Banisteriopsis Species: A Source of Bioactive of Potential Medical Application
International Journal of Biotechnology for Wellness Industries January 1, 2012 De Frias 16 citations
Plants have been used for millennia to treat and prevent diseases. Banisteriopsis species, notably Banisteriopsis caapi used to prepare the Amazonian psychotropic tea Ayahuasca, contain β-carboline alkaloids such as harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine. Other species in the genus produce metabolites with antimicrobial, anticholinesterase, and antianxiety activities, attributed to alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. This review gathers information on Banisteriopsis extracts and metabolites for potential pharmaceutical use and disease treatment.