Rhizophora mangle
Rhizophora mangle · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Rhizophora mangle, commonly known as the red mangrove, is a versatile plant species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential. Scientific investigations into its leaf extracts, specifically through aqueous and BuOH preparations, have revealed a diverse range of biological activities. These studies highlight its pharmacological properties, including antiulcer, ACE-inhibitor, acarifuge, and acnegenic effects. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates promising efficacy in addressing specific health conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus and inhibiting the growth of Aspergillus flavus. Consequently, the bioactive compounds found within its leaves represent a valuable resource for future medicinal developments.
- Synonyms
- Bruguiera Decangulata · Rhizophora Americana
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rhizophoraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Rhizophora mangle is a versatile species known by many different names depending on the local region. It is most widely recognized by the common name American Mangrove. In certain tropical areas, this plant is also frequently referred to as the Cunapo. You may also encounter it being called Mangel or Mangel Tam in various coastal communities. Finally, the species is sometimes identified by the alternative spelling Mangel Tan.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Rhizophora mangle is a complex species that often requires careful taxonomic scrutiny due to its overlapping classifications. In some botanical contexts, it has been linked to the synonym Bruguiera decangulata. Furthermore, researchers may encounter the name Rhizophora americana when discussing its variations. These overlapping designations highlight the intricate nature of mangrove identification. Understanding these relationships is essential for accurate ecological documentation and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Rhizophora mangle is a remarkable organism belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Malpighiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This species is a member of the genus Rhizophora, which distinguishes its unique structural characteristics. Finally, it is nested within the family Rhizophoraceae, completing its formal scientific identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Rhizophoraceae |
| Genus | Rhizophora |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Rhizophora mangle maintains a notable presence across several key regions of the African continent. Its distribution extends throughout South Tropical Africa, specifically including areas such as Angola. The species is also widely found across West Tropical Africa, establishing itself in various coastal territories. This presence is clearly seen in countries like Benin, Gambia, and Guinea. Furthermore, the plant can be reliably located within the borders of Guinea-Bissau.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Rhizophora mangle is a specialized tree that maintains a self-supporting growth form. This species typically reaches a height of up to 10 meters in most environments. However, under ideal conditions, it can achieve a maximum height of approximately 19.995 meters. These structural characteristics allow the plant to thrive within its unique coastal habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Rhizophora mangle, commonly known as the red mangrove, has long been recognized in traditional medicine for its potent antiulcer properties. Recent scientific evaluations of its bark extracts have demonstrated significant gastroprotective effects in various experimental models. The plant's efficacy is driven by complex mechanisms, including the involvement of nitric oxide, thiol groups, and mucus production. Furthermore, the extract promotes healing by enhancing prostaglandin levels and upregulating essential factors like COX-2 and epidermal growth factor. Given its lack of observed toxicity, this species presents a promising natural alternative to conventional antisecretory and cytoprotective therapies.
Compounds
Conditions
Rhizophora mangle demonstrates various medicinal properties, including the ability to treat Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) by decreasing hepatic glucose output and inhibiting G6Pase activity. In studies concerning dermatophytic infections, the plant also shows activity against certain pathogenic fungi. Specifically, it has been evaluated for its ability to treat Epidermophyton floccosum and Trichophyton rubrum, though it was noted as being less active than other species. While it was tested against other fungi, the research indicated that Aspergillus flavus was not susceptible to these treatments. Additionally, the plant's efficacy against Microsporum gypseum was part of the broader evaluation of its antifungal potential.
Preparations
Rhizophora mangle is prepared as extracts to evaluate various therapeutic properties such as hepatic glucose output inhibition and antioxidant activity. These extracts, including those derived from the bark, have demonstrated significant gastroprotective effects in rodent models. Specifically, Rhizophora mangle is prepared as BuOH, which has been shown to provide effective gastroprotection and influence the upregulation of COX-2 and EGF. Furthermore, Rhizophora mangle is prepared as aqueous extracts from the leaves, displaying high free radical scavenging and anti-hyperglycemic activities. These diverse preparation methods highlight the plant's significant potential for pharmaceutical and biotechnological applications.
Parts used
Rhizophora mangle serves as a significant subject of study due to the diverse therapeutic potential found within its leaves. Research on native plants from the Yucatan coast demonstrates that aqueous extracts of these leaves exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic activities. Furthermore, the plant has shown positive antimicrobial results against several human pathogenic bacteria and plant fungi. Phytochemical analyses also reveal that the leaves contain high concentrations of essential pigments, such as chlorophylls and carotenoids. These biological properties suggest that Rhizophora mangle holds substantial promise for future applications in both the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries.