Guatteria foliosa
Guatteria foliosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Guatteria foliosa is a notable botanical species that has gained significant scientific attention due to its complex chemical profile. Research into this plant has identified several bioactive compounds, including (+)-norguattevaline, (-)-3-hydroxynornuciferine, 3-methoxyoxoputerine, and argentinine. These unique secondary metabolites suggest that the plant possesses potent pharmacological properties. Specifically, studies have investigated its potential efficacy in addressing serious parasitic infections such as Leishmaniasis and Trypanosoma cruzi. Consequently, this species represents a promising subject for the development of new therapeutic agents against tropical diseases.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Guatteria foliosa is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional names. Depending on the local area, it may be referred to as Aceituno negro or Anonilla. Some communities also call it Carahuasca negra, highlighting its unique botanical identity. It is similarly identified as Carguero negro in various traditional contexts. Finally, the species is recognized by the descriptive name Envireira-da-casca-verde.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Guatteria foliosa is a notable species belonging to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Magnoliales, showcasing its evolutionary connections to other ancient lineages. The plant is a proud member of the family Annonaceae, which is characterized by its unique floral structures. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Guatteria, which defines its unique botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Guatteria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Guatteria foliosa is a plant species with a broad geographical presence across the South American continent. Its distribution spans several key regions, including extensive areas within Brazil such as the Northern and West-Central territories. The species is also commonly found throughout Northern South America, specifically within French Guiana and Venezuela. Furthermore, its range extends into Western South America, where it can be located in Bolivia. This widespread occurrence highlights the plant's ability to thrive across diverse South American ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Guatteria foliosa is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its ecosystem. Reaching a maximum height of 12 meters, this species displays a robust and well-defined growth form. Its structural integrity allows it to thrive as a significant component of the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Guatteria foliosa is a plant species of significant pharmacological interest due to its rich profile of specialized alkaloids. Research has identified that this plant contains several unique compounds, including the noraporphine (-)-3-methoxyputerine and the oxoaporphine 3-methoxyoxoputerine. Additionally, the species is known to harbor the isoquinoline alkaloid isoguattouregidine. Beyond these specific molecules, Guatteria foliosa also contains the alkaloid argentinine. These diverse chemical constituents have demonstrated significant biological activity, particularly against protozoan parasites like Trypanosoma cruzi.
Conditions
Guatteria foliosa contains specific bioactive compounds that demonstrate significant therapeutic potential against parasitic infections. The plant produces isoquinoline alkaloids, such as isoguattouregidine, which exhibit antileishmanial activity. Additionally, various alkaloids found within this species show significant activity against Trypanosoma cruzi. These medicinal properties highlight the plant's role in treating leishmaniasis through its natural chemical constituents. Consequently, the alkaloids derived from Guatteria foliosa serve as important agents for combating these specific protozoal diseases.