Eriosema chinense

Eriosema chinense · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Eriosema chinense is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its unique chemical profile. Researchers have specifically focused on the dichloromethane extract of the roots to investigate its bioactive potential. This preparation contains significant amounts of polyphenols, along with specialized compounds such as Eriosematin and Flemichin D. Studies have highlighted the importance of these constituents when evaluating the plant's effects against the pathogen Candida albicans. Consequently, the root extracts of Eriosema chinense represent a promising area for pharmacological exploration.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Pyrrhotrichia Tuberosa · Crotalaria Tuberosa · 1 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Fabaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Root

Classification

Common Names

Eriosema chinense is a unique botanical species known by several distinct names across different cultures. In English-speaking contexts, it is most frequently referred to by the common name Chinese Eriosema. The plant also holds various regional identities, such as ナンゴクノマメ in Japan and 毛瓣花 in certain Chinese-speaking areas. It is further recognized by the descriptive names 猪仔笠 and 绵三解. This diversity of nomenclature reflects the wide geographical and linguistic reach of the species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Eriosema chinense is a botanical species that is frequently identified by various alternative names in scientific literature. Within taxonomic records, it is recognized as a synonym of Crotalaria tuberosa. The plant is also closely associated with the name Eriosema himalaicum in certain classifications. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this same species listed under the synonym Pyrrhotrichia tuberosa. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification and study within the field of botany.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Eriosema chinense is a distinct biological entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It follows the specific taxonomic order of Fabales, which helps researchers understand its evolutionary lineage. This species is further categorized into the family Fabaceae, a group known for its diverse legumes. Finally, its precise botanical identity is defined by its placement within the genus Eriosema.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Fabales
Family Fabaceae
Genus Eriosema

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Eriosema chinense is a plant species widely distributed across various regions of Asia-Temperate. Within China, its presence is noted throughout the South-Central and Southeast provinces, as well as in the unique landscapes of Tibet and Hainan. The species also extends its range into Eastern Asia, specifically flourishing in Taiwan. This broad geographical spread highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse environments within the continent. Consequently, understanding its distribution provides valuable insight into the ecological niches it occupies across the Asian landscape.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Eriosema chinense is a self-supporting herb that thrives in its natural habitat. This plant maintains a relatively modest stature, reaching a maximum height of 1 meter. Depending on environmental conditions, it may grow as small as 0.25 meters. Such compact growth allows it to integrate seamlessly into its local ecosystem.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Eriosema chinense serves as a significant botanical source for the isolation of diverse chemical compounds. Through the analysis of plant extracts, researchers have identified that this species contains the specialized compound Eriosematin. Furthermore, investigations into its chemical profile reveal that it also contains Flemichin D. These specific constituents are often identified during the bioassay-directed fractionation of the plant's roots. Such findings highlight the complex phytochemical makeup inherent to the Eriosema genus.

Conditions

Eriosema chinense exhibits significant antifungal properties that allow it to treat the pathogen Cladosporium cucumerinum. This plant also demonstrates an effective ability to treat the yeast species Candida albicans. The medicinal value of the plant is derived from specific active constituents found within its root extracts. These bioactive compounds are responsible for the targeted inhibition of both fungal organisms. Consequently, the plant serves as a potent natural agent against these two distinct microbial threats.

Preparations

Eriosema chinense is prepared as a dichloromethane extract of the roots. This specific extraction method was utilized to examine the biological properties of the plant material. Such preparations allow for the isolation of various bioactive constituents through fractionation processes. The resulting extract can then be analyzed to identify specific compounds like polyphenols or chromones. This systematic approach is essential for determining the chemical profile of the species.

Parts used

Eriosema chinense is a plant species that possesses a root as a significant anatomical part. While research often focuses on related taxa like Eriosema tuberosum, the structural presence of roots is a common feature in this genus. In studies of similar species, the dichloromethane extract of the roots has been utilized to identify bioactive polyphenols. These root-derived compounds, such as the eriosemaones, have demonstrated notable antifungal activity against various pathogens. Understanding these plant relationships helps clarify how different members of the Eriosema genus utilize their root systems for chemical defense.