Significance of the fungus balansia cyperi infecting medicinal species of cyperus (Cyperaceae) from Amazonia

摘要: At least two species of Amazonian sedges (piripiri, i.e., Cyperus articulatus andC. prolixus, Cyperaceae) are widely utilized for various medicinal purposes, including birth control and induction labor, in hallucinogenic preparations. Examination herbarium specimens collected from throughout South America living Ecuador has revealed that plants infected by the systemic, ascomycetous fungusBalansia cyperi. This fungus is classified Clavicipitaceae known to infect only six ofCyperus, both North American species. Pure cultures were obtained piripiri virens southern USA, grown submerged liquid culture. Extracts medium several unidentified ergot alkaloids. Current past pharmacological uses alkaloids consistent with piripiri, suggesting a fungal basis ethnobotanical utilization Amazonia.