Cymbopogon Citratus and its Polyphenols as Phytotherapeutic Products

ISBN-13: 9783659917141 / Angielski / Miękka / 2016 / 400 str.

Gustavo Franco Ferreira Costa

Opis

Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae), commonly known as lemongrass, is a tropical perennial shrub originated from the Southeast Asia. This plant is reported to possess antifungal, insecticidal, anti-diabetic, anti-septic, anti-mutagenic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, some phenolic compounds, such as flavone glycosides and condensed tannins, were identified and related to the anti-inflammatory properties. Cc infusion and flavonoid and tannin fractions were orally administered to rats, in order to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect. The observed effect of edema inhibition was very similar to that obtained by the reference NSAID used. The topical anti-inflammatory activity of Cc was also addressed, suggesting that luteolin 7-O-neohesperidoside, cassiaoccidentalin B, carlinoside and cynaroside contribute to the topical anti-inflammatory activity, and that the two fractions possess a significant synergistic effect. This book demonstrates the infusion anti-inflammatory activity, in safe doses, using an in vivo approach, which supports the traditional use of lemongrass infusion, encouraging the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs or nutraceuticals.

O autorze

PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, specialty of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra. Master in Pharmaceutical Sciences, postgraduate in plant-based medicinal and health products. Author of 12 papers, 1 book chapter and 8 oral communications. Member of the Portuguese Society of Phytochemistry and Phytotherapy.