Antimalarial compounds from Parinari capensis.

The antimalarial activity of the raw petroleum ether and dichloromethane extracts of the stems of Parinari capensis (Chrysobalanceae) was determined. Phytochemical investigation of these extracts led to the isolation of three diterpene lactones that possess antimalarial activity with IC(50) values of 0.54, 0.67, and 1.57 microg/mL. Although their antimalarial activity is promising, the toxicity profiles of these diterpene lactones prevent further biological evaluation. They could however be used effectively as lead compounds in the synthesis of novel antimalarial agents.