Clavija procera

Clavija procera · Accepted scientific name

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

Clavija procera is a significant medicinal plant known for its diverse pharmacological potential. Researchers have focused on this species to investigate the specific bioactive compounds it produces. One notable chemical component identified within the plant is Aegicerin, which contributes to its therapeutic profile. To study these properties effectively, scientists often utilize an ethanol extract for concentrated analysis. This botanical study highlights the importance of exploring the plant's chemical makeup for future medical applications.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Not available
Common names
Not available
Family
Primulaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Clavija procera is a botanical species known by several distinct local names depending on the region. Among its most frequent identifiers is the common name Matiri Muyu. It is also widely recognized in different contexts as Supay Kaspi. These diverse naming conventions highlight the plant's significant presence within various cultural landscapes. Understanding these relationships provides valuable insight into how the species is categorized by local communities.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Taxonomy

Clavija procera is a distinctive botanical species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant follows a specific taxonomic lineage, falling under the order Ericales. It is further categorized into the family Primulaceae, which defines many of its biological characteristics. Ultimately, this species is identified by its membership in the genus Clavija.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Ericales
Family Primulaceae
Genus Clavija

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Clavija procera is a distinctive plant species primarily found within the diverse ecosystems of Southern America. Its geographic range is notably concentrated across the regions of Western South America. Within this territory, Ecuador serves as a key area where the plant can be observed growing in its natural habitat. Understanding its specific distribution helps researchers better appreciate the botanical richness of this part of the world. Consequently, this species remains a significant component of the local flora in these tropical landscapes.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Clavija procera is a self-supporting species that adopts a distinct tree-like growth form. This botanical specimen typically reaches a maximum height of 7 meters as it matures. Its structural stability allows it to stand firmly within its natural environment.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Clavija procera is a rare plant belonging to the Theophrastaceae family that has yielded a significant medicinal discovery. Through a colorimetric bioassay-guided fractionation of its ethanol extract, researchers successfully isolated a specific compound known as aegicerin. This substance represents the first oleanane triterpene found to possess wide-ranging antimycobacterial activity. Testing has demonstrated that aegicerin is highly effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, maintaining potent MIC values across various strains. Ultimately, the presence of this active constituent highlights the therapeutic potential held within this unique botanical species.

Conditions

Clavija procera contains a potent antimycobacterial compound known as aegicerin, which was isolated from its ethanol extract. This specific oleanane triterpene demonstrates significant activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) through bioassay-guided fractionation. The plant's active constituent shows impressive efficacy, maintaining MIC values between 1.6 and 3.12 $\mu$g/mL. These results remain consistent across a wide variety of 37 different strains, including susceptible, INH-resistant, and multidrug-resistant (MDR) clinical isolates. Consequently, Clavija procera serves as a critical source for treating various forms of MTB infections.

Preparations

Clavija procera is prepared as an ethanol extract to facilitate the isolation of bioactive compounds. This specific preparation was subjected to fractionation using a colorimetric bioassay-guided protocol. Through this process, researchers identified the oleanane triterpenoid aegicerin as the primary active constituent. The resulting extract demonstrated significant potency against various strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Such methodological preparation allows for the targeted discovery of potent antimycobacterial agents within the plant.

Parts used