Simarouba glauca
Simarouba glauca · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Simarouba glauca is a botanical species recognized for its diverse pharmacological potential, particularly through its bioactive leaf components. Research focusing on ethanol, methanolic, and chloroform-soluble extracts has revealed that these preparations are rich in essential terpenoids. These chemical compounds contribute to significant antioxidant activity and serve as potent 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Furthermore, the plant shows therapeutic promise in studies involving various cancers, specifically targeting breast and cervix conditions. However, users should remain cautious as the plant is also noted to possess allergenic properties.
- Synonyms
- Simarouba Glauca Subsp. Latifolia · Quassia Glauca · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Simaroubaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Temperate
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Simarouba glauca is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In various parts of the world, it is commonly referred to as Bitter ash or Bitter damson, particularly in Jamaica. Its identity shifts across different cultures, appearing as Amargo negro or Gavilan in certain locales. Some may also recognize this species by the names Bois amer or Bois blanc. These various common names reflect the plant's widespread presence and its multifaceted roles in different ecosystems.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Simarouba glauca is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Throughout various scientific studies, it has been identified under several alternative names, including Quassia glauca and Simarouba medicinalis. The plant also encompasses specific variations, such as Simarouba glauca subsp. latifolia and the variety Simarouba glauca var. latifolia. Additionally, historical records may refer to the specimen as Simarouba officinalis. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate identification and botanical classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Simarouba glauca belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Sapindales, a group that connects it to various other flowering plants. The specimen is a member of the specific genus Simarouba, which defines its distinct botanical characteristics. Finally, it is nested within the family Simaroubaceae, completing its formal taxonomic identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Simarouba |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Simarouba glauca exhibits a wide-ranging distribution that spans across diverse geographical regions. In the East, the species is found throughout the tropical areas of Asia, specifically within the Indian Subcontinent and India. Moving toward the Western Hemisphere, the plant has established a significant presence across various parts of Mexico. This coverage includes the central, gulf, and southeast regions of the country. Additionally, its reach extends into the southwest territories of Mexico, showcasing its adaptability to different environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Simarouba glauca is a self-supporting tree that maintains a sturdy and independent structural form. Reaching a maximum height of 15 meters, it provides a distinct presence within its native ecosystem. This medium-sized growth form makes it a notable component of the surrounding forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Simarouba glauca has demonstrated significant therapeutic potential through its diverse range of biological activities. Research indicates that the plant possesses robust antimicrobial properties, effectively targeting various bacterial and fungal strains. Specifically, its extracts have shown notable antibacterial and antifungal effects against pathogens such as E. coli and Candida albicans. Beyond fighting infection, the plant also exhibits strong antioxidant capacity, largely driven by bioactive terpenoids. Furthermore, studies have highlighted its anticancer potential, specifically through significant cytotoxicity against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line.
Compounds
Simarouba glauca is a medicinal plant that possesses a rich profile of bioactive phytochemicals. Research into its leaf extracts has identified terpenoids as the major proactive compounds responsible for providing maximum antioxidant capacity. Additionally, advanced LC-MS analysis has revealed the presence of eclalbasaponin V within its purified phenolic fractions. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the plant's significant potential in various therapeutic applications. Together, these findings highlight the importance of S. glauca as a promising candidate for future medicinal developments.
Conditions
Simarouba glauca demonstrates significant anticancer properties through its ability to target various malignant cells. Specifically, the compound 14-deacetyleurylene has been found to treat the Lu1 human lung cancer cell line. Additionally, methanolic extracts of the plant exhibit significant cytotoxicity against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. The plant also contributes to antidiabetic therapy due to its effective alpha glucosidase inhibition. These combined biochemical activities highlight its potential as a versatile medicinal agent for treating cancer and diabetes.
Preparations
Simarouba glauca is prepared as various types of extracts to evaluate its diverse biological properties. Specifically, the plant is prepared as ethanol extracts to test its antiprotozoal potential. Researchers also utilize a chloroform-soluble extract of the twigs to identify specific cytotoxic alkaloids and terpenoids. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as ethanolic and methanolic extracts to analyze its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. These different preparations allow for a comprehensive screening of the phytochemical profile of Simarouba glauca.
Parts used
Simarouca glauca possesses medicinal properties that are highly concentrated within its leaves. Research indicates that extracts from these leaves exhibit significant antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. Specifically, methanolic and ethanolic leaf extracts have shown the ability to combat various bacterial and fungal strains, including E. coli. Furthermore, bioactive fractions isolated from the leaves demonstrate potent anti-proliferative effects against several cancer cell lines by triggering apoptosis. Beyond oncology, phenolic-rich fractions from the leaves also show remarkable potential for antidiabetic therapy through the inhibition of alpha glucosidase enzymes.