Muntingia calabura(Muntingiaceae) Singapore Cherry

Muntingia calabura (Jamaican Cherry/ Singapore Cherry / Panama Berry)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Muntingia calabura

Family: Muntingiaceae

Genus: Muntingia

Related Herbs from the same family:The Muntingiaceae family is a small family with only three genera. Muntingia calabura is the most prominent and well-studied species within it. Therefore, it does not have widely recognized, related medicinal herbs from the same family in Ayurvedic or South Asian traditions. It is a unique genus in its own family.

Habitat and Context:Muntingia calabura is native to southern Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and western South America. However, it has been widely introduced and naturalized in tropical Southeast Asia, including parts of India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, where it is often found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and home gardens. Its ethnobotanical uses are prominent in these Southeast Asian and South American traditions.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Muntingia calabura | English: Jamaican Cherry, Panama Berry, Singapore Cherry, Strawberry Tree | Tamil: Sarkarai Palam, Panai Maram | Malayalam: Jam Fruit | Hindi: Jangli Meethi | Sanskrit: Not commonly found in classical texts, but may be referred to descriptively as Madhuphala (sweet fruit) in modern contexts | Filipino: Aratiles, Saresa | Spanish: Cacaniqua, Capulín | Indonesian: Kersen, Talok | Thai: Takhop Farang | Vietnamese: Trứng Cá |

3. Medicinal Uses:Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic (Pain-relieving), Antipyretic (Fever-reducing), Antispasmodic, Antibacterial, Antihypertensive (lowers blood pressure), Antidiabetic (Hypoglycemic), Gastroprotective.

Medicinal Parts:The flowers, leaves, fruits, and bark are all used for medicinal purposes in their traditional habitats.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Flavonoids (Rutin, Quercetin, Kaempferol): These are the primary bioactive compounds. Their actions are potent Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, and Vasoprotective (strengthens blood vessels). Rutin is specifically known for improving capillary health.

Tannins: Astringent compounds. Their primary actions are Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory. They also contribute to the Gastroprotective effect by forming a protective layer on the mucous membranes.

Saponins: These compounds have Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to the observed Antihypertensive effects.

Phenolic Acids (Gallic Acid, Caffeic Acid): Powerful Antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, contributing to the plant's overall protective effects against oxidative stress.

Volatile Oils (in flowers): Contribute to the plant's aroma and may have mild Antispasmodic and Sedative effects.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Jwara (Fever) & Shoola (Pain)

Formulation: Leaf decoction.

Preparation & Use: A decoction made by boiling a handful of leaves in water is consumed to reduce fever and relieve headaches, body aches, and cold symptoms.

Reasoning: The antipyretic and analgesic properties of the flavonoids and other compounds help lower body temperature and reduce pain perception.

Raktachapa (Hypertension) & Hridroga (Heart Health)

Formulation: Tea made from flowers or leaves.

Preparation & Use: An infusion of the flowers is consumed regularly as a tea in traditional medicine systems in the Philippines and Peru to manage high blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.

Reasoning: The flavonoids, particularly rutin, help relax blood vessels and improve circulation, thereby helping to reduce blood pressure.

Atisara (Diarrhea) & Graham (Abdominal Cramps)

Formulation: Decoction of bark or leaves.

Preparation & Use: A strong decoction of the bark or leaves is taken to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and the associated abdominal cramps.

Reasoning: The astringent tannins help reduce intestinal inflammation and secretion, while the antispasmodic flavonoids relieve cramping.

Vrana (Wounds) & Twak Vikara (Skin Infections)

Formulation: Crushed leaves or bark paste.

Preparation & Use: Fresh leaves or bark are crushed into a paste and applied topically to wounds, ulcers, and skin rashes to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

Reasoning: The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the tannins and flavonoids promote wound healing and cleanse the affected area.

Prameha (Diabetes)

Formulation: Leaf decoction.

Preparation & Use: The leaf decoction is consumed regularly in some traditions to help lower blood glucose levels.

Reasoning: Studies have indicated that leaf extracts possess significant hypoglycemic activity, potentially by enhancing insulin sensitivity or glucose uptake.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

The fruit is primarily consumed fresh as a sweet, juicy snack. The leaves and flowers are used for medicinal teas.

Muntingia Leaf Tea for Fever and Pain

Purpose: To reduce fever and alleviate headaches or body pains.

Preparation & Use:

• Take a handful of fresh or dried leaves.

• Boil in 2 cups of water for 10-15 minutes.

• Strain and drink the decoction while warm. Can be taken 2-3 times a day.

Muntingia Flower Tea for Hypertension and Relaxation

Purpose: To support cardiovascular health and as a calming drink.

Preparation & Use:

• Take a tablespoon of dried flowers.

• Steep in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.

• Strain and drink. Can be consumed daily.

Fresh Fruit Consumption

Purpose: As a nutritious snack and source of antioxidants.

Preparation & Use:

• The ripe, red fruits are picked and eaten raw. They have a sweet, fig-like flavor.

• Can be used to make jams or jellies.

Topical Leaf Poultice for Skin Issues

Purpose: To treat minor wounds, rashes, or boils.

Preparation & Use:

• Crush a few fresh, clean leaves into a fine paste.

• Apply directly to the affected skin and cover with a clean cloth.

• Replace twice a day.

7. In-Depth Phytochemical Profile and Clinical Significance of Muntingia calabura

Introduction

Muntingia calabura, a fast-growing tree known for its sweet, red berries, is a staple in tropical folk medicine far beyond its culinary appeal. While the fruit is widely consumed, the leaves, flowers, and bark hold the most significant medicinal value. Unlike the tannin-rich Terminalia catappa, the therapeutic profile of M. calabura is dominated by a prolific array of flavonoids, which imbue it with exceptional antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. It is traditionally revered as a potent remedy for gastric ulcers, fever, pain, and inflammation.

1. Flavonoids (The Cornerstone Bioactive Class)

Key Compounds:The leaves, in particular, are a rich repository of diverse flavonoids, which are considered the primary drivers of its biological activities.

• Flavonols: Quercetin, Quercitrin (Quercetin-3-rhamnoside), Rutin, Kaempferol.

• Flavones: Vitexin, Apigenin, Luteolin.

• Flavanones: Naringenin, Pinostrobin.

• Flavan-3-ols: Catechin, Epicatechin (Proanthocyanidins).

Actions and Clinical Relevance:This extensive flavonoid profile is responsible for the plant's most well-documented effects.

• Potent Antioxidant: The high concentration of flavonoids like quercitrin, rutin, and vitexin makes M. calabura one of the most powerful natural antioxidants studied. These compounds effectively neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA. This underpins its anti-aging, anti-cancer, and general protective effects.

• Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic: Flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin are known to inhibit key inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6). This results in significant reduction of inflammation and pain. Extracts have shown efficacy comparable to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and diclofenac, validating its use for headaches, muscle pain, and fever.

• Gastroprotective & Antiulcer: This is a hallmark activity. Compounds like quercitrin, catechin, and flavanones demonstrate a remarkable ability to protect the gastric mucosa from ethanol, stress, and NSAID-induced ulcers. They work by boosting mucosal defense, increasing mucus production, and suppressing acid secretion.

2. Triterpenoids and Sterols

Key Compounds:

• Pentacyclic Triterpenoids: Lupeol, Taraxerol, β-Amyrin, Oleanolic acid.

• Phytosterols: β-Sitosterol, Stigmasterol.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:These compounds act in synergy with flavonoids to enhance and broaden the plant's therapeutic scope.

• Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic (Synergy): Lupeol is a well-researched anti-inflammatory and analgesic triterpenoid. It works through mechanisms distinct from flavonoids, providing a multi-targeted approach to pain and inflammation relief.

• Anticancer Potential: Both lupeol and β-sitosterol have demonstrated antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects against various cancer cell lines (e.g., breast, lung, leukemia) in preclinical studies, often working in concert with flavonoids to induce cell death.

• Cardioprotective: β-Sitosterol is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties, competing with dietary cholesterol for absorption in the intestines.

3. Phenolic Acids and Other Polyphenols

Key Compounds:

• Phenolic Acids: Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, p-Coumaric acid, Protocatechuic acid.

• Hydrolyzable Tannins: Ellagitannins (though less dominant than in Terminalia).

Actions and Clinical Relevance:This group adds another layer of antioxidant and bioactive power.

• Enhanced Antioxidant Capacity: Phenolic acids contribute significantly to the total antioxidant capacity of the plant, scavenging a wide range of reactive oxygen species.

• Antimicrobial Activity: The combined effect of flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, supporting the traditional use of leaf decoctions for skin infections and as a wash for wounds.

4. Other Critical Compounds

Key Compounds:

• Volatile Compounds (in Flowers/Fruit): Linalool, α-Terpineol, Geraniol (contributing to the pleasant aroma of the flowers).

• Fibers and Nutrients (in Fruit): The fruit is rich in Vitamin C, fibers, and anthocyanins.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

• Nutritional Value: The fruit is a healthy snack, providing antioxidants (Vitamin C, anthocyanins) and dietary fiber.

• Adjunctive Effects: The volatile compounds in the flowers may contribute to mild sedative or relaxing effects, aligning with its traditional use to relieve stress and induce sleep.

An Integrated View of Healing in Muntingia calabura

The therapeutic efficacy of Muntingia calabura is a classic example of phytochemical synergy, with its extensive flavonoid portfolio working in concert with triterpenoids and phenolics.

• For Gastroprotection and Ulcer Treatment: The plant offers a multi-faceted defense for the stomach. The Flavonoids (Quercitrin, Catechin) are the primary actors, stimulating mucus synthesis and scavenging free radicals at the ulcer site. Simultaneously, the Triterpenoids (Lupeol) and other flavonoids work to suppress inflammation and inhibit acid-related damage. This combined action makes it a highly effective antiulcer agent.

• As a Comprehensive Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Agent: Pain and inflammation are tackled through a powerful combination of pathways. Flavonoids like Rutin and Quercetin inhibit the cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production. At the same time, the Triterpenoid Lupeol modulates other inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB. This multi-targeted approach results in potent analgesic and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects, justifying its folk name as the "aspirin of the tropics."

• For Antioxidant and Chemopreventive Support: The plant acts as a shield against oxidative stress. The combined force of Flavonoids, Phenolic Acids, and Triterpenoids creates a powerful redox-balancing system within the body. This not only protects against everyday cellular damage but also, through compounds like lupeol and quercetin, can induce apoptosis in precancerous and cancerous cells, highlighting its potential in cancer prevention strategies.

• As a Functional Food and Tonic: From the delicious and nutritious fruit that provides direct dietary antioxidants to the medicinal leaf teas consumed as a general health tonic, the tree bridges nutrition and medicine. Regular consumption of leaf infusions is seen as a preventive measure to maintain gastrointestinal health, reduce systemic inflammation, and bolster the body's antioxidant defenses.

Disclaimer:

Muntingia calabura is generally considered safe when the fruit is consumed in food amounts. The medicinal use of leaves, bark, and flowers is based on traditional use and emerging scientific research, but it is not extensively documented in classical Ayurvedic or modern Western pharmacopoeias. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid medicinal use due to a lack of safety data. Individuals with existing medical conditions or those on medication (especially for blood pressure or diabetes) should consult a healthcare professional before using it therapeutically, as it may potentiate the effects of their medication. This information is for educational and academic purposes only and is not medical advice.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated Dictionary by C.P. Khare

• Antioxidant Properties of Muntingia calabura (Various Phytochemical Research Papers)

• Ethnobotanical Leaflets (Journal for regional traditional uses)

• Philippine Medicinal Plants (Online and offline resources)

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Grewia asiatica (Phalsa)* Species: Grewia asiatica | Family: Malvaceae | Genus: Grewia* Similarities: Both are small, tropical fruit-bearing trees with sweet-tart fruits. Both are used traditionally as a cooling agent, for reducing fever, and as a digestive aid. They share high antioxidant content and are consumed fresh or as refreshing drinks.

2. Eugenia uniflora (Surinam Cherry)* Species: Eugenia uniflora | Family: Myrtaceae | Genus: Eugenia* Similarities: Like Muntingia, Surinam Cherry is a tropical shrub/tree with edible red fruits and medicinal leaves. Its leaves are used in traditional medicine for fevers, digestive issues, and hypertension, mirroring the uses of Muntingia leaves due to similar tannin and flavonoid content.

3. Morus nigra (Black Mulberry)* Species: Morus nigra | Family: Moraceae | Genus: Morus* Similarities: Both trees produce sweet, dark-red to black fruits rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids. The fruits of both are potent antioxidants, and the leaves are used in traditional medicine for their potential anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties.

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References:

Key Online Resources & Scientific References for Muntingia calabura

1. Comprehensive Review Article:

· Title: "Muntingia calabura: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Chemical Properties, and Pharmacological Observations"

· Source: Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine

· Link: PubMed Central (PMC)

· Relevance: This is a foundational review that covers all aspects discussed—traditional uses (analgesic, antipyretic, GI disorders), pharmacological activities (anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cytotoxic), and phytochemical constituents (flavonoids, tannins, etc.). It directly justifies the majority of the claims.

2. For Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Cytotoxic Properties:

· Title: "Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Cytotoxicity of Muntingia calabura Extracts"

· Source: Molecules

· Link: MDPI - Molecules Journal

· Relevance: This study provides experimental evidence for the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, linking them directly to the high flavonoid and phenolic content. It also details the cytotoxic effects on various cancer cell lines.

3. For Gastroprotective and Antidiarrheal Effects:

· Title: "Gastroprotective Effect of Muntingia calabura Leaves Extracts"

· Source: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

· Link: ScienceDirect

· Relevance: This research paper scientifically validates the traditional use for gastric ulcers, demonstrating the anti-ulcer activity of leaf extracts, which is attributed to their flavonoid and tannin content.

4. For Analgesic and Antipyretic Activities:

· Title: "Pharmacological Evaluation of Antinociceptive and Antipyretic Activities of Muntingia calabura Extracts"

· Source: Latin American Journal of Pharmacy

· Link: ResearchGate

· Relevance: This study provides specific experimental data confirming the pain-relieving (analgesic) and fever-reducing (antipyretic) properties of the plant in animal models.

5. For Detailed Phytochemical Analysis:

· Title: "Identification of Flavonoid Compounds and Total Phenolic Content in Muntingia calabura L. Fruit using HPLC-UV-ESI-MS/MS and UV-Vis Methods"

· Source: Pharmacognosy Research

· Link: PubMed Central (PMC)

· Relevance: This paper uses advanced chromatography to identify the specific flavonoid compounds (such as rutin, vitexin, and quercetin derivatives) present in the fruit, providing concrete evidence for the phytochemical claims.

6. For Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties:

· Title: "Antimicrobial Activity of Muntingia calabura Extracts"

· Source: International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

· Link: ResearchGate

· Relevance: This study tests the plant's extracts against various bacteria and fungi, substantiating its traditional use for infections and its classification as an antimicrobial agent.