Barringtonia acutangula
Barringtonia acutangula · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Barringtonia acutangula is a remarkable botanical species known for its diverse chemical profile and therapeutic potential. The plant's leaves serve as a primary source of bioactive compounds, including the distinctive Barrinic acid and Tanginol. Research into these constituents has highlighted significant medicinal properties, particularly regarding their potent antioxidant activity. By neutralizing free radicals, these chemical compounds offer promising applications in various health-related studies. Understanding the phytochemical makeup of this plant provides essential insights into its biological importance.
- Synonyms
- Caryophyllus Acutangulus · Butonica Acutangula · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lecythidaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Barringtonia acutangula is a unique botanical species recognized by several distinct local names. It is frequently referred to as the freshwater mangrove due to its specific habitat preferences. Some people also call it the itchytree, a name likely derived from the physical sensations its components may cause. Additionally, the plant is known by the descriptive moniker mango-pine. These varied identities highlight the diverse ways this single species is perceived across different regions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Barringtonia acutangula is a species known to be associated with several different botanical names throughout scientific history. It is recognized under the synonym Butonica acutangula, reflecting various classifications used by researchers. The plant has also been identified as Caryophyllus acutangulus and Eugenia acutangula in different taxonomic contexts. Additionally, literature may refer to this species as Huttum acutangulum or Michelia acutangula. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for accurately identifying the plant across diverse botanical records.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Barringtonia acutangula is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Ericales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, this plant is categorized under the family Lecythidaceae. Finally, its biological identity is defined by its placement within the genus Barringtonia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus | Barringtonia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Barringtonia acutangula is a versatile species with a widespread geographical presence across various Asian regions. Its distribution spans from the temperate zones of Western Asia and Afghanistan into much warmer climates. In tropical areas, the plant is firmly established throughout the Indian Subcontinent, including countries such as India and Pakistan. It also thrives in the specific tropical landscapes of Bangladesh and the Assam region. This broad range demonstrates the plant's ability to adapt to diverse environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Barringtonia acutangula is a versatile tree characterized by its robust, self-supporting growth form. Depending on its environment, this species can vary significantly in stature, starting as a small specimen only 1 meter tall. In many habitats, it reaches a more substantial minimum height of 13 meters. As it matures fully, the tree can achieve a maximum height of up to 25 meters. This wide range of potential sizes allows the plant to adapt effectively to various ecological niches.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Barringtonia acutangula is an evergreen tree belonging to the Lecythidaceae family that possesses significant medicinal potential. Extensive literature regarding this species identifies several key phytoconstituents within its biological structures. Specifically, the plant is known to contain barrinic acid and tanginol, which are primarily found in the wood and fruits. Preliminary studies of the powdered leaves further reveal a complex chemical makeup including terpenes, flavonoids, and tannins. Understanding these chemical relationships is essential for establishing the authenticity and standardization of the plant for pharmaceutical use.
Conditions
Barringtonia acutangula exhibits significant biological potential through its ability to treat antioxidant activity and $\alpha$-glucosidase inhibition. Research indicates that the aqueous flower extracts of this medicinal plant are particularly effective in these areas. Specifically, the high-polar aqueous extract demonstrated strong antioxidant properties and notable $\alpha$-glucosidase inhibition. These bioactivities are largely driven by key phenolic compounds like gallic acid and pyrogallol found within the plant. Molecular studies further confirm that these phenolics form stable complexes to facilitate such inhibitory effects.
Preparations
Parts used
Barringtonia acutangula is an evergreen tree characterized by its simple, alternate leaves and dark scarlet flowers. Scientific investigation into this species has focused heavily on the pharmacognostical evaluation of its leaf to ensure quality and authenticity. Through the use of light and confocal microscopy, researchers have conducted detailed studies on the morphoanatomy of the leaf. Preliminary phytochemical analyses of powdered leaf samples have revealed the presence of essential compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, and tannins. Establishing these specific morphological and histological parameters is crucial for the standardization and identification of the plant's medicinal parts.