Draft:Abuta brunnescens

The species within the Abuta genus exhibit remarkable diversity. They can be dioecious climbers, occasionally erect trees, or shrubs. The leaves are simple, and the flowers form composed panicles. Male Flowers: These have 6 sepals arranged in two whorls, absent petals, 6 stamens, and introrse anthers with longitudinal or transverse dehiscence. Female Flowers: Similar to male flowers in terms of sepals and petals, but with 6 staminodes and 3 carpels. The drupes are ovoid, with a woody endocarp and curved embryos. Taxonomy Abuta is typically classified in the tribe Anomospermeae, alongside Anomospermum. Notably, the genera Anelasma and Batschia have been synonymized with Abuta. Uses Curare Component: Abuta plays a crucial role in the arrow poison curare, used by indigenous tribes in South America (especially Abuta imene from Colombia). Medicinal Roots: The roots of Abuta rufescens are employed in urogenital tract diseases, although caution is advised due to potential dangers. Larvicidal Properties: Dichloromethane extracts from Abuta grandifolia and Minthostachys setosa demonstrated high larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti, with A. grandifolia being the most effective.