Tapirira guianensis
Tapirira guianensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (7 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Tapirira guianensis is a versatile botanical species that has gained significant scientific interest due to its diverse range of biological activities. Research indicates that various preparations, including aqueous seed extracts and CH(2)Cl(2) bark extracts, possess potent antimalarial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The plant's medicinal potential is further supported by its antiproliferative and cytostatic effects, which are vital in studying chromosomal aberrations. These therapeutic functions are largely attributed to the presence of specialized chemical compounds, specifically sesquiterpene derivatives. By utilizing different plant parts such as the leaves and seeds, researchers continue to uncover the profound pharmacological value of this species.
- Synonyms
- Tapirira Bijuga · Comocladia Tapaculo · 18 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Tapirira guianensis is a versatile species recognized by a diverse array of local names across different regions. It is frequently referred to by the common name Aroeirana, reflecting its specific botanical identity. In other areas, people may call it Bom-nome or Camboatá depending on regional linguistic traditions. The plant is also widely known as Capuba, a name that highlights its presence in local ecosystems. Finally, it is sometimes identified as Cedro-novo, showcasing the many ways this single species is categorized.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Tapirira guianensis is a species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several different botanical names. Throughout various scientific studies, it has been identified by multiple synonyms such as Bursera bahiensis and Comocladia tapaculo. Researchers have also historically categorized the plant under the names Joncquetia guianensis and Joncquetia paniculata. Furthermore, the name Marupa francoana has been used to describe specimens that are now recognized as this single species. Understanding these botanical relationships is essential for maintaining accurate records in plant biodiversity databases.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Tapirira guianensis is a notable biological specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls specifically under the order Sapindales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. Further taxonomic refinement places the plant within the genus Tapirira. Finally, it is a distinguished member of the Anacardiaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Tapirira |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Tapirira guianensis exhibits an impressively wide geographical distribution that spans across several continents and oceanic regions. In the Americas, this species is found throughout parts of Mexico and extends deep into South America, specifically across Northern, Northeastern, and Southern Brazil. Its presence is not limited to the Western Hemisphere, however, as it also reaches into Northern America. Furthermore, the plant's range expands across the Pacific, establishing itself within the Southwestern Pacific and the islands of Vanuatu. This expansive reach highlights the remarkable adaptability of the species to diverse global environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Tapirira guianensis is a versatile tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the plant can vary significantly in stature. While some individuals may only reach a modest height of 11 meters, others can flourish much larger. In ideal habitats, this impressive tree can achieve a maximum height of up to 30 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Tapirira guianensis is a tropical South American plant that has long been valued by indigenous communities for its diverse medicinal properties. Recent scientific investigations into its seed extracts have revealed a rich concentration of phenolic compounds that provide significant antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits. The hydroethanolic extracts of this plant have specifically demonstrated potent antiproliferative effects by reducing cancer-cell viability. Additionally, the seeds exhibit impressive antimalarial activity against both sensitive and resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Ultimately, these findings highlight the plant's potential as a natural source of bioactive compounds with essential cytoprotective properties.
Compounds
Tapirira guianensis has emerged as a significant subject of study due to its remarkable medicinal properties and bioactive composition. Recent research highlights that the plant contains various essential constituents, including sesquiterpene derivatives and phenolic compounds. These specific chemical components are believed to play a crucial role in the plant's potent antitumor activities. In preclinical studies, extracts from the species have demonstrated the ability to induce apoptosis and inhibit tumor growth in glioblastoma models. Such findings suggest that the sesquiterpene derivatives within the plant could lead to the development of novel therapeutic treatments for malignant brain tumors.
Conditions
Tapirira guianensis exhibits significant antiradical activity as evidenced by its performance in DPPH, TEAC, and ORAC chemical assays. The plant's hydromethanolic leaf extracts demonstrate antioxidant properties comparable to or even exceeding those of green tea. Beyond its antioxidant capabilities, the species shows considerable antitumor potential against glioblastoma through the induction of apoptosis and the reduction of tumor growth. Specifically, the extracts demonstrate selective cytotoxicity toward the GAMG cell line in preclinical studies. These combined biological activities highlight the medicinal importance of the plant's phenolic compounds and sesquiterpene derivatives.
Preparations
Tapirira guianensis is prepared as CH(2)Cl(2) bark extract to isolate compounds with anti-protozoal and anti-bacterial activities. The plant is also prepared as aqueous seed extracts to investigate their chemical composition and antimalarial properties. Various types of extracts are utilized to study the medicinal potential of the species, including its effects on glioblastoma. Specifically, seed extracts are analyzed for their antioxidant, antiproliferative, and cytoprotective capabilities. Through these different preparations, the plant serves as a significant natural source of bioactive compounds.
Parts used
Tapirira guianensis is a tropical tree native to the Amazonian Forest that holds significant medicinal value for indigenous communities. Scientific investigations have focused on its various components, specifically highlighting the bioactive potential of its seeds and leaves. The seeds contain rich phenolic compounds that exhibit remarkable antiproliferative, antioxidant, and antimalarial properties. Similarly, extracts derived from the leaves have demonstrated high polyphenol content and potent antiradical activities comparable to green tea. Through the study of these specific plant parts, researchers are uncovering new ways to utilize this species in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications.