Cordia subcordata
Cordia subcordata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cordia subcordata is a versatile medicinal plant recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional healing practices. Various plant extracts derived from this species have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating various skin ailments. It is particularly valued for its ability to soothe and accelerate the healing process of burns. Furthermore, its bioactive compounds offer effective relief for dermatoses and other inflammatory skin conditions. This plant also serves as a potent natural remedy for managing the repair of open wounds.
- Synonyms
- Lithocardium Octandrum · Novella Nigra · 13 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Cordia subcordata is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional names. In certain locales, it is affectionately referred to as Baderirt or simply Balu. The species also carries the descriptive title of Burao blong solwota, reflecting its specific environmental connections. Furthermore, it is known in other areas as Gerong gang, showcasing the linguistic variety surrounding its identity. Finally, the plant is frequently identified by the name Jati Emas, completing its wide spectrum of common designations.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cordia subcordata is a complex species that has been identified by various botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature often lists several synonyms for this plant, including Cordia banalo and Cordia campanulata. Researchers also frequently encounter it under the names Cordia hexandra and Cordia ignota. Additionally, the name Cordia moluccana has been utilized to describe the same biological entity in different contexts. Recognizing these overlapping classifications is essential for maintaining accuracy in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cordia subcordata is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae. This species belongs to the genus Cordia, which distinguishes it within its broader botanical group. It is further classified under the order Boraginales to reflect its specific evolutionary lineage. Within this order, it sits firmly in the family Boraginaceae. Finally, its biological classification is completed by its placement in the class Equisetopsida.
| 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 subcordata is a resilient species with a broad geographic presence across the African continent. Its distribution spans much of East Tropical Africa, including notable populations within Kenya and Tanzania. The plant also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, finding a foothold in the landscape of Somalia. Furthermore, its range reaches into South Tropical Africa, specifically throughout the regions of Mozambique. Beyond the mainland, this species has successfully established itself within the Western Indian Ocean on the Aldabra archipelago.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cordia subcordata is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. Depending on its environment, this species can reach a minimum height of 2 meters. For more established specimens, the growth often begins at a minimum of approximately 6.87 meters. As the tree matures, it can eventually reach a maximum height of 15 meters. This range of sizes allows the plant to adapt effectively to its natural landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Cordia subcordata is recognized within the Polynesian Pharmacopoeia for its traditional medicinal applications in skin care. This plant is specifically utilized to treat various skin conditions, including burns and dermatoses. Furthermore, it serves as a traditional remedy for managing pimples. The plant is also effectively used in the treatment of wounds. These diverse therapeutic relationships highlight its importance in managing skin health.
Preparations
Cordia subcordata is prepared as plant extracts to investigate its antioxidant properties within the context of the Polynesian Pharmacopoeia. These specific extracts were subjected to various in vitro bioassays to evaluate their potential for skin care applications. Through a metabolomic analytical approach using HPLC-MS/MS, researchers were able to characterize the bioactive constituents present in these preparations. The study successfully identified several compounds within the Cordia subcordata extracts for the first time. Such analytical methods confirm that the plant's extracts contain metabolites capable of contributing to antioxidant activity.