Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 36 (1992) 113- 125 Elsevier Scientific Publishers Ireland Ltd. 113 Traditional phytotherapy in the Peninsula Sorrentina, Campania, Southern Italy Vincenzo De Fee”, Rita Aquino”, Alessandro Menghinib, Eliseo Ramundoa and Felice Senatorea “Dipartimento di Chimica delle Sostanze Naturali dell’Universitb di Napoli, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Napoli and ‘Dipariimento di Biologia Vegetale dell’llniversitb di Perugia, Borg0 XX Giugno, 74, 06100 Perugia (Italy) (Received May 12, 1989; revision received December 4, 1991; accepted December 8, 1991) A study on the wild and cultivated medicinal plants used in the Peninsula Sorrentina (southern Italy) is reported; 129 plants distributed among 53 different families belonging to Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms are used in the treatment of various human diseases. The use of some species is reported for the first time in this paper. Key words: traditional phytotherapy; medicinal plants; Italy Introduction The plant kingdom represents a source of food and medicine. Therefore, with the tendency in modern medicine to assimilate and re-assimilate natural remedies in common practice, under various forms, the potential of regional flora becomes important. This paper, as a continuation of two foregoing communications (Capasso et al., 1982; Antonone et al., 1988), deals with the traditional phyto- therapy in the Peninsula of Sorrento and explores the possibilities for a more extensive utilization of medicinal plants to the benefit of the health of country people and the regional economy. The area subjected to our investigation is a table-land of about 40 km* in Campania, on the south-west versant of the peninsula Sorrentina (Fig. l), with a population of 30 000 inhabitants. It includes Agerola and some lands of Gragnano, Lettere, Pimonte (Naples Province), some areas of Amalfi, Conca dei Marini, Furore and Praiano (Salerno Province). No previous studies have been conducted on this subject matter in this area, ex- cept for a very old study, concerning a contiguous Correspondence to: Dr. F. Senatore, Dipartimento di Chimica delle Sostanze Naturali dell’Universita di Napoli, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy. geographic region (Pasquale and Avellino, 1841). The flora of the study area is essentially of the Mediterranean type (Mediterranean, sub- Mediterranean and sub-montane) and exhibits a great number of very interesting species. Methodology The ethnobotanic data for this report have been obtained by interviewing the residents in the study area, who still utilize some herbal remedies today in addition to modern medicine. Information was also obtained from some older people who have jealously guarded herbal prescriptions, thus play- ing an important role in the conservation and use of these folk remedies. During the course of the field study, conducted from March, 1987 to September, 1989, 120 individuals were interview- ed. Each interview was conducted using as the focus a plant specimen given by the individual in- terviewed, who also provided the common name and its medicinal uses. Each specimen was then pressed, labeled, dried and deposited in the her- barium of the Department of Chemistry of Natu- ral Substances of the University of Naples. Taxonomic determination of these specimens was made by comparison with identified specimens at the herbarium and by the use of Flora Ztalica (Zangheri, 1976).
Traditional phytotherapy in the Peninsula Sorrentina, Campania, Southern Italy
Vincenzo De Fee”, Rita Aquino”, Alessandro Menghinib, Eliseo Ramundoa and Felice Senatorea
“Dipartimento di Chimica delle Sostanze Naturali dell’Universitb di Napoli, Via Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Napoli and ‘Dipariimento di Biologia Vegetale dell’llniversitb di Perugia, Borg0 XX Giugno, 74, 06100 Perugia (Italy)
(Received May 12, 1989; revision received December 4, 1991; accepted December 8, 1991)
A study on the wild and cultivated medicinal plants used in the Peninsula Sorrentina (southern Italy) is reported; 129 plants
distributed among 53 different families belonging to Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms are used in the treatment of
various human diseases. The use of some species is reported for the first time in this paper.
Key words: traditional phytotherapy; medicinal plants; Italy
Introduction
The plant kingdom represents a source of food and medicine. Therefore, with the tendency in modern medicine to assimilate and re-assimilate natural remedies in common practice, under various forms, the potential of regional flora becomes important.
This paper, as a continuation of two foregoing communications (Capasso et al., 1982; Antonone et al., 1988), deals with the traditional phyto- therapy in the Peninsula of Sorrento and explores the possibilities for a more extensive utilization of medicinal plants to the benefit of the health of country people and the regional economy.
The area subjected to our investigation is a table-land of about 40 km* in Campania, on the south-west versant of the peninsula Sorrentina (Fig. l), with a population of 30 000 inhabitants. It includes Agerola and some lands of Gragnano, Lettere, Pimonte (Naples Province), some areas of Amalfi, Conca dei Marini, Furore and Praiano (Salerno Province). No previous studies have been conducted on this subject matter in this area, ex- cept for a very old study, concerning a contiguous
Correspondence to: Dr. F. Senatore, Dipartimento di Chimica
delle Sostanze Naturali dell’Universita di Napoli, Via
Domenico Montesano, 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
geographic region (Pasquale and Avellino, 1841). The flora of the study area is essentially of the
Mediterranean type (Mediterranean, sub- Mediterranean and sub-montane) and exhibits a great number of very interesting species.
Methodology
The ethnobotanic data for this report have been obtained by interviewing the residents in the study area, who still utilize some herbal remedies today in addition to modern medicine. Information was also obtained from some older people who have jealously guarded herbal prescriptions, thus play- ing an important role in the conservation and use of these folk remedies. During the course of the field study, conducted from March, 1987 to September, 1989, 120 individuals were interview- ed. Each interview was conducted using as the focus a plant specimen given by the individual in- terviewed, who also provided the common name and its medicinal uses. Each specimen was then pressed, labeled, dried and deposited in the her- barium of the Department of Chemistry of Natu- ral Substances of the University of Naples. Taxonomic determination of these specimens was made by comparison with identified specimens at the herbarium and by the use of Flora Ztalica
(Zangheri, 1976).
Fig. 1. Map of the survey areas. Districts of (1) Agerola; (2) Gragnano; (3) Lettere; (4) Pimonte; (5) Amalfi;
(7) Furore; (8) Praiano. (6) Conca dei Marini;
Results
The data obtained cover species of
Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms. The crude drugs are generally employed in the dried state by using traditional methods of
preparation, namely, decoction, infusion, tinc- tures, medicated wines, cataplasms and direct ex- ternal application by rubbing.
Often, a decoction called ‘a terzi’ (‘to third’) is used: this decoction is ready for use when a star- ting volumeof water is boiled until it is reduced to one third.
For each of these crude drugs, we report in
alphabetical order the family, the scientific name of the plant and, in parentheses, the more common Italian name. Whenever possible, the local names are listed also in italics. Voucher herbarium
specimens are indicated in parentheses, using letter and number codes, following the common names. The parts of the plant utilized, the methods of preparation, the use and the posology are then
indicated.
The nomenclature of the plants is based on the Flora Italica (Zangheri, 1976).
AMARYLLIDACEAE
Narcissus poeticus L. (Narciso, narcisio) (cultivated) (N 6)
The bulbs, cut in small pieces and after addition of honey, are administered externally as a decon- gestant against traumas. This preparation is claim- ed to be very effective to help remove splinters.
APOCYNACEAE
Nerium oleander L. (Oleandro, leandro) (N I) The flowers, dried in the sun and smoked, are
claimed to have an antiasthmatic action.
Vinca minor L. (Pervinca, sciure ‘e ciuccie) (V 7) A decoction (30 g of fresh plant in 1 1 of water)
is used externally as an anti-ecchymotic and as a washing to treat sores and wounds.
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AQUIFOLIACEAE
Ilex aquifolium L. (Agrifoglio, arefuoglio) (I IS) A decoction (40 g of leaves in 1 1 of water for
20-30 min) taken 2-3 cups a day after adding sug- ar, is claimed to be an antirheumatic. The sugared decoction of the bark (30 g of trunk bark in 1 1 of water for 20-25 min; 2 tablespoonfuls, 3-4 times a day) is used against fever.
ARACEAE
Arum italicum Miller (Gigaro, pane ‘e serpe) (A
10) The ground rhizomes are used as decongestants
in the treatment of contusions.
ARALIACEAE
Hedera helix L. (Edera, ellera) (H 7) A decoction (80-100 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of
water, boiled until the water has evaporated to l/3 of the starting volume), is used as a plaster against pains of traumatic and rheumatic origin, especially lumbago.
As a plaster, the rhizome is used against hemor- rhoids. The decoction (20 g of dried leaves in 1 1 of water; 2 cups a day, one in the morning before meals, the other in the evening) is used to treat col- itis. Combined with a purge, it is claimed to have a vermifuge action.
A decoction (50 g of dried plant in 1 1 of water) is used in the treatment of common colds and bronchial catarrh. Dosage: 2 or 3 cups a day with plenty of sugar, taken while hot.
Pulmonaria officinalis L. (Pulmonaria, erva pur- monara) (P 3)
A decoction (40 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of water) is used in the treatment of asthmatic and catarrhal diseases.
Symphytum tuberosum L. ssp. tuberosum (Sintito, cugliunciello) (S IO)
The pounded tubers, spread on wounds and sores, is claimed to act as a cicatrizant.
CACTACEAE
0puntia ftcus-indica (L.) Miller (Fico d’India, figurinie) (cultivated) (0 13)
As a plaster, the pounded branches are used to treat corns and frostbite.
CAPPARIDACEAE
Capparis spinosa L. (Cappero, chiapparo) (C 35) The flower buds, used as a food dressing, are
claimed to have digestive properties, while, exter- nally, are used to cure wounds.
CAPRIFOLIACEAE
Sambucus ebulus L. (Ebbio, fetente) (S 22) A decoction (50 g of leaves in 1 1 of water) is
used as a cataplasm in the treatment of rheumatism.
Sambucus nigra L. (Sambuco, sauce) (S 2) A decoction (30 g of fresh fruits in 1 1 of water
for 20 min, 2 or 3 cups a day) is claimed to have a laxative action. The fresh fruits or the juice of fresh berries are claimed to have the same proper- ties. Another type of decoction (50 g of dried bark in 1 1 of water) is used to treat cystitis. The infu- sion, made from fresh leaves, is claimed to have a cholagogic and antihypercholesterolemic action. This plant is also used in the treatment of asthma and its leaves, as a plaster, are used in case of rheumatisms.
BORAGINACEAE
CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Borago officinalis L. (Borragine, verraccia) (B 3) A decoction (50-70 g of leaves in 1 1 of water,
2 glasses a day) is used as a depurative and a diuretic. This decoction is also claimed to have an- tiasthmatic and emollient properties in the treat- ment of pulmonary diseases, while the cooked plant is also consumed for alleged diuretic action.
Saponaria officinalis L. (Saponaria, saponella, erva saponara) (S 42)
A decoction (30 g of leaves in 1 1 of water, 2-3 cups a day) is used as an antitussive. This plant is also used as a detergent to clean linens especially pure wool items.
116
Stellaria media (L.) Vill. (Stellaria, mesurecchio)
(S 7.5) An infusion of the fresh plant (30 g in 1 1 of
water, 2 cups a day) is administered in the treat- ment of varicose veins. Also, the plant is a good feed for poultry.
CELASTRACEAE
Euonymus verrucosus Stop. (Fusaggine, sanguan- ells) (E 43)
A leaf decoction is used as a tonic. In some areas the seeds are fed to domestic animals as an anti- parasitic. In the past, the seed flour, spread and energetically massaged on children’s scalps with vinegar, was used against head lice.
COMPOSITAE
Achilles odorata L. (Achilles, troneto) (A 2) The decoction (50-70 g of flowering tops in 1 1
of water for 20 min) is claimed to be an effective external decongestant for haematomas and is used to cure sores and wounds. A weak infusion, ob- tained from the dried plant, is claimed to have a stomachic and digestive action. This plant is also used in the preparation of digestive liqueurs.
Arctium maius (Gaertner) Bernh. (Bardana, lap- pola, anginiglia) (A 3)
The fresh ground leaves, brushed on painful skin disorders heal haematomas and contusions. Furthermore, as a plaster, they are used against acne, abscesses and furuncles. A fresh leaf decoc- tion (10 g in 1 1 of water, 2 cups a day) has a cholagogic and depurative action. This prepara- tion, drunk from small glasses, is claimed to reduce hypercholesterolemia and to be antidia- betic. It is also used externally against acne and furuncles. Another type of decoction (30 g of dried leaves in 1 1 of water, one cup before going to bed) is used to treat irritability and insomnia.
Artemisia absinthium L. (Assenzio, nascienzo) (A
4) A decoction (30 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of water,
boiled ‘to third’, one cup every 15 days) is claimed to be excellent in the treatment of diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. An infusion (20-30 g of dried flowering tops for 4-5 min in 1 1 of warm water, one cup every evening) is claimed to stimulate the liver function and is often used in the treatment of biliary calculosis and dispepsia. The pounded leaves and whole plant are used external-
ly as a cicatrizant for wounds and sores. The oil, prepared by macerating the plant in olive oil, is spread in the ears to cure mumps. This plant is also used in the preparation of digestive liqueurs.
Calendula officinalis L. (Calendula, sciure ‘e Sant’Antonio) (cultivated) (C 12)
This plant is used in the preparation of mixtures for the treatment of varices.
Centaurea cyanus L. (Fiordaliso) (C 17) A decoction (15 g of dried plant in 1 1 of water,
2 cups a day) is used as an antiasthmatic.
Cichorium intybus L. (Endivia, cicoria) (C 16) The plant, consumed in salads, is claimed to
have a choleretic and cholagogic action and to act as a soft laxative. The decoction ‘to third’ is claim- ed to be useful in the treatment of hyper- cholesterolemia.
Cynara scolymus L. (Carciofo, carcioffa) (cultivated) (C 8)
The decoction (50 g of leaves in 1 1 of water for 20 min, 2 cups a day in the morning before breakfast and after lunch) is claimed to have a cholagogic and anti-hypercholesterolemic action; central and peripheric vaso-regulating properties are also attributed to this preparation. A concen- trated infusion (300 g in 1 of water for 20 min, 1 cup a day) is believed to act as an aperient. This plant is also used to prepare antivaricose mixtures.
Eupatorium cannabinum L. (Canapa acquatica, er- vu lupegna) (E 7)
This plant is claimed to have cholagogic and digestive properties, but the posology is unknown,
Lactuca sativa L. (Lattuga, scarola) (cultivated) (L
8) A decoction (60 g of lettuce in 1 1 of water for
10 min) is claimed to have a diuretic and digestive action. The leaves, boiled for 10 min, are used ex- ternally against inflammations of the gum and to relieve toothaches.
(Matricaria chamomilfa L. (Camomilla comune, camomirra) (M I)
An infusion of flower heads (30-40 g in 1 1 of water for 5 min, 2-3 cups a day, one before going to bed) is claimed to be a sedative and is used especially to treat insomnia. The same infusion is claimed to be effective in the treatment of colitis and biliary calculosis and to have digestive proper- ties. Compresses of chamomile infusion (50 g in 1
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1 of water, for half an hour) is used against oedemas, haematomas and traumas. The following method is used in the treatment of wounds and sores: the plant is boiled for at least 10 min and, while still hot, the wounded area is soaked; then a piece of bread is dipped in the decoction, sprinkled with sugar and applied on the wound with a ban- dage, and left overnight. This application should be repeated for three nights.
Senecio vulgaris L. (senecione, cardillo, cardun- ciello) (S 9)
A decoction (40 g of the whole plant in 1 1 of wa- ter) is used externally as a washing to treat varicose veins. An infusion (10 g of the aerial parts in 1 1 of water, 1 small glass a day) is taken orally to treat internal varices.
An infusion (20 g of dried roots in 1 1 of hot wa- ter for 15 min, 2-3 glasses a day) is claimed to have a tonic and depurative action and to promote digestion. The aqueous extract, obtained from roasted roots, is used in the treatment of bladder calculosis. This plant is also used to prepare some anti-varicose mixtures.
Some species of Compositae, belonging to the genera Chondrilla L., Crepis L., Picris L. and Son- chius L., are often consumed, cooked or uncooked, in salads, for their depurative and cholagogic ac- tion. They are usually called Cicoria sarvatica, car- doni, lattarole.
A decoction (40-50 g of dried plant in 1 1 of water, 2 or 3 cups a day) is claimed to have hypotensive properties and is also used in the treatment of biliary lithiasis. This plant is often used in the preparation of anti-varicose mixtures. Convolvulus althaeoides L. (Campanelle) is sometimes also used for similar purpose. The leaves of both plants are macerated in alcohol and the macerate is used to treat corns.
CORYLACEAE
Corylus avellana L. (Nocciolo, nocella) (cultivated) (C 191
An infusion (50 g of bark and dried leaves in 1 1 of water, 2-3 cups a day) is claimed to regulate the functions of the small blood vessels; it is also used to treat varices and hemorrhoids.
CRUCIFERAE
Alyssum saxatile L. ssp. orientale (Ard.) Reichenb. f. (Alisso, erva ‘e San Giuseppe) (A 23)
A decoction (50 g of dried plant in 1 I of water) is used as a douche for vaginal infections; orally, 2 cups a day, it is claimed to be haemostatic in the gastric and urinary tract. It is also used as a diuretic, sedative and tonic.
Brassica oleracea L. ssp. oleracea L. (Cavoltiore, cavelesciore) (cultivated) (B 1)
A decoction (150 g of leaves in 1 1 of water for 10 min) is used as a depurative. The ground leaves are also administered as plasters against acne, furunculosis and corns.
Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medicus (Borsa- pastore, zeppolelle sarvatiche) (A 21)
The whole fresh plant, if consumed, is claimed to have a hypotensive effect. Its use is also recom- mended against colitis. The same properties are at- tributed to Thlapsi arvense L. (zeppolelle sarvatiche).
The fresh plant, if consumed, is claimed to have a laxative and hepatotropic action. It is also claim- ed to be an aphrodisiac, although there are no posological indications.
Sinapis alba L. (Senape bianca, rapesta) (cultivated) (S 13)
A decoction (the whole plant in water) is taken as an antidote in cases of mushroom poisonings.
CUCURBITACEAE
Cucumis sativus L. (Cetriolo, cetrulo) (cultivated) (C 112)
The fresh fruit, cut into small pieces, is rubbed on the affected parts, as a depurative against acne and furunculosis.
Cucurbita maxima Duchesne in Lam. (Zucca, cocozza) (cultivated) (C 44)
Decorticated and ground seeds, when taken orally, are claimed to have a vermifuge action, especially in children. It is taken with sugar or honey (20 g) and water (200 ml), and may be aromatized by the addition of orange or lemon juice; it is taken before meals alongwith a laxative.
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DIPSACACEAE GRAMINEAE
Dipsacus sylvestris Hudson (Cardo dei lanaiouli, cardone) (D 2)
A decoction (30 g of flowering tops and dried fruits in 1 1 of water) is used externally in cases of skin diseases.
ERICACEAE
Arbutus unedo L. (Corbezzolo, sovera pelosa) (A
7) A decoction (30 g of leaves in 1 1 of water for 10
min, 2-3 cups a day) is claimed to have astringent properties and is used to treat diarrhoea. The fruits are used in the same way, although to a more
limited extent.
Erica arborea L. (Erica arborea, ulece) (E 12) The plant is claimed to be a sedative in
veterinary medicine.
EUPHORBIACEAE
Euphorbia dendroides L. (Euforbia, tutumaglio, tutumagno) (E 19) E. marginata L. (Euforbia, tutumaglio, tutumagno)
(E 17) The pressed plant, applied externally on the
skin, is claimed to have a rubefacient and anti- rheumatic action. The latex is used to treat warts and verrucas and is used as a dental analgesic in
cases of teeth decay.
FAGACEAE
Castanea sativa Miller (Castagno, castagna)
(cultivated) (C 47) To a cup of 1 1 of water, add 30 g of leaves. This
infusion, 2 or 3 cups a day, is drunk in cases of
dysentery and is also indicated in case of coughs
and asthma.
Quercus pubescens Willd. ssp. pubescens (Quercia,
cierco) (Q 19) A decoction (50 g of bark in 1 1 of water, boiled
‘to third’) is orally administered, 2 or 3 cups a day, against diarrhoeas, as a depurative and to treat
varices and hemorrhoids. Externally, it is used as an antiseptic by washing and as a mouthwash, in
cases of throat inflammations and gingivitis; it is also claimed to have an anticaries action. The same decoction is also used as a bath to treat frostbite on hands or feet.
Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. (Gramigna, ramegna)
(C 34) A decoction of dried roots (20 g in 1 1 of water,
2-3 cups a day) is claimed to be depurative and
diuretic. It is also used to treat urinary inflamma- tions and biliary and renal calculosis. This plant is also claimed to have a peripheral vaso-regulating action and is used to prepare some mixtures used
to treat varices.
Zea mays L. (Mais, gravurinio) (cultivated) (Z I) A decoction of the styles (30 g in 1 1 of water,
3-4 cups a day) is claimed to be cholagogic and hypotensive and is also used to treat cystitis and renal calculosis.
GUTTIFERAE
Hypericum perjoliatum L. (Iperico, erva ‘e Sun Giuvanne) (H 3)
The whole plant is macerated in oil for 40 days, then the macerate is used as an emollient and cicatrizant for burns. The juice obtained from the squeezed fresh plant is used for the same purpose.
JUGLANDACEAE
Jugfuns regia L. (Note, note) (cultivated) (J I) A decoction (made by boiling 125 g of oak and
125 g of walnut leaves in 1 1 of water for 30 min) is applied externally as a hot lavage against frostbites on hands, feet and ears. The same decoc- tion is also administered as a cicatrizant and as an
anti-haemorrhagic for wounds and sores, varicose veins, hemorrhoids and varicose ulcers. The leaves are smoked as an anti-asthmatic. A weak infusion (30 g of young fresh leaves in 1 1 of water) is claim-
ed to have diuretic, antidiabetic and peripheric vaso-regulating properties and is advised for varices (2-3 cups a day, one in the morning before meals). From the fresh fruits, picked with the hull
on June 24th (St. John’s day) and macerated for 40 days in ethyl alcohol and aromatized with rue or other plants, a digestive liqueur (‘Nocillo’) is made.
LABIATAE
Culuminthu nepetu (L.) Savi ssp. glundulosu (Req.) P. W. Ball (Nepeta, nepetelh, ervu d’u Muronnu)
(C 13) An infusion (40 g of the whole plant in 1 1 of
119
water for 20 min, 3-4 cups a day) is used in the treatment of bronchial diseases. The plant is also said to be useful, by inhalation, against catarrh and colds.
Lamium album L. (Lamio, verre-verre) (L 5) The aerial parts of this plant, macerated in olive
oil, are used externally against sciatica and pains caused by traumas.
Lavandula officinalis Miller ssp. officinaiis (Lavan- da, spigandos) (cultivated) (L 1)
An infusion (50 g of flowering tops in 1 I of warm water for 20 min, 2-3 cups a day) is used to treat gastric problems, as a digestive, and to treat urinary infections. The dried flowering tops are used as linen deodorants, as an insectifuge and against clothes moths. The minced plant is used, by inhalation, in the treatment of colds and asthma and in the preparation of anti-varicose mixtures.
Mentha spicata L. (Menta, amenta) (cultivated) (M 3)
The fresh leaves, added to some food ingre- dients, are used as a flavouring agent and consid- ered to have an eupeptic and stimulating action; moreover, brushed on the affected areas they are claimed to help cure insect bites. A decoction (40 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of water, a cup in the eve- ning) is drunk in case of insomnia because of its claimed sedative action. It is also used against varices, asthma and colitis. The fresh leaves, if eaten, are claimed to have digestive properties. The same activity is attributed to Mentha rotun- dtfoha (L.) Hudson (amen& servatica, nepetone).
Ocimum ba~iiicum L. (Basil&o, vasenicoia) (cultivated) (B 6)
An infusion (10 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of water for 15 min, 2 cups a day after meals) is used as a depurative and a diuretic.
Origanum vulgare L. (Origano, arecheta) (0 1) An infusion (20 g of flowering tops in 1 1 of wa-
ter, 2-4 small cups a day) is claimed to have eupeptic and digestive properties. Inhalations of a concentrated decoction (100 g of leaves in 1 1 of water) are prescribed as an expectorant in the treatment of bronchial asthma and catarrh.
Rosmarinus ofjjcinalis L. (Rosmarino, rosamarina) CR 71
An infusion (30 g of leaves and flowering tops in
1 1 of water, 2-4 cups a day) is considered a eupep- tic and is used in the flatulence. A concentrated decoction of the aerial parts (50 g in 1 1 of water, 2 cups a day) is used in the treatment of rheumatism. The medicated wine (30 g of flower- ing tops in white wine for 2 days, l-2 small cups a day, drunk after meals) is claimed to have a tonic and digestive action. A decoction obtained from 10% inflorescences and shoots, boiled ‘to third’ when drunk in the morning for 8 days and again after a month, is claimed to be antidiabetic and to promote the hepdtic function. The plant is known for its alleged abortive properties and is also used to prepare anti-varicose mixtures.
Salvia officinalis L. (Salvia, sarvia) (cultivated) (S 17)
A decoction (40 g of leaves in 1 1 of water, 2-3 cups a day) is claimed to be an antiasthmatic and is used in the treatment of coughs. The cooked leaves are used as a local anaesthetic in the treat- ment of abscesses. A weak infusion of the fresh leaves (30 g in 1 1 of water, 1 cup after meals) is claimed to be a digestive. Sometimes the leaves, mixed with those of thorn apple, are smoked to treat asthma.
Thymus pulegioides L. (Serpillo, scerepuglia, erva ‘e Vagne) (T 5)
A concentrated decoction is used by vapor in- halation as an expectorant. Its flowers, when soak- ed in water, on Ascension night (‘Festa dei Vagni’), produce a perfumed water which is used to wash oneself the next day.
Thymus vu~garis L. (Timo, tima) (T 4) A concentrated decoction of the whole plant (50
g in 1 1 of water) is used by vapor inhalation in the treatment of bronchitis and catarrh; it is also claimed to be an expectorant, anti-asthmatic and mucolytic. This preparation is used in the treat- ment of colitis and is also used to prepare an- tivaricose mixtures.
LAURACEAE
Laurus nobiiis L. (Alloro, lauro) (cultivated) ft 4) A decoction of the leaves (30-40 g in 1 1 of water
for 10 min) is claimed to have a digestive action. The leaves are also used to aromatize several types of food ingredients, especially chestnuts, scraps and pork fat.
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LEGUMINOSAE
Lupinus angustifolius L. (Lupino selvatico, lupeniello) (L 17)
This plant is claimed to have antidiabetic, cholagogic and hypotensive properties, but no
particular preparations are indicated.
Phaseolus vulgaris L. (Fagiolo, fasulo) (cultivated)
(P 11) A decoction of dried pods (50 g in 1 1 of water,
boiled ‘to third’, 2-3 cups a day) is taken internal- ly to treat renal lithiasis and diabetes.
LILIACEAE
Allium cepa L. (Cipolla, cepolla) (cultivated) (A 8) The bulbs, without the external bracts, are used
to massage the scalp every morning to prevent hair loss. The onion, cooked or uncooked, is used for its antidiabetic, depurative and anti-uricemic pro- perties and is claimed to be effective in treatment
of high levels of cholesterol.
Allium sativum L. (aglio, aglio) (cultivated) (A 9) Garlic bulbs are claimed to have antiarthritic,
antidiabetic, cholagogic and depurative action and to help to reduce high levels of cholesterol. Exter- nally, they are used as a disinfectant. The bulbs, cooked or uncooked, added to foods or alone are
also claimed to cure hypertension, but they are not recommended for people with hypotension and cardiac problems. A decoction (20-30 g of garlic bulbs in milk, 250 ml before meals) is claimed to have a vermifugal action when drunk. After an
hour, a laxative is necessary. Ground garlic bulbs are said to help cure corns.
Asparagus acutifolius L. (Asparago, spalice) (A
11) The cooked new buds are claimed to be diuretic.
LORANTHACEAE
Viscum album L. (Vischio, visco) (V 3) An infusion (20-30 g of dried leaves in 1 1 of wa-
ter, 2 or 3 cups a day) is drunk for the treatment of arteriosclerosis and to reduce high levels of cholesterol. Another type of infusion (30 g of dried leaves and berries in 1 1 of hot water, internally) is
claimed to have an antihypertensive action. It is important to note that popular knowledge
considers the two species of wild mistletoe (Viscum album L. and Loranthus europaeus L.) as one and
the same species and attributes the different col- ours of the berries to the tree where mistletoe is a parasite.
MALVACEAE
Althaea cannabina L. (Altea, marmolone) (A 1) An infusion (50 g of leaves in 1 1 of water, 2-3
cups a day) is used in the treatment of catarrh, bronchial asthma and coughs.
Lavatera cretica L. (marmolone, malvone) (L 12)
This plant is claimed to have a choleretic action and is used internally in veterinary medicine for large domestic animals, especially cattle. It is also claimed to regulate the digestion and relieve con-
stipation in cattle.
Malva sylvestris L. (Malva, malvarosa) (M 7) An infusion (100 g of leaves and flowers in 1 1
of water, 2 or 3 cups a day) is used as a deconges- tant of the respiratory system. It is also used in cases of bronchial asthma, catarrh and coughs. A decoction from the same plant parts is claimed to
have an antiphlogistic action internally, while ex- ternally it is used to treat abscesses and furuncles.
MORACEAE
Ficus carica L. (Fico, &a) (cultivated) (F 2) The latex from the branches and unripe fruits is
used to treat warts and verrucas, applying it several times during the day. A decoction ‘to third’
of the leaves is used to promote diuresis, while the leaves mixed with animal feed are used as a digestive in veterinary medicine.
Mows alba L. (Gelso bianco, ceveza janca) (cultivated) (M 5)
An infusion (50 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of water, 2 or 3 cups a day) is used as a diuretic and is claim-
ed to be antidiabetic. An infusion of the leaves of black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) (ceveza nera) is also claimed to have the same properties.
MYRTACEAE
Eucalyptus globulus L’HCrit. (Eucalipto, calipso) (cultivated) (E 4)
A concentrated infusion of the dried leaves is administered by vapor inhalation as an expec- torant and to treat bronchial asthma. A decoction, however, is used externally, by washings, to treat
varicose ulcers. Besides, this plant has also been
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claimed to have cholagogic properties and has been used to treat diabetes.
Myrtus communis L. (Mirto, mortella) (M 35) A decoction (20-25 g of leaves and bark in 1 1
of water, 2 or 3 cups a day) is taken as an astr- ingent.
OLEACEAE
Fraxinus ornus L. (Orniello, frasso) (F 17) A decoction (50 g of bark in 1 1 of water, 2 cups
a day) is claimed to be an antidiarrheic and is also used to reduce high levels of cholesterol.
Olea europaea L. (Olivo, aulivo) (cultivated) (0 4) Orally, olive oil is claimed to be a cholagoge and
a laxative; it is used to treat renal lithiasis; exter- nally, rubbed on burns or sores, it is considered to act as an haemostatic. A 50% emulsion of olive oil and water is used to treat sun burns. Massages with olive oil are considered useful in the treat- ment of rheumatisms to promote circulation. A leaf decoction (posology unknown) is claimed to have a diuretic and hypotensive action.
PAPAVERACEAE
Chelidonium majus L. (Celidonia, papagno sar- vatico, mangialacerte) (C 12)
The yellow latex is used in the fresh state to treat warts, verrucas, corns and frostbite. A decoction of the whole fresh plant (20 g in 1 1 of water, boiled ‘to third’, 2 cups a day, one in the morning before meals, the other in the evening before going to bed) is claimed to be a cholagoge and to regulate the hepatic function. In some areas, this decoction is also used to treat varices or varicose ulcers on the lower limbs. The macerate of new leaves in ethyl alcohol or wine is claimed to have a digestive action; thus, its use to prepare digestive liqueurs.
Fumaria officinalis L. (Fumaria, fumosa) (F 3) An infusion (50 g of the flowery fresh plant in
1 1 of water, 2-3 small cups a day) is claimed to be a depurative and is used as an intestinal deconges- tant. A more concentrated infusion (70-100 g in 1 1 of water) is used to treat skin diseases. In some areas, Fumaria capreolata L. ssp. capreolata (fiimosa janca) is also used in the same manner.
Papaver rhoeas L. (Papavero, rosolaccio, papagno)
(P 5) A filtered infusion of petals in hot water is
drunk to treat irritability and insomnia (1 cup in the evening before going to bed). The same infu- sion, taken during the day, is claimed to be a general tonic. The decoction (25-30 g of dried flowers in 1 1 of water, for 20 min) is used to treat coughs, especially in children. The petals are macerated in olive oil for 10 days, then the macerate is used in the treatment of inflammations of the eyelids.
A hot decoction of the shoots, resin and, sometimes, leaves are used, by vapor inhalation, as an expectorant and an antiasthmatic. The leaves, resin and shoots of Pinus pinaster L. and Pinus pinea L. are also used in the same way.
PLANTAGINACEAE
Plantago lanceolata L. (Piantaggine, cinchenierve)
(P 27) P. major L. (Piantaggine, cinchenierve) (P 26)
A decoction (70-80 g of fresh leaves in 1 1 of wa- ter for 10 min, 2-3 cups a day) is taken internally for the treatment of disentery, as a cholagoge and as a resolvent in cases of renal calculosis. It is also used to treat bronchial catarrh, hemorrhoids and varices. Externally, as a plaster, it is claimed to be an antihaemorrhagic and to heal wounds, sores and ulcers. The fresh ground leaves, applied on wounds and varices, is used as a haemostatic.
POLYGONACEAE
Polygonum aviculare L. (Centinodia) (P 75) An infusion of the whole plant (50 g in 1 1 of wa-
ter, 3 cups a day) is used as a cholagogue in hepatic insufficiency and as a resolvent of renal and biliary lithiasis. It is also used in mixtures to treat varices.
Rumex acetosa L. (Acetosa, acetosa, acetaglia) (R 47)
This plant is consumed for its astringent taste and mild laxative properties.
POLYPODIACEAE
Polypodium vulgare L. (Polipodio, felece) (P 16) A decoction of the rhizome (30 g in 1 I of water;
3-4 cups a day, before meals) is claimed to have a vermifuge, laxative and cholagogic action.
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PORTULACACEAE
Portulaca oleracea L. (Portulaca, Porcellana, erba vasciulella, purchiacchella) (P 43)
Eaten in salads, it is claimed to have excellent diuretic properties and a mild laxative action.
PUNICACEAE
Punica granatum L. (Melograno, ranato) (cultivated) (P 1.5)
A decoction of the pericarps (30 g in 1 1 of water, boiled ‘to third’ and aromatized with lemon or orange juice, 2 cups a day) is used as an astringent and to treat helminthiasis and dysentery.
Sometimes, the same decoction is used as an an- tirheumatic. The fruits are eaten for their astr- ingent properties.
RANUNCULACEAE
Clematis vitalba L. (Vitalba, vetrari) (C 2) The shoots, if consumed, are claimed to be
diuretic. Sometimes, a decoction of the aerial parts is applied on the temples against cephalea.
An infusion (20 g of leaves and flowers in 1 1 of water, 2 or 3 small cups a day) is used as a CNS
tonic and sedative and against insomnia. It is also used in the treatment of varices. This plant is also claimed to have hypotensive, cholagogic and an- tiasthmatic properties.
Prunus avium L. (Ciliegio, cerasa) (cultivated) (P 14)
A decoction of cherry petioles is used in the treatment of coughs. The cherries, like plums, have
mild laxative and diuretic properties.
Pyrus communis L. var. pennata Casella (Pero, piro) (cultivated) (P 65)
The jam made from pears of this variety, which exists in this area only, is believed to be very energetic and is administered to convalescents.
Rosa canina L. (Rosa canina, rosella sarvatica) (R 1)
The fruit decoction (40 g in 1 1 of water) is claim- ed to be useful in the treatment of diabetes. It is
also used against colds.
Rubus caesius L. (Rovo, rusto) (R 5) The fruits are claimed to have a laxative action.
Externally, as a plaster, the leaves are used to treat furuncles and eruptions.
Sanguisorba officinalis L. (Pimpinella, pane ‘e note) (S 7)
A decoction of the whole fresh plant (30-40 g in 1 1 of water, 2 cups a day) is used to treat colitis and pyrexia, especially in cases of vesical fever.
The plant is also used to prepare anti-varicose mixtures.
Sorbus domestica L. (Sorbo, sovere) (cultivated) (S
15) Fresh and dried fruits are used to prepare an
astringent decoction (30 g in 1 1 of water, 1 cup in the evening).
RUTACEAE
Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f. (Limone, limone) (cultivated) (C 81)
One lemon eaten in the morning before meals is claimed to be an antiarthritic. The lemon juice in hot water, with the addition of sugar, is drunk for respiratory inflammations and coughs, while a
cold preparation is claimed to be a eupeptic and a tonic. The juice of half a lemon, drunk in the mor- ning and before meals, is used to treat uricemia. In other areas lemon juice, drunk in the morning, is
claimed to be useful against diabetes and high levels of cholesterol. The bark decoction (30 g in 1 1 of water, 2 cups a day before going to bed) is claimed to be soothing and sedative.
The macerate of lemon, orange, citron and man- darin epicarps in ethyl alcohol, called ‘Four citrus fruits liqueur’, is claimed to have digestive proper- ties. Citrus fruits, especially lemon and orange, are
consumed when one has a cold.
Ruta graveolens L. (Ruta, aruta) (cultivated) (R 49)
The medicated wine and the tincture of the whole fresh plant (40 g in 1 1 of alcohol for 15 days) are claimed to have digestive and hypoten- sive properties.
SCROPHULARIACEAE
Antirrhinum majus L. (Bocca di lupo, vocca ‘e leone) (S 12)
The oil obtained by macerating the whole fresh plant in olive oil, when used as a plaster, is claimed
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to have an excellent soothing effect to treat abscesses and bruises.
250 ml of ethyl alcohol for 2 weeks (internally, l-2 teaspoonfuls a day) is claimed to relieve rheumatic neuralgia and lumbago. Often, this tincture is used to soak bandages and is believed to help heal sores
and wounds.
Datura stramonium L. (Stramonio, fetente) (D 3) The leaves, when smoked, are claimed to be an
antiasthmatic. The same action is attributed to the so-called ‘nocturnal exhalation’ of the plant.
Lycopersicon esculentum Miller (Pomodoro, pum-
marola) (cultivated) (L 2) Fresh tomatoes are used externally to cure insect
(in particular, wasp and bee) and scorpion bites. Tomato juice is claimed to be a cholagogue. The
plant is also used to prepare oral and local an- tivaricose mixtures.
Solanum melongena L. (Melenzana, mulegnana)
(cultivated) (S 4) A decoction of the dried pericarp (30 g in 1 1 of
water for 20 min, 2-3 cups a day) is claimed to be cholagogic, depurative, antidiabetic and to reduce
high levels of cholesterol. It is also used to treat pe- ripheral circulation problems, thus it is applied ex-
ternally by rubbing lower limb varices. It is also claimed to be useful in the treatment of renal
lithiasis. The squeezed fruit is used to cure corns and warts.
Solanum tuberosum L. (Patata, patana) (cultivated)
(S 3) The minced tuber is applied externally to help
heal contusions and burns.
TILIACEAE
Tilia cordata Miller (Tiglio, teglia) (cultivated) (T
11) An infusion of leaves and flowers (30 g in 1 I of
water, 1 cup before to going to bed) is used as a sedative in case of insomnia. The same infusion, prepared with other plants, is used by vapor in-
An infusion of the whole plant (20 g in 1 1 of wa- ter, 2-3 cups a day) is used to treat cystitis, as a cholagogue and as an adjuvant in renal and biliary
lithiasis. A concentrated decoction of the plant (150-200 g in 1 1 of water for 20-25 min) is used externally to treat sprains and haematomas. The
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fresh plant, rubbed on the affected parts, is used to
treat nettle rashes and insect bites.
VITACEAE
Urtica dioica L. (Ortica, ardica) (U 3) Urtica w-ens L. (Ortica, ardichelle) (U 1)
A decoction of the dried roots (15 g in a mixture of 60 ml of vinegar and 25 ml of water) is used to massage the scalp every morning to prevent hair loss and dandruff. Another type of decoction
(30-40 g of fresh tops in 1 1 of water, 3-4 cups a day) is claimed to have purifying, diuretic and an- tidiabetic effects. It is also claimed to be a cholagogue and is used as an adjuvant in renal
lithiasis and colitis. The new buds of nettle, if con- sumed, are believed to have a diuretic action. The plant is applied externally against rheumatic pains, by rubbing fresh plant energetically on the affected
areas.
VALERIANACEAE
Centranthus angustifolius L. (Valeriana minore, cannaviello) (C 18)
A decoction of dried leaves (20 g in 1 1 of water, 1 cup before going to bed) is used as a sedative.
The sweet-scented verbena liqueur, made by macerating 50 g of leaves in white wine for 20 days, aromatized with lemon or orange, is used as a digestive (l-2 small glasses after meals). An infu-
sion of fresh leaves (30 g in 1 1 of water, a cup before going to bed) is claimed to have a sedative action.
Verbena officinalis L. (Verbena) (V 8) A decoction of the whole plant (50 g in 1 1 of wa-
ter) is used as a cicatrizant for wounds and varicose ulcers.
VIOLACEAE
Viola odorata L. (Viola mammola, violetta) (U 13) A decoction of flowers and fresh leaves (40 g in
1 1 of water for 10 min) is applied externally in the treatment of migraine and headache. An infusion of dried leaves (70-80 g in 1 1 of water, 2 or 3 small cups a day), is claimed to have a diuretic action.
Vitis vinifera L. (Vite, vite) (cultivated) (V I) The fruits are claimed to have diuretic and
cholagogic properties. An infusion of leaves and shoots (40 g of in 1 1 of water, 2-3 cups a day) is believed to have choleretic and cholagogic action. The leaves are also used to prepare mixtures for
the treatment of varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
Discussion and Conclusions
The use of many drugs in the Peninsula Sorren- tina to treat a great variety of illnesses confirms the deep phytotherapeutic knowledge of traditional medicine practice. Moreover, the ‘balsamic time’
notion is well known, although it does not often agree with that reported in the literature. Likewise, the knowledge of toxicity of plants is exact, so that the internal administration of toxic plants is
rigorously forbidden. Furthermore, the comparison between the col-
lected data with those of neighbouring areas (De Feo et al., 1991) shows the presence of similar spe-
cies employed generally to treat affections that are commonly treated by phytotherapy rather than by academic medicine.
Certainly, for some plants there are beliefs of
superstitious origin whether in the attribution of therapeutic properties or in the formulation and administration, where formula and rites are fre- quently joined in order to increase the medical ef-
ficacy. Vegetable remedies are used to treat minor and
major afflictions, as simples or as formulations and prescriptions. The therapeutic prescriptions
cover many affections. In particular, many species are used internally in dismetabolic, digestive, car- diovascular and respiratory affections. Phar- maceutical formulations are similar to the classic
preparation in folk medicine. For several plants we reported traditional names
and different uses, previously unknown as com- pared to those described in the literature (Da
Legnano, 1954; Barone, 1963; Benigni et al., 1964; Viola, 1965; Pomini, 1973; Penzig, 1974; Ferri, 1977; Schaumberg et al., 1977; Corsi et al., 1978; Negri, 1979; Pagni et al., 1979; Cappelletti et al.,
1982; Leporatti et al., 1985a,b, 1989; Lodi, 1986; Coassini Lokar et al., 1988). Among these new fin- dings are the fact that Quercus pubescens (Fagaceae) is claimed to be an antiseptic in case of
throat inflammation and gingivitis and that it is also used to treat caries; Allium sativum (Liliaceae)
125
bulbs are externally used as a disinfectant; Sanguisorba officinalis (Rosaceae) as an an- tipyretic and to treat colitis; Lupinus angustifolius (Leguminosae) has never been described as hypotensive. Stellaria media (Caryophyllaceae), Calystegia septum (Convolvulaceae), Corylus
avellana (Corylaceae), Polygonurn aviculare (Polygonaceae), Polypodium vulgare (Polypodiaceae) and Lycopersicon esculentum (Solanaceae) are used to treat varices, while Cym-
balaria muralis (Scrophulariaceae) is claimed to be effective in haemorrhoids. These are new uses. Eupatoriuni cannabinum (Compositae), Lupinus angustifolius (Leguminosae) and Solanum
melongena (Solanaceae) are reported for the first time to be effective in helping hepatic functions. Besides, we also reported three plants, Allium cepa (Liliaceae), Citrus limon (Rutaceae) and Daucus
carota (Umbelliferae) used to treat uricemia. Euonymus verrucosus (Celastraceae) seeds are claimed to be a tonic, Vinca minor (Apocynaceae) to be an emollient and demulcent, while Phaseolus vulgaris (Leguminosae) pods and Solanum melongena epicarp are used to resolve biliary stones.
For three plants, we reported for the first time their medicinal use. These are Alyssum saxatile (Cruciferae) as a cicatrizant in cases of urinary and gastric ulcers and as a sedative and an antiseptic; Diplotaxis tenuifolia (Cruciferae) as an aphro- disiac; Hypericum perfoliatum (Guttiferae) to treat burns as a skin reconstituent.
References
Antonone, R., De Simone, F., Morrica, P. and Ramundo, E.
(1988) Traditional phytotherapy in the Roccamonfina
