Terminalia ivorensis
Terminalia ivorensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (4 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Terminalia ivorensis is a versatile botanical species known for containing a rich profile of bioactive chemicals, including coumarins, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. Derived primarily from the leaf and stem, various aqueous extracts and specialized preparations like the Bon-santé cleanser® (BSC) harness its medicinal potential. The plant demonstrates significant pharmacological activities, acting as an analgesic, antibacterial agent, 11B-HSD-inhibitor, and 5-lipoxygenase-inhibitor. These properties make it particularly valuable in addressing antipyretic conditions and combatting malaria caused by Plasmodium and Plasmodium falciparum. Consequently, this species represents a vital resource in the development of natural therapeutic interventions.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Terminalia ivorensis is a notable tree species recognized by several distinct regional and descriptive names. It is widely known in various parts of the world as the Ivory Coast almond or the Almendro de Costa de Marfil. Among timber enthusiasts and botanists, it is also frequently referred to as the Black Afara. Other common monikers include the descriptive blackbark, which highlights its physical characteristics. Additionally, it is sometimes called brimstonewood, reflecting the diverse linguistic traditions used to identify this plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Terminalia ivorensis is a remarkable species that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological kingdom, the plant is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Myrtales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Terminalia, it shares close botanical ties with its relatives. Finally, this tree is a distinguished representative of the family Combretaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Terminalia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Terminalia ivorensis is a significant tree species widely distributed throughout the tropical regions of West Africa. Its natural range spans across several diverse nations, playing a vital role in the local ecosystems of the continent. Specifically, this species can be found thriving in the landscapes of Benin and Burkina Faso. It also maintains a steady presence within the borders of the Gambia and Ghana. Furthermore, its distribution extends into Guinea, highlighting its widespread importance across the West African belt.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Terminalia ivorensis is a remarkable tree that exhibits a sturdy and self-supporting growth form. As it matures, this species can reach a substantial height of up to 30 meters. In some optimal environmental conditions, however, it is capable of soaring even higher to reach a maximum of approximately 45.72 meters. This impressive stature makes it a prominent feature within its natural forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Terminalia ivorensis is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse range of therapeutic biological activities. Research has documented that its extracts possess significant analgesic and antipyretic properties, which can help manage pain and fever. Additionally, the plant exhibits androgenic potential, making it a key component in polyherbal formulations designed to boost hormones. Beyond these effects, studies on its trunk bark have demonstrated potent antibacterial activity against various strains of Staphylococcus. These combined pharmacological characteristics justify its widespread use in traditional medicine for treating various microbial and inflammatory conditions.
Compounds
Terminalia ivorensis is a commercially significant medicinal species known for its diverse phytochemical profile. Detailed qualitative analysis of its trunk barks reveals that the plant contains several important chemical groups, including coumarins and flavonoids. Furthermore, the presence of saponins and tannins contributes to its complex chemical makeup. These bioactive components are part of a broader group of polyphenols found within the species. Ultimately, this rich abundance of chemical compounds helps justify the plant's traditional use in treating various microbial diseases.
Conditions
Terminalia ivorensis exhibits significant anti-plasmodial activities, demonstrating high potency against the Plasmodium parasite. Specifically, the plant effectively treats Plasmodium falciparum by inhibiting the growth of the parasite during its ring and trophozoite stages. Beyond its antimalarial properties, Terminalia ivorensis has been shown to ameliorate all signs associated with adjuvant-induced polyarthritis in animal models. The plant also provides a notable antioxidant effect, specifically through its ability to influence superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. These diverse pharmacological properties highlight the plant's multifaceted potential in treating both infectious and inflammatory conditions.
Preparations
Terminalia ivorensis is prepared as various extracts, including aqueous extracts, which have demonstrated significant antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum. These extracts are often processed into different fractions to isolate active compounds for therapeutic research. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as part of the polyherbal formulation known as Bon-santé cleanser® (BSC). Through these diverse preparation methods, the plant serves as a critical subject in studies regarding both malaria treatment and herbal safety.
Parts used
Terminalia ivorensis serves as a significant medicinal plant in various pharmacological studies targeting protozoan infections. Researchers have identified that both the leaf and the stem components of this species possess notable therapeutic potential. Specifically, extracts from the leaves and stem-bark have demonstrated high anti-Plasmodium activity against malaria parasites. In addition to these findings, studies regarding toxicity levels have utilized the stem bark to establish oral and intraperitoneal LD50 values. These diverse biological activities highlight the importance of utilizing different parts of the plant for potential drug development.