Beilschmiedia madang

Beilschmiedia madang · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Beilschmiedia madang is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique chemical properties. Researchers have identified the presence of dehatrine within the plant, a compound that serves as a focal point for biochemical studies. This specific chemical constituent is currently being investigated for its potential therapeutic applications in medicine. Most notably, the plant demonstrates promising antimalarial activities that could aid in the fight against parasitic diseases. Consequently, studying this species offers valuable insights into the development of new pharmacological treatments.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Laurus Madang · Litsea Bancana · 7 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Lauraceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Synonyms

Beilschmiedia madang is a botanical species that has been identified through various taxonomic classifications over time. Scientific literature recognizes several synonyms for this plant, including Beilschmiedia curtisii and Beilschmiedia malaccensis. It is also closely associated with the names Beilschmiedia perakensis and Beilschmiedia roxburghiana var. malaccensis in different studies. Furthermore, the species has been historically referred to as Laurus madang within certain botanical contexts. Understanding these shifting nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and research.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Beilschmiedia madang is a distinctive botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Laurales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. As a member of the family Lauraceae, it shares characteristics with many other aromatic plants. Finally, its specific identity is defined by its placement within the genus Beilschmiedia.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Laurales
Family Lauraceae
Genus Beilschmiedia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Beilschmiedia madang is a notable botanical species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Its presence is widely felt across the Malesia zone, spanning several key island ecosystems. Specifically, this plant can be found thriving in the diverse landscapes of Borneo and Jawa. It also maintains a significant footprint within the lush environments of Malaya and Sumatera. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ecological importance within the Malesian tropical belt.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Beilschmiedia madang is a distinguished tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting structure. This robust growth form allows it to establish a commanding presence within its natural habitat. Depending on environmental conditions, the plant typically reaches a maximum height of 20 meters. However, under optimal circumstances, it can continue to grow until it attains a height of up to 24 meters.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Beilschmiedia madang is an Indonesian medicinal plant that contains potent bioactive compounds. Researchers have identified a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid known as dehatrine as its major antimalarial principle. This specific alkaloid was found to exist as a mixture of two distinct rotational isomers. Through bioassay-guided separation, scientists determined that dehatrine significantly inhibits the growth of the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum K1 strain. Remarkably, the compound demonstrates antimalarial activity comparable to the efficacy of quinine.

Compounds

Beilschmiedia madang is an Indonesian medicinal plant that serves as the natural source of the alkaloid known as dehatrine. This specific bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid was isolated as a major principle through meticulous bioassay-guided separations. Detailed structural analyses, including X-ray crystallography and 2D NMR techniques, reveal that dehatrine exists as a mixture of two rotational isomers. Beyond its complex chemical structure, the compound demonstrates significant pharmacological potential in combating malaria. Specifically, dehatrine has been shown to inhibit the growth of chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum with an efficacy comparable to quinine.

Conditions

Beilschmiedia madang contains a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid known as dehatrine that functions as a potent antimalarial principle. This specific chemical constituent is isolated as a mixture of two rotational isomers. Research indicates that dehatrine significantly inhibits the growth of the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum K1 strain. The effectiveness of this compound is notably similar to the activity observed in quinine. Consequently, the plant serves as a valuable source for treating resistant malaria strains through its bioactive alkaloids.

Preparations

Parts used