Dimocarpus longan
Dimocarpus longan · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dimocarpus longan is a versatile plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse biological activities. Research indicates that its aqueous extract and specific preparations like HX106N exhibit potent antibacterial and antioxidant properties. A key chemical component responsible for these benefits is corilagin, which plays a vital role in managing oxidative stress. Furthermore, studies suggest that the plant can influence osteogenesis, potentially supporting bone health through its chemical constituents. When combined with other substances like honey, the therapeutic potential of this plant continues to be a major area of investigation.
- Synonyms
- Scytalia Longan · Nephelium Longan · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dimocarpus longan is a versatile fruit known by several different names across various regions and languages. While many people are familiar with it as the common Longan, it is also frequently referred to as the Longan-Baum. In certain contexts, you may encounter variations such as the name Longanbaum or even the term Longane. Some linguistic translations further diversify its identity, leading to names like the Longanbeere in specific European contexts. Regardless of whether it is called Lengkeng or one of its many other aliases, this plant remains a beloved staple in global agriculture.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dimocarpus longan is a fascinating botanical subject that is frequently identified by various taxonomic names. In many scientific circles, it is recognized by the synonym Euphoria longan. Similarly, the plant has been referred to as Nephelium longan in different historical contexts. Other researchers may also encounter it listed under the name Scytalia longan. Understanding these diverse synonyms is essential for accurate identification and study within the plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dimocarpus longan is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that belongs to the class Equisetopsida. Within this biological framework, it is classified under the order Sapindales. Its taxonomic journey continues as it is nested within the family Sapindaceae. Finally, this fruit-bearing species is identified by its specific genus, Dimocarpus.
| 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 exhibits a broad geographic range that spans across several diverse regions of the world. In Asia, the species is widely distributed throughout temperate zones, including specific areas in South-Central and Southeast China. Its presence is also well-documented in the island of Hainan and throughout Taiwan. Beyond the Asian continent, the plant extends its reach into Africa and the Western Indian Ocean, including the island of Réunion. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in varied tropical and subtropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dimocarpus longan is a self-supporting tree characterized by its robust and sturdy growth form. This species can reach an impressive maximum height of up to 18.5 meters under ideal conditions. However, in certain environments, it has been known to grow even larger, reaching a peak height of 20 meters. Such significant stature makes it a prominent feature in any landscape where it is cultivated.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Dimocarpus longan serves as a significant floral source for the production of honey in Taiwan. Research indicates that honey derived from this fruit tree possesses notable biological properties. Specifically, the honey produced from these blossoms exhibits measurable antibacterial activity. Furthermore, it also demonstrates effective antioxidant capabilities within various experimental assays. These characteristics highlight the medicinal potential inherent in the nectar of the Dimocarpus longan plant.
Compounds
Dimocarpus longan, a subtropical fruit widely cultivated across China and Southeast Asia, serves as a natural source of the hydrolyzable ellagitannin known as corilagin. This polyphenolic compound is recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties, including significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Recent research has specifically highlighted its ability to influence bone and cartilage regeneration by modulating cellular signaling pathways. Studies demonstrate that corilagin effectively enhances the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in a dose-dependent manner. Consequently, this relationship positions the fruit's chemical constituents as promising candidates for future applications in biomedical tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Conditions
Dimocarpus longan contains corilagin, a compound that effectively treats Aβ25-35-induced memory impairment by reducing oxidative stress. This plant also possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties through the modulation of various cellular signaling pathways. Its bioactive components provide significant antioxidant benefits, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. Furthermore, the presence of corilagin in the plant allows it to treat cancer via robust anticancer activities. Specifically, these components exhibit potent antitumor potential, including the ability to enhance the efficacy of existing treatments.
Preparations
Dimocarpus longan serves as a key component in several medicinal and nutritional preparations. This plant is prepared as HX106N, a water-soluble botanical formulation used to study its effects on memory impairment and oxidative stress. It is also utilized as an aqueous extract within the herbal mixture known as "Slimax" to assist in the treatment of human obesity. Furthermore, Dimocarpus longan acts as a floral source for the production of specific honeys. These various preparations highlight the versatile roles this plant plays in both therapeutic and dietary contexts.