Goniothalamus malayanus

Goniothalamus malayanus · Accepted scientific name

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

Goniothalamus malayanus is a notable botanical species that has gained attention for its unique chemical profile. Research focusing on the plant's leaf components has revealed a rich array of bioactive compounds. Specifically, methanol extracts of these leaves are utilized to isolate significant secondary metabolites. Among the identified constituents are the sesquiterpenes bicyclogermacrene and germacrene D. These findings highlight the plant's potential importance in pharmacological and phytochemical studies.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Goniothalamus Slingerlandtianus · Goniothalamus Ventristylus · 4 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Annonaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Leaf

Classification

Synonyms

Goniothalamus malayanus is a taxonomically complex species that has been associated with several different botanical names over time. Researchers have identified various synonyms for this plant, including the distinct designation of Goniothalamus dispermus. The classification also encompasses specific varieties, such as Goniothalamus malayanus var. dispermus and Goniothalamus malayanus var. slingerlandtianus. Further taxonomic overlaps exist with names like Goniothalamus slingerlandtianus and Goniothalamus puncticulatus. Understanding these diverse naming conventions is essential for maintaining accurate records within the genus.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Goniothalamus malayanus is a specialized organism that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further occupies a specific place within the order Magnoliales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. As a member of the genus Goniothalamus, it represents a unique lineage of tropical flora. Finally, this plant is a distinguished representative of the 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 malayanus is a tropical species widely distributed across various regions of Asia. Its presence is firmly established throughout Indo-China, specifically within the territories of Thailand and the Nicobar Islands. The plant also thrives within the Malesia region, spanning across key locations such as Malaya and Sumatera. Furthermore, its geographical reach extends to the island of Borneo, showcasing its adaptability to diverse habitats. This wide-ranging distribution highlights the significant ecological footprint of the species across the tropical landscape.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Goniothalamus malayanus is a self-supporting plant that adopts a tree-like growth form. It can reach a maximum height of 16 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. This stature allows the species to establish a significant presence within its ecosystem.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Goniothalamus malayanus exhibits significant potential as a source of new platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonists. Research into Malaysian medicinal plants identified this specific species as being capable of inhibiting PAF binding to rabbit platelets. Its methanol extract demonstrated notable inhibitory effects during investigations using 3H-PAF as a ligand. The plant's potency is characterized by an IC50 value that falls within the effective range of 1.2 to 18.4 microg ml(-1). Consequently, this species stands out among many studied plants for its ability to treat or counteract PAF receptor-binding activity.

Preparations

Goniothalamus malayanus is prepared as methanol extracts to investigate its potential medicinal properties. These specific extracts were analyzed for their ability to inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF) binding to rabbit platelets. As one of the thirty-seven Malaysian medicinal plant species tested, it showed significant inhibitory effects in the study. The research identifies this plant as a potential source of new PAF antagonists due to its biological activity. Consequently, the methanol-based preparation of Goniothalamus malayanus proved effective within the experimental parameters.

Parts used

Goniothalamus malayanus possesses specific botanical characteristics that make it a subject of significant chemical interest. Researchers have focused their investigations on the essential oils extracted directly from the plant's leaf. Through the process of hydrodistillation, these oils were successfully isolated for detailed study. Advanced analytical techniques, including gas chromatography, were then used to identify the oil's complex chemical makeup. The results revealed that bicyclogermacrene is the most abundant component found within the leaves of this species.