Cola acuminata
Cola acuminata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cola acuminata is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse range of pharmacological activities. Research indicates that the plant possesses significant anticancer, (+)-inotropic, 11B-HSD-inhibitor, and 5-lipoxygenase-inhibitor properties. Its chemical profile is characterized by the presence of various amines, including ethylamine, isobutylamine, isopentylamine, and methylamine. These bioactive components contribute to the plant's potential therapeutic applications in managing specific health conditions. Notably, studies have explored its medicinal relevance in addressing issues such as erectile dysfunction.
- Synonyms
- Cola Grandiflora · Cola Pseudoacuminata · 21 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Cola acuminata is a versatile plant recognized by several different names across various cultures and languages. It is widely known by its common name, Bese, which reflects its regional significance. In German-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as the Cola-Pflanze or the Kleiner Kolabaum. Many people simply call it the Kolabaum or refer to its fruit as the Kolanuß. Regardless of the terminology used, this species remains a highly distinctive member of its genus.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cola acuminata is a botanical species known to be associated with several different taxonomic designations. It is frequently identified by its synonyms, including Bichea acuminata and Bichea solitaria. Additionally, the plant has been historically classified under the names Bichea sulcata and Braxipis grandiflora. The scientific literature also recognizes Clompanus longifolia as another valid synonym for this species. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cola acuminata is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically categorized under the class Equisetopsida. This species belongs to the genus Cola, a group known for its distinct botanical characteristics. Further classification places it within the order Malvales. Finally, it is a proud representative of the family Malvaceae, completing its unique taxonomic profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Cola |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cola acuminata is a plant species with an extensive natural distribution across the African continent. Its presence is notably widespread throughout West Tropical Africa, spanning countries such as Benin, Ivory Coast, Liberia, and Nigeria. Beyond the western regions, the species also thrives within South Tropical Africa, specifically including areas like Angola. This diverse range highlights the plant's adaptability to various tropical environments across the continent. Consequently, understanding these specific geographical connections is essential for studying its ecological footprint.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cola acuminata is a self-supporting plant that grows in a distinctive tree form. This species can reach a maximum height of approximately 17.5 meters in its natural habitat. Depending on environmental conditions, some specimens may even reach an impressive stature of up to 18.28822238 meters. Such significant vertical growth allows it to establish a commanding presence within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cola acuminata serves as a significant host for endophytic fungi that possess notable pharmacological potential. Recent studies have focused on the secondary metabolites produced by the fungus Lasiodiplodia theobromae, which was specifically isolated from this plant. Research indicates that these extracts exhibit promising antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Furthermore, the fungal extracts derived from the plant have demonstrated anticancer properties through their interaction with Jurkat leukemia cell lines. These findings suggest that the biological relationships within Cola acuminata could lead to the development of novel drugs for treating malaria and cancer.
Compounds
Cola acuminata is a variety of kola nut that has been analyzed for its specific chemical composition of amines. Research indicates that this plant contains methylamine, ethylamine, and isopentylamine across its various varieties. Furthermore, the presence of other compounds such as isobutylamine and piperidine has been detected within the species. These findings are significant because the concentration of these aliphatic amines contributes to the plant's overall methylating potential. Ultimately, the presence of these specific substances suggests that the consumption of Cola acuminata warrants further investigation regarding its biological effects.
Conditions
Cola acuminata possesses diverse pharmacological properties, including the ability to treat the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strain DD2 through its endophytic fungi. In western Uganda, this plant is highly utilized as a traditional herbal remedy to treat erectile dysfunction and sexual impotence. Furthermore, research suggests that the consumption of kola nuts may play a role in human cancer aetiology due to the formation of nitrosamides. These varied medicinal and pathological relationships highlight the complex impact of the plant on human health.