Englerina lecardii
Englerina lecardii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Englerina lecardii is a botanical species that has garnered significant interest due to its potential therapeutic properties. Recent scientific investigations have focused on the plant's efficacy in addressing the challenges posed by Schistosomiasis. To evaluate these biological activities, researchers have utilized methanol extracts derived from various parts of the plant. These concentrated extracts serve as the primary medium for testing bioactive compounds against the relevant parasites. Understanding the chemical profile of Englerina lecardii may offer new pathways for developing effective treatments for this parasitic disease.
- Synonyms
- Loranthus Lecardii · Tapinanthus Lecardii · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Loranthaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Englerina lecardii is a botanical species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout its taxonomic history. Researchers have frequently referred to this plant using the synonym Ischnanthus lecardii in various academic studies. It has also been identified in older botanical records as Loranthus lecardii. Furthermore, the name Tapinanthus lecardii serves as another recognized synonym for this particular organism. Understanding these various nomenclatural connections is essential for accurate plant identification and classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Englerina lecardii is a distinct biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. This plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida and follows the specific order Santalales. Within this botanical hierarchy, it is situated in the family Loranthaceae. It further belongs to the genus Englerina, which defines its closer evolutionary relatives. Through these classifications, scientists can better understand the unique place this species holds in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Loranthaceae |
| Genus | Englerina |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Englerina lecardii is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the West Tropical Africa region. Its natural range spans several distinct countries, including Burkina Faso and the Gambia. Within this geographical belt, the species is also commonly found throughout Ghana and Guinea. Additionally, its presence extends into the coastal landscapes of Guinea-Bissau. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's importance within the diverse ecosystems of West Africa.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Englerina lecardii is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct shrub growth form. This structure allows the species to maintain a sturdy and independent presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Englerina lecardii, also referred to as Loranthus lecardii in the study, demonstrates potential in the treatment of schistosomiasis through its cercaricidal activity. Research conducted in the Atwima-Nwabiagya District of Ghana evaluated the effectiveness of various medicinal plants against Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. The methanol extracts of this specific plant were tested in vitro to determine their ability to kill the parasites. Results indicated that the plant exhibits time- and concentration-dependent cercaricidal activity, with an LC50 value of 223.87 μg/mL. These findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of the species in managing this endemic disease.
Preparations
Englerina lecardii is prepared as methanol extracts to evaluate its biological potential. This specific preparation method was utilized during the screening of medicinal plants for cercaricidal activity. The study examined how these extracts interact with human Schistosoma mansoni cercariae in an in vitro setting. By using methanol, researchers were able to test the plant's potency against the parasite. Consequently, this extraction process helped determine the specific concentration required for lethal effects.