Pseudocedrela kotschyi
Pseudocedrela kotschyi · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (11 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a versatile medicinal plant known for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Extracts derived from the root and stem exhibit diverse biological activities, including antioxidant, analgesic, anthelmintic, and antibacterial properties. These medicinal benefits are largely attributed to key chemical compounds such as 7-deacetyl-7-oxogedunin and 7-deacetylgedunin. Various preparations, ranging from concentrated extracts to simple chewing sticks, are utilized to treat conditions like abdominal pain, cough, and malaria. Furthermore, the plant has demonstrated effectiveness against pathogens such as Bacillus subtilis, highlighting its importance in pharmacological studies.
- Synonyms
- Cedrela Kotschyi · Pseudocedrela Chevalieri · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a botanical species that is widely recognized by its common name, Pacedrela Kotschyho. This plant belongs to a unique group of flora that carries specific nomenclatural identities within its ecosystem. Understanding the relationship between its scientific and common designations is essential for accurate botanical study. By linking these two names, researchers can better document the plant's presence in various habitats. Consequently, mastering these naming conventions ensures clear communication among botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this plant is frequently referred to by the name Cedrela kotschyi. It is also closely associated with the synonym Pseudocedrela chevalieri in various botanical records. Furthermore, researchers may encounter the names Soymida roupalifolia or Surenus kotschyi when studying its classification. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification and study of the species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this botanical realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Pseudocedrela, it occupies a unique niche in its biological grouping. Ultimately, this plant is a distinguished representative of the Meliaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Pseudocedrela |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a plant species with a broad distribution across several regions of the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, it can be found growing within the borders of Uganda. The species also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, establishing itself in Chad, Ethiopia, and the Sudan-South Sudan region. Furthermore, its presence reaches into West Tropical Africa, specifically documented in Benin. This wide geographic range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse African environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a distinct tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This botanical specimen exhibits significant variability in its stature depending on its environment. While some individuals may only reach a modest height of approximately 6.1 meters, others grow considerably larger. Most specimens typically maintain a height of at least 10 meters as they mature. Ultimately, this species can reach a maximum impressive height of over 18 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a significant medicinal plant found throughout tropical and subtropical Africa that holds immense therapeutic potential. Scientific investigations have confirmed that the plant possesses notable antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Beyond these properties, research highlights its effectiveness as an analgesic to help manage various types of pain. Furthermore, the plant has demonstrated anthelmintic capabilities, making it useful in traditional medical practices. Most notably, current studies continue to explore its promising anticancer effects as a basis for future drug development.
Compounds
Pseudocedrela kotschyi root extracts have shown significant promise in medicinal research due to their unique phytochemical profile. Detailed investigations into the dichloroform extracts of this species have identified several key bioactive constituents. Specifically, the plant contains the known compounds 7-deacetylgedunin and 7-deacetyl-7-oxogedunin. These two gedunin derivatives are of particular interest because they exhibit strong in vitro activity against various parasites. Such findings highlight the potential therapeutic value of the chemical relationships found within this species.
Conditions
Pseudocedrela kotschyi exhibits significant antimicrobial and antiprotozoal activities against several diverse organisms. Extracts from the plant's leaves, stem bark, and roots have proven effective in treating the bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas syringae. Additionally, the plant demonstrates antifungal properties by treating Cladosporium herbarum. Research into its root extracts reveals potent medicinal capabilities against the protozoan parasites Leishmania donovani and Plasmodium falciparum. These various biological interactions highlight the plant's potential as a source of bioactive compounds for treating different types of pathogens.
Preparations
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is utilized in West Africa through two primary preparation methods. The roots of this plant are frequently prepared as chewing sticks for oral use. Additionally, the plant is prepared as extracts to be used for various medicinal purposes. These extracts have demonstrated significant biological properties, including anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-malarial activities. Research also highlights that these extracts may serve as potential chemopreventive agents due to their ability to induce apoptosis in certain prostate cancer cell lines.
Parts used
Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a significant medicinal plant found throughout tropical and subtropical Africa that offers diverse therapeutic benefits. Research indicates that various parts of the plant, specifically the root and the stem, contain bioactive compounds essential for its pharmacological effects. The roots are highly valued for their ability to provide antiprotozoal properties and contribute to treatments for conditions like diabetes and malaria. Similarly, the stem bark is a primary source for isolating active constituents such as limonoids and triterpenes. Together, these plant parts demonstrate immense potential in the development of new drugs for treating cancer, inflammation, and various infectious diseases.