Marta E. Petenatti

Evaluation of macro and microminerals in crude drugs and infusions of five herbs widely used as sedatives

It has been determined the concentration of fourteen micro and macrominerals (Al, Ca, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Se, and Zn) in both crude drugs and infusions of Melissa officinalis L., Lamiaceae, Nepeta cataria L., Lamiaceae, Passiflora caerulea L., Passifloraceae, Tilia x moltkei Spath ex C.K. Schneid., Tiliaceae, and Valeriana officinalis L., Caprifoliaceae. These herbs are widely consumed by its sedative properties, either alone or in herb mixtures. All measurements were performed using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). The products were obtained from regional markets, mainly in San Luis province (Argentina). The estimated daily intake was compared with current recommendations. All products and its infusions were included within the upper tolerable limits for minerals, in trace elements such as toxic elements present at low levels.

Records of Medicinal Plants Utilized as Gastroprotective and for Treatment of Gastrointestinal Ulcers, Gastritis, and Heartburn in Argentina: A Survey of the Literature

Traditional knowledge available on 148 plant species used in Argentina for gastroprotection and treating gastrointestinal ulcers, gastritis, and heartburn, was compiled to analyze their taxonomic grouping, floristic richness, the life form, and organs used, and to determine their susceptibility to over-collection.