Leplaea cedrata

Leplaea cedrata · Accepted scientific name

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

Leplaea cedrata is a botanical species that has gained significant interest within the field of ethnopharmacology. Recent investigations have focused on the biological potential of this plant when subjected to specific testing protocols. Specifically, researchers have utilized an aqueous extract to evaluate its medicinal properties. The primary objective of these studies is to observe the plant's efficacy against the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Understanding these interactions provides valuable insight into the potential antifungal applications of this natural resource.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Khaya Canaliculata · Trichilia Cedrata · 2 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Meliaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Leplaea cedrata is a plant known by a diverse array of regional names that reflect its cultural significance. It is frequently referred to by the common names Bos and Bosse, depending on the local dialect. In certain areas, the species is also recognized as Edoucié, highlighting its unique identity within the botanical landscape. Another distinct name used to identify this plant is Kwabohoro, which further showcases its linguistic variety. Finally, it is sometimes called Light Bossé, providing yet another way for people to identify this specific species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Leplaea cedrata is a botanical species that has been identified through various taxonomic classifications over time. Scientific records indicate that this plant is synonymous with Guarea alatipetiolata and Guarea cedrata. Furthermore, the species has been historically linked to the name Khaya canaliculata in certain botanical contexts. It is also recognized under the synonym Trichilia cedrata, reflecting the complexity of its nomenclatural history. Understanding these various designations is essential for accurate identification within the plant kingdom.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Leplaea cedrata is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized into the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. This plant is a member of the genus Leplaea, a group defined by unique morphological characteristics. Finally, it resides within the Meliaceae family, connecting it to a diverse lineage of flowering plants.

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

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Leplaea cedrata is a botanical species with an expansive distribution spanning across several regions of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, its presence is notably documented within the borders of Uganda. Moving toward the western reaches of the continent, the plant thrives throughout various West Tropical African nations. This includes established populations found in Ghana, Guinea, and the Ivory Coast. Finally, its natural range extends further into the West Tropical region to include Liberia.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Leplaea cedrata is a robust tree characterized by its strong, self-supporting growth form. This impressive species can reach a maximum height of approximately 45 meters in many environments. However, under optimal conditions, it has been known to stretch even higher, reaching a peak of nearly 48.77 meters. Such significant stature allows it to command a prominent presence within its natural habitat.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Leplaea cedrata, specifically in its aqueous form, exhibits anti-fungal activity against the pathogen Candida albicans. Although it possesses the ability to treat this fungus, its efficacy is the lowest among the medicinal plants tested in the study. The research recorded a minimal fungicidal concentration of 1600 mg/mL for the Guarea cedrata aqueous extract. This measurement represents the weakest anti-fungal response compared to more potent species like Terminalia superba. Consequently, while the plant does treat Candida albicans, it is significantly less effective than the other evaluated extracts.

Preparations

Leplaea cedrata is prepared as an aqueous extract within the scope of this medicinal plant study. This specific extraction process was utilized to evaluate the anti-fungal properties of various species from the Ivorian pharmacopoeia. During the testing, the aqueous extract of this plant demonstrated a minimal fungicidal concentration of 1600 mg/mL. This measurement represented the lowest level of anti-fungal activity among the different extracts evaluated in the research. Consequently, the aqueous preparation of the plant serves as a key data point for comparing varying degrees of efficacy against Candida albicans.

Parts used