Sphallerocarpus gracilis
Sphallerocarpus gracilis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a plant species that holds significant potential due to the bioactive compounds found within its seeds. Research focuses on the use of crude Sphallerocarpus gracilis polysaccharides (CSGP) as a potent prebiotic agent to support digestive health. When incorporated into probiotic fermented milk, these polysaccharides can effectively modulate intestinal flora to improve gut homeostasis. Specifically, CSGP supplementation helps regulate metabolic conditions by reducing levels of 3-Methylindole and Hydrogen Sulfide while inhibiting IL-8. Ultimately, these findings highlight the therapeutic promise of utilizing Sphallerocarpus gracilis derivatives in functional food applications.
- Synonyms
- Chaerophyllum Gracile · Sphallerocarpus Cyminum · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a unique botanical species known by a variety of diverse names across different linguistic traditions. In Mongolian contexts, it is referred to as Нарийн үхэргонид, reflecting its local identity. The Russian language identifies the plant as Обманчивоплодник тонкий, providing a distinct scientific descriptor. It also appears in Japanese scripts as ヅウエソウ, highlighting its presence in regional documentation. Finally, the Korean name 무산상자 completes this multifaceted collection of global identifiers for the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a botanical subject known for its complex history of taxonomic synonyms. Over time, this species has been identified under several different names, including Chaerophyllum cyminum and Chaerophyllum gracile. Researchers have also classified the plant as Conopodium cyminum and Myrrhis gracilis in various scientific records. Additionally, the name Sphallerocarpus cyminum has been utilized to describe this same organism in historical literature. Understanding these various relationships is essential for maintaining clarity in modern botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a unique botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is further organized into the order Apiales, showcasing its distinct evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Sphallerocarpus, it occupies a specialized niche in the natural world. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is completed by its placement within the family Apiaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Sphallerocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a plant species primarily distributed across the temperate regions of Asia. Within China, its presence is widespread, spanning from the North-Central territories to the South-Central provinces. The species also thrives in the northern reaches of the continent, specifically within Inner Mongolia and Manchuria. Additionally, its geographical range extends into the unique landscapes of Qinghai. This broad distribution highlights the adaptability of the plant across diverse Chinese environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a distinctive herb that maintains a self-supporting growth habit within its natural habitat. This plant typically reaches a modest stature, with heights generally ranging between 0.5 m and 1.2 m. Depending on environmental conditions, it often settles into a more specific height range between 0.85 m and 1.2 m. Such structural characteristics allow it to occupy its niche effectively without the need for external support. Ultimately, its manageable size and sturdy form define its presence in the landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a medicinal and edible plant valued for its significant nutritional properties. Recent research highlights that the polysaccharides derived from this plant exhibit strong prebiotic activity. When used in conjunction with probiotics, these polysaccharides effectively modulate intestinal flora by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria. This synergistic interaction also enhances the production of essential short-chain fatty acids and supports immune-related metabolites. Consequently, these findings suggest that the plant has great potential for use in functional fermented dairy products to improve gut health.
Compounds
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is a highly nutritious medicinal and edible plant native to China. Research has identified a specific polysaccharide within the plant, designated as SGP-1, which possesses a unique sphere-like chain conformation. This polysaccharide is primarily composed of mannose, glucose, and arabinose, making up a complex molecular structure. Studies demonstrate that SGP-1 provides significant protection to PC12 cells against oxidative injury caused by hydrogen peroxide. By inhibiting specific caspase activities, this component shows great promise as a functional agent for treating diseases derived from oxidative damage.
Conditions
Sphallerocarpus gracilis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by modulating intestinal metabolites such as 3-methylindole. The plant also plays a crucial role in protecting cellular health by reducing BRL hepatocyte apoptosis and general hepatocyte damage. Furthermore, its extracts are effective in treating CCl4-induced damage within the liver. Additionally, the plant aids in immune regulation by enhancing the levels of cytokines like IL-1β. These diverse biological activities highlight its multifaceted medicinal capabilities.
Preparations
Sphallerocarpus gracilis is utilized to produce crude Sphallerocarpus gracilis polysaccharides, also referred to as CSGP. These polysaccharides serve as a primary component in the development of functional food products. Specifically, the plant is prepared as probiotic fermented milk supplemented with 5-15 g L
Parts used
Sphallerocarpus gracilis contains seeds that serve as a rich source of bioactive phenolic compounds. Analysis reveals that these seeds are particularly high in chlorogenic acid, di-caffeoylquinic acid glucoside, and luteolin-7-O-glucoside. These extracted phenolics demonstrate significant potential in protecting DNA from damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, the seeds exhibit potent hepatoprotective properties by preventing liver injury and reducing hepatocyte apoptosis in experimental models. Ultimately, the medicinal value of the Sphallerocarpus gracilis seed makes it a promising candidate for treating and preventing hepatic damage.