Morus macroura
Morus macroura · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Morus macroura is a significant botanical species known for its diverse medicinal properties and unique chemical profile. The plant contains valuable bioactive compounds, including oxyresveratrol, mulberroside C, butyrospermol acetate, and alpha-amyrin acetate. Various parts of the plant, such as the leaves, roots, and stems, are utilized for their therapeutic potential. Common medicinal preparations derived from this species include the use of bark, leaves, root bark, and stem bark. Understanding these components is essential for exploring the plant's full pharmacological utility.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Moraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Morus macroura is a distinctive plant known by a wide variety of regional and descriptive names. In certain areas, it is affectionately referred to as Andalas or Dâu quả dài. It also carries the evocative title of Himalayan Mulberry, highlighting its natural origins. Many enthusiasts recognize the species as the King White Mulberry due to its impressive characteristics. Finally, it is frequently identified simply as the Long Mulberry, reflecting its unique fruit shape.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Morus macroura is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Rosales to find its specific place in nature. This species is a distinguished member of the genus Morus, which defines its core characteristics. Ultimately, it resides within the Moraceae family, marking its botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Morus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Morus macroura exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across several distinct regions of Asia. In temperate zones, the species is widely distributed throughout China, including the South-Central, Southeast, and Tibet regions. Its reach extends into tropical environments as well, specifically within the Indian Subcontinent. Within these tropical areas, the plant is notably found in Assam and Bangladesh. This broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to both temperate and tropical climates across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Morus macroura is a distinctive species characterized by its robust shrub growth form. This plant is entirely self-supporting, allowing it to maintain its structural integrity as it matures. Depending on its environment, the species typically reaches a minimum height of 7 meters. Some specimens may start at a more modest 9.5 meters, while others continue to climb toward a much larger stature. Ultimately, the height of this plant can reach a maximum of 12 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Morus macroura serves as a rich source of diverse chemical constituents found within both its bark and wood. Detailed chemical analyses have identified specific compounds in the bark, including butyrospermol acetate and alpha-amyrin acetate. Furthermore, the wood of the plant contains important bioactive molecules such as the 2-arylbenzofuran glycoside mulberroside C and the known stilbene oxyresveratrol. Researchers have also isolated a new stilbene dimer from the wood known as andalasin A. These various phytochemicals highlight the complex chemical profile inherent to this plant species.
Conditions
Morus macroura demonstrates significant potential in the management of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by alleviating the loss of cognitive function and improving learning ability. Specifically, the plant has been shown to treat LPS-induced AD in mice by reducing brain TNF-α levels. Its neuroprotective effects include the ability to restore acetylcholine esterase (AChE) levels to normal. Beyond its neurological benefits, components isolated from the wood of the plant exhibit moderate antifungal properties. Additionally, the plant shows weak antinematodal activity through compounds such as andalasin A.
Preparations
Morus macroura is utilized in various forms, including the preparation of its bark to study specific chemical constituents. The plant's leaves serve as a primary source for obtaining important arylbenzofuran derivatives like moracins. Furthermore, the root bark of this species is identified as a key component in the production of bioactive compounds. The stem bark is also a significant part of the plant used to extract medicinal derivatives. These diverse preparations of Morus macroura highlight its botanical importance in medicinal chemistry and drug development.
Parts used
Morus macroura serves as a significant botanical source for various bioactive benzofuran derivatives known as moracins. Researchers have identified that the plant's medicinal potential is concentrated within several key anatomical structures. Specifically, the leaves of the species are utilized as a primary source for these important chemical compounds. Furthermore, the stem and the root also play critical roles in providing the necessary arylbenzofuran nuclei. By studying these specific plant parts, scientists continue to advance the development of new pharmacological treatments.