Tiliacora acuminata
Tiliacora acuminata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Tiliacora acuminata is a significant botanical species recognized for its diverse therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Scientific investigations have highlighted its impressive antibacterial and antitumor activities, making it a subject of great pharmacological interest. Specifically, the root of this plant serves as a potent source of bioactive compounds essential for health. Extensive studies have confirmed its remarkable antioxidant activity, which helps combat oxidative stress within biological systems. Consequently, this plant represents a valuable natural resource for developing future medicinal applications.
- Synonyms
- Tiliacora Abnormalis · Menispermum Acuminatum · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Menispermaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Tiliacora acuminata is a fascinating climbing plant known by various regional names across different cultures. In Bengali-speaking regions, this species is commonly referred to as কালিলতা. Moving toward the southern landscapes of India, it is frequently identified as കൊടപ്പാറവള്ളി. These diverse common names highlight the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance in local ecosystems. Understanding these linguistic variations helps botanists and enthusiasts connect with the plant's identity throughout its natural habitat.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Tiliacora acuminata is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this species has been identified under various names, including Braunea menispermoides and Cocculus acuminatus. Researchers also frequently refer to the plant as Cocculus radiatus in different historical contexts. Furthermore, the nomenclature extends to include the names Menispermum acuminatum and Menispermum polycarpon. Understanding these diverse relationships is essential for accurate identification and study within the plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Tiliacora acuminata is a distinctive species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast botanical kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further falls into the order Ranunculales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Tiliacora, it maintains a unique identity among its close relatives. Finally, it is categorized within the family Menispermaceae, completing its complex biological profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Menispermaceae |
| Genus | Tiliacora |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Tiliacora acuminata is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. It maintains a significant presence across the Indian Subcontinent, spanning diverse geographic landscapes. This distribution includes specific occurrences in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The plant can also be found in Sri Lanka, showcasing its adaptability to various subtropical environments. Additionally, its range extends into the West Himalaya, highlighting its wide ecological footprint within the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Tiliacora acuminata is characterized by an obligatory climbing habit, meaning it relies entirely on external structures for physical support to reach sunlight.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Tiliacora acuminata is recognized for its significant medicinal potential derived from the biodiversity-rich forests of West Bengal. Research indicates that this plant species possesses notable antioxidant activity, which is largely attributed to its high alkaloid content. This antioxidant capacity further supports the plant's demonstrated antibacterial properties. Additionally, the species exhibits robust antitumor activity, specifically showing effectiveness against cervical cancer cells. Such diverse bioactivity highlights the importance of conserving these ethnomedicinal plants for future therapeutic developments.
Compounds
Conditions
Tiliacora acuminata exhibits significant antitumor activity through the presence of potent alkaloids. This plant demonstrates antioxidant activity, which directly contributes to its antibacterial and antitumor potencies. Specifically, its extracts have been shown to treat acute myeloblastic leukaemia (HL-60) by inducing apoptosis in tumor cells. The plant also effectively treats breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) as part of its broad cytotoxic profile against human tumor cell lines. Furthermore, the biological properties of the plant allow it to treat antibacterial challenges.
Preparations
Parts used
Tiliacora acuminata is a plant species that is notable for its specific botanical components, including the root. While research often focuses on related species like Tiliacora racemosa, the utilization of plant roots remains a critical area of study for medicinal properties. In studies involving similar taxa, ethanol extracts derived from the root have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity against various human tumor cell lines. These extracts often contain bioactive alkaloids that can induce programmed cell death, or apoptosis, in malignant cells. Understanding the chemical makeup of these plant parts provides essential insights into their potential applications in traditional and modern medicine.