Anxiogenic Properties of Ptychopetalum Olacoides Benth. (Marapuama).

da Silva A. L., et al.
Phytotherapy Research, 2002

Abstract

Alcohol infusions of roots of Ptychopetalum olacoides Benth. (PO), known as Marapuama or Muirapuama, are used in the Brazilian Amazon as a 'nerve tonic'. Over the years PO has been found increasingly in phytoformulations and regarded as a stimulant, claimed to enhance physical and mental performances. This study determined that a P. olacoides ethanol extract (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg) decreased exploratory behaviour in the hole-board test, without interfering with locomotion or motor coordination (rota-rod test). The data are comparable to that obtained with pentylenetetrazol (40 mg/kg), suggesting an anxiogenic effect of P. olacoides.

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Clinical Toxicology Study of an Herbal Medicinal Extract of Paullinia Cupana, Trichilia Catigua, Ptychopetalum Olacoides and Zingiber Officinale (Catuama) in Healthy Volunteers.