Ophiorrhiza nicobarica

Ophiorrhiza nicobarica, commonly known as the Nicobar climbing plant, is a significant medicinal herb native to the tropical regions of India. Valued in traditional medicine, its roots possess potent bioactive properties used to treat various ailments, including inflammation and digestive issues, making it a vital subject for ethnobotanical research.

  • Scientific name: Ophiorrhiza nicobarica
  • Family: Rubiaceae
  • Native range: Asia-Tropical

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it is organized under the order Gentianaales and the family Rubiaceae. Finally, its specific taxonomic designation falls under the genus Ophiorrhiza.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Gentianales WCVP
Family Rubiaceae WCVP
Genus Ophiorrhiza WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Ophiorrhiza nicobarica, is referred to by various common names depending on the linguistic and regional context. In English, it is frequently called the Nicobar ophiorrhiza, while in Hindi, it is known as Nilgiri sabja.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant has a very specific and limited geographical range within the natural world. It is primarily found in the Indo-China region, specifically within the unique ecosystems of the Nicobar Islands. Due to this localized presence, its habitat is confined to these particular island territories. Such a narrow distribution suggests that the species is highly adapted to the local climate and soil conditions of the Nicobar archipelago. Consequently, understanding its environment is essential for the study of this medicinal species.

Region Area Source
Indo-China Nicobar Is. WCVP

Chemicals

Ophiorrhiza nicobarica has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include 7-methoxy-1-methyl-4,9-dihydro-3H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole.

Total chemicals
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
7-methoxy-1-methyl-4,9-dihydro-3H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Medicinal Uses

Ophiorrhiza nicobarica has 2 reported medicinal uses identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include HSV-2, Herpes genitalis.

Total uses
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Uses

Use Sources Confidence
HSV-2 1 ★☆☆☆☆
Herpes genitalis 1 ★☆☆☆☆