Lavandula rotundifolia
Lavandula rotundifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lavandula rotundifolia, commonly known as wild round-leaf lavender, is a botanical species recognized for its unique pharmacological profile. Recent scientific investigations have highlighted its significant antiplasmodial activities, suggesting potential utility in combating malaria parasites. To study these medicinal properties, researchers typically utilize various forms of preparation, including aqueous extracts such as infusions. Furthermore, the use of ethanolic extracts has proven essential for isolating the plant's potent bioactive compounds. Understanding these specific preparations is key to unlocking the therapeutic potential of this resilient herb.
- Synonyms
- Stoechas Rotundifolia · Lavandula Rotundifolia Var. Crenata · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lavandula rotundifolia is a versatile plant known by several distinct regional and descriptive names. It is widely recognized by its common English name, round-leaf lavender, which highlights its unique physical structure. In different linguistic contexts, it is also referred to as alfazema-brava and gilbão. Travelers or botanists might encounter it under the name Cape Verde Lavender, depending on its geographic association. Additionally, the plant is known as soikkolaventeli, illustrating the diverse terminology used to identify this species across various cultures.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lavandula rotundifolia is a taxonomically complex species that is frequently identified by various botanical synonyms. Within its classification, the plant is associated with several distinct varieties, including var. crenata and var. incisa. It is also linked to var. subpinnatifida, which highlights the morphological diversity found within the species. Furthermore, some botanical records may list the plant under the synonym Stoechas rotundifolia. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification and scientific consistency in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lavandula rotundifolia is a distinctive species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Lamiales, which defines its structural characteristics. This plant is a member of the Lamiaceae family, a group well known for its aromatic qualities. Finally, it sits firmly within the genus Lavandula, marking its place among other cherished lavender varieties.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lavandula |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lavandula rotundifolia is a distinctive species characterized by its specific and somewhat unique geographical footprint. Its natural distribution is primarily centered within the diverse landscapes of Africa. Furthermore, the plant thrives across the volcanic terrains of Macaronesia, finding a suitable home in its unique climate. The island nation of Cape Verde also serves as a key part of its ecological range. Understanding these specific locations provides essential insight into the environmental needs of this particular lavender variety.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lavandula rotundifolia features a distinct shrub-like growth form that provides structure to any garden landscape. This hardy plant is naturally self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its upright shape without the need for additional stakes or trellises.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lavandula rotundifolia is one of the native medicinal plants from the Cabo Verde archipelago investigated for its potential in treating malaria. In recent studies, researchers tested various preparations of this species against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. The results indicated that extracts of this plant exhibit moderate antiplasmodial activity, specifically showing EC50 values between 10 and 30 μg/mL. These findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of the plant by local practitioners to combat malaria infections. Ultimately, the observed activity suggests that such native flora may hold significant ethnopharmacological promise as future antimalarial agents.
Compounds
Conditions
Lavandula rotundifolia has been investigated for its potential to treat malaria infections through its antiplasmodial properties. In recent studies conducted in the Cabo Verde archipelago, both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of this plant were tested against Plasmodium falciparum strains. The research specifically found that extracts of this species exhibited moderate antimalarial activity. These results are measured by EC50 values ranging between 10 and 30 μg/mL against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains. Such findings support the traditional medicinal use of the plant and highlight its ethnopharmacological usefulness for malaria treatment.
Preparations
Lavandula rotundifolia is prepared as aqueous extracts in the form of infusions for medicinal use. This plant is also prepared as ethanolic extracts to test its biological properties. Researchers utilized both of these traditional preparation methods to investigate the species' antiplasmodial activities. The resulting aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Lavandula rotundifolia exhibited moderate activity against Plasmodium falciparum strains. These specific preparation types are central to evaluating the plant's potential as a future antimalarial treatment.