Choerospondias axillaris
Choerospondias axillaris · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Choerospondias axillaris is a remarkable plant species known for the diverse therapeutic potential of its fruit. Rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, epicatechin, lignans, and curcumin, this plant offers significant medicinal benefits. Its pharmacological activities include antiarrhythmic, antitumor, and hypoglycemic properties, making it useful for managing cardiovascular diseases and high blood sugar. Beyond its health benefits, the fruit is highly versatile in culinary applications, ranging from juices and jams to candies and fruit pastilles. Consequently, this plant serves as both a nutritious food source and a valuable subject for medicinal research.
- Synonyms
- Poupartia Axillaris · Spondias Axillaris
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Choerospondias axillaris is a fascinating botanical species known by a variety of descriptive common names across different regions. In many parts of the world, it is frequently referred to as the Nepali hog-plum or the Cajá-do-himalaia. Some botanical circles also recognize it through the names Poupartia axillaris and Spondias axillaris. Furthermore, the plant carries the specific Czech designation of slivkovníček pazušný. These diverse naming conventions highlight the global presence and cultural significance of this unique tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Choerospondias axillaris is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various scientific names in taxonomic literature. Due to shifting classifications, this plant is recognized by the synonym Poupartia axillaris in certain contexts. It is also commonly referred to as Spondias axillaris, reflecting its complex historical relationship with the Spondias genus. Understanding these nomenclatural connections is essential for researchers navigating diverse botanical databases. Consequently, recognizing these synonyms ensures accuracy when studying the plant's unique characteristics and distribution.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Choerospondias axillaris is a unique botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the diverse flowering plants. The species is further organized into the order Sapindales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. It is a member of the specific genus Choerospondias, distinguishing it from many other closely related species. Finally, this plant is a prominent representative of the family Anacardiaceae, connecting it to a wide array of tropical flora.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Choerospondias |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Choerospondias axillaris is a distinctive species widely distributed across the temperate regions of Asia. Within China, its presence is noted across diverse territories, including the North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions. The plant also thrives in the unique high-altitude landscapes of Tibet. Beyond the Chinese mainland, its range extends further east into the temperate environments of Japan. This broad geographical footprint highlights the plant's adaptability to various East Asian climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Choerospondias axillaris is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its natural habitat. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 15 meters as it matures. Its distinct growth form makes it a notable feature of the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Choerospondias axillaris is a versatile medicinal plant that demonstrates significant pharmacological potential across several therapeutic areas. Research indicates that specific flavone ingredients within the plant exhibit antiarrhythmic properties by resisting arrhythmias induced by aconitine in experimental models. Furthermore, the fruit extract has shown antitumor activity, specifically by inhibiting the proliferation of human breast carcinoma cells through the regulation of key proteins. The plant also serves as a potential source of hypoglycemic bioactive components, as its compounds demonstrate potent inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. Collectively, these findings suggest that Choerospondias axillaris could serve as a valuable resource for developing functional foods and new therapeutic agents.
Compounds
Choerospondias axillaris is a medicinal plant recognized for its significant role in treating coronary heart disease through its broad anti-inflammatory activities. Recent scientific analysis using advanced mass spectrometry has successfully identified several bioactive components within this complex natural product. Notably, the plant contains the important flavonoids epicatechin and curcumin. These extracted components contribute to the plant's solid pharmacodynamic foundation, particularly in managing conditions like acute blood stasis. Such findings highlight the efficacy of using selective ligand-extraction methods to study the therapeutic potential of this species.
Conditions
Choerospondias axillaris demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating Collagen-Induced Arthritis (CIA) through the reduction of inflammatory cytokines. The plant's flavone ingredients also exhibit antiarrhythmic actions that can prolong the onset of ventricular fibrillation and HA. Furthermore, the fruit serves as a source of potential hypoglycemic bioactive components due to its ability to inhibit $\alpha$-glucosidase. In cardiovascular studies, the plant protects against I/R injury by increasing antioxidant enzyme levels and decreasing malondialdehyde. Ultimately, the total flavones of Choerospondias axillaris mitigate I/R-induced myocardium impairment through anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic activities.
Preparations
Choerospondias axillaris is utilized globally to produce a diverse variety of edible products derived from its fruit. This plant is commonly prepared as candy and fruit pastille to serve as sweet treats. Additionally, the fruit can be processed into leathers for a chewy snack. It is also frequently transformed into liquid forms such as juice. Finally, the fruit is often prepared as jam, making it a versatile ingredient for functional foods.
Parts used
Choerospondias axillaris is a versatile plant species whose fruit has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse medicinal properties. Known commonly as south wild jujube or Lapsi, the fruit is widely consumed in various forms such as juices, jams, and candies. Recent chemical studies have identified numerous bioactive compounds within the fruit, including flavonoids and lignans, which contribute to its functional food status. Research indicates that extracts from the fruit may offer potent hypoglycemic effects by inhibiting $\alpha$-glucosidase activity. Furthermore, these extracts demonstrate promising therapeutic potential in regulating cell death in breast cancer cells and reducing inflammation in models of rheumatoid arthritis.