Carapa guianensis
Carapa guianensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Carapa guianensis is a remarkable botanical species known for its diverse medicinal properties derived primarily from its seeds and flowers. Through various preparations such as oils and extracts, this plant offers significant therapeutic potential in addressing infections and inflammation. Research highlights its specialized biological activities, including acting as an antimalarial agent and a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor. Furthermore, it has demonstrated utility in managing conditions like gastric cancer and providing anti-allergic effects. While it serves many medicinal purposes, users should remain mindful of its potential allergenic qualities.
- Synonyms
- Xylocarpus Guineensis · Persoonia Guareoides · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed · Flower
Classification
Common Names
Carapa guianensis is a versatile tree known by a variety of regional names across its native habitats. It is widely recognized by the common names Acajou and Bois rouge in many parts of the world. In different locales, people may also refer to the species as Cabirma de guinea or simply Carapate. Its nomenclature even shifts geographically, such as being called Cabirma santa within the Dominican Republic. These diverse names reflect the plant's widespread presence and cultural importance in various tropical regions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Carapa guianensis is a botanical species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout history. It is recognized by various synonyms, including the designations Carapa macrocarpa and Granatum guianense. Taxonomic literature also links this plant to the names Guarea mucronulata and Persoonia guareoides. Furthermore, the species has been associated with the name Xylocarpus guineensis in certain contexts. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate identification in botanical research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Carapa guianensis is a remarkable specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is a distinguished member of the Meliaceae family, showcasing unique botanical characteristics. This plant is further organized under the order Sapindales, which defines its evolutionary lineage. Ultimately, its specific identity is established within the genus Carapa.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Carapa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Carapa guianensis maintains a widespread presence across various tropical regions of Southern America and the Caribbean. In South America, the species is notably distributed throughout Brazil, spanning both the northern and northeastern territories. Its reach extends across the Caribbean Sea, where it can be found in Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Furthermore, the plant is established within the Leeward Islands, showcasing its adaptability to diverse island environments. This broad geographical range highlights the significant ecological footprint of the species throughout these warm climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Carapa guianensis is a majestic tree characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This species can reach impressive heights, typically peaking at a maximum of 35 meters. However, under optimal environmental conditions, it is capable of soaring even higher to a maximum of 55 meters. Such significant vertical development allows it to command a prominent presence within its forest ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Carapa guianensis, commonly known as Andiroba, is a multipurpose tree from the Amazon that offers a diverse range of biological benefits. Research into its medicinal properties has highlighted its significant antimalarial activity, making it a valuable resource for pharmaceutical development. Beyond treating diseases, the plant has a long history of traditional use as an effective insect repellent. These therapeutic qualities are largely attributed to bioactive limonoids found within its seed oil. Consequently, the species remains a vital subject of study for both public health and sustainable industrial applications.
Compounds
Conditions
Carapa guianensis possesses significant medicinal potential, specifically demonstrated by its ability to treat LPS-activated NO production through the inhibitory effects of its limonoids. The plant oil also acts as an effective agent to treat CP and MMC by reducing the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and providing antigenotoxicity protection. Furthermore, the species exhibits strong anti-allergic activities by inhibiting the activation of mast cells, eosinophils, and T lymphocytes. These combined effects support its various anti-allergic properties by impairing the signaling pathways triggered by histamine and platelet-activating factor. Through these diverse biological interactions, the plant serves as a powerful tool against both inflammation and chemical-induced mutagenicity.
Preparations
Carapa guianensis is frequently prepared as oil to utilize its diverse medicinal and biological properties. This plant is specifically processed into seeds oil, which serves as a source for isolating bioactive compounds like limonoids. Furthermore, Carapa guianensis is prepared as extracts that have demonstrated significant insecticidal activities against mosquito larvae. The various oils derived from this species are also utilized in the development of pharmaceutical compositions and therapeutic patent applications. These diverse preparations, including its extracts and oils, highlight the plant's multifaceted utility in traditional medicine and industrial applications.
Parts used
Carapa guianensis, commonly known as Andiroba, is a multipurpose tree from the Meliaceae family that offers significant medicinal and industrial value. Scientific research has extensively utilized the seeds of this plant to isolate bioactive limonoids, such as Carapanosins, which exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and neurotoxic properties. Beyond the seeds, the flower of Carapa guianensis serves as a critical source for discovering new compounds like Andirolides. These floral oils contain specialized chemical structures that have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity against various leukemia cell lines. By studying both the seeds and flowers, researchers continue to unlock the therapeutic potential of this essential Amazonian species.