Milicia excelsa
Milicia excelsa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Milicia excelsa is a significant botanical species recognized for its diverse medicinal properties and chemical composition. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as chlorophorin and iron, which contribute to its therapeutic potential. When prepared as a root aqueous extract, it serves as a traditional remedy for various health concerns. Specifically, this preparation is utilized to combat bacterial infections and fungal infections. Furthermore, it has shown efficacy in addressing ailments caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
- Synonyms
- Chlorophora Excelsa · Chlorophora Alba · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Moraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Milicia excelsa is a significant timber species known by many different names across the African continent. It is most frequently recognized by its common name, African Teak, due to the high quality of its wood. In various regions, the tree is also widely referred to as Iroko. Some local populations identify the plant as Muvule, highlighting its cultural importance. Additionally, it is known by the name N'ghunda, reflecting the diverse linguistic heritage associated with this majestic species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Milicia excelsa is a botanical species that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. Within taxonomic literature, it is frequently documented under the synonyms Chlorophora alba and Chlorophora excelsa. The plant is also recognized through the nomenclature of Chlorophora tenuifolia and Maclura excelsa. Furthermore, researchers may encounter it listed as Milicia africana in various botanical records. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for ensuring accurate identification and consistent communication within the scientific community.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Milicia excelsa is a remarkable biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Rosales, showcasing its unique evolutionary placement. This plant is a member of the genus Milicia, which helps distinguish its specific characteristics. Finally, its taxonomic journey concludes within the family Moraceae, linking it to a diverse group of related vegetation.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Milicia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Milicia excelsa is a significant species widely distributed across several key regions of the African continent. It can be found throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant also extends its reach into Northeast Tropical Africa, establishing a presence in Ethiopia. Furthermore, its range includes the vast territories of Sudan and South Sudan. This broad distribution highlights the ecological importance of the species across diverse African landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Milicia excelsa is a prominent tree species characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This impressive botanical specimen can reach a significant height of up to 42 meters in many environments. However, under optimal conditions, it has the potential to soar even higher, reaching a maximum stature of approximately 48.77 meters. Such grand dimensions make it a commanding presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Milicia excelsa serves as a significant specimen in both pharmacological and nutritional studies. Research indicates that this plant contains the compound chlorophorin, which has demonstrated potent anti-protozoal activity against Entamoeba histolytica. Furthermore, the species is recognized for its medicinal value in treating anaemia due to its iron content. Investigations into the ethnomedicine of Côte d'Ivoire have confirmed that Milicia excelsa is one of the plants utilized to combat iron deficiency. Consequently, the plant holds dual importance as both a potential source of bioactive agents and a nutritional resource.
Conditions
Milicia excelsa, also known as Chlorophora excelsa, is a versatile medicinal plant used to manage various health conditions. It is utilized by indigenous populations to treat the symptoms of COVID-19. The plant contains compounds like Iroko that demonstrate anti-protozoal activity against Entamoeba histolytica. Furthermore, its presence in traditional medicine supports the treatment of anaemia due to its iron content. Finally, derivatives from this species show potential as safe control agents for both bacterial and fungal infections.
Preparations
Milicia excelsa is prepared as a root aqueous extract to investigate its potential emmenagogue properties and effects on sexual maturation. This specific preparation was administered orally to immature female Wistar rats at various dosages to evaluate its impact on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. The resulting root aqueous extract demonstrated the ability to increase serum levels of FSH and estradiol, mimicking the effects of genistein. By enhancing these hormonal levels, the extract successfully accelerated the sexual maturation process in the experimental subjects. Ultimately, the study suggests that this aqueous preparation of the root may help address amenorrhea by synchronizing ovarian hormone production.