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Paraguayan medicinal compositae
G Schmeda-Hirschmann1, E Bordas
1Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Paraguay.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|February 1, 1990
Summary
This study identified 45 Compositae plant species used in Paraguayan traditional medicine and commerce. Some crude drugs were found to be mixtures of related species, highlighting the complexity of ethnobotanical resources.
Area of Science:
- Ethnobotany
- Pharmacognosy
- Medicinal Plant Research
Background:
- Traditional medicine plays a vital role in Paraguayan healthcare.
- The Compositae family is widely utilized for medicinal and economic purposes by local populations.
- Understanding the composition of traded crude drugs is crucial for quality control and conservation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive survey of Compositae species used in traditional medicine and as economic plants in Paraguay.
- To identify the specific plant components within crude drugs traded by Paraguayan herbalists.
- To discuss the significance of indigenous plant remedies in the local healthcare system.
Main Methods:
- Fieldwork in rural Paraguayan areas to collect plant specimens and gather ethnobotanical data.
- Market surveys and inquiries with herbalists to document traded crude drugs.
- Literature review of Spanish-language resources on Paraguayan flora and traditional medicine.
Main Results:
- Identification of 45 medicinal and economic Compositae species.
- Discovery that some commercially traded crude drugs are composed of mixtures of closely related species.
- Documentation of the ethnobotanical uses and economic importance of these plants.
Conclusions:
- The study provides valuable data on the ethnopharmacology of Paraguayan Compositae.
- The adulteration or natural variation in crude drugs necessitates careful identification and standardization.
- Indigenous plant-based healthcare remains an integral part of the Paraguayan health system.