Helicteres angustifolia
Helicteres angustifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Helicteres angustifolia is a botanical species recognized for its diverse therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. The plant contains significant bioactive compounds, including helicteric acid, helicterilic acid, oleanolic acid, and betulinic acid. Primarily utilizing the root and stem, various preparations such as Kang-chih-ma are developed to harness these chemical properties. These constituents are specifically studied for their potent analgesic activities to alleviate pain. Consequently, this plant serves as a vital resource in the search for natural methods to manage discomfort.
- Synonyms
- Helicteres Parviflora · Helicteres Salicifolia · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Root · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Helicteres angustifolia is a versatile plant recognized by a wide array of names across different cultures and languages. In English-speaking regions, it is frequently referred to by its descriptive common name, the Narrow-leaved Screwtree. Its linguistic diversity continues with the specific designations of Siauralapis laupis and Tổ kén đực. Moving into East Asian contexts, the species is known as ヤンバルゴマ in Japan. Finally, it is also identified by the name 山芝麻, showcasing the global variety of its nomenclature.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Helicteres angustifolia is a complex species that encompasses several distinct botanical varieties. Taxonomists have identified various synonyms for this plant, including the specific variety acuminatissima. Other recognized variations within its classification include gaudichaudii and glaucoides. Furthermore, the species is linked to the varieties meyeniana and naumanniana through established scientific records. Understanding these diverse relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Helicteres angustifolia belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, marking its place among the diverse world of living vegetation. Within this expansive group, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Malvales, a lineage that connects it to many significant flowering plants. As a member of the family Malvaceae, it shares botanical characteristics with a wide array of related species. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its specific placement within the genus Helicteres.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Helicteres |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Helicteres angustifolia is primarily distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate regions, showing a significant presence across various parts of China. Its range extends specifically into South-Central and Southeast China, as well as the island of Hainan. Beyond the Chinese mainland, the species is also found within Eastern Asia, including the Nansei-shoto islands. Additionally, the plant is documented growing in the unique environment of Taiwan. These diverse locations highlight the wide geographic footprint of the species within its temperate Asian habitat.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Helicteres angustifolia is a self-supporting shrub characterized by its compact and sturdy growth form. This resilient plant typically reaches a maximum height of 2 meters, making it a manageable addition to various landscapes. Its structure allows it to maintain a consistent presence without the need for external support.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Helicteres angustifolia, commonly known in Taiwan as Kang-chih-ma, is a significant folk herbal drug derived from its dried roots and stems. This plant is recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and tumor inhibitory effects. Notably, the species possesses documented analgesic activity, making it valuable for pain management. Recent scientific research has utilized high-performance liquid chromatography to identify and quantify specific lupane-type triterpenoids within the plant. These analytical methods ensure the quality and consistency of the medicinal constituents found in the heartwood and bark.
Compounds
Helicteres angustifolia is a medicinal plant that has long been utilized in Chinese traditional medicine for its various pharmacological benefits. This species is characterized by its rich profile of active chemicals, most notably several important triterpenoid saponins. Among these key components are betulinic acid and oleanolic acid, which contribute to the plant's therapeutic effects. Furthermore, the plant contains unique acylated triterpenoids such as helicteric acid and helicterilic acid. These specific compounds are considered characteristic elements of the species and are relatively rare among other plants.
Conditions
Helicteres angustifolia possesses a diverse range of pharmacological benefits, including the ability to treat anti-inflammatory conditions. The plant is also recognized for its capacity to treat analgesic needs and provides effective anti-bacterial properties. Furthermore, its medicinal value is highlighted by its ability to treat anti-tumor growth through its inhibitory effects. Finally, the plant serves as a biological resource that can be used to treat anti-viral issues.
Preparations
Helicteres angustifolia is prepared as Kang-chih-ma, a traditional folk herbal drug commonly used in Taiwan. This preparation consists specifically of the dried roots and stems of the plant. As Kang-chih-ma, it is recognized for possessing significant antidotal, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial effects. Furthermore, the plant material is known to function as a type of tumor inhibitory agent. Researchers utilize high-performance liquid chromatography to evaluate the quality of these specific medicinal components.
Parts used
Helicteres angustifolia is a plant species recognized for its significant medicinal value in traditional practices. In Taiwan, the dried roots and stems of this plant are known collectively as Kang-chih-ma. This herbal drug is utilized for its diverse biological properties, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial effects. Scientific analysis has specifically focused on the presence of lupane-type triterpenoids within these botanical components. Researchers have even successfully quantified these active constituents within both the heartwood and the bark of the roots to ensure quality control.