J Ethnopharmacol. 2000 Jul; 71(1-2): 123-31.

A search for natural bioactive compounds in Bolivia through a multidisciplinary approach. Part III. Evaluation Of the antimalarial activity of plants used by AlteÃ±os Indians.

MuÃ±oz V, Sauvain M, Bourdy G, ArrÃ¡zola S, Callapa J, Ruiz G, Choque J, Deharo E.

Instituto Boliviano de Biologia de Altura (IBBA) CP641, La Paz, Bolivia.

A total of 40 plant extracts traditionally used by the AlteÃ±os Indians, a native community living between the Andean block and the tropical valleys of Bolivia, were screened for antimalarial activity in vitro on Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistant (Indo) strain, and in vivo on rodent malaria Plasmodium vinckei petteri. Eleven extracts displayed good or moderate activity in vivo, and ten extracts good or very good antimalarial activity in vitro. Results of the screening are discussed here, in relation with the traditional use of plants.