Abstract Detail

Ethnobotany

Shannon, Olivia [1], Buchanan, Ashley [2], Krakos, Kyra [3].

Strychnos ignatii: an ethnobotanical study of a deadly bean from the Philippines to the last Medici Princess. .

This historical ethno-botanical study focuses on the transfer of knowledge and use of the bean of Strychnos ignatii by the last Medici princess, Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici (1667-1716). In this study, we will look at taxonomy, uses of the plant medicinally in the past and present, and understand the biochemistry of the species. Documentation from the Medici Archives indicates that this plant and its use in the Philippines was described by Kamel in 1697, who sent the information to a physician with the East India Trading Company, Browne, and then included in the Ray’s 1686 Historia Plantarum. In 1714, an epistle with a set of the Strychnos beans was sent from Thomas Medici, agent to the Phillipines, to Cosimo III and his daughter, Anna Maria. Medici records indicate it was used to treat menstrual cramps. Strychnos spp. have a history of use in many countries and the biochemistry of the plant supports some of its medicinal uses. This research was in collaboration with the Medici Archives and Missouri Botanical Garden.

1 - Maryville University, Biology , 650 Maryville University Dr. , St. Louis , MO, 63141, USA
2 - University of South Florida, History , 4202 E Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
3 - Maryville University , 650 Maryville University Dr. , St. Louis , MO, 63141, USA

Keywords:
Strychnos ignatii.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Ethnobotany
Location: Exhibit Hall/Omni Hotel
Date: Monday, June 26th, 2017
Time: 5:30 PM This poster will be presented at 5:30 pm. The Poster Session runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Posters with odd poster numbers are presented at 5:30 pm, and posters with even poster numbers are presented at 6:15 pm.
Number: PET003
Abstract ID:123
Candidate for Awards:Economic Botany Section best poster