Marsypianthes chamaedrys
Marsypianthes chamaedrys · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Marsypianthes chamaedrys is a botanical species recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties. This plant is primarily utilized for its notable analgesic activities to alleviate pain. Additionally, it exhibits significant anticoagulant effects within medicinal applications. To harness these benefits, it is typically prepared as a 10% infusion using the dried plant. Alternatively, a more potent 20% infusion can be crafted using the fresh plant material.
- Synonyms
- Clinopodium Chamaedrys · Hyptis Inflata · 12 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Marsypianthes chamaedrys is a versatile plant known by several distinct regional names. In some areas, it is affectionately referred to as Alfavaca-de-cheiro or Betônica-brava. It is also frequently called Coração-de-frade by those familiar with its local characteristics. Furthermore, the species is recognized under the common names Erva-de-cabra and Erva-de-paracari. These diverse monikers highlight the plant's deep cultural and linguistic connections across different communities.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Marsypianthes chamaedrys is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this species is frequently identified under the name Clinopodium chamaedrys. It is also closely associated with various classifications within the Hyptis genus. Specifically, researchers may refer to it as Hyptis chamaedrys, Hyptis inflata, or Hyptis lurida. Furthermore, the name Hyptis pseudochamaedrys serves as another recognized synonym for this particular plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Marsypianthes chamaedrys belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Lamiales, a group that includes many significant flowering plants. The plant is a distinguished member of the family Lamiaceae, often referred to as the mint family. Finally, it is categorized under the specific genus Marsypianthes, which defines its unique botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Marsypianthes |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Marsypianthes chamaedrys exhibits a widespread geographical range that spans across both North and South America. In the northern regions, this plant is distributed throughout Mexico, including its southeast and southwest territories. Moving southward, the species establishes a significant presence within the diverse landscapes of Brazil. Its reach in Brazil is extensive, covering the northern, northeastern, and southern portions of the country. This broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to varied ecological zones across the American continents.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Marsypianthes chamaedrys is characterized by its distinct growth form as a small herb. This plant is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its structure within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Marsypianthes chamaedrys has been identified as a plant possessing significant analgesic activity. This finding emerged from pharmacological screenings of various species traditionally recommended in folk medicine for their anti-snake venom properties. Researchers tested several plants from a specific historical list to evaluate their effects on pain and inflammation using Whittle's technique. Through the oral administration of plant infusions in mice, the study confirmed that Marsypianthes chamaedrys, along with several other species, demonstrates these medicinal benefits. These results highlight the potential therapeutic value of plants long utilized in traditional healing practices.
Compounds
Conditions
Marsypianthes chamaedrys possesses significant pharmacological properties that support its traditional use in folk medicine. Research indicates that this plant demonstrates both analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of varying intensity. Furthermore, extracts of the species have been shown to exhibit anticoagulant properties, particularly through pectic polysaccharides. The plant also functions as an antiophidic agent, which is crucial for its medicinal application. Ultimately, these combined characteristics allow Marsypianthes chamaedrys to be used effectively to treat envenomation by snakebite.
Preparations
Marsypianthes chamaedrys is prepared as a 10% infusion using the dry plant. This species is also prepared as a 20% solution using the fresh plant. These specific preparations were utilized during pharmacological screenings to test for analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. The administration of these plant forms corresponds to dosages of 1 or 2 g/kg. Such preparations allow researchers to evaluate the medicinal properties of the species in mice.