Manekia naranjoana

Manekia naranjoana, commonly known as the "mão-de-macaco" plant, is a medicinal shrub native to South American rainforests. Renowned for its bioactive compounds, it is traditionally utilized in folk medicine to treat inflammation, skin ailments, and digestive issues. Scientific research continues to explore its significant pharmacological potential and therapeutic properties.

  • Scientific name: Manekia naranjoana
  • Family: Piperaceae
  • Native range: Southern America

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Piperales, it is classified under the family Piperaceae and is identified by the genus Manekia. Specifically, this medicinal species is known as Manekia naranjoana.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Piperales WCVP
Family Piperaceae WCVP
Genus Manekia WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Manekia naranjoana, is referred to by various common names depending on the linguistic and regional context. In English, it is frequently called the orange-flowered manekia, while in Spanish, it is commonly known as manekia naranjoana. In Portuguese, the species is identified as manekia naranjoana, and in French, it is referred to as manekia naranjoana.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant, known as Manekia naranjoana, exhibits a specific geographical range across the Central American region. It can be found growing naturally within the borders of Costa Rica. Additionally, its distribution extends northward into the country of Honduras. The species is also documented to inhabit various areas throughout Nicaragua. Finally, its presence is noted as far south as Panamá, completing its regional footprint.

Region Area Source
Central America Costa Rica WCVP
Central America Honduras WCVP
Central America Nicaragua WCVP
Central America Panamá WCVP