Inula japonica
Inula japonica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Inula japonica is a botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential, particularly through the bioactive compounds found in its flower. Research has highlighted the plant's antitumor activities, driven by key chemical constituents such as polysaccharides, sesquiterpenes, and taraxasteryl acetate. These components are being investigated for their ability to combat various conditions, ranging from cancer to neuroinflammatory diseases. Studies utilize diverse preparations, including the specific IJP70-1 compound and healthy tea, to explore these medicinal benefits. Furthermore, scientific analysis often examines these substances across both the lipid-soluble and non-soluble phases to understand their biological efficacy.
- Synonyms
- Inula Britannica Subsp. Japonica · Inula Britannica Var. Japonica · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Flower
Classification
Common Names
Inula japonica is a versatile plant known by a variety of names across different linguistic landscapes. In English-speaking regions, it is frequently referred to by the common name Oriental yellowhead. Its identity shifts as one travels, being called oman japonský in Czech and Девясил японский in Russian. In Arabic contexts, the species is recognized as طيون ياباني, highlighting its diverse global presence. Finally, in Japan, it is identified by the name オグルマ, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of its nomenclature.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Inula japonica is a plant that is recognized across various botanical classifications through several different names. It is frequently identified by the synonym Inula britannica subsp. japonica in various scientific contexts. Additionally, the plant is referred to as Inula britannica var. japonica, reflecting a different taxonomic approach to its categorization. Some researchers and databases also list it under the synonym Limbarda japonica. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate identification and study within the botanical community.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Inula japonica belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast group, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It specifically falls under the order Asterales, which links it to many other flowering plants. Further refinement shows that it is a member of the Asteraceae family. Finally, this plant is defined by its taxonomic placement within the genus Inula.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Inula |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Inula japonica exhibits a broad geographic range that spans across various regions of Asia-Temperate. Within the Arabian Peninsula, this plant establishes a notable presence across several diverse territories. Its distribution is specifically documented in Kuwait and Oman, showcasing its ability to thrive in these environments. Furthermore, the species is widely found throughout Saudi Arabia and Yemen. This wide-reaching pattern highlights the plant's adaptability across the Middle Eastern landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Inula japonica is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinct growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1 meter, though it can be found as small as 0.2 meters. Its structural stability allows it to thrive upright within its natural habitat. These varying dimensions reflect the adaptable nature of this herbaceous species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Inula japonica has emerged as a significant source of bioactive compounds with potent antitumor properties. Research highlights that the sesquiterpene dimer Faberidilactone A, isolated from this plant, can effectively inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma progression by inducing apoptosis and ferroptosis. Furthermore, the plant's flowers yield a specific polysaccharide known as IJP70-1, which demonstrates remarkable in vivo anticancer activity. Unlike direct cytotoxic agents, this polysaccharide works by activating the immune system and inhibiting angiogenesis through interactions with proteins like TLR-4 and PD-1. Together, these findings underscore the therapeutic potential of Inula japonica in the development of novel cancer treatments.
Compounds
Conditions
Inula japonica serves as a potent source of bioactive compounds that can treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) by acting as anti-neuroinflammatory agents. The plant also possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for various medicinal applications. Its components, such as alantolactone and isoalantolactone, exhibit strong anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Furthermore, specific polysaccharides derived from the plant demonstrate notable in vivo antitumor activity through immune system activation. Collectively, these diverse pharmacological actions highlight the plant's potential in treating cancer and related inflammatory conditions.
Preparations
Inula japonica is prepared as IJP70-1, a purified homogeneous polysaccharide with potential anticancer properties. The plant is also prepared as a healthy tea, which may be useful for treating Alzheimer's disease and related neuroinflammatory conditions. As a traditional Chinese medicine, it has long been utilized for various medical indications. During elemental speciation studies, Inula japonica is prepared as a lipid-soluble phase through organic solvent extraction. Additionally, the plant is prepared as a non-soluble phase via acid digestion to facilitate the determination of various elements.
Parts used
Inula japonica is a traditional medicinal plant that offers significant therapeutic potential through its bioactive components. Research has specifically highlighted that the flowers of this species serve as a rich source of valuable chemical compounds. For instance, a purified polysaccharide extracted from the flowers has demonstrated promising in vivo antitumor activity by interacting with key immune proteins. Additionally, the floral extracts contain various terpenes and sesquiterpenes that exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties. These findings suggest that the flowers of Inula japonica could be developed into effective treatments for cancer and neuroinflammatory diseases like Alzheimer's.