Olax mannii
Olax mannii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Olax mannii is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique physiological characteristics. Researchers frequently focus on the plant's leaf as a primary source of bioactive compounds. Through various scientific methods, a concentrated leaf extract is prepared to study its potential properties. This specific preparation serves as a vital tool in exploring the plant's chemical composition. Understanding these extracts is essential for uncovering the therapeutic possibilities held within this species.
- Synonyms
- Olax Major · Olax Insculpta · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Olacaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Synonyms
Olax mannii is a botanical species that has been identified through various taxonomic classifications over time. Due to historical shifts in botanical nomenclature, several names have been recognized as synonyms for this plant. These include the previously documented Olax insculpta and Olax longiflora. Additionally, researchers have linked the species to the names Olax macrocalyx and Olax major. The taxonomic history of the plant is further enriched by its association with the synonym Olax zenkeri.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Olax mannii is a distinct biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Santalales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Olax, it exhibits unique characteristics shared by its close relatives. Finally, this plant is firmly situated within the Olacaceae family, completing its scientific taxonomic profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Olacaceae |
| Genus | Olax |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Olax mannii is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the diverse landscapes of West and West-Central Tropical Africa. Its presence is well-documented in several West African nations, including Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Moving toward the central regions of the continent, the species also flourishes within the tropical environments of Cameroon. Furthermore, its geographical reach extends into the Congo, highlighting its adaptability to different African habitats. This widespread distribution underscores the significant ecological role the plant plays across the tropical belt of the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Olax mannii is a shrubby species characterized by its distinct growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 2.13 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Olax mannii is prepared as a methanol leaf extract to facilitate the study of its chemical constituents. This specific leaf extract underwent various chromatographic separations to isolate several novel flavonoid glycosides. Through this preparation process, researchers successfully identified three new flavonoid triglycosides along with fourteen known compounds. The resulting extract serves as a critical medium for assessing the plant's ability to inhibit the NF-κB pathway. Ultimately, the efficacy of this Olax mannii leaf extract supports its traditional use in managing cancer and inflammation.
Parts used
Olax mannii is a significant medicinal plant utilized in Nigerian ethnomedicine for managing inflammation and cancer. Recent scientific investigations have focused specifically on the plant's leaves to uncover their therapeutic potential. These leaves serve as a rich source of novel flavonoid glycosides, which are the primary constituents being studied. By analyzing methanol extracts from the leaf material, researchers successfully isolated several unique flavonoid triglycosides. The presence of these specific compounds in the leaves may explain the plant's traditional efficacy in treating malignant disorders.