Miconia dodecandra
Miconia dodecandra · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Miconia dodecandra is a notable botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Research indicates that its crude extracts and 95% ethanol extracts possess powerful anticancer activities. These medicinal properties are largely attributed to bioactive chemicals such as gallic acid, quercetin, flavonoids, and isovitexin. Beyond its role in treating cancer, the plant is also utilized to address critical conditions like snakebite. Consequently, studying its chemical composition offers promising insights into developing new pharmacological treatments.
- Synonyms
- Acinodendron Dodecandrum · Diplochita Swartziana · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Melastomataceae
- Distribution
- Northern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Miconia dodecandra is a distinctive plant species that is widely recognized by its local common name, garrapatica. This particular moniker serves as a helpful identifier for those navigating its natural habitat. Understanding these regional names provides valuable insight into how local communities interact with the surrounding flora. By linking the scientific classification to its common identity, enthusiasts can more easily study its unique characteristics. Such relationships between botanical names and everyday terminology enrich our overall knowledge of the natural world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Miconia dodecandra is a complex species that has been identified through various botanical classifications over time. Its taxonomic history includes several recognized synonyms, such as Acinodendron dodecandrum and Diplochita swartziana. Researchers have also documented the plant under the name Melastoma swartzianum in different contexts. Furthermore, specific variations of the species are noted as Miconia dodecandra var. gracilipes and Miconia dodecandra var. longifolia. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Miconia dodecandra belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, encompassing a diverse array of living botanical life. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Myrtales, which connects it to various other specialized plant groups. As a member of the genus Miconia, it shares distinct morphological traits with its close relatives. Ultimately, this plant is a proud representative of the family Melastomataceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Miconia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Miconia dodecandra is a resilient species with a widespread geographic footprint spanning across multiple regions. In North America, its presence is firmly established throughout various parts of Mexico, including the Central, Gulf, Southeast, and Southwest territories. This distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse Mexican landscapes. Moving south, the species also extends its reach into South America. Specifically, it can be found flourishing within the northern regions of Brazil.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Miconia dodecandra is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its ecosystem. This botanical species typically reaches a maximum height of 15 meters as it matures. Its distinct growth form allows it to stand prominently among the surrounding vegetation.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Miconia dodecandra is highlighted as a key medicinal herb within the traditional She Medicine system of China. This plant exhibits significant anticancer potential, largely driven by its rich concentration of bioactive compounds like flavonoids and gallic acid. Researchers have identified its ability to influence complex biological processes, offering a promising natural approach to cancer treatment. By targeting various cellular mechanisms, it represents a vital component of ethnopharmacological studies aimed at developing new therapies. As modern science continues to explore these traditional resources, the medicinal value of this species remains a focal point for future oncology research.
Compounds
Miconia dodecandra, also known as Melastoma dodecandrum, is a significant medicinal herb characterized by a rich profile of bioactive compounds. Scientific analyses have confirmed that this plant contains essential phytochemicals such as flavonoids and quercetin. Furthermore, the presence of gallic acid within the species contributes to its therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Detailed chemical studies have also identified isovitexin as one of the specific constituents isolated from its extracts. Finally, the plant contains tannins, which play a key role in demonstrating antibacterial activity against various bacterial strains.
Conditions
Miconia dodecandra, also known as Melastoma dodecandrum, demonstrates significant medicinal potential in treating various health conditions. Research indicates that this plant possesses notable anticancer activity due to its bioactive compounds. Furthermore, it has been identified as one of the species used in folk remedies to address the bacterial infections associated with snakebites. The plant's extracts show effective antibacterial properties against several types of bacteria, which is crucial for managing snakebite complications. These dual therapeutic roles highlight its importance in both traditional and modern medicinal studies.
Preparations
Miconia dodecandra, also referred to in the text as Melastoma dodecandrum, is prepared as a 95% ethanol extract to isolate chemical constituents like flavonoids and their glycosides. This specific 95% ethanol extract was used to identify thirteen distinct compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, through chromatography and HPLC. Additionally, the plant is prepared as crude extracts to evaluate its potential medicinal properties. These crude extracts demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, showing minimum inhibitory concentration values below 200 μg/mL against various bacteria. The study highlights that tannins within these preparations play a primary role in the observed bacterial growth inhibition for the plant.