Pilocarpus spicatus
Pilocarpus spicatus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pilocarpus spicatus is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique physiological properties. Researchers often focus on the stem as a primary source of bioactive compounds within this plant. By utilizing various methods, scientists can produce crude extracts that hold significant pharmacological potential. These extracts serve as a foundation for studying the complex chemical profiles inherent to the species. Understanding the composition of these stem-derived substances is essential for advancing natural product research.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Pilocarpus spicatus is a distinctive botanical species recognized by its unique characteristics. In various regional contexts, it is frequently referred to by the common name pilokarp klasnatý. This specific nomenclature helps researchers and enthusiasts identify the plant within its natural habitat. Understanding these naming conventions is essential for accurate documentation in botanical studies. Consequently, recognizing both its scientific and common identities ensures clear communication among plant experts.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Pilocarpus spicatus is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It belongs to the specific genus Pilocarpus, which helps scientists identify its unique characteristics. Further taxonomic details place it in the order Sapindales. Finally, this species is a recognized member of the Rutaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Pilocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pilocarpus spicatus is a plant species primarily found within the expansive regions of South America. Its distribution is most notably concentrated throughout various parts of Brazil, where it thrives in diverse environments. Specifically, this species can be located in the Northeast region of the country. It is also documented as growing across the South and Southeast territories of Brazil. This wide geographical presence highlights the plant's adaptability to the different climates found across the nation.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pilocarpus spicatus is a self-supporting plant that exhibits a distinct tree-like growth form. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 5 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Its structural stability allows it to stand firmly while reaching toward the light.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Pilocarpus spicatus demonstrates significant in vitro activity against the trypomastigote form of Trypanosoma cruzi. Specifically, the crude extract derived from the stems of this plant species exhibited a high level of effectiveness at a concentration of 4 mg/ml. This particular extract achieved an impressive activity rate of 97.3% against the parasite. Among the nine Rutaceae species evaluated in the study, Pilocarpus spicatus was identified as the most active source. These findings highlight the potent potential of this plant in treating the trypomastigote stage of the infection.
Preparations
Pilocarpus spicatus is prepared as crude extracts to evaluate its biological activity. These specific extracts were tested against the trypomastigote form of Trypanosoma cruzi at a concentration of 4 mg/ml. Research focused on the stems of the plant to obtain the most potent preparation. This crude extract demonstrated a significant activity level of 97.3% during the study. The preparation of these extracts serves as a critical step for subsequent fractionation and testing.
Parts used
Pilocarpus spicatus has demonstrated remarkable potential in recent pharmacological studies targeting the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Researchers evaluated various crude extracts from Rutaceae species to identify significant inhibitory activity against the trypomastigote form. Among the many substances tested, the most potent results were specifically derived from the stem of this particular plant. This extract achieved an impressive 97.3% activity level during the initial evaluation phase. Such findings highlight the importance of examining specific plant parts like the stem to uncover effective natural medicinal compounds.