Phytochemical analysis and safety assessment of the extratc of Chuquiraga jussieui J. F. Gmell

Abstract

Plant species that inhabit the Andes, have developed unique features, only found in these ecosystems in the Americas, due to the rough conditions of temperature and altitude that they tolerate. Among these species is the Chuquiraga jussieui JF Gmel, known for its medicinal properties. The whole plant was harvested, dried and powdered. afterwards an aqueous extract was obtained and a phytochemical screening was performed in order to trace secondary metabolites. Skin and eye irritation tests were also performed on rabbits and guinea pigs. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tripterpenos and/or steroids, phenols and/or tannins, resins and flavonoids. Flavonoids were also identified by thin layer chromatography. The study of skin irritability allowed to categorized the compounds as skin non-irritant; the study of ophthalmic irritability classified them as moderate eye irritant, and in albino rabbits, as well; and the sensitization study in guinea pigs classifies them as non-sensitizing. It was concluded that the active ingredients present in the extracts have low toxicity, which allows the development of their biofunctional applications