Albizia coriaria
Albizia coriaria · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Albizia coriaria is a versatile medicinal plant known for its significant therapeutic potential in treating various ailments. Research indicates that its leaves and roots possess potent antimalarial, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities. These biological properties are driven by a rich profile of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, and phenols. Scientists often study these benefits using diverse preparations, such as aqueous, crude, ethyl acetate, and 70% hydroethanolic extracts. Consequently, the plant serves as a valuable natural resource in the fight against malaria and various bacterial diseases.
- Synonyms
- Feuilleea Coriaria · Albizia Poissonii · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Synonyms
Albizia coriaria is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different scientific names within various taxonomic records. Researchers often encounter this plant listed under the synonym Albizia katangensis, which can sometimes lead to confusion in botanical databases. Similarly, the plant is recognized by the alternative nomenclature of Albizia poissonii in certain historical texts. Further taxonomic discussions may also refer to the species as Feuilleea coriaria, reflecting the shifting classifications within its genus. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for ensuring accuracy when studying the plant's distribution and biological characteristics.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Albizia coriaria belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of the living world. Within this biological hierarchy, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls under the order Fabales, which connects it to a specific group of flowering plants. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the Fabaceae family, a group known for its significant ecological roles. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement within the genus Albizia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Albizia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Albizia coriaria is a resilient species primarily distributed throughout the diverse landscapes of Africa. Within East Tropical Africa, it maintains a significant presence in the nations of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant's range extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it can be found growing in Ethiopia. It also inhabits the regions encompassing both Sudan and South Sudan. Together, these locations highlight the broad ecological footprint this species holds across the African continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Albizia coriaria is a robust, self-supporting tree that establishes a commanding presence in its natural habitat. This species is characterized by a significant growth form, reaching impressive heights as it matures. While it can attain a maximum height of approximately 27.43 meters, some specimens may even reach up to 30 meters. Such stature makes it a prominent feature within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Albizia coriaria is a versatile medicinal plant that has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential across various pharmacological assessments. Research indicates that the species possesses potent antiplasmodial and antimalarial activities, supporting its long-standing traditional use in managing malaria. Furthermore, studies have highlighted its antibacterial properties against several pathogens and its notable antioxidant capacity in managing oxidative stress. However, scientific evaluations also reveal that certain extracts exhibit high cytotoxicity, which necessitates careful consideration regarding its safety and dosage. Consequently, while its diverse bioactivities are promising, further research is required to fully delineate its therapeutic potential for standardized herbal remedies.
Compounds
Albizia coriaria is a customary African medicinal plant recognized for its diverse therapeutic potential in managing oxidative stress and bacterial diseases. Phytochemical screening of its leaves has revealed a rich profile of secondary metabolites, including phenols and flavonoids. Additionally, the plant contains significant amounts of tannins and saponins, which contribute to its biological activities. The presence of cardiac glycosides further highlights the complex chemical composition of this species. These various phytochemical components lend scientific credence to the traditional use of the plant in various medicinal practices.
Conditions
Albizia coriaria is recognized for its traditional use in treating HIV/AIDS among people living with the virus in Uganda. This plant species also demonstrates promising antiplasmodial activity, supporting its indigenous application for the management of malaria. Regarding cancer research, specific saponins isolated from its roots show cytotoxic activity against the HCT 116 and HT-29 colorectal human cancer cell lines. Furthermore, extracts of the plant have exhibited antimicrobial activity against Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum. These diverse pharmacological properties highlight the significant therapeutic potential of Albizia coriaria across various medicinal applications.
Preparations
Albizia coriaria is prepared as 70% hydroethanolic extracts for phytochemical quantification and antiplasmodial efficacy testing. In various studies, the plant is also prepared as aqueous extracts to evaluate its leishmanicidal and antioxidant properties. Researchers have utilized crude plant extracts of this species to investigate its general medicinal applications and toxicity. Additionally, the plant is prepared as ethyl acetate extracts to compare antibacterial activities across different agroecological zones. Finally, shade-dried leaf samples are processed and ground into powder to facilitate these successive solvent extractions.
Parts used
Albizia coriaria is a traditional African medicinal plant that offers significant therapeutic potential through various biological components. Scientific investigations into its leaves have revealed a rich profile of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, phenols, and flavonoids, which contribute to strong antioxidant and antibacterial activities. These leaf extracts demonstrate effectiveness against several pathogens, such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, supporting their use in managing bacterial diseases. Beyond the foliage, the roots of the plant also provide valuable chemical compounds, specifically oleanane-type saponins. Notably, these root-derived glycosides have exhibited promising cytotoxic effects against specific human colorectal cancer cell lines.