Selaginella lepidophylla
Selaginella lepidophylla · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Selaginella lepidophylla is a unique plant species recognized for its diverse pharmacological potential in various medicinal applications. Research indicates that its methanolic and chloroform extracts possess significant antimicrobial properties against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Additionally, the plant demonstrates effectiveness in combating fungi through different preparation methods, including decoctions. Its biological activity also extends to promoting diuresis, making it a subject of interest for managing conditions related to diuresis. Consequently, studying its various extracts provides valuable insights into its therapeutic utility against multiple microbial threats.
- Synonyms
- Lepidoselaginella Lepidophylla · Lycopodioides Lepidophylla · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Selaginellaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Selaginella lepidophylla is a remarkable plant known by many evocative common names across different cultures. It is frequently referred to as the Doradilla or the Falsa rosa di Gerico in various regions. In other parts of the world, people affectionately call it the Flor de peña or the poetic Flower of stone. Its unique ability to revive after periods of extreme dryness has earned it the title of Pianta della resurrezione. These diverse names all celebrate the extraordinary resilience of this fascinating species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Selaginella lepidophylla is a remarkable plant that has been classified under several different scientific names throughout history. Due to various taxonomic revisions, it is frequently referred to by its synonyms, including Lepidoselaginella lepidophylla and Lycopodioides lepidophylla. Researchers have also documented the species under the names Lycopodium lepidophyllum and Selaginella rediviva. These overlapping designations highlight the evolving nature of botanical nomenclature and the complexity of plant classification. Understanding these various relationships is essential for anyone studying the diverse lineage of this unique species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Selaginella lepidophylla belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, highlighting its evolutionary lineage. It further belongs to the specific order Selaginellales, which helps scientists trace its biological development. This resilient plant is a member of the genus Selaginella, a group known for its distinct characteristics. Finally, its taxonomic placement is completed within the family Selaginellaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Lycopodiidae |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Selaginella lepidophylla is a remarkable plant primarily found throughout the vast regions of Northern America. Its distribution is most concentrated within Mexico, where it thrives across a diverse array of landscapes. Specifically, this species can be located in the central and northeastern territories of the country. It is also commonly documented throughout the northwest and southeast regions of the Mexican landscape. Furthermore, its presence extends into the coastal areas near the Mexico Gulf, showcasing its adaptability to various environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Selaginella lepidophylla grows in a distinct herb form that allows it to thrive in its natural environment. This resilient plant is entirely self-supporting, maintaining its own structure without the need for external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Selaginella lepidophylla is a Mexican medicinal plant that has demonstrated significant pharmacological potential through various studies. Research indicates that methanolic extracts of this species possess notable antimicrobial activity against both fungi and bacteria. Furthermore, the plant has been investigated for its physiological effects, specifically regarding its diuretic properties. While studies on decoctions have explored its impact on urine output and electrolytes, these findings help clarify its role in traditional medicine. Collectively, these biological activities highlight the diverse therapeutic value held by Selaginella lepidophylla.
Compounds
Selaginella lepidophylla is a medicinal plant species known for its various chemical constituents. Research has identified that this plant contains the biflavonoids amentoflavone and robustaflavone. In addition to these specific flavonoids, the species also contains the carbohydrate trehalose. These isolated compounds are central to understanding the chemical profile of the plant's aqueous decoction. Studying these relationships helps clarify the biological properties associated with this traditional Mexican medicinal species.
Conditions
Selaginella lepidophylla demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its ability to treat Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The plant also exhibits antimicrobial properties that allow it to treat various fungi. Furthermore, its extracts have been shown to treat chronic active gastritis by showing activity against Helicobacter pylori. Finally, while its effects on diuresis are studied in comparison to other species, it is recognized within the context of traditional treatments for renal functions.
Preparations
Selaginella lepidophylla is prepared as methanolic extracts to evaluate its antimicrobial properties against various bacteria and fungi. This plant is also prepared as a chloroform extract (CE) to investigate its protective molecular mechanisms in lithiasic rat models. Additionally, Selaginella lepidophylla is prepared as a decoction for studies regarding its diuretic activity and effects on urinary output. The use of methanolic extracts further allows researchers to determine the plant's inhibitory concentrations against pathogens like Helicobacter pylori. Through these different preparation methods, the diverse pharmacological potential of the species is extensively explored.