Variability of Sesquiterpene Lactones in Neurolaena lobata of Different Origin

Abstract

Leaves of Neurolaena lobata (L.) R. Br. originating from Guatemala, were analyzed using HPLC for their qualitative and quantitative sesquiterpene lactone contents. Significant differences in the individual amounts of neurolenins and furanoheliangolides were found between four natural populations. When plants were cultivated on proving fields at two different localities in Guatemala, their sesquiterpene lactone patterns matched the natural population, but differed quantitatively. The meaning of these differences for the use of N. lobata in traditional medicine and its cultivation is discussed.

Key words

Neurolaena lobata - Asteraceae - sesquiterpene lactones - cultivations - natural populations