Pharmacological screening of plant decoctions commonly used in Cuban folk medicine.

Abstract

Screening for cardiotonic, hypotensive or bronchodilator activities was conducted on 50 species. These are listed with vernacular names, plant parts used and positive or negative responses to tests (conducted on rats and guinea pigs). Eleven species showed promise as therapeutic agents, but additional research is necessary to establish their effectiveness and safety in use. Only one species, Datura candida (leaves), showed significant bronchodilator activity. Eight were hypotensive, the most effective being Annona muricata, Calotropis procera, Cymbopogon citratus, Lepidium virginicum (leaves in all cases) and Rauvolfia ligustrina (roots). Cardiotonic activity was found in the leaves of Nerium oleander and Asclepias curassavica.