Ilex asprella
Ilex asprella · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ilex asprella is a medicinal plant known for its diverse pharmacological activities, including analgesic, antipyretic, antitumor, and cytotoxic properties. Various parts of the plant, such as the root, leaf, rhizome, and stem, are utilized in different therapeutic preparations like Canton herbal tea and EtOH extracts of dried leaves. Chemical analysis of the species has identified key compounds including Asprellic acid B, Asprellic acid C, and chlorogenic acid, though it may also contain cadmium. These components are frequently applied to treat a variety of medical conditions, ranging from sore throat and acne to enteritis and infectious hepatitis. Through different forms like RIA and specialized extracts, this plant remains a significant subject in traditional and chemical studies.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Ilex asprella is a versatile plant widely recognized by its English common name, the Rough-leaved Holly. In various regions, it is also identified by several distinct local names that reflect its botanical characteristics and cultural significance. For instance, it is known in Japanese contexts as タイワンウメモドキ and carries the name 大埔秤星樹 in other dialects. Additionally, it is referred to as 崗梅 and 梅葉冬青, illustrating the diverse linguistic identities this species holds. Understanding these various names is essential for botanists and enthusiasts tracking the plant across different territories.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Ilex asprella belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of living plants. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Aquifoliales, a group that defines its evolutionary lineage. This species is a member of the family Aquifoliaceae, which characterizes its specific botanical traits. Finally, it is nested within the genus Ilex, marking its place among its close botanical relatives.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Genus | Ilex |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ilex asprella displays a diverse geographical range that spans several distinct climatic regions across the continent. In the temperate zones of Asia, this species is widely distributed throughout China, including the southeastern territories. Its presence extends further into the temperate regions of Eastern Asia, specifically encompassing the island of Taiwan. Moving into more humid environments, the plant also thrives within the tropical landscapes of Malesia. This broad distribution is most notably seen in the Philippines, where it adapts to the lush, tropical ecosystem.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Ilex asprella demonstrates a diverse range of pharmacological activities that suggest significant therapeutic potential. Research indicates that this species contributes to antipyretic effects, effectively helping to reduce elevated body temperatures in experimental models. Furthermore, it exhibits notable analgesic properties by increasing pain thresholds in mice. The plant also contains specific compounds, such as asprellic acids, which possess potent cytotoxic capabilities against various cell lines. These combined characteristics highlight the importance of Ilex asprella in the development of antitumor agents.
Compounds
Ilex asprella is a medicinal plant characterized by a complex profile of diverse secondary metabolites. Research indicates that the species contains significant amounts of triterpenoids, which contribute to its various pharmacological properties. Within its flavonoid biosynthetic pathways, the plant also produces important compounds such as anthocyanin and aurone. Furthermore, detailed chemical analysis has identified specific p-coumaroyl triterpenes known as asprellic acid B and asprellic acid C. Together, these chemical constituents highlight the plant's significant potential for therapeutic applications.
Conditions
Ilex asprella serves as a medicinal plant used to treat various ailments, including sore throat and acne. It is frequently utilized to manage acute and chronic pharyngitis through its bioactive properties. Additionally, the plant is recognized for its ability to treat amygdalitis in traditional medicine. Its pharmacological profile also includes significant anti-influenza activities. These diverse therapeutic applications highlight its importance in treating both respiratory and skin-related conditions.
Preparations
Ilex asprella is prepared as a root that serves as a common folk medicinal material in southern China. This plant also serves as the main raw material for Canton herbal tea. Researchers have utilized the EtOH extract of dried leaves to isolate new p-coumaroyl triterpenes such as asprellic acids. Furthermore, triterpene saponins are studied within the root of Ilex asprella, a preparation referred to as RIA. Finally, the plant is one of three species used to compose Trilex, which demonstrates antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Parts used
Ilex asprella is a medicinal plant characterized by distinct chemical profiles across its various anatomical structures. Scientific analyses have focused on the unique metabolic activities found in its root, leaf, stem, and rhizome. Research into the plant's transcriptome reveals that different biosynthetic pathways, such as flavonoid production, vary significantly between the leaves and the stem. Furthermore, studies comparing the root, stem, and rhizome show a high degree of similarity in their chemical fingerprints and anti-inflammatory effects. Understanding these specific relationships between the plant's parts is essential for the quality evaluation and effective use of Ilex asprella in traditional medicine.