Erythrina senegalensis
Erythrina senegalensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erythrina senegalensis is a versatile medicinal plant known for its significant pharmacological activities, including analgesic, antibacterial, and antiplasmodial properties. Scientific investigations have identified key bioactive compounds within the species, such as glycosides and the specific molecule senegalensin. Research indicates that extracts from this plant can target various conditions, ranging from 15-lipoxygenase inhibition and Alzheimer's disease to combating pathogens like Bacillus cereus and Candida albicans. Therapeutic potential is often derived from the stem and roots through preparations such as leaf powder, decoctions, or the aqueous extract of the stem bark. Consequently, these diverse plant parts and preparations serve as vital resources in the study of natural bioactive agents.
- Synonyms
- Chirocalyx Latifolius · Corallodendron Senegalense · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem · Root
Classification
Common Names
Erythrina senegalensis is a versatile botanical species recognized by a diverse array of regional names across the globe. It is most frequently referred to in English as the Coral tree or the Senegal coraltree. In certain linguistic contexts, it is also known as the Erythrine du Sénégal. The plant's identity extends into Central Europe as the koralník senegalský and into East Asia as the 塞内加尔刺桐. These varied common names reflect the widespread beauty and international presence of this striking flowering tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Erythrina senegalensis is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. It is frequently identified in historical literature under the names Chirocalyx latifolius and Corallodendron senegalense. The plant has also been categorized through various other designations, including Erythrina guineensis and Erythrina latifolia. Furthermore, specific regional variations are recognized, such as the variety Erythrina senegalensis var. camerounensis. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate botanical identification and scientific study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Erythrina senegalensis is a distinctive botanical specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant further falls into the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It is a member of the prominent Fabaceae family, which is known for its diverse characteristics. Ultimately, this species is identified by its placement within the genus Erythrina.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrina |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Erythrina senegalensis is a resilient species widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of the African continent. Its presence is notably established throughout Northeast Tropical Africa, including regions such as Chad. The plant also maintains a significant footprint across West Tropical Africa, flourishing in various ecological niches. Specifically, it can be found growing within the borders of Benin, Burkina Faso, and the Gambia. Furthermore, its reach extends through the lush environments of Ghana, showcasing its broad regional adaptability.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Erythrina senegalensis is a self-supporting tree that establishes a commanding presence in its natural environment. This robust species typically reaches a minimum height of 4 meters as it matures. While smaller specimens may start at roughly 3 meters, the plant is capable of significant upward development. Under optimal conditions, the tree can achieve a maximum height of approximately 15.24 meters. This impressive growth form allows it to stand out within diverse landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Erythrina senegalensis is an ornamental plant that holds significant value in traditional medicine, particularly for its diverse therapeutic properties. Scientific evaluations of its stem bark have demonstrated that the plant possesses notable analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, research into Guinean traditional medicine identifies this species as having effective antibacterial activity against various pathogens. While studies also indicate that the plant exhibits antiplasmodial activity, these effects are often observed to be slight compared to its other medicinal benefits. These combined pharmacological attributes highlight the plant's importance in treating fevers and other infectious conditions.
Compounds
Erythrina senegalensis is an African medicinal plant known to contain a diverse array of bioactive secondary metabolites. Among its many chemical constituents, the plant yields important prenylated isoflavonoids such as senegalensin, alpinumisoflavone, and derrone. Research also highlights the presence of the flavonoid carpachromene within its chemical profile. Furthermore, the specific isoflavonoid erysenegalensein M has been identified as one of its notable components. Many of these isolated substances are currently being investigated for their significant potential in anticancer therapies.
Conditions
Erythrina senegalensis exhibits a wide range of therapeutic potential, including the ability to treat Alzheimer's disease through its antioxidant properties. The plant contains prenylated flavonoids, such as erybraedin F, which act as strong inhibitors of 15-lipoxygenase. Furthermore, research into Guinean traditional medicine demonstrates that the plant possesses antibacterial and antifungal activity. Specifically, it has shown effectiveness in treating the pathogens Bacillus cereus, Mycobacterium fortuitum, and Candida albicans. These diverse medicinal applications highlight the plant's significant pharmacological value in both traditional and scientific contexts.
Preparations
Erythrina senegalensis is utilized in various traditional medicinal preparations across different West African regions. The plant is commonly prepared as a decoction of the leaves or simply as a general decoction for treating ailments. Additionally, leaf powder is used as a specific form of preparation for medicinal purposes. In certain studies, an aqueous extract of the stem bark is also prepared to evaluate its biological activities. These diverse preparation methods highlight the versatile ways the species is processed for therapeutic use.
Parts used
Erythrina senegalensis is a versatile medicinal plant that yields various bioactive compounds from different anatomical structures. Scientific studies have successfully isolated important metabolites such as senegalensin and various long-chain esters from its stem bark. The plant's root bark also serves as a significant source of chemical diversity, providing researchers with unique pterocarpans and prenylated flavonoids. Specifically, studies have identified that certain pterocarpans are found in the roots, while others are isolated from the stem. This distribution of secondary metabolites across the stem and root highlights the complex chemical profile of the species.