Abstract

In this study, phytochemical screening and evaluation were done for the antiplasmodial activity using in vitro test in Plasmodium falciparum and in vivo test in murine model (Plasmodium berghei) of the crude ethanolic extract of roots of Amasonia campestris (Aubl.) Moldenke (CEEAc), popularly known as mendoca and according to surveys ethnobotanically performed in this study, it is used as antimalarial in the State of Amapá, Amazonia, Brazil. The results of the phytochemical screening of CEEAc showed the presence of organic acids, reducing sugars, phenols, tannins, alkaloids and anthocyanins. The CEEAc showed reduction of 96% of the parasitic infection with the dose of 90 μg/mL and moderate antiplasmodial activity, with IC₅₀ value of 42.94 μg/mL on the in vitro assay and partial antimalarial activity just on the highest dose tested (1000 mg/kg), with reduction of parasitic infection of 42.1% on the 5th day and of 37% on the seventh day after inoculation. The other doses were considered inactive. This is the first study reporting the use of A. campestris, to perform more detailed studies on its antiplasmodial and phytochemical activities with the aim to isolate bioactive compounds and elucidate the mechanisms of action.

Key words: Malaria, antiplasmodial activity, phytochemistry, Amasonia campestris (Aubl.) Moldenke.