Evaluation of spontaneous oleander (Nerium oleander L.) as a medicinal plant

Nerium oleander L. (Apocynaceae) is a spontaneous plant widely diffused throughout the Mediterranean region. In Sardinia, it grows mainly near water flows, preferring humid and sunny environments. Oleander is used mainly as an ornamental. Since ancient times, both the toxicity and the medicinal properties of this species were well known. In fact, all plant parts are toxic if ingested and they can cause death by heart paralysis. This paper consists of a review on the medicinal characteristics of Nerium oleander and on its possible applications. In addition, a survey conducted on oleander types growing in Sardinia, aiming at evaluating their aptitude for medicinal uses, is discussed.