Phellodendron amurense
Phellodendron amurense · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Phellodendron amurense is a versatile medicinal plant whose therapeutic potential is derived from its leaves, fruit, roots, and seeds. The plant contains significant bioactive chemicals, including berberine, palmatine, chlorogenic acid, and isorhamnetin. Various preparations, such as extracts of the bark, Phellodendri Cortex, and TA pharmacopuncture, are utilized to harness its pharmacological properties. Its biological activities are diverse, ranging from (+)-inotropic and ACE-inhibitor effects to antioxidant and adrenocorticotrophic functions. Consequently, it is studied for its impact on conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, anger, and angiogenesis.
- Synonyms
- Phellodendron Amurense Var. Suberosum · Phellodendron Amurense Var. Lavalleei · 15 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Phellodendron amurense is a versatile species known globally by a variety of different common names. In English-speaking regions, it is most frequently referred to as the Amur cork-tree or simply the Amur corktree. This plant also carries distinct regional identities, such as the Amur mantar ağacı in Turkish contexts. Moving into German-speaking areas, it is recognized as the Amur-Korkbaum. Finally, the species is identified in Finnish as the Amurinkorkkipuu, showcasing its wide international recognition.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Phellodendron amurense is a complex species that features several botanical synonyms within its taxonomic classification. Among its various forms, researchers recognize Phellodendron amurense f. insulare and Phellodendron amurense f. molle. The plant also encompasses distinct variations such as Phellodendron amurense f. suberosum and Phellodendron amurense var. lavalleei. Furthermore, the nomenclature includes Phellodendron amurense var. molle to account for specific morphological differences. Understanding these diverse synonyms is essential for accurate identification and study of the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Phellodendron amurense is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the order Sapindales, showcasing its complex evolutionary lineage. This plant is a prominent member of the genus Phellodendron, which distinguishes it from other similar species. Ultimately, its specific botanical identity is solidified by its placement within the Rutaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Phellodendron |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Phellodendron amurense is a resilient species widely distributed across various regions of the Asia-temperate zone. Its natural range extends through Central Asia, where it can be found in countries such as Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Within China, the plant maintains a broad presence, spanning from the North-Central territories to the Southeast regions. It is also well-established in the northern reaches of the country, specifically throughout Inner Mongolia. This extensive geographic footprint highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse Asian climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Phellodendron amurense is a self-supporting tree that establishes a strong presence in its environment. This species typically reaches a mature height ranging from a minimum of 10 meters to a maximum of 15 meters. Its sturdy growth form allows it to stand tall as a significant component of the forest canopy. Through these physical characteristics, the plant demonstrates a robust and reliable structural development.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Phellodendron amurense is a highly valued medicinal plant known for its rich profile of specialized metabolites and bioactive compounds. The species serves as an essential source of bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, including berberine, palmatine, and jatrorrhizine. Beyond these alkaloids, the plant's leaves contain significant amounts of chlorogenic acid, which provides notable antioxidant activity. Research also identifies other important polyphenols within the plant, such as isorhamnetin, which contribute to its diverse chemical makeup. These diverse relationships between the plant and its constituent compounds underscore its significant importance in traditional Chinese medicine and modern pharmaceutical research.
Conditions
Phellodendron amurense treats local graft-versus-host reactions through the suppressive effects of its active alkaloids, magnoflorine and phellodendrine, on the cellular immune response. This plant also treats 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene treated mice by utilizing a novel glutathione S-transferase-activating peptide that provides a clear detoxicative effect. Furthermore, Phellodendron amurense treats ACAT activity by inhibiting the enzyme to reduce cholesteryl ester formation in human hepatocytes. Research into phytochemicals suggests that natural compounds, which can include alkaloids found in such plants, offer potential for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting NF-κB pathways. Finally, supplementation with Phellodendron amurense bark extract has been shown to treat anger by significantly improving psychological mood state parameters and reducing cortisol exposure in stressed individuals.
Preparations
Phellodendron amurense is prepared as extracts of bark to study the inhibition of prostatic contractility. This plant is also processed into Phellodendri Cortex by removing the outer bark and cork layers to be used as a crude medicinal agent. In various pharmacological tests, a Phellodendron amurense extract is utilized to assess smooth muscle relaxant activity. One specific preparation involves the use of boiling water, though it was noted to be less effective than other solvents in certain studies. Finally, the plant serves as one of seven herbs used to create TA pharmacopuncture for the treatment of acute sprains.
Parts used
Phellodendron amurense is a versatile broad-leaved tree that serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds across its various anatomical structures. While the inner bark is traditionally harvested for medicinal use, other parts such as the leaves, fruit, and seeds also play crucial roles in the plant's biological and economic profile. Research into the leaves has revealed high levels of chlorogenic acid and polyphenols, offering potential for antioxidant nutraceuticals. Furthermore, the root system maintains complex metabolic relationships with surrounding microbial communities, which is essential for its specialized chemical production. By developing standardized testing for seed quality and exploring the value of all plant components, scientists aim to maximize the sustainable cultivation of this valuable species.