Acrocarpus fraxinifolius
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique physiological properties. The leaves of this plant serve as a primary source for various bioactive compounds used in scientific study. Among its notable chemical constituents are lupeol, phytol, and squalene, which contribute to its medicinal potential. These specific phytochemicals highlight the complex chemical profile found within its foliage. Understanding the composition of this plant offers valuable insights into its natural therapeutic applications.
- Synonyms
- Acrocarpus Combretiflorus · Acrocarpus Fraxinifolius Var. Guangxiensis · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is a versatile tree known by several distinct regional names. It is frequently referred to as Acrocarpo or by its descriptive title, the Pink Cedar. In certain agricultural contexts, it is valued as Kenya coffeeshade due to its ability to provide necessary canopy cover. The species also carries the name Mundani, reflecting its local identity in specific habitats. Furthermore, it is widely recognized as cedro rosado, a name that highlights its unique aesthetic qualities.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different scientific names in various taxonomic records. It is widely recognized as being synonymous with Acrocarpus combretiflorus, a name often found in older botanical literature. Additionally, this plant is classified under the synonym Acrocarpus fraxinifolius var. guangxiensis to denote specific regional variations. Researchers also encounter it listed as Acrocarpus grandis depending on the specific classification system being utilized. Finally, the name Mezoneuron grande serves as another valid synonym for this versatile species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that plays a vital role in its ecosystem. This species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the diverse order Fabales. Within this botanical hierarchy, it is specifically nested in the family Fabaceae. Further taxonomic precision places the plant within the specialized genus Acrocarpus. Understanding these biological relationships helps researchers better appreciate its unique evolutionary lineage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Acrocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is a versatile species with a broad geographic range spanning across two major continents. In Africa, it is notably distributed throughout East Tropical Africa, including the countries of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its reach extends significantly into Asia, where it thrives within temperate regions. Specifically, the plant is well-established in various parts of China, including both the South-Central and Southeast territories. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse ecological environments across the globe.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is a self-supporting tree characterized by its robust and sturdy growth form. This species can reach impressive dimensions, achieving a maximum height of up to 45 meters in the wild. Its structural stability allows it to stand prominently within its natural forest habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius possesses a complex chemical profile that contributes to its significant medicinal properties. Through GC-MS analysis of its n-hexane leaf extract, several major bioactive compounds were identified. Specifically, the plant was found to contain lupeol, which constitutes a notable portion of its chemical makeup. Additionally, the extract contains phytol and squalene, further enhancing its biological potential. These essential components support the overall antihepatotoxic and antioxidant efficacies observed in the study.
Conditions
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius leaves possess significant hepatoprotective properties that can mitigate damage caused by paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity. Through GC-MS analysis, the n-hexane extract was found to contain major bioactive compounds such as α-tocopherol, lupeol, and squalene. In studies involving male albino rats, a high dose of 500 mg/kg b.w. of the extract significantly alleviated liver weight increases and improved various serum biomarkers. This treatment effectively regulated aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and lipid profiles while enhancing hepatic total antioxidant capacity. Ultimately, the extract demonstrates potent antihepatotoxic and antioxidant efficacies against paracetamol-induced injury.
Preparations
Parts used
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius contains bioactive components within its leaves that demonstrate significant medicinal potential. Recent studies utilized GC-MS analysis to identify thirty-six distinct compounds in the n-hexane extract of these leaves. Major constituents such as α-tocopherol, lupeol, and squalene contribute to the plant's therapeutic profile. Research specifically highlights the extract's ability to alleviate liver damage and oxidative stress in models of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the leaf extract serves as an effective antioxidant and hepatoprotective agent.