The African Strychnos species and their alkaloids: a review

A review of the phytochemistry of African Strychnos species and the biological activities of some species as well as of some individual alkaloids isolated from them is presented. Although pharmacological studies of 48 species showed that muscle-relaxant and/or convulsant properties were generally present, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and hypotensive properties among others have also been demonstrated by some of the species and/or alkaloids.