Chilocarpus costatus

Chilocarpus costatus · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Chilocarpus costatus is a botanical species that has gained scientific interest due to its potential therapeutic properties. Recent studies have focused on evaluating its biological activity against specific microbial pathogens. In particular, researchers have tested its effectiveness against the bacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis. To facilitate this investigation, chloroform extracts of the plant were prepared for experimental analysis. These findings aim to contribute to the broader understanding of the plant's medicinal potential in combating skin-associated infections.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Chilocarpus Maingayi · Chilocarpus Diepenhorstii · 3 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Apocynaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Synonyms

Chilocarpus costatus is a botanical species that is associated with a diverse array of synonymous names. Within taxonomic literature, this plant is frequently identified by the synonym Chilocarpus aurantiacus. Its classification further includes various forms, such as the specific variety known as Chilocarpus costatus var. borneensis. Researchers also encounter it under different nomenclature, including Chilocarpus cuneifolius and Chilocarpus diepenhorstii. Additionally, the name Chilocarpus maingayi serves as another recognized synonym within its complex biological identity.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Chilocarpus costatus is a distinct botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Gentianales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Chilocarpus, it occupies a unique niche in the natural world. Finally, this plant is categorized within the family Apocynaceae, completing its complex biological profile.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Gentianales
Family Apocynaceae
Genus Chilocarpus

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Chilocarpus costatus is a plant species characterized by its widespread presence across various tropical regions of Asia. Its distribution spans through Indo-China, including specific territories in Myanmar and Thailand. The species is also well-established within the Malesia region, finding fertile habitats across the islands of Borneo and Sumatera. Furthermore, its range extends into the Malay Peninsula, highlighting its ecological adaptability. This diverse geographical footprint underscores the significant presence of the species throughout the Southeast Asian tropics.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Chilocarpus costatus develops into a shrubby growth form that serves as a foundation for its structural development. This plant also possesses an obligatory climbing habit, requiring external support to reach its full height.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Chilocarpus costatus demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its various anti-infective activities. The chloroform extracts of this plant species exhibit good activity against the protozoan Leishmania donovani. Additionally, Chilocarpus costatus shows effective antiplasmodial properties against the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum K1 strain. Beyond protozoa, the plant extract and its isolated compound, pinoresinol, work to increase the sensitivity of Staphylococcus epidermidis to cefotaxime. These diverse interactions highlight the plant's ability to target different infectious pathogens.

Preparations

Chilocarpus costatus is prepared as chloroform extracts to evaluate its medicinal potential against various pathogens. These specific chloroform extracts were tested for their effectiveness against Leishmania donovani and the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum K1 strain. The study revealed that the extracts of this plant species demonstrated good antileishmanial and antiplasmodial activities. Furthermore, the research explored how the extract and its isolated compound, pinoresinol, could enhance bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics. Through this preparation method, the plant's ability to serve as a source for new anti-infective chemotypes was successfully investigated.

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