David A.H. Taylor

Bio: David A.H. Taylor is an academic researcher from University of Natal. The author has contributed to research in topics: Limonoid & Meliaceae. The author has an hindex of 18, co-authored 43 publications receiving 683 citations. Previous affiliations of David A.H. Taylor include Polytechnic University of Milan.

Tetranortriterpenoids and related compounds. Part 22. New apotirucailol derivatives and tetranortriterpenoids from the wood and seeds of chisocheton paniculatus(meliaceae)

Abstract: Five new compounds, the apo-tirucallol derivatives (1), (9), (13), and (16) and the tetranortriterpenoid vilasinin 1,3-diacetate (18), have been isolated from the wood of Chisocheton paniculatus(Meliaceae). From the seeds of the same tree four new tetranortriterpenoids have been obtained, including the γ-lactone (22), the hemiacetal (23), the γ-hydroxybutenolide (24), and 17β-hydroxy-6α-acetoxynimbinin (26). Compounds (22) and (23) are possible precursors of normal furanoid tetranortriterpenoids. 13C and 1H n.m.r. Data for these nine compounds are reported.

Traditional and medicinal uses of mangroves

Abstract: This review examines the recent investigations on the biological activities of extracts and chemicals identified from mangroves (mangroves, mangrove minors and mangal associates). It describes how people have and are using mangroves on a traditional basis. It also describes the world's mangrove resources and products, in terms of their economical importance, medicinal values and other uses and functions. The economical uses of products from mangrove ecosystems are many and varied. Traditionally, the mangroves have been exploited for firewood and charcoal. Use has also been found for mangroves in the construction of dwellings, furniture, boats and fishing gear, tannins for dyeing and leather production. The mangroves provide food and wide variety of traditional products and artefacts for the mangrove dwellers. Extracts and chemicals from mangroves are used mainly in folkloric medicine (e.g. bush medicine), as insecticides and piscicides and these practices continue to this day. However the extraction of novel natural chemical compounds from mangroves, in addition to those already known to the pharmacopoeia of the people is in its infancy. A knowledge of the biological activities and/or chemical constituents of plants is desirable, not only for the discovery of new therapeutic agents, but because such information may be of value in disclosing new sources of already known biologically active compounds. It is of further value to those interested in “deciphering” the actual value of folkloric remedies.

Bioactivities, bioactive compounds and chemical constituents of mangrove plants

Abstract: This review article presents the traditional and medicinal uses, and examines recent investigations on the biological activities of extracts, and chemicals identified from mangroves and mangal associates. Metabolites identified from mangrove plants are classified according to ‘chemical classes’, and some of their structures are illustrated. The article also presents some of the functions of the chemicals present and attempt to emphasize and create an awareness of the great of potential mangroves and mangal associates possess as a source of novel agrochemicals, compounds of medicinal value, and a new source of many already known biologically active compounds.

Meliaceous limonoids: chemistry and biological activities.

Abstract: Natural Science Foundation of China[30000213, 30370160, 30670214]; National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program)[2009CB522300]; Chinese Academy of Sciences

Traditional use of medicinal plants in south-central Zimbabwe: review and perspectives

Abstract: Traditional medicine has remained as the most affordable and easily accessible source of treatment in the primary healthcare system of resource poor communities in Zimbabwe. The local people have a long history of traditional plant usage for medicinal purposes. Despite the increasing acceptance of traditional medicine in Zimbabwe, this rich indigenous knowledge is not adequately documented. Documentation of plants used as traditional medicines is needed so that the knowledge can be preserved and the utilized plants conserved and used sustainably. The primary objective of this paper is to summarize information on traditional uses of medicinal plants in south-central Zimbabwe, identifying research gaps and suggesting perspectives for future research. This study is based on a review of the literature published in scientific journals, books, reports from national, regional and international organizations, theses, conference papers and other grey materials. A total of 93 medicinal plant species representing 41 families and 77 genera are used in south-central Zimbabwe. These plant species are used to treat 18 diseases and disorder categories, with the highest number of species used for gastro-intestinal disorders, followed by sexually transmitted infections, cold, cough and sore throat and gynaecological problems. Shrubs and trees (38% each) were the primary sources of medicinal plants, followed by herbs (21%) and climbers (3%). The therapeutic claims made on medicinal plants documented in south-central Zimbabwe are well supported by literature, with 82.8% of the plant species having similar applications in other regions of Zimbabwe as well as other parts of the world and 89.2% having documented biological and pharmacological properties. This study illustrates the importance of traditional medicines in the treatment and management of human diseases and ailments in south-central Zimbabwe. Traditional medicines still play an important role in meeting basic health care of local communities in Zimbabwe.

Chemical Aspects of Santalin as a Histological Stain

Abstract: Recent research on the chemical nature of the red dyes isolated from Pterocarpus santalinus and certain West African plants, viz., Baphia nitida, Pterocarpus osun and Pterocarpus soyauxii, have been reviewed. P. santalinus contains santalins A, B and C, but no santarubin. Santalins and santarubins have been found in P. osun, P. soyauxii and B. nitida. The structural formulae of the santalins are presented and their differences from santarubins indicated. Santalins A and B have some similarities in structure with hematein. This is probably responsible for their staining properties; the possible mechanism of staining is discussed.