Ehretia asperula
Ehretia asperula · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ehretia asperula is a botanical species known for its diverse medicinal applications in traditional healing practices. Recent scientific investigations have focused specifically on the therapeutic potential of its leaves to address various health concerns. To harness these biological activities, researchers utilize a concentrated 95% ethanol extract (95ECH) derived from the plant material. This specific preparation is being studied for its significant ability to combat conditions related to inflammation. Understanding the efficacy of this extract provides valuable insights into the plant's role in modern pharmacology.
- Synonyms
- Ehretia Hanceana
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Ehretia asperula is widely recognized by its popular common name, xạ đen, in various regions. This plant holds a significant place in traditional herbal practices due to its unique properties. Many people seek out this specific species for its perceived health benefits and medicinal value. Understanding its identity is essential for those interested in the diverse world of botanical resources. Consequently, learning about its botanical classification helps bridge the gap between scientific study and local folklore.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ehretia asperula is a botanical species that is frequently identified in various scientific literatures. Within the study of plant taxonomy, this specific organism is also recognized by its synonym, Ehretia hanceana. Understanding these nomenclature connections is essential for researchers tracking the plant's distribution and characteristics. Such taxonomic overlaps ensure that botanists can accurately categorize the specimen across different databases. Ultimately, recognizing both names allows for a more cohesive understanding of its place within the Ehretia genus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ehretia asperula is a distinct species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this botanical realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Boraginales, reflecting its specific evolutionary lineage. It falls under the family Boraginaceae, a group known for its unique floral characteristics. Finally, this species is a member of the genus Ehretia, which defines its fundamental biological identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Ehretia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ehretia asperula is a versatile plant species with a broad geographical presence across various Asian regions. It can be found in temperate zones within China, specifically around Hainan. The species also flourishes throughout tropical Asia, spanning the diverse landscapes of Indo-China and Vietnam. Its distribution extends further into the Malesia region, where it is commonly located in Borneo, Jawa, and Malaya. This wide-ranging habitat allows the plant to adapt to both temperate and tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ehretia asperula is a versatile plant that typically reaches a moderate height within its natural habitat. Depending on specific environmental conditions, its growth usually ranges from a minimum of 3 meters to a minimum of 4 meters. Ultimately, this species stabilizes at a maximum height of approximately 5 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Ehretia asperula is a medicinal plant from the Ehretiaceae family traditionally used to treat inflammatory disorders. Research indicates that its hydroethanolic extract possesses significant anti-inflammatory potential by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2. Specifically, the extract works to treat inflammation by suppressing phagocytosis and nitric oxide production in activated macrophage cells. It further manages inflammatory responses by regulating the expression of various cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. These findings suggest that the compounds found in the leaves of E. asperula are highly valuable for the effective management of inflammation.
Preparations
Ehretia asperula is prepared as a 95% ethanol extract, commonly referred to as 95ECH, to investigate its medicinal properties. This specific hydroethanolic extract is utilized to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of the plant's leaves. Researchers found that the 95ECH preparation was particularly effective at inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2. By using this 95% ethanol extract, studies demonstrated a significant suppression of nitric oxide production and cytokine expression in activated macrophage cells. Consequently, the preparation of Ehretia asperula as 95ECH serves as a vital method for identifying compounds useful in inflammation management.
Parts used
Ehretia asperula serves as a significant medicinal plant within the Ehretiaceae family, particularly noted for its role in treating various inflammatory disorders. Research indicates that the leaves of this species contain bioactive compounds capable of modulating complex immune responses. Specifically, a hydroethanolic extract derived from the leaves has demonstrated a strong ability to inhibit enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). This extract effectively suppresses nitric oxide production and regulates key cytokine expressions in activated macrophage cells. Ultimately, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Ehretia asperula leaf extracts for advanced inflammation management.