Medicinal Plants Classification Biosynthesis and ... - Index of

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S.M.M. Vasconcelos, J.E.R. Honório Júnior, R.N.D. Cavalcante de Abreu et al.
2.5. Anti-diarrhea Properties
Studies have shown that the spasmogenic and carminative properties of this plant is due
to its capability to contract smooth muscle of gastrointestinal tract (Sharma, 1934).
Latex powder decreased the frequency of diarrhea induced by castor oil (Ricinus
communis L.), suggesting a possible anti-diarrhea activity similar to other drugs, like atropine
and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as phenylbutazone (Kumar, Shivkar, 2004).
2.6. Larvicide Property
Aedes aegypti Linn is the vector of some endemic diseases like dengue and yellow fever.
It is found in Africa and Latin America, mainly in Brazilian Northeast (Ramos et al., 2006).
Many natural products have been suggested as a way of chemical control of these
mosquitoes.
Study performed in the 80‘s showed that C. procera latex has larvicide activity (Girdhar
et al., 1984). It seems that latex is toxic to the eclosion of the eggs and to the larva of A.
aegypti. Such property raises the possibility of a new formula to be used in Programs of
Prevention and Control of A. aegypti and others mosquitoes vectors of diseases (Ramos et al.,
2006).
2.7. Other Important Properties of C. Procera
Alzheimer disease is an organic, chronic and progressive brain disorder, characterized by
multiple cortical dysfunctions, including memory, comprehension, speaking and learning.
Alzheimer disease does not have cure, but pharmacologic treatments can reduce the
symptoms and slow the evolution of the disease. Studies suggest that latex can be used to
treat of early symptoms of Alzheimer disease. Powder of latex reduced the deposition of βamyloid
in mice brain, suggesting a protective and antioxidant activity of this organ (Joshi et
al., 2008).
The spasmolitic effect of aqueous extract of C. procera was assessed in vitro by
experiments using smooth muscle of tracheas of pig. The extract, in doses 50, 100 and
200µg/ml, showed dose dependent relaxant activity of smooth muscle (Iwalewa, Elujoba,
Bankole, 2005).
Ethanolic and aqueous extracts of C. procera roots showed contraceptive effects in
albino female rats. They interfered with estral cycle and inhibited ovulation (Circosa, Sanogo,
Occhiuto, 2001). A strong anti-implant (100% of inhibition) and uterotropic activities were
seen at dose 250mg/Kg (1/4 of LD50). No anti-estrogen activity could be detected (Kamath,
Rana, 2002).
Ingestion of dry and chopped leaves of C. procera by goats, at concentration of 60% in
diet, during 40 days, does not produce clinical or serum enzymatic alterations (Melo et al.,
2001). Thus, C. procera can be used as a complement of animal rations during dry seasons. It