Botanical Overview
Dipterocarpus glandulosus is a species in the Dipterocarpaceae family. The dipterocarp family (Dipterocarpaceae) includes large tropical trees with simple, alternate leaves and prominent stipules. The fruits are nuts with two or more enlarged wing-like sepals that aid in wind dispersal. These trees dominate many Southeast Asian rainforest canopies and produce valuable timber and resins. Phytochemical data for this species are limited at present.
General Description
It is an emergent tree endemic to southwestern Sri Lanka where grows in scattered populations in lowland evergreen rain forest. It is threatened by habitat loss from expansion of agriculture and by excessive tapping of resin for the traditional painting industry. The species was first described in 1858 by George Henry Kendrick Thwaites.
Geographic Distribution
Dipterocarpus glandulosus has been recorded in India, and Sri Lanka.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 2 compounds in this species: betulin, betulinic-acid.
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. Further ethnobotanical and pharmacological research may reveal additional therapeutic applications for this species.