Poster: Ecophysiology

Abs # 15: Phytomedicinal Compounds in Caribbean Mangrove Plants

Presenter:	Martinez, Terry T, terrymartinez@rocketmail.com
Authors	Martinez, Terry T (A)   Martinez, Ruth R (A)
Affiliations:	(A): Toxicologic Associates Inc.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the chemistry of the main species of mangrove used in folk medicine in the tropical Americas. Samples of these three species, Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove), Avicennia germinans (black mangrove), and Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove) were collected in Vierques, Puerto Rico. Local folk healers were inteviewed to determine traditional medicinal uses of all three mangroves. Mangrove resin, which contains tannins with astringent properties, has been used for treating diarrhea and dysentery. Decoctions of mangrove have been used as gargles for the treatment of throat cancer and as external rubefacients. Hormones and metabolite found in mangroves have been shown to have antibacterial properties. Some mangrove components may be toxic, as well. Mangroves have evolved a unique biology to survive in coastal areas that are hostile to other types of plants. Their natural chemistry requires further study for possible drug development.