Montanoa tomentosa
Montanoa tomentosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Montanoa tomentosa, commonly known as Zoapatle, is a botanical species highly regarded in traditional medicine for its diverse pharmacological properties. Research indicates that various preparations, such as aqueous crude extracts and decocts derived from its leaves and roots, possess significant biological activities. The plant is particularly noted for its antifertility, antiimplantation, and contraceptive effects, making it a subject of interest in reproductive health studies. Additionally, its spasmogenic qualities are utilized to address conditions such as bleeding, cervical dilatation, and issues related to ejaculation. Through these medicinal applications, Montanoa tomentosa continues to serve as a vital resource in ethnopharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Eriocoma Tomentosa
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Montanoa tomentosa is a versatile plant known by several distinct regional names. It is frequently referred to as Ciguapacle or Singuapacle depending on the local dialect. In other areas, people may call it Hierba de la Parida to highlight its traditional uses. The plant also goes by the names Sinhuapastle and Zoapatle within various communities. These diverse common names reflect the deep cultural significance this species holds across different landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Montanoa tomentosa is a botanical species that is also recognized by its scientific synonym, Eriocoma tomentosa. While the names may differ, they both refer to the exact same plant within the taxonomic record. This nomenclature overlap can sometimes cause confusion for researchers navigating various herbarium databases. However, understanding these synonymous relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and classification. Recognizing both terms ensures that botanists can consistently track the species across different scientific literatures.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Montanoa tomentosa is a distinct botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. This plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida, placing it within a specific group of vascular plants. Within this structure, it falls under the order Asterales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. It is further categorized into the family Asteraceae, which links it to many well-known flowering species. Ultimately, its unique identity is defined by its membership in the genus Montanoa.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Montanoa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Montanoa tomentosa is a resilient species found throughout various regions of North America. Its natural distribution is most prominently concentrated within the diverse landscapes of Mexico. This plant can be found spanning from the central highlands to the coastal reaches of the Gulf region. Furthermore, its presence extends across the northeast and northwest territories of the country. Finally, the species completes its wide-ranging coverage by inhabiting the southeastern parts of Mexico.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Montanoa tomentosa is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 3 meters as it matures. Its sturdy structure allows it to thrive and maintain its shape within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Montanoa tomentosa, commonly known as zoapatle, has emerged as a highly promising candidate in the search for new contraceptive agents. As an orally active uterotonic agent, this Mexican plant offers a significant advantage by potentially providing fewer side effects than traditional prostaglandins. Research conducted by the WHO has highlighted its effectiveness, particularly following successful testing of a tea made from the plant in Stockholm. This discovery is part of a broader international effort to identify indigenous plants that can regulate fertility. Ultimately, the study of such botanical resources aims to introduce several new contraceptive options to the medical field within the coming years.
Compounds
Conditions
Montanoa tomentosa exhibits significant antifertility activity, as demonstrated by its ability to inhibit uterine contractions and implantation in various rodent models. This plant also possesses documented anxiolytic-like effects, which have been observed in male rats. Furthermore, research indicates that Montanoa tomentosa treats reproductive impairments through its aphrodisiac properties. Specifically, the aqueous crude extract of the plant has been shown to exert an aphrodisiacal effect on male rats by facilitating sexual arousal and behavior. These diverse pharmacological actions support the traditional ethnomedical uses of the species in regulating fertility and addressing various physiological disorders.
Preparations
Montanoa tomentosa is prepared as Zoapatle aqueous crude extract (ZACE) for various pharmacological and ethnomedical studies. This plant is also prepared as an aqueous crude extract (ZACE) to investigate its effects on uterine contractility and reproductive functions. Research utilizes Montanoa tomentosa prepared as an aqueous extract to explore its traditional use as an oral contraceptive and an aphrodisiac. Additionally, Montanoa tomentosa is prepared as aqueous decocts, which have been administered orally to study their uterotonic effects and cervical dilatation. These diverse methods of preparation, including aqueous crude extracts, allow for the systematic evaluation of the plant's medicinal properties.
Parts used
Montanoa tomentosa, commonly known as zoapatle, is a significant plant in traditional Mexican medicine used for various reproductive health applications. Scientific studies have focused extensively on the bioactive properties found within its leaves, often utilizing aqueous extracts to examine its effects on pregnancy and implantation. Research further reveals that the plant's medicinal chemistry is distributed throughout its different structures, including the roots. While the leaves contain specific diterpenes like kaurenoic acid and grandiflorenic acid, the roots are notable for containing all three key uterotonic diterpenes. Understanding these specific plant parts is essential for characterizing the biosynthesis and pharmacological potency of this unique species.