Syzygium guineense
|
|
Scientific
Classification: Kingdom: Plantae Synonyms:
Syzygium guineense subsp. guineense,
afromontanum, barotsense, and huillense. Common Names: Syzygium guineense Local Names: Watter-berry.rose
apple Species ID: NMP-173;wfo-0000318724;NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 334482 Basic
Description Syzygium
guineense, commonly known as the water pear, is a versatile plant that can grow
as a tree, shrub, or pyrophytic subshrub. Typically, the tree reaches heights
of 10 to 15 meters, but some specimens can grow up to 25 meters. The tree
features a broad, fluted trunk, a rounded crown, and smooth bark that becomes
rough and black with age. Leaves are shiny, smooth, and dark green, with young
leaves displaying a purple-red hue. The flowers are white with showy stamens,
producing a sweet honey-like fragrance that attracts insects. Distribution
and Habitat Syzygium
guineense is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and extends to the
southwestern Arabian Peninsula. It thrives in various habitats, including
lowland and montane forests, forest edges, woodlands, humid savannas, swamps,
and mangrove edges. It prefers moist soils, often found beside rivers, but can
also grow in open woodlands at elevations from sea level up to 2,500 meters. Medicinal
Properties This
plant is utilized in traditional African medicine. An infusion of the roots is
used for bathing patients with severe illnesses, and a decoction of the bark
and roots serves as a purgative. The leaf extract has demonstrated antimalarial
properties in vitro and in vivo, showing significant antiplasmodial activity in
rodent models. Antimicrobial and Antidiarrheal:
Extracts from the tree have been employed to combat infections and diarrheal
diseases. Pain and Fever:
Traditionally, it's used to alleviate pain and reduce fevers. Digestive Health:
Some cultures use parts of the tree to address digestive disorders. Wound Healing: The
bark, in particular, may be used in some traditional medicine systems for its
wound-healing properties. Toxicity While
Syzygium guineense has medicinal benefits, caution is necessary due to its
potential toxicity. The bark, in particular, can be toxic, and there have been
recorded deaths from its misuse as a purgative. Additional
Information The
wood of Syzygium guineense is pale red, hard, and durable, making it useful for
various purposes. The fruit is edible, consumed both raw and cooked, and used
to make beverages and vinegar. The tree is also valued for its ecological
benefits, such as providing shade and serving as a food source for birds and
other wildlife. References
External Links
More Pictures
|
|
| Compounds of Syzygium guineense | |
| References |
