Crescentia alata
Crescentia alata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Crescentia alata is a botanical species recognized for its diverse pharmacological potential, particularly through the use of its fruit. The pulp of the fruits and various crude extracts are frequently utilized in traditional applications to address respiratory infections. Research indicates that these preparations exhibit significant biological activities, including analgesic and alpha-reductase-inhibitor properties. Furthermore, the plant shows promise as a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, though its allergenic potential must be carefully considered. Understanding these complex chemical activities is essential for exploring the therapeutic utility of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Parmentiera Alata · Crescentia Trifolia · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Crescentia alata is a versatile botanical species known by a diverse array of regional names across different cultures. In various areas, it is frequently referred to as the Ayale or the Coatecomate. It also goes by the name Coité-melão, reflecting its linguistic roots in specific locales. Some enthusiasts and botanists may identify it as the Crossleaf Catabash tree. Finally, the plant is commonly recognized as the Cuastecomate, illustrating its widespread recognition.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Crescentia alata is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of synonymous classifications. Throughout scientific literature, this species has been identified under various names, including Crescentia ternata and Crescentia trifolia. It has also been historically documented as Otophora paradoxa in different taxonomic contexts. Further research and historical records link the plant to the names Parmentiera alata and Pteromischus alatus. Understanding these diverse nomenclature relationships is essential for accurate identification in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Crescentia alata belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Lamiales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Crescentia, it displays specific morphological traits characteristic of its group. Finally, it is nested within the family Bignoniaceae, completing its formal botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Crescentia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Crescentia alata exhibits a broad geographical presence that spans across multiple continents. In Africa, the species can be found specifically within the region of Northeast Tropical Africa, including Chad. Its reach extends significantly into Northern America, where it is widely distributed throughout Mexico. Within Mexico, the plant thrives in diverse areas ranging from the Northwest to the Northeast. Furthermore, it is well-established in the central and Gulf regions of the country, showcasing its adaptability to various environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Crescentia alata is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its ecosystem. Reaching a minimum height of 10 meters, this species develops a significant vertical stature as it matures. Its robust growth form allows it to stand tall and command attention in its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Crescentia alata is a plant utilized in Mexican traditional medicine for its potential to treat respiratory infections. Research evaluating various crude extracts demonstrated that this species possesses strong antimicrobial activity against several tested pathogens. Specifically, the plant's extracts were effective against microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. By inhibiting the growth of these pathogens at low concentrations, the plant serves as a significant natural remedy for respiratory ailments. These findings validate the traditional medicinal use of Crescentia alata in managing respiratory disease.
Preparations
Crescentia alata is prepared as crude extracts to evaluate its potential antimicrobial activity against various pathogens. These specific extracts, which include hexanic, chloroformic, and methanolic forms, have demonstrated strong inhibitory effects against several microorganisms. Additionally, Crescentia alata is prepared as pulp of the fruits to facilitate the isolation of chemical compounds. New 11-nor-iridoids were successfully identified and studied through the analysis of this fruit pulp. These distinct preparation methods allow researchers to explore both the medicinal properties and the chemical constituents of the plant.
Parts used
Crescentia alata is a botanical species that holds significant interest for chemical research due to its unique secondary metabolites. Recent investigations have focused specifically on the pulp found within the fruit of this plant. Researchers successfully isolated four new 11-nor-iridoids from this particular part of the organism. These findings align with the chemical profiles observed in other previously analyzed species within the same genus. Ultimately, the structural identification of these compounds provides deeper insight into the complex chemical makeup of the Crescentia alata fruit.