RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Epilepsy affects 150,000 people in Peru, with a prevalence of 16.6/1000 and a treatment gap of 75%. Herbal medicine (HM) is widely used in this country. AIM OF THE STUDY: We aimed to assess the use of plants in a rural community in northern Peru as part of therapeutic strategies for people with epilepsy (PWE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was a cross-sectional observational and descriptive study. The inclusion criteria for people with epilepsy were 2 years of age and over, having lived in the study area for at least 3 months and a confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy by a neurologist. The information was gathered through structured interviews using a survey questionnaire. Botanical species used by people with epilepsy or traditional healers were collected and identified. RESULTS: Out of the 228 people with epilepsy included, 60.0% had used herbal remedies and 54.8% both herbal medicine and anti-epileptic drugs. The traditional healer was the first practitioner consulted by 45.2% of people with epilepsy. Sixty-six species have been mentioned by the people with epilepsy and traditional healers on the treatment of epilepsy. Carbamazepine was the most prescribed anti-epileptic drug with 33.2% of prescriptions. CONCLUSIONS: This study was the first to measure a percentage of use of herbal medicine for epilepsy in Peru. It would be interesting to conduct a pharmacological evaluation of the most commonly used species on epileptic models to validate and secure their use.

Asunto(s)

Anticonvulsivantes/uso terapéutico , Epilepsia/tratamiento farmacológico , Plantas Medicinales , Adulto , Anticonvulsivantes/administración & dosificación , Anticonvulsivantes/clasificación , Estudios Transversales , Epilepsia/epidemiología , Femenino , Medicina de Hierbas , Humanos , Medicina Tradicional , Perú/epidemiología , Fitoterapia , Población Rural

RESUMEN

RATIONALE: The highest burden of liver cancer occurs in developing countries, where the use of herbal medicine (HM) is still widespread. Despite this trend, few studies have been conducted to report HM practices of patients with a hepatic tumor in the developing world. Hence, this study aimed to document the use of HM among patients with liver cancer in Peru. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A comparative behavioral epidemiological survey was conducted among liver cancer patients attending the National Cancer Institute of Peru. Information was obtained by direct interviews based on a semistructured questionnaire. The use of HM in Peruvian liver cancer patients was reported, first, regarding general consumption prior to the onset of disease, and second, after the appearance of symptoms that patients would relate to their tumor. In parallel, general consumption of HM in noncancerous people was assessed as a comparative figure. A correspondence analysis was performed to reveal potential associations between the symptoms of cancer and the specific use of HM. RESULTS: Eighty-eight patients and 117 noncancerous individuals participated in the survey. Overall, 68.3% of the people interviewed claimed to use HM on a regular basis for general health preservation. Furthermore, 56.8% of the patients turned to plants first to treat the disorders for which they later came to the cancer care center. When compared with the number of plant species used routinely (n = 78), a selection of plants was made by patients in response to the symptoms of cancer (n = 46). At least 2 plant species, Aloe vera and Morinda citrifolia, were significantly associated with the treatment of liver cancer-related symptoms in the patient group. CONCLUSIONS: The present study is the first survey on the HM practices of patients with liver cancer in Latin America and, more broadly, in the developing world. Our findings confirm that HM remains one of the principal primary health care resources in Peru, even for a severe disease like liver cancer. These traditional, complementary and alternative medicine practices should be taken into consideration in Peruvian health programs aiming to educate the population in cancer prevention and treatment, as well as integrative cancer management.

Asunto(s)

Terapias Complementarias/métodos , Neoplasias Hepáticas/tratamiento farmacológico , Fitoterapia , Adulto , Femenino , Encuestas de Atención de la Salud , Medicina de Hierbas/métodos , Humanos , Medicina Integrativa/métodos , Oncología Integrativa/métodos , Neoplasias Hepáticas/terapia , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Perú , Práctica Profesional , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Biopiracy accusations are common in the world of biodiversity research. At the end of 2015, a French NGO accused researchers from the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD) of biopiracy. These researchers had applied for a patent for a natural bioactive molecule against malaria and cancer, the Simalikalactone E, isolated from Quassia amara L. (Simaroubaceae) leaves. This biopiracy allegation triggered a huge wave of attacks from the media and social networks, and vehement recrimination from political officials in French Guiana against researchers who have been accused of ethical misconduct, by stealing the traditional knowledge of indigenous people. These accusations were made in the contentious context of the ratification of the Nagoya Protocol in the frame of implementing the French law on biodiversity, nature and landscapes. So, in an atmosphere of heightened emotions it is crucial to understand the issues behind these accusations. We describe herein the genesis of our discovery, present the detractors' arguments, and discuss the consequences of such biopiracy denunciations for scientific research. We also address our concerns about the gap between rhetoric and reality and the real impact of the Nagoya Protocol on biodiversity conservation.

Asunto(s)

Patentes como Asunto , Plantas Medicinales , Quassia , Biodiversidad , Guyana Francesa

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis are neglected tropical diseases that occur in all intertropical regions of the world. Amazonian populations have developed an abundant knowledge of the disease and its remedies. Therefore, we undertook to review traditional antileishmanial plants in Amazonia and have developed new tools to analyze this somewhat dispersed information. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A literature review of traditional remedies for cutaneous/mucocutaneous leishmaniasis in the Amazon was conducted and the data obtained was used to calculate distribution indexes designed to highlight the most relevant uses in Amazonia. The cultural distribution index represents the distribution rate of a given taxon among different cultural groups and was calculated as the ratio of the number of groups using the taxon to the total number of groups cited. The geographical distribution index allowed us to quantify spatial distribution of a taxon's uses in Amazonia and was calculated geometrically by measuring the average distance between the points where uses have been reported and the barycenter of those points. The general distribution index was defined as an arithmetic combination of the previous two and provides information on both cultural and spatial criteria. RESULTS: 475 use reports, concerning 291 botanical species belonging to 83 families have been gathered depicted from 29 sources. Uses concern 34 cultural groups. While the use of some taxa appears to be Pan-Amazonian, some others are clearly restricted to small geographical regions. Particular attention has been paid to the recipes and beliefs surrounding treatments. Topical application of the remedies dominated the other means of administration and this deserves particular attention as the main treatments against Neotropical leishmaniasis are painful systemic injections. The data set was analyzed using the previously defined distribution indexes and the most relevant taxa were further discussed from a phytochemical and pharmacological point of view. CONCLUSIONS: The Amazonian biodiversity and cultural heritage host a fantastic amount of data whose systematic investigation should allow a better large-scale understanding of the dynamics of traditional therapies and the consequent discovery of therapeutic solutions for neglected diseases. Distribution indices are indeed powerful tools for emphasizing the most relevant treatments against a given disease and should be very useful in the meta-analysis of other regional pharmacopeia. This focus on renowned remedies that have not yet benefitted from extended laboratory studies, could stimulate future research on new treatments of natural origin for leishmaniasis.

Asunto(s)

Antiprotozoarios/uso terapéutico , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Leishmaniasis/tratamiento farmacológico , Medicina Tradicional/métodos , Fitoterapia/métodos , Extractos Vegetales/uso terapéutico , Antiprotozoarios/aislamiento & purificación , Humanos , Leishmaniasis/diagnóstico , Leishmaniasis/etnología , Medicina Tradicional/tendencias , Fitoterapia/tendencias , Extractos Vegetales/aislamiento & purificación , Plantas Medicinales , América del Sur/etnología , Resultado del Tratamiento

RESUMEN

One new phthalide (1) was isolated from aerial parts of Peperomia nivalis, along with known compounds (2 and 3), reported in this species for the first time. The structure of the new compound was characterised on the basis of 1D (1H and 13C NMR), 2D (COSY, HMQC, HMBC and NOESY) NMR and high-resolution mass spectral (HRMS) data. Compound 2 was isolated from a natural source for the first time but previously synthesised. Compounds 1-3 were evaluated for their anti-Helicobacter pylori and anti-Plasmodium falciparum activities. Compound 1 showed moderate activities against H. pylori (MIC 47.5 µM) and the F32-Tanzania strain of P. falciparum (IC50 8.5 µM). Compounds 2 and 3 exhibited weak anti-H. pylori activity (MIC 241.3 and 237.6 µM, respectively) and were inactive against P. falciparum.

Asunto(s)

Benzofuranos/química , Benzofuranos/farmacología , Peperomia/química , Animales , Antibacterianos/química , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Antimaláricos/química , Antimaláricos/farmacología , Helicobacter pylori/efectos de los fármacos , Espectroscopía de Resonancia Magnética , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Perú , Plasmodium falciparum/efectos de los fármacos , Espectrofotometría Ultravioleta

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Psidium acutangulum Mart. ex DC is a small tree used by the Wayana Amerindians from the Upper-Maroni in French Guiana for the treatment of malaria. AIM OF THE STUDY: In a previous study, we highlighted the in vitro antiplasmodial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of the traditional decoction of P. acutangulum aerial parts. Our goal was then to investigate on the origin of the biological activity of the traditional remedy, and eventually characterize active constituents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Liquid-liquid extractions were performed on the decoction, and the antiplasmodial activity evaluated against chloroquine-resistant FcB1 ([(3)H]-hypoxanthine bioassay) and 7G8 (pLDH bioassay) P. falciparum strains, and on a chloroquine sensitive NF54 ([(3)H]-hypoxanthine bioassay) P. falciparum strain. The ethyl acetate fraction (D) was active and underwent bioguided fractionation. All the isolated compounds were tested on P. falciparum FcB1 strain. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, TNFα) of the ethyl acetate fraction and of an anti-Plasmodium active compound, was concurrently assessed on LPS-stimulated human PBMC and NO secretion inhibition was measured on LPS stimulated RAW murine macrophages. Cytotoxicity of the fractions and pure compounds was measured on VERO cells, L6 mammalian cells, PBMCs, and RAW cells. RESULTS: Fractionation of the ethyl acetate soluble fraction (IC50 ranging from 3.4 to <1µg/mL depending on the parasite strain) led to the isolation of six pure compounds: catechin and five glycosylated quercetin derivatives. These compounds have never been isolated from this plant species. Two of these compounds (wayanin and guaijaverin) were found to be moderately active against P. falciparum FcB1 in vitro (IC50 5.5 and 6.9µM respectively). We proposed the name wayanin during public meetings organized in June 2015 in the Upper-Maroni villages, in homage to the medicinal knowledge of the Wayana population. At 50µg/mL, the ethyl acetate fraction (D) significantly inhibited IL-1ß secretion (-46%) and NO production (-21%), as previously observed for the decoction. The effects of D and guiajaverin (4) on the secretion of other cytokines or NO production were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: The confirmed antiplasmodial activity of the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the decoction and of the isolated compounds support the previous results obtained on the P. acutangulum decoction. The antiplasmodial activity might be due to a mixture of moderately active non-toxic flavonoids. The anti-inflammatory activities were less marked for ethyl acetate fraction (D) than for the decoction.

Asunto(s)

Antiinflamatorios/farmacología , Antimaláricos/farmacología , Flavonoides/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Psidium , Animales , Línea Celular , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Células Cultivadas , Chlorocebus aethiops , Citocinas/metabolismo , Guyana Francesa , Frutas , Humanos , Indígenas Sudamericanos , Leucocitos Mononucleares/efectos de los fármacos , Ratones , Óxido Nítrico/metabolismo , Hojas de la Planta , Tallos de la Planta , Plasmodium falciparum/efectos de los fármacos , Plasmodium falciparum/crecimiento & desarrollo , Células RAW 264.7 , Ratas , Células Vero

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Field investigations highlighted the use of Psidium acutangulum Mart. ex DC (syn. P. persoonii McVaugh), a small tree used by the Wayana Amerindians in Twenke-Taluhwen and Antecume-Pata, French Guiana, for the treatment of malaria, and administered either orally in the form of a decoction or applied externally over the whole body. This use appears limited to the Wayana cultural group in French Guiana and has never been reported anywhere else. Our goal was to evaluate the antimalarial and anti-inflammatory activities of a P. acutangulum decoction to explain the good reputation of this remedy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Interviews with the Wayana inhabitants of Twenke-Taluhwen and Antecume-Pata were conducted within the TRAMAZ project according to the TRAMIL methodology, which is based on a quantitative and qualitative analysis of medicinal plant uses. A decoction of dried aerial parts of P. acutangulum was prepared in consistency with the Wayana recipe. In vitro antiplasmodial assays were performed on chloroquine-resistant FcB1 ([(3)H]-hypoxanthine bioassay) and 7G8 (pLDH bioassay) P. falciparum strains and on chloroquine sensitive NF54 ([(3)H]-hypoxanthine bioassay) P. falciparum strain. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, TNFα) was evaluated on LPS-stimulated human PBMC and NO secretion inhibition was measured on LPS stimulated RAW murine macrophages. Cytotoxicity of the decoction was measured on L6 mammalian cells, PBMCs, and RAW cells. A preliminary evaluation of the in vivo antimalarial activity of the decoction, administered orally twice daily, was assessed by the classical four-day suppressive test against P. berghei NK65 in mice. RESULTS: The decoction displayed a good antiplasmodial activity in vitro against the three tested strains, regardless to the bioassay used, with IC50 values of 3.3µg/mL and 10.3µg/mL against P. falciparum FcB1 and NF54, respectively and 19.0µg/mL against P. falciparum 7G8. It also exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in vitro in a dose dependent manner. At a concentration of 50µg/mL, the decoction inhibited the secretion of the following pro-inflammatory cytokines: TNFα (-18%), IL-1ß (-58%), IL-6 (-32%), IL-8 (-21%). It also exhibited a mild NO secretion inhibition (-13%) at the same concentration. The decoction was non-cytotoxic against L6 cells (IC50>100µg/mL), RAW cells and PBMC. In vivo, 150µL of the decoction given orally twice a day (equivalent to 350mg/kg/day of dried extract) inhibited 39.7% average parasite growth, with more than 50% of inhibition in three mice over five. The absence of response for the two remaining mice, however, induced a strong standard deviation. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted the in vitro antiplasmodial activity of the decoction of P. acutangulum aerial parts, used by Wayana Amerindians from the Upper-Maroni in French Guiana in case of malaria. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, which may help to explain its use against this disease, was demonstrated using models of artificially stimulated cells.

Asunto(s)

Antiinflamatorios/farmacología , Antimaláricos/farmacología , Antiprotozoarios/farmacología , Myrtaceae/química , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Plasmodium falciparum/efectos de los fármacos , Psidium/química , Animales , Antiinflamatorios/química , Antiprotozoarios/química , Línea Celular , Cloroquina/farmacología , Etnofarmacología/métodos , Guyana Francesa , Humanos , Interleucinas/metabolismo , Leucocitos Mononucleares/efectos de los fármacos , Leucocitos Mononucleares/metabolismo , Malaria Falciparum/tratamiento farmacológico , Malaria Falciparum/metabolismo , Ratones , Óxido Nítrico/metabolismo , Extractos Vegetales/química , Plantas Medicinales/química , Factor de Necrosis Tumoral alfa/metabolismo

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The high incidence of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Peru and the wide use of medicinal plants in this country led us to study the activity against HCC cells in vitro of somes species used locally against liver and digestive disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ethnopharmacological survey: Medicinal plant species with a strong convergence of use for liver and digestive diseases were collected fresh in the wild or on markets, in two places of Peru: Chiclayo (Lambayeque department, Chiclayo province) and Huaraz (Ancash department, Huaraz province). Altogether 51 species were collected and 61 ethanol extracts were prepared to be tested. Biological assessment: All extracts were first assessed against the HCC cell line Hep3B according a 3-step multi-parametric phenotypic assay. It included 1) the evaluation of phenotypic changes on cells by light microscopy, 2) the measurement of the antiproliferative activity and 3) the analysis of the cytoskeleton and mitosis by immunofluorescence. Best extracts were further assessed against other HCC cell lines HepG2, PLC/PRF/5 and SNU-182 and their toxicity measured in vitro on primary human hepatocytes. RESULTS: Ethnopharmacological survey: Some of the species collected had a high reputation spreading over the surveyed locations for treating liver problems, i.e. Baccharis genistelloides, Bejaria aestuans, Centaurium pulchellum, Desmodium molliculum, Dipsacus fullonum, Equisetum bogotense, Gentianella spp., Krameria lapacea, Otholobium spp., Schkuhria pinnata, Taraxacum officinale. Hep3B evaluation: Fourteen extracts from 13 species (Achyrocline alata, Ambrosia arborescens, Baccharis latifolia, Hypericum laricifolium, Krameria lappacea, Niphidium crassifolium, Ophryosporus chilca, Orthrosanthus chimboracensis, Otholobium pubescens, Passiflora ligularis, Perezia coerulescens, Perezia multiflora and Schkuhria pinnata) showed a significant antiproliferative activity against Hep3B cells (IC50≤ 50µg/mL). This was associated with a lack of toxicity on primary human hepatocytes in vitro. Immunofluorescence experiments on Hep3B cells showed that crude extracts of Schkuhria pinnata and Orthrosanthus chimboracensis could block Hep3B cells in mitosis with an original phenotype. Crude extracts of Perezia coerulescens, Perezia multiflora, Achyrocline alata, Ophryosporus chilca, Otholobium pubescens and Hypericum laricifolium could modify the overall microtubule cytoskeletal dynamics of Hep3B cells in interphase by an original mechanism. CONCLUSIONS: Our method allowed us to select 9 extracts which displayed antiproliferative activities associated with original cellular phenotypes on Hep3B cells, regarding known microtubule-targeting drugs. Both chemical and cellular studies are ongoing in order to elucidate natural compounds and cellular mechanisms responsible of the activities described.

Asunto(s)

Antineoplásicos Fitogénicos/farmacología , Carcinoma Hepatocelular/tratamiento farmacológico , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Neoplasias Hepáticas/tratamiento farmacológico , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Plantas Medicinales/química , Línea Celular Tumoral , Etnofarmacología/métodos , Células Hep G2 , Humanos , Perú

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Leaves and rhizomes of Renealmia thyrsoidea (Ruiz & Pav.) Poepp. & Endl. traditionally used in the Yanesha pharmacopoeia to treat skin infections such as leishmaniasis ulcers, or to reduce fever were chemically investigated to identify leishmanicidal compounds, as well as PPARγ activators. METHODS: Compounds were isolated through a bioassay-guided fractionation and their structures were determined via detailed spectral analysis. The viability of Leishmania amazonensis axenic amastigotes was assessed by the reduction of tetrazolium salt (MTT), the cytotoxicity on macrophage was evaluated using trypan blue dye exclusion method, while the percentage of infected macrophages was determined microscopically in the intracellular macrophage-infected assay. The CD36, mannose receptor (MR) and dectin-1 mRNA expression on human monocytes-derived macrophages was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. RESULTS: Six sesquiterpenes (1-6), one dihydrobenzofuranone (7) and four flavonoids (8-11) were isolated from the leaves. Alongside, two flavonoids (12-13) and five diarylheptanoids (14-18) were identified in the rhizomes. Leishmanicidal activity against Leishmania amazonensis axenic amastigotes was evaluated for all compounds. Compounds 6, 7, and 11, isolated from the leaves, showed to be the most active derivatives. Diarylheptanoids 14-18 were also screened for their ability to activate PPARγ nuclear receptor in macrophages. Compounds 17 and 18 bearing a Michael acceptor moiety strongly increased the expression of PPARγ target genes such as CD36, Dectin-1 and mannose receptor (MR), thus revealing interesting immunomodulatory properties. CONCLUSIONS: Phytochemical investigation of Renealmia thyrsoidea has led to the isolation of leishmanicidal compounds from the leaves and potent PPARγ activators from the rhizomes. These results are in agreement with the traditional uses of the different parts of Renealmia thyrsoidea.

Asunto(s)

Leishmania mexicana/efectos de los fármacos , PPAR gamma/efectos de los fármacos , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Zingiberaceae/química , Animales , Antiprotozoarios/aislamiento & purificación , Antiprotozoarios/farmacología , Humanos , Macrófagos/efectos de los fármacos , Masculino , Medicina Tradicional , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos BALB C , PPAR gamma/metabolismo , Hojas de la Planta , Reacción en Cadena en Tiempo Real de la Polimerasa , Rizoma

RESUMEN

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: An ethnopharmacological survey has been set up in high altitude Quechua speaking communities dwelling in Callejón de Huaylas (Ancash department, Peru) and in medicinal plant markets in order to document the medicinal plants use of 178 species within the frame of a traditional Andean medicinal system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sound ethnopharmacological survey was performed during the years 2011, 2012 and 2013 in different places along Callejón de Huaylas valley in the peruvian Andes, were Quechua speaking communities dwell. Two different methodologies were used: first, plant uses were recorded during walks with informants and in medicinal plant markets held on a regular bases in the area (Huaraz, Carhuaz, Yungay). Secondly, traditional healers (curanderas, curanderos) were interviewed about their practices and healing sessions were observed, in order to understand better the traditional medicinal system as a whole (disease aetiology, diagnosis, treatments, healers). RESULTS: Altogether, 178 medicinal species were collected. Most of the plants found on the market were also found in the wild and vice-versa. Medicinal plant trade is exclusively held by women, selling their merchandise to local people or to big retailer. Plants are classified according their hot or cold virtues, this in accordance with the local conception of the body physiology and disease aetiology, based on a hot-cold polarity. Main use notified for medicinal plants is "(bath) against cold", a prophylactic measure against diseases of cold nature. Other uses include culture bound illnesses i.e. susto, aire, nervios, or heart pain, commonly cited in South America. Regarding symptoms, rheumatic/arthritic pain, musculoskeletal traumas, cough, pulmonary and respiratory problems, gastritis and stomach ache, were the most frequently cited. Diagnosis and treatment are intrinsically linked together and mainly based upon divination techniques using egg and cuy (Cavia porcellus L., Caviidae). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Medicinal plants use and traditional medicinal practices are still very vivid in Callejón de Huaylas as highlighted by the abundance of medicinal plants traded in the markets. In this business, women have a key position as healers at the family and community level. Medicinal uses of the majority of the species presented here are reported for the first time. Because medicinal plants sold on the market are collected from the wild and also because high altitude medicinal plants are generally small herbaceous species pulled out with their roots, there is a serious risk of over exploitation and extinction of endemic species.

Asunto(s)

Medicina Tradicional , Fitoterapia/métodos , Preparaciones de Plantas/farmacología , Plantas Medicinales/química , Animales , Recolección de Datos , Etnicidad , Etnofarmacología , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Perú

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Up until now, the plant pharmacopoeia of the Chayahuita, an ethnic group from the Peruvian Amazon, has been poorly defined. This paper details the uses of medicinal plants within this community, as recorded in two villages of the Paranapura basin, Soledad and Atahualpa de Conchiyacu. This study aimed to describe the basis of the Chayahuita traditional medical system, to document part of the medicinal plant corpus, and to compare it with data from other Amazonian ethnic groups. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Methodology was based (i) on field prospection with 26 informants (ethnobotanical walks methodology), (ii) semi-structured interviews including 93 people (49 men and 44 women) focused on the most recent health problem experienced and on the therapeutic options chosen, (iii) individual or group thematic discussions relating to disease and treatments, (iv) 6-months of participants' observations between May 2007 and May 2008. At the end of the project in May 2008 a workshop was organized to cross-check the data with the help of 12 of the most interested informants. RESULTS: Six hundred and seventeen voucher specimens were collected, corresponding to 303 different species, from which 274 (belonging to 83 families) are documented here. Altogether 492 recipes were recorded, corresponding to a global figure of 541 therapeutic uses and a total of 664 use reports. The main therapeutic uses are related to dermatological problems (103 uses; 19%), gastro-intestinal complaints (69 uses; 13%) and malaria/fevers (52 uses; 10%). Diseases are analysed according to Chayahuita concepts, and for each disease the species having a high frequency of citation are listed, and the most frequently used remedies are described. Whenever possible, comparisons with other Amazonian groups have been drawn. CONCLUSION: Chayahuita nosology and medical ethnobotany appear to draw their inspiration from a common panamazonian root. Despite the fact that a certain number of medicinal plants are shared with other nearby groups, there seem to be specific uses for some species, thus highlighting the originality of the Chayahuita pharmacopoeia. Presently there is a certain disinterest in the most traditional area of the Chayahuita medical ways, and the role of the penutu (shaman) seems to be less highly-valued than in the past. Nonetheless, the use of medicinal plants in phytotherapeutic treatment is very much a living, shared knowledge.

Asunto(s)

Fitoterapia , Preparaciones de Plantas/uso terapéutico , Plantas Medicinales , Adulto , Etnobotánica , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Medicina Tradicional , Perú , Estructuras de las Plantas

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a neglected disease with a high incidence in French Guiana, mainly in the middle and upper Oyapock basin, where Amerindian and some Brazilian people live. The main goals of this work were (i) to assess the knowledge about leishmaniasis in the different populations of the middle and upper Oyapock basin, (ii) to study the therapeutic strategies adopted by people affected by leishmaniasis and (iii) to document the use of phytotherapeutic remedies for leishmaniasis. Knowledge, attitudes and practices (K.A.P.) related to this disease and its treatments have been studied according to cultural group and geographical settlement. Within the Wayãpi group, the evolution of the knowledge of phytoremedies over the last 20 years has been characterised by literature-based comparisons. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 144 questionnaires were administered in all the villages of the upper Oyapock and Camopi basins. Correspondence analyses were used for multivariate analysis. Plant species were identified at the Cayenne Herbarium (CAY). RESULTS: The biomedical concept of leishmaniasis correlates well with the Teko and Wayãpi concepts of kalasapa and kalasapau. Although the vector of this disease was not correctly identified, the most commonly cited aetiology (74.5%) was vector-borne, and related epidemiological schemes correlate well with the one encountered in French Guiana. Theoretically and practically, health centres were the most commonly used resource for diagnostic in instances of leishmaniasis infection (65.9%), independently of the patient's cultural group, along with the use of pharmaceutical drugs (85.3%). Pharmaceuticals were commonly utilised despite the frequent (51.5%) use of phytotherapeutic remedies, alone or in combination with drugs. The most cited medicinal plant species for the treatment of leishmaniasis included Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb. (Iridaceae, cited 14 times), Euterpe oleracea Mart. (Arecaceae, 9), Cecropia obtusa Trecul (Cecropiaceae, 8), Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae, 7), Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. (Bombacaceae, 6) and Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae, 6). Multiple correspondence analyses demonstrated that the species used in leishmaniasis remedies are more prone to vary by the user's place of residence than by their cultural origin, which indicates that exchange of knowledge about leishmaniasis remedies has occurred across different cultural groups. Literature-based comparisons between the remedies for leishmaniasis used by the Wayãpi during the 1980s showed a striking evolution, both in terms of diversity of species and number of plants used. The large number of species shared with other Guianese groups argues for intercultural exchange and may explain the majority (57.1%) of the newly used species highlighted in our study. CONCLUSIONS: Leishmaniasis is a well-known disease in the studied area. Phytotherapeutic treatments are still in use, although they are not the main source of remedies, and should undergo pharmacological studies to evaluate their potential therapeutic value.

Asunto(s)

Antiprotozoarios/uso terapéutico , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud/etnología , Indígenas Sudamericanos , Leishmaniasis Cutánea/tratamiento farmacológico , Medicina Tradicional , Fitoterapia , Preparaciones de Plantas/uso terapéutico , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Antiprotozoarios/farmacología , Características Culturales , Etnofarmacología , Femenino , Guyana Francesa , Humanos , Leishmaniasis Cutánea/diagnóstico , Leishmaniasis Cutánea/etnología , Leishmaniasis Cutánea/transmisión , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Análisis Multivariante , Preparaciones de Plantas/farmacología , Plantas Medicinales , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Three new caffeic acid esters (1-3), four new lignans (4-7), and the known compounds (7'S)-parabenzlactone (8), dihydrocubebin (9), and justiflorinol (10) have been isolated from leaves of Piper sanguineispicum. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR, HRCIMS, CD experiments, and chemical methods. Compounds 1-10 were assessed for their antileishmanial potential against axenic amastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis. Caffeic acid esters 1 and 3 exhibited the best antileishmanial activity (IC(50) 2.0 and 1.8 µM, respectively) with moderate cytotoxicity on murine macrophages.

Asunto(s)

Ácidos Cafeicos/aislamiento & purificación , Citotoxinas/aislamiento & purificación , Leishmania/efectos de los fármacos , Lignanos/aislamiento & purificación , Macrófagos/efectos de los fármacos , Piper/química , Animales , Ácidos Cafeicos/química , Ácidos Cafeicos/farmacología , Chlorocebus aethiops , Citotoxinas/química , Citotoxinas/farmacología , Dioxolanos/química , Dioxolanos/aislamiento & purificación , Ensayos de Selección de Medicamentos Antitumorales , Ésteres , Femenino , Concentración 50 Inhibidora , Lignanos/química , Lignanos/farmacología , Ratones , Resonancia Magnética Nuclear Biomolecular , Perú , Hojas de la Planta/química , Células Vero

RESUMEN

Yanesha, also called Amuesha, is a group of amerindian people, belonging to the arawak linguistic family. They dwell in the central region of Peru, at the oriental foothills of the Andes. Their territory covers a large range of ecological settings, and communities spread from 1800 down to 400 m/snm. The Yanesha culture is vivid to this day, and people strongly rely on traditional medicine in their everyday life. An exhaustive ethnopharmacological survey leads us to collect 249 species with medicinal uses. An overview of the Yanesha pharmacopoeia, linked with ethnomedicinal practices is presented in this paper.

Asunto(s)

Etnofarmacología/métodos , Indígenas Sudamericanos , Medicina Tradicional/métodos , Fitoterapia , Plantas Medicinales , Bancos de Muestras Biológicas , Terapia Combinada , Recolección de Datos/métodos , Composición de Medicamentos/métodos , Femenino , Conocimientos, Actitudes y Práctica en Salud , Humanos , Masculino , Perú , Farmacopeas como Asunto , Extractos Vegetales/uso terapéutico , Estructuras de las Plantas , Chamanismo , Terapias Espirituales

RESUMEN

AIM OF THE STUDY: Ninety-four ethanolic extracts of plants used medicinally by the Yanesha, an Amazonian Peruvian ethnic group, for affections related to leishmaniasis and malaria were screened in vitro against Leishmania amazonensis amastigotes and against a Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistant strain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The viability of Leishmania amazonensis amastigote stages was assessed by the reduction of tetrazolium salt (MTT) while the impact on Plasmodium falciparum was determined by measuring the incorporation of radio-labelled hypoxanthine. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Six plant species displayed good activity against Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistant strain (IC(50) < 10 microg/ml): a Monimiaceae, Siparuna aspera (Ruiz & Pavon), A. DC., two Zingiberaceae, Renealmia thyrsoidea (Ruiz & Pavon) Poepp. & Endl. and Renealmia alpinia (Rottb.), two Piperaceae (Piper aduncum L. and Piper sp.) and the leaves of Jacaranda copaia (Aubl.) D. Don (Bignoniaceae). Eight species displayed interesting leishmanicidal activities (IC50 < 10 microg/ml): Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae), Piper dennisii Trel (Piperaceae), Hedychium coronarium J. König (Zingiberaceae), Cestrum racemosum Ruiz & Pav. (Solanaceae), Renealmia alpinia (Rottb.) Zingiberaceae, Lantana sp. (Verbenaceae), Hyptis lacustris A. St.-Hil. ex Benth. (Lamiaceae) and Calea montana Klat. (Asteraceae). Most of them are used against skin affections by Yanesha people. Results are discussed herein, according to the traditional use of the plants and compared with data obtained from the literature.

Asunto(s)

Antimaláricos/farmacología , Leishmania/efectos de los fármacos , Magnoliopsida , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Plantas Medicinales , Plasmodium falciparum/efectos de los fármacos , Tripanocidas/farmacología , Animales , Resistencia a Medicamentos , Estadios del Ciclo de Vida , Medicina Tradicional , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Parasitaria , Perú

RESUMEN

Piper glabratum and P. acutifolium were analyzed for their content of main secondary constituents, affording nine new benzoic acid derivatives (1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 10-13), in addition to four known compounds (3, 6, 8, and 9). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. Riguera ester reactions and optical rotation measurements established the new compounds as racemates. In the search for antiparasitic agents, the compounds were evaluated in vitro against the promastigote forms of Leishmania spp., Trypanosoma cruzi, and Plasmodium falciparum. Among the evaluated compounds, methyl 3,4-dihydroxy-5-(3'-methyl-2'-butenyl)benzoate (7) exhibited leishmanicidal effect (IC50 13.8-18.5 microg/mL) against the three Leishmania strains used, and methyl 3,4-dihydroxy-5-(2-hydroxy-3-methylbutenyl)benzoate (1), methyl 4-hydroxy-3-(2-hydroxy-3-methyl-3-butenyl)benzoate (3), and methyl 3,4-dihydroxy-5-(3-methyl-2-butenyl) benzoate (7) showed significant trypanocidal activity, with IC50 values of 16.4, 15.6, and 18.5 microg/mL, respectively.

Asunto(s)

Antiparasitarios/aislamiento & purificación , Antiparasitarios/farmacología , Antiprotozoarios/aislamiento & purificación , Antiprotozoarios/farmacología , Benzoatos/aislamiento & purificación , Benzoatos/farmacología , Piper/química , Plantas Medicinales/química , Animales , Antimaláricos , Antiparasitarios/química , Antiprotozoarios/química , Benzoatos/química , Bolivia , Leishmania/efectos de los fármacos , Estructura Molecular , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Parasitaria , Hojas de la Planta/química , Plasmodium falciparum/efectos de los fármacos , Trypanosoma cruzi/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

Usos tradicionales de plantas medicinales utilizadas por indigenas de las zonas del Chaco y los bañados del Izozog, recopila informacion etnobotanica recogida durante mas de tres años en comunidades guaranies del chaco Boliviano

Asunto(s)

Bolivia , Medicina Tradicional , Plantas Medicinales

RESUMEN

El presente trabajo ha formado parte del proyecto Conservación Ambiental a través de la Valoración Etnobotánica y Etnofarmacológica en Bolivia II: Etnia Tacana, financiado por el Fondo Nacional de Medio Ambiente Cuenta Iniciativa para las Américas (FONAMAEIA). Los extractos de diclorometano de 14 especies vegetales del género Piper fueron evaluados in vitro por su actividad antifúngica contra Neurospora crassa y antiparasitaria contra Leishmania braziliensis L. donovanii, L. amazonensis. Las especies con actividad interesante fueron Piper aduncum, P. elongatum Vahl, P. actifolium, P. Pilliraneum C.DC y P. hispidum, Mediante estudios cromatográficos biodirigidos, se han aislado e identificado compuestos responsables de la actividad antifúngica y leishmanicida de P. aduncum como 5,7-dihidroxiflavanona, 5,7-dihidroxi-4metoxi-flavanona, Acido 3-(3', 7'-dimetil-3', 6'-octadienil)-4-metyoxibenzoico. Las estructuras fueron definidas por métodos espectroscópicos, y de RMN de 1H y 13C (1 y 2D)

Asunto(s)

Antifúngicos/uso terapéutico , Técnicas In Vitro , Extractos Vegetales

RESUMEN

Contiene: Comer bien; desnutricion; agua y salud, anemia; bichos o gusanera, diarrea sin sangre y diarrea con sangre, fiebre; hepatitis, fiebre amarilla; paludismo, dolor de espalda; reumatismo; pasmo; orina sangre; mal de ojo; dolor de garganta, dolor de muela, dolor de oidos; empeine o tiña; sabañon, sarna o escabiosis, hongos -algodoncillo; puchichi; quemaduras; espundia; tos sin fiebre; tos con fiebre, neumonia,tuberculosis; embarazos peligrosos, partos dificiles; despues del parto, cuidado para el recien nacido; amamantamiento, tetanos, vacunas; tus derechos para mejorar tu salud; como usar las medicinas de la farmacia de este libro, posologia de las medicinas mencionadas en este libro, tratamiento contra fiebre, dolores , reumatismo, tratamiento con antibioticos, contra dolor de oidos, amigdalitis,tos con fiebre, puchichis,dolor de muela; tratamiento contra el paludismo, tratamiento contra la anemia, pomadas y gotas oftalmicas para el recien nacido; pomadas contra las quemaduras; receta del suero casero

Asunto(s)

Plantas Medicinales , Medicina Tradicional , Clasificación Internacional de Enfermedades