Crateva magna
Crateva magna · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Crateva magna is a medicinal plant that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its potential therapeutic applications. Recent research has focused on its biological efficacy in managing conditions such as Acute Kidney Injury by monitoring key indicators like Blood Urea Nitrogen and Creatinine levels. The plant demonstrates notable diuretic properties, making it a subject of importance in renal pharmacology. To ensure standardized study, researchers utilize various botanical preparations, including in vitro-grown shoot tips and nodal cultures. Advanced cultivation techniques, such as the use of rescued shoot tips, allow for a consistent supply of shoot tips for rigorous experimental analysis.
- Synonyms
- Triclanthera Corymbosa · Capparis Magna · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Capparaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Crateva magna is a distinctive botanical species recognized by a wide variety of regional and descriptive names. In various cultural contexts, it is affectionately known as Maralingam or Neermathalam. It also carries the name Nirvaala, reflecting its presence in diverse linguistic traditions. Some regions refer to the plant as Varuna, adding to its rich nomenclature. Finally, it is commonly identified by its structural characteristics as the three-leaf-caper.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Crateva magna is a botanical species known by several different scientific names across various taxonomic classifications. It is frequently identified by the synonyms Capparis magna and Crateva lophosperma in certain literature. The plant is also closely associated with the names Crateva nurvala and Crateva religiosa var. nurvula. Furthermore, some historical or regional records may refer to this species as Triclanthera corymbosa. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification and scientific study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Crateva magna is a remarkable species that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Brassicales, showcasing its evolutionary connections to other specialized groups. As a member of the family Capparaceae, it shares unique characteristics with its botanical relatives. Finally, this species is defined by its specific placement within the genus Crateva.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Capparaceae |
| Genus | Crateva |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Crateva magna is widely distributed throughout various temperate regions of Asia. Within China, this plant can be found across several distinct areas, including the South-Central and Southeast provinces. Its presence is also noted in the tropical island of Hainan and the high-altitude regions of Tibet. Moving further east, the species extends its reach into the diverse landscapes of Japan. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to different Asian environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Crateva magna is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 10 meters in many environments. However, under ideal conditions, it can grow even larger, reaching a height of up to 15 meters. This versatile growth habit allows it to establish a significant presence in its native habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Crateva magna, specifically through its leaf and bark extracts, effectively treats acute kidney injury by ameliorating the deleterious effects of renal ischaemia/reperfusion. The plant works to reduce levels of LDH and blood urea nitrogen, which serve as important biomarkers of renal function. Additionally, it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent by decreasing pro-inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and NF-κβ. These combined actions help to counteract oxidative stress and mitigate cellular damage. Consequently, the extracts demonstrate a strong capacity to manage both biochemical indicators and inflammatory pathways associated with renal injury.
Preparations
Crateva magna is prepared as in vitro-grown shoot tips to facilitate successful cryopreservation through optimized PVS2-vitrification protocols. These specimens are also prepared as shoot tips for initial incubation and survival studies. Following the cryopreservation process, the plant material is prepared as rescued shoot tips to ensure continued development. To facilitate further multiplication, the plant is prepared as nodal cultures for bulking up the specimens. These specific preparation methods allow for effective rhizogenic responses and long-term preservation of the species.