Artocarpus integer
What's the taxonomical classification of Artocarpus integer?
Artocarpus integer belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. As a member of the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, it falls under the order Rosales. This plant is a representative of the family Moraceae, specifically situated within the genus Artocarpus, and is identified by its specific species name, integer.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Artocarpus |
| Species | integer |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Artocarpus integer has large, alternate, coriaceous leaves that are elliptic to oblong in shape, featuring an entire margin and an obtuse or acute apex. The foliage is characterized by a lustrous dark green upper surface and a paler underside. The plant produces medium-sized, globose to subglobose fruits that are covered in soft, fleshy protuberances rather than hard spines. These fruits contain numerous seeds embedded within a sweet, yellowish pulp. The tree itself typically reaches a significant height with a sturdy trunk and a spreading canopy.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, specifically spanning across parts of Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. It thrives in humid, low-altitude environments where dense canopy coverage is prevalent. Within these regions, its range is often concentrated in peninsular areas and various island chains. The species is typically found in undisturbed forest habitats that provide consistent moisture and warm temperatures. Localized populations may also be scattered throughout parts of Southern China depending on the specific ecosystem.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant, commonly known as cempedak, thrives in tropical climates with well-drained, fertile soils and high annual rainfall.
It requires consistent moisture but cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions that lead to root rot. Planting should occur in full sunlight to ensure optimal fruit development and tree health. Regular organic mulching helps maintain the humidity and soil nutrients necessary for its growth.
Once established, the trees are relatively hardy but benefit from occasional pruning to manage canopy size.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Artocarpus integer is utilized medicinally through the application of its aerial parts and its roots. The aerial parts, including the leaves and bark, are frequently prepared as decoctions or infusions to treat various ailments. These components are often employed for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Meanwhile, the roots are processed to address specific internal conditions and systemic issues. Together, these distinct sections provide a diverse range of therapeutic applications in traditional medicine.
According to a study published by "Phytochemistry", an antimalarial stilbene was isolated from the aerial parts of Artocarpus integer. This prenylated stilbene, identified as trans-4-(3-methyl-E-but-1-enyl)-3,5,2',4'-tetrahydroxystilbene, demonstrated an EC50 of 1.7 micrograms/ml against Plasmodium falciparum in culture. The study also isolated two known stilbenes from the plant, which were trans-4-isopentenyl-3,5,2',4'-tetrahydroxystilbene and 4-methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-6-(2-(2,4-dihydroxy)phenyl-trans-ethenyl)chromene. The structures of these specific compounds were deduced using spectral data.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- aerial parts
- root
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, known as the cempedak, has been utilized by Southeast Asian communities for centuries as both a nutritional staple and a source of medicinal remedies.
The fleshy, sweet pulp of the ripe fruit is consumed fresh or processed into various traditional desserts and fermented products. Beyond its culinary importance, different parts of the tree are integrated into folk medicine to treat ailments such as skin issues or digestive problems. The seeds are also frequently boiled or roasted to serve as an additional energy source for local populations.
Historically, the tree has played a central role in the agricultural landscape of tropical regions, providing shade and sustenance to rural villages.
What are the pharmacological activities of Artocarpus integer?
This plant has significant pharmacological activities including antimalarial, antimicrobial, and antityrosinase properties derived from its bioactive secondary metabolites. Researchers have identified that its various extracts can effectively inhibit the growth of several pathogenic microorganisms. The plant also demonstrates a capacity to combat malaria parasites, offering potential for new antimalarial drug development. Additionally, its antityrosinase activity makes it a valuable subject for studies regarding skin pigmentation and cosmetic applications. These diverse medicinal qualities highlight the therapeutic potential of Artocarpus integer in modern pharmacology.
According to a study published by "Phytochemistry", an anti-malarial guided study of the aerial parts of Artocarpus integer led to the isolation of the prenylated stilbene, trans-4-(3-methyl-E-but-1-enyl)-3,5,2',4'-tetrahydroxystilbene. This specific compound demonstrated an EC50 of 1.7 micrograms/ml against Plasmodium falciparum in culture. The study also isolated the known stilbenes trans-4-isopentenyl-3,5,2',4'-tetrahydroxystilbene and 4-methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-6-(2-(2,4-dihydroxy)phenyl-trans-ethenyl)chromene. The structures of these isolated compounds were deduced using their spectral data.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-malarial
- antimicrobial
- antityrosinase
- antityrosinase activity
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a diverse array of bioactive secondary metabolites including artocarpanone, artocarpin, arylbenzofuran 19, cudraflavone C, and flavone 12. These specific medicinal compounds are primarily concentrated within the various parts of the tree, such as the bark, leaves, and fruit. Researchers study these substances to understand their potential pharmacological properties in treating different health conditions. The presence of these unique chemical structures contributes to the overall therapeutic profile of the species. Detailed phytochemical analysis continues to reveal how these individual molecules interact with biological systems.
According to a study published by "Archives of pharmacal research", the root extract of Artocarpus integer showed a tyrosinase inhibition of 90.57 ± 2.93 %. This extract demonstrated antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, S. epidermidis, P. acnes, and T. mentagophytes with inhibition zones of 9.10 ± 0.00, 10.67 ± 0.09, 15.25 ± 0.05, and 6.60 ± 0.17 mm, respectively. Three pure compounds, artocarpin, cudraflavone C, and artocarpanone, were isolated from the plant. Artocarpanone exhibited an anti-tyrosinase effect, while artocarpin and cudraflavone C showed antibacterial potential against S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and P. acnes. These two compounds had MIC values of 2, 4, and 2 μg/ml and an MBC of 32 μg/ml for these bacteria.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- artocarpanone
- artocarpin
- cudraflavone C
- flavonoid
- flavone
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating microbial skin infection including Propioniobacterium acnes infection, Staphylococcus aureus infection, Staphylococcus epidermidis infection, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes infection. The extracts derived from Artocarpus integer demonstrate significant antimicrobial properties against these specific pathogens. These bioactive compounds target the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause various dermatological issues. By inhibiting these microorganisms, the plant serves as a natural remedy for skin-related ailments. This therapeutic potential makes it a valuable subject for studying natural antimicrobial agents.
According to a study published by "Archives of pharmacal research", Artocarpus integer root extract is used to address dermatological disorders and microbial skin infections that cause hyperpigmentation. The extract showed a potential for tyrosinase inhibition of 90.57 ± 2.93 %. It also demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Propionibacterium acnes, and Trichophyton mentagophytes with inhibition zones of 9.10 ± 0.00, 10.67 ± 0.09, 15.25 ± 0.05, and 6.60 ± 0.17 mm, respectively. Additionally, isolated compounds artocarpin and cudraflavone C showed antibacterial potential against S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and P. acnes with MIC at 2, 4, and 2 μg/ml, and an MBC at 32 μg/ml. These findings suggest possibilities for new whitening and antibacterial development.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- dermatological disorders
- hyperpigmentation
- microbial skin infection
- Staphylococcus aureus infection
- Propionibacterium acnes infection
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Artocarpus integer, which is used to create medicinal herbal preparations such as Artocarpus integer root extract for various therapeutic purposes. The various parts of the tree, including the bark and leaves, are often processed into decoctions or infusions to treat ailments like skin infections and digestive issues. These preparations frequently rely on the plant's natural bioactive compounds to provide anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial effects. Researchers are increasingly studying these traditional extracts to better understand their specific biochemical properties. Such herbal remedies remain a significant component of traditional medicine in Southeast Asian regions.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", a phytochemical investigation of Artocarpus integer root extract led to the isolation of 2 new geranylated xanthones, 1 new geranylated flavone, 1 new flavanone, 1 unique benzoisopyran, and 16 known compounds. Within these findings, two different types of compounds, flavone 12 and arylbenzofuran 19, displayed the most potent antityrosinase activity. Compound 12 showed an IC50 value of 1.7 ± 0.2 μM, while compound 19 displayed an IC50 value of 1.2 ± 0.1 μM. Kinetic measurements and molecular docking simulations revealed that compound 12 is a competitive inhibitor binding with the tyrosinase active site. Conversely, compound 19 functions as a noncompetitive tyrosinase inhibitor binding the enzyme at the allosteric site.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Artocarpus integer root extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause allergic reactions, digestive issues, and potential skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Some people may experience itching or rashes when the sap comes into contact with the skin. Consuming excessive amounts of the fruit might lead to stomach discomfort or changes in bowel movements. These adverse effects typically occur when the plant is handled improperly or consumed in large quantities without caution. Monitoring personal tolerance is essential to avoid these minor health complications.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Artocarpus integer?
This plant, Artocarpus integer, commonly known as cempedak, pairs effectively with aromatic herbs like lemongrass, ginger, and pandan to enhance its natural sweetness and complex fragrance.
The citrusy notes of lemongrass provide a bright contrast to the dense, tropical richness of the fruit. Ginger adds a subtle warmth that complements the custard-like texture of the pulp. Pandan leaves infuse a nutty, vanilla-like undertone that integrates seamlessly with the plant's inherent aromas.
These combinations are frequently used in Southeast Asian desserts and savory preparations to balance the intense flavors.