Insights into the Bioactivities and Chemical Analysis of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle

Abstract

Many species of the so-called exotic plants coexist with native species in a balanced way, but others thrive very quickly and escape human control, becoming harmful—these are called invasive alien species. In addition to overcoming geographic barriers, these species can defeat biotic and abiotic barriers, maintaining stable populations. Ailanthus altissima is no exception; it is disseminated worldwide and is considered high risk due to its easy propagation and resistance to external environmental factors. Currently, it has no particular use other than ornamental, even though it is used to treat epilepsy, diarrhea, asthma, ophthalmic diseases, and seborrhoea in Chinese medicine. Considering its rich composition in alkaloids, terpenoids, sterols, and flavonoids, doubtlessly, its use in medicine or other fields can be maximised. This review will focus on the knowledge of the chemical composition and the discovery of the biological properties of A. altissima to understand this plant better and maximise its possible use for purposes such as medicine, pharmacy, or the food industry. Methods for the extraction and detection to know the chemical composition will also be discussed in detail.

Characterisation of the Phenolic Profile of Acacia retinodes and Acacia mearnsii Flowers’ Extracts

“…The samples were then analysed by a high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector (HPLC/DAD) to identify the other compounds and further complement the initial detection and phytochemical characterisation. Our group has some experience concerning the quantification of phenolic compounds [ 36 , 37 , 38 , 39 ]. Thus, compound identification was carried out by comparing their retention times with those obtained from analytical standards.…”

Secondary Metabolites and Their Applications

“…However, these species can also be quite helpful to humans, providing a complex number of services, which makes it difficult to assess their positive and negative effects. Caramelo et al [20] review the knowledge of the chemical composition and the discovery of the biological properties of one such invasive alien species-Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle-and its potential use as medicine and additive by the pharmacy and food industries.…”

Phytochemical Profile and Anticancer Activity from Medicinal Plants Against Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Review

“…Swingle, known as the tree of heaven, is widespread in Europe and North America (Sladonja et al, 2015), China (Okunade et al, 2003), and Korea (Meihua et al, 2009), belonging to the Simaroubaceae family (Sladonja et al, 2015). A. altissima is mainly found in cities, agricultural fields, and transportation corridors (Caramelo et al, 2021). A. altissima is used in traditional Chinese medicine uses it to treat certain disorders such as epilepsy, diarrhea, asthma, eye diseases, and seborrhoea.…”

“…In addition, the bark is used for dysentery, menorrhagia, and spermatorrhea. For intestinal problems lasting several months, it is recommended to boil the bark with water and then drink the liquid along with gin (Kowarik et al, 2007;Sladonja et al, 2015;Caramelo et al, 2021).…”