Trichilia havanensis
Trichilia havanensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Trichilia havanensis is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique chemical properties. Researchers primarily focus on the plant's seeds to uncover the medicinal potential held within its biological structure. Studies have specifically utilized acetone extracts of the seeds to isolate various bioactive compounds. Additionally, methanolic extracts are frequently employed to explore the diverse phytochemical profile of this species. Understanding these preparations is essential for advancing knowledge regarding the plant's therapeutic applications.
- Synonyms
- Moschoxylum Odoratum · Moschoxylum Cuneatum · 18 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Trichilia havanensis is a fascinating botanical species recognized by a diverse array of regional names. Commonly referred to as Bastard Lime, it is also frequently identified by the name Bois loraille in certain areas. Depending on the local dialect, one might encounter it called Ciguaraya or even the specific variation known as Ciguaraya macho. Furthermore, the plant is widely known by the moniker Ciruelillo. These various common names reflect the widespread presence and cultural integration of the species across different landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Trichilia havanensis is a complex species characterized by a wide array of botanical synonyms within various taxonomic records. Scientific literature frequently identifies this plant under the names Moschoxylum cuneatum and Moschoxylum odoratum. It has also been classified in different studies as Portesia minor, reflecting shifts in botanical categorization over time. Furthermore, the species is linked to the synonyms Trichilia bakeri and Trichilia davidsoniae. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate identification and consistent communication in plant science.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Trichilia havanensis is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the order Sapindales, which connects it to a specific lineage of flowering plants. As a member of the genus Trichilia, it exhibits unique characteristics shared by its close relatives. Finally, this plant is a distinguished representative of the Meliaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Trichilia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Trichilia havanensis is widely distributed across various regions of Northern America, with a significant presence throughout Mexico. Its range is extensive, stretching across the central territories of the country to encompass the Gulf coast. The species can also be found throughout the northeast and southeast regions of Mexico. Furthermore, its habitat extends into the northwest, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to different climates. This broad geographic footprint highlights the plant's widespread ecological importance across the Mexican landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Trichilia havanensis is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 10 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Its sturdy structure allows it to stand firmly within the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Trichilia havanensis exhibits significant anti-trypanosomal activity against the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. During the screening of Salvadoran flora, methanolic extracts of this specific plant species were tested for their ability to inhibit the parasite. The study revealed that Trichilia havanensis showed effectiveness by reducing T. cruzi viability to ≤ 52.0% at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. This particular relationship highlights the plant's potential role in addressing Chagas disease, which is caused by the infection. Consequently, the extract of Trichilia havanensis serves as a promising candidate in the search for new treatments for this infectious disease.
Preparations
Trichilia havanensis is prepared as an acetone extract of seeds to isolate specific chemical compounds like the tetranortriterpenoid. This specific acetone-based preparation allowed for the identification of a new triterpenoid that functions as an effective antifeedant agent. Additionally, Trichilia havanensis is prepared as methanolic extracts for use in anti-trypanosomal screening studies. These methanolic extracts demonstrated significant activity against the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi during testing. Consequently, the plant can be processed through both acetone and methanolic extraction methods to study its various bioactive properties.
Parts used
Trichilia havanensis serves as the biological source for several unique chemical compounds, including a newly identified tetranortriterpenoid. Researchers successfully isolated this specific compound from an acetone extract derived from the plant's seeds. Through extensive spectroscopic methods and NMR studies, the complex structure of the molecule was definitively established. Beyond its chemical novelty, the compound demonstrated significant biological potential during laboratory testing. Specifically, it functioned as an effective antifeedant agent against Leptinotarsa decemlineata larvae at a concentration of 300 ppm.