Brucea tonkinensis

Brucea tonkinensis · Accepted scientific name

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

Brucea tonkinensis is a distinctive plant species recognized for its unique chemical profile and medicinal potential. Researchers have identified several key bioactive compounds within the plant, including Canthin-6-one, Canthin-6-one N-oxide, and 11-Hydroxycanthin-6-one N-oxide. These specialized chemicals are primarily concentrated within the root of the specimen. For various applications, the root-wood serves as the essential preparation used in studies and traditional practices. Understanding the composition of this plant part is crucial for exploring its full pharmacological significance.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Brucea Mollis Var. Tonkinensis
Common names
Not available
Family
Simaroubaceae
Distribution
Asia-Tropical
Plant Parts
Root

Classification

Synonyms

Brucea tonkinensis is a botanical species that is frequently identified in various scientific databases. Within taxonomic literature, it is recognized by the synonym Brucea mollis var. tonkinensis. This nomenclatural relationship highlights the evolving ways in which researchers classify specific plant varieties. Understanding these connections is essential for botanists seeking to ensure accuracy in plant identification. Such synonymy serves as a vital link between different historical and modern naming conventions.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Brucea tonkinensis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse life found within the botanical world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Sapindales, a group that links it to many other significant woody plants. The plant is a member of the family Simaroubaceae, which is known for producing various bioactive compounds. Ultimately, it is defined by its specific placement within the genus Brucea.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Sapindales
Family Simaroubaceae
Genus Brucea

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Brucea tonkinensis is a notable botanical species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Its presence is particularly significant across the Indo-China peninsula, where it thrives in specific ecological niches. Within this geographic range, Vietnam serves as a key area for its natural occurrence and growth. Understanding these specific habitats is essential for studying the plant's ecological role in the region. Consequently, its localized distribution makes it a unique subject for researchers focusing on Southeast Asian flora.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Biological Activities

Compounds

Brucea tonkinensis serves as a significant source of various bioactive alkaloids found within its root-wood. Scientific analysis has confirmed that this plant contains the notable compound Canthin-6-one. Furthermore, researchers have successfully isolated Canthin-6-one N-oxide from its biological structures. The chemical profile of the species also includes the presence of 11-Hydroxycanthin-6-one N-oxide. Together, these specific alkaloids highlight the complex chemical composition of the Brucea tonkinensis variety.

Conditions

Preparations

Brucea tonkinensis is prepared as root-wood for the isolation of specific chemical compounds. Researchers utilized this part of the plant to extract various canthin-6-one alkaloids. Through chemical and spectral methods, three new alkaloids were successfully identified from this material. These include complex structures such as 11-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosylcanthin-6-one. Additionally, the root-wood yielded known alkaloids like canthin-6-one and canthin-6-one-N-oxide.

Parts used

Brucea tonkinensis, specifically the variety mollis var. tonkinensis, serves as a significant source of unique chemical compounds. Recent studies have focused on isolating canthin-6-one alkaloids from the plant's root-wood components. Researchers successfully identified three new alkaloids through rigorous chemical and spectral analysis. These include complex structures such as 11-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosylcanthin-6-one and its derivatives. Furthermore, the study also confirmed the presence of known alkaloids like canthin-6-one within the root material.