Does the name really matter? The importance of botanical nomenclature and plant taxonomy in biomedical research

• Published in: Journal of ethnopharmacology Vol. 152; no. 3; pp. 387 - 392
• Main Authors: Bennett, Bradley C., Balick, Michael J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Ireland Elsevier Ireland Ltd 28.03.2014
• Subjects: Biomedical Research - methods; Botanical Nomenclature; Databases, Factual; Ethnopharmacology; Humans; Medicinal plant research; Plant taxonomy; Plants, Medicinal - classification; Terminology as Topic; Botanical Nomenclature; Medicinal plant research; Plant taxonomy
• ISSN: 0378-8741; 1872-7573
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.11.042

Medical research on plant-derived compounds requires a breadth of expertise from field to laboratory and clinical skills. Too often basic botanical skills are evidently lacking, especially with respect to plant taxonomy and botanical nomenclature. Binomial and familial names, synonyms and author citations are often misconstrued. The correct botanical name, linked to a vouchered specimen, is the sine qua non of phytomedical research. Without the unique identifier of a proper binomial, research cannot accurately be linked to the existing literature. Perhaps more significant, is the ambiguity of species determinations that ensues of from poor taxonomic practices. This uncertainty, not surprisingly, obstructs reproducibility of results—the cornerstone of science. Based on our combined six decades of experience with medicinal plants, we discuss the problems of inaccurate taxonomy and botanical nomenclature in biomedical research. This problems appear all too frequently in manuscripts and grant applications that we review and they extend to the published literature. We also review the literature on the importance of taxonomy in other disciplines that relate to medicinal plant research. In most cases, questions regarding orthography, synonymy, author citations, and current family designations of most plant binomials can be resolved using widely-available online databases and other electronic resources. Some complex problems require consultation with a professional plant taxonomist, which also is important for accurate identification of voucher specimens. Researchers should provide the currently accepted binomial and complete author citation, provide relevant synonyms, and employ the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group III family name. Taxonomy is a vital adjunct not only to plant-medicine research but to virtually every field of science. Medicinal plant researchers can increase the precision and utility of their investigations by following sound practices with respect to botanical nomenclature. Correct spellings, accepted binomials, author citations, synonyms, and current family designations can readily be found on reliable online databases. When questions arise, researcher should consult plant taxonomists. Steps for avoiding taxonomic errors. 1.Provide currently accepted binomial and complete author citation.2.Indicate source of binomial.3.Provide relevant synonyms for binomials.4.Capitalize and italicize scientific names appropriately.5.Provide Angiosperm Phylogeny Group III family name.6.Provide the common name(s).7.For cultivars, provide subspecific or varietal names and the cultivar names.8.When in doubt, consult a plant taxonomist. [Display omitted]