Goniothalamus griffithii

Goniothalamus griffithii · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Goniothalamus griffithii is a distinctive botanical species recognized for its unique structural characteristics. This plant is primarily valued for its medicinal potential derived from its underground rhizome. Various traditional preparations utilize these rhizomes to harness their specific biological properties. Understanding the chemical composition of these parts is essential for exploring their therapeutic applications. Consequently, the rhizomes of this species remain a significant subject of interest in ethnobotanical research.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Not available
Common names
Not available
Family
Annonaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Rhizome

Classification

Common Names

Goniothalamus griffithii is a fascinating botanical species known by several distinct regional names. In Thailand, this plant is affectionately referred to by its common name, ปาหนันมรกต. It is also recognized in Chinese-speaking regions under the name 大花哥纳香. These varied designations highlight the plant's widespread cultural and linguistic presence across different parts of Asia. Understanding these naming relationships helps enthusiasts and researchers identify the species more easily in various global contexts.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Taxonomy

Goniothalamus griffithii is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Magnoliales, showcasing its evolutionary connections to other ancient flowering plants. The species is a distinguished member of the genus Goniothalamus, a group known for its unique morphological traits. Ultimately, these relationships place the plant firmly within the diverse and ecologically significant family Annonaceae.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Magnoliales
Family Annonaceae
Genus Goniothalamus

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Goniothalamus griffithii is a plant species primarily found within the diverse ecosystems of the Asia-Tropical region. Its geographical footprint extends through the lush landscapes of Indo-China, where it plays a unique role in the local flora. Specifically, the species can be located across several distinct territories, including the Andaman Islands and Myanmar. Furthermore, it maintains a significant presence within the tropical environments of Thailand. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive across various habitats within its native range.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Goniothalamus griffithii is a self-supporting tree that maintains a sturdy structure throughout its development. Reaching a maximum height of 8 meters, this species establishes a distinct presence within its habitat. Its characteristic growth form allows it to thrive as a compact yet resilient component of the forest landscape.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Goniothalamus griffithii contains various styryl-lactones within its rhizomes that demonstrate significant biological potential. Researchers isolated several new compounds, such as 8-acetylgoniofufurone, alongside ten previously known chemical constituents. These specific substances were identified through detailed structural analysis using IR, MS, and NMR spectra. Crucially, every compound isolated from the plant exhibited measurable cytotoxic activities. This demonstrates that Goniothalamus griffithii effectively treats human cancer cell lines through its diverse chemical profile.

Preparations

Goniothalamus griffithii is prepared as rhizomes for the purpose of extracting various chemical compounds. These rhizomes serve as the primary source for isolating thirteen distinct styryl-lactones. Researchers identified several new structures, such as 8-acetylgoniofufurone, through the analysis of these plant parts. The chemical components derived from the rhizomes undergo structural elucidation using IR, MS, and NMR spectra. Ultimately, the substances obtained from these prepared rhizomes demonstrate significant cytotoxic activities against human cancer cell lines.

Parts used

Goniothalamus griffithii is a botanical species that possesses a specialized underground structure known as the rhizome. Scientific investigations have focused on this specific part of the plant to isolate various bioactive secondary metabolites. Researchers successfully extracted several unique styryl-lactones, including new compounds such as 8-acetylgoniofufurone, from these rhizomes. Through the use of IR, MS, and NMR spectroscopy, the complex chemical structures of these isolated substances were clearly elucidated. Most notably, the compounds derived from the rhizomes demonstrated significant cytotoxic activities against several human cancer cell lines.