Pouteria torta
Pouteria torta · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pouteria torta is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Researchers have focused on studying its crude extract to uncover a wide array of biological properties. Preliminary investigations suggest that this plant exhibits potent anthelmintic and antibacterial activities. Furthermore, its medicinal value extends to promising anticancer and anti-HIV capabilities. These multifaceted pharmacological effects highlight the importance of exploring this species for future drug development.
- Synonyms
- Pouteria Torta Subsp. Torta · Labatia Oblonga · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapotaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Pouteria torta is a versatile tropical plant recognized by several distinct local names across different regions. It is frequently referred to by its common names Abiu-piloso and Abiurana, highlighting its botanical connections. In certain areas, people may also call this species Acá or Cabo-de-machado. Additionally, it is widely known by the name Caimito, which connects it to a broader family of fruit-bearing trees. This variety of nomenclature reflects the plant's deep integration into diverse cultural and linguistic landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pouteria torta is a botanical species characterized by a complex history of various taxonomic synonyms. Throughout scientific literature, this plant has been identified under several different names, including Guapeba torta and Lucuma torta. It is also frequently referred to by researchers as Labatia oblonga or Labatia torta. Furthermore, certain classifications recognize the plant specifically as Pouteria torta subsp. torta. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pouteria torta is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is a member of the order Ericales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It further belongs to the Sapotaceae family, a group known for its distinct characteristics. Finally, its precise scientific identity is established within the genus Pouteria.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Pouteria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pouteria torta is a botanical species primarily distributed throughout the vast landscapes of Southern America. Within this region, the plant maintains a significant presence across the diverse territories of Brazil. Its range extends through the northern reaches of the country, reaching into the Brazil Northeast region. Furthermore, it can be found flourishing in the South, Southeast, and West-Central areas of the nation. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various Brazilian environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pouteria torta is a self-supporting tree that stands as a robust feature of its ecosystem. This species exhibits a versatile growth form, capable of reaching a variety of sizes depending on its environment. While it can maintain a modest stature of up to 12 m, it possesses the potential for significant expansion. In optimal conditions, the tree can ultimately achieve a maximum height of 35 m.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Pouteria torta is one of the medicinal plant species identified in the Brazilian Cerrado for its promising biological properties. During recent in vitro evaluations, this plant demonstrated clear antifungal activity against various clinically relevant Candida species. Specifically, researchers found that its crude extracts were effective against these yeast strains with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1000 μg/disc. While other species in the study showed higher potency, the results for Pouteria torta still highlight its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. These findings support the ongoing scientific search for new, naturally occurring products to combat fungal infections.
Compounds
Conditions
Pouteria torta demonstrates significant biological activity against various yeast strains, specifically showing an inhibitory effect with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1000 μg/disc. In addition to its antifungal properties, the aqueous extract of this plant acts as a potent inhibitor of α-amylase. It specifically exhibits a strong α-amylase inhibitory activity with an IC₅₀ value of 5.67 µg/mL. Furthermore, Pouteria torta serves as a highly effective inhibitor of α-glucosidase. This plant achieves a remarkable α-glucosidase inhibitory concentration with an IC₅₀ value of 0.22 µg/mL.
Preparations
Pouteria torta is prepared as a crude extract to evaluate its biological properties. This specific preparation was tested for its antifungal activity against various clinically relevant Candida species. During the study, the extract demonstrated measurable inhibitory effects against several yeast strains. The effectiveness of the Pouteria torta crude extract was determined using the disk diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration values. These results highlight the plant's potential as a source of natural antimicrobial compounds.