Minquartia guianensis
Minquartia guianensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Minquartia guianensis is a remarkable tropical tree species recognized for its diverse therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Scientific investigations have focused on its ability to combat serious parasitic infections, specifically targeting Leishmaniasis and Malaria. To harness these bioactive properties, researchers frequently utilize hydro-alcoholic extractions to isolate key medicinal compounds. These specialized preparations allow for a more effective concentration of the plant's natural chemical constituents. Consequently, this species remains a subject of significant interest for developing new pharmacological treatments.
- Synonyms
- Endusa Punctata · Minquartia Punctata · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Olacaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Minquartia guianensis is a remarkable tree species known by a diverse array of regional names. Among its many common monikers, it is frequently referred to as Acapú or Acari. In certain areas, the plant is also recognized by the name Acariguara. Another common variation used to identify this species is Acariquara. Finally, it is sometimes specifically distinguished as Acariquara-roxa depending on the local context.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Minquartia guianensis is a botanical species that has been identified through various taxonomic classifications over time. In scientific literature, this plant is frequently associated with several synonyms, including Eganthus poeppigii and Endusa punctata. Researchers also recognize it under the names Minquartia macrophylla and Minquartia parvifolia. Furthermore, the name Minquartia punctata serves as another recognized synonym within its complex botanical history. Understanding these diverse naming conventions is essential for accurately tracking the species across different studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Minquartia guianensis is a remarkable botanical specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls into the order Santalales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, it is a member of the Olacaceae family, which defines its specific structural characteristics. Ultimately, this species is distinguished by its placement within the genus Minquartia.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Olacaceae |
| Genus | Minquartia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Minquartia guianensis maintains a widespread presence throughout much of Southern and Central America. Within Brazil, the species is highly distributed, appearing in the North, Northeast, and West-Central regions. Its range extends northward into Central America, where it can be found growing in the landscapes of Costa Rica. Additionally, the plant is well-established within the borders of Honduras. This broad geographic reach highlights the adaptability of the species across diverse tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Minquartia guianensis is a robust, self-supporting tree that plays a significant role in its natural ecosystem. This species exhibits a versatile growth form, allowing it to establish a strong presence within the forest canopy. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the tree typically reaches a height of up to 20 meters. However, under optimal circumstances, it can grow even larger, achieving a maximum height of 30 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Minquartia guianensis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential in treating both leishmaniasis and malaria. In studies focused on traditional Ecuadorian medicine, this plant species showed measurable anti-protozoal activity against Leishmania donovani. Furthermore, research conducted among native populations in the Peruvian Amazon identified the plant as a source of effective antimalarial properties. Specifically, extracts from the species displayed interesting antiplasmodial activity against the Plasmodium falciparum strain. These findings provide scientific validation for the traditional use of Minquartia guianensis in managing these two distinct parasitic diseases.
Preparations
Minquartia guianensis is prepared as a hydro-alcoholic extraction to evaluate its medicinal properties. This specific preparation was part of a study involving 35 extracts derived from the most cited plants used by native populations for malaria treatment. Researchers tested these hydro-alcoholic extracts against the Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistant strain. The results demonstrated that the extract of Minquartia guianensis displayed interesting antiplasmodial activity. This method of preparation helped provide scientific validation for the traditional use of the plant in the Loreto region.