Plathymenia reticulata
Plathymenia reticulata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Plathymenia reticulata is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Recent investigations have focused on the bioactive properties of its bark, specifically utilizing aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts. These preparations are rich in essential secondary metabolites, including flavonoids and tannins, which contribute to their biological efficacy. Research indicates that these extracts exhibit notable antifungal and antimicrobial activities, particularly against various yeasts. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates cytotoxic properties that suggest its value in advanced biomedical applications.
- Synonyms
- Plathymenia Foliolosa Var. Paraguariensis · Pirottantha Modesta · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Plathymenia reticulata is a versatile tree recognized by a diverse array of regional common names. Depending on the local tradition, it is frequently referred to as Candeia or Acende-candeia. In other areas, the species is known by the names Amarelinho or Amarelo, which likely allude to its characteristic coloring. It is also commonly called Oiteira, highlighting the linguistic variety associated with its identity. Understanding these various monikers is essential for anyone studying the botanical diversity of this significant species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Plathymenia reticulata is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Throughout various scientific classifications, it has been identified under names such as Chrysoxylon vinhatico and Pirottantha modesta. Researchers have also documented its relationship to Plathymenia foliolosa, highlighting the intricacies of its naming history. This botanical lineage further extends to include the specific variety Plathymenia foliolosa var. paraguariensis. Finally, the name Plathymenia modesta serves as another recognized synonym within its diverse nomenclatural record.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Plathymenia reticulata is a distinguished member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized under the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a representative of the genus Plathymenia, it holds a unique place in botanical studies. Finally, this plant is classified within the diverse family Fabaceae, linking it to many other significant legumes.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Plathymenia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Plathymenia reticulata is widely distributed across the vast landscapes of South America, with a particularly strong presence throughout Brazil. This species can be found spanning multiple regions, including the lush environments of Northeast Brazil and the expansive terrains of the South. Its reach extends into the Southeast and throughout the West-Central territories, demonstrating significant ecological adaptability. Furthermore, the plant maintains a notable presence in Northern Brazil, contributing to the continent's rich biodiversity. Through these diverse locations, the species establishes a widespread and integral footprint within the Brazilian ecosystem.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Plathymenia reticulata is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct growth form as a tree. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 10 meters, though it can grow larger under certain conditions. In some environments, its stature may extend to a maximum height of 22 meters. These varying dimensions highlight the adaptable nature of this woody organism.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Plathymenia reticulata has emerged as a significant species of interest in the study of medicinal plants from the Brazilian cerrado. Research conducted using Brazilian cachaça as an extractor liquid demonstrates that this plant possesses notable antimicrobial activity. Specifically, the extracts from this species have shown high efficacy in combating yeasts, highlighting its strong antifungal properties. Furthermore, the studies revealed that Plathymenia reticulata also exhibits cytotoxic activity when tested against Vero cells. These findings contribute to the broader scientific search for safe and effective phytomedicines for treating infectious diseases.
Compounds
Plathymenia reticulata is a common tree species from the Brazilian cerrado belonging to the Fabaceae family. This plant is notably rich in phenolic compounds, specifically containing significant amounts of flavonoids and tannins. Scientific analysis using UPLC has confirmed a wide variety of these flavonoids within its hydroethanolic bark extract. Because these compounds are associated with diverse biological effects, they are a primary focus in the search for new medicinal substances. However, researchers suggest caution when combining such extracts with clinical antibiotics due to potential antagonistic interactions.
Conditions
Plathymenia reticulata possesses diverse biological properties that address several medicinal needs. The plant's extract has demonstrated the ability to combat bacterial resistance, specifically showing direct antibacterial activity against strains like Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, aqueous extracts of this species can completely inhibit the hemorrhage induced by Bothrops jararaca venom. In addition to these effects, Plathymenia reticulata exhibits significant antimicrobial activity against yeasts. These combined therapeutic actions highlight the plant's potential as a source for alternative pharmacological treatments.
Preparations
Plathymenia reticulata is prepared as aqueous extracts to test their ability to inhibit hemorrhagic activity induced by Bothrops jararaca venom. These aqueous extracts demonstrated a complete inhibition of the venom's hemorrhagic effects in vitro. Additionally, Plathymenia reticulata is prepared as a hydroethanolic extract from the bark of Plathymenia reticulata (HEPrB) for further pharmacological study. This specific HEPrB was utilized to evaluate its direct antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and its modulatory effects on antibiotics. The research into these various preparations focuses on the high phenolic content found within the species.