★ Angostura (Angostura trifoliata)

Angostura (Angostura trifoliata)

Angostura (Angostura trifoliata) – Botany, Geographical Distribution, and Horticultural Information

Botany:

Angostura trifoliata, commonly known as Angostura, is a species belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is an evergreen tree, growing to heights of 18 to 24 meters. The leaves of Angostura trifoliata are distinctive, composed of three ovoid lanceolate leaflets. The flowers of this species are purplish-white, adding to its ornamental appeal.

Geographical Distribution:

Originally native to South America, Angostura trifoliata has a notable presence in the Cuban flora. It is closely related to Angostura ossana, a species endemic to Western Cuba. The distribution of Angostura trifoliata extends to Venezuela, highlighting its adaptability to various tropical environments.

Horticultural Information:

Angostura trifoliata is not only valued for its ornamental qualities but also for its medicinal properties. The bark of the tree is used in the treatment of fevers and is believed to be as effective as quinine. This makes it a significant species in traditional medicine practices in its native regions. Additionally, the bark is used in various aromatic bitters, such as Abbott’s Bitters and Fever-Tree aromatic tonic water. Interestingly, despite its name, Angostura trifoliata is not used in Angostura brand bitters. The plant is also used to flavor foods like candy and ice cream. In a unique application, the bruised bark is used to intoxicate fish, a practice that reflects the diverse uses of the plant in different cultures.

References:

1. “Angostura trifoliata – Wikipedia” – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angostura_trifoliata
2. Beurton, C. (2004). “Angostura ossana (Rutaceae), a component of the Cuban flora.” Willdenowia, 34, 277–289. – https://dx.doi.org/10.3372/wi.34.34122
3. Huang, H., Liang, J.-M., Tan, Q., et al. (2021). “Insights into triterpene synthesis and unsaturated fatty-acid accumulation provided by chromosomal-level genome analysis of Akebia trifoliata subsp. australis.” Horticulture Research, 8, 116. – https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41438-020-00458-y
4. Guan, J., Fu, P., Wang, X., et al. (2022). “Assessment of the Breeding Potential of a Set of Genotypes Selected from a Natural Population of Akebia trifoliata (Three–Leaf Akebia).” Horticulturae, 8(2), 116. – https://dx.doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8020116
5. Gómez-Laurito, J., & Jiménez-Madrigal, Q. (1994). “A new species of Galipea (Rutaceae-Cuspariinae) from Costa Rica and Nicaragua.” – https://dx.doi.org/10.2307/3391442

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Angostura- History, Traditional Herbal & Culinary Uses<

History:

Angostura trifoliata, a plant native to South America, has a rich history intertwined with the cultural and medicinal practices of the region. It was first described in the early 19th century and has since been a subject of botanical interest due to its unique characteristics and uses.

Traditional Herbal Uses:

Traditionally, Angostura trifoliata has been used for its medicinal properties. The bark of the tree is particularly notable for its use in treating fevers. It is believed to be as effective as quinine, a well-known antimalarial drug. This use of the bark reflects the plant’s importance in traditional medicine, especially in areas where access to conventional medicine is limited.

Culinary Uses:

In addition to its medicinal uses, Angostura trifoliata has found its way into culinary applications. The plant is used to flavor various foods, including candies and ice creams, adding a unique taste to these products. Its use in the culinary world is a testament to its versatility and the diverse ways in which different cultures have embraced this plant.

References:

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Herbal, Pharmacological, and Medicinal Studies of Angostura Trifoliata

Angostura trifoliata has been traditionally used in South American indigenous medicine and is known for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating fevers and as an ingredient in aromatic bitters. The bark of Angostura trifoliata is the primary component utilized for medicinal purposes.

2. Pharmacological Properties and Uses:

The bark of Angostura trifoliata is renowned for its effectiveness in treating fevers, rivaling the efficacy of quinine. It is also a key ingredient in various aromatic bitters. The plant’s medicinal usage extends to treating chronic gastritis, dyspepsia, lack of appetite, and gastric hypoacidity.

3. Phytochemical Composition:

Angostura trifoliata contains several phytoconstituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds. These constituents are responsible for the plant’s medicinal properties. Alkaloids present in the bark have shown antispasmodic activity, contributing to its therapeutic potential.

4. Therapeutic Potential of Poncirin:

Poncirin, a flavanone glycoside found in Angostura trifoliata, exhibits significant biological activities. It has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in inhibiting PGE2 and IL-6 production. Poncirin also shows potential against bacterial and viral infections, gastric diseases, and human gastric cancer. Its pharmacological applications include treatments for bone loss, inflammation, colitis, liver injury, and Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Herbal Remedies Involving Angostura Trifoliata:

Angostura trifoliata is included in various herbal medicine compositions, particularly for treating colds.The plant has a reputation as a febrifuge, rivaling the effectiveness of quinine in treating fevers. The plant has been used traditionally in South America for its antipyretic and digestive properties.

References:

1. “Angostura trifoliata (Willd.) T.S.Elias | Plants of the World Online | Kew Science” – https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:771231-1
2. “Angostura trifoliata | Find Me A Cure” – https://findmeacure.com/2011/04/25/angostura-trifoliata/
3. “Angostura trifoliata – Wikipedia” – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angostura_trifoliata
4. “Therapeutic Potential of Poncirin Against Numerous Human Health Complications: Medicinal Uses and Therapeutic Benefit of an Active Principle of Citrus Species.” – D. Patel, 2021 – https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1871530321666210108122924
5. “Herb medicine for remedying cold” – \uae40\uacbd\ud654, 2002 – https://scholar.google.com

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Angostura trifoliata, commonly known as Angostura, is an evergreen tree native to South America. It is particularly noted for its medicinal and flavoring properties. The bark of Angostura trifoliata contains several active compounds that contribute to its therapeutic and culinary uses.

Phytochemicals in Angostura trifoliata

1. Cusparine: An alkaloid found in the bark of Angostura trifoliata, cusparine is known for its antispasmodic activity. This compound is one of the primary active ingredients that contribute to the plant’s medicinal properties.

2. Galipine: Another alkaloid present in the bark, galipine works alongside cusparine to enhance the plant’s medicinal effectiveness. Like cusparine, galipine is recognized for its antispasmodic properties.

3. Essential Oil: The bark of Angostura trifoliata contains an essential oil, which is likely to contribute to its aromatic properties. This essential oil is used to flavor various foods, including bitter tonics, baked goods, candy, and ice cream.

References:

1. “Angostura trifoliata – Useful Tropical Plants” – https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Angostura+trifoliata
2. “Angostura trifoliata – Wikipedia” – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angostura_trifoliata

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Contraindications and Safety of Angostura (Angostura trifoliata)

Angostura trifoliata, commonly known as Angostura, is a small tree native to Venezuela and other tropical parts of South America. The bark of this plant is used for medicinal purposes, but it is important to consider its safety and contraindications.

Safety Profile:

1. General Use: Angostura extract is likely safe for most adults when used in amounts commonly found in foods or drinks. However, there isn’t enough reliable information to determine if Angostura is safe in medicinal amounts, which are typically larger than those found in foods or drinks.

2. Side Effects: In general, Angostura is considered safe when used in food-grade quantities. However, large doses of Angostura might cause nausea and vomiting. This indicates that while it is safe in small amounts, caution should be exercised with higher dosages.

Contraindications:

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking Angostura if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Due to the lack of conclusive evidence, it is recommended to stay on the safe side and avoid its use during these periods.

2. Medicinal Use: Since there is insufficient information on the safety of Angostura in medicinal amounts, it is advised to consult healthcare professionals before using it for therapeutic purposes, especially in doses higher than those typically found in food and drinks.

Precautions:

1. Dosage Considerations: The appropriate dose of Angostura depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and other conditions. Due to the lack of sufficient scientific information, an appropriate range of doses for Angostura cannot be definitively determined.

2. Healthcare Advice: It is crucial to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult with a pharmacist, physician, or other healthcare professional before using Angostura, especially for health-related purposes.

In summary, while Angostura trifoliata is generally considered safe for use in small quantities as found in foods and drinks, caution is advised for its medicinal use, particularly in larger doses. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid its use due to the lack of sufficient safety information. Always consult healthcare professionals for advice on its use for health-related purposes.

References:

1. “Angostura: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions” – https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/angostura.htm
2. “ANGOSTURA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews” – https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-728/angostura