Hura crepitans
Hura crepitans · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Hura crepitans is a remarkable tropical tree that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Research focusing on single plant extracts has revealed that this species possesses potent antibacterial properties. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates specialized biochemical actions, including its role as an 11B-HSD-inhibitor and a 5-lipoxygenase-inhibitor. It has also been identified as an effective aldose-reductase-inhibitor, suggesting therapeutic applications in metabolic regulation. These multifaceted activities highlight the importance of studying this species for future drug development.
- Synonyms
- Hura Crepitans F. Oblongifolia · Hura Crepitans F. Orbicularis · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Hura crepitans is a remarkable species known by a variety of regional names across different areas. It is frequently referred to by the common name Acaçu, though variations in spelling are quite common. Depending on the local dialect, you may also encounter it called Assacu or Assacú. Some populations specifically identify the plant as Assacu-preto to distinguish it from similar flora. Additionally, the name Assacuzeiro is often used to describe this distinct and impressive tree.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Hura crepitans is a botanically complex species that is recognized by several different scientific synonyms. It is frequently referred to in historical records as Hura brasiliensis. The plant also encompasses various forms, including Hura crepitans f. oblongifolia, f. orbicularis, and f. ovata. Furthermore, the taxon includes the specific variety known as Hura crepitans var. membranacea. Understanding these taxonomic relationships is essential for accurate identification and study within the field of botany.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Hura crepitans is a unique biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Malpighiales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. The plant is further categorized into the genus Hura, which distinguishes its specific lineage. Finally, it finds its place within the family Euphorbiaceae, completing its botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Hura |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Hura crepitans exhibits a broad geographic presence that spans both the African continent and parts of North America. In Africa, the species is widely distributed across West Tropical Africa, with specific populations documented in Benin, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. Its reach also extends into West-Central Tropical Africa, where it can be found within the Central African Republic. Beyond the African continent, the plant has established a presence in Northern America. Specifically, it is known to grow within the Southeastern United States, particularly throughout the state of Florida.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Hura crepitans is a remarkable species that grows in the form of a sturdy, self-supporting tree. This impressive botanical specimen can reach a maximum height of 40 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Depending on its environment and age, the tree typically maintains a minimum height of at least 10 meters. More specifically, most well-developed individuals will reach a minimum height of 15.75 meters. These varying growth dimensions highlight the impressive stature this plant achieves within the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Hura crepitans stands out as a promising candidate in the study of medicinal plants traditionally used in Northern Peru to combat bacterial infections. Research conducted on various plant species revealed that this specific plant possesses significant antibacterial activity. Among the many specimens tested, Hura crepitans was identified as having one of the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration values. This characteristic suggests that its extracts are particularly effective at inhibiting bacterial growth compared to many other species. Consequently, the plant represents an important lead for future scientific research into the development of new antibiotic agents.
Compounds
Conditions
Hura crepitans is one of the twelve plant species identified as having relevant antibacterial activity against a panel of 36 microorganisms. This specific plant was evaluated during a study in the Loreto region of the Peruvian Amazon to determine its medicinal properties. Through standardized experiments using the agar dilution method, researchers tested its ability to inhibit various bacteria and yeast strains. The plant demonstrated significant antimicrobial potential with a Minimal Inhibitory Concentration of ≤0.15 mg/mL for one or several of the tested microbes. Consequently, it stands out among the 59 species analyzed for its effective ability to treat these diverse microorganisms.
Preparations
Hura crepitans is prepared as single plant extracts for use in contemporary phytotherapies within the Loreto region of the Peruvian Amazon. These specific extracts were included in a study evaluating the antimicrobial properties of various medicinal plants against a panel of bacteria and yeast. During the research, the plant was tested using the agar dilution method to determine its Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The analysis revealed that Hura crepitans is among the twelve species that demonstrated relevant antibacterial activity. This preparation method allowed researchers to investigate the potential efficacy of the species against several microorganisms.