Trema micranthum
Trema micranthum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Trema micranthum is a botanical specimen of significant interest due to its unique chemical composition. This plant contains important cannabinoids, including CBD, CBDA, and Cannabidiolic acid, as well as THC. Researchers and producers often focus on these specific compounds to understand their potential therapeutic properties. To utilize these components effectively, the plant is frequently processed into various high-potency extracts. Such preparations allow for the concentrated application of its diverse chemical profile.
- Synonyms
- Celtis Riparia · Trema Molle · 50 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Cannabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Trema micranthum is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of regional names across different cultures. In certain areas, it is frequently referred to as Almez de flores pequeñas or simply Anisillo. Those speaking French may recognize the species by the names Bois de l'orme or Bois de scie. Additionally, it is sometimes called Bois de soie, reflecting its unique local identity. These diverse common names highlight the widespread recognition and varied uses of this single species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Trema micranthum is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different taxonomic names. In various scientific records, it is recognized by the synonym Calyptracordia alba. The plant is also closely associated with several names within the Celtis genus. Specifically, it has been referred to as Celtis albicans, Celtis canescens, and Celtis chichilea. Additionally, the name Celtis curiandiuba serves as another valid synonym for this particular species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Trema micranthum is a biological organism belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Rosales, highlighting its evolutionary connections. It is a member of the family Cannabaceae, which shares certain botanical characteristics with its relatives. Finally, this species is defined by its placement within the genus Trema.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cannabaceae |
| Genus | Trema |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Trema micranthum exhibits a broad geographical range that spans across diverse international landscapes. In Asia, the species is widely distributed throughout tropical regions, specifically within Indo-China and Myanmar. Its presence extends significantly into North America, where it is established across various parts of Mexico. Within the Mexican territory, it can be found in the Central, Gulf, Northeast, and Northwest regions. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in multiple distinct environmental zones.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Trema micranthum is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This plant reaches impressive proportions, with heights typically ranging from a minimum of 5 meters to a maximum of 25 meters. While many specimens stay within a moderate range, some individuals can grow as tall as 12.5225 meters. Such significant vertical development allows the tree to establish a strong presence within its natural ecosystem. Ultimately, its sturdy structure ensures it remains a stable and prominent feature of the forest landscape.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Trema micranthum has emerged as a promising new botanical source for several key cannabinoids. Recent analytical research confirms that this plant contains cannabidiol (CBD) as well as Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Beyond these neutral forms, the species also hosts their acidic precursors, specifically cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A). Interestingly, these acidic compounds were found to exist in higher concentrations than their neutral counterparts within the plant's tissues. These findings highlight the significant potential of Trema micranthum as a viable alternative for cannabinoid production.
Conditions
Preparations
Trema micranthum is prepared as extracts to facilitate the identification and quantification of cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Researchers obtained these extracts from various plant parts, specifically targeting the fruits, leaves, inflorescences, and stems. A methanol/hexane solvent mixture was utilized during the preparation process to yield these concentrated substances. The resulting extracts from the leaves and fruits provided significant quantities of cannabinoid compounds for analytical study. These prepared extracts serve as the primary medium for exploring the plant's potential as an alternative medicinal source.