Lindera megaphylla
Lindera megaphylla · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lindera megaphylla is a significant botanical species known for containing unique bioactive compounds. The plant's root is particularly valued for its concentrated chemical profile. Within these roots, specialized alkaloids such as dicentrine and d-dicentrine are found in notable amounts. These specific chemicals are studied for their biological impact, particularly their ability to induce vasoconstriction. Understanding these properties provides important insights into the medicinal potential of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Lindera Megaphylla F. Touyunensis · Benzoin Oldhamii · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Lindera megaphylla is a versatile species known by a diverse array of regional and linguistic names. In certain contexts, it is referred to by the common names hei ke nan or mao hei ke nan. Its identity is further reflected in Japanese nomenclature, where it is recognized as オオバコウバシ or 大葉釣樟. Additionally, the plant is often identified through the descriptive title 大香葉樹. These varying names highlight the broad geographical reach and cultural significance of this unique plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lindera megaphylla is a botanical species that is frequently documented under several different scientific names. Throughout various taxonomic studies, it has been identified by the synonyms Benzoin oldhamii and Benzoin pricei. The plant is also closely associated with the name Benzoin touyunense in many botanical records. Furthermore, specific variations of this relationship include Benzoin touyunense f. megaphyllum and Benzoin touyunense f. trichocladum. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate identification within the plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lindera megaphylla is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the intricate hierarchy of biological classification. Within this vast botanical world, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida and the order Laurales. It is further categorized under the genus Lindera, which defines its specific evolutionary lineage. This classification places the plant firmly within the aromatic family Lauraceae. Through these scientific relationships, we can better understand the unique botanical identity of this resilient species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Lindera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lindera megaphylla exhibits a broad geographical range that spans diverse ecological zones across Asia. Within the Asia-Temperate region, the species is widely distributed throughout various parts of China, including the North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast territories. Its presence extends further south into the Asia-Tropical regions, where it thrives in the lush environments of Indo-China. Specifically, documented populations can be found nestled within the borders of both Myanmar and Vietnam. This wide-reaching distribution highlights the plant's remarkable adaptability to different climatic conditions across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lindera megaphylla is characterized by a distinct tree-like growth form. This species is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to stand firmly within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lindera megaphylla serves as a significant natural source for the isolation of specialized alkaloids, most notably dicentrine and its derivative d-dicentrine. Research indicates that dicentrine acts as a potent and selective alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonist within vascular smooth muscle. Beyond its cardiovascular implications, the specific isomer d-dicentrine has demonstrated substantial potential in oncology research. Studies show that d-dicentrine can inhibit the growth of various human cancer cell lines by interfering with DNA and RNA biosynthesis. Consequently, these chemical compounds found within the plant offer promising avenues for both pharmacological and anti-tumor therapeutic applications.
Conditions
Lindera megaphylla, through its isolated alkaloid dicentrine, exhibits a variety of significant pharmacological activities. The plant's compounds can inhibit the aggregation of human platelet-rich plasma when administered at high concentrations. It also effectively suppresses the biosynthesis of the macromolecules DNA and RNA, contributing to its anti-tumor potential. Furthermore, the extracts can slightly inhibit the contraction of guinea-pig trachea caused by histamine or carbachol. Finally, these substances demonstrate high cytotoxicity against the esophageal carcinoma HCE-6 cell line and can suppress inositol monophosphate formation in rat thoracic aorta.
Preparations
Parts used
Lindera megaphylla is a plant species that holds significant medicinal potential due to the unique chemical compounds found within its structure. Research has specifically identified the root of this plant as a rich source of d-dicentrine, a naturally occurring aporphine type isoquinoline alkaloid. Studies indicate that this compound extracted from the root demonstrates potent anti-tumor activities against various cancer cell lines. In laboratory tests, d-dicentrine was shown to inhibit the growth of human hepatoma cells and decrease colony formation efficiency. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the root of Lindera megaphylla could play a vital role in future anti-cancer therapeutic applications.