Schisandra sphenanthera
Schisandra sphenanthera · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Schisandra sphenanthera is a medicinal plant whose various parts, including the fruit, leaf, root, and stem, are utilized for their diverse therapeutic potential. It contains significant bioactive chemicals such as deoxyschizandrin, schisantherin A, (+)-anwulignan, and 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde. Through various preparations like polysaccharidic extracts and Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus (SSF), the plant demonstrates potent antiviral, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and antitumor activities. These properties make it a subject of interest in addressing complex health conditions such as cancer, hepatitis, and Alzheimer's disease. Consequently, research continues to explore its medicinal efficacy in managing oxidative stress and systemic diseases.
- Synonyms
- Schisandra Chinensis Var. Rubriflora · Schisandra Flaccidiramosa · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Schisandraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Schisandra sphenanthera is a versatile botanical species known by several distinct names across different cultures and languages. Commonly referred to as schisandra or lemonwood, it is easily identified by these widespread English monikers. In various regions, it may also be known by the traditional name hua zhong wu wei zi. Linguistic variations extend to the Czech term schizandra oranžová and the Japanese name ミナミゴミシ. This variety of nomenclature reflects the plant's broad global presence and diverse cultural significance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Schisandra sphenanthera is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this species is frequently identified by the name Schisandra chinensis var. rubriflora. It is also recognized under the synonym Schisandra flaccidiramosa in various botanical records. Furthermore, the plant is linked to the classification Schisandra grandiflora var. rubriflora. Navigating these diverse names is essential for researchers studying its unique biological relationships.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Schisandra sphenanthera is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Austrobaileyales, a group that highlights its unique evolutionary position. As a member of the family Schisandraceae, it shares specific structural characteristics with its relatives. Ultimately, this species is defined by its placement within the genus Schisandra.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Austrobaileyales |
| Family | Schisandraceae |
| Genus | Schisandra |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Schisandra sphenanthera is a plant species primarily found within the temperate regions of Asia. Its geographical range is concentrated within China, spanning several distinct climatic zones. Specifically, the species is distributed throughout the North-Central parts of the country. It also maintains a presence in the South-Central territories, demonstrating significant adaptability. Furthermore, its habitat extends into the Southeast, marking a broad coverage across the Chinese landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Schisandra sphenanthera is characterized by an obligatory climbing habit, meaning it relies entirely on external structures to support its growth and reach the light.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Schisandra sphenanthera is a prominent medicinal herb recognized for its diverse and potent pharmacological profile. Research highlights its significant antiviral activity, specifically through the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro. The plant also demonstrates strong hepatoprotective properties, which can help alleviate drug-induced liver injury by targeting the gut-liver axis. Additionally, its extracts exhibit powerful antioxidant and antitumor bioactivities that contribute to its therapeutic potential. Furthermore, the species provides neuroprotective effects, making it a valuable subject for treating various neurological and systemic conditions.
Compounds
Schisandra sphenanthera is a plant species characterized by a diverse profile of chemical constituents found within its fruits. Scientific analysis has confirmed that this plant contains important lignans, including deoxyschizandrin and schisantherin A. Beyond these specific lignans, research into petroleum ether extracts has identified the presence of beta-sitosterol. The chemical complexity of the species is further evidenced by the identification of compounds such as 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde. Additionally, the presence of 6-O-benzoylgomisin O highlights the unique phytochemical makeup of Schisandra sphenanthera.
Conditions
Schisandra sphenanthera demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating drug-induced liver injury (DILI), specifically by alleviating APAP-induced liver injury through the gut-liver axis. The plant is also recognized for its ability to treat Alzheimer's disease as part of its wide-ranging pharmacological applications. Research indicates that its natural compounds can treat SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro, offering a promising mechanism to inhibit the virus. Additionally, the plant exhibits strong antibacterial abilities, particularly through the triterpenoids found in its canes and leaves. These diverse biological activities highlight the plant's multifaceted medicinal value.
Preparations
Schisandra sphenanthera is prepared as F-SSP through a fermentation process assisted by Lactobacillus plantarum CICC 23121. This plant is also prepared as Fructus Schisandrae Sphenantherae, which serves as a traditional Chinese medicine. Furthermore, the dry ripe fruit of the species is prepared as Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus (SSF). Beyond these forms, Schisandra sphenanthera is prepared as polysaccharidic extracts, specifically denoted as SSP, through methods such as hot-water extraction. These various preparations are used to study different physicochemical properties and medicinal applications.
Parts used
Schisandra sphenanthera is an important medicinal plant known primarily for its bioactive lignans. While the fruit is the most preferred part for consumer use, the plant also contains valuable components in its leaves, stems, and roots. Research indicates that polysaccharides can be efficiently extracted from the fruit, offering potential benefits for regulating intestinal microflora. Furthermore, tissue-specific analyses show that lignans are preferentially enriched within the fruit and roots of the species. Understanding the metabolic pathways across these different plant parts provides a foundation for advancing the study of its biosynthetic genes.