Duboisia myoporoides

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Duboisia myoporoides flower1

Duboisia myoporoides is a species of flowering plant in the family Solanaceae, commonly known as the corkwood tree. It is native to Australia and is found in the eastern parts of the country, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales.

Description[edit | edit source]

Duboisia myoporoides is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The leaves are lanceolate to ovate, measuring 5-15 cm in length and 1-4 cm in width. The flowers are small, white, and tubular, appearing in clusters. The fruit is a small, black, berry-like drupe.

Habitat[edit | edit source]

This species typically grows in sclerophyll forests, rainforest margins, and woodlands. It prefers well-drained soils and can often be found in areas with a high level of sunlight.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Duboisia myoporoides is notable for its alkaloid content, particularly scopolamine and hyoscyamine. These compounds are used in the pharmaceutical industry for their anticholinergic properties. The plant has been cultivated for these purposes, and its leaves are harvested and processed to extract the valuable alkaloids.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

The cultivation of Duboisia myoporoides involves growing the plant in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight. It is propagated from seeds or cuttings. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season but can tolerate periods of drought once established.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

The alkaloids extracted from Duboisia myoporoides are used in the production of medications for motion sickness, gastrointestinal disorders, and as pre-anesthetic agents. Scopolamine, in particular, is used in transdermal patches to prevent nausea and vomiting.

Conservation[edit | edit source]

While Duboisia myoporoides is not currently listed as a threatened species, habitat destruction and overharvesting for pharmaceutical purposes could pose future risks. Conservation efforts focus on sustainable harvesting practices and habitat preservation.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]



This Solanaceae related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD