Maclura tricuspidata
What's the taxonomical classification of Maclura tricuspidata?
Maclurura tricuspidata belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. Following the taxonomic hierarchy further, it falls under the order Rosales and is a member of the family Moraceae. Finally, the plant is identified by its specific genus, Maclurura, and its unique species designation, tricuspidata.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Maclura |
| Species | tricuspidata |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Maclurura tricuspidata has a woody trunk with smooth, greyish bark and trifoliate leaves characterized by three distinctively pointed lobes. The leaves are typically leathery in texture and possess serrated margins that contribute to their sharp appearance. Small, yellowish-green flowers emerge from the leaf axils to facilitate pollination. Following flowering, the plant produces fleshy, globose drupes that turn from green to a yellowish or orange hue when mature. These fruits contain seeds that are essential for the reproductive cycle of the species.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, specifically found in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It typically inhabits lowland rainforest environments where moisture levels remain high throughout the year. Within these habitats, the species thrives in shaded areas and along riverbanks where the soil is rich and well-drained. Its distribution is primarily concentrated in maritime Southeast Asia due to the specific climatic requirements of the tropical monsoon and equatorial zones. Localized populations are often found in both primary forests and disturbed secondary growth areas.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant thrives in tropical environments requiring well-draining soil, consistent moisture, and partial to full sunlight for optimal growth.
It is best cultivated in humid climates where temperatures remain warm throughout the year. When planting, ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support its vigorous climbing habit. Regular watering is necessary to prevent the foliage from wilting, though the roots must not sit in stagnant water.
Pruning can be utilized to manage its size and encourage denser canopy development.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Maclurura tricuspidata provides medicinal value through its bark, fruit, leaf, root, and stem. The bark and stem are often utilized in traditional practices to treat various ailments or skin conditions. Extracts from the leaves are frequently prepared to address specific health concerns. The fruit and root also serve important roles in folk medicine depending on the local preparation methods. Together, these distinct parts form a comprehensive resource for herbal treatments.
According to a study published by "Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)", two novel parishin derivatives were identified from a twig of Maclurura tricuspidata. These two new compounds were elucidated as 1-(4-(β-d-glucopyranosyloxy)benzyl)-3-hydroxy-3-methylpentane-1,5-dioate, named macluraparishin E, and 1,3-bis(4-(β-d-glucopyranosyloxy)benzyl)-3-hydroxy-3-methylpentane-1,5-dioate, named macluraparishin C. The most abundant constituents in the MT twig were gastrodin, parishin A, parishin B, macluraparishin E, and macluraparishin C. The contents of parishin A, parishin B, macluraparishin C, and macluraparishin E were found to be higher in the twig, bark, and root than in the leaves, xylem, and fruit.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- bark
- fruit
- leaf
- root
- stem
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant Maclurura tricuspidata has been utilized by Indigenous Australian communities for centuries as a source of both medicinal treatment and practical resources.
The inner bark is frequently harvested to create traditional fiber for weaving tools and containers. Various parts of the tree are also employed in decoctions to address specific ailments such as skin irritations or digestive issues. Historically, the wood was valued for its durability in constructing implements and structural components.
These long-standing practices highlight the complex relationship between the species and the cultural heritage of its native regions.
What are the pharmacological activities of Maclura tricuspidata?
This plant has anti-invasive, anti-metastatic, anti-migratory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective pharmacological activities. Its chemical constituents work to suppress the movement and spread of cancer cells within biological systems. By inhibiting these cellular processes, the plant helps prevent the progression of malignant tumors. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help neutralize harmful free radicals that cause oxidative stress. These combined effects also contribute to neuroprotective benefits by shielding nerve cells from damage.
According to a study published by "International journal of nanomedicine", Maclurura tricuspidata is a traditional medicinal plant used for its biological activities. All four extracts from the root, stem, leaf, and fruit show high phenolic and flavonoid contents along with strong antioxidant and reducing capacities. When conjugated with gold nanoparticles, the stem and root extracts exhibit the highest anti-migratory and anti-invasive potential. These MT-GNPs work by decreasing the enzymatic activity and translation levels of MMP-9 and PLD1. Furthermore, the MTS-GNPs and MTR-GNPs can dramatically reverse the transforming growth factor-β-induced vimentin and N-cadherin upregulation and E-cadherin downregulation.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-invasive
- anti-metastatic
- anti-migratory
- antioxidant
- neuroprotective
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a variety of bioactive medicinal compounds including alkaloids, terpenoids, and isoflavones. These chemical constituents are often studied for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of isoflavones specifically suggests the plant may possess estrogenic activities or help regulate cellular health. Researchers examine these diverse phytochemicals to understand how they interact with biological systems. Such investigations aim to uncover new therapeutic applications for traditional herbal remedies.
According to a study published by "Scientific reports", seven pairs of enantiomeric isoflavones (1a/1b-7a/7b) were obtained from the ethyl acetate extract of the fruits of Maclurura tricuspidata. Compounds 1, 1a, and 1b exhibited neuroprotective activities against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (ODG/R)-induced SH-SY5Y cells death with EC50 values of 5.5 µM, 4.0 µM, and 10.0 µM, respectively. Additionally, these same compounds 1, 1a, and 1b inhibited OGG/R-induced reactive oxygen species generation in SH-5Y5Y cells. This inhibition was measured with IC50 values of 6.9 µM, 4.5 µM, and 9.5 µM, respectively.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- isoflavones
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating hepatocellular carcinoma by inducing programmed cell death in malignant liver cells. Its bioactive compounds work to suppress the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species generation within the cellular environment. By reducing oxidative stress, the plant helps stabilize cellular membranes and prevent further tissue damage. These mechanisms collectively target the progression of liver cancer at a molecular level. Consequently, the phytochemicals in Maclura tricuspidata serve as potent agents against tumor development.
According to a study published by "Scientific reports", the fruits of Maclurura tricuspidata contain seven pairs of enantiomeric isoflavones used for neuroprotective activities. Specifically, compounds 1, 1a, and 1b exhibited neuroprotective activities against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R)-induced SH-SY5Y cells death. These compounds showed EC50 values of 5.5 µM, 4.0 µM, and 10.0 µM, respectively. Additionally, 1, 1a, and 1b inhibited OGD/R-induced reactive oxygen species generation in SH-5Y5Y cells. This inhibition was recorded with IC50 values of 6.9 µM, 4.5 µM, and 9.5 µM, respectively.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- cell death
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- reactive oxygen species generation
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Maclurura tricuspidata, a species used to create various medicinal herbal preparations that target inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Researchers often focus on the ethyl acetate extract to isolate specific bioactive compounds from the plant's tissues. These preparations are frequently studied for their ability to inhibit certain pathogens and reduce swelling in biological models. Beyond extracts, other traditional methods may involve using the plant in decoctions or topical applications. This diverse range of preparations highlights the pharmacological potential inherent in its chemical constituents.
According to a study published by "Scientific reports", seven pairs of enantiomeric isoflavones (1a/1b-7a/7b) were obtained from the ethyl acetate extract of the fruits of Maclura tricuspidata. These compounds exhibited neuroprotective activities against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (ODG/R)-induced SH-SY5Y cells death. Specifically, compounds 1, 1a, and 1b showed EC50 values of 5.5 µM, 4.0 µM, and 10.0 µM, respectively. Additionally, these substances inhibited OG-induced reactive oxygen species generation in SH-5Y5Y cells. For this inhibition, compounds 1, 1a, and 1b had IC50 values of 6.9 µM, 4.5 µM, and 9.5 µM, respectively.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- ethyl acetate extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal irritation when ingested, as well as skin irritation upon direct contact. The toxic compounds within the plant's tissues frequently lead to severe distress within the digestive tract. Individuals who accidentally consume parts of the plant may experience intense stomach cramping and purging. Contact with the sap or leaves can also trigger localized redness and inflammation on the skin. These adverse reactions highlight the necessity of avoiding all parts of the plant to prevent physical harm.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal irritation
- Skin irritation
What herbs are paired with Maclura tricuspidata?
This plant, Maclurura tricuspidata, is frequently paired with ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass in traditional herbal preparations to balance its bitter properties.
These aromatic roots and grasses work together to enhance the digestive benefits often associated with the tree's fruit and bark. In many regional medicinal practices, adding citrus-based herbs helps to mask the strong, astringent flavor profile of the plant. This combination is often used in decoctions meant to support metabolic health or soothe gastrointestinal discomfort.
Integrating these specific botanical partners creates a more palatable and synergistic infusion for therapeutic use.