The value of medicinal plants in Ecuador

Approximately 80% of the world population uses traditional medicine, principally plant-based, to treat diseases [1]. In developing countries, the use of these plants is a valuable resource, and therefore, traditional medicine provides an important alternative to primary health systems [1]. Ecuador is a country which has very high biodiversity and also ancient cultural traditions in the use of plants as a source of medicine. Ethnobotanical studies and associated investigations of natural products provide data which not only helps to preserve these traditions but, contribute in the conservation and protection of these fragile ecosystems. As many phytochemical investigations have based the selection of their target of study from ethnobotanical experience, this review will mention some examples of constituents found in native Ecuadorian species. Flavonol glycosides from Croton menthodorus Breth. (Euphorbiaceae) have been proposed to alleviate symptoms of morphine withdrawal [2]. Minquartynoic acid from Minquartia guianensis Aubl. (Olacaceae) showed strong anti-protozoal activity [3]. Benzophenanthridine alkaloids from Bocconia integrifolia Bonpl. (Papaveraceae) presented antitumoral [4] activity. Acetylated flavonoid glycosides from Scoparia dulcis L. (Scrophulariaceae) enhanced the activity of nerve-growth-factor mediated neurite (PC12D) cells [5] among many others.

Acknowledgements: This research is part of a dissertation funded by the Austrian Exchange Service (ÖAD).

References: [1] Macias, M., et al. (2005) J. Ethnopharmacol. 97: 337–50. [2] Capasso, A. et al. (1998) Pharm. Biol. 36: 310–4. [3] Rasmussen, H., et al. (2000) J. Nat. Prod. 63: 1295–6. [4] Oechslin, S., et al. (1991) J. Nat. Prod. 54: 519–24. [5] Li, Y., et al. (2004) J. Nat. Prod. 67: 725–7.