Lepisanthes rubiginosa
Lepisanthes rubiginosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a botanical species known for the diverse chemical profile found within its leaves. Scientific investigations have identified key compounds in the plant, including (E)-isosafrole, T-muurolol, and safrole. These bioactive constituents have drawn significant interest due to their potential impact on complex physiological conditions. Specifically, research explores their influence on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase, which are critical in the study of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, the plant's chemical properties are being evaluated for their potential applications in managing abscesses and other inflammatory responses.
- Synonyms
- Erioglossum Cuneifolium · Lepisanthes Hirta · 15 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of names across different cultures and languages. In various local contexts, it is frequently referred to by the common names Katilayu or Mertajam. Its global identity extends to more unique linguistic variations, such as mydlovec hrdzavočervený and হরিণা. Additionally, the species is known as ఇషిరాసి in specific regional dialects. This wide variety of nomenclature highlights the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance throughout the world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a taxonomically complex species that is associated with several distinct botanical synonyms. It is recognized in scientific literature as being synonymous with Cupaniopsis godefroyi. Furthermore, the plant shares nomenclature with various forms of Erioglossum cuneifolium and Erioglossum edule. This relationship extends to specific variations, including Erioglossum edule var. album. Finally, the species is also linked to Erioglossum edule var. fraxinifolium, highlighting its broad classification history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a distinctive botanical species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Sapindales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. This species is a member of the specific genus Lepisanthes. Finally, it is categorized under the family Sapindaceae, marking its place within a diverse group of flowering plants.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Lepisanthes |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a versatile species with a broad geographic footprint across various Asian regions. It thrives in the temperate climates of China, including the specific environments found throughout the Southeast and the island of Hainan. Moving into tropical territories, the plant is well-established across the Indian Subcontinent. Its presence is notable in locations such as Assam, Bangladesh, and the East Himalaya. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse ecological zones throughout the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. This species typically reaches a modest height, generally ranging from a minimum of 4 meters to a maximum of 10 meters. Within this vertical range, it is common to see individuals maintaining a height of at least 5 meters. Its structural stability allows it to thrive as a standalone element within its natural habitat. Overall, its predictable growth patterns make it a distinct feature of its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lepisanthes rubiginosa is a medicinal plant whose essential oil possesses significant therapeutic potential. Detailed chemical analysis through GC-MS has identified several key components within its leaves. Notably, the plant contains safrole, which makes up 12.6% of the identified essential oil composition. Additionally, the oil contains t-muurolol, accounting for 4.1% of the total profile. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the plant's moderate inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase.
Conditions
Lepisanthes rubiginosa possesses significant therapeutic potential, particularly in its ability to treat Alzheimer's disease through the inhibition of specific enzymes. Scientific studies demonstrate that its essential oil exhibits moderate inhibitory activity against both acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. Beyond these neurological applications, the plant has been utilized in traditional medicinal systems to treat various physical ailments. Specifically, it is used to treat abscesses and manage symptoms such as dizziness. These diverse pharmacological properties highlight the plant's importance in both folk medicine and potential pharmaceutical development.
Preparations
Parts used
Lepisanthes rubiginosa serves as a significant source of medicinal essential oils, particularly when extracted from its leaves. Recent studies conducted in Malaysia have focused on identifying the specific chemical constituents found within these leaf extracts. Through advanced gas chromatography techniques, researchers identified twenty-four major components, including α-cadinol and safrole. These components contribute to the plant's notable anticholinesterase inhibitory activity, which shows promise for treating pathologies like Alzheimer's disease. Consequently, the leaf of this species holds substantial potential for future pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications.