Biological Factors Influencing Production of Xanthones in Aphloia theiformis

Xanthones, and more specifically mangiferin, are molecules used in cosmetics for their photo-protective and anti-aging properties. The richness in xanthones of Aphloia theiformis leaves, a common shrub in Madagascar, can reach almost 12% (in relation to dry biomass). Amongst the A. theiformis studied, two major groups of individuals have been determined: those presenting a high proportion of mangiferin (up to 80% of the xanthones) and those presenting a high proportion of polar xanthones (not yet identified). Our study shows that: i) for each subject, the xanthone content remains stable over time (no seasonal variation); ii) the majority of the trees developing in the light belong to the first group (rich in mangiferin), whereas the individuals growing in the undergrowth are richer in polar xanthones; iii) the distribution of the two groups seems not to have any correlation with taxonomy and, moreover, with the known varieties of A. theiformis, although the micrantha variety is richer in mangiferin. Overall, this information indicates that A. theiformis is a reservoir of xanthones and makes it possible to define a framework for its reasoned management.