Problems of Forensic Sciences 2001 Vol. 47 (XLVII) 358-362
PHYTOCHEMICAL AND TOXICOLOGICAL STUDIES OF SOME BOTSWANAN PLANTS USED IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
B. H. MAGORA1,2, Michael D. COLE2
1Botswana Police Forensic Science Laboratory, Gaborone, Botswana
2Forensic Science Unit, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
Streszczenie
In developing countries traditional medicine is used widely as an alternative to conversional medicine; sometimes as the only form of therapy as modern health facilities may not be adequate to reach everybody. The recent introduction of forensic science facilities in Botswana has led to a number of investigations into whether some of the plants used are poisonous or not as they have been implicated in cases of fatal poisoning. Though such prescriptions are often obtained willingly and are given in good faith, when complications arise, the traditional healer often finds himself having to assist the police in their investigations. In this study a selection of these plants is being investigated phytochemically and toxicologically. These include Jatropha seineri pax., Cassia italica Lam. Ex., Asclepias fruticosa L., Albizia harveryi fourn, Argemone mexicana L. and makgonatsotlhe (vernacular name). Argemone mexicana L. was the first plant to be investigated. Preliminary results indicate the presence of protopine-type alkaloids, which are being isolated and identified by spectroscopic methods. Following identification, toxic properties of the compounds will be investigated.
Słowa kluczowe
Argemone Mexican L.; Cassia italica Lam. Ex.; Albizia harveyi fourn; Asclepias fruticosa L.; Jatropha seineri pax; Makgonatsotlhe.