Regresar

Preliminary phytochemical screening of pimenta racemosa var. Racemosa (myrtaceae) from tÄchira - venezuela

Abstract:

Pimenta racemosa var. racemosa (Mill.) J. W. Moore, commonly known as Bay-rum, Malagueta, Pepita species and pepper, is a Caribbean tree, belonging to Myrtaceae family, with a special interest in their leaves for the production of essential oil well known as "Bay-Rum". According to literature consulted there are no reports either for phytochemical or pharmacological activities with respect to extracts of this species. The aim of this study was to evaluate extracts from aerial parts (leaves, fruits, stems and bark) and roots of P. racemosa var. racemosa collected in April 2012, in order to perform a preliminary phytochemical screening. All extracts were obtained by maceration, and phytochemical screening was carried out by simple colorimetric and TLC techniques. Results indicated mainly the presence of terpenoids, steroids, saponins, phenolic nuclei, glycosides, tannins, and quinines. This information no only supports the use of this plant in traditional medicine but might be useful for further chemical and biological investigations.