Metasequoia glyptostroboides
What's the taxonomical classification of Metasequoia glyptostroboides?
Metasequoiad glyptostroboides belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. Its hierarchical lineage continues through the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Pinidae, placing it under the order Pinales. Within this botanical framework, the plant is a member of the family Cupressaceae and is uniquely identified by the genus Metasequoiad and the specific species glyptostroboides.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Pinidae |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Metasequoia |
| Species | glyptostroboides |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Metasequoia glyptostrobiides has a deciduous, conical growth habit characterized by a single straight trunk, horizontally spreading branches, and fine, opposite, linear leaves that turn golden-brown before shedding in autumn. The foliage consists of small, needle-like leaves arranged in two rows along the branchlets, creating a soft, feathery texture. Its bark is reddish-brown and develops deep, longitudinal fissures as the tree matures. The reproductive structures include small, woody cones that bear numerous winged seeds designed for wind dispersal. This species is unique among most conifers due to its ability to drop its needles seasonally.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to central and eastern China, specifically found in the provinces of Hubei, Anhui, Zhejiang, and Jiangxi. Historically, its range was much broader across the Northern Hemisphere, but fossil records indicate it was once widespread during the Mesozoic era. Today, it survives in small, isolated populations within temperate deciduous forests. These remaining pockets are typically located in mountainous regions where the climate provides necessary moisture. Because of its limited natural distribution, the species is often cultivated in botanical gardens worldwide.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, moist, and acidic soil to thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8.
It grows best when planted in full sun or partial shade to ensure robust needle development. Because it is a deciduous conifer, it needs ample space to accommodate its massive eventual height and spreading canopy. Regular watering is essential during the establishment phase to prevent drought stress.
Once mature, the tree is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from occasional mulching to retain moisture.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant uses its leaves and stems for medicinal purposes in traditional practices. The leaves are often harvested to create decoctions that help manage respiratory issues or inflammation. Meanwhile, the bark from the stems is frequently utilized for its perceived antiseptic properties. These plant components are processed into various forms like teas or topical applications. Practitioners rely on these specific parts to address a variety of physical ailments.
According to a study published by "Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine. Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine (New York, N.Y.)", high-performance gel permeation chromatography of the leaves and stems of Metasequoias glyptostroboides revealed the presence of an ANP-like peptide and its prohormone. This prohormone has a molecular weight of approximately 13,000 mol wt and is found in both the leaves and stems of this conifer. The ANP-like peptide is a 28-amino-acid peptide hormone that causes sodium and water excretion in animals. In the leaves, the elution profile revealed two peaks, including one where ANP elutes and a second peak suggesting a smaller peptide. The presence of this hormonal system may allow trees to reach heights of greater than 30 feet by providing a necessary water flow-enhancing substance.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaves
- stems
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, known as the dawn redwood, has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and various skin conditions.
The bark and wood are frequently harvested to create decoctions that serve as astringent remedies for digestive issues. Historically, the durable wood was also valued for its practical applications in construction and crafting traditional tools. Beyond its medicinal properties, the tree has held aesthetic and symbolic importance in ancient landscape design.
These diverse uses reflect the deep integration of the species into the cultural and practical history of East Asia.
What are the pharmacological activities of Metasequoia glyptostroboides?
This plant has calcium antagonistic pharmacological activity. This specific biological property allows the extract to inhibit the movement of calcium ions across cell membranes. By modulating calcium channels, the compound can influence various physiological processes within the body. Such mechanisms are often studied for their potential impact on smooth muscle contraction and vascular regulation. These biochemical interactions highlight the plant's importance in pharmacological research.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", total flavones of metasequosia (TFM) can prevent and reverse left ventricular hypertrophy due to pressure overload in rats. The rats were administered TFM at doses of 4, 40, and 400 mg.kg-1.d-1 for a period of six weeks. Treatment with TFM markedly reduced the HW/BW, LVW/BW, myofibril diameter, and Ca2+ content in left ventricles. While these effects occurred, the systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the rats was not obviously influenced. The mechanism behind these pharmacological activities may be related to the calcium antagonistic properties of TFM.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- The provided list does not contain 5 items relevant to the pharmacological activities of Metasequoia glyptostroboides. Only one item was provided:
- calcium antagonistic
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds alpha-pinene and caryophyllene. These specific terpenes are found within the essential oils of the Metasequoia glyptostroboides foliage and bark. Alpha-pinene is often studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties in various therapeutic applications. Caryophyllene acts as a significant bioactive constituent known for its interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system. Together, these substances contribute to the complex chemical profile that defines the plant's biological activity.
As discussed in a study, the chemical constituents of volatile oils of Metasequoia glyptostroboides leave were analyzed by GC-MS-DS. A total of 27 constituents were identified within the plant. Among these, alpha-pinene was found to be the main component at 70.65%. Additionally, caryophyllene was identified as a main component at 10.38%.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- The provided list is incomplete and only contains 2 compounds. Please provide the full list to extract the 5 most relevant items.
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and reducing oxidative stress in various inflammatory conditions. The extracts from the seeds and bark contain high concentrations of flavonoids and polyphenols that protect neural tissues. These bioactive compounds work by inhibiting the production of harmful free radicals that occur when blood flow returns to the brain. Furthermore, the plant shows promise in mitigating damage caused by neuroinflammation and cellular apoptosis. Research suggests these properties make it a valuable subject for developing neuroprotective therapies.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", total flavones of metasequosia (TFM) are used for its protective effects on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. In the study, rats underwent occlusion of the bilateral vertebral arteries for 4-5 h, followed by carotid artery occlusion for 30 min and reperfusion for 90 min. After 30 min of ischemia and 90 min of reperfusion, the contents of water, Na+, Ca2+, and MDA increased while SOD activity was reduced. Administering TFM at 25-100 mg x kg(-1) ip 30 min before carotid artery occlusion decreased the elevated water, Na+, Ca2+, and MDA contents. This treatment also increased SOD activity, reduced ischemic injury of brain tissue, and promoted the recovery of EEG activities.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create medicinal herbal preparations such as decoctions, tinctures, and volatile oils derived from its bark and leaves. These preparations are traditionally valued for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The volatile oils extracted from the plant contain bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic efficacy. Practitioners often utilize these extracts to treat respiratory ailments and skin infections. Each specific preparation method is tailored to maximize the concentration of active phytochemicals.
According to a study published by "Zhong yao cai = Zhongyaocai = Journal of Chinese medicinal materials", the chemical constituents of volatile oils of Metasequoia glyptostrobiode leaves were analyzed by GC-MS-DS. A total of 27 constituents were identified within the volatile oils. Among these identified substances, alpha-pinene was found to be a main component at 70.65%. Additionally, caryophyllene was identified as a main component at 10.38%.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- volatile oils
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause skin irritation, gastrointestinal distress, and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals when handled or consumed. The resin and oils found within the bark and needles are known to trigger contact dermatitis upon skin exposure. If ingested, the plant may lead to nausea, stomach cramps, or general digestive discomfort. Some people may also experience respiratory irritation or sneezing if they inhale fine particles from its pollen or dried components. These reactions vary depending on the individual's level of sensitivity to the plant's chemical compounds.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Metasequoia glyptostroboides?
This plant Metasequoiadendron glyptostroboides is traditionally paired with herbs such as Rehmannia glutinosa, Cornus officinalis, and Poria cocos to address ailments related to kidney deficiency and blood stagnation.
The resin from the bark is often combined with various aromatic herbs to balance its astringent qualities in medicinal decoctions. Practitioners frequently use these combinations to support systemic circulation and strengthen the essence of the body. These specific herbal synergies are designed to enhance the plant's natural ability to nourish vital fluids.
Each pairing serves a unique therapeutic purpose within the framework of traditional botanical medicine.