Aspidosperma pyrifolium
Aspidosperma pyrifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse chemical properties. Research focusing on the plant's stem has led to the identification of significant bioactive compounds, including leucoridine B. Various preparations, such as the crude stem bark extract and alkaloid-rich ethyl acetate fractions, have been rigorously studied for their medicinal potential. These alkaloidic-rich fractions from the stem extract are particularly noted for their pharmacological relevance. Ultimately, the investigation of these extracts aims to explore their efficacy in treating conditions such as malaria.
- Synonyms
- Macaglia Pyrifolia · Aspidosperma Martii · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Pacific
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a versatile species known by a diverse array of regional names. Depending on the local context, it is frequently referred to as Pau-pereiro or simply as Pereiro. Some communities further distinguish the plant by calling it Pereiro-branco or Pereiro-preto. Additionally, the name Pereiro-de-saia is often used to identify this specific botanical entity. These various common names reflect the deep cultural and linguistic connections associated with the plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a complex species that is frequently identified by various botanical synonyms in scientific literature. Researchers often encounter the name Aspidosperma guaraniticum or Aspidosperma martii when studying this plant's taxonomic history. Furthermore, the species is closely linked to the designations Aspidosperma molle and Aspidosperma populifolium. It is also recognized under the specific variation known as Aspidosperma pyrifolium var. molle. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for maintaining accuracy in botanical classification and ecological studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a unique biological entity that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Gentianales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a distinguished member of the family Apocynaceae, which defines many of its botanical characteristics. Ultimately, its identity is solidified by its placement within the genus Aspidosperma.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Aspidosperma |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is widely distributed across the expansive landscapes of Southern America. Within Brazil, this plant can be found spanning diverse regions, including the North, Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central territories. Its presence extends beyond Brazilian borders into the southern reaches of the continent. Specifically, the species is also native to parts of Southern South America and Paraguay. This broad geographical range highlights the plant's adaptability to various South American ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 7 meters during its development. However, under certain conditions, it can grow even larger to reach a height of up to 14 meters. Such structural versatility allows it to establish a significant presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a medicinal plant native to the Brazilian caatinga that has demonstrated significant potential in treating malaria. Research indicates that the species possesses high antiplasmodial activity while maintaining a remarkably low level of cytotoxicity toward human cells. During chemical analysis of its alkaloid-rich stem bark fractions, scientists identified specific bioactive components using UPLC-HRMS. Notably, this fraction contains leucoridine B, a bisindole alkaloid that contributes to the plant's complex chemical profile. These findings suggest that the plant is a promising candidate for the development of new anti-malarial therapies.
Conditions
Aspidosperma pyrifolium serves as a natural anti-inflammatory agent used in medicinal practices. Beyond its anti-inflammatory properties, this plant also demonstrates significant potential in treating malaria. Research indicates that its extracts possess high antiplasmodial activity against parasites like Plasmodium falciparum. In vivo studies have further confirmed that certain fractions of the plant can significantly reduce parasitemia in infected subjects. These dual therapeutic capabilities make the species a promising candidate for developing new treatments for both inflammation and malaria.
Preparations
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is prepared as various extracts to investigate its medicinal properties. These preparations include a crude stem bark extract and several fractionated extracts used for in vitro and in vivo assays. Specifically, the plant is prepared as alkaloid-rich and ethyl acetate fractions from stem extract to evaluate antiplasmodial activity. Researchers also utilized an alkaloidic-rich fraction from stem extract due to its high therapeutic index. These diverse preparation methods allow for the identification of active compounds, such as those compatible with the bisindole alkaloid Leucoridine B.
Parts used
Aspidosperma pyrifolium is a medicinal plant native to the Brazilian caatinga that shows significant promise in treating malaria. Research indicates that the plant possesses high antiplasmodial activity while maintaining low levels of cytotoxicity. Specifically, the stem serves as a vital source for medicinal extracts, including the crude stem bark and various alkaloid-rich fractions. These stem-derived components have demonstrated the ability to significantly reduce parasite levels in experimental models. Given its high therapeutic index and lack of mutagenic effects, this species is a strong candidate for the development of new anti-malarial treatments.