Pentadesma butyracea
Pentadesma butyracea · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pentadesma butyracea is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse range of pharmacological activities. Research highlights the plant's potential therapeutic benefits, specifically its anticancer, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial properties. Studies have identified key bioactive chemicals within the plant, most notably the triterpene known as lupeol. Most medicinal investigations focus on the stem, utilizing various forms such as the stem bark and specialized extracts. Consequently, bark decoctions are frequently prepared to harness these potent cytotoxic and healing effects.
- Synonyms
- Pentadesma Leptonema Var. Klainei · Pentadesma Parviflora · 6 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Clusiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Pentadesma butyracea is a versatile plant known by several distinct names across different regions and languages. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently referred to by its common name, the Buttertree. Its French counterparts include the descriptive terms arbre à beurre and arbre à chandelle. Local vernacular also plays a significant role in its identity, with various cultures calling it kanya or lami. These diverse names highlight the widespread recognition and cultural importance of this unique species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pentadesma butyracea is a complex botanical species that is associated with several scientific synonyms. Taxonomists have identified various names for this plant, including Pentadesma kerstingii and Pentadesma lecomteana. Its classification also encompasses Pentadesma leptonema, as well as the specific variety Pentadesma leptonema var. klainei. Furthermore, the name Pentadesma leucantha is recognized as another synonym within its botanical history. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pentadesma butyracea is a fascinating botanical specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this diverse group, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides within the order Malpighiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Pentadesma, it maintains a distinct morphological identity. Finally, this plant is categorized under the family Clusiaceae, completing its scientific taxonomic profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Genus | Pentadesma |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pentadesma butyracea is a plant species primarily distributed across the diverse landscapes of West Tropical Africa. Its presence is well-documented throughout the region, spanning several distinct national territories. Specifically, this species can be found growing in the natural habitats of Benin and Burkina Faso. It also maintains a significant distribution within the borders of Ghana and Guinea. Furthermore, the plant extends its range into the coastal and inland areas of Guinea-Bissau.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pentadesma butyracea is a self-supporting plant that takes the form of a robust tree. It reaches impressive proportions in its natural habitat, with a maximum height typically measured at approximately 22.86 meters. However, certain specimens are capable of stretching even higher, reaching a peak of up to 25 meters. This structural stability and significant stature allow it to play a vital role within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Pentadesma butyracea is a medicinal plant that demonstrates a diverse range of significant pharmacological properties. Research indicates that the plant possesses potent antioxidant activity, which is closely linked to its high phenolic content. Furthermore, the species has shown promising anticancer potential, particularly through its ability to exhibit high cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines. Studies also highlight its antiplasmodial activity, showing effectiveness against chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Together, these multifaceted biological activities underscore the therapeutic importance of this plant in traditional medicine.
Compounds
Pentadesma butyracea serves as a rich source of diverse bioactive chemical compounds. During the chemical analysis of its stem bark, researchers successfully isolated several new xanthones alongside a specific triterpenoid known as lupeol. These extracted components were subjected to rigorous testing to determine their medicinal potential. The study focused on evaluating their effectiveness against malaria-causing parasites and human breast cancer cells. Ultimately, the presence of lupeol and various xanthones highlights the significant pharmacological importance of this plant species.
Conditions
Pentadesma butyracea demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its ability to treat a chloroquine-resistant strain of Plasmodium falciparum. The plant also exhibits notable anticancer activity, specifically showing potent cytotoxicity against the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Beyond its anti-pathogenic properties, the species is used in traditional medicine to treat various diarrhea symptoms. Research has specifically confirmed its effectiveness in treating castor oil-induced diarrhea by reducing wet stool output. These diverse pharmacological profiles highlight the plant's utility in managing both parasitic infections and gastrointestinal distress.
Preparations
Pentadesma butyracea is frequently prepared as bark decoctions for use in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea symptoms. These decoctions are specifically derived from the plant's stem bark. Additionally, the plant is processed into various extracts through methods such as maceration in organic solvents. These extracts have demonstrated significant anticancer and antimicrobial activities in various studies. Through these different preparation methods, the medicinal properties of the plant are effectively utilized.
Parts used
Pentadesma butyracea serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds, particularly within its stem bark. Researchers have successfully isolated four new xanthones, known as butyraxanthones A-D, from this specific plant part. In addition to these new discoveries, the stem also yields six known xanthones and the triterpenoid lupeol. These isolated substances were rigorously tested for their effectiveness against both human breast cancer cells and malaria-causing parasites. Ultimately, the findings reveal that many of these xanthones possess promising antiplasmodial and cytotoxic properties.