Antisyphilitic Simarouba (Simarouba antisyphilitica)
Simarouba antisyphilitica (Calunga): Brazilian Cerrado Shrub
Adapted to the fire-prone savannas of the Brazilian Cerrado, this hardy shrub has played a significant role in South American traditional medicine. It serves as an important component of the grassland ecosystems, interacting with local pollinators.
Its ability to tolerate poor soils and seasonal droughts makes it a resilient survivor in challenging habitats. Over the centuries, local communities have valued the plant for its potent roots and bark.
Taxonomy
- ∟ царство Plantae
- ∟ division Tracheophytes
- ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- ∟ Angiosperms
- ∟ mesangiosperms
- ∟ eudicots
- ∟ Superrosids
- ∟ rosids
- ∟ malvids
- ∟ order Sapindales
- ∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
- ∟ genus Simarouba (Paradise tree)
- ∟ species Simarouba antisyphilitica (Antisyphilitic Simarouba)
Morphology
This species usually grows as a deciduous or semi-deciduous shrub, ranging from 1 to 3 meters in height. It has a well-developed underground root system, which helps it regenerate quickly after savanna fires.
Its structural characteristics include:
- Compound leaves: The leaves are pinnate, bearing several obovate to oblanceolate leaflets.
- Leaflet texture: The leaflets are coriaceous and slightly glaucous, providing protection against intense solar radiation.
- Stems: The branches are sturdy with a grayish bark that contains bitter compounds.
The small flowers are greenish-yellow and cluster in dense, terminal panicles. The female plants produce orange-red to purple-black drupes when ripe, attracting birds that assist in seed dispersal.
Flowering season
Late dry season to early wet season
Applications
Historically, the roots and bark were prepared as traditional remedies to treat syphilis, malaria, and chronic fevers. Modern phytochemistry has identified active quassinoids, such as simalikalactone D, within its tissues.
The plant extracts are studied for several biological actions:
- Antiprotozoal and antimalarial effects
- Anti-inflammatory responses
- Gastroprotective activities
Interesting facts
The specific name antisyphilitica was given due to the historical belief that the plant could cure syphilis, a common medical application in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is one of the iconic medicinal plants of the Brazilian Cerrado biome.
Geography of distribution
- Brazil
- Paraguay
- Bolivia
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)