Nervilia plicata

Nervilia plicata · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Nervilia plicata is a botanical species recognized for its potential therapeutic applications in managing metabolic health. Research indicates that this plant possesses significant antidiabetic activities that may assist in regulating systemic functions. Specifically, the plant is studied for its ability to impact blood glucose levels, offering a natural approach to addressing Type 2 diabetes. Both the whole plant and specialized alcoholic stem extracts serve as primary preparations in these medicinal investigations. Consequently, understanding the chemical profile of its stem provides vital insights into its role in glucose management.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Arethusa Plicata · Cordyla Discolor · 19 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Orchidaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Stem

Classification

Common Names

Nervilia plicata is a distinctive orchid species known by several descriptive local names. In some regions, it is commonly referred to as 毛葉芋蘭, a name that highlights its unique foliage. It is also frequently called 紫花脈葉蘭, which draws attention to the striking purple veins found within its flowers. These various common names help enthusiasts identify the plant across different linguistic contexts. Understanding these relationships is essential for anyone studying the diverse nomenclature of tropical orchids.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Nervilia plicata is a botanical subject that has been identified through a variety of different names in scientific literature. Throughout various studies, this species has been cataloged under the synonym Aplostellis velutina. It has also been referred to by researchers as Arethusa plicata and Cordyla discolor in older texts. Additionally, the plant is linked to the name Epipactis plicata within certain taxonomic records. Finally, the designation Nervilia apiculata serves as another recognized synonym for this particular plant.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Nervilia plicata is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. As a member of the order Asparagales, this plant displays specialized characteristics unique to its evolutionary lineage. It is further classified within the class Equisetopsida, highlighting its distinct structural properties. Within the diverse family Orchidaceae, it stands out as a representative of its specific biological group. Finally, this species is identified by its placement in the genus Nervilia, completing its scientific profile.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Asparagales
Family Orchidaceae
Genus Nervilia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Nervilia plicata is a plant species with a broad distribution across the Asia-Temperate region. It is widely documented throughout China, appearing in North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast territories. The species also thrives in the tropical environment of Hainan. Furthermore, its presence extends to Eastern Asia, specifically within the island of Taiwan. Together, these locations highlight the significant geographic range of this unique plant.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Nervilia plicata is a small, self-supporting herb that grows close to the ground. This delicate plant maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of only 0.1 meters. Its compact growth form allows it to thrive within its specific ecological niche.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Nervilia plicata, a member of the Orchidaceae family, has long been utilized by traditional healers in Wayanad for its medicinal properties. Recent scientific investigations have confirmed its potent antidiabetic activity, specifically through the use of its alcoholic stem extract. In studies involving type 2 diabetic models, the plant demonstrated a significant ability to lower blood glucose levels over a thirty-day period. Beyond glucose regulation, the extract showed remarkable regenerative potential by protecting kidney tissue and reducing lipid peroxidation in both the kidney and pancreas. These findings provide strong empirical justification for the plant's role in indigenous medicine and suggest new possibilities for diabetes therapy.

Compounds

Conditions

Nervilia plicata demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in treating non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) by lowering blood glucose levels. The plant extract effectively manages blood glucose, showing substantial decreases over a thirty-day period in diabetic models. Furthermore, it treats elevated serum urea and creatinine levels, which are critical indicators of renal function. By reducing these markers, the plant also provides regenerative benefits to the kidney affected by type 2 diabetes. These combined effects highlight its ability to address both systemic glucose regulation and specific organ damage.

Preparations

Nervilia plicata is prepared as an alcoholic stem extract to investigate its antidiabetic and regenerative potential in type 2 diabetic models. This specific extract has been shown to lower blood glucose levels and reduce kidney damage in experimental studies. Additionally, Nervilia plicata is prepared as a whole plant for the purpose of establishing HPLC fingerprints. These fingerprints serve as a vital method for evaluating the authenticity and quality control of the plant material. By analyzing the whole plant, researchers can effectively distinguish it from related species like Nerviliae fordii.

Parts used

Nervilia plicata is a medicinal plant from the Orchidaceae family that has long been utilized by traditional healers for its therapeutic properties. Recent scientific investigations have focused specifically on the alcoholic stem extract of this species to evaluate its pharmacological potential. Studies conducted on type 2 diabetic models demonstrate that this plant part possesses significant antidiabetic activity by effectively lowering blood glucose levels. Furthermore, the extract shows remarkable regenerative potential by protecting kidney tissue and reducing lipid peroxidation in the pancreas. These findings provide strong empirical support for the traditional use of the Nervilia plicata stem in managing metabolic disorders.