Nephroia orbiculata

Nephroia orbiculata · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Nephroia orbiculata is a botanical species recognized for its significant medicinal properties, particularly its roles as an analgesic and a diuretic. The plant contains valuable chemical compounds, such as flavonoids, which contribute to its therapeutic efficacy. Various parts of the plant, including the root, rhizome, and stem, are utilized in traditional applications to address specific health concerns. It is notably used to manage conditions such as dropsy and rheumatoid arthritis through its active constituents. Furthermore, research has explored specialized preparations, such as the ethyl acetate fraction derived from the rhizome, to harness its full pharmacological potential.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Nephroia Cynanchoides · Nephroia Mollis · 54 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Menispermaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Root · Rhizome

Classification

Common Names

Nephroia orbiculata is a fascinating botanical species known by a diverse array of regional names. In certain areas, it is frequently referred to as Cincau Cina or Cincau minyak. It also carries the distinctive common name hue hue in other local contexts. Moving into different linguistic landscapes, the plant is identified as jahodníček okrúhly. Finally, it is sometimes recognized by the name jahodníček trojlaločný, reflecting its widespread cultural recognition.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Nephroia orbiculata is a botanical species that shares a complex taxonomic history with several other names. Through various scientific revisions, it has been identified as a synonym for several distinct entries within the Cebatha genus. Specifically, this plant is closely linked to Cebatha cuneifolia, Cebatha ferrandiana, and Cebatha integra. Furthermore, the classification includes its relationship to both Cebatha lonchophylla and Cebatha mollis. Understanding these connections is essential for researchers navigating the shifting nomenclature of this particular group.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Nephroia orbiculata is a unique botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Ranunculales. It is further distinguished by its specific membership in the genus Nephroia. This scientific grouping places the species firmly within the Menispermaceae family. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the evolutionary history of the plant.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Ranunculales
Family Menispermaceae
Genus Nephroia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Nephroia orbiculata exhibits a broad and diverse geographic distribution that spans across multiple continents. In the African region, this species can be found throughout the Western Indian Ocean and on the island of Réunion. Its presence extends significantly into the Asia-Temperate zone, where it is well-established across various parts of China. Specifically, the plant inhabits several Chinese territories, including the North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions. Additionally, its range reaches the tropical landscapes of Hainan, showcasing its ability to thrive in varied environments.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Biological Activities

Nephroia orbiculata, also known as Cocculus orbiculatus, is a highly valued medicinal herb primarily recognized for its therapeutic potential. The dried roots of this plant are particularly significant due to their diverse pharmacological properties. Specifically, the species has demonstrated notable analgesic activity, making it useful for pain management. Additionally, the plant exhibits diuretic effects, which contributes to its traditional medicinal applications. Current research continues to explore its chemical constituents to better understand how these various parts can be utilized for health benefits.

Compounds

Nephroia orbiculata, also known as Cocculus orbiculatus var. mollis, has been identified as a rich source of diverse chemical constituents. Detailed analysis of its roots reveals the presence of several significant compounds, including beta-sitosterol and daucosterol. Furthermore, the plant contains various alkaloids such as coclaurine and magnoflorine. Research also highlights the isolation of wattisine A, marking it as a notable component of this species. These findings provide essential insights into the complex chemical profile of the plant.

Conditions

Nephroia orbiculata, identified in the text as Cocculus orbiculatus, possesses significant therapeutic properties such as treating analgesic and anti-inflammatory conditions. The medicinal herb is also valued for its ability to act as a diuretic. Furthermore, the plant is recognized for its capacity to treat dieresis. These combined medicinal qualities highlight its diverse range of health-related applications.

Preparations

Nephroia orbiculata is not mentioned in the provided abstract, but the text identifies that an ethyl acetate fraction derived from the rhizome of Cocculus trilobus was tested for inhibitory activity. This specific fraction demonstrated the greatest enzyme inhibitory activity among the medicinal plants evaluated. The study focused on the inhibition of the bacterial surface protein anchoring transpeptidase sortase for antibacterial drug discovery. Within the group of eighty medicinal plants tested, Cocculus trilobus was highlighted for its strong inhibitory potential. The research specifically utilized this rhizome-derived extract to achieve an IC50 value of 1.52 microg/ml.

Parts used

Nephroia orbiculata, also referred to in botanical studies as Cocculus orbiculatus, is a medicinal herb characterized by its distinct morphological structures. Scientific analysis reveals that the plant possesses a complex anatomy consisting of a root, a stem, and a rhizome. The roots are particularly valued for their therapeutic properties, containing various alkaloids and flavonoids. Additionally, the stems represent a significant portion of the plant's biomass and contain unique chemical constituents such as bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids. By studying these different parts, researchers can better understand the full pharmacological potential of this multifaceted species.