Macassar kernels (Brucea javanica, J. Arnold Arbor. 9: 3 (1928))

Family: Simaroubaceae

Author: (L.) Merr.

Bibliography: J. Arnold Arbor. 9: 3 (1928)

Year: 1928

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Brucea

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Trop. & Subtrop. Asia to N. Australia

Description

Macassar Kernels: An In-depth Exploration

Macassar kernels, scientifically known as Brucea javanica, are a fascinating plant species hailing from the extensive Simaroubaceae family. This botanical marvel finds its natural habitat stretching across tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, extending as far as northern Australia. The plant’s journey through history reflects an intriguing blend of botanical and medicinal significance.

Brucea javanica stands out not only because of its adaptability to diverse climates but also due to its historical and medicinal relevance. The species was first meticulously documented in a significant publication by J. Arnold Arbor in 1928, and its classification was attributed to the esteemed botanist Merr. Over the years, Brucea javanica has been studied extensively for its various applications and resilience, earning a noteworthy place in both traditional and modern medicinal practices.

One of the salient features of Brucea javanica is its unique fruit and seed structure. The seeds, commonly referred to as Macassar kernels, have been recognized for their potent medicinal properties. Traditional medicine systems in Asia have long utilized these kernels as a remedy for various ailments. Modern research corroborates some of these traditional uses, revealing that extracts from the seeds contain bioactive compounds with notable anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Ecologically, Brucea javanica thrives in tropical climates, benefiting from the humidity and consistent rainfall characteristic of these regions. Its presence in northern Australia further exemplifies its adaptability, showcasing its ability to prosper in both lush tropical and comparatively arid subtropical environments. The plant’s resilience makes it a subject of study for botanists and agriculturists aiming to understand and leverage its adaptive mechanisms for better cultivation practices.

In summary, Macassar kernels or Brucea javanica is a remarkable plant known for its medicinal seeds and resilience across diverse climates. Its significance ranges from traditional healing practices to modern-day scientific research, embodying a blend of historical wisdom and contemporary scientific inquiry. As we continue to explore its properties and applications, Brucea javanica remains an exemplary illustration of nature’s botanical treasures.

For those interested in delving deeper into the history and scientific discourse surrounding this plant, the seminal work of J. Arnold Arbor, published in 1928, provides a comprehensive foundation.

Common Names

Eng: java brucea, macassar kernels
Swe: gallsumak
Khm: ដាស់រាជ
En: Macassar kernels, Java brucea, Chinese sumac
Zh: 鴉膽子
Km: ដាស់រាជ
Ml: ബ്രൂസിയ ജാവനിക്ക
Su: Walot
Sv: Gallsumak
Zh-tw: 鴉膽子
Th: ราชดัด
Vi: Xoan rừng

Synonyms

• Brucea gracilis (DC.)
• Brucea glabrata (Decne.)
• Rhus fastuosa (Salisb.)
• Brucea sumatrana var. cambodiana (Lecomte)
• Ailanthus gracilis (Salisb.)
• Brucea amarissima ((Lour.) Meyen ex Walp.)
• Rhus affinis (Wall.)
• Brucea sumatrensis (Spreng.)
• Brucea sumatrana (Roxb.)
• Rhus bucki-amelam (Roxb.)
• Lussa amarissima ((Lour.) Kuntze)
• Gonus amarissimus (Lour.)
• Rhus bucku-amela (Wall. ex Lindl.)
• Rhus javanica (L.)
• Tetradium amarissimum ((Lour.) Poir.)
• Rhus bucki-amela (Roxb.)

Distribution

• Andaman Is. (native)
• Assam (native)
• Bismarck Archipelago (native)
• Borneo (native)
• Cambodia (native)
• Caroline Is. (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Hainan (native)
• India (native)
• Jawa (native)
• Laos (native)
• Lesser Sunda Is. (native)
• Malaya (native)
• Maluku (native)
• Myanmar (native)
• New Guinea (native)
• Northern Territory (native)
• Philippines (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Sri Lanka (native)
• Sulawesi (native)
• Sumatera (native)
• Taiwan (native)
• Thailand (native)
• Vietnam (native)
• Fiji (introduced)
• Tadzhikistan (introduced)
• Uzbekistan (introduced)
• Zaïre (introduced)

Additional Images

Other

Taken Jul 25, 1994 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Anonymous (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 14, 1991 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Anonymous (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 13, 1988 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Anonymous (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 14, 1991 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Anonymous (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 26, 1977 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Anonymous (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5555210)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:813610-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Brucea javanica (L.) Merr.)

Specifications

Growth