Eupatorium japonicum
Eupatorium japonicum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (6 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eupatorium japonicum is a botanical species recognized for its significant pharmacological potential and diverse therapeutic applications. Research indicates that its chemical profile is rich in beneficial flavonoids, which contribute to its various biological activities. Various preparations, including crude, ethanolic, and aerial part extracts, have been utilized in studies, alongside innovative EJ-based gold nanoparticles (EJ-AuNPs). These substances demonstrate promising medicinal properties such as antibacterial, anticancer, antiangiogenic, and anthelmintic effects. Furthermore, the plant is studied for its ability to combat conditions like influenza, nausea, and anorexia through its antioxidant capabilities.
- Synonyms
- Eupatorium Chinense Var. Simplicifolium · Eupatorium Tozanense · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Eupatorium japonicum is a versatile plant recognized by a wide variety of regional and descriptive common names. In English-speaking contexts, it is frequently referred to as fragrant eupatorium due to its pleasant scent. The species also holds significant cultural importance in Japan, where it is known as fuji-bakama or フジバカマ. Other linguistic variations include the name Yapon asırqalotu and the Arabic designation يوباتوريوم جابونيكوم. Regardless of the name used, this botanical specimen remains a distinct and notable member of its genus.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Eupatorium japonicum is a botanical species known to encompass several different taxonomic names within its historical classification. It is frequently identified by the synonym Eupatorium angustilobum in various scientific contexts. The plant is also associated with Eupatorium caespitosum and the name Eupatorium fortunei. Furthermore, its complex lineage includes variations such as Eupatorium chinense var. simplicifolium. Finally, the species is linked to Eupatorium chinense var. tripartitum, illustrating the broad range of synonyms used to describe it.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Eupatorium japonicum is a distinct species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this botanical realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is a member of the order Asterales, which connects it to a diverse group of flowering species. Further refinement shows that it belongs to the genus Eupatorium. Ultimately, this lineage places the plant firmly within the widely recognized family Asteraceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eupatorium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Eupatorium japonicum is a resilient species widely distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate region. Within China, its presence is remarkably widespread, spanning from the North-Central territories to the lush landscapes of the Southeast. It also thrives in the South-Central provinces, demonstrating a high degree of adaptability to various local climates. The plant's range extends further north into the expansive reaches of Inner Mongolia. Finally, its biological footprint reaches the tropical reaches of Hainan, confirming its diverse ecological reach.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eupatorium japonicum is a self-supporting herb that grows with a sturdy and upright structure. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 2 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Depending on the specific environmental conditions, its stature can vary significantly. While it may occasionally be found at a minimum height of 0.5 meters, it often establishes itself more robustly. Most specimens tend to maintain a more substantial minimum height of around 1.25 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Eupatorium japonicum, specifically represented by species such as Eupatorium fortunei, exhibits a diverse range of significant medicinal properties. Research indicates that this plant possesses potent antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities. Furthermore, it demonstrates notable anticancer potential through its antiangiogenic and antimetastatic activities. In addition to these therapeutic effects, certain studies highlight its efficacy as an anthelmintic agent. These multifaceted biological activities underscore the plant's value in various medicinal and pharmacological applications.
Compounds
Eupatorium japonicum is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse chemical profile, which includes the presence of beneficial flavonoids. Research into its composition has also identified several specific pyrrolizidine alkaloids within the species. These include the compounds intermedine, intermedine N-oxide, and lycopsamine N-oxide. Furthermore, the plant is known to contain 7-acetylintermedine N-oxide. Understanding these complex relationships is essential for exploring the plant's potential applications in modern pharmacology and nanotechnology.
Conditions
Eupatorium japonicum, referred to in the research as Eupatorium fortunei, is traditionally used to treat anorexia and various ailments associated with "pathogenic dampness." The plant demonstrates significant anthelmintic efficacy against the parasite Dactylogyrus intermedius (Monogenea) in goldfish. Furthermore, specific bioactive constituents within the plant exhibit an inhibitory effect on NO production. These properties contribute to the plant's broader potential as a source of effective anti-inflammatory agents.
Preparations
Eupatorium japonicum is utilized in various forms, including being prepared as prescriptions for the traditional treatment of inflammatory diseases. Researchers have also focused on its application in nanotechnology by preparing EJ-based gold nanoparticles (EJ-AuNPs) through green synthesis. The plant is further processed into different formats such as crude extract and ethanolic extract for various studies. Additionally, preparations can be derived from the aerial part extract to isolate specific bioactive constituents. These diverse preparation methods highlight the plant's versatility in both traditional medicine and modern pharmacological research.