Pometia pinnata
Pometia pinnata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pometia pinnata is a fascinating botanical species known for its unique chemical composition and biological properties. The plant contains significant concentrations of bioactive compounds, including Hederagenin, Proanthocyanidin A2, and various Saponins. Researchers have identified that these potent secondary metabolites are particularly concentrated within the plant's stem. Understanding these chemical profiles is essential for exploring the potential medicinal applications of the species. Consequently, studying this plant offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between botanical structures and their chemical makeup.
- Synonyms
- Irina Alnifolia · Cnesmocarpus Excelsus · 37 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Pometia pinnata is a versatile species recognized by a variety of local and regional names. It is widely known by the common name Ar, though it is also frequently referred to as Dawa. In certain areas, the plant is identified as Dawan or Leungsir. Travelers and botanists may also encounter it under the name Fijian longan. These diverse monikers reflect the plant's widespread presence across different cultural landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pometia pinnata is a botanical species recognized across various scientific classifications through several different names. It is formally associated with the synonym Aphania neoebudica, reflecting its complex taxonomic history. Researchers also identify this plant under the names Aporetica pinnata and Cnesmocarpus excelsus. Furthermore, its classification has been linked to the synonyms Dabanus acuminatus and Dabanus pinnatus. Understanding these various nomenclatures is essential for accurately documenting the plant's diverse biological relationships.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pometia pinnata belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Sapindales, a grouping that connects it to various other flowering plants. The species is specifically nested within the family Sapindaceae, which provides key insights into its botanical characteristics. Finally, it is defined by its membership in the genus Pometia, distinguishing it from its close relatives.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Pometia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pometia pinnata exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across multiple regions of Asia. In temperate zones, the species can be found throughout China, including the South-Central regions, as well as in Taiwan. Its tropical presence is equally significant, stretching across the Indian Subcontinent and specifically into Sri Lanka. The plant also thrives within the Indo-China region, with notable populations located in Laos and the Andaman Islands. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various Asian climates and environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pometia pinnata is a robust, self-supporting tree that commands attention in its natural habitat. This impressive species is characterized by its significant stature, reaching impressive heights as it matures. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the tree can achieve a maximum height of 40 meters or even soar up to 50 meters. Such grand growth forms allow it to establish a dominant presence within the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Pometia pinnata, often identified in botanical studies through its related species Pometia eximia, serves as a significant source of diverse chemical compounds. Research indicates that the stems of these plants are rich in various saponins, which are bioactive glycosides. Specifically, these plants contain hederagenin, a key triterpenoid component found within their chemical makeup. The isolation process has revealed several new saponins that function as complex glycosides of hederagenin. Such findings highlight the complex phytochemical profile and the valuable secondary metabolites present within the Pometia genus.
Conditions
Pometia pinnata leaves contain potent compounds that act as inhibitors against the HIV-1 integrase enzyme. Among various Thai medicinal plants tested, the ethanol extract of this species demonstrated the strongest inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 8.8 µg/mL. Through an assay-guided isolation process, researchers successfully identified proanthocyanidin A2 as a key active component. This specific compound exhibited satisfactory anti-HIV-1 integrase activity with an IC50 value of 30.1 µM. While other substances like certain flavonoids and saponins were also isolated, only the proanthocyanidin A2 showed effectiveness in treating the enzyme.
Preparations
Parts used
Pometia pinnata, a species closely related to Pometia eximia, shares significant botanical characteristics within its structural composition. Scientific investigations into the genus have highlighted the importance of specific plant organs for chemical discovery. In particular, the stem serves as a vital source of bioactive compounds such as hederagenin glycosides. These saponins are isolated directly from the stem tissue to facilitate detailed structural analysis. Understanding these plant relationships helps researchers better identify the medicinal potential found within the stems of this genus.