Argemone ochroleuca: (Papaveraceae), alkaloid potential source for agricultural and medicinal uses

Abstract

Background. The genus Argemone contains 24 species, A. ochorleuca is present in national territory and is used in agriculture and traditional medical treatments for various conditions. Results. A. ochorleuca is an herbaceous and/or perennial plant that blooms all year. This plant had the potential as a source of benzyl isoquinoline alkaloids, which are the main bioactive compounds responsible for antibacterial, antifungal properties. However, some of these compounds are associated with toxic effects too. Information about concentrations and parts of the plant it is important for all uses and applications. Implications. The present work summarizes available information on phytochemical and medicinal properties. Conclusion. In A. ochrolecuca, six of the 45 alkaloids reported for the genus Argemone have been studied, dihydro-keleritrin and dihydro-sanguiranine are the most abundant in the seeds and vegetative tissue of the species. The updated information should be useful to guide future research on this plant.