Ilex latifolia
Ilex latifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ilex latifolia is a botanical species primarily utilized for its medicinal properties found within its leaves. Through the use of aqueous extracts of dried leaves and specific preparations like Trilex, this plant offers significant therapeutic potential. It is chemically characterized by the presence of 3,5-DICQA, a compound that contributes to its biological efficacy. These components provide essential analgesic, antioxidant, and antipyretic activities. Consequently, the plant is frequently employed as a natural remedy to alleviate conditions such as headaches and pharyngitis.
- Synonyms
- Ilex Latifolia Var. Variegata · Ilex Tarajo · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Ilex latifolia is a versatile evergreen known by several distinct names across different languages and regions. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently recognized by its common name, Lusterleaf Holly. Moving into Central Europe, the plant is referred to as cezmína širokolistá in Czech and Tarajo-Stechpalme in German. It also carries the designation Houx à larges feuilles within French botanical contexts. Finally, it is identified as Plačialapis bugienis in certain specialized classifications.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ilex latifolia is a versatile plant that is recognized by several different botanical synonyms in scientific literature. Depending on the specific classification used, it may be referred to as Ilex macrophylla or Ilex tarajo. Taxonomic variations also include specific forms such as Ilex latifolia f. variegata and Ilex latifolia var. variegata. These diverse names often reflect different regional studies or variations in leaf patterns. Understanding these synonymous relationships is essential for accurate identification in botanical research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ilex latifolia belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, serving as a fascinating subject within the natural world. This species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and falls within the specific order Aquifoliales. It is further organized into the family Aquifoliaceae, which highlights its unique botanical characteristics. Within this family, the plant is identified by its specific genus, Ilex. Together, these taxonomic relationships provide a clear understanding of the biological identity of Ilex latifolia.
| 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 latifolia is a plant species with a broad distribution across various temperate regions of Asia. Its natural range extends significantly through China, specifically within the South-Central and Southeast territories. In addition to its presence in mainland China, the species can also be found throughout Eastern Asia. Notably, this plant is established within the unique ecosystems of Japan. These diverse locations highlight the adaptability of the species across different Asian landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ilex latifolia grows in a tree-like form, establishing a sturdy and impressive presence in the landscape. This plant is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its structure independently as it matures.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Ilex latifolia demonstrates a diverse range of pharmacological properties that contribute to its medicinal value. Research indicates that this species possesses significant analgesic activity, notably increasing pain thresholds in experimental models. Furthermore, the plant exhibits antipyretic effects by effectively reducing elevated body temperatures. Studies also highlight its potent antioxidant capabilities, which are linked to the stability of caffeoylquinic acid derivatives. Together, these biological activities suggest that Ilex latifolia holds great potential for treating inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress.
Compounds
Conditions
Ilex latifolia effectively treats hypoxia-induced neuronal cell death by protecting against ischemic apoptotic brain damage. This plant also treats antioxidant reactions through the presence of stable caffeoylquinic acid derivatives. Its traditional medicinal applications allow it to treat clearing heat and removing toxin within the body. Furthermore, Ilex latifolia treats the elevation of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) to prevent neurotoxicity. Finally, the plant treats the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through its potent anti-oxidative actions.
Preparations
Ilex latifolia serves as one of the three constituent species used to prepare the medicinal formulation known as Trilex. This specific preparation has demonstrated antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties suitable for treating pharyngitis. Additionally, Ilex latifolia is prepared as aqueous extracts of dried leaves to create bitter tea beverages. These aqueous extracts undergo antioxidant reactions that generate free radicals derived from caffeoylquinic acids. Such chemical processes within the leaf extracts contribute significantly to the overall antioxidant chemistry of the resulting beverage.
Parts used
Ilex latifolia is a plant species that offers significant biological benefits through its harvested leaves. Research into bitter tea shows that the leaves contain caffeoylquinic acids, which contribute to the beverage's potent antioxidant properties. Beyond antioxidant activity, the leaves also serve as a source for complex heteropolysaccharides such as ILP50-2. This specific polysaccharide has demonstrated remarkable immunomodulatory effects by enhancing macrophage phagocytosis and stimulating cytokine release. Ultimately, the diverse chemical components found within the foliage of Ilex latifolia highlight its importance in both medicinal and nutritional applications.