Abstract

CARVAJAL ROJAS, Lyndon; HATA URIBE, Yoshie; SIERRA MARTINEZ, Noralba  and  RUEDA NINO, Diana. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of Cupatá (Strychnos schultesiana krukoff) stems and seeds. Colomb. for. [online]. 2009, vol.12, n.1, pp.161-170. ISSN 0120-0739.

In order to improve the knowledge of Colombian flora, particularly that belonging to the llanos orientales region, Strychnos schultesiana Krukoff was chosen for a chemical composition in-depth study to establish a potential utility in medicinal or industrial fields. For this analysis, a preliminary phytochemical study of three organs of the plant -steams, seeds and leafs- was made; the purpose was to find the main secondary metabolites associated with biological activities: alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, antracenic derivates, steroids, coumarins, cardiotonic glycosides and terpenic lactones. The main compounds were alkaloids. This fact was expected, as this species belongs to the genus Strhychnos, widely known because of its high alkaloid content. In addition, the existence of flavonoids in the studied organs of the plant is very remarkable. These compounds are well known as scavengers, useful in prevention of diseases related with oxidative processes. Finally, the results of this work are very useful as a first approach to the knowledge and utility of the vegetal species found in this location. Furthermore, this plant has big agronomical advantages related with the culture establishment, which improves the rational use of natural resources in our country, as a means of regional and national development.

Keywords : Strychnos; preliminary phytochemical study; alkaloids.

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