Nymphoides peltata
Nymphoides peltata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Nymphoides peltata is a unique aquatic plant that has gained attention for its diverse therapeutic potential. Derived primarily from its root, the plant contains significant bioactive chemicals such as Isoquercetin, Menthiafolin, RUTIN, and Scopolin. These compounds contribute to its recognized medicinal activities, most notably its antipyretic and diuretic properties. Consequently, it is often utilized to address physiological conditions like fever and polyuria. Understanding the chemical profile of this species offers valuable insights into its role in traditional and modern herbal applications.
- Synonyms
- Waldschmidia Nymphoides · Villarsia Peltata · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Menyanthaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Nymphoides peltata is a distinctive aquatic species known by several different regional and descriptive names. In English-speaking regions, it is most frequently referred to as the Fringed Water-lily or simply the Fringed Waterlily. This plant also carries the specific moniker Fringed Water-Lily (EN) in certain botanical contexts. Beyond English, it is identified by local names such as Almindelig søblad and Ffaen Gors Eddïog. Understanding these various common names helps enthusiasts identify this unique floating plant across different cultures and languages.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Nymphoides peltata is a botanical subject frequently encountered under various taxonomic labels in scientific literature. It is closely associated with several synonyms, including Limnanthemum nymphoides and Limnanthemum peltatum. Researchers may also identify this species as Limnanthes nymphoides or Limnanthes peltata depending on the classification system used. Furthermore, the name Menyanthes natans has been historically linked to this plant in older botanical records. Navigating these overlapping identities is essential for accurate identification and study within aquatic botany.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Nymphoides peltata is a fascinating aquatic specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is further categorized into the order Asterales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It serves as a representative of the genus Nymphoides, a group known for distinct leaf structures. Finally, its taxonomic identity is completed by its placement within the family Menyanthaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Menyanthaceae |
| Genus | Nymphoides |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Nymphoides peltata is a versatile aquatic species with a widespread geographic presence across several continents. In Africa, its distribution is notably concentrated within Northern Africa and the nation of Algeria. The plant also flourishes throughout the Asia-Temperate region, specifically spanning the Caucasus and the Transcaucasus. Its reach extends further into Central Asia, where it can be found inhabiting the landscapes of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. This broad range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various regional environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Nymphoides peltata is a versatile herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This aquatic plant exhibits significant variability in stature depending on its environment. While it can exist as a small specimen measuring only 0.03 m, it frequently reaches more substantial dimensions. Many individuals grow to a minimum height of 0.8 m as they mature. Ultimately, the plant can reach a maximum height of 1.6 m in ideal conditions.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Nymphoides peltata has long been utilized as a medicinal herb within various traditional medicine practices. This plant is specifically recognized for its ability to treat conditions such as swelling, polyuria, and strangury. Its therapeutic profile includes significant activity as both a diuretic and an antipyretic. Recent phytochemical investigations have isolated several flavonoids from its roots, including a new glycoside known as 3‴-O-foliamenthoyl-rutin. These findings continue to highlight the diverse biological potential of the species in modern pharmacological research.
Compounds
Nymphoides peltata is a medicinal herb traditionally used to treat various conditions such as swelling, polyuria, and strangury. Phytochemical investigations of its roots have revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including the flavonoids quercetin and rutin. Furthermore, the plant contains isoquercetin, which has demonstrated the ability to promote cell migration in wound-healing tests. Research also identified the iridoid glycoside menthiafolin within the plant's chemical profile. Additionally, the coumarin glycoside derivative scopolin was isolated, further highlighting the complex chemical makeup of this species.
Conditions
Nymphoides peltata has a long history of use in traditional medicines to treat various medical conditions. This plant is utilized to treat polyuria and strangury in medicinal applications. Additionally, it is effective in treating swelling throughout the body. The herb also functions as a diuretic to assist with fluid regulation. Finally, Nymphoides peltata is used as an antipyretic to help reduce fever.
Preparations
Parts used
Nymphoides peltata serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds, particularly when examining its medicinal root system. Phytochemical investigations of the plant's roots have successfully isolated various iridoid glycosides, coumarin glycoside derivatives, and flavonoids. Among these extracts, compounds such as scopolin, peltatamarin A, and the new flavonoid glycoside 3‴-O-foliamenthoyl-rutin have demonstrated notable biological activities. Specifically, these root-derived substances have shown great promise in promoting cell migration during in vitro wound healing tests. Ultimately, the chemical richness of the N. peltata root highlights the plant's potential for developing new therapeutic agents.