Hypericum patulum
What's the taxonomical classification of Hypericum patulum?
Hypericum patulum belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida, it is positioned in the subclass Magnoliidae and falls under the order Malpighiales. This plant is a member of the family Hypericaceae and is further categorized into the genus Hypericum, ultimately reaching its specific designation as the species patulum.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
| Species | patulum |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Hypericum patulum has woody, spreading branches characterized by small, opposite, elliptical leaves that are typically glabrous and possess translucent glandular dots. The plant often exhibits a shrubby growth habit with stems that may turn reddish as they mature. Its inflorescence consists of small, yellow, five-petaled flowers that emerge from the axils of the foliage. Numerous prominent stamens extend from the center of the blossoms, giving the flowers a delicate, airy appearance. The fruit develops into small, dehiscent capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the mountainous regions of central and southern China, specifically inhabiting provinces such as Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou. It typically grows at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level. These populations are often found in moist environments like forest edges, shrublands, or grassy slopes. The specific terrain within these high-altitude zones provides the necessary drainage and light for the species to thrive. Its range remains relatively localized to these specific East Asian montane habitats.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-draining soil, full sun exposure, and moderate watering to thrive in its cultivation process.
It is typically grown in rocky or sandy substrates to prevent root rot caused by excess moisture. Regular pruning during the growing season helps maintain its compact structure and encourages vigorous new growth. Once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant and can withstand various environmental conditions.
Careful monitoring for pests ensures the health and longevity of the specimen.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Hypericum patulum is used medicinally through the application of its flowers, leaves, roots, buds, and fruits. The bright yellow flowers and green leaves are frequently processed into oils or tinctures to treat skin irritations and inflammatory conditions. Medicinal preparations may also incorporate the roots to address internal ailments through decoctions. The young buds are sometimes harvested for their concentrated bioactive compounds during specific stages of growth. Additionally, the small fruits can be utilized in traditional remedies to support overall wellness.
According to a study published by "Pharmaceutica acta Helvetiae", flower extracts of Hypericum patulum were used to inhibit the binding of [3H]flumazenil to rat brain benzodiazepine binding sites of the GABAA-receptor in vitro. These extracts demonstrated an IC50 value of 13.2 micrograms/ml. Single constituents like hypericin, quercetin, luteolin, rutin, hyperoside, quercitrin, and 13, II8-biapigenin did not inhibit binding up to concentrations of 1 microM. In contrast, the constituent amentoflavone revealed an IC50 = 14.9 +/- 1.9 nM on benzodiazepine binding in vitro.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- flower
- leaf
- root
- buds
- fruit
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, known as Hypericum patulum, has historically been utilized in various traditional medicinal practices to address skin ailments and inflammatory conditions.
Indigenous groups in certain regions employed its leaves and flowers to create topical poultices for healing wounds and soothing irritations. The plant was often integrated into local herbal remedies believed to possess mild sedative or restorative properties. Practitioners frequently prepared infusions or oils from the botanical material to treat superficial injuries.
These historical applications reflect a long-standing reliance on the plant's chemical constituents for basic healthcare needs.
What are the pharmacological activities of Hypericum patulum?
This plant has anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, clearing heat, detoxifying, and relaxing the liver pharmacological activities. Its chemical constituents contribute to reducing systemic inflammation and modulating mood to provide antidepressant effects. In traditional medicinal applications, it is utilized for its ability to clear heat and detoxify the body from internal toxins. Additionally, the plant supports physiological balance by helping in relaxing the liver. These combined properties make it a multifaceted subject for pharmacological study.
According to a study published by "Chemistry & biodiversity", the fruit of Hypericum patulum yielded six new constituents, including four new xanthone glucosides labeled 1, 2, 3, and 4. These specific glucosides are 3-hydroxy-2-methoxyxanthone-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), 4,8-dihydroxy-2-methoxyxanthone-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), 2-methoxyxanthone-5-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), and 4-hydroxy-2-methoxyxanthone-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4). The plant also provided a new phenolic acid, 4,4'-dihydroxy-3,3'-imino-di-benzoic acid monomethyl ester (5), and a new isoquinoline, methyl 6-hydroxy-1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-4-carboxylate (6). All isolated compounds were evaluated for their inhibitory effect against LPS-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 cells. Among these, compound 2 and compound 3 exhibited moderate inhibitory activity against NO production.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-inflammatory
- antidepressant
- clearing heat
- detoxifying
- relaxing the liver
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds Hyparillum A, Hyparillum B, Hyperpatone A, Hypulatones A, and Hypulatones B. These specific chemical constituents are characteristic of the Hypericum patulum species. Researchers analyze these compounds to understand the biological activity of the plant. The presence of these diverse molecules suggests a complex phytochemical profile. Studying these substances provides insight into the potential therapeutic uses of the vegetation.
According to a study published by "Chinese journal of natural medicines", two previously unidentified polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs) named Hyparillums A (1) and B (2) were isolated from Hypericum patulum Thunb. Hyparillum A is the first PPAP with eight-carbon rings featuring an unprecedented 6/6/5/6/6/5/6/4 octocyclic system based on a heptacyclo[10.8.1.1^1,10.0^3,8.0^8,21.0^12,19.0^14,17]docosane core. Hyparillum B features a novel heptacyclic architecture (6/6/5/6/6/5/5) based on a hexacyclo[9.6.1.1^1,9.0^3,7.0^7,18.0^11,16]nonadecane motif. These compounds demonstrated inhibitory effects on the proliferation of murine splenocytes stimulated by anti-CD3/anti-CD28 monoclonal antibodies and lipopolysaccharide. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for these substances ranged from 6.13 ± 0.86 to 12.69 ± 1.31 μmol·L^-1.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Hyparillum B
- Hyparillums A
- Hyperpatone A
- Hypulatones A
- Hypulatones B
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating bruises, excision wounds, incision wounds, inflammation, and pain. Its medicinal properties are primarily utilized to accelerate the healing process of various skin injuries. When applied topically, it helps reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with localized inflammation. The plant also serves as an effective remedy for managing the physical pain resulting from tissue damage. Furthermore, its soothing effects are beneficial for repairing both open incisions and larger excision wounds.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", the whole Hypericum patulum Thunb. plant is utilized in traditional medicine for its properties of clearing heat, detoxifying, soothing meridians, relaxing the liver, and stopping bleeding. In folk medicine, it is frequently used to treat hepatitis, colds, tonsillitis, and bruises. Phytochemical investigation of a 30% ethanol extract of the fresh ripe fruits resulted in the isolation of two new pinane-type monoterpenoid glycosides 1-2, named patulumside E-F. Additionally, three new chain-shaped monoterpenoid glycosides 3-5, named patulumside G-H, J, were identified. This research represents the inaugural comprehensive phytochemical study of Hypericum patulum.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- bruises
- excision wound
- incision wound
- inflammation
- pain
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create various medicinal preparations including a 30% ethanol extract, flower extracts, essential oil, herbal tea, and ointment. Practitioners often utilize the concentrated flower extracts to harness the specific bioactive compounds found in the blooms. The essential oil provides a potent aromatic form for targeted applications, while the herbal tea offers a traditional method for internal consumption. For topical relief, the plant material is frequently processed into a soothing ointment. Each of these diverse preparations serves a specific therapeutic purpose in herbal medicine.
According to a study published by "Pharmaceutica acta Helvetiae", flower extracts of Hypericum patulum efficiently inhibited the binding of [3H]flumazenil to rat brain benzodiazepine binding sites of the GABAA-receptor in vitro. This specific plant showed an IC50 value of 13.2 micrograms/ml during the testing process. While single constituents like hypericin, quercetin, luteolin, rutin, hyperoside, quercitrin, and the biflavone 13, II8-biapigenin did not inhibit binding up to concentrations of 1 microM, amentoflavone revealed an IC50 = 14.9 +/- 1.9 nM. Comparative HPLC analyses of hypericin and amentoflavone in the extracts revealed a possible correlation between the amentoflavone concentration and the inhibition of flumazenil binding.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- 30% ethanol extract
- Flower extracts
- essential oil
- herbal tea
- ointment
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause photosensitivity, gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, and potential interactions with various prescription medications. When ingested or applied, the chemical compounds in the plant may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to rashes or burns. Some individuals also experience digestive issues such as nausea or abdominal discomfort after consumption. Additionally, the plant's constituents can interfere with how the liver processes drugs, potentially reducing the effectiveness of medical treatments. These physiological responses make it important to exercise caution when using this species.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Hypericum patulum?
This plant Hypericum patulum pairs most effectively with aromatic herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and lemon balm to enhance its subtle floral profile.
These combinations are frequently utilized in herbal tea blends to balance the plant's specific astringent qualities with soothing notes. When used in topical salves, pairing it with calendula or chamomile can provide a synergistic effect for skin soothing. Gardeners often plant it alongside sage or thyme to create a diverse pollinator habitat that supports various beneficial insects.
Such pairings allow for both culinary exploration and functional medicinal applications.