Mitracarpus frigidus
Mitracarpus frigidus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Mitracarpus frigidus is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its complex chemical profile. Research into its methanolic extract has revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as psychorubrin, rutin, ursolic acid, and kaempferol. These specific phytochemicals are central to studying the plant's potential therapeutic applications in medicinal chemistry. Notably, investigations have focused on the plant's efficacy in addressing conditions related to Schistosoma mansoni. Understanding these interactions provides valuable insights into the development of new treatments derived from natural sources.
- Synonyms
- Mitracarpus Fruticosus · Mitracarpus Humboldtianus · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Mitracarpus frigidus is a botanical species frequently recognized by its local common name, Sabugueirinho. This distinctive moniker serves as a helpful identifier for those navigating its natural habitats. By using such traditional terminology, plant enthusiasts can more easily connect with the local ecological heritage. Understanding these linguistic relationships provides deeper insight into how various communities interact with their surrounding flora. Consequently, learning the common name is a vital step in mastering the complex world of plant identification.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Mitracarpus frigidus is a complex species characterized by several distinct botanical synonyms. Within its taxonomic classification, the plant is recognized through various forms, such as the variety andinus and the variety fruticosus. Further distinctions are noted in the varieties humboldtianus and orinocensis, which highlight its morphological diversity. Additionally, the taxon includes the variety peruvianus as part of its broader botanical profile. Understanding these synonymous variations is essential for accurately identifying the different expressions of this species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Mitracarpus frigidus is a distinctive botanical species that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is a member of the order Gentianales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. Further taxonomic refinement places it within the diverse family Rubiaceae. Ultimately, its scientific identity is defined by its placement in the genus Mitracarpus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Mitracarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Mitracarpus frigidus is a plant species primarily distributed throughout various regions of South America. Within the country of Brazil, its presence is remarkably widespread across multiple distinct territories. It can be found thriving in the Northeast, South, and Southeast regions of the nation. Furthermore, the species extends its reach into the North and West-Central areas of Brazil as well. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to inhabit diverse environmental settings across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Mitracarpus frigidus is characterized by its distinct growth form as a small herb. This plant is entirely self-supporting, maintaining its structure without the need for external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Mitracarpus frigidus is a medicinal plant species that has been studied for its complex chemical composition. Through HPLC chromatographic fingerprint analysis, researchers have identified several key bioactive compounds within the plant's methanolic extract. Specifically, the profile reveals that the species contains psychorubrin and rutin. Additionally, the presence of both ursolic acid and kaempferol was confirmed during the analysis. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the plant's overall biological profile and potential therapeutic properties.
Conditions
Mitracarpus frigidus demonstrates significant schistosomicidal activity against Schistosoma mansoni through both in vitro and in vivo testing. The methanolic extract of this plant effectively treats the infection by causing visible damage to the worms. In vivo administration results in a significant reduction of the total worm count, performing similarly to praziquantel. Furthermore, the plant treats the condition by decreasing granuloma density within the host. Finally, treatment with Mitracarpus frigidus helps manage the infection by reducing liver and spleen weight.
Preparations
Mitracarpus frigidus is prepared as a methanolic extract specifically from its aerial parts to evaluate its medicinal properties. This methanolic extract, referred to as MFM, was utilized in both in vitro and in vivo experiments to test its schistosomicidal effects. Researchers applied varying concentrations of this extract to adult Schistosoma mansoni worms to observe physical changes. In live models, the methanolic extract was administered orally to demonstrate a significant reduction in total worm counts. The chemical profile of this specific preparation was further analyzed via HPLC to identify its bioactive constituents.