Andira inermis
Andira inermis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Andira inermis is a versatile botanical species known for its significant pharmacological potential in traditional medicine. The plant's leaves and roots contain bioactive compounds, most notably the chemical lanceolarin, which drive its diverse therapeutic activities. Research indicates that it possesses potent antiplasmodial and absorbent properties, making it relevant in the treatment of malaria. Furthermore, its medicinal profile includes (+)-inotropic effects and actions against Streptococcus pneumoniae. Due to its biological potency, it is also recognized for its abortifacient qualities in specific contexts.
- Synonyms
- Vouacapoua Inermis · Geoffroea Inermis
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Andira inermis is a versatile plant known by several distinct common names depending on the region. It is frequently referred to as the Angelin tree or simply the Angeleen tree. Some enthusiasts and locals also recognize the species as the Avineira. In certain areas, the plant is affectionately called the Cabbage Tree due to its unique characteristics. Furthermore, it is widely recognized by the descriptive name Brown Heart, highlighting its striking inner qualities.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Andira inermis is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, it is often referred to by the synonym Geoffroea inermis. Furthermore, the plant is also recognized under the name Vouacapoua inermis in certain contexts. These overlapping designations reflect the complex historical classifications found within plant taxonomy. Understanding these relationships is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Andira inermis is a notable species belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls specifically into the order Fabales, which connects it to several other significant plant groups. Further taxonomic refinement places the species within the family Fabaceae. Ultimately, this tree is identified by its unique designation under the genus Andira.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Andira |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Andira inermis is a versatile species with a broad geographical footprint across the African continent. Its presence is noted in East Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Tanzania and Uganda. The plant also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, finding suitable habitats in both Chad and the Sudan-South Sudan region. Furthermore, its distribution reaches into West Tropical Africa, where it can be found in Benin. This wide-ranging presence highlights the adaptability of the species to various tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Andira inermis is a distinguished tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This impressive plant can reach significant heights, with maximum dimensions stretching up to 35 meters. While it often attains substantial stature, individual specimens may also be found at much smaller scales. Specifically, its height can range from a minimum of approximately 6.1 meters to a more moderate 19.87 meters. Such diverse size variations highlight the adaptable nature of this remarkable tree within its environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Andira inermis has demonstrated significant antiplasmodial activity through recent scientific investigation. Researchers conducted a bioassay-guided fractionation of the plant's leaves to validate its traditional use in treating malaria. This screening process led to the successful isolation of several important phenolic compounds. Among these findings, three novel 2-arylbenzofuran-3-carbaldehydes, known as andinermals A-C, were identified as key constituents. The study also uncovered a new flavanonol glycoside, further highlighting the complex chemical potential of this species.
Compounds
Andira inermis serves as a rich source of diverse phytochemical compounds. Recent botanical studies have focused on identifying the specific constituents found within its roots. During the isolation process, researchers successfully identified several notable substances. Among these findings, it was confirmed that Andira inermis contains lanceolarin. This discovery highlights the complex chemical profile inherent to the plant species.
Conditions
Andira inermis demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its ability to treat Streptococcus pneumoniae and malaria. Research indicates that extracts from this plant species exhibit promising in vitro bactericidal activity against Pneumococcus, including penicillin-resistant strains. Furthermore, the plant contains specific antiplasmodial constituents known as andinermals A-C that support its traditional use against malaria. These findings highlight the plant's efficacy in combating both bacterial respiratory infections and parasitic diseases. Consequently, its bioactive compounds serve as important candidates for developing new drugs to treat these specific conditions.
Preparations
Parts used
Andira inermis serves as a significant source of diverse bioactive compounds found in different parts of the plant. Research into its leaves has led to the isolation of novel antiplasmodial constituents, including the 2-arylbenzofuran-3-carbaldehydes known as andinermals A-C. Furthermore, the leaves have yielded unique phenolic compounds such as a new flavanonol glycoside. Beyond the foliage, the roots of Andira inermis are also chemically rich, providing essential substances for pharmacological study. Specifically, investigations into the roots have successfully isolated a new isoflavonol triglycoside and other known compounds like genistein.