Pyrola japonica
Pyrola japonica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pyrola japonica is a perennial herb known for its distinct botanical characteristics and medicinal potential. Scientific investigations into this species have focused specifically on the chemical properties found within its root system. Researchers have successfully isolated an ethyl acetate soluble fraction to study its bioactive constituents. One notable chemical identified in these studies is 5,8-dihydrochimaphilin. Understanding these components is essential for exploring the plant's broader pharmacological applications.
- Synonyms
- Pyrola Japonica F. Viridicalyx · Pyrola Coreana · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Pyrola japonica is a distinctive plant known by several evocative common names across different regions. In Japan, it is frequently referred to as イチヤクソウ or 日本鹿蹄草, both of which highlight its unique botanical identity. It is also recognized by the name 鹿衔草, adding to its rich linguistic variety. Moving to Korea, the species is commonly called 노루발, reflecting its presence in local flora. These diverse names illustrate the cultural and regional ways in which this specific plant is identified.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pyrola japonica is a complex species characterized by a wide array of botanical synonyms that reflect its diverse classification history. Within scientific literature, it is frequently identified under various names, including Pyrola asarifolia var. japonica and Pyrola coreana. Taxonomists have also categorized different forms of the plant as Pyrola incarnata var. japonica and Pyrola japonica f. viridicalyx. Furthermore, the name Pyrola rotundifolia var. albiflora is recognized as another synonym within its taxonomic framework. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification and study of this plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pyrola japonica belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Ericales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the genus Pyrola, a group defined by distinct morphological traits. Ultimately, it is nested within the Ericaceae family, connecting it to a wide array of related woody and herbaceous species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Pyrola |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pyrola japonica is a resilient species widely distributed throughout the temperate regions of Asia. Its presence is particularly prominent across various provinces in China, ranging from the North-Central territories to the lush Southeast. The plant also thrives in the northern reaches of Inner Mongolia and the expansive landscapes of Manchuria. Beyond mainland China, its natural habitat extends across Eastern Asia to include the islands of Japan. This broad geographical range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse temperate environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pyrola japonica is a compact, self-supporting plant that exhibits a distinct shrub-like growth form. This species typically maintains a very modest stature within its natural habitat. While its height can vary, it generally ranges from a minimum of 0.15 m to a maximum of 0.3 m. More specifically, many specimens tend to cluster around a height of 0.225 m. These physical characteristics make it a subtle yet sturdy addition to its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Pyrola japonica is prepared as an ethyl acetate soluble fraction to facilitate the isolation of specific chemical compounds. From the roots of this plant, researchers extracted a fraction containing the new naphthoquinone 5,8-dihydrochimaphilin. This specific preparation process allowed for the identification of compound 1 alongside chimaphilin. The use of an ethyl acetate soluble fraction was essential for isolating these naphthoquinone derivatives. Consequently, this method directly enabled the discovery and subsequent analysis of the plant's chemical constituents.
Parts used
Pyrola japonica contains specific chemical compounds that can be identified through careful botanical analysis. Researchers recently focused on the root of this plant to isolate unique organic substances. During this process, a new naphthoquinone known as 5,8-dihydrochimaphilin was successfully extracted from an ethyl acetate soluble fraction. This discovery highlights the complex chemical profile residing within the plant's root structure. Such findings provide valuable insights into the natural secondary metabolites produced by this species.