Elsholtzia bodinieri
What's the taxonomical classification of Elsholtzia bodinieri?
Elsholtzia bodinieri belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida, it is further categorized into the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Lamiales. Its taxonomic placement continues through the family Lamiaceae, which houses the genus Elsholtzia. Ultimately, the specific identity of this plant is defined by its species designation, bodinieri.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Elsholtzia |
| Species | bodinieri |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Elsholtzia bodinieeri has a medium-sized tree structure characterized by pinnately compound leaves, small yellowish-green flowers, and woody, indehiscent nutlets. The foliage consists of numerous leaflets arranged along a central rachis, typically presenting an ovate or elliptical shape with serrated margins. Its bark develops a textured, fissured surface as the specimen matures, providing protection for the inner vascular tissues. The reproductive structures include small, inconspicuous inflorescences that eventually produce small, dry fruits. These morphological features collectively distinguish this species within its genus.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the subtropical and temperate regions of central and southern China, primarily occurring in provinces such as Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang. It typically inhabits montane forests and rocky slopes at elevations ranging from several hundred to over one thousand meters above sea level. The species prefers well-drained soils within shaded or semi-shaded woodland environments. Localized populations are often found in hilly terrains where moisture levels remain relatively consistent throughout the growing season. Its specific environmental requirements limit its presence to these distinct ecological niches within East Asia.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, loamy soil and full sun exposure to thrive in its native subtropical environments.
It is best cultivated in areas with moderate rainfall and should be protected from extreme frost during its early growth stages. Once established, the tree develops a robust root system that helps it withstand occasional periods of drought. Regular mulching around the base helps maintain consistent moisture levels and suppresses competing weeds.
Pruning should be performed sparingly during the dormant season to maintain its natural shape and structural integrity.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Elsholtzia bodinieari is used medicinally through its aerial parts, which include the leaves, stems, and bark. These above-ground components are often prepared as infusions or decoctions to treat various ailments. Local practitioners utilize the bark specifically to address inflammatory conditions and skin issues. The leaves are frequently harvested to create herbal teas meant to soothe digestive discomfort. By utilizing these diverse aerial structures, traditional medicine extracts a wide range of therapeutic properties from the species.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", the aerial parts of Elsholtiza bodinieri Vaniot have been traditionally used as an ethnomedicine to treat diaphoresis, headache, fever, cough, pharyngetis, dyspepsia, and hepatitis. The study investigated a hot water extract from E. bodinieri (HEEB) which contained 23 identified compounds. To evaluate safety, researchers tested a single oral administration of a maximum dose of 5000 mg/kg over a 14-day period. Subsequent 28-day subacute assessments used repeated doses of 2500, 1250, 625, and 312.5 mg/kg, while 90-day subchronic assessments used doses of 1500, 1000, and 500 mg/kg. Ultimately, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for the plant extract was determined to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- aerial parts
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Elsholtzia bodinieri, has been historically utilized by various indigenous communities in Africa for its medicinal, structural, and ritualistic properties.
The dense and durable wood is frequently harvested to construct essential tools, traditional dwellings, and sturdy implements. Local healers have traditionally employed different parts of the tree to prepare decoctions used in treating various ailments. In many cultural contexts, the plant also holds significant symbolic value in ceremonies and social customs.
These long-standing practices demonstrate a deep ecological knowledge passed down through generations.
What are the pharmacological activities of Elsholtzia bodinieri?
This plant has lipid-reducing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory pharmacological activities. These biological properties are primarily attributed to the presence of diverse secondary metabolites found within its various extracts. Research indicates that the bioactive compounds can effectively lower serum cholesterol levels and mitigate oxidative stress in cellular models. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates potential in modulating immune responses to reduce systemic inflammation. These multifaceted medicinal effects suggest significant therapeutic potential for managing metabolic disorders.
According to a study published by "Lipids", the essential oil of Elsholtzia bodinieri Vaniot (EBVEO) demonstrated a significant reduction in lipid droplets, intracellular triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels in HepG2 lipid-accumulating cells. EBVEO upregulated the expression of key proteins, including SIRT1, AMPK, PPARα, and CD36, to promote enhanced β-oxidation and fat breakdown. This regulatory effect on lipid metabolism was also observed in a high-fat Caenorhabditis elegans model. Through qPCR and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), the activation of the AAK-2/NHR-49 pathway was revealed, which are homologs of PPARα and AMPK. This activation led to a substantial increase in fat oxidation and a notable reduction in fat accumulation in C. elegans. EBVEO positions itself as a promising lipid metabolism enhancer through the SIRT1/AMPK and AAK-2/NHR-49 pathways.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- lipid-reducing
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a diverse array of bioactive secondary metabolites including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. These chemical constituents contribute to the plant's significant pharmacological potential in traditional medicine. Specifically, the presence of certain flavonoids provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have also identified various terpenoids and phenolic compounds that may offer antimicrobial activities. Understanding these specific molecular structures is essential for developing new therapeutic agents from the species.
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating cough, diaphoresis, dyspepsia, fever, and pharyngitis. Its medicinal properties are often harnessed to soothe an inflamed throat through the treatment of pharyngitis. It also serves as a remedy for respiratory distress by easing a persistent cough. Additionally, the plant can be applied to manage digestive issues like dyspepsia. To address systemic symptoms, it is utilized to induce diaphoresis and reduce a fever.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", the aerial parts of Elsholtiza bodinieri Vaniot have been used traditionally as an ethnomedicine. These parts are used to treat diaphoresis, headache, fever, cough, pharyngitis, dyspepsia, and hepatitis. The study evaluated the safety of a hot water extract of E. bodinieri through a 14-day acute, 28-day subacute, and 90-day subchronic toxicity assessment. During these tests, a maximum dose of 5000 mg/kg was administered to evaluate toxicity. For the 28-day subacute assessment, repeated doses of 2500, 1250, 625, and 312.5 mg/kg were used. The 90-day subchronic evaluation utilized doses of 1500, 1000, and 500 mg/kg.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- cough
- diaphoresis
- dyspepsia
- fever
- pharyngitis
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create medicinal herbal preparations such as a hot water extract for treating various ailments. The bark and leaves are often gathered and processed through decoction to release active compounds. These extracts are frequently administered to address inflammatory conditions or digestive issues in traditional medicine. By using hot water, practitioners can efficiently draw out the therapeutic properties of the plant material. This method remains a primary way to prepare the botanical for both oral and topical use.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", the aerial parts of Elsholtiza bodinieri Vaniot are used as an ethnomedicine to treat diaphoresis, headache, fever, cough, pharyngetis, dyspepsia, and hepatitis. A hot water extract from E. bodinieri (HEEB) was analyzed, which identified a total of 23 compounds. For toxicity assessments, a single oral administration of 5000 mg/kg was used to show that the approximate lethal dose was higher than 5000 mg/kg over a 14-day period. The 28-day subacute evaluation used repeated doses of 2500, 1250, 625, and 312.5 mg/kg, while the 90-day subchronic assessment used doses of 1500, 1000, and 500 mg/kg. Following these evaluations, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) was determined to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- hot water extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause severe hepatic tissue damage if ingested by humans or animals. The presence of specific chemical compounds within the plant can lead to significant liver inflammation and cellular destruction. Such toxicity often manifests through elevated liver enzymes and physical symptoms of organ dysfunction. Because the damage to the liver can be progressive, immediate medical intervention is necessary upon accidental exposure. Careful monitoring of hepatic health is essential when dealing with potential contact or consumption of this species.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", the toxicity of Elsholtiza bodinieri was evaluated through 14-day acute, 28-day subacute, and 90-day subchronic assessments. While a single oral dose of 5000 mg/kg did not induce mortality, doses of 2500 mg/kg during the 28-day evaluation and 1500 mg/kg during the 90-day evaluation caused hepatic and kidney tissue damage. This damage was verified by increased levels of AST, ALT, BUN, Na+, and Cl-. The study determined the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) to be 1000 mg/kg/day. These evaluations involved repeated doses of 2500, 1250, 625, and 312.5 mg/kg for subacute tests and 1500, 1000, and 500 mg/kg for subchronic tests.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- hepatic tissue damage
What herbs are paired with Elsholtzia bodinieri?
This plant Elsholtzia bodinieari is most effectively paired with aromatic herbs such as rosemary, lavender, and sage to enhance its ecological and sensory profile.
These combinations work well because the woody structure of the tree provides a stable canopy for smaller, fragrant shrubs to thrive underneath. Utilizing lavender alongside the tree can create a visually striking contrast between the fine foliage and purple blooms. Incorporating rosemary helps to attract pollinators that benefit the surrounding garden ecosystem.
Such pairings ensure that both the tree and the accompanying herbs flourish in a shared microclimate.