Tagetes lucida
Tagetes lucida · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Tagetes lucida is a versatile plant whose medicinal potential is derived primarily from its leaves and roots. Through various preparations such as TlAq, TlEA, TlHex, and TlMet, the plant reveals a complex profile of bioactive chemicals including 7-Methoxycoumarin, DF, Dimethylfraxetin, and Herniarin. These compounds contribute to significant pharmacological activities, specifically acting as (-)-Chronotropic, (-)-Inotropic, ACE-Inhibitor, and AChE-Inhibitor agents. Consequently, this species shows promise in addressing diverse biological conditions such as cognitive impairment, enterobacterial infections, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Understanding these multifaceted properties provides a foundation for exploring its therapeutic applications in modern medicine.
- Synonyms
- Tagetes Gilletii · Tagetes Anethina · 6 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Tagetes lucida is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of regional names. It is frequently called Mexican mint marigold, reflecting its fragrant and aromatic qualities. In different parts of North America, it is also commonly referred to as Mexican-tarragon or Texas-tarragon. Some enthusiasts and local communities may identify it as anisillo. Finally, the plant is occasionally known by the name glanstagetes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Tagetes lucida is a botanical subject that has been identified through various scientific names over time. Due to different taxonomic classifications, it is recognized by several synonyms, including Tagetes anethina and Tagetes florida. Researchers also frequently encounter the names Tagetes gilletii and Tagetes pineda when documenting this species. Furthermore, the specific form known as Tagetes lucida f. florida is often cited in botanical literature. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Tagetes lucida belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of the living world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Asterales, a group known for its distinct floral characteristics. This plant is a proud member of the family Asteraceae, which is widely recognized for its complex flower structures. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Tagetes, which defines its unique botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tagetes |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Tagetes lucida exhibits a remarkably broad geographical range that spans across multiple continents. In North America, the species is widely established throughout Mexico, including its central, gulf, northeast, and northwest regions. Beyond the Americas, its reach extends significantly into the tropical regions of Asia. Specifically, the plant can be found within the Malesia area and throughout Jawa. This diverse distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in varied tropical and subtropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Tagetes lucida is a self-supporting herb characterized by its upright and sturdy growth habit. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 0.8 meters as it matures. Its compact structure makes it a versatile addition to various garden landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Tagetes lucida has demonstrated significant neuroprotective potential in recent scientific investigations. Research focusing on models of neuroinflammation and motor impairment suggests that extracts from this plant can effectively mitigate central nervous system damage. Specifically, the study found that the plant's coumarins help regulate inflammatory markers by increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines while decreasing pro-inflammatory ones. These treatments also appear to protect the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, preventing increased vascular permeability. Consequently, these findings highlight the medicinal promise of Tagetes lucida as a candidate for managing neuroinflammatory conditions.
Compounds
Tagetes lucida is a Mexican medicinal plant known for its diverse chemical profile and significant neuroprotective properties. Research has identified several key constituents within the plant, including 7-methoxycoumarin and various other specialized compounds. Specifically, the plant contains several important coumarins such as DF, herniarin, and dimethylfraxetin. Furthermore, the presence of IC has been noted as a component contributing to its pharmacological activity. These various chemical relationships help explain how the plant's extracts can modulate neuroinflammation and interact with the central nervous system.
Conditions
Tagetes lucida demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by protecting the blood-brain barrier (BBB) against increased vascular permeability in mice. The plant's extracts and specific coumarins effectively manage CPZ-induced experimental encephalomyelitis by controlling motor damage and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, constituents derived from this medicinal plant, such as the anti-inflammatory parthenolide, can suppress activation-induced-cell-death in T-cells by down-regulating the CD95 system. Research also confirms that Tagetes lucida essential oil and its bioactive metabolite, β-caryophyllene, possess potent antinociceptive properties through the involvement of various receptors. Collectively, these findings highlight the plant's robust anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities.
Preparations
Tagetes lucida is prepared as several distinct types of extracts, specifically TlAq, TlEA, TlHex, and TlMet. These different preparations are utilized to evaluate various medicinal effects on the central nervous system. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as coumarins, which include specific isolated compounds like herniarin and dimethylfraxetin. These various forms of the plant are studied for their ability to interact with dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems. Through these different preparations, the plant demonstrates significant neuroprotective and immunomodulatory properties.
Parts used
Tagetes lucida is a versatile plant that offers significant medicinal benefits through different anatomical structures. Scientific analysis of the leaf extracts has revealed the presence of various phenolic constituents, including new flavonol glycosides and aromatic acids. These leaf components demonstrate a notable ability to scavenge free radicals, acting as effective antioxidants. Furthermore, the root of the plant possesses distinct antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that are highly beneficial. Specifically, ethanol extracts from the root have shown potent hepatoprotective effects by reducing liver enzyme levels and ameliorating oxidative stress.