Entandrophragma utile
Entandrophragma utile · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Entandrophragma utile is a botanical species that has gained scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Recent studies have focused on various plant extracts to evaluate their therapeutic properties. Research indicates that these preparations exhibit significant antioxidant, antiplasmodial, and cytotoxic activities. Specifically, the plant shows promise in addressing conditions such as Plasmodium falciparum infections and the treatment of ulcers. Consequently, these findings highlight the importance of exploring this species for developing new medicinal applications.
- Synonyms
- Pseudocedrela Utilis · Entandrophragma Thomasii · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Entandrophragma utile is a remarkable tree species known by a diverse array of regional and international names. In many parts of the world, it is most famously recognized by the common name Mahogany. Depending on the local dialect or geographical location, it may also be referred to as assié or sipo. In certain European contexts, the plant is specifically identified as mahagónovec úžitkový. Furthermore, it carries the distinct name Afrikinė tiama, showcasing the linguistic variety associated with this valuable timber tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Entandrophragma utile is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different scientific names in various texts. Due to taxonomic complexities, it is recognized by the synonym Entandrophragma macrocarpum in certain botanical contexts. The plant is also historically referred to as Entandrophragma roburoides and Entandrophragma thomasii. Furthermore, literature may list the species under the name Pseudocedrela utilis. Understanding these varying synonyms is essential for researchers studying the true identity and classification of this tree.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Entandrophragma utile is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast botanical world, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This species belongs to the diverse order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. Further narrowing its biological identity, it is situated within the family Meliaceae. Ultimately, this tree is defined by its membership in the genus Entandrophragma.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Entandrophragma |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Entandrophragma utile is a diverse species with a broad geographic footprint across the African continent. Its presence is noted in East Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Uganda. Moving toward the southern reaches, the plant also thrives in the tropical regions of Angola. The species maintains a significant presence in West Tropical Africa as well, spanning several different nations. Specifically, its distribution extends through Ghana, Guinea, and the Ivory Coast.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Entandrophragma utile is a distinguished tree species characterized by its sturdy and self-supporting growth form. This impressive botanical specimen can reach a standard maximum height of approximately 42.5 meters. However, under optimal environmental conditions, it has been known to soar even higher, reaching heights of up to 64.01 meters. Such significant stature allows it to command a prominent presence within its forest ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Entandrophragma utile has demonstrated several significant biological properties through recent scientific investigation. Research indicates that this Cameroonian medicinal plant possesses moderate antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strains. In addition to its potential for malaria treatment, the plant exhibits notable antioxidant capabilities across various testing assays. The study also evaluated its cytotoxic effects, specifically observing selectivity in Raw and Vero cells. These combined therapeutic attributes highlight the plant's potential importance in the development of new medicinal therapies.
Compounds
Conditions
Entandrophragma utile exhibits significant medicinal properties, including the ability to treat Plasmodium falciparum through its moderate antiplasmodial activity. The plant also serves as an effective agent to treat gastric acid secretion by reducing the production of aggressive gastrointestinal factors. Specifically, it treats histamine stimulated gastric acid output, demonstrating greater inhibitory effects than cimetidine in certain experimental conditions. These characteristics allow the extract to treat hypersecretory states by dramatically lowering gastric acidity levels. Consequently, the active components of the bark can be developed to provide protection of the compromised gastrointestinal mucosa.
Preparations
Entandrophragma utile is prepared as extracts to investigate its various medicinal properties. These specific extracts were evaluated for their antiplasmodial, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities. The study revealed that the extracts from this plant exhibit moderate antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strains. Additionally, the extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant potential across multiple testing assays. Such preparation allows for the detailed phytochemical analysis of the bioactive components contained within the plant.