Antiallergic potential of a pseudo-stem powder of Musa paradisiaca L. (banana)

Abstract

Introduction Rhinitis and bronchial asthma are very frequent allergic diseases. Despite the availability of a wide range of antiallergic and antiasthmatic drugs, the relief offered by them is mainly symptomatic. 1 Consequently, many patients with chronic allergic conditions seek for medicinal plants as natural, costless and safe therapeutic alternatives. 2, 3 For instance, a descriptive, cross-sectional study among asthmatic patients attending a polyclinics of Camagüey, a Cuban city, showed that 23,5 % of participants used Phytotherapy in the inter-crisis phase, 4 being some nutraceuticals containing Musa paradisiaca L. (banana) pseudo-stem powder or juice 5 among the most appreciated by allergic patients 6 that may be related with the traditional use of this part of the plant for the treatment of cold and asthma in Cuba. 7-13 The anti-inflammatory effect of a M. paradisiaca stem juice methanol extract has been reported. 14 It could contribute to alleviate the symptoms of respiratory complaints. However, there is not information about the