Some parameters for the quality control of P. glomerata and P. paniculata roots using their botanical and chemical characteristics are presented. It was also carried out an in vitro pharmacological screening to evaluate some biological properties of P. glomerata that could be related to its popular use as "tonic". Relating to biological assays, ethanolic extract from P. glomerata roots did not present antiviral, antiproliferative, antifungal or MAO inhibitory activities. The cytotoxicity evaluation of P. glomerata determined that IC50 is >2,000 µg/mL. The main morphological and micrographic characteristics of P. glomerata and P. paniculata roots are described in this paper in order to aid in their unequivocal identification.
Pfaffia glomerata; Pfaffia paniculata; Brazilian ginseng; Micrography; Quality control
