Libidibia coriaria
Libidibia coriaria · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Libidibia coriaria is a significant botanical species known for its diverse range of therapeutic properties. Within its complex chemical profile, the plant contains notable bioactive compounds such as corilagin. This specific chemical is widely studied for its ability to interact with various biological systems. Due to these unique constituents, the plant is frequently utilized for its potent anthelmintic activities. Consequently, it remains a subject of great interest in both traditional medicine and modern pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Poinciana Coriaria · Caesalpinia Coriaria · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Libidibia coriaria is a versatile species known by a diverse array of regional names across different cultures. It is widely recognized by its common moniker, the Divi-Divi-Baum, which highlights its distinct presence in many landscapes. In certain areas, the tree is affectionately referred to as Brezylka garbarska. Other local dialects frequently identify the plant as Guatapanal or simply as cascalote. Furthermore, it is also commonly called Guaje o cascalote, reflecting the many linguistic traditions tied to this plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Libidibia coriaria is a botanical species that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. Due to shifting taxonomic classifications, it is frequently recognized by the synonym Caesalpinia coriaria. Researchers may also encounter this same plant documented under the name Caesalpinia thomaea in various botanical records. Furthermore, the species has been previously referred to as Poinciana coriaria in older literature. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for ensuring accuracy when studying the plant's complex lineage.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Libidibia coriaria is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the intricate complexity of biological classification. Within this vast kingdom, the species is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the order Fabales, which connects it to a diverse group of flowering plants. Furthermore, it is nested within the family Fabaceae, a lineage known for its significant ecological contributions. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its specific placement within the genus Libidibia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Libidibia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Libidibia coriaria is a widespread species found across various regions of the African continent. Its distribution spans the eastern reaches of East Tropical Africa, including specific habitats in both Tanzania and Uganda. Moving southward, the plant also thrives within the landscapes of Mozambique in South Tropical Africa. Its presence extends into West Tropical Africa, where it can be found in countries like Ghana. Finally, the species reaches into West-Central Tropical Africa, establishing itself within the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Libidibia coriaria is a self-supporting plant that typically exhibits a tree-like growth form. This species is characterized by its moderate stature, reaching a maximum height of approximately 10 meters. In certain optimal conditions, however, it can extend its reach to a height of up to 12 meters. These dimensions make it a distinctive feature within its natural ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Libidibia coriaria, also known as Caesalpinia coriaria, has demonstrated significant anthelmintic activity against the eggs and larvae of Haemonchus contortus. Researchers investigated this potential by testing four different extracts obtained from the plant's foliage through egg hatching and larval exsheathment inhibition tests. The study utilized various solvent combinations, including acetone-water and methanol-water, to evaluate efficacy at concentrations ranging from 500 to 4000 µg mL-1. Results indicated that methanol extracts were most effective at inhibiting egg hatching, whereas acetone extracts showed better results in preventing larval exsheathment. These findings underscore the medicinal importance of this plant within the traditional practices of Central and South American countries.
Compounds
Libidibia coriaria, also known as Caesalpinia coriaria, is a medicinal plant recognized for its significant therapeutic properties. Scientific analysis has revealed that the plant contains various hydrolyzable tannins, which are essential to its biological activity. Specifically, the plant is rich in key phenolic compounds such as gallic acid and 3-O-galloylquinic acid. Research also identifies the presence of digalloylglucose and corilagin within its chemical profile. These diverse constituents contribute to the plant's documented anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective effects.
Conditions
Libidibia coriaria, also referred to as Caesalpinia coriaria, contains corilagin which helps to treat radiation-induced brain injury (RIBI) by attenuating neurocognitive deficits. This compound works to protect blood-brain barrier integrity and inhibits the activation of microglial cells and inflammatory cytokines. In addition to its neurological benefits, this plant is recognized in ethnomedicine for its role in oral healthcare. Specifically, it is utilized in the Dharwad district of India as a remedy to treat tooth ache. These diverse applications demonstrate the plant's significant medicinal value in both neuroprotection and dental health.