Research Progress on Illicium difengpi (Illiciaceae): A Review

Chao Wu,Beibei Qi,Shah Fahad,Hui Tang,Baoyu Liu,Huiling Liang,Manlian Wang,Dianpeng Li

doi:10.3390/horticulturae8010019

Chao Wu, Beibei Qi + Show 6 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8010019

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Abstract

Illicium difengpi K.I.B. et K.I.M. is a member of the Illiciaceae family with a yet not fully explored utilization value. To provide references for the systematic understanding of I. difengpi (Illiciaceae), the morphological and structural characteristics, wild resource distribution, chemical compounds, pharmacological effects, utilization, and protective measures of this species are reviewed. We conclude that (i) I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) is an endemic and indigenous medicinal species that has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and traumatic injury in China; (ii) I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) can endure various abiotic stresses, especially extreme drought, and thus has scientific value for exploring adaptive mechanisms of tolerance to extreme drought and in the ecological restoration of karst rocky desertification areas; and (iii) the beautiful tree shapes of I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) give it potential ornamental value. However, the wild resources of I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) have rapidly decreased, and there is an urgent need to protect this endangered species to maintain its diversity. Protection measures include the protection of wild germplasm resources, the establishment of an I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) germplasm resource bank, and the development of large-scale ecological planting techniques. In further research, the medicinal and scientific value of I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) should be systematically explored to clarify the plant’s effective pharmaceutical value, clinical applications, mechanisms of drought adaptation, and genetic diversity.

Highlights

Illicium difengpi K.I.B. et K.I.M., a species belonging to the Illiciaceae family, is an endemic shrub in southwestern China
To protect and utilize this scarce medicinal plant resource, we systematically reviewed the research on I. difengpi (Illiciaceae)
Most of the chemical compositions such as neolignans, phenylpropanoids, triterpenoids, and amides were isolated from the extract of stem/root bark of I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) [17], and can be isolated from pericarps [18], while sesquiterpene compounds were mainly isolated from the volatility oil of the fruit [19]

Summary

Introduction

Illicium difengpi K.I.B. et K.I.M., a species belonging to the Illiciaceae family, is an endemic shrub in southwestern China. Distributed in Guangxi province, I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) is a medicinal plant unique to karst rocky mountains that has considerable medicinal, scientific, ornamental, and ecological value, and its utilization potential needs further exploration and development [2]. Wild resources of I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) have sharply declined due to the narrow habitats, naturally low reproductive capacity, deforestation, and overexcavation, rendering this plant an endangered species. I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) has rarely been systematically described, and the public poorly understands it and has devoted little attention to the species, leading to insufficient awareness of the need to protect its wild resources [2,3]. To protect and utilize this scarce medicinal plant resource, we systematically reviewed the research on I. difengpi (Illiciaceae). We discuss its wild resource status to provide references and guidance for the protection, scientific research, and comprehensive utilization of wild I. difengpi (Illiciaceae) resources

Survey Methodology

Medicinal Value

Scientific Research Value

Ornamental Value

Conclusions and Future Outlook