Casearia guianensis
Casearia guianensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Casearia guianensis is a significant botanical species known for its diverse chemical profile and ecological importance. Within its biological makeup, the plant is particularly noted for containing specialized clerodane diterpenes. These bioactive compounds are primarily concentrated within the plant's leaf structures, offering unique properties for scientific study. Researchers often examine these specific chemical constituents to explore potential pharmacological applications. Understanding the relationship between the leaf chemistry and the species' overall biology remains a key focus in phytochemical research.
- Synonyms
- Samyda Octandra · Casearia Athenaea · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Casearia guianensis is a versatile plant known by a variety of descriptive common names across different regions. In some areas, it is affectionately referred to as Clean Teeth, a name that highlights its unique characteristics. It is also frequently called Guyanese wild coffee or simply Wild Coffee in Trinidad and Tobago. Depending on the local dialect, you may also encounter it being called Cafeillo or Pipewood. These diverse names reflect the plant's widespread presence and its deep connection to various botanical traditions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Casearia guianensis is a botanically complex species that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. Taxonomic studies have linked it to various synonyms, including Casearia athenaea and Casearia fallax. It is also closely associated with the name Iroucana guianensis in certain botanical records. Furthermore, researchers have previously categorized this plant under the labels of Samyda octandra and Guidonia ramiflora var. spinosa. Understanding these nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate classification and scientific consistency.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Casearia guianensis is a distinguished 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 specific evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, this plant is nested within the family Salicaceae, which helps define its botanical characteristics. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Casearia, marking its unique place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Casearia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Casearia guianensis exhibits a broad and diverse geographic distribution that spans across multiple continents. In North America, the species can be found throughout Mexico, including the Gulf region and the southeastern territories. Its reach extends significantly into South America, where it is well-established across various parts of Brazil. Within Brazil, the plant thrives in the northern, northeastern, and southeastern regions of the country. This wide-ranging presence highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse ecological landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Casearia guianensis is a self-supporting tree that plays a distinct role in its local ecosystem. This species typically exhibits a growth form characterized by a sturdy, upright structure. While it can reach a maximum height of 20 meters, it often maintains a more modest stature of around 5 meters. These varying dimensions allow the plant to adapt effectively to its surrounding environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Casearia guianensis contains specific clerodane diterpenes that act to inhibit the interaction of leukocyte function antigen 1 with intercellular adhesion molecule 1. These bioactive compounds, including casearinols A and B as well as casearinones A and B, are isolated directly from the plant's leaves. By utilizing these immunomodulatory substances, the plant effectively treats the binding of T-cell leukocyte function antigen 1 to intercellular adhesion molecule 1. The structural identification of these inhibiting agents is achieved through 2D NMR analysis and spectral comparison. Consequently, the plant plays a direct role in modulating these specific molecular adhesion processes.
Preparations
Parts used
Casearia guianensis serves as a rich botanical source for discovering novel bioactive compounds within its foliage. Researchers have successfully isolated four new clerodane diterpenes, specifically casearinols A and B and casearinones A and B, from the plant's leaves. These specific chemical constituents demonstrate significant potential due to their unique immunomodulatory properties. Through detailed 2D NMR analysis, scientists determined that these compounds effectively inhibit the interaction between leukocyte function antigen 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1. This discovery highlights the medicinal importance of the leaves in regulating complex cellular binding processes.