Matayba oppositifolia
Matayba oppositifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Matayba oppositifolia is a significant medicinal plant known for its diverse therapeutic applications in traditional medicine. Research has specifically focused on the biological activities found within its methanol bark extracts. These extracts have demonstrated promising potential in addressing various health concerns, including the management of diarrhea. Furthermore, the plant shows efficacy in combating various infectious diseases through its bioactive compounds. Understanding these properties provides valuable insight into its role as a natural pharmacological resource.
- Synonyms
- Cupania Oppositifolia · Matayba Apetala Subsp. Oppositifolia · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Matayba oppositifolia is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional names across different Caribbean cultures. In many areas, it is simply known as Bois de graines, though in Haiti, it is more specifically referred to as Bois graines noires. The species also carries the name Coby wood within the local vocabulary of Jamaica. Travelers and botanists may encounter it called Doncella in certain territories. Finally, in Cuba, this distinctive plant is widely identified by the name Macurije.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Matayba oppositifolia is a botanical species that is recognized through several different scientific names. It is formally documented under the synonym Cupania oppositifolia in various taxonomic records. Furthermore, the plant is identified as Matayba apetala f. oppositifolia within certain classifications. It is also closely associated with the synonym Matayba apetala subsp. oppositifolia. Understanding these varying names is essential for accurate identification and study within the field of botany.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Matayba oppositifolia is a fascinating biological specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Sapindales, which places it in a distinct evolutionary lineage. The plant is further nested within the family Sapindaceae, showcasing its unique botanical characteristics. Ultimately, it finds its specific identity as a member of the genus Matayba.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Matayba |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Matayba oppositifolia displays a broad and diverse geographical range that spans across several major regions. In North America, its presence is particularly noted throughout various sections of Mexico, including the Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest. The plant also extends its reach into the Gulf of Mexico, establishing a foothold in those coastal environments. Moving southward, its distribution continues into South America and the Caribbean islands. Specifically, it can be found flourishing within the unique ecosystems of Cuba.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Matayba oppositifolia is a robust species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This plant is naturally self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its structural integrity as it matures.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Matayba oppositifolia is utilized in traditional Mayan medicine to treat diarrhea and canker. Research indicates that its bark extracts possess antimicrobial activity against both drug-susceptible and drug-resistant ESKAPE-E pathogens. Specifically, the n-hexane extract demonstrates significant effectiveness against the superbug A. baumannii. Furthermore, the plant shows strong potential in treating carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae. These findings support the medicinal use of the plant for combating various infectious diseases and resistant microbes.
Preparations
Matayba oppositifolia is prepared as MeOH bark extracts to evaluate its medicinal potential. These specific methanol-based bark extracts demonstrated significant anti-Staphylococcus aureus activity during the study. The research identified this preparation among the most active extracts for combating bacterial growth. Furthermore, the plant's extracts were tested for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation. This methodology highlights the importance of using methanol to extract bioactive compounds from the bark of Matayba oppositifolia.