Abstract
In Brazil, unripe banana as well as the latex obtained from the top of the inflorescence are popularly used in the treatment of gastroduodenal ulcers, especially in the poorest regions. However, adverse effects in fasted subjects treated with unripe banana have been described. Thus, the antiulcerogenic effects of Brazilian banana samples and possible toxic effects of prolonged administration of unripe banana in rats were studied. The analysed samples of Musa paradisiaca showed antiulcer effects in all models employed. Moreover, following 5 weeks of oral treatment with unripe powdered banana, small alterations in some haematologic and biochemical parameters were observed. No significant differences were observed on evaluated physiological parameters. These results provide evidence that treatment with unripe banana is acceptable and could be recommended by official health authorities. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Published Version
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