Pharmacognostic, Chemical and Anti-inflammatory Activity Study of Two Varieties of <i>Tropaeolum tuberosum</i> (Ruiz & Pav.) Kuntze (Tropaeolaceae)

Ecuador has among its foods a series of potatoes and tubers that are not only nutritious, but also contain properties such as adjuvants which aid in the treatment of diseases caused by an inflammatory state. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support these hypotheses. The objective of this study was to carry out a comparative study of two varieties of the mashua tuber (Tropaeolum tuberosum spp tuberosum (Ruiz & Pavon, Kuntze)), by analyzing the pharmacognostic, chemical and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Since there are no previous reports regarding the macro- and micromorphological characteristics of the tubers, the following analyses were conducted; the establishment of physical-chemical parameters, the qualitative determination of the secondary metabolites, the quantification of phenols as well as flavonoids and the characterization of the extracts of ethyl acetate, ethyl alcohol and the coupling of the system through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Significant differences were found in the macro- and micromorphology, as well as in the secondary metabolite between the two varieties studied. The black mashua showed a higher concentration quantification of phenols and flavonoids. Some phytosterols and triterpenoids were reported for the first time in these species and the anti-inflammatory activity of the tubers was demonstrated. These findings can lead to further research for a future use in a clinical trial.