Heteropterys tomentosa A. Juss.

Abstract

Heteropterys tomentosa A. Juss. (Syn. Heteropterys aphrodisiaca, Malpighiaceae) is a species that occurs in Brazilian Cerrado, where it is known as nó-de-cachorro and used as a tonic, aphrodisiac, depurative, a treatment for nervous debility, and other uses. Preparations in traditional medicine use the leaves and, mainly, the roots, as a decoction or macerated in alcoholic beverages. The roots of H. tomentosa are obtained mainly by extractivism, which has contributed to the decline of populations of the plant. Agronomic studies indicate that the species is easy to cultivate. There are reports indicating the sale of botanical material from other species as nó-de-cachorro, which indicates the importance of quality control studies. The H. tomentosa roots have flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and other phytochemical classes. The flavonoids astilbin, neoastilbin, and isoastilbin were identified in the plant and an aliphatic nitro compound with antimicrobial activity suggested as a possible marker. Pharmacological tests indicate that the hydroalcoholic extract of H. tomentosa has antioxidant activity and a beneficial effect on memory, especially in aged rats. The aqueous infusion produced positive effects on spermatogenesis and on the reproductive tract of male rats. Preclinical toxicological data are conflicting, indicating that the toxicity depends on the route of administration, dose, and animal species used.