Ochna afzelii
Ochna afzelii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ochna afzelii is a plant species that has gained scientific interest due to its significant antimicrobial activities. Research focusing on the methanol extracts of its stem bark has revealed the presence of key chemical compounds such as 4',5,7-Trimethoxyisoflavone, 4',5-dimethoxy-6,7-methylenedioxyisoflavone, Afzelone C, and Lanceoloside A. These bioactive constituents demonstrate promising potential in combating various pathogenic microorganisms. Specifically, studies have evaluated the plant's efficacy against challenging conditions including Candida albicans, Enterococcus hirae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Tuberculosis. Consequently, the stem of Ochna afzelii serves as a valuable source for developing new therapeutic agents.
- Synonyms
- Diporidium Afzelii · Polyochnella Buechneri · 21 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Ochnaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Ochna afzelii is a distinctive botanical species known by the common name أوكنة أفزلية. This plant belongs to a fascinating genus that often showcases vibrant colors and unique structural features. Throughout its natural habitat, it plays an essential role in the local ecosystem by supporting various pollinators. Understanding its growth patterns and environmental requirements is crucial for anyone interested in tropical flora. Collectors and researchers alike value this species for its striking presence and biological significance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Ochna afzelii is a complex botanical species characterized by several recognized taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, it is frequently associated with the names Diporidium afzelii and Diporidium mechowianum. The plant's diversity is further reflected in its subspecies, specifically Ochna afzelii subsp. congoensis and Ochna afzelii subsp. mechowiana. Additionally, the name Ochna barteri is listed as a synonym, highlighting the shifting classifications of this taxon. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate identification in the field.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ochna afzelii is a distinguished member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This species belongs to the specific order Malpighiales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It is further organized into the family Ochnaceae, which defines its botanical characteristics. Ultimately, it resides within the genus Ochna, marking its place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Ochnaceae |
| Genus | Ochna |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ochna afzelii is a notable plant species with a diverse distribution spanning several regions across the African continent. Its presence is firmly established in East Tropical Africa, where it can be found within the landscapes of both Tanzania and Uganda. Moving toward the northeast, the species also inhabits the tropical territories of Chad and the Sudan-South Sudan border region. Furthermore, its range extends southward into the tropical environments of Angola. This broad geographical spread highlights the plant's ability to thrive across varied African ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ochna afzelii is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a sturdy tree. It is capable of reaching a significant stature, with a maximum height of approximately 12.19 meters. This impressive growth habit allows it to stand prominently within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Ochna afzelii is one of several medicinal plant species from Cameroon investigated for its potential therapeutic properties. In a recent study, methanol extracts of this plant were tested against various microorganisms using disc-diffusion assays. The research demonstrated that the extract possesses measurable antimicrobial activity against at least one species of microorganism. While the study noted a lack of efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria, the plant still showed significant biological potential. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of the traditional medicinal resources available within the region.
Compounds
Ochna afzelii serves as a rich source of diverse chemical compounds found within its stem bark. Through the fractionation of methanolic extracts, researchers have successfully identified several significant secondary metabolites. Specifically, the plant contains the flavonoid known as afzelone C. Additionally, studies have confirmed the presence of the glucoside lanceoloside A within its composition. These findings highlight the complex biochemical profile inherent to this particular species.
Conditions
Ochna afzelii demonstrates significant antimicrobial properties by treating the yeast species Candida albicans. The plant's methanol extract also shows effectiveness in treating the bacterium Enterococcus hirae. Beyond direct microbial action, it serves as a bioactive agent that can treat specific beta-lactamase enzymes, including OXA-10. Furthermore, the plant exhibits the ability to treat the P99 beta-lactamase enzyme. Finally, Ochna afzelii is capable of treating the bacterial strain S. epidermidis.
Preparations
Ochna afzelii is prepared as extracts to evaluate its potential for beta-lactamase inhibition. Specifically, the plant is prepared as a methanol extract to test its in-vitro antimicrobial activities against various microorganisms. Research also indicates that Ochna afzelii is prepared as stem bark for the isolation of biflavonoids. These different preparation methods allow for the study of the plant's diverse bioactive properties. Consequently, the stem bark and methanol extracts serve as critical components for pharmacological investigations.
Parts used
Ochna afzelii is a plant species that contains a significant stem component used for chemical analysis. Scientific investigations have focused specifically on the stem bark to isolate various bioactive compounds. Through the fractionation of methanolic extracts, researchers have successfully identified several unique biflavonoids, including the new compounds afzelones A and B. In addition to these, the stem bark provides a variety of known flavonoids such as calodenins A and B. These chemical structures were precisely established using rigorous spectroscopic and chemical evidence.