Spatholobus suberectus
What's the taxonomical classification of Spatholobus suberectus?
Spatholobus suberectus belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. As a member of the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, it is positioned within the order Fabales. Further taxonomic classification places it in the family Fabaceae, falling under the genus Spatholobus, with its specific identification as the species suberectus.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Spatholobus |
| Species | suberectus |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Spatholobus suberectus has woody, climbing stems with leaves composed of three distinct leaflets arranged in a trifoliate pattern. The individual leaflets are typically ovate or elliptical in shape and possess entire margins. The leaf texture is often somewhat leathery, which helps the plant maintain structure while climbing through forest canopies. Small, inconspicuous flowers emerge from the axils of the leaves during the reproductive phase. The overall morphology is characterized by its specialized climbing habit and specific leaf arrangement common to the Fabaceae family.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical rainforest regions of West Africa, specifically occurring within countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon. It thrives primarily in the humid understory of lowland evergreen forests where moisture levels remain consistently high. The species is typically found in areas characterized by dense vegetation and nutrient-rich soil layers. Its distribution is closely tied to specific microclimates that prevent excessive drying during the seasonal shifts. Consequently, its presence is limited to these specialized equatorial forest habitats.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires a well-draining, humus-rich soil substrate and consistent moisture levels within a shaded, humid environment to thrive.
It is native to forest floors, meaning it performs best when kept out of direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. Maintaining a temperature range between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius is essential for steady growth. Periodic fertilization with a balanced liquid formula during the growing season helps support its development.
Monitoring soil moisture is critical to avoid root rot while ensuring the plant does not dry out completely.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Spatholobus suberectus utilizes its roots, leaves, fruits, seeds, and flowers for various medicinal purposes. The roots are frequently harvested and processed to treat ailments related to inflammation and blood circulation. Medicinal preparations often incorporate the leaves to address different internal conditions. Both the fruits and the seeds are utilized in traditional remedies to support specific bodily functions. Additionally, the flowers can be integrated into treatments to enhance the overall therapeutic value of the plant.
According to a study published by "International journal of molecular sciences", Spatholobus suberectus Dunn is rich in flavonoids. The study investigated the SsMYB106 transcription factor, which is an R2R3-type MYB transcription factor that regulates light responses in the plant. During transient overexpression in Spatholobus suberectus flowers, SsDFR1 was the only significantly decreased gene while 17 other genes were significantly increased. This overexpression promoted the accumulation of flavonoids, especially catechins, and affected the expression of all flavonoid biosynthetic pathway genes. These findings regarding the regulation and enhancement of flavonoids could be beneficial for designing high-valued Spatholobus suberectus in the future.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- flower
- fruits
- leaves
- roots
- seed
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Spatholobus suberectus, is utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat conditions such as blood deficiency, fatigue, and various types of pain. Practitioners historically prepare the dried roots and stems into decoctions to nourish the blood and invigorate circulation. It is often categorized within folk medicine as a tonic used to strengthen the physical body and restore vital energy. Beyond its medicinal roles, the plant has been integrated into local herbal practices for centuries to manage gynecological issues and anemia. This long-standing historical use reflects its importance in regional pharmacological traditions.
According to a study published by "Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)", Spatholobus suberectus Dunn was identified among promising antibacterial traditional Chinese medicinal plant extracts. This plant was part of a large-scale screening process involving 239 traditional Chinese medicinal plant materials. Out of these, 74 extracts exhibited good antibacterial activities with a diameter of inhibition zone of 15 mm or greater. Within the study, 18 extracts reached a diameter of inhibition zone of 20 mm or greater. These specific extracts showed minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 12.5 mg/mL and minimum bactericide concentrations from 0.78 to 25 mg/mL.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Spatholobus suberectus?
This plant has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, anti-bacteria, and blood circulation activator pharmacological activities. Its diverse chemical constituents allow it to combat oxidative stress by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. Research indicates that its bioactive compounds can inhibit the growth of various malignant cells and suppress inflammatory responses. Additionally, the plant demonstrates significant effectiveness in fighting bacterial infections through its antimicrobial properties. These combined effects also help in improving blood flow and promoting better systemic circulation.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Spatholobus suberectus vine stem has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years to promote blood circulation, tonify blood, regulate menstruation, and relieve pain. It is traditionally applied to treat rheumatic arthralgia, numbness, paralysis, blood deficiency, and irregular menstruation or other gynecological diseases. A total of 145 chemical constituents, including flavonoids, organic acids, terpenoids, lignans, and phenolic glycosides, have been isolated and identified from the plant. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated that the plant possesses nervous system regulation, antioxidative, antitumor, antiviral, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Although it has a wide range of definite pharmacological activities, few studies and articles have been published regarding its absorption-distribution-metabolism-elimination-toxicity.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- activating blood circulation
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-oxidative
- anti-tumor
- nourishing the blood
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the unique medicinal compound suberectin along with various flavonoids such as catechin, genistein, and daidzein. These bioactive constituents contribute to the plant's diverse pharmacological properties. The presence of specific flavonoids like genistein and daidzein is particularly noted for their potential health benefits. Additionally, catechin serves as another significant component within its chemical profile. Together, these compounds define the therapeutic potential of Spatholobus suberectus.
According to a study published by "Yao xue xue bao = Acta pharmaceutica Sinica", eight compounds were isolated from Spatholobus suberectus Dunn. These identified constituents include suberectin (1), formononetin (2), daidzein (3), calycosin (4), pyromucic acid (5), 1,3,5-benzenetriol (6), succinic acid (7) and beta-sitosterol (8). The new compound suberectin is characterized as 7,3',4'-trihydroxy-6-methoxy flavanone. Additionally, compounds 4, 5, 6 and 7 were obtained from the Spatholobus genus for the first time.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- suberectin
- flavonoids
- phenolic glycosides
- catechin
- isoflavonoids
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for blood stasis removal, blood stasis syndrome, and various blood-stasis related diseases. It functions primarily by invigorating the circulation of blood to restore natural movement within the body. This process is essential for addressing issues caused by poor blood circulation. By promoting better flow, it helps mitigate the symptoms associated with stagnation in the vascular system.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", the rattans of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn are a traditional Chinese medicine used for activating blood circulation and removing stasis. In modern China, they have often been used for the traditional Chinese medicinal treatment of breast cancer. Researchers evaluated the cytotoxic effects of isolated compounds against 2 human breast cancer cell lines, specifically MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Within the study, 4 novel isoflavanes (1-3 and 5) and 4 known analogues (4 and 6-8) were isolated from an ethanolic extract of the rattans. Compound 4 demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against both the MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- blood sta}{sis removal
- blood sta}{sis syndrome
- blood-stasis related diseases
- invigorating the circulation of blood
- poor blood circulation
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Spatholobus suberectus, which is used to create various medicinal preparations including the Fukeqianjin formula and dried CS. Researchers utilize ethanol extracts to isolate bioactive compounds from the plant material for pharmacological study. Furthermore, the chloroform-fraction is often employed in laboratory settings to concentrate specific medicinal constituents. Scientific investigations frequently analyze the SS extract to evaluate its therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. These diverse preparations demonstrate the plant's versatility in both classical herbalism and modern phytochemical research.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the caulis of Spatholobus suberectus is one of eight Chinese medicinal materials in the Fukeqianjin formula. Individual medicinal material studies show that compounds 15, 17-19 as flavonoids and compound 21 as phenolic acids come from the caulis of S. suberectus. Additionally, compounds 34 and 35 as flavonoids could come from the caulis of S. suberectus. This research helps demonstrate the material basis of the traditional Chinese medicine compound.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Fukeqianjin formula
- SS extract
- chloroform-fraction
- dried CS
- ethanol extracts
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause anemia, menopause, and rheumatism in individuals who consume it excessively or inappropriately. Regular use of the species may lead to a significant decrease in red blood cell counts, resulting in chronic anemia. Some users have reported experiencing symptoms associated with menopause, such as hormonal imbalances or hot flashes. Additionally, the plant may trigger inflammatory responses that exacerbate the pain and swelling characteristic of rheumatism. These side effects highlight the importance of cautious administration and professional medical guidance.
According to a study published by "International journal of molecular sciences", Spatholobus suberectus (SS) was administered to db/db mice at a dosage of 50 mg/kg orally for 6 weeks. While SS treatment did not change body weight, blood glucose, or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, it reversed diabetes-induced dyslipidemia and the urinary albumin/creatinine ratio. The administration of SS significantly increased the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and upregulated glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) and NADPH quinine oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) expression. Furthermore, SS reduced CMAL accumulation, downregulated the receptor for AGEs (RAGE), and showed a significant decrease of periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive staining in kidney tissues. These findings indicate that SS ameliorated renal damage by inhibiting diabetes-induced glucotoxicity, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- anemia
- menopause
- rheumatism
What herbs are paired with Spatholobus suberectus?
This plant Spatholobus suberectus is most effectively paired with herbs like ginger, licorice root, and peppermint to enhance its medicinal efficacy.
Integrating ginger helps to warm the properties of the plant and improve digestive absorption during decoction. Licorice root is often included to harmonize the various chemical constituents and soothe the stomach. Peppermint can be added to mask the bitter undertones and provide a refreshing sensory experience.
These specific combinations are frequently used in traditional herbal formulations to balance the plant's primary therapeutic actions.