Vatairea guianensis

Vatairea guianensis · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Vatairea guianensis is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its specific phytochemical profile, notably containing compounds S10 and S11. Research indicates that the plant's leaves possess significant therapeutic potential, particularly when processed into aqueous extracts or lyophilized aqueous extracts. These preparations have demonstrated efficacy in addressing various skin diseases through their biological activity. Furthermore, the extracts show promise in combating infections caused by the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Consequently, this plant serves as a valuable subject in the search for natural antimicrobial and dermatological treatments.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Andira Amazonum · Vatairea Surinamensis · 2 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Fabaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Leaf

Classification

Common Names

Vatairea guianensis is a botanical species widely recognized by its local common name, vatérea guyanská. This plant belongs to a unique group of flora that holds specific significance within its native ecological niche. Understanding its nomenclature is essential for researchers and enthusiasts who study the diverse vegetation of the region. By identifying it through both its scientific and common titles, experts can more accurately document its presence in the wild. Ultimately, this plant represents a vital component of the complex biological relationships found in its natural habitat.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Vatairea guianensis is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different scientific names in various taxonomic records. Depending on the literature used, this plant may be referred to by its synonym Andira amazonum. Researchers also commonly encounter it listed under the name Andira bracteosa in historical studies. Furthermore, the species is sometimes cataloged as Vatairea surinamensis within specific regional databases. Finally, some classifications may even designate it as Vouacapoua amazonum, highlighting the complex naming conventions surrounding this plant.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Vatairea guianensis is a fascinating specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Fabales, which connects it to a diverse range of botanical relatives. It specifically falls under the family Fabaceae, a group known for its significant ecological importance. Ultimately, its unique characteristics are defined by its placement within the genus Vatairea.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Fabales
Family Fabaceae
Genus Vatairea

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Vatairea guianensis is a botanical species primarily distributed throughout the diverse landscapes of Southern America. Its presence is notably widespread across Brazil, spanning from the northern regions to the west-central territories. The plant also thrives across the northern reaches of the continent, establishing itself firmly within French Guiana. Furthermore, its natural habitat extends into the neighboring nations of Guyana and Suriname. This broad geographical range highlights the plant's significant ecological footprint within the South American continent.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Vatairea guianensis is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence within its natural habitat. This species exhibits a robust growth form, allowing it to reach a maximum height of 25 meters. As it matures, the tree becomes a prominent feature of the canopy.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Vatairea guianensis is an Amazonian medicinal plant species traditionally utilized for the treatment of various skin diseases. Chemical investigations of its leaves have revealed that the plant contains a diverse array of prenylated isoflavones. Among these bioactive constituents, two specific antioxidant molecules identified as S10 and S11 have been highlighted for their potential. Research indicates that while both are isoflavones, S10 exhibits a higher antioxidant potential than S11. These findings suggest that the compounds found within Vatairea guianensis hold significant promise for applications in both the pharmacologic and food industries.

Conditions

Vatairea guianensis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its ability to treat both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The plant specifically exhibits inhibitory activity against the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, its extracts possess notable antifungal properties, showing potency against various fungi such as Candida sp. These medicinal characteristics support its traditional use in treating dermatological disorders. Ultimately, the biological activities of the species make it an effective agent for managing various skin diseases.

Preparations

Vatairea guianensis is prepared as aqueous extracts to investigate its potential antimicrobial properties. In these scientific studies, the plant is also specifically prepared as lyophilized aqueous extracts derived from different organs. These different preparations were utilized during in vitro screenings against various pathogenic microorganisms. Through this process, the aqueous extracts of Vatairea guianensis demonstrated inhibitory activity exclusively against Staphylococcus aureus. This specific preparation method allowed researchers to evaluate the plant's effectiveness compared to commercial antibiotics.

Parts used

Vatairea guianensis is a medicinal plant native to the Amazon rainforest that offers significant biochemical potential. Researchers have focused on extracting specific antioxidant molecules, identified as S10 and S11, directly from the plant's leaf. By utilizing density functional theory, studies have examined how these leaf-derived isoflavones interact with different solvents to scavenge hydrogen. The findings reveal that intramolecular hydrogen bonds play a critical role in the antioxidant mechanisms of these leaf extracts. Ultimately, these discoveries suggest that components from the leaves of Vatairea guianensis could be highly valuable for the food and pharmacological industries.