Sterculia setigera
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Scientific Classification ·
Kingdom: Plantae ·
Clade: Tracheophytes ·
Clade: Angiosperms ·
Order: Malvales ·
Family: Malvaceae ·
Genus: Sterculia ·
Species: Sterculia setigera ·
Binomial Name: Sterculia setigera Delile Synonyms: Sterculia tomentosa Guill. & Perr. Common Names: Sterculia gum Local Names: Ose-awere,kukuki Species ID: NMP-169;wfo-0000492484 Description Sterculia setigera, also known as the African tragacanth, is a
deciduous tree that can reach heights of 15-30 meters. It has a distinctive
bark that is smooth and gray when young, becoming rough and fissured with age.
The tree features large, lobed leaves and small, unisexual flowers that are red
to yellow. The fruits are woody capsules that contain several seeds. Distribution and Habitat This species is native to tropical Africa, commonly found in
the Sahel-Sudan and Guinea savannah zones. It thrives in seasonally dry
tropical biomes and is often found in woodlands, savannas, and on rocky
hillsides. Medicinal Properties Sterculia setigera is valued in traditional medicine for its
various applications. The stem bark and other parts of the plant are used to
treat skin ailments, infections, fever, diarrhea, and toothache. The plant
contains bioactive compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, and saponins, which
contribute to its medicinal properties, including antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Known Toxicity While Sterculia setigera is widely used in traditional
medicine, it should be used with caution as some parts of the plant may contain
compounds that could be toxic if consumed in large quantities. There is no
significant evidence of severe toxicity to humans when used appropriately in
traditional medicinal practices. Additional
Information The seeds of Sterculia setigera are consumed by nomadic groups
in Northern Nigeria. The tree is also important for its gum, known as gum karaya,
which is harvested for various commercial applications, including as a food
additive and in pharmaceuticals. The tree plays a crucial role in local
economies and ecosystems due to its multiple uses. References
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More Pictures
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| Compounds of Sterculia setigera | |
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