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<p><b>New page</b></p><div>[[File:Picrasma_quassioides.jpg|Picrasma quassioides|thumb]] '''Picrasma''' is a [[genus]] of [[flowering plants]] in the family [[Simaroubaceae]], native to tropical regions of the [[Americas]] and [[Asia]]. The genus is known for its species that possess medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine systems across their native ranges. The most well-known species within this genus is ''Picrasma excelsa'', commonly referred to as the [[Quassia amara|Bitterwood]] or Quassia, due to its intensely bitter taste which is attributed to the presence of chemical compounds such as quassinoids.<br />
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== Description ==<br />
Plants in the genus ''Picrasma'' are typically small to medium-sized [[trees]] or [[shrubs]]. They are characterized by their compound [[leaves]], small, inconspicuous [[flowers]], and the production of fruits that are small [[berries]] or [[drupes]]. The wood and bark of these plants contain quassinoids, which are responsible for their bitter taste and are believed to have various [[pharmacological]] properties.<br />
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== Distribution and Habitat ==<br />
''Picrasma'' species are found in a wide range of habitats from lowland tropical forests to mountainous regions. They are distributed across the tropical regions of the Americas and Asia, with each species having its own specific range. For example, ''Picrasma excelsa'' is primarily found in the Caribbean and parts of South America.<br />
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== Uses ==<br />
The wood and bark of ''Picrasma'' species have been used in traditional medicine for their supposed antipyretic, antiparasitic, and digestive properties. ''Picrasma excelsa'', in particular, has been used to make a bitter tonic that is believed to stimulate digestion and improve appetite. Additionally, the wood is sometimes used in the manufacture of furniture and as a natural insecticide.<br />
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== Conservation ==<br />
While some species of ''Picrasma'' are common within their range, others face threats from habitat destruction and overharvesting due to their medicinal and economic value. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the sustainability of these species in the wild.<br />
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== Taxonomy ==<br />
The taxonomy of ''Picrasma'' has been subject to revision, and the genus is closely related to other genera in the Simaroubaceae family, such as ''[[Quassia]]''. Molecular phylogenetic studies continue to refine the understanding of relationships within this family.<br />
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== Species ==<br />
The genus ''Picrasma'' comprises several species, including:<br />
* ''Picrasma excelsa'' (Bitterwood)<br />
* ''Picrasma javanica''<br />
* ''Picrasma quassioides''<br />
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== See Also ==<br />
* [[Simaroubaceae]]<br />
* [[Medicinal plants]]<br />
* [[Traditional medicine]]<br />
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[[Category:Simaroubaceae]]<br />
[[Category:Medicinal plants]]<br />
[[Category:Flora of the Americas]]<br />
[[Category:Flora of Asia]]<br />
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