Phytochemical characterization of traditional villagers’ remedies in Madagascar: Brachylaena ramiflora decoctions and infusions

Malagasy flora can provide a wide variety of medicinal plants as an affordable alternative to expensive western medicine. In particular, it can be inferred that the forest of Maromizaha is a source of important raw materials for plant-derived pharmaceuticals: a relevant number of valuable drugs has yet to be discovered from its flora. The aim of this study was a phytochemical fingerprint of Brachylaena ramiflora leaves infusions and bark decoctions by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector and their relative antioxidant activity, in order to characterize this species as source of bioactive compounds. Sixteen and 23 biomarkers were identified in B. ramiflora leaf infusions and bark decoctions, respectively: the main compounds identified in the infusions were quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and γ-terpinene, while the major components in the decoctions were castalagin, citric acid, and chlorogenic acid. According to these results, it may be suggested that B. ramiflora could be considered as a promising source of natural antioxidants that may provide health benefits: it is hoped that further studies will generate an interest in the proper sustainable production, processing, and commercialization of B. ramiflora for medicinal purposes. Moreover, medicinal plant exploitation has a link with biodiversity conservation: the valorization of medicinal plants may increase local incentives to preserve and manage the habitat. The development of pharmaceuticals based on a sustainable exploitation of wild medicinal plants or their cultivation by local villagers could offer a number of benefits to a wide range of people as an alternative source of income and a natural and accessible health remedy.