Chapter Ten - Traditional use and perspectives for the application of plant latex and its constituents in agriculture, medicine and industry--A follow-up of ABR volume 93 "Latex, laticifers and their molecular components from functions to possible applications"

Latexes of different plants contain a mixture of molecules which exhibit diverse activities against invaders. Among many other functions, they protect plants against herbivores, insects, fungi, parasites, bacteria and viruses. Due to the presence of pharmacologically active substances, mankind for centuries have applied latices and their preparations for their beneficial effect on human health. Most of these substances exert analgesic, wound healing, anti-pathogenic (antiviral and antimicrobial), anti-parasitic, anti-diabetic and other activities, which have been broadly exploited in traditional medicine. Following volume 93, this review presents popular latex applications and discusses perspectives for their use in medicine, agriculture and industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]