Phytochemical and therapeutic use of Cecropia mutisiana Mildbr. (Urticaceae) an endemic plant from Colombia

Cecropia mutisiana is known in traditional medicine for its diverse medicinal properties. Thus, it is used to cure a varied gamut of diseases. In Colombia Cecropia mutisiana is a plant commonly known as agrumo, calentano, guarumo, orumo, or yarumo. Among its different medicinal properties this plant is used to treat mild respiratory diseases including bronchial and lung diseases, cough and whooping cough, asthma stress, and can be used as an anti asthmatic. In addition, it has been used in pathologies related to bile or liver, diabetes, used as an anti-inflammatory medicine or to treat infections. It can also induce scar formation, treat sunburns, and relieve chorea. Related to the heart it has been reported as a cardiac toner, it can treat cardiac deficiencies, and heart hypertrophy. It can also be used as a diuretic and reduce hypertension. The medicinal properties of this plant represent the valuable source of medicinal compounds it contains. This work encompasses information concerning the taxonomy, ethnobotany, phytochemistry, biological activities, and toxicity of this species.