Persicaria perfoliata
Persicaria perfoliata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Persicaria perfoliata is a botanical species recognized for its diverse range of biological activities, including antibacterial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. Scientific investigations into this plant often focus on its ethyl acetate extract to isolate its potent bioactive components. Research has successfully identified key chemical constituents such as 13-epitorulosal, 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde, catechin, and methyl caffeoate within its structure. These specific compounds contribute significantly to the plant's therapeutic potential and medicinal value. Understanding these chemical profiles provides essential insights into the pharmacological applications of this versatile species.
- Synonyms
- Polygonum Arifolium Var. Perfoliatum · Ampelygonum Perfoliatum · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Persicaria perfoliata is a versatile plant known by a variety of regional and linguistic identifiers across the globe. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently recognized by its common name, Asiatic tearthumb. Moving into Dutch-speaking regions, the species is referred to as Doorgroeide duizendknoop or Gestekelde duizendknoop. German speakers identify the plant as Durchwachsener Knöterich, reflecting its specific botanical characteristics. Finally, in other parts of the world, such as Indonesia, it is known by the name Ekor setan.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Persicaria perfoliata is a botanical subject that has been identified by many different names throughout scientific history. It is formally recognized under several synonyms, including the designation Ampelygonum perfoliatum. The plant has also been cataloged as Chylocalyx perfoliatus and Echinocaulon perfoliatus in various taxonomic records. Furthermore, researchers have previously referred to this species as Fagopyrum perfoliatum. Finally, its complex lineage includes the classification of Polygonum arifolium var. perfoliatum.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Persicaria perfoliata is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized under the order Caryophyllales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a prominent representative of the genus Persicaria. Finally, its botanical identity is solidified by its placement within the family Polygonaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Persicaria perfoliata is a resilient species with a broad distribution spanning various regions across Asia-Temperate. Its presence is firmly established within the Caucasus and Transcaucasus areas. The plant is widely found throughout China, including the North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast provinces. Furthermore, its range extends southward to the tropical island of Hainan. This diverse geographical spread highlights the adaptability of the species across different Asian landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Persicaria perfoliata is a self-supporting herb that adds structure to any garden setting. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.8 meters, providing a lush and vertical presence. Its sturdy growth form makes it an easy addition to various landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Persicaria perfoliata is an herbaceous medicinal plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family that possesses a diverse range of biological properties. Research indicates that this species exhibits significant antioxidant activity, which can be enhanced through the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates notable antibacterial capabilities against various pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. It also shows promise in antidiabetic applications, specifically through the inhibition of α-amylase. Finally, the plant and its derivatives have demonstrated cytotoxic effects, particularly against HeLa cell lines, highlighting its potential in anticancer research.
Compounds
Persicaria perfoliata, also known as Polygonum perfoliatum, serves as a rich source of diverse chemical constituents within its ethyl acetate extract. Detailed phytochemical analysis has successfully isolated several key compounds, including 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde and methyl caffeoate. The plant also contains significant amounts of protocatechuic aldehyde and catechin. Research utilizing advanced chromatography and spectroscopic methods has helped to clarify the complex structural profiles of these substances. Notably, the identification of certain compounds like catechin and 13-epitorulosal represents significant findings in the study of this species.
Conditions
Persicaria perfoliata, commonly known as speedweed, contains substances that effectively inhibit the conidial germination of the fungal pathogen Alternaria brassicicola. Among sixty-five tested oriental medicinal plants, this species provided the most potent inhibitory extract against the fungus. These inhibitory compounds are water-insoluble but can be successfully extracted using ethanol or methanol. The extract has demonstrated significant efficacy in controlling black leaf spot disease in spoon cabbage caused by A. brassicicola. Research suggests the extract contains at least two distinct inhibitory substances with molecular weights ranging between 500 and 1,000.
Preparations
Persicaria perfoliata is prepared as an ethyl acetate extract to facilitate the study of its chemical constituents. Researchers utilized this specific extraction method to isolate and purify various compounds from the plant material. Following the preparation, chromatography techniques such as silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, and semi-preparative HPLC were employed for separation. This process led to the identification of ten distinct compounds, including quercetin and catechin. The use of ethyl acetate extraction was fundamental in uncovering several substances that were isolated from this plant for the first time.