Antidesma ghaesembilla

Antidesma ghaesembilla · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Antidesma ghaesembilla is a noteworthy botanical species that has garnered interest due to its complex chemical composition. Scientific investigations into this plant have identified several key bioactive compounds, including asperphenamate, chavibetol, daucosterol, and sitostenol. To study these constituents effectively, researchers typically utilize dichloromethane and methanol extracts for laboratory analysis. These specific preparations allow for a comprehensive evaluation of the plant's secondary metabolites. Understanding these chemical profiles is essential for unlocking the potential therapeutic properties of the species.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Antidesma Pubescens · Tsjeru-Caniram Grossularioides · 9 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Phyllanthaceae
Distribution
Africa
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Antidesma ghaesembilla is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In certain areas, it is affectionately referred to as Ande-ande or Binayuyu. It also goes by the name Chòi mòi, reflecting its presence in different linguistic landscapes. English speakers may recognize it as the black currant-tree due to its fruit characteristics. Finally, the plant is identified in other traditions as fang ye wu yue cha.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Antidesma ghaesembilla is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this plant is frequently identified by the alternative name Antidesma frutescens. It also encompasses several specific varieties, including Antidesma ghaesembilla var. paniculatum and Antidesma ghaesembilla var. vestitum. Further synonymy exists through the names Antidesma paniculatum and Antidesma pubescens, which can lead to confusion in field studies. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural connections is essential for accurate botanical classification and research.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Antidesma ghaesembilla is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It specifically falls into the order Malpighiales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, this species is a member of the Phyllanthaceae family. Finally, it is identified by its unique designation within the genus Antidesma.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Malpighiales
Family Phyllanthaceae
Genus Antidesma

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Antidesma ghaesembilla exhibits a widespread distribution that spans across various ecological zones in Asia. Within the temperate regions of China, this species is commonly found in the South-Central and Southeast territories, as well as on the island of Hainan. Its presence also extends into tropical landscapes, particularly throughout the Indian Subcontinent. Specifically, the plant thrives in the regions of Assam and Bangladesh. This diverse range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to both temperate and tropical climates.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Antidesma ghaesembilla is a distinctive tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This plant exhibits a versatile range of sizes depending on its environment, typically reaching a minimum height of 1 meter. While it often grows to a modest 10 meters, some specimens can reach impressive heights of 15 meters or more. This variability in stature allows the species to adapt effectively within various forest structures. Ultimately, its structural independence makes it a resilient component of its native ecosystem.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Antidesma ghaesembilla is a significant medicinal and food plant utilized across many Asian countries. Chemical analysis of its bark through dichloromethane and methanol extracts reveals a complex profile of isolated substances. Specifically, the plant contains several notable compounds, including asperphenamate and chavibetol. Researchers have also identified the presence of daucosterol and sitostenone within its chemical makeup. Furthermore, the plant contains protocatechuic acid, contributing to the diverse range of substances found in this species.

Conditions

Preparations

Antidesma ghaesembilla is prepared as a dichloromethane and methanol extract to facilitate the isolation of various chemical substances. Through this specific extraction process, researchers successfully identified ten distinct compounds from the plant's bark. These isolated materials include sitostenone, daucosterol, chavibetol, and asperphenamate, among others. The extraction also yielded two novel aristolic acid derivatives that are of significant medical interest. Ultimately, using dichloromethane and methanol allows for the study of components that may be linked to aristolochic acid nephropathy.

Parts used