Cinnamomum javanicum
Cinnamomum javanicum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cinnamomum javanicum is a plant species that can serve as a reservoir for various environmental microorganisms. Research has specifically investigated the presence of Listeria monocytogenes within its biological structures. Both the leaf and the stem have been identified as potential sites for this pathogen to reside. Understanding how these plant parts harbor such bacteria is crucial for assessing food safety risks. This study focuses on the colonization patterns of Listeria monocytogenes across these specific botanical components.
- Synonyms
- Cinnamomum Safrol
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Cinnamomum javanicum is a distinctive botanical species that is recognized by several different common names across various regions. In Japan, this plant is frequently referred to by its local name, ジャワニッケイ. Similarly, it is known in Chinese-speaking communities as 爪哇肉桂. These diverse naming conventions highlight the global presence and cultural significance of the species. Understanding these linguistic variations is essential for anyone studying the plant's widespread distribution.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cinnamomum javanicum is a botanical species that is frequently identified in various scientific literatures through its synonymous name, Cinnamomum safrol. This nomenclature overlap can sometimes lead to confusion for researchers attempting to categorize the plant accurately. Understanding these taxonomic connections is essential for ensuring consistency in botanical studies and herbal classifications. By recognizing that both names refer to the same organism, experts can better navigate the complexities of plant identification. Ultimately, clarifying these relationships helps maintain a clear and organized record of the world's diverse flora.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cinnamomum javanicum is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the specific order Laurales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, it is a distinguished representative of the genus Cinnamomum. Ultimately, this species finds its botanical home within the family Lauraceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Cinnamomum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cinnamomum javanicum is a notable species found throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Its natural distribution is concentrated within the Malesia zone, spanning several key islands and peninsulas. Specifically, this plant can be located in the lush landscapes of Borneo and the expansive terrain of Sumatera. It is also well-established in the areas of Jawa and throughout Malaya. These diverse locations highlight the plant's significant presence across the Southeast Asian tropics.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cinnamomum javanicum is a self-supporting plant that typically adopts the growth form of a tree. This species is characterized by its impressive stature, capable of reaching significant heights in its natural habitat. While it generally reaches a maximum height of 20 meters, some specimens may grow slightly taller. Ultimately, these robust trees can attain a peak height of up to 21 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Cinnamomum javanicum has emerged as a promising source of antimicrobial agents, particularly when targeting pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes. Detailed chemical analysis through GC-MS revealed that eucalyptol is the most abundant volatile compound within the plant's crude extract. This specific component, accounting for over 25% of the extract's composition, plays a critical role in the plant's biological activity. Research indicates that both the whole extract and eucalyptol function by inducing significant damage to the cell membranes of bacteria. Consequently, these findings highlight the potential of using C. javanicum to enhance food safety in products such as smoked salmon.
Conditions
Cinnamomum javanicum leaf and stem extracts demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity against the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. During screening, these plant extracts exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.13mg/mL against the bacteria. When applied to a smoked salmon food model, the extract effectively inhibited the growth of various Listeria monocytogenes serotypes. The antimicrobial effectiveness is largely attributed to the presence of eucalyptol, which is the most abundant compound identified in the extract. This treatment works by inducing significant membrane damage within the Listeria monocytogenes cells to neutralize them.
Preparations
Parts used
Cinnamomum javanicum serves as a promising source of natural antimicrobial agents due to the bioactive properties found within its various parts. Specifically, researchers have identified that both the leaf and stem of the plant contain extracts capable of inhibiting the growth of Listeria monocytogenes. These extracts demonstrate significant antioxidant activity and a high total phenolic content, which contribute to their biological efficacy. Analysis of the crude extract revealed that eucalyptol is a major volatile component responsible for inducing membrane damage in targeted bacteria. Consequently, utilizing the leaf and stem of C. javanicum offers a potential natural solution for enhancing food safety in products like smoked salmon.