Plumeria alba
Plumeria alba · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Plumeria alba is a botanical species recognized for its diverse pharmacological potential and medicinal properties. Recent scientific investigations have focused specifically on the bioactive compounds found within its stem. Through various methods, researchers have developed ethanolic, ethyl acetate, and methanolic extracts to study the plant's chemical profile. These plant extracts have demonstrated significant biological activities, most notably antioxidant and antiplasmodial effects. Consequently, this species represents a promising subject for the development of new therapeutic agents.
- Synonyms
- Plumeria Revolutifolia · Plumeria Hypoleuca Var. Angustifolia · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Plumeria alba is a versatile and fragrant species known by a wide variety of regional names. Most commonly referred to as Frangipani, it is also frequently called Alheli in many parts of the world. Depending on the specific local dialect or cultivar, you might encounter it as Alheli blanco or Alheli cimarrón. Some traditional circles even refer to the plant by the unique name Baltasis jostras. Regardless of its many titles, this beautiful flowering plant remains a beloved staple in tropical landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Plumeria alba is a complex species that is frequently identified by several different botanical synonyms. It is often classified under the name Plumeria alba var. jacquiniana in various scientific records. Additionally, some taxonomists refer to this plant as Plumeria hypoleuca var. angustifolia. The species is also linked to the synonym Plumeria revolutifolia, adding to the diversity of its nomenclature. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification within the genus.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Plumeria alba is a fascinating botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its taxonomic journey continues through the order Gentianales, which provides a framework for its unique characteristics. This plant is a distinguished member of the genus Plumeria, known for its striking beauty. Ultimately, it finds its place within the family Apocynaceae, completing its complex scientific identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Plumeria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Plumeria alba boasts a diverse geographical range that spans across several distinct tropical regions. In Asia, this species is widely distributed throughout the Indian Subcontinent, including specific areas such as Assam and Bangladesh. Its reach extends far beyond the East, establishing a significant presence within the Caribbean. Within this island chain, the plant can be found thriving in the Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad-Tobago. This expansive distribution highlights the plant's ability to flourish in various warm, tropical environments across the globe.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Plumeria alba grows in a sturdy tree-like form that allows it to remain entirely self-supporting. This resilient plant typically reaches a maximum height of 4 meters. Its upright structure makes it a striking addition to any tropical landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Plumeria alba has emerged as a plant of significant medicinal interest due to its diverse biological properties. Research indicates that this species possesses notable antioxidant activity, which was demonstrated through various radical scavenging assays. In addition to these protective qualities, the plant has also shown moderate antiplasmodial activity against the Plasmodium falciparum strain. These findings highlight the plant's potential role in combating oxidative stress and parasitic infections. Consequently, the phytochemical profile of Plumeria alba continues to be a promising subject for future pharmacological development.
Compounds
Conditions
Plumeria alba demonstrates significant medicinal potential by exhibiting anti-leukemic efficacy against both B cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and the T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia cell line (MOLT4). The plant's extracts have also shown successful antiviral activity against the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and the Dengue Serotype 2 Virus. Furthermore, research indicates that Plumeria alba possesses moderate antiplasmodial properties against the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain. These diverse therapeutic capabilities highlight the plant's effectiveness in targeting various cancer cells, viruses, and parasites.
Preparations
Plumeria alba is prepared as ethanolic extracts from the stem bark to evaluate its antiplasmodial activity. This plant is also prepared as methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts to investigate its antioxidant and anti-cancerous properties. Furthermore, Plumeria alba is prepared as plant extracts that have demonstrated anti-dengue activity in previous studies. These various preparation methods allow researchers to isolate specific phytochemicals for medicinal testing. The diverse extraction techniques facilitate the study of the plant's potential as a leukemic drug candidate and an antimalarial agent.
Parts used
Plumeria alba serves as a significant subject in the study of traditional medicinal plants used by the Tetun ethnic people in West Timor, Indonesia. Research focused on evaluating the antiplasmodial activity of various botanical extracts, specifically utilizing the stem bark of this species. Laboratory tests revealed that the ethanolic extracts of Plumeria alba exhibit moderate antiplasmodial potency against the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain. This activity is supported by a diverse array of phytochemical constituents, including alkaloids, terpenoids, and steroids. Ultimately, the findings validate the traditional use of such plant parts in managing malaria within local communities.