Uapaca togoensis
Uapaca togoensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Uapaca togoensis is a botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in traditional medicine. Scientific investigations have focused on the plant's stem, particularly through the use of decoctions and methanol stem bark extracts. These preparations, including methanolic extracts and MEUT, have demonstrated notable analgesic activities. The medicinal efficacy of the plant is largely attributed to its rich concentration of bioactive chemicals such as flavonoids. Consequently, research suggests that Uapaca togoensis may play a role in addressing conditions such as hypertension, Loa loa, and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Synonyms
- Uapaca Perrotii · Uapaca Somon · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Phyllanthaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Synonyms
Uapaca togoensis is a botanical species that is frequently identified through various taxonomic synonyms in scientific literature. It is widely recognized under the alternative name Uapaca chevalieri, reflecting its complex classification history. The plant is also documented as Uapaca guignardii, a name that encompasses several specific variations. This includes the distinct subspecies known as Uapaca guignardii var. sudanica and Uapaca guineensis var. sudanica. Additionally, researchers may encounter this species listed as Uapaca perrotii depending on the botanical context.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Uapaca togoensis is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is specifically categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Malpighiales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. The plant is a member of the Phyllanthaceae family, which defines its broader biological grouping. Finally, it is classified under the genus Uapaca, completing its detailed taxonomic identity.
| 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 togoensis is a versatile plant species with a broad distribution spanning across the African continent. It can be found throughout Northeast Tropical Africa, including regions such as Chad. The species also extends its reach into South Tropical Africa, with a notable presence in Angola. In the western portion of the continent, it thrives within the West Tropical Africa zone. Specifically, its habitat encompasses several key countries including Benin, Burkina Faso, and Ghana.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Uapaca togoensis is a self-supporting species characterized by its distinct tree growth form. This sturdy plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 18 meters. More precise measurements indicate that it can grow to a peak of 18.28822238 meters. Such structural stability makes it a prominent feature within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Uapaca togoensis is a medicinal plant traditionally utilized across Africa to treat various ailments, including rheumatism, fever, and pneumonia. Recent scientific investigations have specifically focused on the analgesic properties found within its methanol stem bark extract. Through studies involving mice, researchers demonstrated that the extract significantly reduces pain responses in a manner comparable to morphine. The findings suggest that this pain-relieving effect is likely mediated through the opioidergic, cholinergic, and ATP-sensitive potassium channel pathways. Consequently, these results provide a deeper mechanistic understanding of how this plant functions as a natural analgesic.
Compounds
Conditions
Uapaca togoensis demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its ability to treat various health conditions. Research indicates that extracts from this plant exhibit in vitro activity against the filarial worm Loa loa. Furthermore, the plant has shown promising in vitro bactericidal activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae, including penicillin-resistant strains. Studies in Guinea also highlight the traditional use of Uapaca togoensis stem bark to treat hypertension. The presence of specific constituents like betulinic acid and lupeol in the plant may support its effectiveness in managing this condition.
Preparations
Uapaca togoensis is prepared as MEUT, an abbreviation for its methanol stem bark extract. This specific methanol stem bark extract is utilized in scientific studies to investigate analgesic mechanisms in mice. In broader traditional medicine contexts, the plant is also prepared as a decoction. Furthermore, the species is processed into various methanolic extracts for testing against biological targets like Loa loa isolates. These diverse preparation methods allow researchers to explore the medicinal potential of the plant's chemical constituents.
Parts used
Uapaca togoensis is a medicinal plant widely utilized in Africa to treat various ailments, including rheumatism, epilepsy, and fever. Scientific investigations have focused specifically on the plant's stem bark to understand its therapeutic properties. In Guinea, the stem bark is frequently cited in traditional herbal remedies used to manage hypertension. Phytochemical analyses of this part of the plant have identified key constituents such as betulinic acid and lupeol. Furthermore, research into methanol extracts of the stem bark suggests that its significant analgesic effects may involve opioidergic, cholinergic, and sensitive potassium ATP channel pathways.