Viburnum utile
Viburnum utile · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Viburnum utile is a specialized plant species that has garnered significant interest within pharmacological research. This study focuses on the characterization of its bioactive potential through the use of a specific ethanol extract. By employing this solvent, researchers aim to isolate the most potent secondary metabolites contained within the plant's tissues. The resulting preparation serves as a concentrated medium for evaluating various therapeutic properties. Understanding the chemical profile of this extract is essential for unlocking the plant's full medicinal value.
- Synonyms
- Viburnum Utile Var. Ningqiangense · Viburnum Fallax · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Viburnaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Viburnum utile is a versatile shrub known by several distinct names across different languages and cultures. In various regions, it is frequently referred to by the common name service viburnum. Its linguistic identity extends further, as it is called kalina užitočná in certain areas and Калина полезная in others. In East Asian contexts, the plant is recognized by the name 煙管荚蒾. Understanding these diverse names helps gardeners and botanists identify this species regardless of their cultural background.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Viburnum utile is a botanical subject that is frequently identified through several different taxonomic synonyms. In various scientific records, this species is referred to as Viburnum bockii or Viburnum fallax. The plant also encompasses specific variations that are categorized under distinct names in botanical literature. These include the recognized varieties Viburnum utile var. minor and Viburnum utile var. ningqiangense. Understanding these overlapping classifications is essential for accurate identification within the genus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Viburnum utile is a distinct botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is further organized into the order Dipsacales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It also finds its place within the family Viburnaceae, which defines its structural characteristics. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Viburnum, marking its unique position in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Viburnaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Viburnum utile is a notable species primarily distributed across the Asia-Temperate region. Its presence is most significant within the diverse landscapes of China, where it occupies several distinct ecological zones. Specifically, the plant can be found throughout the North-Central territories of the country. It also thrives within the South-Central regions, demonstrating a broad adaptability to varying climates. Furthermore, its reach extends into the Southeast, completing its wide-ranging distribution across the Chinese mainland.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Viburnum utile grows in a distinct shrub form, creating a lush and textured presence in any landscape. This resilient plant is entirely self-supporting, maintaining its structure without the need for external stakes or assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Viburnum utile contains various chemical constituents that demonstrate inhibitory activities against the enzyme α-glucosidase. Researchers isolated sixteen specific compounds from the ethanol extract of the plant, including the newly identified viburnumide A. Among these substances, amentoflavone exhibited significant inhibitory effects against α-glucosidase. The potency of amentoflavone was measured with an $\text{IC}_{50}$ of $4.0 \mu\text{mol}\cdot\text{L}^{-1}$, which is comparable to the positive control acarbose. These findings highlight the potential of Viburnum utile constituents to act as effective α-glucosidase inhibitors.
Preparations
Viburnum utile is prepared as an ethanol extract to facilitate the isolation of its chemical constituents. Researchers utilized column chromatography with D101 macroporous resin, silica gel, and Sephadex LH-20 to separate the compounds from this specific extract. Through these processes, sixteen distinct compounds were successfully obtained and identified using spectroscopic techniques. These isolated substances, including the newly discovered viburnumide A, were subsequently evaluated for their inhibitory activities. This extraction method proved essential for studying the plant's potential effectiveness against α-glucosidase.