Casimiroa tetrameria
Casimiroa tetrameria · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Casimiroa tetrameria is a plant species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in treating various medical conditions. Research indicates that its leaves contain bioactive compounds, including furanocoumarin and specific polymethoxylated flavonoids like 5,6,2',3',5',6'-hexamethoxyflavone. When prepared as crude, ethanol, or polymethoxylated flavonoid-rich fractions, these extracts demonstrate potent spasmolytic activities. These chemical properties make the plant particularly useful in addressing gastrointestinal disorders and managing symptoms of dysentery. Consequently, the medicinal value of Casimiroa tetrameria lies in its ability to alleviate intestinal spasms through its diverse chemical profile.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Casimiroa tetrameria is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of names depending on the region and local tradition. It is frequently referred to as sapote blanco or the woolly-leaf white sapote in many botanical circles. Some communities also identify the species as matasano, highlighting its diverse cultural presence. Furthermore, it is sometimes called yellow sapote to describe its distinctive characteristics. In certain specific contexts, the plant is even recognized by the name Ajachel.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Casimiroa tetrameria is a unique botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Sapindales, showcasing its complex evolutionary lineage. The species is a prominent member of the family Rutaceae, a group known for its distinct characteristics. Finally, this plant is identified by its specific genus, Casimiroa.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Casimiroa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Casimiroa tetrameria exhibits a broad and diverse geographical range that spans across several significant regions. In North America, the species is widely distributed throughout various parts of Mexico, including the Gulf, Southeast, and Southwest territories. Its reach extends southward into Central America, where it can be found thriving in countries such as Belize. Additionally, the plant establishes a presence within Costa Rica, highlighting its adaptability to different climates. This extensive distribution underscores the plant's ability to inhabit a variety of ecological niches across the Americas.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Casimiroa tetrameria is a self-supporting plant that adopts a distinct tree growth form. It reaches a maximum height of approximately 10 meters as it matures. This structural stability allows it to thrive within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Casimiroa tetrameria is a medicinal plant traditionally utilized by the Yucatec Maya to manage various gastrointestinal disorders. Scientific investigations have confirmed that the plant possesses significant spasmolytic activity, making it effective for treating cramps and dysentery. Through phytochemical analysis, researchers isolated several compounds, including polymethoxylated flavonoids, which are primarily responsible for these therapeutic effects. Testing in pharmacological models demonstrated that these extracts can effectively inhibit ileum contractions and reduce intestinal secretions. Ultimately, the plant's ability to relieve spasms stems from a complex synergy of multiple structurally related compounds.
Compounds
Casimiroa tetrameria serves as a significant subject in the ongoing phytochemical study of medicinal plants used by the Yucatec Maya. Recent investigations into the leaves of this plant have yielded a diverse array of chemical compounds through an ethyl acetate partition. Notably, researchers successfully isolated a specific furanocoumarin alongside several polymethoxylated flavonoids from the ethanol extract. The identification of these substances, including 5-methoxy-8-(3''-hydroxymethyl-but-2''-enyloxy)-psoralen, was achieved using advanced NMR and NOESY spectroscopy. This discovery highlights the complex chemical profile inherent to Casimiroa tetrameria and its potential therapeutic value.
Conditions
Casimiroa tetrameria is utilized by the Maya of the Yucatán peninsula to treat various gastrointestinal disorders. Specifically, the leaves of this medicinal plant are commonly used to alleviate the symptoms of diarrhoea and dysentery. The plant also serves as an effective remedy for managing gastrointestinal cramps. Scientific investigations support these traditional uses by demonstrating the plant's spasmolytic and antidiarrhoeal properties. Through the action of various phytochemical compounds, the plant provides targeted relief for these specific gastrointestinal problems.
Preparations
Casimiroa tetrameria is prepared as various extracts to investigate its medicinal properties for treating gastrointestinal disorders. Researchers have specifically utilized an ethanol extract of the leaves to isolate key phytochemicals like furanocoumarins and flavonoids. Within these studies, the plant is also prepared as a crude extract to demonstrate prominent antisecretory activity. Furthermore, polymethoxylated flavonoid-rich fractions are prepared from the plant to test their inhibitory effects on histamine-induced contractions. These different preparations collectively provide evidence for the plant's effectiveness in managing conditions such as diarrhoea and cramps.
Parts used
Casimiroa tetrameria serves as a vital medicinal resource within the traditional practices of the Yucatec Maya. The leaves of this plant are specifically utilized to treat various gastrointestinal disorders, including diarrhea, dysentery, and cramping. Phytochemical investigations of these leaves have successfully isolated several bioactive compounds, such as polymethoxylated flavonoids and a furanocoumarin. Experimental models demonstrate that extracts derived from the foliage possess strong inhibitory effects on intestinal contractions and secretory activity. Ultimately, the therapeutic benefits of the plant arise from a complex synergy of these structurally related chemical constituents.