Lonicera bournei
Lonicera bournei · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lonicera bournei is a captivating species of honeysuckle known for its unique botanical characteristics. This plant is particularly distinguished by the delicate beauty of its flower, which serves as a focal point for gardeners and enthusiasts alike. The blossoms often feature intricate shapes and subtle fragrances that enhance its aesthetic appeal. Observing the development of these blooms provides a wonderful insight into the plant's natural lifecycle. Whether grown for ornamental purposes or scientific study, its floral displays never fail to impress.
- Synonyms
- Lonicera Obscura · Caprifolium Bournei
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Flower
Classification
Common Names
Lonicera bournei is a distinctive plant recognized by various names across different linguistic traditions. In Thailand, it is affectionately known by the common name สายน้ำผึ้งน้อย. Moving to Chinese terminology, the species is identified by the name 肋柱花. It is also frequently referred to as 西南忍冬 within certain regional contexts. These diverse common names highlight the plant's widespread cultural and botanical presence.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lonicera bournei is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various taxonomic designations. Within scientific literature, it is recognized by the synonym Caprifolium bournei. Furthermore, researchers may also encounter this plant listed under the name Lonicera obscura. These overlapping names reflect the complex history of botanical classification and nomenclature. Understanding these relationships is essential for accurate identification in both field studies and formal herbarium records.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lonicera bournei belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Dipsacales, which helps define its evolutionary placement. As a member of the genus Lonicera, it shares close biological ties with other honeysuckle varieties. Finally, its specific identity is solidified by its membership in the family Caprifoliaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lonicera bournei exhibits a diverse geographic range that spans across several distinct regions of Asia. Within the temperate zones, this species is widely distributed throughout both North-Central and South-Central China. Its presence extends significantly into tropical climates as well, crossing into the Indo-China peninsula. Specifically, the plant can be found thriving in the landscapes of Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. This broad distribution highlights the species' ability to adapt to varying environmental conditions across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lonicera bournei Hemsl. serves as a rich source of various bioactive chemical compounds. Scientific analysis of its flower buds through ethanol extraction has successfully isolated several key substances. Specifically, the plant contains methyl caffeate and caffeic acid, which are critical to its chemical profile. Additionally, researchers have identified the presence of myo-inositol within these botanical extracts. These specific constituents are central to ongoing studies regarding the plant's hepatocyte protective activities.
Conditions
Lonicera bournei exhibits significant hepatocyte protective activity against cell death induced by D-galactosamine (D-GalN) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Researchers evaluated various solvent-soluble fractions of the ethanol extract from its flower buds to determine their effectiveness. Through these studies, specific compounds such as quinic acid and caffeic acid derivatives were identified as key players in this protective process. The investigation further explored how the chemical structures of these isolated substances relate to their ability to prevent hepatic damage. Ultimately, the research establishes a clear link between the components of Lonicera bournei and their capacity to mitigate D-GalN/TNF-alpha-induced hepatocyte death.
Preparations
Parts used
Lonicera bournei possesses specialized flower buds that serve as a significant source of bioactive chemical compounds. Researchers have successfully isolated various quinic acid and caffeic acid derivatives from these specific floral structures using ethanol extraction. The study focused on determining how the chemical compositions of these flowers relate to their biological functions. By examining these structure-activity relationships, scientists identified several unique compounds that may offer hepatocyte protective activity. Ultimately, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential inherent within the different parts of the Lonicera bournei flower.