Eleutherococcus trifoliatus
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus is a botanical species recognized for its diverse chemical composition, which includes essential elements like calcium, iron, and ash, alongside beneficial flavonoids. Primarily utilizing the leaf as the active plant part, this species can be prepared through various methods such as dried herbs or leaf cuttings. Research into its properties suggests significant therapeutic potential, specifically acting as an antioxidant and an analgesic. Furthermore, the plant has shown promise in managing body weight and providing hemostatic effects. Through these multifaceted applications, it remains a subject of great interest in herbal studies.
- Synonyms
- Aralia Trifoliata · Acanthopanax Aculeatus · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Araliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of regional and common names across the globe. In English-speaking botanical circles, it is frequently referred to as the Three-leaved Eleutherococcus or sometimes as slingeraralia. Its cultural significance is reflected in its diverse nomenclature, such as the name bai le used in various traditional contexts. In Russia, the species is recognized as Свободноягодник трёхлистный, while in Japan, it is called ミツバウコギ. This tapestry of names highlights the plant's widespread presence and importance in different linguistic landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus is a species that has been documented under several different botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature frequently identifies this plant using the synonyms Acanthopanax aculeatus and Acanthopanax sepium. It is also closely associated with the names Acanthopanax spinifolius and Acanthopanax trifoliatus in various taxonomic records. Additionally, researchers may encounter this specimen listed as Aralia trifoliata depending on the classification system used. Understanding these overlapping nomenclature relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Apiales, a group known for its distinct botanical characteristics. This plant is a member of the genus Eleutherococcus, which helps scientists identify its specific evolutionary lineage. Finally, it is nested within the family Araliaceae, anchoring its place in the complex hierarchy of biological relationships.
| 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 trifoliatus exhibits a broad geographical range that spans across several diverse regions of Asia. In temperate zones, the species is widely distributed throughout China, specifically within the South-Central and Southeast provinces. Its presence extends further east to the island of Taiwan, marking a significant portion of its Eastern Asian habitat. Moving into tropical climates, the plant is also well-established within the Indian Subcontinent. Specifically, it can be found flourishing in the lush environments of both Assam and Nepal.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus exhibits a facultative climbing habit, allowing it to ascend surrounding structures or vegetation when the opportunity arises.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus serves as a highly versatile medicinal and edible resource rich in diverse bioactive compounds. Scientific analysis reveals that the plant contains significant amounts of flavonoids and lignans, which contribute to its various pharmacological effects. In addition to these phytochemicals, the plant is a valuable source of essential minerals, including calcium, iron, and sodium. These components work together to support the plant's documented antioxidant and anticancer potential. Consequently, this species remains a promising subject for both traditional medicine and modern nutritional development.
Conditions
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus, also referred to as Acanthopanax trifoliatus, demonstrates significant immunoregulatory effects by restoring the CD4+/CD8+ and Th1/Th2 cytokine ratio. The plant's polysaccharides work to increase IL-10 levels while simultaneously decreasing IFN-γ to restore immune balance. Furthermore, the terpenoid compounds found within the plant exhibit potent anticancer activities against HepG2 cells. This medicinal herb also shows inhibitory effects against MCF-7 cancer cell lines. These diverse biological activities highlight the plant's potential for both immunomodulatory and anticancer therapeutic applications.
Preparations
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus is prepared as cuttings to facilitate clonal plant propagation, particularly using semi-lignified stem segments. The species is also prepared as leaf cuttings to significantly increase rooting rates during cultivation. For traditional medicinal use, the plant is prepared as a dried herb to treat various ailments like rheumatism and cough. Additionally, the plant is prepared as leaves for the specific purpose of enriching and purifying total saponins. Finally, extracts of the plant are prepared as petroleum ether and ethyl acetate fractions to isolate terpenoids with anticancer properties.
Parts used
Eleutherococcus trifoliatus, often identified in scientific literature as Acanthopanax trifoliatus, contains valuable chemical constituents located within its leaves. Research has successfully isolated a unique 24-nor-lupane-glycoside from these foliar tissues through detailed spectroscopic analysis. Furthermore, the leaves serve as a primary source for the purification of total saponins using specialized macroporous adsorption resins. Beyond their chemical complexity, the leaf samples are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary nutrients. Ultimately, the ethanolic extract of these leaves demonstrates significant antioxidant capacity and promising cytotoxic potential against various cancer cell lines.