Fritillaria thunbergii

Fritillaria thunbergii · Accepted scientific name

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

Fritillaria thunbergii, commonly known in traditional medicine as Zhe Beimu, is a botanical specimen valued for its diverse pharmacological properties. The plant contains significant chemical compounds, including peimine, peiminine, Al, and diastase, which drive its biological effects. It exhibits a wide range of activities, serving as an ACE-inhibitor, additive, analgesic, and androgenic agent. Clinically, it is frequently utilized for its antitussive and expectorant qualities to treat various types of coughs. Furthermore, research continues to explore its potential applications in addressing complex conditions such as HIV.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Uvularia Cirrhosa · Fritillaria Xiaobeimu · 5 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Liliaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Fritillaria thunbergii is a distinctive plant known by several different names across various regions and languages. Commonly referred to as the Zhejiang fritillary, it is also widely recognized simply as a fritillary. In certain contexts, it carries the specific common name Chiết bối mẫu. International enthusiasts may also identify it as the Thunberg-Schachblume or the Thunbergi püvilill. These diverse names reflect the plant's broad botanical significance and cultural presence.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Fritillaria thunbergii is a botanical species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several recognized synonyms. Researchers have identified various names for this plant, including Fritillaria austroanhuiensis and Fritillaria chekiangensis. Additionally, it has been classified under the names Fritillaria collicola and Fritillaria thunbergii var. chekiangensis. The plant's classification also encompasses the name Fritillaria verticillata var. thunbergii within certain botanical contexts. Navigating these overlapping identities is essential for accurate scientific identification and study.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Fritillaria thunbergii is a distinctive species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic lineage continues through the order Liliales, which defines many of its structural characteristics. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the Liliaceae family, showcasing its close ties to other bulbous species. Ultimately, it resides within the genus Fritillaria, marking its unique place in the natural world.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Liliales
Family Liliaceae
Genus Fritillaria

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Fritillaria thunbergii is a resilient species with a wide distribution across the Asia-Temperate region. Its presence can be found in the vast landscapes of Central Asia, specifically within Kazakhstan. In East Asia, this plant is commonly documented throughout Korea and Japan. It also thrives in various parts of China, ranging from the Xinjiang region to the southeastern provinces. This diverse geographical range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to different environments across the continent.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Fritillaria thunbergii is a self-supporting plant that maintains a sturdy structure within its natural habitat. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 0.8 meters during its peak growing season. Depending on environmental conditions, its stature generally ranges from a minimum of 0.5 meters to 0.65 meters. Such consistent growth patterns make it a predictable and elegant addition to any botanical collection.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Fritillaria thunbergii is a plant notable for containing several important chemical compounds used in pharmacological studies. Specifically, this species contains peimine, peiminine, and zhebeinine, which serve as key markers for quality assessment. Scientific research has utilized advanced techniques like RP-HPLC-ELSD to simultaneously determine the presence and concentration of these specific alkaloids. The ability to quantify peimine, peiminine, and zhebeinine allows researchers to evaluate the efficacy of different plant varieties and habitats. Ultimately, understanding these internal relationships is essential for the successful breeding and quantitative determination of high-quality Fritillaria thunbergii drugs.

Conditions

Fritillaria thunbergii serves as a medicinal plant that provides antitussive and expectorant effects. Research indicates that specific cultivation treatments can optimize its ability to provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Additionally, this species is recognized in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential properties in the treatment of HIV. The plant's alkaloids also demonstrate significant biological activity, such as the ability to induce apoptosis of DLD1 cancer cells.

Preparations

Fritillaria thunbergii serves as a vital botanical source that is prepared as Fritillaria drug. Scientific methods such as HPLC-ELSD are utilized to ensure the precise quantitative determination of components within this specific drug. Furthermore, the plant is recognized in herbological studies as being prepared as Zhe Beimu. This classification helps distinguish it from other medicinal varieties like Jia Beimu or Chuan Beimu. Understanding these preparation relationships is essential for maintaining historical accuracy and avoiding confusion in contemporary pharmacopoeia.

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