BANISTERIA ANGULOSA Meaning and
Definition
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Banisteria angulosa is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Malpighiaceae. It is commonly known as the "Angled Banisteria." This perennial shrub is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, including countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
The Banisteria angulosa is characterized by its slender, woody stems that can reach lengths of up to 4 meters. The leaves are simple, opposite, and oblong-shaped, with slightly toothed margins. The plant produces small yellow flowers arranged in tight clusters, which give way to small, elongated fruits.
In traditional medicine, Banisteria angulosa has been used for its therapeutic properties. The plant contains various chemical compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids, which are believed to possess medicinal benefits. The extracts of this species have been traditionally used to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomachaches.
In the realm of botanical research, Banisteria angulosa is of interest due to its compounds' potential pharmacological activities. Studies have shown that certain alkaloids extracted from this plant exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These findings suggest that Banisteria angulosa may have potential applications in the development of natural remedies or pharmaceutical drugs.
Overall, Banisteria angulosa is a tropical shrub with yellow flowers and elongated fruits. Its availability in Central and South America, along with its medicinal and pharmacological potential, make it an important plant of botanical and ethnobotanical significance.
Etymology of BANISTERIA ANGULOSA
The etymology of the scientific name "Banisteria angulosa" comes from a combination of two main elements: "Banisteria" and "angulosa".
1. Banisteria: This genus name, Banisteria, is derived from the surname of the English clergyman and naturalist, John Banister (1650–1692). Banister was an early botanist who collected plants in Virginia and was particularly interested in the flora of the American colonies.
2. Angulosa: The specific epithet "angulosa" comes from the Latin word "angulosus", which means "angled" or "angular". It refers to the angular shape or appearance of the plant, particularly its leaves or stems.
So, the scientific name "Banisteria angulosa" is a combination of the generic name honoring the botanist John Banister and the specific epithet describing the plant's angular characteristics.
