Efecto sobre la propulsión intestinal y análisis fitoquímico preliminar de Aster squamatus (Asteraceae)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Aster squamatus on gastrointestinal propulsion. Phytochemical screening suggested that stalks and roots contain steroids, terpenes, flavonoids, phenols, substances that contain amino-groups, saponins and hydrolysable and condensed tannins. The decoctions of leaves, stalks and roots indicated the presence of caffeic, cinnamic, and sinapic acids. All A. squamatus infusions significantly reduced gastrointestinal propulsion compared to control, whereas the decoctions and ethanolic extracts did not alter this parameter. The effect of the infusions and the lack of activity of the decoctions and ethanolic extracts may be linked to the presence of unstable or volatile con-stituents in the plant.