Adenanthera microsperma
Adenanthera microsperma · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Adenanthera microsperma is a botanical species recognized for its distinct biological and chemical properties. Scientific interest in this plant often focuses on its complex chemical profile, which includes the presence of the flavonoid quercitrin. Researchers frequently utilize various extracts to isolate these bioactive compounds for detailed study. These preparations allow for a deeper understanding of the plant's potential medicinal or industrial applications. Consequently, studying this species provides valuable insights into the diverse phytochemical resources available in nature.
- Synonyms
- Adenanthera Tamarindifolia · Adenanthera Pavonina Var. Microsperma
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Adenanthera microsperma is a unique botanical species known by a diverse array of regional names across the globe. In many areas, it is affectionately referred to as Red Sandalwood due to its distinctive characteristics. Local communities also frequently identify the plant as kenderi or mang lai. In certain regions, it is recognized by the name segawe, showcasing its widespread cultural presence. Finally, in specific linguistic contexts, the tree is also known as korálkovec drobnosemenný.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Adenanthera microsperma is a botanical species that is often identified through various taxonomic classifications. Within scientific literature, it is recognized as having a close relationship with the synonym Adenanthera pavonina var. microsperma. Furthermore, the plant is also linked to the synonym Adenanthera tamarindifolia, reflecting complexities in its naming history. These overlapping designations highlight the intricate nature of plant nomenclature and evolutionary grouping. Understanding these synonyms is essential for researchers seeking to accurately catalog and study this specific taxon.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Adenanthera microsperma is a distinct botanical entity belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls specifically under the order Fabales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. Further narrowing its identity, the plant is a member of the diverse family Fabaceae. Ultimately, it is defined by its specific membership in the genus Adenanthera.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Adenanthera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Adenanthera microsperma exhibits a broad and diverse geographic range that spans across multiple continents. In Africa, this species is notably found within East Tropical Africa, specifically in Tanzania, as well as across the Western Indian Ocean in Mauritius. Its presence extends significantly into Asia, where it thrives within temperate regions. Specifically, it is distributed throughout various parts of China, including the South-Central and Southeast territories. Furthermore, the plant can be found localized to the tropical island of Hainan, highlighting its adaptable nature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Adenanthera microsperma is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its natural habitat. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 20 meters as it matures. Its robust growth form allows it to stand prominently among the surrounding vegetation.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Adenanthera microsperma has emerged as a promising candidate in the search for new anti-inflammatory therapeutics. Recent studies investigating selected Indian medicinal plants have demonstrated that extracts from this species exhibit significant activity in reducing carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. Through the process of column chromatography, researchers were able to isolate specific bioactive marker compounds from the plant. Notably, the analysis confirmed that Adenanthera microsperma contains quercitrin, which was found at a concentration of 1.06% w/w. This specific phytoconstituent is believed to play a crucial role in modulating inflammatory pathways, providing experimental validation for its traditional medicinal uses.
Conditions
Adenanthera microsperma demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory activity when tested in a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. During the study, its methanolic extracts and solvent-partitioned fractions were evaluated for their ability to reduce swelling and modulate pro-inflammatory responses. The plant's efficacy in treating rat paw edema was found to be comparable to the standard drug indomethacin. Researchers isolated the specific marker compound quercitrin from its bioactive extracts to help explain its therapeutic potential. This experimental validation confirms that the plant serves as a promising candidate for developing new anti-inflammatory therapeutics.
Preparations
Adenanthera microsperma is prepared as methanolic extracts to evaluate its medicinal potential. These extracts were specifically tested for their ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide in murine macrophages. In vivo studies further demonstrated that the plant's extracts exhibit significant anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema models. The bioactive components within these extracts, such as quercitrin, were isolated and confirmed through analytical HPLC. Ultimately, these prepared extracts serve as a basis for developing new anti-inflammatory therapeutics.