Panax,a genus of the Araliaceae family,is an important herbal group in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).Nine species and three varieties are included in the genus of Panax,in which nearly all species have been used f...Panax,a genus of the Araliaceae family,is an important herbal group in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).Nine species and three varieties are included in the genus of Panax,in which nearly all species have been used for medicinal purposes.Among them,Panax notoginseng(Burk)F.H.Chen,Panax ginseng C.A.Meyer and Panax quinquefolius L.are the most representative and valuable herbs world-wide,with a long history of cultivation.As the main bioactive chemical constituents,saponins with different aglycones are the major components in various Panax spp.,and their pharmacological activities are mainly reflected in the effects on blood system,cardio-and cerebro-vascular systems,nervous system,metabolism,and immune regulation.Researchers of Kunming Institute of Botany(KIB),Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS),have put many efforts into conducting the investigations on Panax species.Herein,we reviewed the research progress on Panax spp.in KIB,CAS,over the past few decades,from the aspects of history and origin,phytochemistry and pharmacological activities.展开更多
The development of new taxonomical theories and approaches, particularly molecular phylogenetics, has led to the expansion of traditional morphology-based taxonomy into the concept of "integrative taxonomy."...The development of new taxonomical theories and approaches, particularly molecular phylogenetics, has led to the expansion of traditional morphology-based taxonomy into the concept of "integrative taxonomy." Taxonomic knowledge has assumed greater significance in recent years, particularly because of growing concerns over the looming biodiversity crisis. Since its establishment in 1938, the Kunming Institute of Botany(KIB), which is located in Yunnan province in Southwest China, has focused attention on the taxonomy and conservation of the flora of China. For the forthcoming 80 th anniversary of KIB, we review the achievements of researchers at KIB and their associates with respect to the taxonomy of land plants, fungi, and lichen. Major taxonomic advances are summarized for families of Calymperaceae,Cryphaeaceae, Lembophyllaceae, Neckeraceae, Polytrichaceae and Pottiaceae of mosses, Pteridaceae and Polypodiaceae of ferns, Taxaceae and Cycadaceae of gymnosperms, Asteraceae, Begoniaceae, Ericaceae,Euphorbiaceae, Gesneriaceae, Lamiaceae, Orchidaceae, Orobanchaceae, Poaceae, Theaceae and Urticaceae of angiosperms, Agaricaceae, Amanitaceae, Boletaceae, Cantharellaceae, Physalacriaceae Russulaceae, Suillaceae and Tuberaceae of fungi, and Ophioparmaceae and Parmeliaceae of lichens. Regarding the future development of taxonomy at KIB, we recommend that taxonomists continue to explore the biodiversity of China, integrate new theories and technologies with traditional taxonomic approaches,and engage in creative monographic work, with support from institutions, funding agencies, and the public.展开更多
The scientific discipline of ethnobotany-the study of human interactions with plants e has applications in many fields of current global concern,including food security,climate change,biodiversity conservation and hum...The scientific discipline of ethnobotany-the study of human interactions with plants e has applications in many fields of current global concern,including food security,climate change,biodiversity conservation and human health.Ethnobotanical studies can provide insights into the ways that societies interact locally with their environmental resources.Ethnobotanical studies have the potential to bring together and integrate local and scientific knowledge to advance the cause of achieving biocultural conservation(Gaoue et al.,2017;Prance,2007).This Special Issue of Plant Diversity contains recent ethnobotanical studies that aim to contribute to determining the most useful ways ethnobotany can be used to confront human problems in the future.Specifically,this issue shows ways in which ethnobotany can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity,especially with regards to documentation and maintenance of indigenous and local knowledge of plants.The research in this issue also describes innovative practices communities have adopted to maintain their plant resources。展开更多
Euclea undulata(E. undulata) is traditionally used for the treatment of body pains, chest complaints, cough, diabetes, diarrhoea, headaches, heart diseases and toothaches in southern Africa. This study was aimed at re...Euclea undulata(E. undulata) is traditionally used for the treatment of body pains, chest complaints, cough, diabetes, diarrhoea, headaches, heart diseases and toothaches in southern Africa. This study was aimed at reviewing the botany, ethnopharmacology and biological activities of E. undulata in southern Africa. Results presented in this study are based on review of literature using search engines such as Science Direct, Springerlink,Scopus, Pub Med, Web of Science, Bio Med Central and Google Scholar. Herbal medicine is prepared from the decoctions of the roots, bark and leaves, and extracts of these plant parts have demonstrated anticholinesterase, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimycobacterial, antiplasmodial, antioxidant and hypoglycaemic activities. Multiple classes of phytochemical compounds such alkaloids, diterpenes, fatty acids, flavonoids, glycosides, naphthoquinones, phenolics, phytosterols, reducing sugars, saponins and tannins have been isolated from the species. E. undulata has a lot of potential as herbal medicine in tropical Africa, and advanced research is required aimed at correlating its medicinal uses with the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties.展开更多
Prof.Zhou Jun,Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences(1999),is a phytochemist and medicinal chemist of China.He is one of the pioneers of Kunming Institute of Botany,CAS and a major founder of the State Key Laborat...Prof.Zhou Jun,Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences(1999),is a phytochemist and medicinal chemist of China.He is one of the pioneers of Kunming Institute of Botany,CAS and a major founder of the State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China.The chemical compositions of some TCM from genus of Dioscorea,Aconitum,Panax,Paris,Cynanchum,Gastrodia,Dendrobium etc.and family Asclepiadaceae,Caryophyllaceae,Hypoxidaceae etc.have been explored by Prof.Zhou's team as steroids,triterpenoids,alkaloids,cyclic peptides and phenols etc.,which revealed the main active composition of those TCM such as Panax notoginseng,Paris yunnanensis and Gastrodia elata.展开更多
Ethnobotanical study of plants revealed that the local community of Ghalegy,District Swat,invariably uses 126 species of 59 families for various purposes.Based on their traditional local uses,fifty-seven species (45.2...Ethnobotanical study of plants revealed that the local community of Ghalegy,District Swat,invariably uses 126 species of 59 families for various purposes.Based on their traditional local uses,fifty-seven species (45.2%) were classified as medicinal,forty-seven as fire wood (37.3%),forty-five as forage (35.7%),twenty-eight as honey bee species (22.2%),twenty-seven as vegetable species (21.4%),25 as edible fruits (14 wild and 11cultivated),thirteen as timber wood (10.3%),twelve as ornamental (9.5%),eleven as furniture wood,ten as shelter and thatch makers (7.9%),ten as fencing (7.9%),five as poisonous (4%),four as religious/superstitious species,three species used in making hand sticks and wooden tools (2.4%),three as utensil cleaner species (2.4%),three as evil repellent and one as fish poisoning species.The area is in plant resources and traditional knowledge but it needs ecological management for its sustainability.展开更多
Applied ethnobotany is a new subject in ethnobiological sciences referring to the transferring,reviving and cultivating ethnobotanical knowledge among different social groups within intra-and-inter-communities.Much re...Applied ethnobotany is a new subject in ethnobiological sciences referring to the transferring,reviving and cultivating ethnobotanical knowledge among different social groups within intra-and-inter-communities.Much research related to biodiversity in many countries is largely devoted to the gathering of more academic information,rather than to more incise studies focusing on finding answers to pressing challenges related to the use of plants by communities.China is a country possessing rich biodiversity and cultural diversity.The long history of Chinese traditional medicine,diversity of cultivated crops and utilization of wild plant species are great cultural traditions to the country.Today,many societies of the country are still intricately linked to the natural environment economically as well as societies and groups within China.However,China is facing major changes in modernization of the country’s economy,and globalization to form part of the world exchange system.Increasingly high levels of consumptions of natural plants,as well as national and international trades on plant products have resulted,space in over-harvesting of wild resources and accelerated environmental degradation.Local social structures and cultural traditions have also changed in order to cope with policy changes.In this background,over the last decade,applied ethnobotany for rural community development and conservation has been employed in different field projects and ethnic minority communities in Yunnan province of China.The applied ethnobotany has focused on work at community level to achieve sustainable use of natural resources and conservation.This presentation discusses findings and lessons learned from the projects on alternatives and innovations to shifting cultivation in Xishuangbanna,southwestern China.展开更多
Diospyros lycioides Desf.(D. lycioides) is traditionally used as herbal medicine against various human and animal ailments in tropical Africa. The present paper reviewed information on botany, medicinal uses, phytoche...Diospyros lycioides Desf.(D. lycioides) is traditionally used as herbal medicine against various human and animal ailments in tropical Africa. The present paper reviewed information on botany, medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of D. lycioides. This review was compiled using scientific literature from electronic search engine such as PubMed,Scopus, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, BioMed Central, Scielo, Medline and Science domain.Additional literatures were obtained from book chapters, books, dissertations, websites and other scientific publications. D. lycioides is used as traditional medicine in 50% of the countries where the species is native in tropical Africa. This study recorded 22 medicinal uses of D.lycioides which included abdominal pains, infertility in women, sexually transmitted infections,and used as chewing sticks(or mouthwash), toothbrushes and ethnoveterinary medicine. D.lycioides extracts demonstrated anti-adhesive, anti-inflammatory, antimetastatic, antioxidant,antifungal, antiproliferative, mutagenicity and antibacterial activities. Future research should focus on the pharmacological properties, phytochemistry, clinical trials and pharmacokinetics of D. lycioides which will enhance the therapeutic potential of the species.展开更多
The community living around the Cikaniki Area of Gunung Halimun Salak National Park(CAGHSNP)uses various plants to fulfill their needs.Their habits are related to indigenous knowledge of using plants as food,medicine,...The community living around the Cikaniki Area of Gunung Halimun Salak National Park(CAGHSNP)uses various plants to fulfill their needs.Their habits are related to indigenous knowledge of using plants as food,medicine,construction,and household utilities,which dynamic societal changes have not displaced.This study aimed to inventory and update potential plants used as food,medicine,construction,and household utilities by local communities in the Cikaniki area,and measure and analyze their cultural and ethnobotanical value.This study objected to five hamlets in the Cikaniki at Malasari Village,Nanggung District,Bogor Regency,West Java,Indonesia.The quantitative analysis was calculated based on the Informant Consensus Factor,Fidelity Level,and Use Value.We analyzed the qualitative data based on the data collection through observation,interviews,and documentation from informants and respondents in five hamlets.The study recorded 199 plant species from 75 families used by the community of CA-GHSNP.The most utilized species in Cikaniki were Staurogyne elongata,Caryota mitis,Blumea balsamifera,Castanopsis argentea,Pilea melastomoides,and Piper betle.There are 72 species of plants used as food,122species for medicinal purposes,and 50 species of plants used for construction and household utilities.The potential plant species in the CA-GHSNP,their utilization categories,and recommendation for conservation strategy are discussed.展开更多
The present paper briefly introduces information about proposals received and funded, statistics and analysis of evaluation of peer review, and supporting strategies and reforms in program reviewing and administration...The present paper briefly introduces information about proposals received and funded, statistics and analysis of evaluation of peer review, and supporting strategies and reforms in program reviewing and administration in the Division of Botany at the Natural Science Foundation of China （NSFC） in 2005. A list of general programs and the abstract of key programs funded by this Division in 2005 are also provided.展开更多
Different parts of Wrightia tinctoria R.Br.(Apocynaceae)(W.tinctoria),have been extensively used in Indian systems of medicine such as Ayurveda,Siddha and Unani for the treatment of jaundice,malaria,psoriasis and many...Different parts of Wrightia tinctoria R.Br.(Apocynaceae)(W.tinctoria),have been extensively used in Indian systems of medicine such as Ayurveda,Siddha and Unani for the treatment of jaundice,malaria,psoriasis and many other ailments.The present review has been primed to describe the existing data on the information on the traditional uses,botany,pharmacognosy,phytochemical constituents,pharmacological activities and toxicology of W.tinctoria.The information was gathered via electronic search(using Google Scholar,NOPR,Pubmed,Elsevier,Medline Plus and Web of Science)and library search for the books on traditional medicine as well as the articles published in peer-reviewed journals.The plant is rich in compounds containing alkaloids,saponins,indoxy yielding O-glycoside(s),phenolics,flavonoids,isatin tryptanthrin,anthranillate,rutin,β-isatin,tryptophan,indigotin,indirubin,wrightial and sterols.The vast number of literature found in database revealed that the extracts of different parts of W.tinctoria showed significant pharmacological actions.Clinical studies indicated a broad range of applications in the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases.We suggest that there is a need for further investigations to isolate active principles that confer pharmacological action.Therefore,identification of such active compound is useful for producing safer drugs in the treatments of various ailments.展开更多
There is only one cover of plants on Earth,so all plant-related aspects of conservation should be consid- ered in deciding how the land and the plants on it should be managed for conservation purposes. A three-fold cl...There is only one cover of plants on Earth,so all plant-related aspects of conservation should be consid- ered in deciding how the land and the plants on it should be managed for conservation purposes. A three-fold classification of the benefits to be derived from ecosystem-based plant conservation ( EBPC) is suggested: conservation of plant species,the sustainable use of plant resources and the delivery of ecosystem services. EBPC is a place-centred approach which,in principle,can be pursued anywhere. Ethnobotanical research can help reveal realities about relationships between local people and plants,thus providing information useful for advancing plant conservation. Applied ethnobotany involves ethnobotanists working in a participatory way with local people,both parties contributing to the identification and resolution of conservation issues relating to plants. This type of research helps ensure that priority issues from the local perspective are addressed,thus making it more likely that local people will be committed to implementing solutions found. Both knowledge and values associated with local communities,and knowledge and methodologies associated with science are brought together in the conservation cause.展开更多
The global rise in animal protein consumption has significantly amplified the demand for fodder.A comprehensive understanding of the diversity and characteristics of existing fodder resources is essential for balanced...The global rise in animal protein consumption has significantly amplified the demand for fodder.A comprehensive understanding of the diversity and characteristics of existing fodder resources is essential for balanced nutritional fodder production.This study investigates the diversity and composition of fodder plants and identifies key species for cattle in Zhaotong City,Yunnan,China,while documenting indigenous knowledge on their usage and selection criteria.Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in 19 villages across seven townships with 140 informants.Data were collected through semi-structured interviews,free listing,and participatory observation,and analyzed using Relative Frequency Citation.A total of 125 taxa(including 106 wild and 19 cultivated)were reported.The most cited family is Poaceae(27 taxa,21.43%),followed by Asteraceae(17 taxa,13.49%),Fabaceae(14 taxa,11.11%),Polygonaceae(9 taxa,7.14%)and Lamiaceae(4 taxa,3.17%).The whole plant(66.04%)and herbaceous plants(84.80%)were the most used parts and life forms.The most cited species were Zea mays,Brassica rapa,Solanum tuberosum,Eragrostis nigra,and Artemisia dubia.Usage of diverse fodder resources reflects local wisdom in managing resource availability and achieving balanced nutrition while coping with environmental and climatic risks.Preferences for certain taxonomic groups are due to their quality as premier fodder resources.To promote integrated crop-livestock farming,we suggest further research into highly preferred fodder species,focusing on nutritional assessment,digestibility,meat quality impacts,and potential as antibiotic alternatives.Establishing germplasm and gene banks for fodder resources is also recommended.展开更多
Fertilization or atmospheric deposition of nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)to terrestrial ecosystems can alter soil N(P)availability and the nature of nutrient limitation for plant growth.Changing the allocation of leaf P...Fertilization or atmospheric deposition of nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)to terrestrial ecosystems can alter soil N(P)availability and the nature of nutrient limitation for plant growth.Changing the allocation of leaf P fractions is potentially an adaptive strategy for plants to cope with soil N(P)availability and nutrient-limiting conditions.However,the impact of the interactions between imbalanced anthropogenic N and P inputs on the concentrations and allocation proportions of leaf P fractions in forest woody plants remains elusive.We conducted a metaanalysis of data about the concentrations and allocation proportions of leaf P fractions,specifically associated with individual and combined additions of N and P in evergreen forests,the dominant vegetation type in southern China where the primary productivity is usually considered limited by P.This assessment allowed us to quantitatively evaluate the effects of N and P additions alone and interactively on leaf P allocation and use strategies.Nitrogen addition(exacerbating P limitation)reduced the concentrations of leaf total P and different leaf P fractions.Nitrogen addition reduced the allocation to leaf metabolic P but increased the allocation to other fractions,while P addition showed opposite trends.The simultaneous additions of N and P showed an antagonistic(mutual suppression)effect on the concentrations of leaf P fractions,but an additive(summary)effect on the allocation proportions of leaf P fractions.These results highlight the importance of strategies of leaf P fraction allocation in forest plants under changes in environmental nutrient availability.Importantly,our study identified critical interactions associated with combined N and P inputs that affect leaf P fractions,thus aiding in predicting plant acclimation strategies in the context of intensifying and imbalanced anthropogenic nutrient inputs.展开更多
A steady rise in the overall population is creating an overburden on crops due to their global demand.On the other hand,given the current climate change and population growth,agricultural practices established during ...A steady rise in the overall population is creating an overburden on crops due to their global demand.On the other hand,given the current climate change and population growth,agricultural practices established during the Green Revolution are no longer viable.Consequently,innovative practices are the prerequisite of the time struggle with the rising global food demand.The potential of nanotechnology to reduce the phytotoxic effects of these ecological restrictions has shown significant promise.Nanoparticles(NPs)typically enhance plant resilience to stressors by fortifying the physical barrier,optimizing photosynthesis,stimulating enzymatic activity for defense,elevating the concentration of stress-resistant compounds,and activating the expression of genes associated with defense mechanisms.In this review,we thoroughly cover the uptake and translocations of NPs crops and their potential valuable functions in enhancing plant growth and development at different growth stages.Additionally,we addressed how NPs improve plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stress.Generally,this review presents a thorough understanding of the significance of NPs in plants and their prospective value for plant antioxidant and crop development.展开更多
基金supported by the Major Science and Technique Programs in Yunnan Province(2016ZF001-001)the Science and Technology Planning Project of Yunnan Province(2013FC008).
文摘Panax,a genus of the Araliaceae family,is an important herbal group in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).Nine species and three varieties are included in the genus of Panax,in which nearly all species have been used for medicinal purposes.Among them,Panax notoginseng(Burk)F.H.Chen,Panax ginseng C.A.Meyer and Panax quinquefolius L.are the most representative and valuable herbs world-wide,with a long history of cultivation.As the main bioactive chemical constituents,saponins with different aglycones are the major components in various Panax spp.,and their pharmacological activities are mainly reflected in the effects on blood system,cardio-and cerebro-vascular systems,nervous system,metabolism,and immune regulation.Researchers of Kunming Institute of Botany(KIB),Chinese Academy of Sciences(CAS),have put many efforts into conducting the investigations on Panax species.Herein,we reviewed the research progress on Panax spp.in KIB,CAS,over the past few decades,from the aspects of history and origin,phytochemistry and pharmacological activities.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 31700182)
文摘The development of new taxonomical theories and approaches, particularly molecular phylogenetics, has led to the expansion of traditional morphology-based taxonomy into the concept of "integrative taxonomy." Taxonomic knowledge has assumed greater significance in recent years, particularly because of growing concerns over the looming biodiversity crisis. Since its establishment in 1938, the Kunming Institute of Botany(KIB), which is located in Yunnan province in Southwest China, has focused attention on the taxonomy and conservation of the flora of China. For the forthcoming 80 th anniversary of KIB, we review the achievements of researchers at KIB and their associates with respect to the taxonomy of land plants, fungi, and lichen. Major taxonomic advances are summarized for families of Calymperaceae,Cryphaeaceae, Lembophyllaceae, Neckeraceae, Polytrichaceae and Pottiaceae of mosses, Pteridaceae and Polypodiaceae of ferns, Taxaceae and Cycadaceae of gymnosperms, Asteraceae, Begoniaceae, Ericaceae,Euphorbiaceae, Gesneriaceae, Lamiaceae, Orchidaceae, Orobanchaceae, Poaceae, Theaceae and Urticaceae of angiosperms, Agaricaceae, Amanitaceae, Boletaceae, Cantharellaceae, Physalacriaceae Russulaceae, Suillaceae and Tuberaceae of fungi, and Ophioparmaceae and Parmeliaceae of lichens. Regarding the future development of taxonomy at KIB, we recommend that taxonomists continue to explore the biodiversity of China, integrate new theories and technologies with traditional taxonomic approaches,and engage in creative monographic work, with support from institutions, funding agencies, and the public.
文摘The scientific discipline of ethnobotany-the study of human interactions with plants e has applications in many fields of current global concern,including food security,climate change,biodiversity conservation and human health.Ethnobotanical studies can provide insights into the ways that societies interact locally with their environmental resources.Ethnobotanical studies have the potential to bring together and integrate local and scientific knowledge to advance the cause of achieving biocultural conservation(Gaoue et al.,2017;Prance,2007).This Special Issue of Plant Diversity contains recent ethnobotanical studies that aim to contribute to determining the most useful ways ethnobotany can be used to confront human problems in the future.Specifically,this issue shows ways in which ethnobotany can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity,especially with regards to documentation and maintenance of indigenous and local knowledge of plants.The research in this issue also describes innovative practices communities have adopted to maintain their plant resources。
基金supported by the National Research Foundation(NRF)Govan Mbeki Research and Development Centre(GMRDC),University of Fort Hare
文摘Euclea undulata(E. undulata) is traditionally used for the treatment of body pains, chest complaints, cough, diabetes, diarrhoea, headaches, heart diseases and toothaches in southern Africa. This study was aimed at reviewing the botany, ethnopharmacology and biological activities of E. undulata in southern Africa. Results presented in this study are based on review of literature using search engines such as Science Direct, Springerlink,Scopus, Pub Med, Web of Science, Bio Med Central and Google Scholar. Herbal medicine is prepared from the decoctions of the roots, bark and leaves, and extracts of these plant parts have demonstrated anticholinesterase, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimycobacterial, antiplasmodial, antioxidant and hypoglycaemic activities. Multiple classes of phytochemical compounds such alkaloids, diterpenes, fatty acids, flavonoids, glycosides, naphthoquinones, phenolics, phytosterols, reducing sugars, saponins and tannins have been isolated from the species. E. undulata has a lot of potential as herbal medicine in tropical Africa, and advanced research is required aimed at correlating its medicinal uses with the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties.
基金the grants from National Natural and Science Foundations of China,CAS,Yunnan Provincial Science and Technology Department(2018HA001)other grants from Chinese government agencies and enterprise for the career development of Prof.
文摘Prof.Zhou Jun,Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences(1999),is a phytochemist and medicinal chemist of China.He is one of the pioneers of Kunming Institute of Botany,CAS and a major founder of the State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China.The chemical compositions of some TCM from genus of Dioscorea,Aconitum,Panax,Paris,Cynanchum,Gastrodia,Dendrobium etc.and family Asclepiadaceae,Caryophyllaceae,Hypoxidaceae etc.have been explored by Prof.Zhou's team as steroids,triterpenoids,alkaloids,cyclic peptides and phenols etc.,which revealed the main active composition of those TCM such as Panax notoginseng,Paris yunnanensis and Gastrodia elata.
文摘Ethnobotanical study of plants revealed that the local community of Ghalegy,District Swat,invariably uses 126 species of 59 families for various purposes.Based on their traditional local uses,fifty-seven species (45.2%) were classified as medicinal,forty-seven as fire wood (37.3%),forty-five as forage (35.7%),twenty-eight as honey bee species (22.2%),twenty-seven as vegetable species (21.4%),25 as edible fruits (14 wild and 11cultivated),thirteen as timber wood (10.3%),twelve as ornamental (9.5%),eleven as furniture wood,ten as shelter and thatch makers (7.9%),ten as fencing (7.9%),five as poisonous (4%),four as religious/superstitious species,three species used in making hand sticks and wooden tools (2.4%),three as utensil cleaner species (2.4%),three as evil repellent and one as fish poisoning species.The area is in plant resources and traditional knowledge but it needs ecological management for its sustainability.
文摘Applied ethnobotany is a new subject in ethnobiological sciences referring to the transferring,reviving and cultivating ethnobotanical knowledge among different social groups within intra-and-inter-communities.Much research related to biodiversity in many countries is largely devoted to the gathering of more academic information,rather than to more incise studies focusing on finding answers to pressing challenges related to the use of plants by communities.China is a country possessing rich biodiversity and cultural diversity.The long history of Chinese traditional medicine,diversity of cultivated crops and utilization of wild plant species are great cultural traditions to the country.Today,many societies of the country are still intricately linked to the natural environment economically as well as societies and groups within China.However,China is facing major changes in modernization of the country’s economy,and globalization to form part of the world exchange system.Increasingly high levels of consumptions of natural plants,as well as national and international trades on plant products have resulted,space in over-harvesting of wild resources and accelerated environmental degradation.Local social structures and cultural traditions have also changed in order to cope with policy changes.In this background,over the last decade,applied ethnobotany for rural community development and conservation has been employed in different field projects and ethnic minority communities in Yunnan province of China.The applied ethnobotany has focused on work at community level to achieve sustainable use of natural resources and conservation.This presentation discusses findings and lessons learned from the projects on alternatives and innovations to shifting cultivation in Xishuangbanna,southwestern China.
基金supported by Govan Mbeki Research and Development Centre(CMRDC grant number C169)University of Fort Hare and the National Research Foundation(NRF grant number T398)
文摘Diospyros lycioides Desf.(D. lycioides) is traditionally used as herbal medicine against various human and animal ailments in tropical Africa. The present paper reviewed information on botany, medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of D. lycioides. This review was compiled using scientific literature from electronic search engine such as PubMed,Scopus, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, BioMed Central, Scielo, Medline and Science domain.Additional literatures were obtained from book chapters, books, dissertations, websites and other scientific publications. D. lycioides is used as traditional medicine in 50% of the countries where the species is native in tropical Africa. This study recorded 22 medicinal uses of D.lycioides which included abdominal pains, infertility in women, sexually transmitted infections,and used as chewing sticks(or mouthwash), toothbrushes and ethnoveterinary medicine. D.lycioides extracts demonstrated anti-adhesive, anti-inflammatory, antimetastatic, antioxidant,antifungal, antiproliferative, mutagenicity and antibacterial activities. Future research should focus on the pharmacological properties, phytochemistry, clinical trials and pharmacokinetics of D. lycioides which will enhance the therapeutic potential of the species.
文摘The community living around the Cikaniki Area of Gunung Halimun Salak National Park(CAGHSNP)uses various plants to fulfill their needs.Their habits are related to indigenous knowledge of using plants as food,medicine,construction,and household utilities,which dynamic societal changes have not displaced.This study aimed to inventory and update potential plants used as food,medicine,construction,and household utilities by local communities in the Cikaniki area,and measure and analyze their cultural and ethnobotanical value.This study objected to five hamlets in the Cikaniki at Malasari Village,Nanggung District,Bogor Regency,West Java,Indonesia.The quantitative analysis was calculated based on the Informant Consensus Factor,Fidelity Level,and Use Value.We analyzed the qualitative data based on the data collection through observation,interviews,and documentation from informants and respondents in five hamlets.The study recorded 199 plant species from 75 families used by the community of CA-GHSNP.The most utilized species in Cikaniki were Staurogyne elongata,Caryota mitis,Blumea balsamifera,Castanopsis argentea,Pilea melastomoides,and Piper betle.There are 72 species of plants used as food,122species for medicinal purposes,and 50 species of plants used for construction and household utilities.The potential plant species in the CA-GHSNP,their utilization categories,and recommendation for conservation strategy are discussed.
文摘The present paper briefly introduces information about proposals received and funded, statistics and analysis of evaluation of peer review, and supporting strategies and reforms in program reviewing and administration in the Division of Botany at the Natural Science Foundation of China （NSFC） in 2005. A list of general programs and the abstract of key programs funded by this Division in 2005 are also provided.
文摘Different parts of Wrightia tinctoria R.Br.(Apocynaceae)(W.tinctoria),have been extensively used in Indian systems of medicine such as Ayurveda,Siddha and Unani for the treatment of jaundice,malaria,psoriasis and many other ailments.The present review has been primed to describe the existing data on the information on the traditional uses,botany,pharmacognosy,phytochemical constituents,pharmacological activities and toxicology of W.tinctoria.The information was gathered via electronic search(using Google Scholar,NOPR,Pubmed,Elsevier,Medline Plus and Web of Science)and library search for the books on traditional medicine as well as the articles published in peer-reviewed journals.The plant is rich in compounds containing alkaloids,saponins,indoxy yielding O-glycoside(s),phenolics,flavonoids,isatin tryptanthrin,anthranillate,rutin,β-isatin,tryptophan,indigotin,indirubin,wrightial and sterols.The vast number of literature found in database revealed that the extracts of different parts of W.tinctoria showed significant pharmacological actions.Clinical studies indicated a broad range of applications in the treatment of psoriasis and other skin diseases.We suggest that there is a need for further investigations to isolate active principles that confer pharmacological action.Therefore,identification of such active compound is useful for producing safer drugs in the treatments of various ailments.
基金financed by grants to Plantlife International from the Allachy Trust,the Rufford Maurice Laing Foundation,the Gurney Charitable Trust,the Tanner Trust and Dr William Hamilton
文摘There is only one cover of plants on Earth,so all plant-related aspects of conservation should be consid- ered in deciding how the land and the plants on it should be managed for conservation purposes. A three-fold classification of the benefits to be derived from ecosystem-based plant conservation ( EBPC) is suggested: conservation of plant species,the sustainable use of plant resources and the delivery of ecosystem services. EBPC is a place-centred approach which,in principle,can be pursued anywhere. Ethnobotanical research can help reveal realities about relationships between local people and plants,thus providing information useful for advancing plant conservation. Applied ethnobotany involves ethnobotanists working in a participatory way with local people,both parties contributing to the identification and resolution of conservation issues relating to plants. This type of research helps ensure that priority issues from the local perspective are addressed,thus making it more likely that local people will be committed to implementing solutions found. Both knowledge and values associated with local communities,and knowledge and methodologies associated with science are brought together in the conservation cause.
基金supported by the Strategic Priority Research Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.XDA26050301-02)。
文摘The global rise in animal protein consumption has significantly amplified the demand for fodder.A comprehensive understanding of the diversity and characteristics of existing fodder resources is essential for balanced nutritional fodder production.This study investigates the diversity and composition of fodder plants and identifies key species for cattle in Zhaotong City,Yunnan,China,while documenting indigenous knowledge on their usage and selection criteria.Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in 19 villages across seven townships with 140 informants.Data were collected through semi-structured interviews,free listing,and participatory observation,and analyzed using Relative Frequency Citation.A total of 125 taxa(including 106 wild and 19 cultivated)were reported.The most cited family is Poaceae(27 taxa,21.43%),followed by Asteraceae(17 taxa,13.49%),Fabaceae(14 taxa,11.11%),Polygonaceae(9 taxa,7.14%)and Lamiaceae(4 taxa,3.17%).The whole plant(66.04%)and herbaceous plants(84.80%)were the most used parts and life forms.The most cited species were Zea mays,Brassica rapa,Solanum tuberosum,Eragrostis nigra,and Artemisia dubia.Usage of diverse fodder resources reflects local wisdom in managing resource availability and achieving balanced nutrition while coping with environmental and climatic risks.Preferences for certain taxonomic groups are due to their quality as premier fodder resources.To promote integrated crop-livestock farming,we suggest further research into highly preferred fodder species,focusing on nutritional assessment,digestibility,meat quality impacts,and potential as antibiotic alternatives.Establishing germplasm and gene banks for fodder resources is also recommended.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41473068)supported by China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2022M722667)。
文摘Fertilization or atmospheric deposition of nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)to terrestrial ecosystems can alter soil N(P)availability and the nature of nutrient limitation for plant growth.Changing the allocation of leaf P fractions is potentially an adaptive strategy for plants to cope with soil N(P)availability and nutrient-limiting conditions.However,the impact of the interactions between imbalanced anthropogenic N and P inputs on the concentrations and allocation proportions of leaf P fractions in forest woody plants remains elusive.We conducted a metaanalysis of data about the concentrations and allocation proportions of leaf P fractions,specifically associated with individual and combined additions of N and P in evergreen forests,the dominant vegetation type in southern China where the primary productivity is usually considered limited by P.This assessment allowed us to quantitatively evaluate the effects of N and P additions alone and interactively on leaf P allocation and use strategies.Nitrogen addition(exacerbating P limitation)reduced the concentrations of leaf total P and different leaf P fractions.Nitrogen addition reduced the allocation to leaf metabolic P but increased the allocation to other fractions,while P addition showed opposite trends.The simultaneous additions of N and P showed an antagonistic(mutual suppression)effect on the concentrations of leaf P fractions,but an additive(summary)effect on the allocation proportions of leaf P fractions.These results highlight the importance of strategies of leaf P fraction allocation in forest plants under changes in environmental nutrient availability.Importantly,our study identified critical interactions associated with combined N and P inputs that affect leaf P fractions,thus aiding in predicting plant acclimation strategies in the context of intensifying and imbalanced anthropogenic nutrient inputs.
基金The authors extend their gratitude to the Deanship of Scientific Research(DSR),King Faisal University,Saudi Arabia,for funding the publication of this work(Project number:KFU250560).
文摘A steady rise in the overall population is creating an overburden on crops due to their global demand.On the other hand,given the current climate change and population growth,agricultural practices established during the Green Revolution are no longer viable.Consequently,innovative practices are the prerequisite of the time struggle with the rising global food demand.The potential of nanotechnology to reduce the phytotoxic effects of these ecological restrictions has shown significant promise.Nanoparticles(NPs)typically enhance plant resilience to stressors by fortifying the physical barrier,optimizing photosynthesis,stimulating enzymatic activity for defense,elevating the concentration of stress-resistant compounds,and activating the expression of genes associated with defense mechanisms.In this review,we thoroughly cover the uptake and translocations of NPs crops and their potential valuable functions in enhancing plant growth and development at different growth stages.Additionally,we addressed how NPs improve plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stress.Generally,this review presents a thorough understanding of the significance of NPs in plants and their prospective value for plant antioxidant and crop development.
