Piper amalago var. amalago

Piper amalago var. amalago · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Piper amalago var. amalago is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique physiological characteristics and ecological presence. Researchers frequently study this variety to unlock its potential biological properties through various scientific methods. One of the primary methods of investigation involves the creation of aqueous extracts to analyze its chemical composition. These water-based preparations serve as a vital medium for exploring the plant's bioactive components. Understanding these extracts is essential for advancing knowledge regarding the medicinal or nutritional value of this specific taxon.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Ottonia Plantaginea · Piper Pseudoamalago · 26 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Piperaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Synonyms

Piper amalago var. amalago is a complex botanical subject that has been classified under several different names throughout history. Taxonomists have frequently associated this variety with the synonyms Artanthe plantaginea and Artanthe saururoides. Furthermore, its scientific identity has been linked to various forms within the genus Enckea, including Enckea amalago var. hirtella and Enckea plantaginea. Research also connects the plant to the name Enckea sieberi, highlighting the evolving nature of its classification. Understanding these shifting relationships is essential for accurate identification and botanical study.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Piper amalago var. amalago is a distinctive biological entity that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Piperales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Piper, it exhibits specific morphological traits characteristic of its group. Finally, this variety is nested within the family Piperaceae, completing its formal botanical hierarchy.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Piperales
Family Piperaceae
Genus Piper

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Piper amalago var. amalago is a notable plant species found throughout various regions of Northern America and Mexico. Its distribution spans a significant portion of the Mexican landscape, including the Central and Gulf regions. The plant also thrives in the Northeast and Southeast areas of the country. Furthermore, its presence extends into the Southwest, showcasing its adaptability to diverse environments. This widespread range highlights the ecological importance of the variety across these diverse territories.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Piper amalago var. amalago exhibits significant biological activity against the mosquito species Anopheles gambiae. Aqueous extracts of this plant specifically inhibit the metabolic enzymes CYP6P9a, CYP6M2, and CYP6P3. The inhibitory effect on CYP6P9a is characterized by an IC50 value of 2.61 ± 0.17 μg/ml. Furthermore, the plant treats CYP6M2 and CYP6P3 with IC50 values of 4.3 ± 0.42 μg/ml and 5.84 ± 0.42 μg/ml, respectively. These interactions demonstrate the plant's potential to serve as a natural synergist by targeting enzymes associated with insecticide resistance.

Preparations

Piper amalago var. amalago is prepared as aqueous extracts to investigate its potential as an insecticidal synergist. These specific aqueous extracts demonstrated the ability to inhibit several recombinant anopheline cytochrome P450 enzymes. Specifically, the extracts inhibited CYP6P9a, CYP6M2, and CYP6P3 with recorded IC50 values of 2.61, 4.3, and 5.84 μg/ml, respectively. By inhibiting these metabolic enzymes, the aqueous extracts help reduce the insecticide metabolism in mosquitoes like Anopheles gambiae. This preparation serves as a vital component in developing natural tools to overcome insecticide resistance in malaria vectors.

Parts used