Uapaca guineensis
Uapaca guineensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Uapaca guineensis is a significant tropical tree species known for its diverse ecological and medicinal roles. Researchers have increasingly focused on its chemical properties to discover new therapeutic applications. Specifically, the bark extract of this plant has demonstrated notable medicinal potential. Studies indicate that this preparation exhibits strong antibacterial activities against various pathogens. Consequently, the species serves as a vital subject in the search for natural antimicrobial agents.
- Synonyms
- Uapaca Seretii · Uapaca Gabonensis · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Phyllanthaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Uapaca guineensis is a distinctive tree species known by several different names across various regions. It is frequently referred to by its common French names, such as faux-palétuvier or palétuvier d'eau douce. In certain areas, the plant is also recognized by the name guineanmusukki. English speakers may occasionally identify this species as the red-cedar. Regardless of the name used, this plant remains a notable subject in botanical studies.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Uapaca guineensis is a botanical species that has been identified under several different names throughout its taxonomic history. Within various scientific records, it is recognized by the synonym Uapaca bingervillensis. The plant is also frequently referred to as Uapaca gabonensis in certain botanical contexts. Furthermore, the name Uapaca seretii serves as another valid synonym for this particular species. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate plant identification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Uapaca guineensis is a remarkable organism that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the species is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It is further classified into the order Malpighiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Uapaca, it occupies a unique niche in its ecosystem. Finally, this plant is a distinguished representative of the family Phyllanthaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Uapaca |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Uapaca guineensis is a notable plant species primarily distributed throughout the West Tropical Africa region. Its presence is widely documented across several key nations, including Benin and Ghana. The species also maintains a significant foothold in Guinea and Guinea-Bissau. Furthermore, its natural habitat extends into the Ivory Coast, marking its importance to the local ecosystem. This diverse range underscores its ecological significance within the West African landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Uapaca guineensis is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its natural habitat. This species typically develops a robust growth form that allows it to reach impressive proportions. While it can reach a height of up to 25 meters, some specimens may extend even further. Ultimately, the maximum height recorded for this tree is approximately 27.43 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Uapaca guineensis has demonstrated significant antibacterial potential through the study of various Cameroonian edible plants. Specifically, research into methanol extracts has revealed that the bark of this species exhibits notable activity against certain bacterial strains. In laboratory testing, the bark extract showed effectiveness against E. coli ATCC 8739. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of how secondary metabolites like polyphenols and tannins within these plants can combat pathogens. Ultimately, such botanical resources may offer valuable strategies for treating infections, especially when considering their role alongside conventional antibiotics.
Compounds
Uapaca guineensis serves as a significant subject of interest in the study of Cameroonian edible plants due to its diverse phytochemical profile. Phytochemical screening of these plant extracts revealed the presence of essential secondary metabolites, including sterols, tannins, and polyphenols. Specifically, the bark extract of Uapaca guineensis demonstrated notable antibacterial activity against certain bacterial strains, such as E. coli ATCC 8739. These chemical constituents contribute to the plant's potential role in combating multidrug-resistant phenotypes. Ultimately, such findings suggest that these plant extracts may provide valuable therapeutic options for treating complex infections.
Conditions
Uapaca guineensis bark extract demonstrates significant antibacterial activity against the bacterial strain E. coli ATCC 8739. This specific relationship was identified during a study investigating the medicinal properties of thirteen Cameroonian edible plants. The research utilized the broth microdilution method to evaluate the effectiveness of these methanol extracts. By testing various phytochemicals, the study determined how these plant components interact with Gram-negative phenotypes. Consequently, the bark of Uapaca guineensis stands out as a biologically active agent against this particular Escherichia coli strain.
Preparations
Uapaca guineensis is prepared as a bark extract to investigate its potential medicinal properties. This specific extract was evaluated for its antibacterial activity against various Gram-negative multidrug-resistant phenotypes. The study utilized the broth microdilution method to determine its minimal inhibitory concentration. Notably, the bark extract demonstrated significant activity against the bacterial strain Escherichia coli ATCC 8739. These findings highlight the plant's role in potential treatments for infections involving resistant bacteria.