Eriobotrya deflexa
What's the taxonomical classification of Eriobotrya deflexa?
Eriobotrya deflexa belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. Following its taxonomic hierarchy, it is placed in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. The plant falls under the order Rosales and is a member of the family Rosaceae. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Eriobotrya, with its specific designation being the species deflexa.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Eriobotrya |
| Species | deflexa |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Eriobotrya deflexa has large, leathery, evergreen leaves that are oblong-lanceolate in shape, featuring serrated margins and a distinctive dense covering of brownish-white tomentum on the undersides. The upper surfaces of the foliage are dark green and glabrous, providing a sharp contrast to the fuzzy texture below. These leaves are arranged alternately along woody stems that become increasingly textured with age. During the flowering season, the plant produces clusters of white, fragrant flowers that eventually develop into large, fleshy pome fruits. The overall structure is that of a dense, spreading shrub or small tree with a robust canopy.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the mountainous regions of central and southern China, specifically occurring within the provinces of Hubei, Hunan, and Sichuan. It thrives in high-altitude environments where it can be found growing along the edges of forests and in rocky crevices. The species is typically distributed across temperate zones that offer consistent moisture and moderate temperatures. While its primary range is confined to these specific East Asian habitats, local populations are often isolated by complex topographical features. This restricted range makes the plant a specialized component of its local montane ecosystems.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant Eriobotrya deflexa requires full sun to partial shade and well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
It is a large evergreen shrub or small tree that thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. Regular watering is essential during the establishment phase, though established specimens can tolerate moderate drought conditions. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature in warmer climates.
Pruning should be performed in late winter to maintain shape and encourage healthy new growth.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Eriobotrya deflexa is primarily used medicinally for its leaves, which contain various bioactive compounds. These leaves are often processed into syrups, teas, or decoctions to treat respiratory ailments like coughs and asthma. They possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe irritated airways. Additionally, extracts from the leaves can be applied topically to manage skin issues. The medicinal efficacy of the plant relies heavily on the specific chemical constituents found within the foliage.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", a phytochemical study on a methanolic extract of leaves of Eriobotrya deflexa led to the isolation and characterization of nine terpenoid compounds. Four of these are new chemical entities, which include two monoterpene glycosides labeled as (1) and (2). These two glycosides are (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(E)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool and (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(Z)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool. Additionally, two triterpene acids were identified, specifically 1beta,2alpha,19alpha-trihydroxy-3-oxo-12-ursen-28-oic acid (3) and 2alpha,3alpha,19alpha-trihydroxy-12-oleanen-28-oic acid (4). The activities of these isolates were determined through an in vitro antiproliferation test.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaves
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Eriobotrys deflexa has been utilized in traditional East Asian medicine primarily for its ability to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs and asthma.
Practitioners historically prepared various parts of the plant, including the leaves and bark, to create decoctions aimed at relieving congestion. In certain regional folk practices, the fruit was also consumed as a dietary component to support overall wellness.
These historical applications underscore the plant's long-standing importance in herbal pharmacopeias across its native range.
What are the pharmacological activities of Eriobotrya deflexa?
This plant has antioxidant properties and acts as an inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity. These specific pharmacological actions suggest that extracts from Eriobotrya deflexa may play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. By suppressing the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9, the plant might also help prevent the degradation of the extracellular matrix. Such biological mechanisms are often studied for their potential in managing inflammatory processes and tissue remodeling. These combined effects highlight the medicinal potential of the species in various therapeutic contexts.
According to a study published by "Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology", the 70% aqueous acetone extracts of Eriobotrya deflexa were evaluated using various antioxidant assays. These extracts effectively inhibited the formation of .OH generated in the Fenton reaction system. Among the extracts whose reducing power activities were determined, Eriobotrya deflexa showed high activity.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- antioxidant
- inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(E)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool and (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(Z)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool. These complex glycosides are specialized secondary metabolites found within the Eriobotrya deflexa species. The chemical structures of these molecules are characterized by their specific coumaroyl substitutions and rhamnosyl linkages. Researchers study these unique glycosylated derivatives to understand their potential biological activities and therapeutic properties. Such detailed phytochemical profiles contribute to the overall medicinal value of the plant.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", a phytochemical study on a methanolic extract of leaves of Eriobotrya deflexa led to the isolation and characterization of nine terpenoid compounds. Four of these are new chemical entities, which include two monoterpene glycosides identified as (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(E)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool (1) and (3S)-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->3)-[4-O-(Z)-coumaroyl]-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-linalool (2). Additionally, the study isolated two triterpene acids, specifically 1beta,2alpha,19alpha-trihydroxy-3-oxo-12-ursen-28-oic acid (3) and 2alpha,3alpha,19alpha-trihydroxy-12-oleanen-28-oic acid (4). The structures of these isolates were elucidated through spectroscopic analysis. The activities of these isolates were also determined in an in vitro antiproliferation test.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- The provided list contains only 2 compounds. Therefore, it is impossible to extract 5.
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating skin aging, reducing inflammation, and managing oxidative stress in various biological tissues. Its bioactive compounds help mitigate the visible effects of the aging process in the skin by promoting cellular regeneration. The plant also possesses antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, its medicinal qualities are applied to soothe irritated skin and support overall dermatological health. These multifaceted benefits make it a valuable component in many topical treatments.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", Eriobotrya deflex is used for its potential to serve as an inhibitor of the ageing process in the skin. The plant was among eight native Taiwanese materials screened for phenolic contents and their ability to measure matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity. The extracted yields of plants in the study ranged from 3.7 % to 16.9 %. Total phenolic contents ranged from 25.4 to 36.8 mg GAE/g dry material. The extract from Eriobotrya deflex was shown to inhibit MMP-9 activity of WS-1 cell after ultraviolet B irradiation.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- ageing process in the skin
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Eriobotrya deflexa, a species used to create medicinal herbal preparations such as various types of extracts. The methanolic extract is frequently prepared from the leaves to harness specific bioactive compounds for therapeutic use. These preparations often undergo standardized processes to ensure a consistent concentration of phytochemicals. Researchers study these extracts to evaluate their potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Such medicinal applications rely on the precise extraction of secondary metabolites from the plant tissues.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", Eriobotrya deflex was one of eight native Taiwanese plants screened for phenolic contents and matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity. The extracted yields of the plants studied ranged from 3.7 % to 16.9 %. Total phenolic contents for these materials ranged from 25.4 to 36.8 mg GAE/g dry material. Except for Vitis adstricta Hance, all extracts were shown to inhibit the MMP-9 activity of WS-1 cells after ultraviolet B irradiation. These findings suggest that the plant's total phenolic content may influence MMP-9 activity and could serve as a potent inhibitor of the ageing process in the skin.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- extracts
- methanolic extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause allergic reactions such as skin irritation, itching, and rashes when the sap or leaves come into direct contact with human skin. Many individuals experience contact dermatitis after handling the plant due to its chemical properties. If the plant is accidentally ingested, it may lead to digestive distress or more severe gastrointestinal issues. Some people may also develop respiratory irritation if they inhale any dust or particles from the plant. It is essential to handle this species with caution to avoid these adverse health responses.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Eriobotrya deflexa?
This plant Eriobotrys deflexa pairs most effectively with aromatic herbs such as sage, rosemary, and thyme to balance its subtle botanical profile.
The woody notes of rosemary complement the plant's structure while sage provides an earthy undertone that enhances its natural essence. Thyme acts as a bright bridge that connects the different flavor profiles within a culinary or medicinal blend. Using these specific pairings ensures that the unique characteristics of the species are neither overwhelmed nor lost.
This strategic combination allows for a more nuanced and harmonious sensory experience.