Voacanga africana
| Voacanga africana | |
|---|---|
| Voacanga africana | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom | |
| Phylum | |
| Class | |
| Order | |
| Family | |
| Genus | Voacanga |
| Species | africana |
| Binomial name | Voacanga africana |
| Binomial authority | |
| Synonyms | |
Voacanga africana is a small tropical tree native to West Africa. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae, which includes many other notable plants. The tree is known for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional African medicine for various purposes.
Description
Voacanga africana typically grows to a height of 6-10 meters. The tree has a straight trunk with a smooth, greyish bark. The leaves are evergreen, opposite, and oblong, measuring up to 30 cm in length. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, arranged in terminal clusters. The fruit is a pair of follicles, each containing numerous seeds.
Distribution and Habitat
Voacanga africana is found in the tropical regions of West Africa, including countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. It thrives in rainforests and savannas, often growing in well-drained soils.
Uses
The seeds, bark, and leaves of Voacanga africana have been used in traditional medicine. The seeds contain alkaloids such as voacangine and voacamine, which have been studied for their potential pharmacological effects. The plant is also used in the production of psychoactive substances and has been researched for its potential in treating various ailments.
Traditional Medicine
In traditional African medicine, Voacanga africana is used to treat a variety of conditions, including mental health disorders, infections, and inflammation. The bark and seeds are often prepared as decoctions or infusions.
Modern Research
Recent studies have focused on the potential neuroprotective and antimicrobial properties of Voacanga africana. The alkaloids found in the seeds are of particular interest for their potential therapeutic applications.
Conservation
Voacanga africana is not currently listed as a threatened species. However, habitat destruction and overharvesting for medicinal use could pose future risks to its population.
See Also
References
Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.
W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:
- Most insurances accepted or discounted self-pay rates. We will obtain insurance prior authorizations if needed.
- Generic GLP1 weight loss injections from $125 for the starting dose.
- Also offer prescription weight loss medications including Phentermine, Qsymia, Diethylpropion, Contrave etc.
NYC weight loss doctor appointments
Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.
- Call 718-946-5500 to lose weight in NYC or for medical weight loss in Philadelphia 215-676-2334.
- Tags:NYC medical weight loss, Philadelphia lose weight Zepbound NYC, Budget GLP1 weight loss injections, Wegovy Philadelphia, Wegovy NYC, Philadelphia medical weight loss, Brookly weight loss and Wegovy NYC
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
