Amount Of Saponins Research Articles

Antibiofilm Efficacy and Mode of Action of Etlingera elatior Extracts Against Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus represents a major bacterial human pathogen that causes a wide variety of clinical manifestations. Various medicinal plants have been used to control its infection, however, the effect of Etlingera elatior on S. aureus biofilm is still uncertain. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy of E. elatior extracts against S. aureus. Phytochemical screening was carried out to determine the presence of phenols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids in different extracts (acetone, methanol, ethanol, and aqueous) of E. elatior. Antibacterial activities were determined by disk diffusion assay, minimum inhibitory concentration assay (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration assay (MBC) while antibiofilm activities were determined by crystal violet assay and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. All the extracts were found to contain phenols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. Only acetone extract showed a high amount of saponins. Among all the extracts, acetone extract showed the widest inhibition zone (21.23±0.2 mm), lowest MIC (20 mg/mL), and lowest MBC (50 mg/mL) values. The acetone extract also showed the highest antibiofilm activities at all biofilm stages (6 hr: 12%-31%; 12 hr: 20%-36%; 18 hr: 27%-32%; 24 hr: 5%-46%). Further analysis with FTIR spectroscopy revealed spectral changes associated with proteins (1700–1400 cm-1), phospholipids, and polysaccharides (1300–700 cm-1) in S. aureus biofilm following the treatment with 200 mg/mL of E. elatior extracts. In conclusion, E. elatior is a potential source of antibacterial and antibiofilm agents to control S. aureus infections. Changes in the composition of proteins, phospholipids, and polysaccharides may mediate the biofilm inhibition by E. elatior extracts. The acetone extract of E. elatior may be useful for various applications such as antimicrobial topical cream and wound dressing.

Saponin rich Gypsophila eriocalyx Boiss methanolic extract (GEME) exhibit anticancerogenic effect against neuroblastoma cancer cell line (SH-SY5Y)

Purpose: Herein, we sought to determine whether of saponin rich Gypsophila eriocalyx methanol extract (GEME) would exhibit any anti-carcinogenic activity on neuroblastoma cancer cell line (SH-SY5Y). 
 Materials and Methods: We therefore determined GEME’s saponin composition using LC-MS analysis, its impact on cell viability using MTT analysis, flow cytometry, and to find out its impact on apoptosis using qRT-PCR analysis. 
 Results: In the LC-MS analysis we determined that GEME contained high amounts of saponin (0.05-0.48 µg/g). We determined that GEME had an IC50 dose of 100 μg/mL at 48 hours. GEME had the effect of substantially increasing the percentage of apoptotic cells (5.19% and 65.21%) and disruption of mitochondria (46.18%). We also demonstrated that BCL2 gene expression (2.76 fold) was significantly reduced than that of the control while BAX (2.21 fold), CASP3 (2.43 fold), CASP7 (2.98 fold), CASP8 (2.23 fold), CASP9 (2.78 fold), and CYCS (2.12 fold) genes were expressed significantly higher than those of the control.
 Conclusion: Considering the findings, it becomes clear that saponin-rich GEME stands out as a significant anticarcinogenic agent. Its remarkable efficacy is demonstrated through its capabilities to notably reduce cell viability, effectively trigger apoptosis, and significantly increase the rate of mitochondrial disruption in cancer cells.

Detoxification of Bacterial Toxins in Soured Soups Using the Extract of Aidan Tree (Tetrapleura Tetraptera L.) Fruit

The study evaluated the use of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit extract to detoxify bacterial toxins in soured soups. Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit extracts were prepared and analyzed for phytochemicals. Three different types of soured soups (egusi, ogbono, and Abua native soup) were used. The soups were prepared and left for 24 hours at room temperature to sour. The pour-plate method and streaking techniques were used to isolate and identify the bacteria. The lateral flow assay device, Biothreat Alert test strip, and enzyme immunoassay kits were used to detect the bacterial toxins, while the extracts were used to test the detoxifying effectiveness of the bacterial toxins. The results showed that Lactobacillus sp, Bifidobacterium sp, Streptococcus sp, Pediococcus sp, Leuconostoc sp Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, Campylobacter jejuni, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Yersinia enterocolitica, Salmonella sp, Shigella sp, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes were associated with the soured soups; alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids were present. The quantity of saponin (5.670±0.15), steroid (4.102±0.13), terpenoid (3.194±0.03), and alkaloid (0.596± 0.01) were very high in concentrations; phenol (0.373±0.02) and tannin (0.366±0.02) were present in moderately high concentrations, while cardiac glycoside (0.007± 0.00) and flavonoid (0.073±0.00) were present in low concentrations. The toxins detected in the soured soups included Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus exotoxins. Therefore, it is concluded that the extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera has no detoxifying effect on the stability of the bacterial toxins and should, therefore, be discouraged.

Nutrient, non-nutrient, antioxidant activity, and Fourier Transform Infrared analysis of Kenyan indigenous edible leafy vegetables from Launaea cornuta (Hochst Ex Oliv and Hiern).

Launaea cornuta is a vegetable with therapeutic advantage for human diseases. Evaluate nutritive and non-nutritive components, antioxidant activity, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy profile of L. cornuta leaves. Proximate, nutri, non-nutrient, percentage phenolic, flavonoid, alkaloid, and saponin contents were investigated using standard procedures. Total phenolic and flavonoids of the extracts were determined spectroscopically. Antioxidant activity and functional groups in the extracts were characterised by 2.2- diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl radical and FTIR spectroscopy, respectively. Carbohydrates were the most abundant (57.61±0.61 %), and crude lipids were the least abundant (4.26±0.20 %) in L. cornuta. Essential amino acids were present in varying concentrations, and histidine was the most abundant (251.20±2.00 mg/100 g dw). Calcium was the most abundant mineral element (820.49±1.05 µg/g dw). High concentrations of phenols (13.07±0.60 %) and low amounts of saponins (2.19±0.10 %) were recorded. Methanolic and aqueous leaf extracts revealed total phenols of 83.10±4.32 and 57.77 ±1.65 mgGAE/g dw, respectively, while total flavonoids were 8.00±0.01 and 7.99±0.03 mgCE/g of dry weight, respectively. Aqueous extract had significant DPPH radical scavenging efficacy (IC50 =72.96± 0.32 µg/ml) compared to 681.57± 2.21 jg/ml for methanol extract. L. cornuta contain phytochemicals with health benefits for averting oxidative stress related diseases.

Hierarchical Machine Learning-Based Growth Prediction Model of Panax ginseng Sprouts in a Hydroponic Environment.

Due to an increase in interest towards functional and health-related foods, Panax ginseng sprout has been in the spotlight since it contains a significant amount of saponins which have anti-cancer, -stress, and -diabetic effects. To increase the amount of production as well as decrease the cultivation period, sprouted ginseng is being studied to ascertain its optimal cultivation environment in hydroponics. Although there are studies on functional components, there is a lack of research on early disease prediction along with productivity improvement. In this study, the ginseng sprouts were cultivated in four different hydroponic conditions: control treatment, hydrogen-mineral treatment, Bioblock treatment, and highly concentrated nitrogen treatment. Physical properties were measured, and environmental data were acquired using sensors. Using three algorithms (artificial neural networks, support vector machines, random forest) for germination and rottenness classification, and leaf number and length of stem prediction models, we propose a hierarchical machine learning model that predicts the growth outcome of ginseng sprouts after a week. Based on the results, a regression model predicts the number of leaves and stem length during the growth process. The results of the classifier models showed an F1-score of germination classification of about 99% every week. The rottenness classification model showed an increase from an average of 83.5% to 98.9%. Predicted leaf numbers for week 1 showed an average nRMSE value of 0.27, which decreased by about 33% by week 3. The results for predicting stem length showed a higher performance compared to the regression model for predicting leaf number. These results showed that the proposed hierarchical machine learning algorithm can predict germination and rottenness in ginseng sprout using physical properties.

Ameliorating effect of Calotropis procera methanol leaf extract against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by fipronil in Wister albino rats

The exposure of humans to oxidative stress inducing chemicals is on the increase due to global industrialization. It has become vital to source for solution by searching for medicinal plants with antioxidant potential. This study was carried out to evaluate the toxicological effect and the antioxidant potential of Calotropis procera in fipronil induced Wister Albino rats. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical and antioxidant screenings of the leaf extract were conducted using standard laboratory protocols. Acute oral toxicity was conducted using Lorke's method to determine the LD50 of the plant extract. The sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated using the Organisation for Economic and Cultural Development method. The in vivo antioxidant potential of the plant extracts was determined using standard methods. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, phenols, cardiac glycosides, steroids, terpenoids and coumarines. Quantitative analysis revealed the amounts of saponins (32.67%), cardiac glycosides (7.6 mg/g), phenols (28 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (7.37 mg/g) and steroids (21.53 μg/mg) that were found. The LD50 was calculated to be 2154 mg/kg. Sub-chronic toxicity studies revealed insignificant (p>0.05) increases in body weight. Insignificant (p>0.05) changes in haematological parameters were also observed across treated groups compared to normal control. Liver and kidney function parameters were significantly (p<0.05) altered at higher (dose) of extract compared to normal control. In vivo antioxidant activity of the extract revealed strong antioxidant potentials due to significant (p<0.05) alteration of enzymatic (SOD, CAT, GSH and MDA) and non-enzymatic (vit C and E) antioxidants in the extract treated groups when compared to fipronil treated and normal control groups. Histological screening revealed that the liver and kidney tissues were significantly (p<0.05) altered at higher (dose) of extract administration. In conclusion, the present study validates the antioxidant potential and hence ameliorating effect of C. procera methanol leaf extract from toxic effects of phenyl pyrazole insecticides.

Effects of Drying Procedures on the Nutritional, Biochemical and Phytochemical Compositions of Cola nitida Seeds

The effects of drying methods on the proximate compositions and phytochemical constituents of Cola nitida seeds were investigated by exposing the kola nuts to different drying procedures. The fresh C. nitida seeds were sorted and divided into four portions with each portion subjected to air-drying (AID), solar drying (SOD), oven-drying (OVD) and sun-drying (SUD) respectively. The results obtained markedly revealed that the proximate property of C. nitida seeds varies from one drying method to the other with OVD retaining the highest moisture and fat contents but has the least ash contents. On the other hand, air-dried C. nitida samples with the maximum carbohydrate composition had the lowest fat, protein and fiber contents. The protein and ash contents of the sun-dried samples were the highest while SOD showed the least moisture and peak fiber contents respectively. Furthermore, it was observed that the phytochemical composition of C. nitida seeds on exposure to these drying procedures differs with the drying methods. Apparently, the air-dried nitida samples had the highest level of total phenols, tannins, alkaloids with good amounts of saponins. However, solar-dried C. nitida seeds which are rich in alkaloids had the least tannins, phenols and saponins composition. The trend of result from this present study revealed that the different drying methods employed in the post-harvest processing of Cola nitida seeds markedly affect the nutrient retention and bioactive constituents of kolanut.

Содержание биологически активных веществ в вегетативной массе очитков (Sedoideae)

Abstract. The aim of the study was to determine the content of the main groups of biologically active substances in the vegetative mass of 10 stonecrops in different phases of seasonal development. Methods. The freshly collected raw materials – vegetative shoots of the following species: Aizopsis aizoon (L.) Grulich, A. hybrida (L.) Grulich, A. kurilensis (Vorosch.) S. Gontch., Hylotelephium ewersii (Ledeb.) H. Ohba, Sedum acre L., S. album L., S. hispanicum L., S. reflexum L., S. rupestre L. and S. spurium M. Bieb. were analyzed. Generally accepted methods of phytochemical analysis were used. The dry matter content was determined by drying 1 g of raw materials to a constant weight. The amount of phenolic compounds, pectin substances and total sugars was determined in ethanol extracts spectrophotometrically, the amount of saponins – by the weight method, and their indicators were calculated for the mass of absolute dry raw materials. The concentration of ascorbic acid was determined by the titrimetric method for wet weight. Scientific novelty. The quantitative content of dry substances, catechins, flavonols, and pectic polysaccharides was studied in stonecrops for the first time. The dynamics of the content of the main groups of secondary metabolites from the flowering phase to the end of the growing season has been established. Results. It was found that the vegetative mass of stonecrops contains: dry matter – up to 19,74 %, flavonols – up to 2,38 %, tannins – up to 19,35 %, pectic polysaccharides – up to 9,9 %, total sugars – up to 41,55 %, and ascorbic acid – up to 112,8 mg%; the amount of catechins does not exceed 3,15 mg%. The tendency to the accumulation of flavonols, saponins and pectic substances during flowering phase in summer, but sugars, tannins and dry substances to the end of the growing season in autumn was revealed. Aizopsis species, S. spurium, S. hispanicum have the highest content of the main groups of biologically active substances. The findings testify to the prospects of stonecrops as a source of various bioactive substances.

Phytochemical and nutritional composition of ethanol-water leaf extracts of Justicia secunda and Jatropha tanjorensis

The study analyzed phytochemical and nutritional compositions of ethanol-water leaf extracts of Justicia secunda and Jatropha tanjorensis using standard methods. In both plants significant amounts of alkaloids, tannin and flavonoids were seen. J. tanjorensis had higher amount of saponin and cardiac glycoside. The quantitative phytochemical and anti-nutrient evaluation revealed J.tanjorensis had higher amount of phytochemicals including sapogenin, anthocyanin and anti-nutrient factors such as tannin, phytate and oxalate. The proximate analysis yielded carbohydrate as being most abundant in both plants with J.tanjorensis having higher (62.22 ±0.14%) against (61.52±0.12 %) seen in J.secunda. Fibre composition of both plants was low with 4.62±0.04% in J.secunda and 5.22±0.05% in J.tanjorensis. The most prevalent mineral element in J.secunda was magnesium (9.39±0.10mg/kg dry weight) while potassium (8.58±0.10mg/kg dry weight) was most prevalent in J.tanjorensis. Manganese was the least abundant in both plants. Eighteen different amino acids were found. His (4.76 ±0.08 µg/g) was the most abundant essential amino acid (EAA) in J.secunda, while Phe (5.78 0.04 µg/g) was the most abundant EAA in J.tanjorensis. Gly (4.85±0.03µg/g) and Pro (4.78±0.04 µg/g) was the most prevalent NEAAs in J.secunda and J.tanjorensis, respectively. The finding validates the richness of both plants in essential phytochemicals and other beneficial plant-based nutrients, and explains their traditional use in forkloric medicine practice.

Production of Nungu Candy: An Experimental Study

The palmyrah fruit is a naturally occurring, nutritionally dense fruit that has the potential to be a source of many goods with added value. Due to a lack of mechanisation and value addition, the juice of palmyrah is only available during certain seasons and is quite inexpensive. Palmyrah pulp is collected from the ripe fruit and is utilised in many traditional cuisine dishes. Fruit pulp aids in the treatment of skin inflammations. It is used to treat worm infestation as well as nausea and vomiting. It is employed as a liver tonic as well as an expectorant. The high amount of crude flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic chemicals may be responsible for the antioxidant action. Additionally, it is employed in folk medicine to treat a variety of illnesses. Due to the fruit pulp's significant therapeutic capabilities, it included both pectin and a sizable amount of saponin. Although seasonal, palmyrah fruits offer outstanding chemical and physical qualities for the creation of foods and drinks. There is a need for palmyrah that is prepared for serving.

Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction in Limau Peels (Citrus amblycarpa), Antioxidant Activity and Its Potential as an Inhibitor for Xanthine Oxidase

Antioxidant content in limau peel (Citrus amblycarpa) is well recognized to be high. Free radicals can be neutralized by antioxidants, which can then be employed as natural active components in pharmaceuticals. One of them is an alternative xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitor in lowering uric acid levels. Limau peel was extracted using the Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction method with ultrasonic waves showed optimum condition at amplitude of 45 in 50 minute and amplitude of 60 in 50 minute. The yield obtained was 9.07%. These results are obtained quickly without the use of solvents and excess energy. The results of phytochemical screening showed the presence of several secondary metabolites in limau peel extract, including Tannins, Phenolics, Glycoside Steroids, Flavonoids, and a small amount of Saponins. This study tested antioxidant activity using 3 different methods: the DPPH, CUPRAC, and FRAP methods. The antioxidant test results are shown in IC50 values with optimal gains of 33.40±0.01mg/L for DPPH, respectively; 21.38±0.04mg/L for CUPRAC; and 15.31±0.02mg/L for FRAP. Meanwhile, in testing the potential as a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, it was found that limau peel extract could reduce uric acid levels in vitro by 71.63±0.94%.

Arbuscular mycorrhiza and plant growth promoting endophytes facilitates accumulation of saponin under moderate drought stress

ObjectiveParis polyphylla var. yunnanensis, one of the important medicinal plant resources in Yunnan, China, usually takes 6–8 years to be harvested. Therefore, it is urgent to find a method that can not only shorten its growth years, but also improve its quality. In this study, we examined the effects of a combination treatment of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and plant growth-promoting endophytes (PGPE) and drought stress on the accumulation of saponins in it. MethodsP. polyphylla var. yunnanensis was infected with a mixture of AMF and PGPE under drought stress. The content of saponins, as well as morphological, physiological, and biochemical indicators, were all measured. The UGTs gene related to saponin synthesis was obtained from transcriptome data by homologous comparison, which were used for RT-PCR and phylogenetic analysis. ResultsRegardless of water, AMF treatment could infect the roots of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis, however double inoculation with AMF and PGPE (AMF + PGPE) would reduce the infection rate of AMF. Plant height, aboveground and underground fresh weight did not differ significantly between the single inoculation AMF and the double inoculation treatment under different water conditions, but the inoculation treatment significantly increased the plant height of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis compared to the non-inoculation treatment. Single inoculation with AMF considerably increased the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis leaves under various water conditions, but double inoculation with AMF + PGPE greatly increased the intercellular CO2 concentration and chlorophyll fluorescence parameter (Fv/Fm). Under diverse water treatments, single inoculation AMF had the highest proline content, whereas double inoculation AMF + PGPE may greatly improve the amount of abscisic acid (ABA) and indoleacetic acid (IAA) compared to normal water under moderate drought. Double inoculation AMF + PGPE treatment improved the proportion of N, P, and K in the rhizome of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis under various water conditions. Under moderate drought stress, AMF + PGPE significantly enhanced the contents of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis saponins I, II, VII, and total saponins as compared to normal water circumstances. Farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS), Geranyl pyrophosphate synthase (GPPS), Cycloartenol synthase (CAS), and Squalene epoxidase (SE1) were the genes that were significantly up-regulated at the same time. The amount of saponins was favorably linked with the expression of CAS, GPPS, and SE1. Saponin VI content and glycosyl transferase (UGT) 010922 gene expression were found to be substantially associated, as was saponin II content and UGT010935 gene expression. ConclusionUnder moderate drought, AMF + PGPE was more conducive to the increase of hormone content, nutrient absorption, and total saponin content in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis, and AMF + PGPE could up regulate the expression of key genes and UGTs genes in one or more steroidal saponin synthesis pathways to varying degrees, thereby stimulating the synthesis and accumulation of steroidal saponins in the rhizome of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis. The combination of AMF and PGPE inoculation, as well as adequate soil drought, reduced the buildup of saponins in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis and increased its quality.

Production of rare cycloartane saponins from Astragalus thracicus (Griseb) compared to Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge – native and biotechnological sources

The aim of this study is a comparative metabolomic analysis between the endangered species Astragalus membranaceus and endemic species Astragalus thracicus concerning cycloartane saponins. In addition, in vitro shoots, callus, and suspension cultures of A. thracicus were successfully established to conserve the biodiversity of those endemic species and to increase the amount of produced saponins. The comparison was made according to the quantity of cycloartane saponins astragaloside I (1), astragaloside II (2), and astragaloside IV (4) to the reference standards for the same compounds by UHPLC-HRESI-MS analysis. The in vitro root cultures of A. thracicus reached two folds higher amounts of saponins (1.50 mg/g DW (1), 1.01 mg/g DW (2), and 0.91 mg/g DW (3)) than the native root of A. thracicus (1.14 mg/g DW (1) 0.47 mg/g DW (2), 0.40 mg/g DW (3)), and up to six times higher when compared with roots A. membranaceus (0.23 mg/g DW (1), 0.18 mg/g DW (2) and 0.05 mg/g DW (3)).

Comparative Analytical Study of Madana Shalatu (Unripen Fruit of Randia Dumetorum Lam) and Phalapippali (Processed Fruits of Randia Dumetorum Lam) - A Study of Abhava Pratinidhi Dravya

Vamana is the Agrya karma for Kaphaja vikaras. Madanaphala - Randia dumetorum Lam is the drug of choice for Vamana karma because of its property – Anapayitwat (without untoward effect). Specific collection method, season and processing is required to get Phalapippali to possess above quality. Madana shalatu– Unripen fruits of Madanaphala is an Abhavapratinidhi dravya mentioned in Sushrutha Samhita and Ashtanga Hrudaya which does not require this processing- Samskara. So, in the present study comparative qualitative and quantitative physicochemical and phytochemical analysis of the Madana Shalatu, Pakwa Madanaphala Ripen fruit of Madanaphala and Madanaphala Pippali– Processed fruits of Madanaphala has been carried out. Aim: 1. Pharmacognostic, Physicochemical and Phytochemical analysis of Madana Shalatu, Pakwa Madanaphala, Madanaphala Pippali. 2. Comparative qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis of Madana Shalatu, Pakwa Madanaphala, Madanaphala Pippali. Method: 1. Pharmacognostic study – Macroscopic study and Microscopic study. 2. Preliminary physico chemical analysis. 3. Qualitative phyto chemical evaluation of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the test drugs. 4. Quantitative analysis– UV Spectrophotometry. Result: Microscopic study, qualitative phyto chemical evaluation of all test drugs did not showed much differences. In total saponin estimation by UV Spectrophotometry of methanol and Water extract of ripen processed fruits of Randia, Ripen fruits of Randia and Unripen fruits of Randia is found to contain 73.71, 83.23, 71.35 and 72.62, 92.44, 75.25µg DE/mL of Saponin content respectively. Conclusion: Quantity of Saponin which is the main active principle in Randia Dumetorum responsible for Vamana Karma was similar in the Madana Shalatu and in Phala Pippali, whereas it was highest in Pakwa Madanaphala, thus it may be used like Phala Pippali without any laborious process of Samskara. Further Toxicity studies and clinical trials are required to prove its safety and efficacy in humans.

BRONZE OR PINK LEAF, WHICH IS BEST FOR ANTIGFUNGAL USE OF ACALYPHA WILKESIANA ‘BRONZE PINK’?

Leaves of Acalypha wilkesiana ‘bronze pink’ once produced, change colour over time from green to bronze and then to pink. Leaves of all shades except green are often collected for treatment of skin fungal infections. The relationship between the phytochemical content and antifungal activity of different shades of leaves are studied. Bronze (approx. 100%), 50% pink/bronze and Pink (approx. 100%) coloured leaves were used for the analyses. Results showed that pink leaves have the highest amount of anthocyanins and the least total amount of chlorophyll while bronze leaves showed the highest total amount of chlorophyll and least amount of anthocyanins. Phytochemical analyses of leaf sample of Acalypha wilkesiana showed that bronze leaves recorded the least amount of saponins, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, phenolics while pink leaves showed the highest content of all. Aqueous and methanolic extracts of leaf samples were tested against Aspergilus flavus and Aspergilus terreus. Extracts of pink leaves recorded the highest zones of inhibition against the test organisms in both aqueous and methanolic while bronze leaves showed the least zones of inhibition against the same test organisms and solvents. Results of the study showed that the efficiency of the leaves of A. wilkesiana in treating skin diseases increases as the leaves turn from bronze to pink. Collectors for treatment of dermatophytes are therefore advised to harvest the pink leaves while giving the bronze leaves the opportunity to turn to pink before being used.

Phytochemical Analysis and In-vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Methanolic Leaves, Root and Stem Extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Cochlospermum tintorium and Erythrina senegalensis

Aim: This Study was design to determine the phytochemical and antimicrobial activities of leaves, roots and stem bark of Cochlospermum tentorium, Bryophyllum pinnatum, and Erythrina senegalensis obtained in Takum Town of Taraba state.
 Methods: The leaves, roots and stem bark of Cochlospermum tentorium, Bryophyllum pinnatum, and Erythrina senegalensis were obtained, dried, ground, and extracted using methanol. The antimicrobial activity of the extract at various concentration was tested using agar well diffusion techniques against three human pathogens by measuring zones of inhibition after incubation 24 hours
 Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycoside, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, tannins and steroids. Flavonoids were however absent in the leaf and stem bark of Cochlospermum tintorium, leaf and roots of Bryophyllum pinnatum, and leaf and roots of Erythrina senegalensis. Phenol and tannins were absent in the roots of Bryophyllum pinnatum. The quantitative screening shows that the leaf of Cochlospermum tintorium had the highest amount of glycoside (1.55mg/dl) while the roots had the least amount (0.81mg/dl). Stem bark of Bryophyllum pinnatum showed the highest amount of tannins (7.51mg/dl) while the leaf had the least (3.54mg/dl). Stem bark of Cochlospermum tintorium showed the highest amount of flavonoid (6.54mg/dl) while the leaf had the least (3.66mg/dl). Stem bark of Cochlospermum tintorium recorded the highest amount of phenol (4.37mg/dl) while the roots had the least (1.48mg/dl). The stem bark of Bryophyllum pinnatum recorded the highest amount of alkaloid (1.30mg/dl) while the leaf recorded the least (0.72mg/dl). Stem bark of Bryophyllum pinnatum showed the highest amount of saponins (2.85mg/dl) while the roots showed the least (1.57mg/dg). The methanolic leaf, root and stem bark extract of Cochlospermum tentorium had potent antibacterial activity, while Bryophyllum pinnatum, and Erythrina senegalensis had minimal antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, Klepsiella pneumonae and staphylococcus aureus.
 Conclusion: This result indicates that the methanolic leaf, root and stem bark extract of Cochlospermum tentorium had antimicrobial activity confirming the folklore claim. Thus, making a strong case for the isolation of novel antimicrobial agent from this plant.

Screening of Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activities in the Leaves, Stems and Roots of South African Portulacaria Afra using Four Extraction Solvents

Portulacaria afra, is indigenous to South Africa and has been identified to have several medicinal properties according to traditional knowledge and few studies. The drive around this research is to evaluate the medicinal properties of the leaves, stems and for the first time the roots extracts of Portulacaria afra, using four solvents with different polarities. The aqueous (60°C), methanol, n-hexane and ethyl acetate whole plant extracts of P. afra were investigated for their phytochemical properties, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. The phytochemical screening revealed that the methanolic and aqueous extracts of the leaves displayed high presence of secondary metabolites compared to n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts. The methanolic leaves extracts showed strong presence of quinones, phenols, steroid and coumarins while the aqueous leaves extracts contained a moderate presence of saponins, terpenoids, quinones and coumarins. Ethyl acetate leaves extracts revealed a strong presence of tannins, moderate presence of phytosteroids and a low presence of volatile oil. Meanwhile, the leaves extracts with n-hexane showed a considerable amount of saponins with a moderate presence, and a low presence of tannins, volatile oils and terpenoids. The methanolic stems extracts displayed the most significant presence of secondary metabolites, showing a high presence of terpenoids, steroids, phenols and coumarins. The aqueous stems extracts showed a strong presence of glycosides with a moderate presence of saponins. However, ethyl acetate and n-hexane stems extracts displayed a few secondary metabolites with their concentration ranging from medium to low. The ethyl acetate roots extracts displayed a significant elevated amount of quinones with a strong presence. n-hexane roots extracts showed a moderate presence of volatile oil and a low presence of tannins and steroids. Methanolic roots extracts showed a moderate presence of coumarins and glycosides while aqueous roots extracts showed a low presence of glycosides. The overall highest total phenolics contents (TPCs) and total flavonoids contents (TFCs) in all the plant parts, were found to be in the methanol stems extracts and aqueous roots extracts respectively. Next to the methanol leaves and aqueous leaves extracts respectively. However, in the root’s extracts, the aqueous extracts showed the highest total phenolics content while the water extracts had the highest total flavonoids contents. The antimicrobial activities of P. afra whole plant extracts with the various four solvents were tested against three microorganisms Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptomyces griseus using agar-well diffusion method. The Antimicrobial activity of the n-hexane extracts of the leaves, stems and roots of P. afra presented a wide range of inhibition against all the test microorganisms, ethyl acetate leaves extract showed a considerable effect against Staphylococcus aureus while the methanolic extracts were not active. Aqueous roots extracts demonstrated a strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus while the other extracts were not active. The zones of inhibition ranged from 13 to 24 mm for the plant extracts. The antioxidant activity potential of the aqueous, methanol, n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of P. afra leaves, stems and roots extracts were observed through a 2, 2 diphenylpicryhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical assay, hydrogen peroxide scavenging (H₂O₂) and metal chelating activity assay. Ethyl acetate roots extracts exhibited the strongest hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity compared to the other extracts. Meanwhile, aqueous stems extracts showed the highest antioxidant activity against DPPH radical. Aqueous and n-hexane roots extracts displayed the strongest metal chelating ability. These findings reveal the efficacy of the use of several solvents with different polarities for effective and more accurate extraction of various compounds and indicate that the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of P. afra parts are dependent on the solvent extracts.

Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Extracts of Viscum continuum E. Mey. Ex Sprague, a South African Mistletoe.

Viscum continuum E. Mey. Ex Sprague is a woody evergreen semi-parasitic shrub that grows on the branches of other trees. It is used by African traditional healers for post-stroke management. This study reports on the qualitative phytochemical screening and the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Viscum continuum’s acetone, methanol, hexane and dichloromethane extracts. Standard protocols for the phytochemical screening of extracts were employed. TLC bio-autography was used for qualitative antioxidants analysis. Assays: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, H2O2 free-radical scavenging and ferric chloride reducing power were carried out for quantitative antioxidant analysis. The antimicrobial potential of extracts was screened using disc diffusion, bio-autography and broth micro-dilution. The results indicate the presence of alkaloids, phenolics and tannins in all extracts. Acetone and methanol revealed significant amount of saponins, phenolics, tannins and terpenoids. The extracts exhibited significant antioxidant potential on TLC with positive compound bands at an Rf range of 0.05–0.89. DPPH, H2O2 and the reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ assays indicated that methanol extract has a strong antioxidant potential, followed by acetone, DCM and lastly hexane. The extracts of Viscum continuum show the potential to be antibacterial agents. It can be concluded that Viscum continuum extracts contain phytochemicals which are capable of mitigating against chronic health conditions such as cancer, stroke and stress-related and infectious diseases.

Qualitative and Quantitative Phytochemical Analysis of Andrographis Echioides Leaves.

Plants are the crucial resources and backbone of human life on earth and another main significance of plants is their medicinal properties. Medicinal plants provide an estimable source of lead compounds for the discovery of noble new drugs with few undesirable side effects. In this study, the Qualitative phytochemical analysis, quantitative estimation, and proximate analysis of phytochemical compounds with the importance pharmacological significance in various organic solvent extracts of Andrographis echioides leaves. Preliminary phytochemical screening analyses were determined using standard protocol methods. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of leaves extracts from Andrographis echioides was analyzed for the primary and secondary metabolites of phytochemical constituents such as sugar, protein, amino acids, Carbohydrates, alkaloid, Flavonoids, Terpenoids, Glycosides, Tannins, Gum, Mucilage, phenolic compounds, Phytosterols, Coumarin, Emodin, Saponin, Oils, and Fats were screened in different solvent extracts. Quantitative estimation of secondary metabolites from Andrographis echioides leaves are determined by using Standard methods and proximate analysis of fibre, protein, fat, total ash, and carbohydrate were carried out by using standard. Among the nine different extracts of Andrographis echioides, methanolic extract of the leaves showed the maximum amount of phytochemical was screened in Andrographis echioides. Quantitative estimation of leaves from Andrographis echioides contained maximum content of total phenols, flavonoids, Steroids, and Terpenoids with the minimum amount of saponins, alkaloids, and Tannin. The proximate analysis in percentage showed that Andrographis echioides leaves had the highest amount of Carbohydrates content 33.78% and Protein content 27.21%. and the lowest amount of Fibre content 10.56% Fat content 1.13% and ash content 7.32%. The presence of phytochemical compounds supports the traditional use of Andrographis echioides as an alternative treatment for curing certain health conditions. Further studies should be carried out to isolate specific phytochemical chemical constituents and should be used in different studies to explore their Biological effects.

Purified Saponins in Momordica charantia Treated with High Hydrostatic Pressure and Ionic Liquid-Based Aqueous Biphasic Systems.

Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae) is rich in saponins, which have multiple biological effects. In this study, the total saponins of M. charantia were extracted by high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technology. The optimal extraction process was determined (ethanol concentration 68%, pressure-holding time 8 min, ratio of material to solvent 1:35 and pressure 510 MPa), and the extraction amount of saponins reached 127.890 mg/g. On this basis, an ionic liquid-based aqueous biphasic system was constructed to purify the total saponins. Under the optimized conditions, the purity of M. charantia saponins was 76.06%. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) was used to characterize the saponins in the purified extract of M. charantia. It was found that there were four kinds of saponins in the extract of M. charantia: kuguaglycoside A, momordicoside L, kuguacin B and kuguacin J, providing a basis for the study of the biological activity of saponins.