We have tried to establish some criteria to avoid the substitution of Veronica officinalis (common speedwell) with other species of Veronica genus, especially Veronica chamaedrys (germander speedwell) which is widely spread and has no therapeutic action.
Materials and methods: We have studied the differential histological, anatomical and phytochemical characters of these two species. A rapid method for the identification of the two species is the TLC for flavonoids and phenyl-propanic compounds. We have done also a HPLC study, which has permitted the detection of acteoside in Veronica chamaedrys and isoacteoside in Veronica officinalis. In order to confirm the supposed hypocholesterolaemic effect of Veronica officinalis (used in ethno-pharmacy as a hypocholesterolaemic agent) we have done a two step experiment for these two Veronica species.
Results: Veronica officinalis in the diet showed no significant effect on the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the serum of the cholesterol free diet animals. Veronica officinalis had also a lowering effect on triglycerides and cholesterol level in the serum of high cholesterol diet animals.
Conclusions: A rapid method based on morpho-anatomical and chemical features has been developed in order to avoid substitution of Veronica officinalis with Veronica chamaedrys. For Veronica officinalis we have proved a hypocholesterolaemic effect in high cholesterol diet animals.