Indigofera oblongifolia
Indigofera oblongifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Indigofera oblongifolia is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Research focusing on the plant's leaf extracts has demonstrated significant antioxidant activities within biological systems. Specifically, these extracts have shown the ability to influence key inflammatory markers, including catalase, interleukin-1beta, and interleukin-6. Furthermore, studies into the leaf extract (IE) and leaf extract (IOLE) highlight its promising antimalarial properties. These findings suggest that the plant holds considerable value in the medicinal fight against malaria and oxidative stress.
- Synonyms
- Anil Lotoides · Anil Paucifolia · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Indigofera oblongifolia is a unique plant species that is recognized by several distinct local names. In certain regions, it is commonly referred to by the name Hasr. It is also widely known by its Hebrew common name, ניל דל-עלים. These diverse naming conventions reflect the plant's presence across different linguistic and cultural landscapes. Understanding these various identities is essential for anyone studying the botanical diversity of the area.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Indigofera oblongifolia is a botanical species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout history. Due to various taxonomic classifications, it is recognized by synonyms such as Anil lotoides and Anil paucifolia. The plant is also frequently associated with the nomenclature Indigofera colorata in various botanical records. Furthermore, its identity has been linked to the names Indigofera erythrantha and Indigofera lotoides in previous studies. Understanding these multiple designations is essential for accurately identifying the species within complex botanical frameworks.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Indigofera oblongifolia belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of living organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the family Fabaceae, it shares characteristics common to many nitrogen-fixing legumes. Finally, this plant is situated within the genus Indigofera, which defines its unique botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Indigofera oblongifolia is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the Northeast Tropical Africa region. Its presence is well-documented across several diverse nations, including Chad and Djibouti. The species also thrives within the territories of Eritrea and Ethiopia, showcasing its adaptability to these specific environments. Furthermore, its range extends to the unique landscape of Socotra, highlighting a broad geographical footprint. Together, these locations define the core distribution patterns for this particular plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Indigofera oblongifolia is a self-supporting plant that typically takes on a shrub-like growth form. This resilient species can reach a maximum height of approximately 2 meters. Its sturdy structure allows it to maintain a consistent presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Indigofera oblongifolia has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential in recent studies focusing on the treatment of malaria. Research indicates that leaf extracts of this plant possess potent antimalarial activity, effectively reducing parasitemia levels in murine models. Beyond its ability to combat infection, the plant also exhibits strong antioxidant properties that help mitigate oxidative stress. These antioxidant effects are crucial for protecting vital organs, such as the liver and spleen, from damage caused by the disease. Ultimately, the dual action of Indigofera oblongifolia makes it a promising candidate for developing alternative medicinal treatments against malaria.
Compounds
Conditions
Indigofera oblongifolia demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating blood-stage murine malaria through the reduction of parasitemia. The plant extract effectively treats Plasmodium chabaudi-induced spleen tissue injury and mitigates hepatic inflammation in infected subjects. Furthermore, it treats oxidative imbalance by raising hepatic antioxidant levels, specifically impacting catalase. The extract also exhibits promising antibacterial activity against various bacterial strains. Through these diverse mechanisms, the plant serves as a potent agent against malaria-induced damage and infection.
Preparations
Indigofera oblongifolia is prepared as extracts, specifically as ethanolic extracts, to investigate its antibacterial and cytotoxic properties. This plant is also prepared as leaf extract (IE) for studying its role in reducing hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress during malaria infection. Furthermore, Indigofera oblongifolia is prepared as leave extract (IOLE) to evaluate its antimalarial and antioxidant effects on spleen tissue injury. These various preparation methods, including the use of IE and IOLE, allow researchers to examine the medicinal benefits of the species. Each specific form of the plant's extract serves as a critical tool in assessing its therapeutic potential against infectious diseases.
Parts used
Indigofera oblongifolia possesses medicinal properties that are specifically derived from its leaf extract. Recent scientific investigations have focused on how this leaf extract can be utilized to combat the effects of blood-stage murine malaria. In experimental studies, the administration of the extract significantly reduced hepatic inflammation and the presence of apoptotic cells in mice. Furthermore, the leaf extract helped bolster antioxidant levels while simultaneously decreasing markers of oxidative stress within the liver. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the leaf of Indigofera oblongifolia offers potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection against malaria-induced injury.