Opilia amentacea
Opilia amentacea · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (5 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Opilia amentacea is a versatile medicinal plant recognized for its significant therapeutic properties, including antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial activities. The leaves and stems of this species are primarily utilized to prepare various treatments, such as aqueous extracts and decoctions of the leaves. These preparations are highly valued for their ability to combat conditions like hypertension, jaundice, and malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Scientific interest in the plant is driven by the presence of beneficial chemical compounds, most notably flavonoids. Consequently, Opilia amentacea serves as a vital natural resource in the management of several diverse health ailments.
- Synonyms
- Ximenia Olacoides · Opilia Amentacea Var. Tomentella · 12 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Opiliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Opilia amentacea is a distinctive botanical species known by several different names across various regions. In certain linguistic contexts, it is referred to by the common name opília jahňadovitá. Additionally, the plant is recognized by the name shan you zi in other areas. These diverse naming conventions reflect the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance in different parts of the world. Understanding these various identifiers is essential for researchers and enthusiasts tracking the species globally.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Opilia amentacea is a taxonomically complex species that has been associated with several different botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature identifies various synonyms for the plant, including the name Groutia celtidifolia. It is also recognized under the designation Opilia angiensis, reflecting different historical classifications. Furthermore, specific varieties such as Opilia amentacea var. tomentella and Opilia celtidifolia var. sphaerocarpa have been linked to its lineage. These various designations, including Opilia celtidifolia, highlight the evolving nature of its botanical identity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Opilia amentacea is a distinctive botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this diverse kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Santalales, showcasing its evolutionary connections to other related species. This plant is a member of the Opiliaceae family, which highlights its specific biological characteristics. Finally, its taxonomic identity is solidified by its placement within the genus Opilia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Opiliaceae |
| Genus | Opilia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Opilia amentacea is a plant species with a broad distribution spanning several key regions across the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, it can be found growing within the territories of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its range also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it is established in Chad. Additionally, the species is documented as being native to the diverse landscapes of Ethiopia. This wide geographic presence highlights the plant's ability to thrive across various East and Northeast African ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Opilia amentacea is a unique plant characterized by its distinctive shrub growth form. This species follows an obligatory climbing habit, relying on other structures for support as it ascends. Depending on its specific environment, its stature can vary significantly in size. While some specimens may reach a minimum height of only 0.5 meters, others can grow to a maximum of 7 meters. In certain optimal conditions, the plant is even capable of reaching heights of 9 meters or more.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Opilia amentacea is a traditional medicinal plant that has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential across several biological activities. Research into its flavonoid-rich fractions indicates that it possesses notable antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antihypertensive properties. Studies using animal models of type 2 diabetes have shown its ability to influence carbohydrate metabolism and assist in lowering total cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the genus exhibits broader medicinal value, with related species demonstrating antiplasmodial and hepatoprotective effects. Collectively, these findings highlight the diverse pharmacological importance of Opilia species in managing various metabolic and infectious conditions.
Compounds
Opilia amentacea is a traditional medicinal plant from Burkina Faso that has been found to contain significant amounts of flavonoids within its leaves. Research indicates that these flavonoid-rich fractions possess notable antioxidant capacities, which were evaluated through various biochemical assays. In studies involving animal models of type 2 diabetes mellitus, the plant demonstrated the ability to decrease total cholesterol concentrations. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic value of the plant in managing metabolic complications like antihyperglycemia and antilipidemia. Although its effects were slightly less pronounced than those of Trichilia emetica, Opilia amentacea remains a promising subject for antidiabetic research.
Conditions
Opilia amentacea demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through various medicinal properties identified in scientific studies. The plant has been shown to treat antihyperglycemia and antihypertensive conditions, making it relevant to the management of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, its flavonoid-rich fractions exhibit antilipidemia activities by helping to decrease total cholesterol concentrations. Research also indicates that components from the Opilia genus can provide protection against Streptococcus pneumoniae infection by stimulating the innate immune system. Furthermore, the study of related species within the same genus highlights the antimalarial potential against Plasmodium falciparum.
Preparations
Opilia amentacea is prepared as a decoction of the leaves for various medicinal uses. This plant is also prepared as Oc50A1.I.A, a pectic polysaccharide used to demonstrate protective activity against infections. Research further utilizes Opilia amentacea as an aqueous extract to study its chemical properties. Additionally, the plant is prepared as an extract to evaluate its therapeutic potential in animal models. Finally, flavonoid-rich fractions are derived from the leaves of Opilia amentacea to investigate its antidiabetic and antioxidant capacities.
Parts used
Opilia amentacea is a medicinal plant that holds significant therapeutic interest due to the bioactive compounds found within its structure. Research indicates that the plant contains valuable flavonoid-rich fractions derived specifically from its leaves. These leaf extracts have demonstrated notable potential in managing type 2 diabetes, particularly through their ability to decrease total cholesterol levels in animal models. In addition to the leaf, the plant's stem is recognized as a key anatomical component of its biological makeup. Together, these parts contribute to the complex chemical profile that makes Opilia amentacea a subject of pharmacological study.