Pterocarpus soyauxii
Pterocarpus soyauxii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pterocarpus soyauxii is a significant botanical species frequently utilized in traditional medicinal practices for its therapeutic properties. The plant's stem serves as a primary source for various medicinal components used to address oral health concerns. Specifically, preparations such as aqueous extracts, aqueous stem bark extracts, and heartwood are employed to manage dental discomfort. These preparations are particularly valued for their ability to alleviate symptoms of toothache and mitigate tooth sensitivity. Through these diverse applications, the species plays a vital role in treating localized dental ailments.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Pterocarpus soyauxii is a remarkable timber species known by several distinct regional names. It is frequently referred to as African coralwood, highlighting its vibrant and sought-after qualities. Many traders and enthusiasts also identify the tree as African padauk or Gabon padauk. In certain areas, it is locally recognized by the name afrikansk padauk. Furthermore, the species is sometimes called barwood, reflecting its diverse linguistic identity across different markets.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Pterocarpus soyauxii is a fascinating specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. As a member of the genus Pterocarpus, it shares distinct structural characteristics with its close relatives. Ultimately, this tree is a proud representative of the diverse family Fabaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pterocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pterocarpus soyauxii is a notable tree species primarily distributed throughout the diverse landscapes of Africa. Its presence is particularly concentrated across West Tropical Africa, with significant populations found in Nigeria. The species also flourishes within the West-Central Tropical Africa region, spanning several key territories. Specifically, it can be located in Cabinda, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic. Furthermore, the distribution extends into the Congo, highlighting its importance to the regional ecosystem.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pterocarpus soyauxii is a magnificent tree characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This species commands attention in its habitat, reaching impressive heights that typically peak around 30.48 meters. In certain optimal conditions, the tree can even stretch to a maximum height of 35 meters. Such stature allows it to stand as a prominent feature within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Pterocarpus soyauxii is utilized as a plant-based traditional medicine to address various oral health issues among the Baka pygmies. This specific plant is employed to treat dental abscesses that may arise from oral health problems. Additionally, the species serves as a remedy for managing tooth sensitivity in affected individuals. It is also used effectively to treat toothaches within this population. These medicinal applications highlight the plant's role in managing significant dental discomfort.
Preparations
Pterocarpus soyauxii is prepared as an aqueous extract for various toxicological investigations. Specifically, the plant is prepared as an aqueous stem bark extract to evaluate its safety and toxicity levels in rodent models. These studies assess the effects of administering the aqueous stem bark extract through oral gavage. Additionally, the plant is prepared as heartwood to facilitate the isolation of chemical constituents like benzofurans and isoflavans. Through these different preparations, researchers can study both the medicinal safety and the complex chemical profiles of the species.
Parts used
Pterocarpus soyauxii is a significant species in Cameroonian traditional medicine, frequently utilized to treat conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cutaneous diseases. Research focusing on its medicinal properties specifically utilizes the stem bark to create aqueous extracts for therapeutic study. Recent toxicity evaluations have examined the effects of administering these stem bark extracts orally to both mice and rats. While high acute doses in mice showed dose-dependent effects, sub-chronic studies in rats indicated that the extract remains relatively safe for consumption. Ultimately, the findings suggest that the stem portion of this plant holds promise for oral medication due to its low toxicity profile.