Irvingia Gabonensis Research Articles

Soil Quality Dynamics under Isolated Stands of Irvingia gaboneensis (Bush Mango) and Within the Rainforest in Isoko Region, Nigeria

This study investigated soil quality dynamics under isolated stands of Irvingia gaboneensis within the rainforest of Isoko South region in Nigeria. Both experimental and quasi experimental designs were adopted; while the study area was stratified into 10 from which 2 sampling sites (I. gaboneensis and rainforest respectively) were selected, making 20 sampling sites examined. Samples of soil were derived from topsoil (0-15 cm) and subsoil (15-30 cm) layers of soil under I. gaboneesis and rainforest using core sampler. Each selected site of 30 m x 30 m was divided into quadrant of 10 m x 10 m from which samples were taken. Laboratory analyses of the samples were carried out following standard procedures. All data generated were statistically analysed using descriptive and paired t-test. Results revealed that soil attributes varied under I. gaboneensis and rainforest. With t-value = 0.114 and P (0.9110) > 0.05, mean differences in the topsoil are not significant. For the subsoil, t-value = 0.706 with P (0.4980) > 0.05 thus, mean differences in the subsoils are not significant. Also, with t-value = 1.0250 and P (0.3320) > 0.05, mean differences between the topsoil and subsoil under I. gaboneensis is not significant. For the rainforest, the t-value = 1.1520 and P (0.2790) > 0.05, mean differences between the topsoil and subsoil under adjoining rainforest trees is not significant. The observed insignificant difference in properties of soils under I. gaboneensis and rainforest shows the capacity of I. gaboneensis in soil management. Therefore, its conservation should be encouraged to manage the degraded rainforest ecosystem, while their incorporation into agro-forestry farming should be encouraged

Sequestration of Pb2+ from aqueous solution using bio-based-alkaline modified sorbent from waste Irvingia gabonensis seed husk

Abstract The unmodified and modified Irvingia gabonensis (IG) were characterized with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The experimental conditions revealed the optimum adsorption efficiency was achieved at pH 6 within 30 min. FTIR spectra showed an observable shift in peaks attributed to the pretreatment with NaOH that necessitated the breakdown of the organic compounds. It was established from the SEM image under different magnifications that the surface morphology of the biosorbent consists of heterogeneous layers and pore cavities which acted as potential sites for Pb2+ adsorption. However, there was a considerable increase in the BET surface area, pore size, and pore width on the modified biosorbent compared to the unmodified biosorbent though this did not translate into higher adsorption capacity. The experimental data were best fitted with the Temkim isotherm model suggesting heterogeneous uptake of Pb2+ onto the base-modified Irvingia gabonensis seed husk. The maximum adsorption capacity was 2.58 mg/g and the kinetic model is best described with the pseudo-second-order reaction suggesting a chemical adsorption mechanism. The two error functions (HYBRID and MPSD) suggested the pseudo-second-order reaction mechanism in the adsorption of Pb2+ onto the base-modified Irvingia gabonensis.

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activity of the Irvingia Species

Plants belonging to the genus Irvingia are widespread across the African and Southeast Asian regions of the world. Irvingia gabonensis, Irvingia malayana, and Irvingia grandifolia are among the commonly used species in ethnomedicine, especially in Africa. Fever, scabies, toothache, inflammation, and liver and gastrointestinal disorders are among the pathological conditions that are reverted by Irvingia plants upon traditional preparations. Modern pharmacological investigations have substantiated the ethnomedicinal uses of Irvingia spp. Reports on the phytochemical analysis of Irvingia plants have revealed the presence of a number of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. Based on the foregoing, the present study provides a comprehensive evaluation of reports on the ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity of plants from the genus Irvingia. Relevant information on Irvingia plants was mostly obtained from major scientific databases from their inception until July 2023. As a result, more than forty compounds have been identified in Irvingia spp., proving the abundance of secondary metabolites in these plants. Reports have pointed out modern pharmacological activities such as antiprotozoal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. The present study provides more insights for the successful utilization of Irvingia plants and may guide further research on their therapeutic potential in the treatment of various diseases.

ASSESSMENT OF THE NATURAL REGENERATION STATUS OF IRVINGIA GABONENSIS (BUSH MANGO) IN THE KWANO FOREST OF GASHAKA GUMTI NATIONAL PARK, NIGERIA

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) describes the bush mango (Irvingia gabonensis) species as currently listed in the “lower risk or near threatened” category of its red list and an important versatile tree species in the family Irvingiaceae. I. gabonensis regenerates through seeds and it produces seeds with good germination as such; its natural size in natural habitat is actively regenerating. The present study was conducted to assess the natural regeneration status of I. gabonensis in Kwano Forest of Gashaka Gumti National Park in Nigeria. Through the biophysical survey, the number of regenerants (seedling, saplings, poles, and adults) and trees per hectare (based on diameter classes) was assessed in the forest. The study revealed that there was an increasing trend of I. gabonensis seedlings with good regeneration status. While saplings and adults are fair in regeneration per hectare in Kwano forest, respectively. Furthermore, poles had poor regeneration potentials in the study area. Hence, collectively, there was an apparent diminishing of the natural regeneration trend of I. gabonensis trees among pole classes in the Kwano Forest as a result of constant invasion and disturbances of bush pigs feedings on the ripe fruits thereby creating a setback on regeneration trend. The information is a basis to conservationists toward preservation and sustainable use of the tree species. Hence, the need for concurrent development of possible and efficient alternative method of regeneration is necessary.

Investigation of Chemical Composition and Proximate Properties of Bush Mango (Irvingia wombulu) Production Management and Ethno-medicinal Benefits of Rural Dwellers

The chemical analyses of bush mango (Irvingia wombulu) was conducted in order to identify the bioactive content, proximate composition as well as to establish the vitamin composition in bush mango production. The extraction processes were carried out with the aid of different solvents and techniques. The analyses was conducted with aqueous extract of the milled seed of Irvingia wombulu which found the bioactive components present in form of tannins, saponin, flavonoids, steroid, protiens, anthraquinnones, protein, reducing sugar, cardiac glycoside, terpenopid, phenolic compounds and alkaloids. Flavonoid, cardiac glycoside andalkaloids were moderately present (+) while tannis, saponins, steroids, protein and reducing sugar were heavily present(++). Further, the results from the analyses displayed the proximate composition in Irvingia wombulu leaves, peels, seeds and seed coats samples. The moisture contents in seeds, leaves, peels and seed coats of Irvingia wombulu were 1.4±0.41%, 22.2±0.11%, 38.7±0.01%, and 57.6±0.90% respectively. The test found that the mineral contents of Irvingia wombulu in the seed coats had the highest concentration of iron (0.395±0.00 mg/kg) and 0.040±0.02mg/kg was found in the seed. The trend in the level of concentration of sodium in I. wombulu revealed that leaves has more sodium than seeds and seeds more than seed coats, peels is the least. For calcium, the analyses revealed that the level of concentration in the seed coats had higher mineral content of 4.992±0.01 mg/kg as compared to the lower level of concentration in the seeds at 3.278±0.01 mg/kg. The analyses further showed vitamin B2 composition known riboflavin as one of the 8 -B vitamins. The value of vitamin B2 was high in Irvingia wombolu at 0.17mg/100g with vitamin B6 content having 0.14gm/100g. The production of these chemical components would contribute to health benefits of the rural dwellers. The high bioactive content potential and the presence of proximates, mineral content, vitamins produced at different levels in bush mango (Irvingia wombulu) should be utilized to develop drugs and supplements for its ethno-medicinal benefits and to generate internal revenue for the FRIN biomedical department. Keywords: Bioactive Components, Metabolites, Phytonutrients, Vitamins, Milled Kernel, Production

Evaluations on the Physicochemical and Fatty Acid Composition of Raw and Toasted Melon (Egusi) and Dika Nut (Ogbono) Seeds.

This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical and fatty acid composition of raw and toasted melon seed (Citrullus vulgaris) and dikanuts (Irvingia gabonensis) commonly known as egusi and ogbono respectively. The oil extracted was evaluated for its physical properties; oil yield, refractive index, specific gravity, flash point, melting point and viscosity. Also the chemical properties were determined such as iodine value, saponification value, free fatty acid, acid value, peroxide value, unsaponifiable matter. The fatty acid profile analysis of the oils were analyzed using GC-MS technique. The oil had refractive indices in ranges of 1.46 and 1.45 and specific gravity within the ranges of 0.94 and 0.92. The melting points ranged from 34.46 and 38.58. All analysis were carried out in triplicates and the results were subjected to statistical analysis using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Regression analyses of the data were conducted. Significance differences among the means were established at 5% level of significance using Duncans multiple range tests. The results obtained showed significant differences (P<0.05) among some of the parameters analyzed; physical, chemical and fatty acid profiles of the oils. The samples of toasted egusi with value 42.85 had the highest yield (%) of oil among the other oil seeds samples studied. The chemical property values were within recommended ranges for edible oils, indicating that the oils can be used for edible and industrial purposes.

Evaluation of timber trees producing valuable fruits and seeds in cross river state

The study assessed two rain forest reserves in Cross River State for timber trees producing economically valuable fruits and seeds. The reserves are Afi River and Oban West forest reserves. A total of 18 and 42 tree species were enumerated in Afi River and oban West respectively. In Afi River forest, Brachystegia eurycoma had the highest population of 5 per hectare while Canarium schweinfurtii, Dacroydes edulis, Garcinia kola, Irvingia gabonensis, Parkia bicolor, Pentaclethra macrophylla, Recinodendron heudelotii, Tetrapleura tetraptera and Vitex species had the least of 1 each per hectare. In Oban West forest reserve, Allanblakia floribunda had the highest population of 11 per hectare, while Brachystegia eurycoma, Chrisophyllum albidum, Recinodendron heudelotii, Tetrapleura tetraptera and Xylopia aethiopica had the least of 1 each per hectare. It is observed that most of the timber trees producing valuable fruits and seeds have low frequency of occurrence due to timber exploration thereby calling for their conservation and protection.

Effect of thermosonication on physicochemical, bioactive, sensory and microbiological qualities of African mango fruit (Irvingia gabonensis) juice

Novel strategies to improve the value of fruit juice like thermosonication (TS) are recently attracting research attention. African mango (Irvingia gabonensis) juice processed by pasteurization (90 °C for 1 min) as well as thermosonication (40 kHz, 400 W at 45, 55 and 65 °C, respectively for 10, 20 and 30 min) treatment was investigated for physicochemical, functional, bioactive, microbiological and sensory qualities, where freshly prepared raw juice was used as control. Results showed that pasteurization and thermosonication did not (p > 0.05) affect the physicochemical properties. However, TS treatment resulted in a reduction of color (L*, a*, b*) parameters, but increased cloudiness, browning and viscosity. Importantly, TS treatment at 45 and 55 °C improved ascorbic acid, phenolic content, flavonoid content, carotenoid content and antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, both processes significantly inactivated the microbiological population, while the sensory parameters of treated samples were above average relative to the control sample. However, TS at 65 °C did not favor most of the quality parameters. The application of TS to improve the quality, safety and commercial viability of African mango juice is feasible.

Production and Quality Assessment of Custard from Cornstarch Fortified with Roasted African Yam Bean and Solar Dried African Bush Mango

Production and Quality Assessment of Custard from Cornstarch Fortified with Roasted African Yam Bean and Solar Dried African Bush Mango

Antidiabetic activity and safety evaluation of two Cameroonian medicinal plants in Streptozotocin-rat model: Tetrapleura tetraptera (Fabaceae) and Irvingiagabonensis (Irvingiaceae)

Background: Irvingia gabonensis and Tetrapleura tetraptera are widely employed by traditional healers of the southern regions of Cameroon to treat diabetes. However. there is only limited or no scientific evidence on the real potential of these two medicinal plants to serve as alternative therapies. The present works thus aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic activity of the barks of I. gabonensis and fruits of T. tetraptera. Methods: The antidiabetic potential of the four extracts was assessed by evaluating the hypoglycaemic activity through the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in male Wistar albino rats and the subacute antidiabetic assay in streptozotocin-induced Wistar rat model. For the later. clinical markers (water and food intake, urine excretion), Fasting Blood Sugar FBS), the effects on some vital organs (liver and kidney), and lipid profile were considered. Safety was evaluated using the in vivo acute toxicity test in mouse model. Results: Out of the four extracts prepared from T. tetraptera and I. gabonensis, and tested for their antidiabetic potential, only the hydroethanol extract of the stem bark of I. gabonensis showed promising hypoglycemic and anti-hyperglycemic activity from preliminary screening. Of the two doses of this extract considered for the subacute antidiabetic assessment, the dose of 500mg/Kg demonstrated the highest activity reflected in significant improvement in both clinical and biochemical markers with a 100% recovery rate after 21 days treatment of the STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats. At this dose, the I. gabonensis extract was shown to also improve liver and kidney functions as well as mitigating dyslipidemia in diabetic rats. Overall, its pharmacological properties were above those of the reference drug metformin at 10mg/Kg dose. More interestingly, the acute toxicity study revealed a relative safety of this extract in mice. Conclusion: The present work confirms the potential of the hydroethanolic extract of I. gabonensis to serve a source of new antidiabetic drugs. Further investigations are therefore envisaged.

Potential Characterization of Bush Mango Oil for Application in Transformer Insulation

In recent times, the suitability of some oils from edible fruits as a replacement for mineral oils used in transformers has been proven in different literature. The use of edible oils as transformer insulation fluid gives rise to the concept of green insulation in transformers. Research in the use of edible oil in the production of transformer oil has been one of the major researches in high voltage engineering. The existence of paucity of knowledge on the use of bush mango oil as dielectric fluid in transformers led to the idea of this research work. Therefore, this study focuses on the investigation of the suitability of using Irvingia Gabonensis Oil (IGO) for insulation in power transformers. From the series of analyses conducted, it has been established that the Irvingia Gabonensis (Bush Mango) oil is not suitable for transformer insulation oil. This is because the biobased green oil produced presented characteristics that are not suitable to match the standards recommended by the International Electrochemical Commission (IEC) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

Dietary inclusion of African bush mango (Irvingia gabonensis) seed improves sexual performance in sexually inexperienced rats

Dietary inclusion of African bush mango (Irvingia gabonensis) seed improves sexual performance in sexually inexperienced rats

Effect of drying temperatures on proximate composition of African bush mango seed flour and physicochemical properties of the oil

The effect of drying on the proximate composition of African bush mango seed flour and physicochemical properties of extracted oil were evaluated. Two types of African bush mango seed which were used for the analyses were Irvingia wombulu and. Irvingia gabonensis. The seeds were dried at different temperatures of (40, 50, 60 and 70⁰C) in the oven for 1h. After drying it was milled into flour and the extraction of oil was done using standard method. The result for the samples for moisture content ranged from (2.25 -2.50% and 2.25%- 4.25%), crude fibre (13.00 - 16.75% and 15.02%- 16.70%), fat content (40.80-49.0% and 43.85-49.30%), crude protein (4.65-8.69% and 12.10 - 12.90%), ash content ( 2.40 -3.50% and 1.97 - 2.66%), carbohydrate (23.80% - 30.50% and 18.80% - 21.70%) for I. wombulu and I. gabonensis respectively. The moisture content decreased with increase in temperatures. Crude fibre, fat, ash, and protein increased significantly (p>0.05) for the two samples at different levels of temperatures. The result for the physicochemical properties of the oil for the two samples for saponification value ranged from (154.980-173.80 and 159.580- 170.107) mgKOH. Iodine value (161.235- 162.150 and 155.225 - 160.310) mg I2/g. Peroxide value (1.235 – 1.245 and 1.315 – 1.350) Meq/Kg, acid value (19215- 19.915 and 18.435- 18.885) mgKOH. Free fatty acid (9.610 – 9.960 and 9.221 – 9.765) and refractive index values (1.460-1.470 and 1.519- 1.578). The two samples showed high saponification value, iodine value and acid value. These high values is an indicator for suitability for use in the paint and soap industries. Also the increase in ash and carbohydrate content makes it a good source for mineral and energy.

Farmers’ constraints to production and post-harvest handling of selected neglected food crops in South-east and South-south Nigeria

The study was conducted to determine constraints to the production and post-harvest handlings of selected neglected food crops (Bambara nuts, Bread fruits and Bush mango) in South-east and South-south Nigeria. Production and post-harvest handling challenges have made some of the indigenous crops that are capable of improving food security in the nation to be neglected and underutilized by the farmers. The specific objectives of the study were to; ascertain the socio-economic characteristics of farmers of selected neglected food crops in the study area; determine the constraints militating against production of selected neglected crops; identify the challenges encounter during post- harvest handling of the selected neglected food crops and identify areas of research needs along production and post-harvest handling value chain of the neglected food crops in the study area. Purposive and snow-ball sampling procedure were used to sample 120 farmers of selected neglected crops in southeast and South-South Nigeria. A well-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from the respondents and analyzed using percentage and mean. The results revealed that the mean age of the respondents in the study area was 43.3 years, majority (42.5%) of the farmers attended primary school. The mean for years of farmer’s farming experience was 13.3years.The production constraints to farmers in the study area were lack of financial support (3.8), lack of improved cultural varieties (3.6),ignorance of the crop nutritional value (3.4) and susceptibility to pests and diseases (3.1) while the constraints to farmers during drying were, rain (75.8%), Animal (29.2%) and dust (75.8%). Majority of the farmers (68.3%) mentioned mold growth on stored crops as a major storage challenge All the farmers (100%) mentioned storage problem as area of research needs, while majority of the farmers (95%) suggested improvement on post-harvest handling on neglected crops in the study area., simple and effective storage and processing innovation should be developed by research institutes and made available in the study area.

Botanical and geographical origins of some commercial Apis mellifera var. adansonii honeys from Nigeria

In recent times, there has been an increase in adulterated honey in the commercial market owing to the lucrative nature of the honey business in Nigeria. Melissopalynology analyses can be used to obtain information about botanical and geographical origin of honey sources and to verify quality. Thus, this study was conducted to determine pollen composition and diversity in commercial honey samples from three states in Nigeria to ascertain their botanical and geographical origins. Seven commercial Apis mellifera var. adansonii honey samples were collected from three phytogeographical regions in Nigeria between 2017 and 2019. The samples were analysed for pollen content and other remaining structured elements occurring in sediment obtained using a non-acetolysed methodology. A total of 29 pollen types were identified, related to 18 families, 28 genera, and two unidentified pollen types. Fabaceae had the largest number of pollen types, followed by Asteraceae, Malvaceae, Arecaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Rubiaceae. Among the pollen identified, 22 pollen types were from nectariferous plants dominated by Dalbergia, Fagara/Zanthoxylum, Hymenocardia acida, Irvingia gabonensis, Macaranga, Nauclea latifolia and Pterocarpus. Monofloral honey of Nauclea latifolia and Pterocarpus sp. were also identified. The geographical origin demonstrates Apis mellifera var. adansonii using nectariferous sources available from the rainforest, forest-savanna ecotone, and Guinea savanna in the southeast, southwest, and central Nigeria, as well as in the brushwood, secondary forest, and open grassland areas, suggesting their importance as pollinators or pollen disperser agent of native flora and cultivated species.

Phytochemical Analysis and in vitro Antioxidant Potential of Aqueous and Ethanol Extracts of Irvingia gabonensis Stem Bark

Pharmacognosy Research,2023,15,2,363-372.DOI:10.5530/pres.15.2.039Published:February 2023Type:Original Article Authors:Catherine Otitolaiye, Akhere Omonkhua, Kelly Oriakhi, Edward Okello, Iyere Onoagbe, and Friday Okonofua Author(s) affiliations:Catherine Otitolaiye1, 2, Akhere Omonkhua2,*, Kelly Oriakhi2, Edward Okello3, Iyere Onoagbe4, Friday Okonofua5 1Department of Biochemistry, Sokoto State University, Sokoto, NIGERIA. 2Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Edo, NIGERIA. 3Human Nutrition Research Centre, Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Tyne, UNITED KINGDOM. 4Department of Biochemistry, University of Benin, Edo-State, NIGERIA. 5Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Benin, Benin, NIGERIA. Abstract:Background: Irvingia gabonensis extracts are documented to possess antidiabetic, hypocholesterolemic, and antioxidant activities. The phytochemical components of medicinal plants are responsible for their therapeutic properties, particularly those with antioxidant properties. Objectives: The quantitative phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant properties of the aqueous and ethanol extracts of I. gabonensis stem bark were assessed in this study. Materials and Methods: Standard techniques were used to measure the concentrations of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, and saponins in water and alcohol extracts of this plant. Total Antioxidant Power (TAP) and the extract's capacity to scavenge free radicals including superoxide, nitric oxide, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzoth iazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+), β-carotene, and hydrogen peroxide were also evaluated. The extracts' Ferric-Reducing Potential (FRAP) was also assessed. Results: The alcohol extract had significantly (P < 0.05) higher concentrations of all the phytochemicals measured as well as near significantly (P <0.066) higher TAP in comparison to the aqueous extracts. In general, the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the ethanol extract surpassed that of the water extract. The ethanol extract had IC50 values that were comparable to or less than the reference standards for its ability to neutralize nitric oxide, H2O2, superoxide, and DPPH radicals. Conclusion: The outcomes of the quantitative phytochemical analysis and in vitro antioxidant effects of aqueous and ethanol extracts of I. gabonensis stem bark clearly show their potential as an excellent reservoir of bioactive compounds and scavengers of deleterious oxidants; properties that could be explored therapeutically. Keywords:Antioxidant, Free radicals, in vitro., Irvingia gabonensis, PhytochemicalsView:PDF (364.97 KB)

Crop Diversification and Sustainability in a Cocoa Agroforestry System in Meme Division South West Region, Cameroon

The diversification of crops and trees in cocoa agroforestry plays a major role in ecosystem goods and services. This study investigated the effects of crop diversification in a cocoa agroforestry farms. The study is aimed at identifying crops, crops preference and profitability in a cocoa agroforestry. Primary data were collected with the use of structured questionnaires and field observations. A sample size of 118 respondents was identified for the study. Forty (40) farmers each were interviewed in Matoh and Bole while 38 farmers interviewed in Njombe Mbonge. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 21. Descriptive statistics were used and Chi square (X2) Goodness-of–fit test was performed to check for association at . Results showed that 65 % of farmers had farm sizes between 2-5 hectares with majority of the farmers being males (72.8 %). The major crops farmers diversified in cocoa agroforestry were plantain, cocoyam, cassava, maize, bush mango, bitter cola and Njangsang. The preferences for cultivation of these crops were mainly for food, income and shades. All respondents (100%) cultivated cocoa for income (X2 cal=113.5, x2tab=7.81). NTFPs were cultivated mainly for income with 61.0 %, for Njangsang (X2 cal=25.1, x2tab=7.81), 37.3 % for Bitter cola (X2cal=17.8, x2tab=7.81) and 47.5 % For Bush mango (X2cal=28.5, x2tab=7.81). An average net farm income (NFI) of 187699.8 FCFA and 238252.9 FCFA was obtained per hectare just for cocoa only and cocoa + diversified crops respectively. A net profit margin of 0.49 and 0.54 were obtained for cocoa only and cocoa + diversified crops respectively. This study recommends that diversifying cocoa with crops and some economic trees will yield better income and improved biodiversity.

Preparation, characterization and release studies of naproxen-loaded microspheres from natural gums

Background: Use of biodegradable natural materials as pharmaceutical excipients is increasing. In this study, Naproxen loaded microbeads were produced, using natural gums obtained from Cedrela odorata and Irvingia gabonensisObjective: Aim is to evaluate physicochemical properties of the gums and determining release properties of the formulations.Materials and Methods: Cedrela gum (CG) and Irvingia gum (IG) were extracted from Cedrela odorata and Irvingia gabonensis respectively, and characterized by viscosity, density and pH measurements. Naproxen microbeads were formulated (Formulation A2 to A9) with the gums and sodium alginate using ionotropic gelation method. Cross linkers (CaCl2 or Al2[SO4]3) were used at different curing times. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photomicrographs, entrapment efficiency and release profiles of the formulations were determined.Results: Physicochemical property tests showed that the gums possess good flow, viscosity and they presented with acidic pH. There was no interaction between FT-IR spectra of the gums and naproxen. SEM revealed microbeads to be almost spherical, having slightly rough surfaces. Microbeads from Formulation A6 had the largest particle size (1500±163.2 μm) while Formulation A9 possessed the smallest particle size A9 (491.6±191.7 μm). All the formulations gave high entrapment efficiency (80 – 96%); microbeads containing IG (Batch A6 – A9) had higher values than those formulated with CG gum (Batch A2 – A5) (p &gt; 0.05). Batch A6 (containing IG with CaCl2 at curing time of 15 minutes) gave the highest drug release (p &lt; 0.05).Conclusion: Gums obtained from Cedrela odorata and Irvingia gabonensis possessed good physicochemical properties and produced microbeads suitable for the controlled release of Naproxen. Formulations containing Irvingia gum showed higher drug release and better entrapment.

Socio-economic diagnosis of some non-timber forest products of interest in the town of Bertoua, East Cameroon

In the cities of Cameroon, Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) more precisely spice plants, occupy a place of choice for the well-being of the population. NTFPs such as Irvingia gabonensis, Ricinodendron heudelotii and Tetrapleura tetraptera, which are among the most consumed in the city of Bertoua. The objective of this study was to make a socio-economic diagnosis of the state of these NTFPs. A questionnaire was administered to 500 people, including 18 collectors, 22 wholesalers, 165 retailers and 295 consumers in the sub-districts of Bertoua 1, Bertoua 2 and Mandjou. We found that the female gender was predominantly represented in all categories of actors (68-94%). Fruits/seeds represent the most used parts of these NTFPs (98-99%). The uses of these NTFPs are mainly for food and pharmacological (40-80% depending on the species). The mode of use is mainly decoction especially in soup (95-99%). The main constraints linked to the commercialization of these NTFPs are the seasonality of production for collectors, the price variation for retailers on the market, and the lack of customers for traders. The satisfaction levels of wholesalers, retailers and collectors are divided between the difficulties encountered during marketing and the speed of sale of the different species. This study confirms the importance of spice plants for the well-being of households. For a sustainable management of spice plants in Bertoua and its periphery, the integration between the actors, the economy and the preservation of natural resources should be at the centre of any forestry policy.

Determinants of Marketable Surplus of African Bush Mango Kernel (Ogbono) in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria

The study evaluated the determinants of marketable surplus of African Bush Mango Kernels (Irvingia gabonensis) (ogbono) in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. Multi-stage saying was used to select a total of 60 respondents for the study. The data used for the study was collected using a well-structured questionnaire. The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression. The results showed that ogbono in the study area is male dominated business (53.3%), majority of the producers (48.3%) were married, and 53.3% had a household size of 6-10 persons. The coefficient of multiple determination (R2) was 0.959, the quantity of ogbono produced, age of producers, quantity of ogbono for household consumption was significant at p&lt;0.01, p&lt;0.5 and p&lt;0.01 respectively and positively influenced the quantity of ogbono sold. The 5quantity of ogbono given as gift was negative and significant at p &lt;0.01. The study concluded that ogbono production in the study area is viable and it was recommended that Government support, improved processing and storage facilities should be provided.