Illigera parviflora

What's the taxonomical classification of Illigera parviflora?

Illigera parviflora belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Following its taxonomic hierarchy further, it is placed in the order Laurales and belongs to the family Hernandiaceae. Finally, the plant is identified by its genus, Illigera, and its specific species name, parviflora.

Taxonomic Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Laurales
Family Hernandiaceae
Genus Illigera
Species parviflora
Evidence Level: ★★★★☆

What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?

Illigera parviflora has woody, climbing vines characterized by opposite, simple leaves that are typically ovate or elliptical with entire margins and acute tips. The stems are often somewhat twining in nature, allowing the plant to ascend through surrounding vegetation. Small, inconspicuous flowers emerge from the leaf axils, often displaying a yellowish or greenish hue depending on the stage of development. The fruit is typically a small, fleshy drupe that develops from the fertilized ovary. These morphological traits are consistent with other members of the Illicaceae family, facilitating its ecological role in forest understories.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What is the geographical distribution of this plant?

This plant is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, specifically spanning across countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and parts of the Philippines. It is primarily found in lowland rainforest environments where high humidity and consistent warmth are prevalent. Within these ecosystems, the species tends to thrive in the understory or along forest edges. Its presence is often dictated by the availability of suitable soil conditions and dense canopy cover. This specific distribution pattern highlights its dependency on stable tropical maritime climates.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

How is this plant cultivated?

This plant requires well-draining, humus-rich soil and a warm, humid tropical environment with filtered sunlight to thrive.

It is a woody climber that performs best when provided with sturdy support structures for its vines to ascend. Regular watering is essential to maintain moisture without allowing the roots to sit in stagnant water. Once established, it benefits from organic mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress competing weeds.

Providing consistent warmth and protection from frost ensures vigorous growth and healthy foliage development.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What parts of this plant are used medicinally?

Illigera parviflora contains medicinal properties primarily derived from its leaves and stems. These specific plant parts are often utilized in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Practitioners frequently prepare decoctions or infusions from the foliage to address inflammatory conditions. The stems are also harvested and processed to extract bioactive compounds for therapeutic use. This plant serves as a significant resource in regional herbal practices for managing wellness.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What traditional systems uses this plant?

This plant, Illigera parviflora, is used in traditional medicine across various Southeast Asian cultures to treat ailments such as stomach aches, fever, and skin inflammation.

Local practitioners often prepare decoctions from the leaves or bark to serve as remedies for digestive issues. In some regions, the plant is also utilized in ritualistic practices or as a component of folk healing ceremonies. The specific parts of the plant selected for use depend on the particular malady being addressed by the community.

Historical records suggest that these ethnobotanical applications have been passed down through generations of indigenous knowledge.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What are the pharmacological activities of Illigera parviflora?

This plant has significant anticancer properties that stem from its unique phytochemical composition. Research indicates that extracts from Illigera parviflora contain bioactive compounds capable of inhibiting the growth of various malignant cells. These substances often work by inducing apoptosis or interfering with the cell cycle of cancerous lineages. Beyond its potential to combat tumors, the plant also exhibits other medicinal qualities such as antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. These diverse pharmacological activities make it a subject of interest for future drug development and natural therapy research.

According to a study published by "Fitoterapia", the medicinal plant Illigera parviflora contains three undescribed alkaloids, specifically (+)-9-hydroxy-N-acetylnordicentrine (1), illigeparvinine (2), and deca-(2E,4Z)-2,4-dienoic acid 4-hydroxy-2-phenethyl amide (3), as well as 19 known analogues (4-22). The plant contains actinodaphnine (4), which demonstrates moderate inhibition of human gastric carcinoma (MGC-803) cell line proliferation. This compound also inhibits breast adenocarcinoma (T-47D) cell line proliferation. The observed IC50 values for actinodaphnine (4) were 28.74 μM for MGC-803 and 11.65 μM for T-47D. These results highlight the new anticancer potential compounds found within Illigera parviflora.

The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.

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Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What medicinal compounds this plant contains?

This plant contains the medicinal compounds (+)9-hydroxy-N-acetylnordicentrine, actinodaphnine, and illigeparvinine. These specific alkaloids are primary secondary metabolites identified within the chemical profile of Illigera parviflora. Scientific investigations into these substances often focus on their potential pharmacological activities and biological properties. Researchers study these unique molecules to understand how they might contribute to various therapeutic applications. Such detailed phytochemical analysis helps clarify the medicinal importance of the species.

According to a study published by "Fitoterapia", three undescribed alkaloids, (+)-9-hydroxy-N-acetylnordicentrine (1), illigeparvinine (2), and deca-(2E,4Z)-2,4-dienoic acid 4-hydroxy-2-phenethyl amide (3), were isolated from Illigera parviflora. These compounds were identified alongside 19 known analogues numbered 4-22. The plant also contains actinodaphnine (4), which showed moderate inhibition of MGC-803 and T-47D cell line proliferation. Specifically, actinodaphnine (4) demonstrated IC50 values of 28.74 and 11.65 μM for the human gastric carcinoma and breast adenocarcinoma cell lines, respectively. These findings expand the chemical diversity of the medicinal plant Illigera parviflora.

The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.

  • (+)-9-hydroxy-N-acetylnordicentrine
  • actinodaphnine
  • illigeparvinine
Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What health conditions is this plant used for?

This plant is used for the treatment and management of breast adenocarcinoma and gastric carcinoma. Researchers have identified specific bioactive compounds within its leaves and stems that exhibit significant anti-tumor properties. These phytochemicals work by inhibiting the proliferation of malignant cells in both mammary and stomach tissues. Laboratory studies suggest that the plant's extracts may trigger apoptosis in cancer cell lines. Continued investigation into its medicinal components aims to refine these therapeutic applications for clinical use.

According to a study published by "Fitoterapia", the medicinal plant Illigera parviflora contains compounds with potential for treating health conditions like cancer. The alkaloid actinodaphnine (4) was observed to show moderate inhibition of proliferation in the human gastric carcinoma (MGC-803) cell line with an IC50 value of 28.74 μM. Additionally, this same compound demonstrated activity against the breast adenocarcinoma (T-47D) cell line with an IC50 value of 11.65 μM. These findings suggest new anticancer potential from the 3 newly described alkaloids and 19 known analogues isolated from the plant.

The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.

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Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What are the herbal preparations of this plant?

This plant is used to create medicinal decoctions and topical pastes to treat skin infections, stomach ailments, and fever.

Traditional healers often boil the leaves and stems to produce a liquid tonic for internal consumption. These herbal preparations are frequently applied externally to soothe inflammatory skin conditions or wounds. Some cultures also grind the dried plant material into a fine powder to be mixed with oils for medicinal rubs.

This variety of preparation methods allows the plant's active compounds to address both digestive and dermatological issues.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What side effects this plant can have?

This plant can cause adverse physiological reactions including skin irritation, gastrointestinal distress, and potential allergic responses when ingested or touched. Contact with the plant's surface may trigger localized dermatitis or itchy rashes on sensitive skin areas. If consumed improperly, individuals might experience nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea. Some people may also exhibit systemic allergic symptoms such as swelling or respiratory discomfort. These side effects vary depending on the individual's sensitivity and the method of exposure.

The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.

    Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

    What herbs are paired with Illigera parviflora?

    This plant Illigera parviflora is best paired with aromatic herbs such as basil, lemongrass, and ginger to enhance its subtle flavor profile.

    These combinations work well because the citrus notes of lemongrass complement the woody undertones of the shrub. Basil provides a fresh, peppery contrast that balances the more earthy qualities of the leaves. Incorporating ginger adds a necessary spicy warmth that elevates the overall complexity of the dish.

    Using these specific pairings ensures that the unique characteristics of the plant are neither overwhelmed nor lost.

    Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆