Abstract
The aims of this work were to identify the species sold as quebra-pedras in Porto Alegre, verify signs of toxicity and establish morphological patterns that help to distinguish such species. Those species are believed to be diuretic and are used in popular medicine mainly to treat kidney and bladder affections. The samples (16) were purchased from 14 sellers who work in permanent market stalls or in public marketplaces. A bibliographic revision gathered data on the use of medicinal plants called quebra-pedras in several cities of Rio Grande do Sul. Signs of toxicity, chemical and biological data of these plants were reviewed from different databases and specific bibliography. Seven species were identified among those sold as quebra-pedras in Porto Alegre: Euphorbia prostrata and E. serpens (Euphorbiaceae), Phyllanthus niruri and P. tenellus (Phyllanthaceae), Desmodium incanum (Fabaceae), Cunila microcephala (Lamiaceae) and Heimia salicifolia (Lythraceae). The greater morphological similarity when dried and fragmented plants are sold together was verified between Phyllanthus and Euphorbia.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
