Chemical Variation of Leaves and Pseudobulbs in <i>Prosthechea karwinskii</i> (Orchidaceae) in Oaxaca, Mexico

Abstract

Prosthechea karwinskii is an endemic orchid of Mexico with significant value for its traditional uses: ornamental, ceremonial, and medicinal. The pharmacological activity of this plant has been studied using specimens recovered from religious use during Holy Week in Oaxaca, Mexico, sourced from various localities within this state. Geographical variability can influence the chemical composition of plants, as environmental factors affect the production of their secondary metabolites, which impact their biological properties. This research evaluated the variability in the chemical composition of leaves and pseudobulbs of P. karwinskii obtained from different localities in Oaxaca, comprising 95–790 g and 376–3900 g of fresh material for leaves and pseudobulbs, respectively, per locality. Compounds were identified using UHPLC-ESI-qTOF-MS/MS following ultrasound-assisted hydroethanolic extraction. Twenty-one compounds were identified in leaves and twenty in pseudobulb. The findings revealed differences in chemical composition across localities and between leaves and pseudobulbs of the species. The Roaguia locality exhibited the highest extraction yield and pharmacological potential in leaves. For pseudobulbs, Cieneguilla specimens showed the highest yield, and El Lazo had the lowest yield but the highest pharmacological potential. This study represents the first comprehensive analysis of the variation in the chemical composition of a native Mexican orchid. In all localities, leaves and pseudobulbs contained compounds with known biological activity, validating the use of the species in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential for medical and biological applications.

Keywords

• bioactive compounds
• medicinal plants
• extraction yield
• UHPLC-ESI-qTOF-MS/MS
• geographical variation