Discovery of new anti-inflammatory drugs from plant origin

C.J. Beukelman, E. van den Worm, C. Henriette, Q. van Ufford, B.H. Kroes, A.J.J. van den Berg

Authors C.J. Beukelman, E. van den Worm, C. Henriette, Q. van Ufford, B.H. Kroes, A.J.J. van den Berg.

Abstract

SUMMARY
From traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda and
Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbs with (assumed) antiinflammatory
properties are taken into study in order to
isolate the active principles. The isolation is guided by biological
activity in relevant bioassays. Here the background
of several bioassays is discussed and some examples are
presented, with special attention to apocynin, a lead compound
intensively studied by our research group as well as
in close co-operation with several other institutes.
Key words: inflammation, herbal medicines, apocynin, experimental
colitis