Guatteria guianensis
Guatteria guianensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Guatteria guianensis is a botanical species of significant pharmacological interest due to its diverse chemical profile. Research focusing on the plant's root has successfully isolated several bioactive compounds, including Dihydromadolin K, Guadiscine, Guatterin A, and Lanuginosine. When prepared as an ethanol extract, these constituents demonstrate notable biological activities. Specifically, studies have investigated the efficacy of these preparations against the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Understanding these interactions provides valuable insight into the potential medicinal applications of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Guatteria Robusta · Aberemoa Guianensis · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Guatteria guianensis is a plant recognized by a diverse array of regional names across its native habitats. Locally, it is frequently referred to as Carahuasca or Churum yeis by various communities. In other areas, the species is known by the names Envira-da-mata and Invira. It is also commonly called Espintana, reflecting the different linguistic traditions surrounding its identity. These varied common names highlight the cultural significance and widespread presence of this botanical species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Guatteria guianensis is a complex botanical subject characterized by a wide array of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this species is frequently identified by the name Aberemoa guianensis. The plant's classification also encompasses several specific variations, such as Aberemoa guianensis var. glabrescens and Guatteria aberemoa var. microcarpa. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this taxon under the designations Guatteria calophylla or Guatteria excellens. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate identification and study within the genus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Guatteria guianensis is a unique biological entity that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this diverse realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This specific plant is a member of the order Magnoliales, showcasing its evolutionary lineage. It further belongs to the family Annonaceae, which highlights its botanical connections. Ultimately, this species is identified by its distinct genus, Guatteria.
| 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 guianensis is a versatile species widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of South America. Its presence is particularly notable throughout Brazil, spanning from the northern reaches to the west-central regions. The plant also thrives in the tropical environments of French Guiana within Northern South America. Moving westward, its range extends into the lush terrains of Colombia. Finally, the species continues its reach into the mountainous and coastal areas of Ecuador.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Guatteria guianensis is a self-supporting tree that plays a distinct role in its natural ecosystem. This robust plant can reach a significant height, typically scaling up to 12 meters. However, in certain optimal conditions, it has the potential to grow even larger, reaching a maximum height of 25 meters. Its sturdy growth form allows it to stand firmly within the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Guatteria guianensis is a plant of significant phytochemical interest due to its diverse chemical profile. Research indicates that this species contains several notable sesquiterpenoids, including guatterin A and dihydromadolin K. Furthermore, the plant serves as a source of various alkaloids such as guadiscine and lanuginosine. The presence of liriodenine within its composition further highlights its complex biological makeup. These specific chemical relationships underscore the potential therapeutic value inherent in the plant's secondary metabolites.
Conditions
Guatteria guianensis exhibits significant therapeutic potential through its ability to treat various pathogenic microorganisms. Specifically, the plant contains compounds that treat Candida albicans by demonstrating effective antimicrobial activity. It also shows promise in treating Candida albicans secreted aspartic proteases (SAP) through inhibitory effects. Furthermore, the plant is capable of treating Cryptococcus neoformans to combat fungal infections. Finally, its medicinal properties extend to treating Staphylococcus aureus and the more resistant methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRS).
Preparations
Guatteria guianensis is prepared as an ethanol extract to facilitate phytochemical investigations. This specific preparation method allows for the isolation of various bioactive compounds from the plant material. By using an ethanol extract, researchers can effectively extract sesquiterpenoids and alkaloids for further analysis. The resulting fraction serves as a critical starting point for identifying new chemical structures. Consequently, this extraction process is essential for evaluating the medicinal potential of the species.
Parts used
Guatteria guianensis is a member of a genus where various species possess significant chemical properties. Scientific investigations into related species like Guatteria multivenia have highlighted the importance of studying specific plant parts. In the case of Guatteria multivenia, the root serves as a vital source for discovering new sesquiterpenoids and alkaloids. These isolated compounds, such as guatterin A, have demonstrated potential antimicrobial activities against various pathogens. Such research underscores how the root components of this genus can yield valuable bioactive molecules for medicinal study.