Enterolobium cyclocarpum
Enterolobium cyclocarpum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is a versatile botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in modern pharmacology. Research indicates that various extracts from this plant exhibit powerful anthelmintic, antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-HIV activities. These bioactive compounds offer promising medicinal applications for managing diverse health concerns, ranging from viral infections to cellular abnormalities. Specifically, the plant's derivatives have shown efficacy in treating dermatological conditions such as athlete's foot, onychomycosis, and pityriasis versicolor. Furthermore, its medicinal properties extend to respiratory health, providing potential support in addressing complex cases like Pneumocystis pneumonia.
- Synonyms
- Mimosa Parota · Mimosa Cyclocarpa · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is a remarkable tree known by many diverse names across different cultures and languages. In various Spanish-speaking regions, it is frequently referred to as the Arbol de oreja or the Corotu. It also carries the traditional name Huanacaxtle, which is widely recognized in parts of Mexico and Central America. In German-speaking areas, the species is identified by the descriptive term Ohrenfruchtbaum. Finally, it is sometimes called Affenseife, highlighting the wide linguistic range used to describe this single botanical species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is a botanical species recognized by several different scientific names throughout history. In various taxonomic records, it is identified by the synonym Albizia longipes. The plant has also been classified under the names Feuilleea cyclocarpa and Inga cyclocarpa. Furthermore, researchers have linked it to the synonyms Mimosa cyclocarpa and Mimosa parota. These overlapping nomenclatures reflect the complex evolving nature of botanical classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further categorized into the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It holds a prominent position within the genus Enterolobium. Finally, its botanical identity is solidified by its membership in the family Fabaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Enterolobium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Enterolobium cyclocarpum exhibits a diverse geographical presence across several key regions of the African continent. Its distribution spans the West Tropical Africa coastline, with established populations found in Ghana, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. The species also extends into West-Central Tropical Africa, specifically within the Central African Republic. Beyond the mainland, this plant reaches the remote Western Indian Ocean, including the Chagos Archipelago. This wide range demonstrates the remarkable adaptability of the species to various tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is a magnificent tree characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This impressive species can reach significant proportions within its natural habitat. Depending on environmental conditions, it typically achieves a height of up to 30 meters. However, in optimal settings, the tree can grow even larger, reaching a maximum height of 60 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Enterolobium cyclocarpum has demonstrated significant potential in recent studies focused on identifying new botanical extracts to combat various fungal infections. Researchers screened several Guadeloupean plants to find effective treatments for conditions such as athlete's foot, onychomycosis, and more serious infections like Pneumocystis pneumonia. Through testing against a diverse range of dermatophytes and Candida species, this specific plant emerged as one of the most promising candidates. The results indicated that its extracts possess interesting antifungal activity, making it a valuable subject for further pharmacological study. Consequently, Enterolobium cyclocarpum could serve as a vital foundation for the development of new, effective antifungal formulations.
Compounds
Conditions
Enterolobium cyclocarpum demonstrates promising antifungal properties that could be utilized to treat various fungal infections. Research indicates that extracts from this plant are effective against superficial mycoses, including Pityriasis versicolor and athlete's foot. Furthermore, the plant shows potential in managing onychomycosis, a common nail infection. Beyond superficial issues, it also exhibits interesting activity against the deep fungal infection Pneumocystis pneumonia. These findings suggest that the species is a strong candidate for the development of new antifungal formulations.
Preparations
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is prepared as extracts to investigate its potential medicinal properties. In the study of Guadeloupean plants, these specific extracts were processed using cyclohexane, ethanol, and an ethanol/water mixture. Researchers tested these formulations to determine their effectiveness against various dermatophytes and Candida species. The findings indicate that the plant's extracts demonstrate interesting antifungal activities. Consequently, this species is considered a strong candidate for the future development of antifungal formulations.