The rational usage of Drimia robusta Bak. in traditional medicine

Drimia robusta was screened for biological activity using an antibacterial, the cyclooxygenase, and the angiotensin-converting enzyme assays. Ethanoli c bulb extracts exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. Antibacterial activit y was present in the ethyl acetate bulb extract. A phytochemical screening of D. robusta for alkaloids, saponins and cardiac glycosides was carried ou t. D. robusta does not contain alkaloids. Bulb and leaf extracts exhibited haemolytic activity, which is characteristic of saponins. The bulb contains 2-deoxy sugars, common components in the sugar moieties of cardiac glycosi des. Chromatographic screening showed that the bulbs do not contain cardeno lides. Bufadienolides were detected, one of which was identified as proscil laridin A.