Woodfordia uniflora
Woodfordia uniflora · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Woodfordia uniflora is a botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Scientific investigations have highlighted its potent antibacterial and antioxidant activities, making it a subject of pharmacological interest. Specifically, the plant's roots have been studied for their efficacy in addressing medical conditions such as malaria and toothache. Research focuses on the bioactive properties found within CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) and MeOH extracts of these roots. Consequently, this plant represents a valuable natural resource for developing new medicinal treatments.
- Synonyms
- Grislea Micropetala · Grislea Multiflora · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lythraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Synonyms
Woodfordia uniflora is a taxonomically complex species that has been identified by various botanical synonyms throughout history. It is frequently associated with the genus Grislea, appearing in literature under the names Grislea micropetala, Grislea multiflora, and Grislea uniflora. Additionally, the plant has been classified under different varieties of Woodfordia floribunda, specifically var. glabrata and var. tomentosa. These overlapping designations reflect the evolving nature of botanical classification and the nuances of plant identification. Understanding these relationships is essential for researchers seeking to navigate the diverse nomenclature surrounding this species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Woodfordia uniflora belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, showcasing the diverse beauty of the natural world. Within this vast biological group, the plant is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized into the order Myrtales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Lythraceae family, it shares unique characteristics with many other flowering plants. Finally, this species is defined by its unique placement within the genus Woodfordia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Woodfordia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Woodfordia uniflora exhibits a widespread distribution across several key regions of the African continent. Its presence is notably documented throughout East Tropical Africa, spanning across Kenya and Uganda. The species also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, establishing itself in the diverse landscapes of Chad. Furthermore, its range encompasses the unique environments found within Djibouti and Eritrea. Together, these locations highlight the plant's significant ecological footprint across these diverse African territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Woodfordia uniflora is a versatile shrub that adds structure and texture to various landscapes. This species typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 3.05 meters, making it a prominent feature in its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Woodfordia uniflora is a medicinal plant recognized for its traditional use in treating various ailments, including malaria and stomach problems. Recent research into its root extracts has confirmed that the plant possesses significant antibacterial activity against pathogens such as E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates potent antioxidant properties, showing a high capacity for scavenging DPPH radicals. These biological activities are linked to key chemical constituents like bergenin and $\beta$-sitosterol, which were isolated during experimental studies. Ultimately, the combined antibacterial and antioxidant profiles suggest that W. uniflora holds great promise as a therapeutic agent for bacterial infections and free radical-inducing diseases.
Compounds
Woodfordia uniflora is a versatile medicinal plant traditionally utilized to treat ailments such as malaria, toothaches, and liver disorders. Recent scientific investigations into the plant's roots have successfully isolated several key chemical constituents through silica gel chromatography. Notably, researchers have confirmed that Woodfordia uniflora contains bergenin, a compound that was reported for the first time from this species in this study. This specific constituent, along with others, demonstrated significant antibacterial inhibition against pathogens like E. coli and S. aureus. Furthermore, the presence of bergenin contributes to the plant's potent antioxidant properties, supporting its potential as a therapeutic agent for various diseases.
Conditions
Woodfordia uniflora is a medicinal plant recognized for its ability to treat malaria and toothache. It is also utilized to address various stomach problems. Furthermore, the root parts of the plant are specifically used for healing liver disorders. These diverse therapeutic applications highlight the plant's significant medicinal value.
Preparations
Woodfordia uniflora roots are prepared as both CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) and MeOH extracts for chemical analysis. These specific extraction methods were utilized to isolate key compounds including bergenin, β-sitosterol, and epigallocatechin 3-gallate. Through silica gel chromatography of these extracts, researchers were able to identify the chemical constituents present in the plant. The resulting CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) and MeOH extracts demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against pathogens like E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Furthermore, these prepared extracts exhibited potent antioxidant properties by effectively scavenging DPPH radicals.
Parts used
Woodfordia uniflora is a versatile medicinal plant that has been traditionally used to treat malaria, toothaches, and various stomach problems. Recent scientific evaluations have specifically focused on the plant's roots, which are also utilized for healing liver disorders. Through silica gel chromatography, researchers have successfully isolated key compounds from these root extracts, including bergenin, β-sitosterol, and epigallocatechin 3-gallate. These chemical constituents demonstrate significant antibacterial activity against pathogens such as E. coli and S. aureus. Ultimately, the study confirms that the roots of W. uniflora hold great potential as therapeutic agents for combating bacterial infections and free radical-inducing diseases.