Mitragyna rotundifolia
Mitragyna rotundifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Mitragyna rotundifolia is a tropical plant primarily known for its bioactive bark. This botanical species contains a complex profile of chemical constituents, including beta-sitosterol and dauricine. Other notable compounds found within its structure are gambireine and gambirine. Researchers and herbalists often utilize the bark to create various specialized preparations. One common method for processing this plant is through the creation of an EtOH extract.
- Synonyms
- Nauclea Brunonis · Nauclea Rotundifolia · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Mitragyna rotundifolia is a botanical species widely recognized by its local Thai name, กระทุ่มเนิน. This plant belongs to a fascinating group of tropical shrubs that thrive in specific environmental niches. Understanding its common nomenclature helps researchers and locals alike identify its unique characteristics in the wild. By connecting scientific classification with traditional naming conventions, we gain a deeper appreciation for its ecological role. Such relationships between language and nature are essential for documenting global biodiversity.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Mitragyna rotundifolia is a plant species that is frequently identified by several different botanical names. Due to historical taxonomic shifts, it is recognized by the synonym Mitragyna brunonis in various scientific records. It has also been classified under the name Nauclea brunonis, reflecting different perspectives on its lineage. Furthermore, the plant is linked to the synonym Nauclea rotundifolia within certain botanical databases. Understanding these various naming conventions is essential for accurate identification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Mitragyna rotundifolia is a distinctive species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Gentianales, showcasing its specific evolutionary path. It also falls under the specialized genus Mitragyna, which defines its closest botanical relatives. Ultimately, this species is a proud member of the Rubiaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Mitragyna |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Mitragyna rotundifolia exhibits a widespread geographic presence across several diverse regions of Asia. Its range extends through the temperate landscapes of China, specifically within the South-Central provinces. Moving into tropical climates, the species is commonly found throughout the Indian Subcontinent, including Assam, Bangladesh, and the East Himalaya. Additionally, its distribution reaches into the Indo-China region, encompassing the Andaman Islands. This broad ecological footprint highlights the plant's ability to thrive in both temperate and tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Mitragyna rotundifolia develops into a robust tree as it matures. This species is characterized by a self-supporting growth form that allows it to stand firmly in its environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Mitragyna rotundifolia serves as a rich source of diverse chemical constituents identified through the analysis of its bark extract. Research has successfully isolated several key compounds from this plant, including the sterols beta-sitosterol and taraxerol. Additionally, the chemical profile of the species is characterized by the presence of the alkaloid dauricine. The extraction process also revealed the presence of related compounds such as gambirine and gambireine. These findings represent a significant step in understanding the complex phytochemical makeup of this specific genus.
Conditions
Preparations
Mitragyna rotundifolia is prepared as bark to facilitate the study of its various chemical constituents. Research indicates that the bark of this plant serves as the primary source for isolating unique organic compounds. Additionally, Mitragyna rotundifolia is prepared as an EtOH extract to allow for the separation of EtOAc-soluble and ButOH-soluble portions. These specific preparation methods enable scientists to identify complex substances like dauricine and various quinovic acid triterpenoid saponins. Consequently, both the bark and the ethanol extract are essential forms used in the phytochemical analysis of the species.