Botanical Overview
Spondianthus preussii belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. The spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) includes an extremely diverse group of plants ranging from small herbs to large trees, many with milky sap that can be irritating or toxic. The flowers are typically small and unisexual, often arranged in distinctive inflorescences. Many species contain diterpene esters and other bioactive compounds.
General Description
It was first described as a genus in 1905. The genus contains only one recognized species, Spondianthus preussii, widespread across much of tropical Africa from Liberia to Mozambique. SubspeciesSpondianthus preussii subsp. glaber (Engl. ) J. Léonard & Nkounkou – from Nigeria to Tanzania south to Angola; also Guinea, Ivory Coast Spondianthus preussii subsp. preussii – from Liberia to ZaireFormerly included.
Family Context
The Euphorbiaceae family is large and globally distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Castorbean — 105 documented uses
- Physic Nut — 95 documented uses
- Queensland Asthma Herb — 53 documented uses
- Spanish Physic Nut — 45 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Spondianthus preussii has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Benin, Congo (DRC), Central African Republic, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: betulinic-acid.