Detarium senegalense

Detarium senegalense · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Detarium senegalense is a versatile tropical plant that has long been utilized in traditional medicine for various therapeutic purposes. Recent scientific inquiries have focused on its potential to combat infectious diseases, particularly those caused by enteric pathogens. Among these concerns, the management of Salmonellosis remains a critical priority due to the widespread impact of the bacteria. Current research explores the antimicrobial efficacy of ethanolic plant extracts derived from this species against such pathogens. Understanding these bioactive properties may provide a natural foundation for developing new treatments to mitigate the effects of infection.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Detarium Heudelotianum
Common names
Not available
Family
Fabaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Detarium senegalense is a versatile botanical species known by a diverse array of regional and international names. In various local contexts, it is frequently referred to as Konkeewi or Ntamakunba. Travelers and botanists may also encounter it under the common English moniker of the dattock tree. Within certain linguistic circles, the plant is identified as detar senegalský. Additionally, it is widely recognized by its descriptive name, the tallow tree.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Detarium senegalense is a significant botanical species often encountered in various tropical ecosystems. Within taxonomic literature, this plant is frequently identified by its synonym, Detarium heudelotianum. This nomenclatural overlap can sometimes cause confusion for researchers studying its specific characteristics. However, recognizing these synonymous names is essential for maintaining accurate botanical records and databases. Understanding these relationships ensures that scientific communication remains consistent across different studies.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Detarium senegalense is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This species belongs to the order Fabales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It is further categorized into the family Fabaceae, which connects it to a diverse group of flowering plants. Finally, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement within the genus Detarium.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Fabales
Family Fabaceae
Genus Detarium

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Detarium senegalense is a plant species widely distributed across various regions of the African continent. In Northeast Tropical Africa, its presence is noted in countries such as Chad and the corridor spanning Sudan and South Sudan. The species also maintains a significant footprint throughout West Tropical Africa. Specifically, it can be found growing in the diverse landscapes of Benin, Burkina Faso, and the Gambia. This broad range highlights the adaptability of the plant across different tropical environments.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Detarium senegalense is a distinguished tree species known for its robust and self-supporting growth form. This plant can reach impressive heights, with some specimens stretching up to 36.58 meters. While it can be found at a minimum height of approximately 9.14 meters, many individuals grow significantly taller. The varying dimensions of these trees demonstrate the species' adaptability across different environments. Ultimately, its towering stature makes it a prominent feature within its natural habitat.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Detarium senegalense demonstrates significant antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against Salmonella clinical isolates. In studies using a Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium-infected rat model, this plant species proved to be highly effective. Specifically, extracts of the plant were able to stop salmonellosis after only ten days of treatment. The research found that an effective dose of less than 100 mg/kg was sufficient to treat the infection in the animal model. Furthermore, the application of Detarium senegalense to treat salmonellosis did not produce any toxic effects in the subjects.

Preparations

Detarium senegalense is prepared as ethanolic plant extracts to investigate its potential against non-typhoidal invasive Salmonella diseases. These specific extracts were screened for both antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against clinical resistant isolates and reference strains. During testing, the ethanolic extracts of this plant demonstrated biofilm inhibition greater than 50% against Salmonella clinical isolates. In vivo studies using a rat model further confirmed that these extracts can stop salmonellosis within ten days of treatment. The research highlights that the ethanolic preparation of Detarium senegalense is effective at doses of less than 100 mg/kg without producing toxic effects.

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