Cryptocarya aschersoniana
Cryptocarya aschersoniana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cryptocarya aschersoniana is a distinctive botanical species that has recently garnered significant interest within the field of pharmacological research. Scientists have focused their investigations on the chemical properties found within the plant's leaf essential oil. Preliminary studies have revealed that these natural extracts possess notable bioactive potential. Specifically, the primary biological activities being explored involve significant cytotoxic effects against various cell lines. Understanding these mechanisms may eventually pave the way for developing new therapeutic agents derived from this plant.
- Synonyms
- Cryptocarya Minutiflora · Cryptocarya Subcorymbosa
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Cryptocarya aschersoniana is a botanical species known by several distinct regional names. Depending on the local area, it is frequently referred to as Canela-amarela or Canela-areia. Other common monikers include the names Canela-batalha and Canela-branca. Additionally, it is sometimes identified by the term Canela-de-fogo. These various designations highlight the plant's diverse presence within its natural environment.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cryptocarya aschersoniana is a botanical species that has been subject to various taxonomic revisions over time. Within scientific literature, it is recognized as having multiple synonymous identities. Specifically, the plant is documented under the name Cryptocarya minutiflora in certain classifications. Furthermore, it has also been referred to as Cryptocarya subcorymbosa by other researchers. Understanding these various names is essential for maintaining accuracy in botanical studies and plant identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cryptocarya aschersoniana belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of living organisms. This specific species is a member of the genus Cryptocarya, showcasing its unique botanical characteristics. Within its lineage, it is classified under the order Laurales and the family Lauraceae. Furthermore, the plant is categorized under the class Equisetopsida, defining its fundamental biological structure. These taxonomic relationships highlight the precise place this plant holds within the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Cryptocarya |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Cryptocarya aschersoniana is a species widely distributed across various regions of Southern America. In Brazil, it can be found throughout the Southeast, West-Central, and southern territories. Its presence also extends into the northeastern parts of Argentina within Southern South America. Furthermore, the plant is established in the neighboring country of Uruguay. This broad geographic range highlights the adaptability of the species across diverse South American landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Cryptocarya aschersoniana is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a tree. It is characterized by a sturdy growth habit that allows it to stand independently within its ecosystem. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the species can reach a maximum height of 20 meters. In some instances, the tree may grow even larger, achieving a peak height of up to 30 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Cryptocarya aschersoniana has been identified as a source of bioactive compounds through the study of its leaf essential oil. Research indicates that this plant exhibits significant leishmanicidal properties, specifically targeting the promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis. However, the essential oil also demonstrates a relatively high level of cytotoxic activity against mouse peritoneal macrophages. These findings are crucial for understanding the potential pharmacological limitations of using the oil as a primary treatment. Ultimately, this study provides the first comprehensive report on the chemical composition and the dual biological activities of this species.
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Cryptocarya aschersoniana is prepared as a leaf essential oil through the process of hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus. This specific essential oil is primarily composed of monoterpene hydrocarbons, with limonene serving as the main constituent. Researchers utilized GC-MS and GC-FID techniques to thoroughly analyze the chemical makeup of this botanical extract. The resulting oil was evaluated for its biological potential, specifically demonstrating significant activity against Leishmania amazonensis promastigote forms. This study marks the inaugural report concerning the chemical profile and medicinal activities of the essential oil derived from the leaves of this species.