Revisión quimiotaxonómica de los medicamentos Policrestos homeopáticos de origen vegetal y su comparación con ​ la flora medicinal colombiana​

Abstract

Homeopathy, an alternative therapeutic method, employs remedies known as Polychrests, widely documented in homeopathic literature. However, the presence and availability of these substances in Colombia is limited. Objective: To determine the degree of chemotaxonomic similarity between plant-derived polychrests and the medicinal flora available in Colombia in order to propose pathways for local production of mother tinctures (MT). Methods: Based on a dataset of 32 polychrests, a list of plant species with botanical, chemical, and pharmacological information was compiled. A 3×6 comparative matrix with a weighted scoring system was applied to prioritize candidate species. Toxicity (LD50) and geographical distribution were also considered. Results: Twenty plant-derived polychrests (FR>95%) were identified, with 32 major compounds (62.5% alkaloids and 25.0% terpenes and terpenoids). For comparison, 40 candidate species were proposed, of which six showed 100% similarity and confirmed presence in Colombia, along with 27 additional species with varying degrees of similarity. Those scoring below 100 points were considered pharmacological analogs. Additionally, the preparation method for a mother tincture and its homeopathic dilution up to C5 are illustrated, including safety considerations based on LD50. Conclusion: The chemotaxonomic approach suggests the feasibility of local substitution for several polychrests in Colombia, reducing dependence on imports. The matrix provides a framework for comparison and guides species prioritization. Botanical and chemical validations (chromatographic profiles/fingerprints) and a regulatory development plan for national MTs are recommended.