Lithocarpus polystachyus
Lithocarpus polystachyus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lithocarpus polystachyus is a botanical species recognized for its diverse array of bioactive chemical constituents. The plant contains significant amounts of specialized compounds such as beta-sitosterol, oleanolic acid, phloridzin, and daucossterol. These phytochemicals have garnered scientific interest due to their potential therapeutic applications in managing complex metabolic disorders. Specifically, research suggests that extracts from this plant may play a role in addressing conditions like hyperglycemia. Furthermore, the species shows promise in mitigating the damaging effects associated with neuroinflammation.
- Synonyms
- Quercus Polystachya · Synaedrys Polystachya · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fagaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lithocarpus polystachyus is a notable plant species that is recognized by several different local names. Depending on the region, it is commonly referred to as Ko Daeng or Ko Hin. It is also frequently identified as Ko Hue Mu in various botanical contexts. Furthermore, the plant carries the alternative names Ko Ket Dam and Ko Kua. These diverse designations highlight the various ways this specific species is known within its environment.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lithocarpus polystachyus is a botanical subject that has been classified under several different scientific names throughout history. Due to evolving taxonomic understandings, it is formally recognized as having the synonym Pasania polystachya. Researchers have also documented its relationship to the name Quercus polystachya in various academic contexts. Furthermore, the plant is associated with the synonym Synaedrys polystachya, reflecting the complexity of its botanical lineage. Understanding these shifting designations is essential for maintaining accuracy in plant identification and forestry studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lithocarpus polystachyus is a remarkable species that belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Fagales, connecting it to a diverse group of woody plants. This species is specifically identified as part of the genus Lithocarpus. Finally, its botanical lineage is solidified by its membership in the family Fagaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Lithocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lithocarpus polystachyus is a notable plant species with a widespread distribution across the tropical regions of Asia. Within the Indian Subcontinent, it can be found spanning from the lush landscapes of Assam to the varied terrains of Bangladesh and the East Himalaya. Its presence also extends into the Indo-China region, where it thrives in diverse ecosystems. Specifically, the species is documented growing throughout the countries of Cambodia and Laos. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to different tropical environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lithocarpus polystachyus is a self-supporting plant that maintains its own structural integrity without the need for external support.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lithocarpus polystachyus serves as a rich source of various bioactive chemical constituents. Detailed phytochemical analysis has confirmed that this plant contains phloridzin, a compound often noted for its specific biological properties. The chemical profile is further enriched by the presence of sterols, specifically beta-sitosterol and daucossterol. Additionally, the plant contains the triterpenoid oleanolic acid, contributing to its complex molecular makeup. Finally, the identification of luteolin within its structure highlights the diverse range of flavonoids present in this species.
Conditions
Lithocarpus polystachyus serves as a source of bioactive compounds, with studies comparing its development when treated with 0 mg/plant versus various nitrogen levels. Specifically, applying 75 mg N/plant fertilization significantly promotes the plant's growth and the accumulation of phlorizin. The compounds derived from Lithocarpus polystachyus, such as trilobatin, have demonstrated therapeutic potential in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). These natural flavonoids effectively protect against the Aβ burden and other pathological features associated with the disease. Consequently, the plant offers a multifaceted approach to halting the progression of neurodegenerative cognitive deficits.