Ipomoea stans
Ipomoea stans · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ipomoea stans is a unique botanical species recognized for its specific medicinal properties. The roots of this plant are particularly valued for their biological activity. When prepared as an oligosaccharide fraction, the plant serves significant therapeutic roles. Specifically, it is utilized for its potent purgative activities. These preparations are commonly employed to act as a reliable laxative.
- Synonyms
- Convolvulus Firmus · Ipomoea Jaliscana · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Convolvulaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Ipomoea stans is known by a diverse array of local names that reflect its deep cultural roots. In certain regions, it is referred to by its Nahuatl-derived name, Cacamotic, or by the variations Cacastlapa and Castlapa. The plant also carries more folkloric titles, such as Espanta lobos, which translates to a charm used to ward off wolves. Similarly, it is frequently called Espanta vaqueros in various communities. These multiple identities highlight the rich linguistic heritage associated with this specific species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ipomoea stans is a versatile plant that is recognized by several different scientific names within botanical literature. It is formally linked to the synonym Convolvulus firmus, reflecting its complex taxonomic history. Researchers also identify the species under the name Ipomoea jaliscana in various contexts. Furthermore, the plant includes the specific variety known as Ipomoea stans var. hirsuta. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ipomoea stans is a remarkable species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Solanales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. It serves as a distinctive member of the genus Ipomoea, which is widely recognized for its diverse growth forms. Finally, this species finds its botanical home within the family Convolvulaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Ipomoea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ipomoea stans is widely distributed across various regions of Northern America and Mexico. Its presence is particularly noted throughout the central parts of Mexico, where it thrives in diverse environments. The plant also extends its reach into the Gulf region, finding suitable habitats along the coastal areas. Furthermore, its range encompasses the northeastern territories of the country, showcasing significant ecological versatility. Finally, this species is well-established in the southwest, completing a broad geographical footprint across the landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ipomoea stans grows in a distinct shrub form that provides a lush, structured appearance to any landscape. Unlike many other members of its genus, this species is entirely self-supporting and does not require a trellis to thrive.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Ipomoea stans is recognized as one of the specific morning glory species used in the preparation of Mexican jalap. Within the context of traditional medicinal plant complexes, this species contributes to the potent purgative activity found in various herbal products. Scientific analysis has identified operculinic acid B as a key pentasaccharide component derived from this particular plant. Such chemical profiling is essential for distinguishing between different members of the Ipomoea genus used in laxative formulations. Ultimately, understanding these glycosidic profiles ensures the authentication and quality control of these important purgative drugs.
Compounds
Conditions
Ipomoea stans demonstrates significant biological potential through its ability to treat the OVCAR and UISO-SQC-1 cancer cell lines via cytotoxic activity. The plant also serves as a useful laxative and exhibits notable purgative activity. Furthermore, aqueous extracts of its roots can treat the maximal contractile response induced by noradrenaline in isolated rat aorta. These diverse medicinal properties highlight the complex therapeutic applications of the species.
Preparations
Ipomoea stans is prepared as an oligosaccharide fraction to facilitate the isolation of specific bioactive compounds. From this prepared fraction, researchers successfully identified three new tetrasaccharide glycosides. These glycosides are characterized by unique short-chain fatty acids that are ester-linked to their tetrasaccharide cores. The extraction process allows for the concentration of substances that exhibit pronounced cytotoxicity against human tumor cell lines. Furthermore, this specific fraction demonstrates significant antibiotic activity against two distinct bacterial strains.
Parts used
Ipomoea stans contains specific bioactive components that can be sourced directly from its root system. Scientific investigations have successfully isolated five new tetrasaccharide glycosides, known as stansins 1-5, from these plant roots. These isolated compounds have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity against specific cancer cell lines, including OVCAR and UISO-SQC-1. Furthermore, aqueous extracts derived from the roots of Ipomoea stans have shown the ability to inhibit contractile responses in isolated rat aorta. This indicates that the root extracts possess notable vasorelaxant effects, highlighting the plant's medicinal potential.