Neurada procumbens
Neurada procumbens · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Neurada procumbens is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Research indicates that aqueous ethanolic and aqueous extracts of this plant exhibit notable anticonvulsant activities. These preparations are studied for their ability to interact with specific biological targets, including carbonic anhydrase and xanthine oxidase. By modulating these enzymes, the plant may offer therapeutic pathways for managing neurological and metabolic conditions. Understanding these biochemical mechanisms provides essential insights into the medicinal utility of this species.
- Synonyms
- Figaraea Aegyptiaca · Neurada Procumbens Var. Pentagona · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Neuradaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Neurada procumbens is a plant known by a diverse array of common names across different languages and regions. In German-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as Kameltritt, while in Spanish, it is commonly called Patacamello. It also goes by the descriptive English name creeping thorn-rose, highlighting its physical characteristics. In Czech, the species is identified as gombička položená, and it is known as okakiekko in certain other contexts. These various names reflect the widespread global presence and cultural recognition of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Neurada procumbens is a botanical species characterized by several taxonomic synonyms within scientific literature. It has been formally identified under the alternative name Figaraea aegyptiaca in various studies. Furthermore, the plant encompasses several distinct varieties that are recognized through specific synonymy. These include the notable variations Neurada procumbens var. orbicularis and Neurada procumbens var. pentagona. Finally, the species is also associated with the variety known as Neurada procumbens var. stellata.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Neurada procumbens is a unique botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Malvales. Its specific taxonomic placement further identifies it as a member of the family Neuradaceae. This plant is also distinguished by its membership in the genus Neurada. Through this hierarchical classification, scientists can better understand its evolutionary connections and biological traits.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Neuradaceae |
| Genus | Neurada |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Neurada procumbens exhibits a broad geographical presence that spans across Africa and the Macaronesia region, including the Canary Islands. Within the African continent, the species is notably prevalent throughout Northeast Tropical Africa. Its specific range extends through diverse nations such as Chad, Eritrea, and the regions of Sudan and South Sudan. Additionally, the plant maintains a significant distribution within Northern Africa, specifically in Algeria. This wide-ranging habitat highlights the plant's ability to thrive across various African landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Neurada procumbens is a self-supporting herb characterized by its compact and low-growing structure. This plant typically reaches a modest maximum height of only 0.15 meters. Depending on its environmental conditions, its stature generally ranges from a minimum of 0.05 meters. Such a small growth form allows it to maintain a stable presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Neurada procumbens is one of several medicinal plants investigated for its potential therapeutic benefits in managing neurological disorders. In recent studies, researchers explored the aqueous ethanolic extracts of various species, including this plant, to evaluate their anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic properties. These evaluations were conducted using mouse models to determine how effectively the extracts could mitigate the effects of chemically induced seizures. While several plants were tested, the findings focused on the specific capacity of these extracts to combat epilepsy and reduce seizure progression. Ultimately, the study highlights the importance of investigating such botanical sources for developing new treatments for chronic seizure conditions.
Compounds
Conditions
Neurada procumbens exhibits significant antioxidant capacity through its ability to treat DPPH radical scavenging. The plant also demonstrates moderate antibacterial potential against seven different bacterial strains. Its extracts show strong enzyme-inhibiting properties, specifically treating carbonic anhydrase activity. Furthermore, the plant effectively treats xanthine oxidase and urease enzymes. These diverse biological activities suggest that Neurada procumbens contains multifunctional bioactive compounds.
Preparations
Neurada procumbens is prepared as aqueous ethanolic extracts for the purpose of exploring its anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic activities. These specific extracts were evaluated in a PTZ-induced kindling model of epilepsy using Swiss albino mice. Additionally, the plant is prepared as an aqueous extract to investigate its physiological effects on blood pressure. Research indicates that this aqueous extract can increase blood pressure in both anesthetized normotensive rats and conscious SHR. Consequently, the preparation of these extracts serves to identify potential medicinal properties and safety warnings regarding cardiovascular health.