Guarea bullata

Guarea bullata · Accepted scientific name

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

Guarea bullata is a significant botanical species often recognized for its diverse medicinal potential. Researchers frequently utilize both fresh and dried plant materials to conduct detailed pharmacological studies. One of the primary methods for studying its bioactive properties involves the creation of hidroalcoholic extracts. These specialized preparations allow for the efficient isolation of key chemical compounds found within the plant. Consequently, understanding the efficacy of these extracts is essential for advancing its traditional therapeutic uses.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Not available
Common names
Not available
Family
Meliaceae
Distribution
Southern America
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Taxonomy

Guarea bullata is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the complex diversity of the natural world. Within this vast biological realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the diverse order Sapindales, which connects it to many other significant woody plants. Furthermore, this species is a representative of the genus Guarea, a group defined by specific botanical traits. Ultimately, it resides within the Meliaceae family, marking its place in a lineage of ecologically important trees.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Sapindales
Family Meliaceae
Genus Guarea

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Guarea bullata displays a broad geographic range that spans across both the northern and southern reaches of the Americas. In the north, the species is distributed throughout North America, specifically within Mexico, the Mexico Gulf region, and the Mexico Southwest. Moving southward, its presence extends into Central America, where it can be found throughout Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Honduras. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse tropical and subtropical environments. Consequently, understanding these varied habitats is essential for grasping the ecological footprint of this versatile species.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Guarea bullata is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its ecosystem. Characterized by its distinct growth form, this species can reach a maximum height of 17 meters. Such structural development allows it to occupy a significant niche in the forest canopy.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Guarea bullata has been identified as a promising plant species for the treatment of Leishmania sp. based on studies conducted in Costa Rica. Research involving extracts from the Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve demonstrated that this plant possesses significant anti-leishmanial activity. Specifically, Guarea bullata met the criteria for effectiveness by presenting an IC50 value of 98.8 μg/mL. This measurement confirms its potential as a medicinal resource against the parasite. The findings suggest that the plant's chemical components could contribute to new therapeutic options for managing leishmaniosis.

Preparations

Guarea bullata is prepared as fresh or dried hidroalcoholic extracts to evaluate its biological properties. These specific extracts were derived from various plant parts, including the root, stem, leaves, flowers, and fruits. During the study conducted in Costa Rica, these preparations were tested for their potential anti-leishmanial activity. The research identified that Guarea bullata possesses an IC50 value of 98.8 μg/mL against the Leishmania strain. Consequently, these fresh or dried hidroalcoholic extracts represent a significant finding for potential leishmaniosis treatments.

Parts used