Picrasma javanica
Picrasma javanica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Picrasma javanica is a distinctive botanical species known for its diverse morphological components, including the leaf, stem, seed, and root. Researchers often focus on the therapeutic potential of this plant by utilizing various parts for medicinal studies. Specifically, the bark and methanol extracts are frequently studied to isolate its potent bioactive compounds. These preparations are central to understanding the plant's complex chemical profile and pharmacological activities. Consequently, this species remains a significant subject of interest in both traditional medicine and modern scientific research.
- Synonyms
- Picrasma Javanica Var. Napalensis · Picrasma Andamanica · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Simaroubaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Synonyms
Picrasma javanica is a complex botanical species that is frequently identified through various taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, it is often referred to by the name Brucea dubia. The plant also shares nomenclature with Picrasma andamanica and Picrasma philippinensis. Furthermore, its classification encompasses specific varieties such as Picrasma javanica var. napalensis. Researchers may also encounter it documented simply as Picrasma napalensis in different botanical contexts.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Picrasma javanica is a distinctive botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. More narrowly, it is categorized under the genus Picrasma. Finally, this species is a recognized member of the family Simaroubaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Picrasma |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Picrasma javanica is a notable species primarily distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Within the Indian Subcontinent, this plant maintains a significant presence across several diverse territories. Its range extends through the vast landscapes of India and the lush environments of Bangladesh. Furthermore, the species can be found thriving in the unique climates of Nepal and the rugged terrain of the East Himalaya. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's adaptability to various tropical habitats across the region, including specific areas like Assam.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Picrasma javanica is a self-supporting tree that stands as a prominent feature in its natural habitat. This species exhibits a robust growth form, reaching a maximum height of 24 meters. Its sturdy structure allows it to thrive as a substantial tree within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Picrasma javanica exhibits significant antibacterial activity across various parts of the plant, including its leaves, seeds, stem, and root barks. Researchers found that methanol extracts from these components, when partitioned into different solvents, demonstrated a broad spectrum of effectiveness against bacteria. Specifically, the petrol, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and butanol fractions all showed positive results in combating bacterial growth. Despite this potent antibacterial property, the extracts showed no activity against the tested moulds. This highlights the plant's specialized potential as a source for antibacterial treatments.
Preparations
Picrasma javanica is prepared as bark to facilitate the isolation of specific chemical compounds like javanicins A, C, and D. This botanical species is also prepared as methanol extracts to evaluate its medicinal potential. These extracts are derived from various parts of the plant, including the leaves, seeds, stem, and root barks. Scientific testing reveals that the resulting methanol extracts possess a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. Consequently, the preparation of both the bark and methanol extracts serves as a critical step in studying the plant's bioactive quassinoids and antimicrobial properties.
Parts used
Picrasma javanica is a plant species that possesses several distinct anatomical parts used in various studies. Research indicates that the leaves and seeds of the plant contain significant biological properties. Additionally, the stem and the root barks serve as vital components for extracting medicinal compounds. When these different parts are processed into methanol extracts, they demonstrate a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. However, these specific extracts have shown no effectiveness against the tested moulds.