Chinchona
| Chinchona | |
|---|---|
| Cinchona | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom | |
| Phylum | |
| Class | |
| Order | |
| Family | |
| Genus | Cinchona |
| Species | ' |
| Binomial name | Cinchona |
| Binomial authority | |
| Synonyms | |
Cinchona is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae. The genus is native to the Andes mountains in South America and is famous for its bark, which contains quinine, a compound used to treat malaria. Cinchona species are large shrubs or small trees, typically reaching 5-15 meters in height. The leaves are opposite, rounded to lanceolate, and about 10–40 cm in length. The flowers are white, pink, or red, and are produced in terminal panicles.
History[edit | edit source]
The medicinal properties of Cinchona bark were originally discovered by the indigenous people of South America. European knowledge of the bark's properties dates back to the 17th century when it was introduced to Europe. It was named after the Countess of Chinchón, the wife of a viceroy of Peru, who was said to have been cured of malaria by using the bark. However, this story is considered apocryphal.
Species[edit | edit source]
There are about 23 species of Cinchona recognized by botanists. Some of the well-known species include:
- Cinchona officinalis – the type species
- Cinchona pubescens
- Cinchona calisaya
Cultivation and Uses[edit | edit source]
Cinchona trees are cultivated in tropical regions around the world, including parts of South America, Africa, and Asia. The bark is harvested from cultivated trees, and quinine extracted from the bark is used in the treatment of malaria. Quinine is also used as a flavor component in tonic water, giving it its distinctive bitter taste.
Conservation[edit | edit source]
Due to overharvesting and habitat loss, several Cinchona species are considered to be at risk of extinction in the wild. Conservation efforts are in place in some areas to ensure the survival of these species, which are important both ecologically and medicinally.
Gallery[edit | edit source]
(Images of various Cinchona species and their habitats)
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
(This article does not include references or external links)
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
