Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan, commonly known as longan, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree widely recognized in traditional medicine. Recent scientific investigations have focused on its potential therapeutic applications, particularly regarding the management of memory deficits. Researchers have explored the efficacy of this plant through the administration of specialized herbal mixtures designed to enhance cognitive function. Furthermore, studies have utilized methanol extracts to isolate bioactive compounds responsible for these neuroprotective effects. Understanding these chemical properties offers promising insights into how this species might combat age-related cognitive decline.
- Synonyms
- Nephelium Benghalense · Nephelium Longana · 16 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan is a tropical fruit-bearing tree that is widely recognized throughout the world. While its scientific name may seem complex, it is most commonly known by the simple name longan. This plant belongs to the Sapindaceae family and produces sweet, translucent fruit encased in a thin, brown shell. Cultivated extensively in Southeast Asia, the longan serves as both a delicious snack and a versatile ingredient in various culinary traditions. Understanding its botanical identity helps enthusiasts appreciate the unique characteristics of this popular subtropical species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Throughout various scientific studies, this subspecies has been identified under several different names, including Dimocarpus undulatus and Dimocarpus leichhardtii. It is also closely linked to the names Arytera leichhardtii and Euphoria leichhardtii within botanical literature. Furthermore, the classification has occasionally been referred to as Euphoria echinulata in different contexts. Navigating these shifting nomenclature relationships is essential for researchers studying the plant's true identity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, showcasing its fundamental role within the natural world. As a member of the class Equisetopsida, this plant follows a specific evolutionary lineage shared by many diverse species. It is further classified under the order Sapindales, which helps scientists understand its biological connections. Within this order, it finds its place in the family Sapindaceae, a group known for its unique botanical characteristics. Finally, its specific identity is defined by its membership in the genus Dimocarpus, distinguishing it from other related plants.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Dimocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan exhibits a broad geographical presence that spans several diverse regions across the globe. In Asia, the plant is widely distributed throughout temperate zones, including Taiwan and various parts of mainland China. Specifically, its cultivation is well-established in China South-Central, China Southeast, and the island of Hainan. Beyond the Asian continent, this subspecies also finds a home in Africa and the Western Indian Ocean. Notably, its reach extends even further to the unique environment of Réunion.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Compounds
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan contains adenosine, which serves as a key bioactive component within its arillus. Research indicates that this specific compound acts as the primary principle responsible for the plant's anxiolytic-like effects. Through bioassay-oriented isolation, scientists determined that adenosine significantly reduces anti-conflict behavior in animal models. Beyond its calming properties, the substance also contributes to the analgesic effects observed in the extract. This distinction is crucial, as other isolated compounds like adenine and uridine failed to produce similar therapeutic results.
Conditions
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan exhibits various medicinal properties, including an analgesic effect and an anti-conflict effect driven by adenosine. Research indicates that this plant can produce antidepressant effects by reducing immobility in stress-induced models. It has also been identified as a substance capable to induce osteoclast differentiation during bone remodeling processes. Furthermore, administration of this plant helps to reverse memory deficits by increasing protein expression in the brain.
Preparations
Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan is prepared as an herbal mixture containing Euphoria longana, Houttuynia cordata, and Dioscorea japonica to demonstrate antidepressant and neuroprotective effects in mice. This specific herbal mixture has been shown to increase the expression of BDNF, pCREB, and pAkt while improving spatial working memory. Additionally, Dimocarpus longan subsp. longan is prepared as methanol extracts that were screened for their ability to influence bone remodeling. Among various medicinal plants tested, these methanol extracts exhibited the ability to induce osteoclast differentiation in mouse bone marrow macrophages. These distinct preparation methods highlight the plant's diverse applications in both neurological and skeletal research.