Rhizanthes, the Forgotten Relative of Rafflesia in the Rafflesiaceae

Abstract

Rhizanthes is a holoparasitic plant of the Rafflesiaceae, and, just like Rafflesia, its host is Tetrastigma (Vitaceae). Unlike Rafflesia, very little research has been conducted on Rhizanthes other than a few studies focusing on its taxonomy and anatomy, and limited studies on its propagation, despite some ethnomedicinal uses in several regions of Indonesia. Wild populations of Rhizanthes are declining due to deforestation and overharvesting by locals. Artificial pollination and possible seed spread, which are similar to Rafflesia, may be useful for future propagation-based studies, which are generally very difficult and challenging for members of the Rafflesiaceae. This paper emphasizes the cultural and ethnomedicinal importance of Rhizanthes and seeks to define a conservation road-map that incorporates a scientifically-based approach to research while also seeking a four-pronged approach to the conservation of Rhizanthes: 1) conventional and biotechnology-based conservation; 2) germplasm multiplication and preservation; 3) reintroduction into the wild and conservation of wild populations; 4) policy-based protective measures.

Screening Rafflesia and Sapria Metabolites Using a Bioinformatics Approach to Assess Their Potential as Drugs

“…Similarly, Rhizanthes is also known for its ethnomedicinal properties in Indonesia to cure several diseases such as hemorrhages, back pain, stomachache, and hematuria (Quattrocchi 2012; Syaifuddin et al 2018) -specifically using Rhizanthes lowii (Becc.) Harms, which is known locally as "ulur-ulur" (Syaifuddin et al 2018;Wicaksono et al 2021). None of these ethnomedicinal properties have been tested in clinical trials on animals or humans.…”

“…Despite the ethnomedicinal potential of Rafflesiaceae, the rarity of plants in this family stems from its complex ecology that is strictly dependent on a host plant. Rafflesiaceae species can only grow when their habitat meets the specific ecological requirements of the host plant, Tetrastigma (Wicaksono et al 2016(Wicaksono et al , 2021. Further requirements for the presence of Rafflesiaceae includes a viable population of carrion flies as pollinators, pollination efficiency (i.e.…”