effectively treat abdominal pain through its demonstrated antinociceptive properties. Its medicinal profile includes the ability to treat Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. Furthermore, research indicates that it can treat Candida albicans. Finally, the bioactive components found within the plant serve to treat conditions requiring a fasciolicide.
Preparations
Dysphania incisa is prepared as a CH2Cl2-MeOH extract to evaluate its antinociceptive pharmacological profile. This plant is also prepared as a crude drug, which serves as a subject for quantifying active flavonoids. Research indicates that Dysphania incisa is prepared as an essential oil, which was found to be the most active partition for pain relief. Additionally, the species is prepared as an infusion to isolate metabolites like pinostrobin, pinocembrin, and chrysin. Finally, the plant is prepared as methanol extracts for various analytical and medicinal investigations.