Meconopsis betonicifolia

Meconopsis betonicifolia, commonly known as the Betonicifolia poppy, is a rare and striking medicinal plant endemic to specific high-altitude regions. Renowned for its unique botanical characteristics, it holds significant potential in traditional healing practices. Scientific research continues to explore its complex chemical compounds for therapeutic and pharmacological applications.

  • Scientific name: Meconopsis betonicifolia
  • Family: Papaveraceae
  • Native range: Asia-Temperate

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae within the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. As a member of the subclass Magnoliidae and the order Ranunculales, it is classified under the family Papaveraceae. Finally, it is identified by the genus Meconopsis.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Ranunculales WCVP
Family Papaveraceae WCVP
Genus Meconopsis WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Meconopsis betonicifolia, is recognized by various regional names across different languages. In Chinese, it is known as 蓝罂粟 in Simplified Chinese (zh-hans), 藍罌粟 in Traditional Chinese (zh-hant), and 藍罌粟 in the Cantonese-speaking regions of Hong Kong (zh-hk). It is also referred to as Pavot bleu de l'Himalaya in French (fr) and sinivaleunikko in Finnish (fi).
Language Common Name Source
zh-hans 蓝罂粟 Wikidata
zh-hant 藍罌粟 Wikidata
zh-hk 藍罌粟 Wikidata
fr Pavot bleu de l'Himalaya Wikidata
fi sinivaleunikko Wikidata
nb blå valmuesøster Wikidata
zh 蓝罂粟 Wikidata
ml മെക്കോനോപ്സിസ് ബെറ്റോണിസിഫോളിയ Wikidata
ks نیٛوٗل گۄلال Wikidata
fa خشخاش آبی هیمالیایی Wikidata

Distribution

This plant, known scientifically as Meconopsis betoniciifolia, possesses a very specific and limited natural range. Its geographical presence is concentrated within a single major region of the world. Specifically, this medicinal species can be found growing in the South-Central part of China. Because of this localized occurrence, it is considered a regional endemic to that particular area. Understanding this distribution is essential for conservation efforts and the study of its native habitat.

Region Area Source
China China South-Central WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Meconopsis betoniciifolia, is characterized by a distinct morphological structure that supports its medicinal properties. Its sturdy stems provide the necessary framework to elevate the plant, while the root system serves as a vital anchor and storage organ for nutrients. The leaves are prominently developed, typically offering a large surface area for photosynthesis, while the flowers emerge as the most visually striking component, often adding aesthetic value alongside their biological function.
Total parts
4
Scientific sources
4
Plant Part Sources Confidence
stems 1 ★☆☆☆☆
roots 1 ★☆☆☆☆
leaves 1 ★☆☆☆☆
flowers 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Chemicals

Meconopsis betonicifolia has 2 reported phytochemicals identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include codeinone, salutaridine.

Total chemicals
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
codeinone 1 ★☆☆☆☆
salutaridine 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Activities

Meconopsis betonicifolia has 2 reported activities identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Analgesic, Antispasmodic.

Total activities
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Activities

Activity Sources Confidence
Analgesic 1 ★☆☆☆☆
Antispasmodic 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Medicinal Uses

Meconopsis betonicifolia has 2 reported medicinal uses identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include analgesic, antispasmodic.

Total uses
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Uses

Use Sources Confidence
analgesic 1 ★☆☆☆☆
antispasmodic 1 ★☆☆☆☆