Maytenus macrocarpa
Maytenus macrocarpa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (5 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Maytenus macrocarpa is a versatile medicinal plant utilized for its diverse pharmacological activities, including cytotoxic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antiviral properties. The therapeutic potential of this species is driven by key chemical constituents such as 3-oxo-29-hydroxyfriedelane, canophyllol, and friedelin. Various parts of the plant, specifically the roots, stems, and leaves, serve as primary sources for medicinal preparations. Researchers often utilize ethanol extracts of the root bark, stem bark exudates, and general ethanol extracts to harness these bioactive compounds. Consequently, these preparations are applied to treat various health conditions, ranging from bronchitis and rheumatism to diarrhea and wound healing.
- Synonyms
- Celastrus Macrocarpus · Monteverdia Macrocarpa · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Celastraceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root · Stem
Classification
Synonyms
Maytenus macrocarpa is a complex botanical subject that has been classified under several different names throughout scientific history. Its taxonomic identity is closely linked to various synonyms, including the designation Celastrus macrocarpus. Researchers also recognize the plant under the name Haenkea multiflora depending on the specific study. Furthermore, its nomenclature has been historically associated with Maytenus krukovii and Maytenus multiflora. Finally, the species is also documented in botanical records as Maytenus tarapotensis.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Maytenus macrocarpa is a unique botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It specifically falls into the order Celastrales, showcasing its specialized evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, the species is a proud member of the Celastraceae family. Ultimately, it is defined by its placement within the genus Maytenus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Maytenus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Maytenus macrocarpa is a notable plant species widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of Southern America. Its presence is firmly established in Brazil, spanning both central and northern regions of the country. The species also extends into Northern South America, where it can be found throughout Venezuela. Moving toward the west, the plant populates significant portions of the continent, including Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador. This broad geographical range highlights the adaptability of the species within various South American ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Maytenus macrocarpa is a self-supporting plant that typically takes the form of a tree. This species exhibits significant structural versatility, with individual specimens reaching a minimum height of 5 meters. As these trees mature, they can grow to reach an impressive maximum height of 20 meters. Such substantial growth allows the species to establish a prominent presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Maytenus macrocarpa is an Amazonian tree that holds significant promise for pharmacological development due to its diverse biological properties. Research indicates that extracts and pure compounds derived from its roots, leaves, and bark exhibit notable antibacterial and antiviral activities. Furthermore, the plant has demonstrated effective antiparasitic qualities in various in vitro studies. The presence of specific nor-triterpenes, such as Macrocarpins A-D, also highlights its potent cytotoxic effects against several tumoral cell lines. These findings underscore the potential of this traditional medicinal species as a valuable source of new ethnopharmaceuticals.
Compounds
Maytenus macrocarpa is an Amazonian medicinal tree known to be a rich source of various bioactive secondary metabolites. Scientific investigations into its stem bark exudates have successfully isolated a specific set of friedelane triterpenoids. Among these identified chemical constituents are the known compounds friedelin and canophyllol. Additionally, researchers have confirmed the presence of 3-oxo-29-hydroxyfriedelane within the plant's chemical profile. Ultimately, these findings highlight the significant presence of diverse triterpenes within the species.
Conditions
Maytenus macrocarpa is utilized in traditional medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, most notably rheumatism. This Amazonian tree is also employed to combat bronchitis and diarrhea. Furthermore, its various parts are used to help heal wounds. The plant is recognized for its ability to treat conditions that are likely to be associated with microorganisms due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties.
Preparations
Maytenus macrocarpa is prepared as ethanol extracts of the root bark to evaluate its antimicrobial effectiveness against various bacteria and yeast. This plant is also prepared as ethanol extracts to screen for antibacterial properties among medicinal species used in the Callería District. Additionally, Maytenus macrocarpa is prepared as stem bark exudates for the isolation of friedelane triterpenoids. These specific preparations allow researchers to study the plant's chemical components, such as friedelin and new friedelan triterpenes. Through these diverse extraction methods, the biological and chemical profile of the species can be thoroughly investigated.
Parts used
Maytenus macrocarpa is a medicinal tree native to the Amazon that contains various bioactive components distributed throughout its structure. Research indicates that the plant's roots serve as a significant source of nor-triterpenes with notable cytotoxic properties. Additionally, the stem, particularly the bark and its exudates, provides a variety of triterpenoids and exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects. The leaves also play a crucial role in the plant's therapeutic profile, contributing to its diverse pharmacological activities. Together, these different parts make the species a highly valuable resource for traditional and modern ethnopharmacology.