Dalbergia louvelii
Dalbergia louvelii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dalbergia louvelii is a botanical species known for containing a diverse array of bioactive chemical compounds. The heartwood preparation of this plant serves as a rich source of important substances such as flavonoids and isoliquiritigenin. Specifically, it harbors specialized molecules including 7,4'-dihydroxy-3'-methoxyisoflavone and obtusafuran. Scientific interest in these components often stems from their potential biological activity against pathogens like Plasmodium falciparum. Consequently, this species remains a subject of study regarding its medicinal and chemical properties.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dalbergia louvelii is a remarkable species known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. Within various local contexts, it is frequently referred to as Andramena or Vilimpony. Many enthusiasts also recognize the plant through its more poetic common name, Bois de rose. Furthermore, it carries the distinct local identifiers of Hitsiky and Hitsoka. These various names reflect the deep cultural and linguistic connections surrounding this important timber tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Dalbergia louvelii is a fascinating specimen belonging to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the family Fabaceae, it shares characteristics with many significant legume species. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its distinct placement within the genus Dalbergia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Dalbergia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dalbergia louvelii is a distinctive species with a highly specific geographic footprint. Its primary distribution is centered within the vast landscapes of Africa. Beyond the mainland, the plant also thrives throughout the Western Indian Ocean region. Madagascar serves as another critical habitat where this species can be found growing naturally. These interconnected locations define the natural range and ecological presence of the plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dalbergia louvelii is a self-supporting tree characterized by its sturdy growth form. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 15 meters as it matures. Its structure allows it to stand firmly within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Dalbergia louvelii serves as a rich source of diverse chemical compounds found within its heartwood. Detailed phytochemical investigations have successfully isolated several specific constituents, including the flavonoid isoliquiritigenin. Furthermore, researchers identified the presence of obtusafuran among the known compounds extracted from the plant. The study also confirmed that Dalbergia louvelii contains spirolouveline, which was determined through advanced spectroscopic techniques. These findings highlight the complex chemical profile of the species and its potential biological significance.
Conditions
Dalbergia louvelii contains specific compounds that exhibit significant antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Researchers isolated seventeen different substances from the plant's heartwood to test their ability to inhibit the growth of this parasite. Among these, four known compounds demonstrated effective inhibitory effects with IC50 values ranging from 5.8 to 8.7 microM. These active agents include (R)-4''-methoxydalbergione, obtusafuran, 7,4'-dihydroxy-3'-methoxyisoflavone, and isoliquiritigenin. This chemical profile confirms that the plant possesses natural properties capable of treating Plasmodium falciparum.
Preparations
Dalbergia louvelii is prepared as heartwood to facilitate the isolation of various bioactive chemical compounds. Researchers utilized this specific part of the plant to extract seventeen different substances, including four newly discovered flavonoids. These isolated flavonoids were specifically investigated for their potential to inhibit the growth of Plasmodium falciparum. The study identified several known compounds within the heartwood that exhibit significant antiplasmodial activity. Consequently, the heartwood serves as a critical source for discovering medicinal properties within the species.