Eremanthus elaeagnus
Eremanthus elaeagnus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eremanthus elaeagnus is a botanical species that has garnered significant interest due to its unique chemical profile. Within its composition, the plant contains a specific chemical known as eremanthine. Research has focused on this compound to explore its potential efficacy in treating medical conditions such as schistosomiasis. Scientific investigations often involve the use of eremanthine preparations to study its therapeutic properties. Understanding this plant's bioactive potential remains a vital area of pharmacological study.
- Synonyms
- Albertinia Elaeagnus · Vernonia Elaeagnus · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Eremanthus elaeagnus is a botanical species that has been classified under several different names throughout its scientific history. Taxonomists have frequently referred to this plant using the synonym Albertinia elaeagnus. It has also been documented in botanical records as Eremanthus seidelii. Furthermore, the name Vernonia elaeagnus serves as another valid synonym for this particular plant. Understanding these various nomenclatures is essential for researchers tracking its evolutionary lineage.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Eremanthus elaeagnus is a distinctive species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this botanical kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further belongs to the order Asterales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. It is a member of the diverse Asteraceae family, which is known for its complex floral structures. Ultimately, this species is defined by its specific placement within the genus Eremanthus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eremanthus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Eremanthus elaeagnus is a botanical species primarily found throughout the diverse landscapes of Southern America. Its presence is particularly notable within the vast and ecologically rich regions of Brazil. Within the country, the plant exhibits a widespread distribution that extends deeply into the Southeast. This specific geographic range highlights the unique environmental conditions that support its growth. Understanding these patterns provides essential insight into the natural habitat of this distinctive plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eremanthus elaeagnus is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 5 meters as it matures. Its sturdy structure allows it to stand independently within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Eremanthus elaeagnus is a plant species known to contain the lactone compound eremanthine. This specific substance has gained scientific interest due to its documented cercaricidal action in experimental animals. Researchers have investigated its potential utility in the prophylaxis of schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni. To ensure safety, studies were conducted to evaluate whether eremanthine could induce clastogenicity in mammalian cells. Ultimately, experimental results indicated that the compound did not cause significant chromosomal aberrations in vivo or in vitro.
Conditions
Eremanthus elaeagnus provides the lactone eremanthine, a compound recognized for its potent cercaricidal action in experimental animals. This biological effect suggests that the plant's extract has significant potential for the prophylaxis of schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni. Research indicates that eremanthine can be administered via gavage to achieve these medicinal results. Studies conducted on mice and human lymphocyte cultures demonstrate that the substance does not induce chromosomal aberrations. Consequently, the plant offers a promising avenue for treating schistosomiasis without causing clastogenic effects in mammalian cells.
Preparations
Eremanthus elaeagnus is the botanical source from which the lactone eremanthine is extracted. This specific chemical compound is prepared from the plant to utilize its known cercaricidal properties. Researchers utilize eremanthine in studies concerning the prophylaxis of schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni. The substance is tested across various mammalian models to evaluate its potential genotoxicity and clastogenicity. Through these extraction and preparation processes, the plant provides a key agent for pharmacological investigation.