Ocotea odorifera
Ocotea odorifera · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ocotea odorifera is a botanical species widely recognized for the diverse therapeutic potential found within its leaves and branches. Researchers have focused on various preparations, including crude methanol extracts, essential oils, leaf decoctions, and specific chemical fractions. These studies highlight the plant's significant biological activities, most notably its antifungal, antimalarial, and antimicrobial properties. The presence of key bioactive compounds, such as ellagitannin and S-(+)-reticuline, plays a crucial role in these medicinal effects. Consequently, this plant shows great promise in treating various health conditions, particularly dermatosis and malaria.
- Synonyms
- Mespilodaphne Pretiosa Var. Latifolia · Mespilodaphne Pretiosa Var. Longifolia · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Synonyms
Ocotea odorifera is a botanical subject characterized by a complex history of taxonomic nomenclature. Throughout various scientific classifications, this plant has been identified by several different synonyms, including Aydendron suaveolens and Laurus camelilla. It has also been documented under the name Laurus odorifera in older literature. Furthermore, the species is linked to specific varieties of Mespilodaphne pretiosa, specifically the latifolia and longifolia varieties. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate botanical identification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Ocotea odorifera is a fascinating species that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is a distinguished member of the order Laurales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. It further resides within the family Lauraceae, a group known for many aromatic plants. Finally, this species is defined by its placement in the genus Ocotea, completing its botanical identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Ocotea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ocotea odorifera is a plant species with a significant presence throughout various regions of South America. Its distribution is particularly concentrated within Brazil, where it thrives across several distinct geographical areas. Specifically, the species can be found spreading through the Northeast portion of the country. Furthermore, it maintains a stable presence in the Southern territories of Brazil. The plant also extends its reach into the Southeast, showcasing a wide ecological range within the nation.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ocotea odorifera is a self-supporting tree that plays a distinct role in its ecosystem. This species typically achieves a height of up to 17 meters as it matures. However, under certain environmental conditions, it can reach a maximum height of 20 meters. Its sturdy growth form allows it to stand firmly within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Ocotea odorifera, commonly known in Brazil as "canela-sassafrás," serves as a versatile medicinal plant with a diverse range of biological activities. Research into its chemical constituents has identified potent antifungal properties, specifically through compounds like Tellimagrandin II which inhibits Candida parapsilosis. Beyond fungal defense, ethnobotanical studies have highlighted its traditional significance as an antimalarial remedy used in Brazilian medicine. Furthermore, microbiological screenings have confirmed that the plant possesses broader antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms. These combined findings provide a scientific basis for the traditional use of the species and suggest its potential in future drug development.
Compounds
Ocotea odorifera, a medicinal plant popularly known in Brazil as "canela-sassafrás," serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds. Research has successfully isolated the ellagitannin Tellimagrandin II from the leaves of this species through successive chromatographic separation. This specific compound has demonstrated potent antifungal activity, particularly against the yeast strain Candida parapsilosis. Furthermore, the study highlights that this ellagitannin can act synergistically with common antifungal medications like fluconazole and amphotericin. Because the extract shows low cytotoxicity and no mutagenic effects, these findings provide a strong scientific basis for its traditional use in treating dermatosis.
Conditions
Ocotea odorifera is a medicinal plant traditionally recognized in Brazil for its ability to treat dermatosis. Research into its leaves has identified ellagitannins like Tellimagrandin II that demonstrate potent antifungal activity against yeast. Beyond its topical uses, this species is also documented in ethnobotanical studies as a plant used to treat malaria. These dual therapeutic roles highlight the plant's significance in traditional Brazilian medicine for both skin conditions and parasitic infections. Consequently, its various biological properties offer a valid basis for the potential development of new pharmaceutical drugs.
Preparations
Ocotea odorifera is prepared as a crude methanol extract to evaluate its antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms. For investigating anti-inflammatory properties, the plant is prepared as essential oils from leaves and branches. Researchers also utilize Ocotea odorifera prepared as fractions, including hydroethanolic, ethyl acetate, and chloroform versions, to study specific active compounds. Additionally, the species is prepared as a leaf decoction, which has been shown to demonstrate promissory effects on ear oedema and neutrophil recruitment. Finally, the plant is prepared as a leaf extract to facilitate the identification of key substances like S-(+)-reticuline through metabolomic approaches.
Parts used
Ocotea odorifera is a medicinal plant widely recognized in Brazil as "canela-sassafrás" for its traditional use in treating dermatosis. Researchers have focused on the specific bioactive properties found within the leaf of this species to explore new therapeutic possibilities. By utilizing a methanol extract from the leaves, scientists successfully isolated the ellagitannin compound known as Tellimagrandin II. This particular substance demonstrated potent antifungal activity against the yeast strain Candida parapsilosis. Ultimately, the study suggests that the chemical components within the leaves provide a scientific basis for the plant's medicinal reputation and could aid in future drug development.