Title

Phytochemical aspects of Jatropha Curcas and its application in health

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

1-1-2016

Publication Title

The Promising Future of Jatropha Curcas: Properties and Potential Applications

Abstract

Jatropha curcas (Euphorbiaceae) is a shrub or small tree native to America but widely cultivated in Asia and Africa; it is recognized as an excellent crop because of its easy adaptation in arid, semi-arid and high rainfall areas and for resistance to pathogens. This species is the most significant of its kind and has been reported for multiple purposes as an alternative source for biodiesel, food and feed, fertilizer production and traditional medicine. The development of research directed towards knowledge and usefulness of these metabolites in J. curcas, have enabled the production of pharmaceuticals, agricultural products, cosmetics and food. In this way, the production of J. curcas is an important resource in the economy of many countries, especially those in the developing economies; because of their cultivation are obtained different marketable products. The pharmaceutical industry has sought to validate the knowledge we have of this plant, as a laxative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, healing, contraceptive, antiviral, and coagulant, among others. In this chapter the phytochemical studies in order to know the main metabolites are presented; as well as some functional and biological aspects of J. curcas, which allow to value this plant for its high medicinal potential. This work will reveal the usefulness of this species, as an example of the chemical diversity offered by plants for the production of active principles. Multiple studies that relate the composition and chemical analysis of each parts of this plant will be analyzed. Also the wide range of biological activities of this species will be discussed, allowing to consolidate it as a promising medicinal plant, but on which we should promote research to continue with the chemical, biological and genetic study, but even more important to determine if these activities are related with toxicity. Therefore, it seeks to make evident the need for systematic studies for toxicity and develop strategies to minimize the toxic effects that can to optimize and take advantage of biological and medicinal properties of Jatropha curcas.

First Page

63

Last Page

86

ISBN

9781634850155,9781634849890

Identifier

SCOPUS_ID:85021987483

Documento original

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