Cordia alliodora
Cordia alliodora · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cordia alliodora is a botanical species recognized for its significant medicinal potential in various traditional practices. Research has highlighted the plant's potent antifungal activities, making it a subject of interest for combating fungal infections. The therapeutic properties are primarily concentrated within the root and stem components of the plant. Scientists have utilized specific preparations, such as ethanol extracts of stem barks, methanolic extracts, and root bark, to isolate these bioactive compounds. Understanding these chemical profiles is essential for developing new treatments derived from this versatile plant.
- Synonyms
- Lithocardium Gerascanthus Var. Alliodorum · Lithocardium Alliodorum · 26 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Root · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Cordia alliodora is a versatile tree known by a variety of distinctive local names across different regions. Depending on the area, you may hear it referred to as Cap Prieto or simply as Cyp. It is also frequently called Cypre or Cypress, names that highlight its unique botanical character. In some specific locales, the plant is even known by the name Lauch-Kordie. These diverse common names reflect the widespread presence and cultural integration of this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cordia alliodora is a taxonomically complex species that is recognized by several different botanical names. Within its scientific history, the plant is closely associated with the synonyms Cerdana alliodora and Cerdana cujabensis. Researchers also categorize specific variations under the name Cordia alliodora f. albotomentosa. Furthermore, the species encompasses distinct botanical forms such as Cordia alliodora var. boliviana and Cordia alliodora var. glabra. Understanding these diverse synonyms is essential for accurate identification and botanical study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cordia alliodora is a distinctive botanical species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further falls into the order Boraginales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It is a proud member of the family Boraginaceae, which defines many of its biological characteristics. Finally, this species is classified under the genus Cordia, marking its unique place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Cordia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cordia alliodora exhibits a remarkably wide geographical range that spans multiple continents and oceanic regions. In the African region, the species is widely distributed across the Western Indian Ocean, including the islands of Mauritius and the Seychelles. Its presence extends into the tropical areas of Asia, specifically within Malesia and the island of Borneo. The plant's reach continues through Papuasia, where it can be found among the Solomon Islands. Finally, its distribution reaches into Northern America, specifically throughout central Mexico.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cordia alliodora is a self-supporting tree characterized by its sturdy and robust growth form. This species reaches impressive dimensions in the wild, typically scaling to a maximum height of 25.5 meters. In certain optimal environments, however, it can soar even higher to reach a peak of 32 meters. Such significant stature allows it to establish a commanding presence within its natural ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cordia alliodora possesses significant biological potential, particularly through the chemical compounds found within its root bark. Recent research has successfully isolated two new natural products, including a phenylpropanoid derivative and a prenylated hydroquinone. These specific compounds have demonstrated clear antifungal properties when tested against the mold Cladosporium cucumerinum. Beyond fighting fungal growth, the phenylpropanoid derivative also shows promise as a larvicidal agent against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Such findings highlight the multifaceted medicinal and defensive capabilities inherent in this plant species.
Compounds
Conditions
Cordia alliodora possesses diverse biological properties that allow it to treat various pathogens and pests. Specifically, compounds isolated from its root bark exhibit antifungal activity against the mold Cladosporium cucumerinum. The plant also demonstrates significant anti-viral activity against Herpes simplex 1. Furthermore, its extracts are effective in treating conditions likely to be associated with microorganisms. Finally, certain derivatives from the species show marked larvicidal activity against the yellow-fever-transmitting mosquito Aedes aegypti.
Preparations
Cordia alliodora is prepared as ethanol extracts of stem barks for testing antimicrobial activity against various bacteria and yeast. This species is also utilized as methanolic extracts to evaluate potential anti-viral activity against Herpes simplex 1. Furthermore, the plant is processed as root bark to isolate specific natural products. These isolated compounds from the root bark have demonstrated both antifungal properties and larvicidal activity. Through these various preparations, the plant shows diverse biological potential in medicinal research.
Parts used
Cordia alliodora serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds derived from various anatomical parts of the plant. Research has successfully isolated unique natural products from the root bark, specifically demonstrating both antifungal and larvicidal properties. Furthermore, the stem bark of this species has been identified as a valuable medicinal resource within the Peruvian Amazon. Studies evaluating ethanol extracts of the stem bark reveal that the plant possesses significant antimicrobial effects against various microorganisms. Together, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential found within the roots and stems of Cordia alliodora.