Lophira alata
What's the taxonomical classification of Lophira alata?
Lophira alata belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta. Its taxonomic progression continues through the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, placing it within the order Malpighiales. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the family Ochnaceae, falling under the genus Lophira, and is specifically identified by its species name, alata.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Ochnaceae |
| Genus | Lophira |
| Species | alata |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Lophira alata has an erect, perennial growth habit characterized by long, slender stems and lanceolate leaves with prominent longitudinal veins. The foliage typically exhibits a linear or narrowly elliptical shape, providing a streamlined appearance to the plant's structure. Its flowers are arranged in specialized inflorescences that emerge from the leaf axils or terminal positions. The reproductive organs are adapted to specific pollinators, often displaying distinct color patterns and fine textures. This morphological configuration allows the plant to thrive in its specific ecological niche.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical regions of West Africa, specifically occurring within countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. It thrives primarily in lowland rainforest environments and moist secondary forests where humidity remains high. The species is often found growing in the understory or along forest edges where filtered sunlight is available. Its distribution follows the humid equatorial belt where consistent rainfall supports its growth requirements. Local ecological conditions dictate its presence within these specific forest ecosystems.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant, commonly known as winged balsam, requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter and consistent moisture to thrive in warm, sunny environments.
It is best cultivated in partial shade during the hottest parts of the day to prevent the delicate foliage from scorching. Regular watering is essential to prevent wilting, though the soil should never remain waterlogged to avoid root rot. Because it grows rapidly in tropical climates, periodic thinning may be necessary to maintain adequate airflow between stems.
Once established, it serves as an excellent ornamental choice for adding lush texture to garden borders.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Lophira alatata is utilized medicinally through its bark, leaves, and roots to treat various ailments. The bark is often processed to create decoctions that address specific inflammatory conditions. Its leaves are frequently crushed or brewed into teas to alleviate digestive discomfort or fevers. Additionally, the root is harvested and prepared to serve as a potent remedy for stabilizing internal systems. Each of these distinct parts contains unique bioactive compounds that contribute to the plant's therapeutic properties.
According to a study published by "BMC complementary and alternative medicine", the bark of Lophira alata is used medicinally. This plant part is referred to as LAB in the research. The study evaluated the cytotoxicity of the methanol extract of this bark towards 5 human solid cancer cell lines and normal CRL2120 fibroblasts. Phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed the presence of polyphenols, triterpenes and sterols.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- bark
- leaves
- root
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Lophira alata has been traditionally utilized by various indigenous communities as a versatile medicinal resource for treating skin ailments and gastrointestinal distress.
Local practitioners often prepare decoctions or poultices from its leaves to soothe inflammation and accelerate the healing of external wounds. In some historical contexts, specific parts of the plant were integrated into ritualistic practices to symbolize purification or spiritual cleansing. The knowledge regarding its chemical properties and applications was primarily passed down through oral traditions and ancestral healing methods.
These customary uses highlight the plant's long-standing importance within the ethnobotanical heritage of its native regions.
What are the pharmacological activities of Lophira alata?
This plant has demonstrated significant pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and cytotoxic properties. Research indicates that its bioactive compounds effectively combat various bacterial and fungal pathogens through strong antimicrobial mechanisms. The plant also shows potent antimalarial effects which can aid in the management of parasitic infections. Furthermore, its antiproliferative and cytotoxic capabilities suggest potential applications in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. These diverse medicinal attributes highlight the plant's importance in drug discovery and therapeutic development.
According to a study published by "Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry", two chalcone tetramers, lophirachalcone and alatachalcone, were isolated from Lophira alata as inhibitors of Epstein-Barr virus activation induced by the tumor promoter teleocidin B-4. Both compounds demonstrated potent inhibitory activities against teleocidin B-4-induced inflammation on mouse ear. In an initiation-promotion experiment on mouse skin, alatachalcone at 16 nmol significantly inhibited tumor promotion caused by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate at 1.6 nmol. These substances from Lophira alata serve as possible anti-tumor promoters.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-tumor promoter
- anti-malarial
- antimicrobial
- antiproliferative
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds alatachalcone, lithospermoside, lophirachalcone, lophirone L, and lophirone M. These specific chemical constituents are characteristic of the Lophira alatata species. Researchers study these diverse molecules to understand their unique biological properties and therapeutic potential. The presence of these chalcones and glycosides distinguishes this plant within its botanical family. Detailed chemical profiling helps identify how these substances interact with various biological targets.
According to a study published by "Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry", the medicinal plant Lophira alatas contains two chalcone tetramers known as lophirachalcone and alatachalcone. These compounds act as inhibitors of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) activation induced by the tumor promoter teleocidin B-4. Both lophirachalcone and alatachalcone demonstrated potent inhibitory activities against inflammation induced by teleociidin B-4 on mouse ears. In a skin experiment, alatachalcone at 16 nmol significantly inhibited tumor promotion caused by 1.6 nmol of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA).
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- alatachalcone
- lithospermoside
- lophirachalcone
- lophirone L
- lophirone M
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-activation, cancer, inflammation, malignant glioma, and various types of tumor growths. It contains bioactive compounds that help regulate the body's immune response to prevent the reactivation of latent viruses. Researchers have studied its potential to inhibit the progression of malignant glioma within the brain. Additionally, the plant exhibits properties that can mitigate systemic inflammation throughout the body. These therapeutic effects make it a subject of interest for managing both benign and malignant tumor developments.
According to a study published by "Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry", the medicinal plant Lophira alata provides chalcone tetramers used as possible anti-tumor promoters. Two specific compounds, lophirachalcone and the new alatachalcone, were isolated as inhibitors of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-activation induced by the tumor promoter teleocidin B-4. Both of these compounds demonstrated potent inhibitory activities against inflammation on mouse ears caused by teleocidin B-4. In an initiation-promotion experiment on mouse skin, 16 nmol of alatachalcone significantly inhibited tumor promotion caused by 1.6 nmol of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA).
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-activation
- cancer
- inflammation
- malignant glioma
- tumor
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create medicinal herbal preparations including Lophira alata leaf extract decoctions and methanolic extracts. These specific formulations are processed to isolate various bioactive compounds responsible for the plant's therapeutic properties. Decoctions are typically prepared by boiling the plant material in water to release soluble constituents for medicinal use. Methanolic extracts involve using methanol as a solvent to more efficiently capture a wider range of phytochemicals. Together, these different preparation methods allow for targeted applications in traditional and pharmacological studies.
According to a study published by "Drug research", Lophira alata leaf extracts were tested for efficacy in treating malaria in mice that had undergone 1 round of P. berghei infection and Pyrimethamine drug-cure to establish partial immunity. There was a significant reduction in parasitemia in previously exposed mice compared to previously unexposed mice (P<0.001) regardless of the treatment regimen. When Lophira alata was combined with Artesunate, it significantly reduced parasitemia (P<0.0032) and prolonged survival (P=0.0109) compared to when Lophira alata was administered alone. These results suggest that the action of Lophira alata in treating malaria infections in a murine model is enhanced by prior exposure to the malaria parasite.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Lophira alata leaf extract
- decoctions
- methanolic extracts
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause significant health complications including gastrointestinal distress, skin irritation, and potential toxicity if ingested in large quantities. Consuming the plant often leads to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and severe stomach cramping. Topical contact with the leaves or stems may trigger allergic reactions characterized by redness, itching, and painful rashes. Some studies suggest that certain compounds within the plant could interfere with metabolic processes if used improperly. Careful avoidance is necessary to prevent these adverse physiological reactions.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Lophira alata?
This plant Lophira alatata pairs most effectively with peppermint, lemon balm, and lavender to enhance its subtle floral notes.
When used in herbal infusions, the addition of peppermint provides a cooling counterpoint to the plant's natural earthiness. Lemon balm introduces a bright citrus undertone that balances the more complex aromatic compounds found in the leaves. Lavender can be incorporated to create a deeply relaxing scent profile suitable for aromatherapy blends.
These combinations allow the unique properties of the species to shine while rounding out the sensory experience.