Vitex peduncularis
Vitex peduncularis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Vitex peduncularis is a botanical species that has gained significant attention within traditional and modern pharmacological studies. Research has specifically focused on the medicinal potential of this plant in addressing the complex challenges posed by malaria. Scientists have identified the leaves as the primary source of bioactive compounds essential for therapeutic efficacy. Through the development of specialized leaf methanol extracts, researchers aim to isolate the chemical constituents responsible for antiplasmodial activity. This investigation underscores the importance of exploring natural resources to discover new treatments for infectious diseases.
- Synonyms
- Vitex Peduncularis F. Roxburghiana · Vitex Peduncularis Var. Roxburghiana
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Vitex peduncularis is a versatile plant known by several distinct names across different cultures and languages. In certain regions, it is affectionately referred to by the common name Goda. Those speaking Russian may recognize the species as Прутняк цветоножковый. Meanwhile, in Thailand, the plant is frequently identified as กาสามปีก. These diverse local designations highlight the widespread presence and global recognition of this unique botanical species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Vitex peduncularis is a botanical subject that is often identified through various taxonomic classifications. Within scientific literature, this species is frequently associated with the synonym Vitex peduncularis f. roxburghiana. Additionally, the plant is recognized under the synonymous designation of Vitex peduncularis var. roxburghiana. These overlapping names highlight the complex historical efforts to categorize its specific morphological variations. Understanding these nomenclatural relationships is essential for researchers seeking accurate identification in the field.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Vitex peduncularis is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the remarkable diversity of the natural world. Within the biological hierarchy, this species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Lamiales. It is further categorized into the family Lamiaceae, a group known for its significant botanical characteristics. As a representative of the genus Vitex, this plant plays a unique role in its specific ecological niche. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the evolutionary history of the species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Vitex |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Vitex peduncularis exhibits a wide and diverse geographic distribution across various Asian climates. In temperate regions, the species is notably found within China and its South-Central territories. Its presence extends significantly into tropical Asia, particularly throughout the Indian Subcontinent. This widespread reach includes specific habitats in Bangladesh, Nepal, and the East Himalaya. Ultimately, the plant maintains a strong botanical foothold across much of India, showcasing its remarkable adaptability to different environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Vitex peduncularis is a self-supporting tree characterized by its sturdy and upright growth form. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 10 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Its structural integrity allows it to stand firmly without the need for external support.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Vitex peduncularis demonstrates significant medicinal potential by treating various human pathogenic bacterial strains. Research indicates that its leaf methanol extracts possess a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity, with this specific species showing the highest potency among those tested. The plant's effectiveness is evidenced by measurable zones of inhibition and specific minimum inhibitory concentrations against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. Additionally, Vitex peduncularis is recognized for its traditional use in treating malaria within the tribal communities of northeast India. This dual capability makes the species a valuable candidate for the isolation of new antibacterial and antimalarial therapeutic molecules.
Preparations
Vitex peduncularis is prepared as leaf methanol extracts to evaluate its antibacterial potential against human pathogenic bacteria. These specific extracts were tested using the disc diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration assays. Throughout the study, the leaf methanol extracts of this species demonstrated a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. Notably, the preparations of V. peduncularis exhibited the highest level of effectiveness against all screened microorganisms. Consequently, these methanol extracts are recommended as a primary source for isolating the molecules responsible for such potent antibacterial properties.
Parts used
Vitex peduncularis demonstrates remarkable therapeutic potential through the medicinal properties found within its leaf. Recent studies involving methanol extracts of this specific plant part have revealed a significant capacity to combat various human pathogens. Among the different species tested, the leaf extracts of this plant exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. The effectiveness was clearly measured through substantial zones of inhibition and specific minimum inhibitory concentrations. Consequently, these leaves serve as an excellent source for isolating new antibacterial molecules to fight infectious diseases.