Calophyllum inophyllum
Calophyllum inophyllum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Calophyllum inophyllum is a versatile plant whose therapeutic potential is derived from its leaves, stems, and seeds. Through various preparations such as plant extracts, seed oils, and nut oil resin, researchers have unlocked its significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The plant contains specialized chemical compounds, including calophyllolide, calophyllic acid, and isocalophyllic acid, which drive its biological effects. These constituents are currently being studied for their ability to treat conditions ranging from burns to complex diseases like breast cancer. Ultimately, the diverse chemical profile of Calophyllum inophyllum offers promising applications in both antioxidant therapy and cancer research.
- Synonyms
- Calophyllum Inophyllum F. Oblongata · Calophyllum Inophyllum F. Obovata · 6 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Calophyllaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Seed
Classification
Common Names
Calophyllum inophyllum is a versatile tree known by a wide variety of descriptive common names. It is frequently referred to as the Alexandrian Laurel or Alexandrian-laurel depending on regional preferences. In coastal environments, many people recognize it simply as the Beach Calophyllum. Its striking foliage has also earned it the elegant moniker of Beautyleaf. Additionally, some botanical circles identify the species as the Borneo Mahogany.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Calophyllum inophyllum is a diverse species that is recognized by several different botanical names in scientific literature. It is frequently identified by its synonyms, including Balsamaria inophyllum and Calophyllum bintagor. Other taxonomic variations associated with this plant include Calophyllum blumei. The species also encompasses specific forms such as Calophyllum inophyllum f. oblongata. Additionally, the classification includes the variety known as Calophyllum inophyllum f. obovata.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Calophyllum inophyllum is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the diverse order Malpighiales, showcasing its place in a complex evolutionary lineage. Further narrowing its identity, the plant is situated within the family Calophyllaceae. Ultimately, it is defined by its specific genus, Calophyllum, which highlights its unique botanical characteristics.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Calophyllaceae |
| Genus | Calophyllum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Calophyllum inophyllum exhibits a broad and diverse distribution across the African continent. In the eastern regions, the species is well-established within the tropical landscapes of both Kenya and Tanzania. Its presence extends southward into the tropical environments of Mozambique. The plant's reach also spans westward, finding suitable habitats throughout the tropical zones of Africa. Specifically, this species can be found growing in the West Tropical African nations of Gambia and Guinea.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Calophyllum inophyllum is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence in its natural habitat. This species exhibits a versatile growth form, typically reaching significant heights as it matures. While it can grow as small as 5 meters, many specimens extend much further upward. Most of these trees settle into a mature range starting at approximately 11.83 meters. Ultimately, the species can reach a maximum height of 25 meters, making it a prominent feature of its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Calophyllum inophyllum serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds with diverse therapeutic potential. Research into its seed oil has demonstrated that nanoemulsion formulations can effectively harness its inherent antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, the plant exhibits strong antioxidant properties, which can be further enhanced when combined with other medicinal extracts. Studies on its leaf constituents, such as calophyllic and canophyllic acids, also confirm potent antioxidant capabilities in vitro. These combined findings highlight the plant's versatility in developing advanced biomedical treatments for wound healing and oxidative stress.
Compounds
Calophyllum inophyllum is a medicinal plant recognized for its rich profile of diverse bioactive chemical constituents. Research has successfully isolated calophyllolide from the plant's nut oil resin, highlighting its potential therapeutic value. The stems and leaves of the species have also been found to contain specific xanthone derivatives, namely 2-hydroxyxanthone and 4-hydroxyxanthone. Furthermore, the presence of 6-deoxyjacareubin has been identified within these same botanical structures. Finally, the plant contains calophyllic acid, a compound that has demonstrated significant potential in stimulating glucose uptake for metabolic management.
Conditions
Calophyllum inophyllum demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by inhibiting Epstein--Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. This medicinal plant also provides effective antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, which can be enhanced through specific nanoemulsion formulations. Its extracts have shown notable anticancer properties, specifically through antiproliferative effects on patient-derived breast cancer cells by modulating reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, the plant is recognized for its ability to promote wound healing and treat burns. These diverse biological activities highlight its value as a versatile agent in both cancer chemoprevention and dermatological care.
Preparations
Calophyllum inophyllum is prepared as CSO to improve biomedical activities such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and wound healing efficacy. This plant is also prepared as plant extracts to identify antioxidant metabolites for skin care applications. Furthermore, Calophyllum inophyllum is prepared as seeds oil for use in stable oil-in-water nanoemulsion formulations. Research also demonstrates that Calophyllum inophyllum is prepared as nut oil resin, from which novel chromanone acid derivatives can be isolated. These various preparations highlight the plant's diverse medicinal and cosmetic utility.
Parts used
Calophyllum inophyllum is a versatile medicinal plant that offers significant therapeutic potential through its various anatomical parts. Research has identified bioactive compounds within its leaves, including calophyllic acid, which can assist in managing diabetes and obesity by stimulating glucose uptake. Additionally, the plant's stems serve as a rich source of diverse flavonoids that have been chemically characterized for their unique structures. The seeds of the species are also highly valuable, as their oil can be formulated into nanoemulsions to enhance antioxidant and wound-healing activities. Collectively, these findings highlight how the leaves, stems, and seeds of Calophyllum inophyllum contribute to its complex pharmacological profile.