Elsholtzia densa
Elsholtzia densa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Elsholtzia densa is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse array of biological activities. Research indicates that its extracts exhibit significant (-)-chronotropic and (-)-inotropic effects, alongside potent allelochemic properties. Studies involving various preparations, such as 50% ethanolic, absolute ethanolic, methanolic, and crude extracts, have explored its complex chemical profile. These investigations often focus on the plant's influence on physiological conditions like hydrogen peroxide production and lipid peroxidation. Additionally, the plant is noted for its potential allergenic qualities, necessitating careful investigation into its bioactive components.
- Synonyms
- Platyelasma Manshuricum · Pogostemon Ianthinus · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Elsholtzia densa is a fascinating plant known by several distinct names across different cultures and languages. In Russian-speaking regions, it is commonly referred to as Эльсгольция густая. Moving to Japan, the species is recognized by the name ミヤマコウジュ. Those studying its botanical characteristics in a Chinese context may encounter it as 密花香薷. These various regional names highlight the widespread interest and diverse linguistic identities associated with this specific species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Elsholtzia densa is a complex species that is frequently identified by various botanical synonyms in scientific literature. It is widely recognized under the name Dysophylla ianthina, a designation that reflects its diverse taxonomic history. Researchers also encounter this plant listed as Elsholtzia calycocarpa, illustrating the overlap in its naming conventions. Further variations include specific forms and varieties such as Elsholtzia densa f. alba and Elsholtzia densa var. calycocarpa. Finally, the plant is sometimes classified as Elsholtzia densa var. ianthina, adding another layer to its intricate botanical relationships.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Elsholtzia densa is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this diverse kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is a member of the order Lamiales, which helps define its unique evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, it is nested within the prominent family Lamiaceae, a group known for its aromatic characteristics. Ultimately, this species is identified by its specific placement within the genus Elsholtzia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Elsholtzia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Elsholtzia densa is a plant species primarily distributed across the temperate regions of Asia. Its presence is notable within Central Asia, specifically spanning the landscapes of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. In the expansive territory of China, the species can be found throughout the North-Central and South-Central provinces. Furthermore, its habitat extends northward into the regions of Inner Mongolia. This wide-ranging distribution highlights the plant's adaptability to various temperate environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Elsholtzia densa is a self-supporting herb that grows in a compact, upright fashion. This plant typically reaches a modest maximum height of 0.5 meters. However, its stature can vary significantly depending on environmental conditions, sometimes measuring as little as 0.06 meters. These growth characteristics define its physical presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Elsholtzia densa is a rare annual herb native to the Kashmir valley that demonstrates significant antioxidant properties. Scientific evaluations of its crude extracts reveal a strong capacity for scavenging free radicals through various testing methods. Specifically, the 50% ethanolic extract showed exceptional results in DPPH and ferric thiocyanate assays, performing at levels comparable to α-tocopherol. Additionally, the plant's methanolic extract proved highly effective in reducing oxidative damage to DNA. These promising findings suggest that the species holds substantial potential for further integration into both traditional and modern medicinal systems.
Compounds
Conditions
Elsholtzia densa demonstrates significant antioxidant efficacy by effectively treating DNA sugar damage through its methanolic extracts. The plant also shows a strong ability to treat ferric thiocyanate (FTC), with its 50% ethanolic extract performing comparably to α-tocopherol. Furthermore, it provides protection by treating hydrogen peroxide through its free radical scavenging activities. The extracts are also capable of treating the linoleic acid system, showing high antioxidant activity in this specific assay. Finally, the plant serves as a medicinal agent that treats lipid peroxidation, contributing to its overall potential in reducing oxidative damage.
Preparations
Elsholtzia densa is prepared as crude extracts to evaluate its antioxidant efficacy across various assays. The plant is also prepared as a 50% ethanolic extract, which demonstrated high effectiveness in DPPH, linoleic acid, and FTC scavenging tests. Additionally, Elsholtzia densa is prepared as a methanolic extract, showing the greatest activity in reducing oxidative DNA damage. Researchers further processed the plant as absolute ethanolic extracts to measure total phenolic concentrations. These different preparation methods allow for a comprehensive assessment of the herb's medicinal potential.