Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (5 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cinchona officinalis is a significant botanical species primarily valued for its medicinal properties found within its stem bark. The plant contains potent chemical compounds, most notably quinine and cinchonine, which serve as the foundation for various therapeutic applications. When prepared as an aqueous-methanolic extract, these components demonstrate powerful antibacterial and antiviral activities. Historically, these extracts have been essential in treating malaria and managing inflammation, while modern research explores their potential against cancer and infectious diseases. However, users must exercise caution, as the plant also possesses abortifacient properties and acts as an aldose-reductase inhibitor.
- Synonyms
- Cinchona Cucumifolia · Cinchona Stupea · 23 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Cinchona officinalis is a fascinating botanical species known by a diverse array of regional and traditional names. In certain linguistic contexts, it is referred to as Chinowiec lekarski or the Gelber Chinarindenbaum. Travelers and herbalists might also encounter it under the names Gele kinaboom or Kınakına depending on the locale. Additionally, the plant is frequently identified in specific trade circles as Lojabark. This variety of nomenclature reflects the wide geographic distribution and historical importance of the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cinchona officinalis is a botanical species that has been classified under several different scientific names throughout history. Due to various taxonomic interpretations, it is recognized by synonyms such as Cinchona academica and Cinchona chahuraguera. The plant is also linked to Cinchona condaminea, including the specific variety known as Cinchona condaminea var. chahuraguera. Furthermore, researchers have historically identified it under the synonym Cinchona crispa. Understanding these various nomenclature relationships is essential for accurate identification in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cinchona officinalis is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that belongs to the class Equisetopsida. This botanical species is classified under the order Gentianales, showcasing its unique evolutionary placement. Within this order, it is further categorized into the family Rubiaceae, which links it to many other significant shrubs and trees. The plant is more specifically identified by its genus, Cinchona, which defines its distinct characteristics. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the biological identity of this important plant.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Cinchona |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cinchona officinalis exhibits a diverse geographical distribution that spans multiple continents and island chains. In the African region, the species can be found across the Middle Atlantic Ocean and specifically within West Tropical Africa near Guinea. Its presence extends into the Caribbean, where it thrives in territories such as Jamaica and Puerto Rico. Moving across the ocean, the plant is also established in Western South America, particularly throughout Colombia. This wide-ranging habitat demonstrates the plant's ability to adapt to various tropical environments across the globe.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cinchona officinalis grows in a sturdy tree form that is entirely self-supporting. This botanical species typically reaches a maximum height of 8 meters as it matures. Its structural integrity allows it to thrive as a stable element within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cinchona officinalis is a notable tropical plant recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in treating various infectious diseases. Scientific reviews highlight that this species possesses a versatile range of biological activities, including antibacterial and antifungal properties. Furthermore, the plant has demonstrated effectiveness through its antimicrobial and antiparasitic actions. Research also suggests that it carries antiviral capabilities, making it a valuable subject in ethnobotanical studies. These diverse medicinal qualities underscore the importance of studying its chemical constituents and traditional uses.
Compounds
Cinchona officinalis is recognized as an eminent medicinal plant that serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds. Research into its secondary metabolites has highlighted its chemical richness, specifically noting that the plant contains quinine. Additionally, the species is known to contain cinchonine, another important constituent used in scientific evaluations. These specific compounds were studied through in silico molecular docking to assess their potential against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. By exploring these relationships, scientists aim to identify natural inhibitors that could assist in the fight against global pandemics.
Conditions
Cinchona officinalis demonstrates significant medicinal utility by treating Candida albicans 10231 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 through its antimicrobial properties. The plant's bark is a historical and modern source for treating malaria, particularly through its alkaloid content. Research into homeopathic combinations has specifically shown that Cinchona officinalis can effectively treat the lethal rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei. Furthermore, in silico studies indicate that metabolites from the plant can target and treat SARS-CoV-2 Mpro.
Preparations
Cinchona officinalis is prepared as an aqueous-methanolic extract using a 1:1 v/v ratio for the evaluation of anticholinesterase activity. The plant is also prepared as barks to investigate its antimicrobial and antibiotic-resistance reversal potential against uropathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, Cinchona officinalis is prepared as stem bark for the estimation of specific alkaloids through HPTLC methods. These various preparation methods allow for the study of its medicinal properties, ranging from neuroprotective qualities to antimicrobial efficacy. Such diverse preparation techniques facilitate the analysis of its chemical constituents, including quinine, cinchonine, cinchonidine, and quinidine.
Parts used
Cinchona officinalis is a significant botanical source known primarily for the valuable alkaloids found within its stem bark. Researchers utilize High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) to effectively estimate the concentration of key compounds like quinine, cinchonine, cinchonidine, and quinidine. By analyzing the stem, scientists can precisely detect and quantify these medicinal constituents through specialized fluorescence enhancement techniques. This analytical approach ensures that both the raw plant material and various commercial formulations meet strict standards for alkaloid content. Ultimately, understanding the relationship between the plant's stem and its chemical profile is essential for maintaining the quality of herbal and homeopathic products.