Anadenanthera colubrina
Anadenanthera colubrina · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Anadenanthera colubrina is a versatile plant species recognized for its diverse range of medicinal potential and chemical complexity. Scientific studies have highlighted its significant antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, alongside promising anticholinesterase and antialzheimeran activities. The plant contains vital chemical compounds such as 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, alnusenol, beta-sitosterol, and cinnamic acid. Researchers utilize various preparations, including the gum, bark extract, and aerial parts, to investigate its biological effects. Furthermore, the plant is of particular interest in studies concerning gastrointestinal transit and digestive health.
- Synonyms
- Mimosa Colubrina · Piptadenia Colubrina · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Anadenanthera colubrina is a versatile species known by several distinct regional names. It is widely recognized by the common name Angico, a term that serves as a foundation for its various local identifiers. Depending on the specific variety or location, it may be referred to as Angico do Campo or Angico Preto. Some populations are also distinguished as Angico Rajado, reflecting specific physical characteristics. Finally, the plant is frequently called Angico-branco, illustrating the diverse linguistic landscape surrounding this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Anadenanthera colubrina is a plant species known for its extensive list of botanical synonyms. Depending on the taxonomic classification used, it may be referred to as Acacia colubrina or Acacia peregrina. Researchers also identify the species under the names Mimosa colubrina and Piptadenia colubrina. Furthermore, specific variations within the species are documented as Anadenanthera colubrina var. colubrina. This diversity in nomenclature highlights the complex evolutionary relationships and shifting scientific classifications surrounding the plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Anadenanthera colubrina is a unique biological entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. As a member of the family Fabaceae, it shares characteristics with many other well-known legumes. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its taxonomic identity within the genus Anadenanthera.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Anadenanthera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Anadenanthera colubrina is widely distributed across various regions of South America. In Brazil, this plant can be found spanning across the Northeast, South, Southeast, and West-Central territories. Its presence extends beyond Brazilian borders into the western reaches of the continent. Specifically, it maintains a notable distribution within the nation of Bolivia. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse South American environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Anadenanthera colubrina is a self-supporting tree that establishes a strong presence within its natural habitat. This species typically reaches a height of up to 12 meters, though it can grow even larger in certain conditions. In its most impressive form, the tree can attain a maximum height of 30 meters. This impressive growth form allows it to thrive as a significant component of its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Anadenanthera colubrina is a medicinal plant species highly valued in traditional medicine for its diverse pharmacological properties. Research indicates that its bark extract can be utilized for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles that exhibit potent antimicrobial and antibacterial activities against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Beyond its ability to combat pathogens, the plant also demonstrates significant antioxidant activity, which helps reduce oxidative stress markers in biological systems. Specifically, studies on pulmonary emphysema models have shown that its extracts can mitigate inflammation and oxidative damage in lung tissues. These combined characteristics highlight the innovative therapeutic potential of the species in treating complex respiratory and infectious conditions.
Compounds
Anadenanthera colubrina possesses a diverse chemical profile that includes several noteworthy bioactive compounds. Chemical investigations of its aerial parts have identified the presence of specific substances such as alnusenol and beta-sitosterol. Furthermore, the plant is characterized by the inclusion of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and cinnamic acid. The phytochemical analysis also highlights the presence of various fatty acids within its composition. Together, these constituents contribute to the complex biological properties observed in this species.
Conditions
Anadenanthera colubrina exhibits significant therapeutic potential through its ability to treat E. coli-induced diarrhea by reducing stool output and enteropooling. The plant's bark extract can also be used to synthesize silver nanoparticles that effectively treat the multidrug-resistant ESKAPEE group of bacteria. Furthermore, studies demonstrate that the plant possesses anti-HIV-1 activity, specifically acting as an inhibitor against HIV-1 BaL infection. This medicinal effect is evidenced by its capacity to treat HIV-1 infection by reducing cell-cell fusion. Finally, the extract successfully treats HIV-p24 expression in macrophages, offering a promising path for microbicide development.
Preparations
Anadenanthera colubrina is prepared as aerial parts to isolate flavonoids like anadanthoflavone for lipoxygenase inhibition studies. The species is also prepared as a bark extract to facilitate the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles with antimicrobial properties. Various medicinal studies utilize Anadenanthera colubrina prepared as an extract to demonstrate significant anti-HIV-1 activity and low cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as a gum, which consists of complex high-arabinose heteropolysaccharides and reducing carbohydrates. Finally, Anadenanthera colubrina is prepared as a hydroethanolic extract to investigate its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential in treating pulmonary emphysema.