Asia Life Sciences, Vol 18, No 2 (2009)

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Eurycoma longifolia Jack subsp. eglandulosa (Merr.) Noot. (Simaroubaceae): A new distribution record from Palawan Island, Philippines

AIDA C. BAJA-LAPIS, ARMANDO M. PALIJON

Abstract


During the vegetation survey done in Sitio Rio Tuba, Municipality of Bataraza in Palawan Island, subspecies eglandulosa (Merr.) Noot. of Eurycoma longifolia Jack of the Family Simaroubaceae, a small to medium-sized tree, was discovered. The occurrence of this subspecies in this part of the country is a new distribution record for the Philippines. This taxon is known only from Dinagat Island, Surigao Province in Mindanao. This plant is traditionally known to the indigenous people of Palawan as medicinal, specifically for effective cure of hypertension and a variety of ailments. It is claimed to promote vigor among men similar to that of Eurycoma longifolia Jack subsp. longifolia which is commercially known as tongkat ali. This particular subspecies as recently found in Palawan is described here. Some relevant observations and recommendations for its utilization and conservation are also provided.

Key words: Eurycoma longifolia subsp. eglandulosa, tongkat ali, Simaroubaceae, new plant distribution record, medicinal values, aphrodisiac, hypertension, malaria, syphilitic sores, stomach ache, small fox, fever, dysyntery, lumbago, indigestion, intoxification, tonic drink, Palawan Island, Philippines.


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