Pericopsis laxiflora
Pericopsis laxiflora · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pericopsis laxiflora is a botanical species known for its diverse pharmacological properties derived primarily from its stem and bark. Scientific studies have highlighted its potential therapeutic activities, including acting as an aldose-reductase inhibitor, an alpha-reductase inhibitor, and an antiaggregant. Researchers frequently utilize hydro-alcoholic extracts and stem bark extracts to harness these medicinal benefits. These preparations are traditionally studied for their ability to address various conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, and malaria. Furthermore, the plant has been noted for its specific biological activity as an abortifacient.
- Synonyms
- Pericopsis Angolensis Subsp. Laxiflora · Ormosia Laxiflora · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Synonyms
Pericopsis laxiflora is a botanical species that has been documented under several different names throughout scientific history. It is recognized by the synonyms Afrormosia laxiflora and Ormosia laxiflora in various taxonomic records. Additionally, the plant is classified under the name Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora in certain contexts. These various designations reflect the evolving nature of botanical classification and nomenclature. Understanding these synonymous relationships is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pericopsis laxiflora 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 Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. This plant is a member of the genus Pericopsis, which defines its unique morphological characteristics. Finally, it is nested within the family Fabaceae, linking it to a diverse group of flowering plants.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pericopsis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pericopsis laxiflora is a notable species found across diverse regions of the African continent. Its distribution spans the tropical landscapes of Northeast Africa, specifically within Chad and the corridor of Sudan and South Sudan. The plant also extends its reach into West Tropical Africa, establishing a presence in countries such as Benin and Burkina Faso. Furthermore, its geographical range includes the coastal areas of the Gambia, highlighting its adaptability to different environments. This wide-reaching presence underscores the ecological importance of the species throughout various African territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pericopsis laxiflora is a distinguished tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This botanical specimen typically reaches impressive heights within its natural habitat. While it can grow as tall as approximately 12.19 meters, its stature often ranges between 9.14 and 10 meters. Such consistent vertical development allows the tree to establish a commanding presence in the canopy. Ultimately, its structural integrity makes it a resilient component of its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Pericopsis laxiflora demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its diverse pharmacological properties. Research into the Ivorian pharmacopoeia has highlighted its potent antiplasmodial activity, particularly through the use of methanolic extracts. This ability to combat malaria strains makes it a valuable candidate for developing new medicinal treatments. Additionally, studies on medicinal plants from Cameroon have identified its anxiolytic-like properties, which can help manage anxiety and agitation. Together, these findings underscore the plant's importance in both traditional and modern medicinal applications.
Compounds
Conditions
Pericopsis laxiflora, also referred to as Afrormosia laxiflora, demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its various therapeutic properties. This plant is used in traditional medicine to treat epilepsy, agitation, and anxiety. Research indicates that its extracts possess anxiolytic-like properties that can help manage these neurological conditions. Furthermore, the plant has shown high efficacy in treating the hepatitis C virus (HCV) due to its polyphenol and tannin content. Finally, its hydro-alcoholic extracts have been found to inhibit the LHRH-induced release of LH in cultured cells.
Preparations
Pericopsis laxiflora is prepared as hydro-alcoholic extracts to investigate their in vitro action on cultured rat pituitary cells. These specific extracts are analyzed for their ability to inhibit the LHRH-induced release of LH. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as stem bark extracts to study their impact on the oestrus cycle of female rats. These stem bark extracts exhibit antigonadotropic activity and contain phyto-anti-oestrogens. The research focuses on how these prepared extracts interact with uterine oestrogen and progestin receptors to exert antifertility actions.
Parts used
Pericopsis laxiflora, also known as Afrormosia laxiflora, contains bioactive compounds located within its stem bark. Research indicates that extracts derived from this specific plant part can effectively block the oestrus cycle in female rats. This antigonadotropic activity is driven by the presence of phyto-anti-oestrogens within the stem extracts. When tested against hormone receptors, the plant shows a high efficiency in competing for oestrogen receptor binding. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the stem extracts may interfere with natural steroids by occupying the same binding sites.