Ceiba pentandra
Ceiba pentandra · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ceiba pentandra is a versatile botanical species characterized by its significant pharmacological potential across various plant parts, including the stem, leaf, and root. Research into its aqueous, ethanolic, and methanol crude extracts has revealed a diverse array of bioactive chemicals such as (+)-catechin and 7-Hydroxycadalene. These compounds contribute to impressive biological activities, notably acting as antioxidant, 11B-HSD-inhibitor, 5-alpha-reductase-inhibitor, and 5-lipoxygenase-inhibitor agents. Furthermore, studies involving bark and root bark preparations have demonstrated efficacy against specific microbial conditions like Candida albicans and Torulopsis glabrata. Through these complex chemical profiles, the plant emerges as a rich source for developing therapeutic applications.
- Synonyms
- Xylon Pentandrum · Bombax Cumanense · 23 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Stem · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Ceiba pentandra is a magnificent tree known by many distinct names across various cultures and regions. It is widely recognized by its common name, the Albero del kapok, which reflects its widespread importance. In certain areas, it is also referred to as the Amazoninkapokkipuu, highlighting its presence in tropical landscapes. Local traditions may call it A̱kum or Bonga, depending on the specific linguistic heritage of the people. Furthermore, the tree is sometimes known as Beiba Bruja, adding a sense of mystery to its storied botanical identity.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ceiba pentandra is a botanically complex species that has been categorized under several different scientific names throughout history. Because of taxonomic shifts, this plant is frequently associated with various synonyms, including Bombax cumanense and Bombax guineense. Researchers also recognize it through its links to Bombax inerme and Bombax mompoxense in different regional studies. Furthermore, the name Bombax orientale serves as another recognized synonym within its extensive botanical lineage. Understanding these overlapping classifications is essential for accurately identifying the species in diverse ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ceiba pentandra is a remarkable specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological classification, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. The tree is further organized into the order Malvales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It finds its place within the genus Ceiba, a group of distinctive tropical trees. Ultimately, this species is a recognized member of the family Malvaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Ceiba |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ceiba pentandra maintains a widespread presence across the African continent, specifically thriving within various tropical regions. In East Tropical Africa, the species is commonly documented throughout the landscapes of Tanzania and Uganda. Its reach extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it plays a role in the local ecology of Chad. The plant also establishes itself within the borders of Eritrea, demonstrating its adaptability to different environments. Finally, its distribution continues through Ethiopia, cementing its status as a significant botanical feature of the region.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ceiba pentandra is a magnificent tree characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This towering species can reach impressive heights, typically starting at a minimum of 15 meters. Many specimens grow even larger, frequently surpassing a height of 35.25 meters in their natural habitats. For those seeking the true scale of this giant, it can reach a maximum height of approximately 60.96 meters. Such significant vertical development makes it a truly dominant presence within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Ceiba pentandra demonstrates significant therapeutic potential due to its robust biochemical properties. Research into traditional herbal drugs used in southeastern Nigeria highlights the plant's impressive antioxidant activity. Specifically, methanol crude extracts of this species have been shown to possess potent free-radical scavenging capabilities. These results indicate that the plant contains high levels of total phenolic and flavonoid content. Such findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of Ceiba pentandra in managing metabolic conditions like diabetes.
Compounds
Ceiba pentandra is a significant medicinal plant that serves as a rich source of various bioactive phytochemicals. Chemical investigations of its root bark have identified the presence of the sesquiterpene lactone 7-hydroxycadalene. Furthermore, studies on the stem bark have confirmed that the plant contains beta-sitosterol, an important sterol. The xanthone glycoside mangiferin was also originally isolated from this species, offering a foundation for anticancer drug development. Additionally, the plant contains the isoflavones vavain and its corresponding glucoside, which have demonstrated inhibitory effects on prostaglandin biosynthesis.
Conditions
Ceiba pentandra demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its various medicinal properties. The plant has shown efficacy in treating diabetes mellitus (DM) due to its alpha-amylase inhibitory and antioxidant capacities. Research also indicates that Ceiba pentandra can treat MTX-impaired renal functions, outperforming standard antioxidants like silymarin in some tests. Furthermore, the extract effectively treats MTX-induced histopathological changes in renal tissue architecture by inhibiting apoptotic and inflammatory cascades. While other plants in the studies addressed fungal pathogens, the provided text specifically highlights these diverse physiological and metabolic benefits for Ceiba pentandra.
Preparations
Ceiba pentandra is prepared as aqueous and ethanolic extracts to evaluate its antidrepanocytary activity. This plant is also prepared as bark for the isolation of novel isoflavones like vavain. Research indicates that Ceiba pentandra is prepared as methanol crude extracts, which demonstrate high phenolic content and potent antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, the species is prepared as root bark to facilitate the discovery of new sesquiterpene lactones. Finally, Ceiba pentandra is prepared as stem barks to isolate specific compounds such as pentandrin and beta-sitosterol.
Parts used
Ceiba pentandra is a versatile plant that contains various biologically active components found across its different structures. Scientific research has successfully isolated unique isoflavones from the stem bark of this species. Furthermore, the leaves and stem of the plant have demonstrated significant inhibitory activity in studies regarding human umbilical venous endothelial cell formation. The root bark also serves as a valuable source of new sesquiterpene lactones with moderate antimicrobial properties. Ultimately, these findings highlight how the stem, leaf, and root of Ceiba pentandra each contribute distinct chemical profiles to the plant.