Satinay (Syncarpia hillii) is a plant with very limited distribution, also called Fraser Island turpentine.
As a common name implies, this tree is from Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia, as well as near coastal regions, and is a tall tree (to approx. 130 ft) known as a very valuable timber resource.
It is tall and straight, as well as fire and termite resistant, and for these reasons makes good marine pylons, as well as many construction and engineering uses.
Used in the building of the Suez Canal, and limited in its distribution, this tree has a limited supply.
Its wood, which is dark pink and close-grained, is also used for flooring, paneling, furniture making and as a decorative veneer.
The Aboriginal word for this plant is “peebang”, and its sap is reportedly useful for treating chronic ulcers, wounds and skin infections.
In phytochemical studies, Satinay has been shown to have a very different essential oil content than other members of the genus. Its essential oil has been reported to contain 53–80% hillyl acetate, 6–12% hillone, 22% α-pinene, a smaller quantity of monoterpenes such as α-thujene, p-cymene, and terpinen-4-ol, and several sesquiterpenes. It has been reported to contain approx.. 8% tannins.
Further investigation has found the methanolic extract of the leaves to contain quercetin-3-O-Beta-Dglucuronide and shikimic acid, and to have antibacterial activity against Staphylococcal species, including biofilm formation.
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*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.