Phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicity of Rhazya stricta decne: a review.

Phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of the medicinal plant Rhazya stricta Decne. are reviewed. Several types of alkaloids and a few flavonoids have been isolated and their structures and stereochemistry characterized. However, in most cases the biological activity of these compounds has not been studied. Most of the pharmacological activity of the plant resides in its alkaloidal fractions which cause depression of the central nervous system and hypotension. Extracts of R. stricta appear to have low toxicity, although its use in pregnant women may be inadvisable. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.