Abstract

CASADO MARTI, Celia Magaly; GUTIERREZ GAITEN, Yamilet Irene  and  VARONA TORRES, Noel. Evaluation of the quality, safety and antioxidant capacity of Murraya paniculata L and its tincture. Rev Cubana Plant Med [online]. 2014, vol.19, n.2, pp.208-217. ISSN 1028-4796.

Introduction: Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack (Rutaceae) has been traditionally used in our country to treat pain and inflammation caused by osteoarticular disorders. However, there are no reports of studies about such important topics as its quality and safety. The present paper evaluates the potential use of M. paniculata as a therapeutic alternative. Methods: a pharmacognostic study was conducted of the plant drug (fresh leaves of M. paniculata) and its galenic derivative (tincture) which included a macromorphological evaluation of the leaves, determination of numerical indices of quality and phytochemical screening. The tincture obtained was evaluated for organoleptic requirements and numerical indices of quality, and underwent capillary analysis, phytochemical screening and thin-layer chromatography. Preclinical safety was assessed in an acute dermal toxicity study. Antioxidant capacity was examined by FRAP and DPPH. Results: the quality parameters obtained were included in the Guide of Phytomedicines and Apimedicines. Preclinical evaluation of the tincture was satisfactory, since no toxic effects were found. Qualitative DPPH analysis revealed antioxidant capacity and FRAP found an antioxidant power similar to that of vitamin C. Conclusions: results confirm the status of M. paniculata as a safe, effective therapeutic alternative within the natural and traditional medicine stock of our country's health system.

Keywords : Murraya paniculata; pharmacognostic evaluation; antioxidant activity.

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