Medicinal plants of Dominica—Uses, chemical constituents, bioactivities and prospects

Abstract

Dominica, the nature isle of the Caribbean, is a country whose citizens are noted for growing old gracefully and living long healthily. The country has been reported to have the highest percentage of centenarians per capita in the world. This is attributed to the wide consumption of natural products which include herbal medicines and cultivated vegetables and fruits. A survey of the medicinal plants popularly used in Dominica was conducted between the months of June and August, 2015. Information on local use of the plants was collected from locals who were well versed in them. Sixteen plants, which appeared to be the most commonly used, are presented in this report. Chemical composition and bioactivity reports on the plants are highlighted and they justify/corroborate the medicinal uses of most of these plants. Bush medicine (or bush tea) is a popular term among people of all walks of life in Dominica and it refers to the decoction, concoction or infusion made from the medicinal plants. Future prospects and recommendations in the areas of herbal formulations, drug discovery and medicinal plant research in Dominica are highlighted.