Commiphora schimperi
Commiphora schimperi · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Commiphora schimperi is a significant medicinal plant known for its diverse pharmacological properties. Scientific investigations have highlighted its potent antiplasmodial activities, making it a subject of great interest in pharmacology. This plant holds particular promise in the global fight against malaria, a devastating disease affecting millions worldwide. By targeting the parasites responsible for the infection, its extracts offer a potential natural pathway for treatment. Consequently, studying this species is essential for developing new therapeutic strategies against parasitic ailments.
- Synonyms
- Commiphora Buraensis · Balsamea Schimperi · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Burseraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Commiphora schimperi is a unique botanical species recognized by a diverse array of descriptive titles. It is frequently referred to by several variations of its common name, including Glossy Corkwood and Glossy-leaved Corkwood. Depending on the region or botanical context, it may also be called Glossy-Leaved Commiphora or Glossyleaf Corkwood. In certain local settings, this plant is known by the specific name Mokoulo. These various names collectively highlight the plant's distinctive foliage and its enduring presence in its natural habitat.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Commiphora schimperi is a plant species that is known by several different botanical names throughout scientific literature. It is recognized by the synonyms Balsamea schimperi and Balsamodendrum schimperi. Furthermore, the species has been previously categorized under the name Commiphora arussensis. Taxonomic records also link it to the synonyms Commiphora betschuanica and Commiphora buraensis. Understanding these various designations is essential for accurate identification and study within the plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Commiphora schimperi is a fascinating 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. It further falls into the order Sapindales, a group that links it to many other significant woody species. As a member of the genus Commiphora, it shares unique structural characteristics with its close relatives. Finally, this plant is nested within the family Burseraceae, a group well known for its aromatic resins and distinctive biological traits.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Commiphora |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Commiphora schimperi is a notable botanical species primarily distributed across the diverse landscapes of East and Northeast Tropical Africa. Its natural range extends through the lush and varied environments of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Additionally, the plant can be found inhabiting the specific terrains of Eritrea and Ethiopia. This broad geographical spread highlights the species' ability to adapt to the unique ecological niches found within these African regions. Consequently, understanding its presence across these multiple countries is essential for studying its regional biodiversity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Commiphora schimperi is a versatile plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This self-supporting species is capable of reaching a maximum height of approximately 6 meters. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the plant typically maintains a minimum height of at least 1 meter. In many established instances, the stature often settles at a minimum of 3.5 meters. Such structural diversity allows this shrub to thrive within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Commiphora schimperi has emerged as a significant botanical candidate in the search for new malaria treatments. During a study conducted in Kwale County, Kenya, researchers evaluated various traditional remedies used by the Digo community to manage the disease. Among the fifty-seven species tested, this particular plant demonstrated notable antiplasmodial efficacy against both chloroquine-sensitive and resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Specifically, it was one of only twelve species to exhibit a potent inhibitory effect with an IC50 value of less than 5µg/ml. These findings suggest that such ethnopharmacological inquiries are essential for identifying new active principles for future herbal medicines.
Compounds
Conditions
Commiphora schimperi is one of the twelve specific plant species identified as having significant antiplasmodial efficacy in a study conducted in Kwale County, Kenya. This plant was evaluated for its ability to inhibit the growth of both chloroquine-sensitive and resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Among the various medicinal plants documented by traditional health practitioners, Commiphora schimperi demonstrated high potency with an IC50 value of less than 5µg/ml. Its proven antiplasmodial activity supports its traditional use as a remedy for managing malaria within the local community. These findings highlight the plant's potential as a valuable source for discovering new active principles in herbal malaria treatments.