Lobelia chinensis
Lobelia chinensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lobelia chinensis is a notable medicinal plant that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Research focusing on the whole plants has revealed that crude water extracts contain several bioactive compounds, including 3'-hydroxygenkwanin, 5-Hydroxy-7-methoxycoumarin, 6,7-DIMETHOXYCOUMARIN, and Fraxinol. These specific chemicals contribute to the plant's complex chemical profile and therapeutic efficacy. Notably, the species has demonstrated significant antitumor activities in various experimental models. Furthermore, investigations into its medicinal properties have also explored its effects against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Synonyms
- Lobelia Chinensis Var. Pilosa · Isolobus Caespitosus · 24 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Campanulaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lobelia chinensis is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and traditional names. Often referred to as Chinese lobelia, it holds a significant place in various botanical discussions. In certain contexts, it is also identified by the name aze-mushiro. The plant carries the traditional moniker ban bian lian, reflecting its cultural roots. Additionally, it is recognized by the name mizo-kakushi, showcasing the linguistic variety surrounding this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lobelia chinensis is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this plant is frequently identified by the name Dortmanna campanuloides. It is also recognized under the designations of Dortmanna chinensis and Dortmanna radicans. Furthermore, researchers may encounter the species listed as Isolobus caespitosus or Isolobus campanuloides. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lobelia chinensis belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, marking its place among the diverse world of living vegetation. Within this realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and falls into the order Asterales. This plant is a distinguished member of the genus Lobelia, showcasing its unique botanical characteristics. Furthermore, it is nested within the family Campanulaceae, which defines its structural lineage. Understanding these biological relationships provides essential insight into the natural identity of this species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lobelia chinensis is a notable species found throughout various temperate regions of Asia. Its natural distribution is heavily concentrated in China, spanning from the South-Central provinces to the Southeast and the island of Hainan. Beyond the Chinese mainland, the plant also flourishes across Eastern Asia. Specifically, it is well-documented in the diverse landscapes of both Japan and Korea. This widespread presence highlights the plant's ability to thrive within these distinct East Asian ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lobelia chinensis is a self-supporting herb characterized by its compact and delicate growth form. This species typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of only 0.15 meters. Such a small profile makes it an ideal choice for low-growing garden accents or specialized container displays.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lobelia chinensis was investigated as a potential candidate for antitumor activity during a study on human malignant melanoma cells. Researchers examined various traditional Chinese medicinal herbs to determine their cytotoxic effects against the A-375 cell line. While some extracts showed significant promise, the crude water extract of Lobelia chinensis specifically exhibited no observed cytotoxicity in this particular test. This finding suggests that the plant may require different concentrations or formulations to demonstrate therapeutic efficacy against skin cancer. Ultimately, the study highlights the complex nature of evaluating herbal medicines for their potential role in cancer treatment.
Compounds
Conditions
Lobelia chinensis exhibits a diverse range of medicinal properties as demonstrated across several scientific studies. While it did not show cytotoxicity against A-375 human malignant melanoma cells in one study, its potential for other therapeutic applications is significant. Specifically, n-hexane extracts of the plant have been shown to effectively inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, the plant demonstrates significant antioxidant activity, as evidenced by its performance in DPPH assays. These findings highlight the multifaceted pharmacological potential of Lobelia chinensis in treating infections and managing oxidative stress.
Preparations
Lobelia chinensis is prepared as a crude water extract to evaluate its in vitro antitumor effects against human malignant melanoma cells. In this specific experimental context, the crude water extract of the plant showed no observed cytotoxicity toward the A-375 cell line. Additionally, Lobelia chinensis is prepared as whole plants for the purpose of isolating various chemical constituents. Through the study of these whole plants, researchers successfully isolated several new piperidine alkaloids and a polyacetylene. These isolated compounds from the whole plant were subsequently tested for their cytotoxic activity against human lung cancer cell lines.