Irvingia malayana

Irvingia malayana · Accepted scientific name

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

Irvingia malayana, commonly known as the African mango, is a tropical tree species renowned for its nutrient-dense seeds and versatile ecological importance. Scientific interest in this plant has surged due to the diverse range of bioactive compounds found within its tissues. Researchers frequently utilize methanol extracts to isolate these potent phytochemicals for pharmacological study. These specific preparations are essential for investigating the plant's potential therapeutic properties and antioxidant activities. Consequently, understanding the chemical profile of these extracts offers promising insights into new medicinal applications.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Irvingella Malayana · Irvingella Oliveri · 2 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Irvingiaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Irvingia malayana is a versatile plant known by several distinct regional names across different languages. In certain areas, it is commonly referred to as Ko Nia, while it is also identified as Kơ nia. Its linguistic reach extends to Central Europe, where it is known as irvingie malajská. Additionally, the plant is widely recognized by the name กระบก in Thailand. Understanding these diverse common names helps researchers and enthusiasts identify this species globally.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Irvingia malayana is a plant species that is frequently identified through various botanical synonyms in scientific literature. Due to taxonomic shifts, it has been historically referred to by the names Irvingella harmandiana and Irvingella malayana. The plant is also associated with the nomenclature Irvingella oliveri in certain classification contexts. Additionally, the name Irvingia oliveri serves as another recognized synonym for this specific taxon. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification and research within the field of botany.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Irvingia malayana is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the diverse complexity of the natural world. This species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, placing it within a broad group of vascular plants. It belongs to the order Malpighiales, a significant lineage that includes a wide variety of flowering plants. Within this order, the plant is situated in the family Irvingiaceae, highlighting its unique botanical characteristics. Ultimately, its specific identity is defined by its placement in the genus Irvingia, distinguishing it from other related species.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Malpighiales
Family Irvingiaceae
Genus Irvingia

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Irvingia malayana is a notable tropical species found throughout various regions of Asia. Its natural distribution is centered within the lush landscapes of Indo-China, spanning several distinct nations. Specifically, this plant can be discovered growing across the diverse terrains of Cambodia and Laos. It also maintains a significant presence within the borders of Myanmar and Thailand. Finally, its geographical reach extends into the tropical environments of Vietnam, completing its regional footprint.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Irvingia malayana is a self-supporting tree that establishes a robust presence within its natural habitat. This species exhibits a significant growth form, reaching a maximum height of 40 meters. Such impressive stature allows it to become a prominent feature of the forest canopy.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Irvingia malayana exhibits significant anti-angiogenic properties through its ability to inhibit the development of new blood vessels. Specifically, the plant demonstrates an ability to treat rat aortic vascular growth by showing measurable inhibition in ring assays. Its biological activity is further evidenced by its capacity to treat tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Additionally, studies on the plant's effect on human cancer cell lines show that it treats cytotoxicity by not displaying acute toxicity. These combined effects highlight the medicinal potential of the plant in managing cellular and vascular processes.

Preparations

Irvingia malayana is prepared as methanol extracts to evaluate its potential anti-angiogenic properties. These specific extracts were tested using the rat aortic ring assay to measure their ability to inhibit vascular growth. During the study, the methanol extract of this plant demonstrated a 46.4% inhibition rate at a concentration of 100 microg/mL. Further testing through a tube formation assay involving human umbilical vein endothelial cells also confirmed the activity of these extracts. Ultimately, the methanol-based preparation of Irvingia malayana was found to contain betulinic acid following further fractionation.

Parts used