Anthraquinones in plants: source, safety and applications in gastrointestinal health

Few subjects are so intensely debated as the use of plant preparations and the putative toxicity or safety of their active compounds. Ardent advocates and opponents can be found for both points of view and debates are still ongoing. The arguments used however, are not always fully scientifically based or only those data supporting a specific point of view are considered. The resulting problem is that very frequently an incomplete picture is given concerning the actual knowledge of the topic. This not only is very confusing but also does not lead to a better understanding of the subject. Therefore it is essential to identify the precise and real issues that need further clarification by scientific research. This book is an attempt to offer a positive contribution to theproblem. Here we have tried to give an overview of the actual scientific knowledge related to the main plant species used to support gastrointestinal health through their stool promoting and/or laxative effects i.e. Senna, Rheum, Frangula and Aloe spp. Botanical, chemical and clinical aspects are considered inaddition to pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety aspects. It is onlyby combining these different approaches that a final and more complete picture can be obtained INDICE: Preface. Introduction. Abbreviations. BOTANICAL ASPECTS. Senna/Cassia. Rheum. Rhamnu. Aloe. CHEMISTRY OF 9,10-ANTHRAQUINONES. Biosynthesis. Oxidation-Reduction and Reactivity. Photochemistry. Phenolic Characteristic. Analysis. Antioxidant and Prooxidant Activities. PHARMACOKINETICS. Conversion by Intestinal Bacteria. Systemic Absorption, Conversion and Elimination. Food Matrix Influences. PHARMACODYNAMICS AND SAFETY ASPECTS. Introduction. Types of laxatives and mode of action. Pharmacodynamics of anthranoids. Toxicity studies. Interactions. CLINICAL ASPECTS. Recommended dose. Use of anthranoid-containing plants in constipation. Use of anthranoid-containing plants in irritable bowelsyndrome. Use of anthranoid-containing plants for bowel cleansing. Use of anthranoids in paediatrics. The use of anthranoids during pregnancy and lactation. Considerations about cancerogenic risks of anthranoids. Clinical safety of anthranoid-containing plant species. Discussion. Index

• ISBN: 978-1-897676-32-5
• Editorial: NOTTINGHAM UNIVERISITY PRESS
• Encuadernacion: Rústica
• Páginas: 176
• Fecha Publicación: 01/07/2010
• Nº Volúmenes: 1
• Idioma: Inglés