Pharmaceutical properties and toxicology of Dioclea grandiflora.

CONTEXT: Since the beginning of civilization, herbal medicines have been an important source for human beings to treat their ailments. Despite the large number of synthetic remedies available in the market, the use of plants is seen as a great challenge in the search for new substances endowed with therapeutic properties. One example is Dioclea grandiflora Mart. ex Benth. (Leguminosae) employed in traditional medicine to treat prostate disorders and kidney stones. OBJECTIVES: This work presents a brief overview of D. grandiflora, including a description of the plant, its chemical composition and pharmacological properties. METHODS: This review gathers information available in the scientific literature compiled from databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Dr. Dukes Phytochemical and Ethnobotany, Missouri Botanical Garden and The International Plant Names Index. RESULTS: The information found in the literature showed that flavonoids are the major constituents of D. grandiflora that account for most of the pharmacological properties so far disclosed. Several studies have revealed that D. grandiflora possesses antinociceptive, cardiovascular, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. CONCLUSION: Research shows that D. grandiflora is a potential source of compounds pertaining medicinal applications. It provides an interesting subject in the search for new drugs of natural origin.