Lonicera caprifolium
Lonicera caprifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lonicera caprifolium, commonly known as honeysuckle, is a climbing shrub celebrated for its fragrant and tubular blossoms. The plant's flowers are particularly notable for containing bioactive compounds such as spermidine. To harness these beneficial properties, the flowers are often processed into specialized dried flower powders. These preparations serve as a valuable resource in various botanical and medicinal applications. Understanding the chemical profile of this species highlights its unique role in natural pharmacology.
- Synonyms
- Lonicera Caprifolium Var. Flavescens · Lonicera Caprifolium Var. Italica · 22 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Flower
Classification
Common Names
Lonicera caprifolium is a versatile climbing plant known by a diverse array of common names across different languages. In Italian contexts, it is frequently referred to as Caprifoglio comune. Moving into French terminology, the species is recognized as Chevrefeuille des jardins. German speakers also use several descriptive titles, such as Echtes Geißblatt, Garten-Geissblatt, or Gartengeißblatt. These varying names reflect the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance throughout Europe.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lonicera caprifolium is a botanical species characterized by several distinct taxonomic synonyms that reflect its diverse classifications. Among these recognized names are Caprifolium atropurpureum and Caprifolium germanicum, which highlight different variations within the plant family. The species is also frequently identified in literature as Caprifolium hortense or Caprifolium italicum. Furthermore, specific white-flowered varieties are categorized under the synonym Caprifolium italicum var. album. Understanding these various nomenclatures is essential for accurate identification and scientific study of this climbing honeysuckle.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lonicera caprifolium is a remarkable specimen belonging to the expansive kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further finds its place within the order Dipsacales, showcasing its specific evolutionary path. This species is a distinguished member of the genus Lonicera, which defines its unique morphological traits. Ultimately, it resides within the family Caprifoliaceae, anchoring its identity within a well-defined botanical lineage.
| 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 caprifolium exhibits a broad and diverse geographical distribution that spans across multiple continents. In the Asian-Temperate regions, this species is frequently found throughout the Caucasus, the Transcaucasus, and the North Caucasus. Its presence extends further into Central Asia, specifically within territories such as Uzbekistan, and reaches into Western Asia through Türkiye. Beyond Asia, the plant also establishes itself within Europe, particularly across the Baltic States of Eastern Europe. This wide-ranging habitat demonstrates the remarkable adaptability of the species to various regional climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lonicera caprifolium is a distinctive plant characterized by its robust shrub growth form. This species possesses an obligatory climbing habit, meaning it must use external support to ascend toward the light. In terms of scale, the plant typically reaches a minimum height of 2 meters as it establishes itself. However, many specimens will grow much larger, often exceeding a minimum threshold of 4.875 meters. Ultimately, this climbing shrub can reach a maximum height of approximately 6 meters in ideal conditions.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lonicera caprifolium has emerged as a promising botanical source for enhancing human longevity through its natural chemical composition. Recent studies utilizing liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry have identified that the dried flower powder of this species contains a significant concentration of spermidine. Specifically, the plant was found to hold 217.28 µg/g of this essential polyamine, making it a highly effective candidate for nutraceutical development. Because spermidine plays a critical role in cell proliferation and tissue regeneration, this plant offers substantial anti-aging benefits. Consequently, Lonicera caprifolium is recommended as a rich ingredient for natural supplements designed to reduce the risks of chronic illness in adults.
Conditions
Lonicera caprifolium demonstrates significant biological utility through its diverse medicinal and pesticidal properties. The essential oil of this plant effectively treats the West Nile virus vector Culex pipiens by exhibiting potent adulticidal activity against female mosquitoes. Furthermore, it serves as a highly efficient agent to treat the larvae of C. pipiens, achieving 100% mortality in laboratory settings. Beyond pest management, the plant's dried flower powder acts as a rich source of spermidine, which can be used to treat anti-aging concerns by supporting cell proliferation. Consequently, these findings highlight the plant's potential in both eco-friendly insect control and the development of natural nutraceutical supplements.
Preparations
Lonicera caprifolium is prepared as dried flower powders to serve as a potent source of spermidine. These processed powders are identified as valuable components for the creation of natural nutraceutical supplements. By utilizing the dried form of the flower, researchers can leverage its high polyamine concentrations to support cell proliferation. This specific preparation method allows the plant to be used effectively in anti-aging products designed for individuals over the age of 30. Consequently, the transformation of Lonicera caprifolium into dried powders facilitates its application in improving cardiovascular and neurological health.
Parts used
Lonicera caprifolium serves as a significant botanical source for the extraction of valuable polyamines. Researchers have focused on the specific parts of this plant, namely the flower, to quantify its nutritional potential. Analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry revealed that its dried flower powder contains a high concentration of spermidine. This makes the plant a promising candidate for the development of natural nutraceutical products aimed at enhancing cell proliferation. Consequently, the flowers of Lonicera caprifolium are recommended as a rich resource for anti-aging supplements designed to improve long-term health.