Cenostigma pluviosum
Cenostigma pluviosum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cenostigma pluviosum is a botanical species recognized for its significant antimalarial activities. Scientific investigations have focused on utilizing the stem to combat infectious conditions such as dysentery and Plasmodium falciparum. Researchers have evaluated various preparations, including crude extract (CE) and seven specific fractions, to determine efficacy. Comparative studies have specifically analyzed 100% ethanolic (F4) and 50% methanolic (F5) preparations to isolate bioactive compounds. Through these diverse extraction methods, the plant shows great promise in the development of medicinal treatments.
- Synonyms
- Caesalpinia Pluviosa · Poincianella Pluviosa
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Cenostigma pluviosum is a versatile tree known by several distinct regional names. It is frequently referred to as Acacia amarilla, a name that highlights its striking characteristics. In certain areas, locals may simply call it Faveira to distinguish it from other species. It also carries the common moniker Palo Brasil, reflecting its deep roots in traditional nomenclature. Finally, the tree is widely recognized as the Sibipiruna, a name that is celebrated in many landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cenostigma pluviosum is a botanical species that is frequently identified by various alternative names in scientific literature. Due to historical taxonomic shifts, this plant is recognized by the synonym Caesalpinia pluviosa. It is also documented under the name Poincianella pluviosa, reflecting different classifications used by researchers over time. Understanding these various designations is essential for accurate identification in both field studies and herbarium records. These synonymous relationships highlight the evolving nature of botanical nomenclature as scientists refine their understanding of plant lineages.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cenostigma pluviosum is a remarkable biological specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast botanical realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is specifically organized into the order Fabales, showcasing its unique evolutionary placement. It further resides within the family Fabaceae, a group known for its diverse and important members. Finally, this species is defined by its membership in the genus Cenostigma.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cenostigma |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cenostigma pluviosum exhibits a remarkable geographic range that spans across two major continents. In Africa, the species is specifically documented within the East Tropical regions of Kenya. Its presence extends significantly into South America, where it has established a strong foothold throughout Brazil. The plant can be found across various Brazilian territories, including the North, Northeast, South, and Southeast regions. This wide distribution highlights the adaptable nature of the species in diverse tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cenostigma pluviosum is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a robust tree. This species is characterized by its impressive stature, typically reaching a maximum height of 20 meters. In certain optimal conditions, however, it can grow even larger, stretching up to a height of 25 meters. Such significant growth allows it to become a prominent feature within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cenostigma pluviosum, also referred to in research as Caesalpinia pluviosa, has demonstrated significant medicinal potential during pharmacological screenings. In a multidisciplinary study of plants used by the Tacana Indians in Bolivia, the bark extracts of this species were specifically tested for their efficacy. The research revealed that these extracts possess notable antimalarial activity in vitro, even against chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. While traditionally utilized by local communities to treat dysentery, these findings suggest a much broader therapeutic application for the plant. Such results highlight the importance of investigating indigenous botanical knowledge to discover new bioactive compounds for combating malaria.
Compounds
Conditions
Cenostigma pluviosum (referred to in the text as Caesalpinia pluviosa) demonstrates significant anti-malarial activity through its various plant fractions. This plant effectively treats Plasmodium falciparum by targeting both chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and drug-resistant (S20) strains. In vivo studies further confirm that the plant treats Plasmodium chabaudi-infected mice by significantly inhibiting parasitaemia. These therapeutic effects are particularly notable in the ethanolic and methanolic fractions used during testing. Ultimately, the plant serves as a potent source for combating various malaria-inducing parasites.
Preparations
Cenostigma pluviosum is processed into a crude extract (CE) obtained from the stem bark through purification using various solvents. This crude extract is further divided into seven fractions for detailed study. Among these components, the plant is prepared as a 100% ethanolic (F4) fraction. It is also prepared as a 50% methanolic (F5) fraction to evaluate its specific biological activities. These various preparations allow for the investigation of the plant's potential therapeutic properties against different malaria strains.
Parts used
Cenostigma pluviosum, also known in botanical studies as Caesalpinia pluviosa, contains a stem that serves as a vital source for therapeutic research. Scientists have focused on extracting crude materials from the stem bark to investigate its potential medicinal benefits. These studies specifically highlight the plant's significant anti-malarial activity against various strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Through rigorous testing, certain fractions derived from the stem have demonstrated the ability to inhibit parasitaemia in vivo. Ultimately, the chemical composition of the stem suggests the presence of unique compounds that may offer synergistic effects with existing drugs.