Viburnum cylindricum
What's the taxonomical classification of Viburnum cylindricum?
Viburnum cylindricum belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is situated in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Moving through its taxonomic hierarchy, the plant is organized under the order Dipsacales and falls within the family Viburnaceae. Finally, it is identified by the genus Viburnum, specifically categorized as the species cylindricum.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
| Species | cylindricum |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Viburnum cylindricum has an arching, shrubby growth habit characterized by opposite, ovate leaves with serrated margins and a woody, multi-stemmed structure. The foliage typically features prominent pinnate venation and a texture that can vary from smooth to slightly rugose. During the flowering season, the plant produces dense, cylindrical clusters of small, white, five-petaled flowers. These inflorescences transition into fleshy, drupaceous fruits that change color as they ripen. The bark on older stems becomes textured and provides a sturdy framework for the spreading canopy.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the mountainous regions of eastern China, primarily found in provinces such as Zhejiang, Anhui, Jiangsu, and Fujian. It thrives within temperate forest environments at various elevations across these southeastern provinces. The species is most commonly documented growing in shaded understory habitats and along moist slopes. Its range is relatively localized to these specific East Asian montane ecosystems. This particular distribution pattern limits its occurrence to these distinct ecological niches within its native territory.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, moist, slightly acidic soil and a location that provides partial shade to full sun for optimal growth.
To ensure healthy development, it should be planted in areas where it can benefit from consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. Mulching the base of the shrub helps retain soil humidity and regulates temperature around the root system. Regular pruning during the dormant season can help maintain its natural shape and encourage vigorous new growth.
Providing adequate air circulation around the foliage is also essential to prevent fungal diseases from developing.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Viburnum cylindricum utilizes its leaves for various medicinal applications. These leaves are often harvested to prepare infusions or decoctions used in traditional remedies. Practitioners may use the leaf extracts to address specific inflammatory conditions or digestive issues. The chemical constituents found within the foliage provide the necessary therapeutic properties for these treatments. Careful preparation ensures that the active compounds are effectively utilized for healing.
According to a study published by "Chemistry & biodiversity", the leaves of Viburnum cylindricum contain abundant bioactive secondary metabolites used medicinally. Researchers isolated 14 aryltetralin lignan glycosides from these leaves, including three previously undescribed viburindrosides A-C (1-3) and two rare variable 9-O-2'-aryltetralin lignan glycosides (13 and 14). Among the isolates, compounds 13 and 14 exhibited the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 7.69 and 7.25 µM, respectively. Additionally, compounds 5 and 7 showed potent urease inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 16.01 and 15.23 µM. Molecular docking studies provided further insights into the binding interactions of these 4 active compounds with α-glucosidase and urease.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaves
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Viburnum cylindricum, was traditionally used by certain Indigenous groups in North America for its medicinal properties and as a resource for making dyes.
The berries were sometimes harvested to create pigments for coloring various materials. Some historical accounts suggest that parts of the plant were utilized in herbal preparations to treat minor ailments. Its presence in the landscape also made it a significant component of local ethnobotanical knowledge.
These traditional practices highlight the deep connection between native flora and the survival strategies of early inhabitants.
What are the pharmacological activities of Viburnum cylindricum?
This plant has demonstrated significant pharmacological potential through its specific ureaase inhibitory activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. These biochemical properties suggest that extracts from Viburnum cylindricum may play a role in managing metabolic disorders such as diabetes. By inhibiting α-glucosidase, the plant can help regulate blood glucose levels after meals. Furthermore, its ability to inhibit ureaase offers possibilities for treating conditions related to gastric ulcers caused by urea-splitting bacteria. These enzymatic inhibitory effects highlight the medicinal value of the species in modern pharmacology.
According to a study published by "Chemistry & biodiversity", Viburnum cylindricum leaves contain 14 aryltetralin lignan glycosides, which include three previously undescribed compounds called viburindrosides A-C (1-3) and two rare variable 9-O-2'-aryltetralin lignan glycosides (13 and 14). Regarding enzyme inhibitory activity, compounds 13 and 14 exhibited the strongest α-glucosidase inhibition with IC50 values of 7.69 and 7.25 µM, respectively. Additionally, compounds 5 and 7 demonstrated potent urease inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 16.01 and 15.23 µM, respectively. Molecular docking studies were further utilized to provide insights into the binding interactions of these 4 active compounds with α-glucosidase and urease.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- ureaase inhibitory activity
- α-glucosidase inhibitory activity
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains aryltetralin lignan glycosides, specifically 9-O-2'-aryltetralin lignan glycosides, along with viburindroside A, viburindroside B, and viburindroside C. These unique medicinal compounds are specialized secondary metabolites found within the chemical profile of Viburnum cylindricum. The presence of these specific glycosides contributes to the complex pharmacological potential of the species. Researchers study these particular molecules to understand their biological activities and therapeutic properties. This chemical diversity highlights the plant's importance in natural product chemistry.
According to a study published by "Chemistry & biodiversity", Viburnum cylindricum contains abundant bioactive secondary metabolites, including 14 aryltetralin lignan glycosides. These isolated compounds include three previously undescribed viburincrosides A-C (1-3) and two rare variable 9-O-2'-aryltetralin lignan glycosides (13 and 14). Among all isolates, compounds 13 and 14 exhibited the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 7.69 and 7.25 µM, respectively. Additionally, compounds 5 and 7 showed potent ureaase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 16.01 and 15.23 µM, respectively.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- aryltetralin Lignan Glycosides
- variable 9-O-2'-aryltetralin lignan glycosides
- viburindrosides A-C
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating digestive disorders, fever, and various inflammatory conditions through its traditional medicinal applications. Practitioners often utilize the plant to alleviate stomach aches and promote better bowel function. Its properties are also believed to help reduce body temperature during febrile episodes. Additionally, the plant is sometimes incorporated into remedies aimed at soothing internal swelling or discomfort. These uses are primarily rooted in regional folk medicine practices.
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is prepared as a decoction or infused tea from its dried berries and bark to treat digestive issues and reduce inflammation.
The active compounds within the fruit are often concentrated into tinctures for more potent medicinal application. Practitioners sometimes combine these extracts with other botanical agents to soothe gastrointestinal distress. These herbal preparations are traditionally valued for their ability to support systemic wellness.
Each method of extraction is carefully chosen to maximize the bioavailability of the plant's healing properties.
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause adverse health effects such as skin irritation, digestive distress, and potential toxicity if ingested in large quantities. Contact with the leaves or stems may lead to contact dermatitis or itchy rashes on sensitive skin. Ingesting the berries or other parts of the shrub can trigger nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. While research is limited, certain compounds within the plant may interfere with metabolic processes if consumed regularly. Therefore, caution should be exercised when handling or being near this species in a garden setting.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Viburnum cylindricum?
This plant pairs effectively with culinary and medicinal herbs such as lemon balm, peppermint, and lavender to complement its subtle, woody undertones.
When used in herbal infusions, the delicate scent of Viburnum cylindricum harmonizes well with the citrusy notes of lemon balm. Lavender can also be added to create a soothing aromatic blend that enhances the plant's natural profile. For a more refreshing tea, the cooling properties of peppermint provide a balanced contrast to the shrub's essence.
These combinations allow for a diverse range of sensory experiences in garden-to-table applications.