Tabernaemontana catharinensis
Tabernaemontana catharinensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a significant botanical species known for its diverse pharmacological potential. Recent studies focusing on the ethyl acetate fraction of its root bark have highlighted the presence of key alkaloids such as coronaridine, voacangine, and heyneanine. These chemical constituents have demonstrated notable antitumor activities in various biological models. Furthermore, the plant's extracts are being investigated for their therapeutic effects against Alzheimer's disease under specific experimental conditions. Research involving acetic acid, capsaicin, and formalin continues to explore the complex medicinal properties of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Peschiera Acuminata · Peschiera Affinis · 12 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a versatile plant recognized by several distinct regional names. It is widely known by the common name Jasmim, a term that highlights its delicate floral qualities. Depending on the local area, it may also be referred to as Jasmim-catavento or Jasmim-pipoca. In certain communities, the plant is frequently called Leiteira due to its characteristic milky sap. Furthermore, it is sometimes identified as Leiteira-dois-irmãos, reflecting the diverse linguistic heritage surrounding this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a botanical subject frequently identified through various taxonomic synonyms in scientific literature. It is closely associated with several classifications under the genus Peschiera, including the names Peschiera acuminata and Peschiera affinis. Researchers also recognize the plant under the synonym Peschiera albidiflora to describe specific botanical variations. Furthermore, the species is linked to Peschiera australis, which encompasses a broader range of morphological characteristics. This relationship extends even to specific varieties, such as Peschiera australis var. hilariana, illustrating the complex nomenclature surrounding this plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. This species is formally classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Gentianales. Within this biological hierarchy, it is nested inside the family Apocynaceae. Furthermore, the plant is a primary representative of the genus Tabernaemontana. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the botanical identity of this specific organism.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Tabernaemontana |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a species widely distributed throughout various regions of Southern America. Its presence is particularly prominent across Brazil, where it can be found in the Northeast, South, and Southeast. Additionally, this plant thrives in the West-Central areas of Brazil, showcasing its adaptability to different local climates. The species also extends its range into the northern reaches of the continent. Specifically, it is known to inhabit the Northeast region of Argentina within Southern South America.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a self-supporting plant characterized by its distinct tree-like growth form. This species typically reaches a moderate size, with heights generally topping out around 5 meters. However, under optimal conditions, the plant can expand to reach a maximum height of 9 meters. These dimensions make it a versatile addition to various landscape designs.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a medicinal plant recognized for producing alkaloids that possess significant antitumor activity. Within this species, specific compounds such as heyneanine, voacangine, and coronaridine have been identified as potential agents for cancer treatment. Research specifically highlights coronaridine for its impressive cytotoxic effects against the human laryngeal epithelial carcinoma cell line, known as Hep-2. Beyond simple cell death, this alkaloid has been shown to induce apoptosis and maintain minimal damage to the DNA of the targeted tumor cells. These findings suggest that further investigation into the plant's chemical properties could lead to valuable new developments in oncology.
Compounds
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a medicinal plant recognized for producing several indole alkaloids with expressive antitumor activity. Among these bioactive compounds, the plant contains coronaridine, voacangine, and heyneanine. Research indicates that these specific alkaloids play a significant role in exploring new natural treatments for cancer. In comparative studies, coronaridine has demonstrated the highest cytotoxic activity against certain laryngeal carcinoma cell lines. Consequently, the diverse chemical profile of Tabernaemontana catharinensis makes it a valuable subject for further oncological investigation.
Conditions
Tabernaemontana catharinensis shows significant promise in treating Alzheimer's disease through the development of new-to-nature iboga-type alkaloids that inhibit key enzymes. The ethyl acetate fraction of this plant effectively treats nociception caused by acetic acid, formalin, and capsaicin in mouse models. These antinociceptive properties allow the plant to act as an effective agent against pain induced by these specific chemical stimuli. Furthermore, the species possesses medicinal potential for the treatment of various infections due to its diverse secondary metabolites. Collectively, these biological activities validate the traditional use of the plant in managing diverse pathological conditions.
Preparations
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is prepared as an ethyl acetate fraction to investigate its potential antinociceptive and analgesic properties in mice. Research shows that this specific ethyl acetate fraction can effectively inhibit nociception caused by acetic acid, formalin, and capsaicin. Additionally, the plant is prepared as root bark for use in Brazilian folk medicine to treat snake bites. This root bark is applied to the site of a bite to neutralize the effects of venom from the Crotalus durissus terrificus rattlesnake. Both of these specific preparations demonstrate significant pharmacological activities that validate the traditional medicinal uses of the species.
Parts used
Tabernaemontana catharinensis is a significant plant in Brazilian folk medicine, particularly for its traditional use in treating venomous animal bites. Local communities in regions like Assis-SP specifically utilize the root bark of this species to neutralize the effects of snake venom. Scientific investigations have confirmed that aqueous and ethanolic extracts derived from the plant can effectively inhibit the lethality and myotoxicity of Crotalus durissus terrificus venom. Through chemical fractionation, researchers identified that specific components, such as the quaternary alkaloid 12-methoxy-4-methylvoachalotine, play a crucial role in this antiophidian activity. These findings suggest that the plant serves as a valuable source for discovering model molecules to combat snake envenomation.