Eleutherococcus nodiflorus
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a unique botanical species characterized by its diverse chemical composition, most notably its rich concentration of saponins. Researchers often focus on the various parts of the plant, including the stem, root, and fruit, to study its biological potential. Scientific investigations have specifically explored how extracts from the root bark and aqueous fruit preparations can influence cell proliferation. By utilizing both standard extracts and aqueous gum extracts (AGE), scientists aim to unlock the plant's full therapeutic possibilities. This multifaceted plant offers significant interest for those studying the relationship between natural compounds and cellular growth.
- Synonyms
- Acanthopanax Nodiflorus · Aralia Scandens · 21 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Araliaceae
- Distribution
- Europe
- Plant Parts
- Fruit · Root
Classification
Common Names
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a fascinating plant known by a diverse array of regional and traditional names. In various contexts, it is referred to as common eleuterokok štíhlostopký or läkestickaralia. Local botanical circles may also use the terms rohtoaralehti and všehojovec uzlokvetý to identify this species. Furthermore, it is recognized in certain linguistic traditions as xi zhu wu jia. These varied names highlight the plant's broad geographic presence and cultural significance across different parts of the world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a plant species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several botanical synonyms. Most notably, it is closely associated with the name Acanthopanax gracilistylus in various botanical records. This relationship extends to several distinct varieties, including the classification of Acanthopanax gracilistylus var. major. Furthermore, the plant is linked to several other specific forms, such as var. pubescens and var. trifoliolatus. Finally, the taxonomic connections are completed by its identification as Acanthopanax gracilistylus var. villosulus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Apiales. It is further distinguished by its membership in the family Araliaceae, a group known for diverse characteristics. Specifically, this species is a part of the genus Eleutherococcus, which helps scientists identify its unique evolutionary lineage. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the biological identity of this plant.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Eleutherococcus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate region. Its presence is most notable across various parts of China, including the North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast territories. Beyond the mainland, the species also extends its reach into Eastern Asia, specifically finding a home in Taiwan. This broad geographical spread highlights the plant's adaptability to different regional environments within its habitat. Understanding these specific distribution patterns provides valuable insight into the ecological range of the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This hardy plant is entirely self-supporting, maintaining its structure without the need for external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a plant species known to contain significant concentrations of saponins. These bioactive compounds are often studied for their complex physiological effects on human blood components. Similar research into related species has demonstrated that certain saponins can effectively inhibit platelet aggregation and the liberation of platelet factor 4. Such inhibitory actions suggest that these chemical constituents may play a vital role in preventing thrombosis in vitro. Consequently, understanding the saponin content in species like Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is essential for exploring potential antithrombotic applications.
Conditions
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus, specifically through the study of Acanthopanax gracilistylus, demonstrates a suppressive effect on B cell activities involving the production of immunoglobulin. The plant also treats T cell activities by reducing the production of interferon-gamma. Additionally, it is shown to treat the alloantigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte response. Research indicates that its components, such as gracilistones A and B, effectively treat LPS-induced nitric oxide production in macrophages. Finally, the plant exhibits antioxidant properties by treating DPPH• and ABTS•+ radicals.
Preparations
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is prepared as an extract, often referred to in studies as AGE, to investigate its effects on tumor cell proliferation and lymphocyte suppression. The plant is also prepared as fruits, which serve as the source for isolating various chemical constituents like acankoreoside and oleanolic acid. Additionally, the root bark of the plant is prepared to yield anti-inflammatory diterpenoids and triterpene acids. The stems are also prepared as a source to study and isolate specific chemical compounds such as coniferin and stigmasterol. Through these different preparations, various parts of the plant provide unique bioactive substances for scientific research.
Parts used
Eleutherococcus nodiflorus is a plant species that contains several distinct morphological parts utilized in chemical research. Specifically, the plant possesses a fruit that serves as a source for various isolated chemical constituents. Scientific investigation also reveals that the root is a significant component of the organism. Furthermore, the stem is identified as a key part of the plant's structure. Together, these components provide a diverse range of biological materials for study.