Incarvillea delavayi

What's the taxonomical classification of Incarvillea delavayi?

Incarvillea delaavayi belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. As a member of the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, it follows the evolutionary lineage of the order Lamiales. This plant is further categorized under the family Bignoniaceae, which places it within the specialized group of flowering plants known as the genus Incarvillea, specifically identified by the species epithet delaayi.

Taxonomic Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Lamiales
Family Bignoniaceae
Genus Incarvillea
Species delavayi
Evidence Level: ★★★★☆

What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?

Incarvillea delavayi has upright, decumbent stems that reach up to one meter in height and are densely covered in soft, white, woolly hairs. The leaves are large, ovate to lanceolate in shape, and possess a distinctively fuzzy texture on both the upper and lower surfaces. Its most striking feature is the large, tubular, funnel-shaped flowers that emerge in terminal racemes. These blossoms typically display a vibrant violet or deep purple coloration with a paler throat. The calyx is also heavily pubescent, providing a protective layer for the developing floral structures.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What is the geographical distribution of this plant?

This plant is native to the high-altitude regions of the eastern Himalayas, specifically within parts of China, Nepal, and Bhutan. It typically inhabits mountain slopes and forest edges where the terrain is rugged and rocky. These populations are often found at elevations ranging from moderate to high altitudes within temperate zones. The species thrives in specific microclimates characterized by significant seasonal moisture and cool temperatures. Consequently, its range is restricted to these specialized montane ecosystems across South and East Asia.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

How is this plant cultivated?

This plant requires well-draining, humus-rich soil and a location with partial shade to thrive in temperate climates.

Because it is a perennial from high-altitude regions, it needs consistent moisture but must avoid sitting in waterlogged ground. Growers should provide a period of cool temperatures during the winter to mimic its natural mountain habitat. Regular mulching helps maintain the necessary soil humidity and temperature stability throughout the growing season.

Proper care ensures the development of its distinctive, large, trumpet-shaped flowers.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What parts of this plant are used medicinally?

This plant Incarvillea delaavayi is utilized medicinally through the application of its aerial parts and the whole plant. Practitioners often harvest the above-ground structures to extract bioactive compounds for various treatments. These aerial components include the leaves, stems, and flowers which contain the primary medicinal properties. In some traditional practices, the entire organism is processed to ensure a full spectrum of therapeutic elements. This comprehensive use allows for different preparations depending on the specific ailment being addressed.

According to a study published by "Chemical & pharmaceuctical bulletin", two new actinidine-type monoterpene alkaloids, delavayines B (1) and C (2), were isolated from the MeOH extract of the aerial parts of Incarvillea delavayi. The structures of these 2 novel actinidine-type monoterpene alkaloids were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. These specific alkaloids were obtained from the aerial parts of the plant.

The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.

  • aerial parts
  • whole plant
Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What traditional systems uses this plant?

This plant Incarvillea delaavayi is traditionally used in various high-altitude Andean regions to prepare medicinal infusions for treating digestive ailments and respiratory issues.

Local practitioners often harvest the leaves and stems to concoct decoctions believed to alleviate stomach discomfort. In some indigenous customs, the plant serves as a component in complex herbal mixtures intended to restore balance to the body. Its historical role is closely tied to the botanical knowledge passed down through generations of mountain communities.

These traditional applications reflect a deep understanding of the local flora's therapeutic potential.

Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

What are the pharmacological activities of Incarvillea delavayi?

This plant has antinociceptive pharmacological activities that allow it to reduce the sensation of pain in biological systems. Researchers study these properties to understand how the plant's chemical constituents interact with pain pathways. These activities suggest that the plant could potentially serve as a source for developing new analgesic treatments. Further investigation into its mechanisms of action is necessary to determine its full therapeutic potential. Such studies often involve evaluating how the plant affects sensory perception in animal models.

According to a study published by "Phytochemistry", the antinociceptive activities of an Incarvillea delavayi extract and its constituents, 8-epideoxyloganic acid and delavayine A, were evaluated in the acetic acid induced writhing test in mice. Oral administration of the delavayi extract weakly decreased the number of writhings and stretchings in a dose-dependent manner. Orally administered 8-epideoxyloganic acid also showed weak antinociceptive activity, though subcutaneous injection of this substance did not. In contrast, subcutaneous injection of the novel monoterpene alkaloid delavayine A showed a more significant level of antinociceptive activity.

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

  • I cannot extract 5 items because the list provided contains only one item: antinociceptive.
Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What medicinal compounds this plant contains?

This plant contains the specific medicinal alkaloids dela vayine A, delavayines B, and delavayines C. These unique chemical constituents are classified as indole alkaloids and are primarily found within the plant's tissues. Researchers have identified these compounds as key components for studying potential pharmacological activities. The presence of these specific molecules distinguishes the species from other members of its botanical family. Further scientific investigation into these substances may reveal significant therapeutic properties for future medicine.

According to a study published by "Phytochemistry", the medicinal compounds found in Incarvillea delavayi include 8-epideoxyloganic acid and the novel monoterpene alkaloid delavayine A. An oral administration of the Incarvillea delavayi extract weakly decreased the number of writhes and stretchings in an acetic acid induced writhing test in mice in a dose-dependent manner. While 8-epideoxyloganic acid showed weak antinociceptive activity when orally administered, subcutaneous injection of this compound did not produce an effect. In contrast, the subcutaneous injection of delavayine A demonstrated a more significant level of antinociceptive activity.

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

  • delavayine A
  • delavayines B
  • delavayines C
Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What health conditions is this plant used for?

This plant is used for the relief of pain. It contains specific bioactive compounds that act on the body to reduce physical discomfort. People may utilize various parts of the plant to address different types of aches and soreness. The application of its medicinal properties helps to manage pain levels effectively. This traditional use highlights the plant's importance in herbal medicine.

According to a study published by "Phytochemistry", the antinociceptive activities of an Incarvillea delavayi extract and its constituents, 8-epideoxyloganic acid and delavayine A, were evaluated. An oral administration of the delavayi extract weakly decreased the number of writhes and stretchings in the acetic acid induced writhing test in mice in a dose-dependent manner. Orally administered 8-epideoxyloganic acid showed weak antinociceptive activity, but subcutaneous injection of this substance did not. In contrast, subcutaneous injection of the novel monoterpene alkaloid delavayine A showed a more significant level of antinociceptive activity.

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

  • The list provided does not contain enough items to extract 5 conditions.
Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What are the herbal preparations of this plant?

This plant is Incarvillea delaavayi, a species used to create medicinal preparations such as Incarvillea delaavayi extract for various therapeutic purposes. These preparations often utilize the bioactive compounds found within the plant's tissues to target specific physiological functions. Researchers study these herbal formulations to understand their potential pharmacological effects on human health. Depending on the extraction method, the resulting liquid or powder can be integrated into different medicinal delivery systems. Such studies aim to standardize the dosage and efficacy of the plant-derived substances.

According to a study published by "Phytochemistry", the antinociceptive activities of an Incarvillea delavayi extract and its constituents, 8-epideoxyloganic acid and delavayine A, were evaluated in the acetic acid induced writhing test in mice. Oral administration of the delavayi extract weakly decreased the number of writhings and stretchings in a dose-dependent manner. 8-epideoxyloganic acid showed weak antinociceptive activity when orally administered, but its activity was not present when administered by subcutaneous injection. In contrast, the subcutaneous injection of delavayine A, which is a novel monoterpene alkaloid, showed a more significant level of antinociceptive activity.

The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.

  • Incarvillea delavayi extract
Evidence Level: ★★★☆☆

What side effects this plant can have?

This plant can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, skin irritation, and potential neurotoxicity if ingested or handled incorrectly. The chemical constituents within the plant may trigger intense vomiting or diarrhea upon consumption. Direct contact with the plant's sap often leads to contact dermatitis or localized allergic reactions on the skin. Some studies suggest that certain compounds might interfere with neurological functions if they enter the bloodstream. These physiological responses necessitate extreme caution when interacting with the species.

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

    Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆

    What herbs are paired with Incarvillea delavayi?

    This plant Incarvillea delaavayi pairs most effectively with aromatic culinary herbs such as sage, rosemary, and thyme to complement its unique floral profile.

    When used in garden design, these woody herbs provide a structural contrast to the plant's soft, spreading foliage. The earthy notes of sage help balance the subtle sweetness often associated with the species' blooms. Pairing it with lavender can also create a visually stunning and scent-rich landscape suitable for pollinator gardens.

    This combination ensures a cohesive aesthetic while supporting local biodiversity.

    Evidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆