Oenothera odorata
Oenothera odorata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Oenothera odorata is a botanical species that has gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties in managing complex health conditions. Research suggests that components derived from its seed may play a role in addressing inflammation and various forms of cancer. Specifically, studies have explored its efficacy in relation to lung adenocarcinoma and melanoma. Through specialized preparations such as essential oil (ESOO) and concentrated extracts, the plant's bioactive compounds are harnessed for medicinal investigation. This makes Oenothera odorata a significant subject of interest in the field of natural pharmacology.
- Synonyms
- Oenothera Odoratissima · Oenothera Undulata · 12 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Oenothera odorata is a captivating plant recognized by a variety of unique names across different languages and cultures. In Germany, it is affectionately known as the Duftende Nachtkerze, while in other regions, it is referred to as Onagra Perfumada. This botanical beauty is also identified by its Russian name, Ослинник душистый, highlighting its distinctive aromatic qualities. Moving through Arabic-speaking areas, it is called أخدرية عطرية, showcasing its widespread presence. Finally, in China, the species is identified as 南美月见草, completing its diverse linguistic identity.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Oenothera odorata is a botanical subject that is frequently identified through several different taxonomic synonyms. In scientific literature, this species is sometimes referred to as Oenothera ibari or Oenothera micans. It is also closely associated with the classification Oenothera mollissima subsp. odorata. Furthermore, researchers may encounter specific variations such as Oenothera odorata var. glabrescens or Oenothera odorata var. glaucescens. Understanding these various naming conventions is essential for accurate plant identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Oenothera odorata belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, showcasing the vast complexity of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Myrtales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the Onagraceae family, a group known for its unique floral characteristics. Finally, it is placed within the genus Oenothera, marking its specific botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Oenothera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Oenothera odorata exhibits a remarkably broad geographical distribution that spans several diverse continents and climates. Its presence can be found across Africa and the Macaronesian islands, including the lush landscapes of Madeira. In the Eastern Hemisphere, the species thrives throughout temperate Asia and Siberia, while also inhabiting the tropical regions of the Indian Subcontinent and the West Himalaya. European populations are notably established within Southeastern Europe, particularly in Romania. Finally, its range extends to the Southern Hemisphere, reaching into the northeastern parts of Argentina in South America.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Oenothera odorata is a delicate herb characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting structure. This resilient plant maintains a compact presence in the garden, reaching a maximum height of only 0.6 meters. Its low-growing growth form makes it an ideal choice for adding texture to smaller landscape spaces.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Oenothera odorata serves several therapeutic purposes, including the use of its extract in herbal medicine to treat inflammation. Research indicates that the plant can treat cancer by inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells through metabolic alterations. Specifically, it has demonstrated the ability to treat lung adenocarcinoma and melanoma by inhibiting glycolysis and cellular respiration. The plant also functions to treat guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) levels by increasing them to induce vasorelaxation. Furthermore, its extract is shown to treat Akt expression through the activation of the Akt-eNOS-sGC signaling pathway.
Preparations
Oenothera odorata is prepared as an ethanol extract of seeds, which is specifically referred to as ESOO. This ESOO preparation is utilized to study vasorelaxation through the activation of the Akt-eNOS-sGC pathway. Additionally, Oenothera odorata is prepared as a general extract used in herbal medicine to inhibit inflammation. Scientific evaluations of this extract have revealed its potential anti-tumor properties through the inhibition of glycolysis and cellular respiration. Various fractions of the Oenothera odorata extract, such as butanol-soluble and water-soluble components, are also studied for their ability to inhibit tumor cell growth.
Parts used
Oenothera odorata contains seeds that possess significant pharmacological potential for cardiovascular health. Research indicates that an ethanol extract derived specifically from these seeds can induce vasorelaxation in arterial tissues. This biological effect is achieved through the activation of the Akt-eNOS-sGC signaling pathway. By increasing cGMP levels, the seed extract effectively promotes the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle in a concentration-dependent manner. Consequently, the seeds of this evening primrose species serve as a vital component in understanding endothelium-dependent signaling mechanisms.