ABSTRACT
The toxins present in the venom of snakes have numerous properties, and act by different mechanisms—in paralysis, death, and digestion of prey, besides being a defense component against predators. In different parts of the world, medicinal plants have been providing metabolites capable of inhibiting the action of toxins present in snake venoms, and the ehnopharmacological survey of species popularly used to treat snakebites grows over time. Several scientific studies have been recording plant species popularly used to treat snakebite accidents. For example, Mors (1991) and Mors et al. (2000) listed 578 plant species popularly used to combat snake bites, Martz (1992) listed 11 species, and Soares et al. (2005) listed 850 species. Plants and derivatives have been assayed against snake venoms and other venomous animals, since complementary alternatives to antivenom therapy are desirable mainly by lack of this product in many communities. Brazilian plants with antiophidic properties were contextualized in the world stage.
