Anthelmintic Properties Research Articles

Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant activity and anthelmintic effect of Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae) seeds in Lohman Brown cockerels

Helminths are diseases which exist frequently with the poultry. To cure these parasitosis, breeders use very often synthetic products which are source of food poisoning for the consumers. However, past studies showed that some plants are known to their anthelmintic properties. For sanitary biosafety, the current study aimed to gauge helminthic capacity of papaya seed and established the relationship between phytochemical composition and anthelminthic activity. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses were carried out to identify phytoconstituents endowed with anthelmintic activity. Bioguided analyses were carried out in three months upon 260 Lohmann Brown cockerels which were divided in 5 batches: T-, T+, GP1, GP2, and GP. Cockerels of batches GP1, GP2 and GP3 received in their food papaya seed powder (5%) per month, respectively for one, two and three days. Batch T- did not receive any treatment but cockerels of batch T+ were treated by Levamisole (25%) on day per month. Phytochemical tests revealed the presence of alkaloids, reducing compounds, flavonoids, tannins, proteins and coumarins as chemical group in the seeds. Bioguided analyses proved that the reduction rates of number of EPG in batches T+, GP1, GP2, et GP3 are respectively: 90.08; 28.00; 53.00, and 90.35, but it was negative in batch T-. Batches T+ and GP3 presented higher average weekly gains, while average cumulative weight gains were identical for batches T+ and GP3. Nevertheless, it was batch GP3 that provided the lowest consumption index. In fact, cockerel treatment with papaya seed present almost the same anthelminthic efficacy as Levamisole.

A pharmacological investigation for therapeutic potential of Callistemon citrinus as an anthelmintic agent (Bottle-Brush Plant)

The growing resistance of parasitic helminths to standard anthelmintic medications has sparked increased interest in exploring alternative treatments, particularly those derived from herbal sources. This research focuses on the anthelmintic properties of selected herbal plants, assessing their ability to inhibit and eliminate parasitic worms. Standard extraction techniques were employed to prepare various plant extracts, which were then tested using both in vitro and in vivo assays to determine their effectiveness. The findings revealed that several plant extracts showed significant anthelmintic effects, comparable to those of conventional medications. Phytochemical analysis identified a high concentration of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and flavonoids, which are thought to be the primary contributors to the observed activity. These results indicate that these herbal plants may serve as promising natural anthelmintic agents, providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic drugs. Further research is necessary to isolate and identify the specific bioactive compounds, clarify their mechanisms of action, and assess their safety and efficacy in clinical applications. This study highlights the potential of herbal medicine in developing novel anthelmintic treatments and encourages the integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific research.

Assessing the efficacy of Stemona collinsiae roots extract against third-stage larvae of Gnathostoma spinigerum and its safety profiles

Gnathostomiasis, caused by the advanced third-stage larvae of Gnathostoma spinigerum, demands novel treatment avenues. The ethanolic root extract of Stemona collinsiae has been postulated to have anthelminthic properties, suggesting its potential as an alternative remedy. In this study, S. collinsiae roots were collected, identified, and extracted with 95 % ethanol. The crude extracts were standardized using didehydrostemofoline as chemical marker. The efficacy of the S. collinsiae root extract against third-stage larvae of G. spinigerum and its toxicity to Wistar rats were evaluated. Both in vitro and in vivo tests were performed, where the in vitro tests assessed the anthelminthic potential of S. collinsiae extract against G. spinigerum larvae, while in vivo tests examined the extract's efficacy against G. spinigerum larvae in infected Wistar rats and the efficacy was compared with albendazole. Parallelly, Wistar rats underwent acute and sub-chronic toxicity tests to establish the safe dosage of the extract. The in vitro tests showcased significant anthelminthic activity, marked by discernible morphological alterations in the exposed larvae. Acute toxicity proved fatal at 2000 mg/kg body weight, while a dose of 300 mg/kg proved non-toxic. Using the Globally Harmonized Classification System, an LD50 of 500 mg/kg was determined. In vivo trials revealed a pronounced decline in G. spinigerum larvae among rats treated with the S. collinsiae extract. The larvae were also observed to be encysted post-treatment, while those treated with albendazole were not encysted. The S. collinsiae extract, with its noteworthy in vitro efficacy and favorable safety metrics in rodents, can be a potential anthelminthic agent. The diminished inflammatory response compared to albendazole hints at S. collinsiae being a safer gnathostomiasis treatment alternative. The promising results in these preliminary trials warrant a deeper investigation to determine the root extract's optimal dosing, suitable delivery methods, and its broader clinical implications.

Nutraceutical and Functional Food Potentials of African Black Elimi (Canarium schweinfurthii): A Review

Study’s Excerpt The potentials of Canarium schweinfurthii in traditional African medicine in treating various ailments due to its rich bioactive composition is extensively explored. 80 publications were synthesized to gather the plant’s diverse nutraceutical and functional properties. The plant has antimalarial, anti-cancer, and antioxidant effects, among others. Full Abstract Medicinal plants have been central to African traditional medicine for centuries, preceding the development of synthetic drugs. Africa is blessed with large medicinal plants that are either under-explored or yet to be studied. This study aimed to find relevant research works on Canarium schweinfurthii with the purpose of identifying a new research niche. One hundred eighteen (118) research journals were collected, and 80 publications were synthesized and used to identify non-repeated experiments on the functional and nutraceutical potentials of Canarium schweinfurthii. The results of the review revealed that different parts of the plant including leaves, stem bark, roots, fruits, seeds, flowers, gum, and resin were traditionally employed in treating a range of ailments, including diabetes, stomach ulcers, malaria, typhoid, leprosy, reproductive disorders, and fever which are attributed to plant’s richness for nutraceutical and functional properties, driven by the presence of bioactive compounds such as antioxidants, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. Nutraceutical and functional investigations of the plant have corroborated the antimalarial, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, analgesic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial, growth-promoting, nephroprotective, food preservative, anthelmintic, and termiticidal properties of the fruit pulp, fruit bark, stem bark, fruit oil, seed oil of Canarium schweinfurthii. This review recommends the plant for proper establishment of a foundation for the plant’s pharmaceutical application and underscores the need for further research.

Efficacy and Safety of Mebendazole in the Treatment of Intestinal Helminth Infections

Mebendazole was introduced in 1971 and is not soluble in water or other organic solvents, it is also not absorbed from the intestinal tract in a high-fat context. Both albendazole and mebendazole have a low rate of absorption in the human intestine. These drugs primarily target parasites in the stomach's lumen, and their metabolites are effective against parasites in the stomach's muscles and tissues. For instance, albendazole sulfoxide is the primary metabolite that possesses anthelmintic properties. Metabolites of mebendazole are expelled in the urine. Both drugs negatively affect the function of microtubules in parasites and mammalian cells, this results in the depletion of the parasites' glycogen stores. Current helminth control strategies involve periodic deworming with albendazole or mebendazole. However, concerns about drug resistance and the persistence of high prevalence rates suggest the need for additional strategies, such as improved water, sanitation, and hygiene, and optimized treatment regimens. Albendazole and mebendazole are highly effective against Ascaris lumbricoides, with a single dose of albendazole showing a cure rate of 96% and mebendazole showing a cure rate of 92.3%. Mebendazole's efficacy against hookworms varies, but a recommended dosing regimen improves effectiveness. Mebendazole's effectiveness against Trichuris trichiura depends on the dosing regimen. It is less effective against hymenolepiasis, where praziquantel is preferred. Mebendazole has also been used to treat Giardia lamblia infections. In summary, STH infections are a significant health issue, and albendazole and mebendazole are commonly used drugs for treatment. However, there is a need for additional strategies to address drug resistance and improve treatment efficacy. Mebendazole has potential side effects and should be used with caution, especially during pregnancy.

Phytochemical Characterization and Investigation of Anthelminthic, Antidiabetic, and Toxicological Effects of Polyscias scutellaria

Aim: Research findings indicate that MEPSL exhibits Very significant anthelmintic, antidiabetic, and moderate toxicological properties. They may endorse the plant's utilization in mainstream medicine for reducing drug intoxication, and managing diabetes and parasitic disorders. Place and Duration of Study: The research was undertaken at Stamford University Bangladesh during the period from September 6th, 2023 to April 28th, 2024. Methodology: The current study examined the properties of Polyscias scutellaria leaf, including its In vitro anthelminthic, In vivo antidiabetic, and toxicological effects, using a crude methanol extract. The leaf powder of the dried plant was extracted using methanol. After phytochemical screening, the methanolic extract (MEPSL) underwent additional testing to evaluate its anthelminthic, antidiabetic, and toxicological activities. The earthworm assay was utilized to conduct anthelminthic testing with various concentrations. A study was conducted on Swiss albino mice to evaluate the antidiabetic effects. The Blood Glucose Determination test was performed using doses of 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg. The toxicological tests for acute toxicity were conducted using cinnamon oil at doses of 3000, 5000, and 7000 mg/kg. During the phytochemical screening process, compounds such as carbohydrates, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, and reducing sugars were found in MEPSL. Results: According to the MEPSL findings, the earthworm met its demise after 30 minutes and 24 seconds during the 100 mg/mL anthelminthic test. In contrast, Albendazole took a significantly longer time of 38 minutes and 18 seconds to achieve the same result. MEPSL showed a remarkable reduction in blood glucose levels compared to the standard Glibenclamide. In toxicological testing, a dosage of 5000 mg/kg resulted in the mortality of 3 out of 5 mice, while the application of cinnamon oil led to the death of all 5 mice within 24 hours. Conclusion: Research findings suggest that MEPSL possesses highly significant anthelmintic and antidiabetic properties, along with moderate toxicological effects. These findings may support the integration of the plant into conventional medicine for mitigating drug toxicity and treating diabetes and parasitic infections.

Anthelmintic Activity of Alcoholic Leaf Extract of Tectona grandis

Background: Helminthiasis is a major concern in the livestock sector due to the immense afflictions in the production and economy of the farmer. Chemical anthelmintics are used to combat them and parasites are acquiring resistance against these drugs. Hence, the development of new drugs or alternatives is the need of the hour for combating such infestations. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of methanolic leaf extract of Tectona grandis on strongyles. Materials and Methods: The dried leaves of Tectona grandis were subjected to Soxhlet extraction using methanol, and the extract was tested for its anthelmintic activity in vitro using egg hatch assay and larval motility assay. A dose of 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25, 15.625, and 7.8125 mg/ mL was used for the study. Fresh strongyle ova were exposed to different concentrations of the extract and observed after 48 hours for the hatch. L3 larvae obtained from coproculture were subjected to treatment with extract at different concentrations, and mortality per unit time was calculated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) were performed to identify the chemical nature of the extract. Results: There was a dose-dependent inhibition of hatch and larval mortality with a maximum inhibition of hatch at 250 mg/mL. There was a cent percent hatch in control wells and no loss of progressive motility in the larval motility test. On exposure to the extract, the larvae progressively lost their motility, and finally, there were caesurae of movement which indicated their death. The extract at 250 mg/mL killed all the larvae by 30 min, whereas, at 31.25 mg/mL, the mortality was 66.6% after 2 hr. Conclusion: The results suggest that methanolic extract from Tectona grandis leaves has a promising anthelmintic property and further studies are required for the isolation of active molecules.

A Brief Review Article on Carica papaya and its Medical Advantages

Carica papaya is a member of the Caricaceae family and is frequently referred to as "papaya." Carica papaya has been utilized in Ayurvedic therapy for centuries. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic, antibacterial, abortifacient, vermifuge, hypoglycemia, antifungal, anthelminthic, and hypoglycemic properties. Immunomodulatory, and so forth. Scientific research suggests that they have a diverse biological purpose that sustains their existence. Traditionally, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments It is used to cure a variety of infections such as dengue fever, warts, corns, sinuses, skin inflammation, diabetes, glandular tumors, blood pressure, digestive disorders, constipation, antibacterial, antifertility, anti-HIV, expel worms, excite regeneration organs, and many more. The current study is on the nutritional content, health benefits, medicinal benefits, and synthetic elements of papaya.

Evaluation of anthelmintic activity of the essential oils from leaves and rind of Aegle marmelos (Linn.) Correa ver. Bel of family Rutaceae of Pakistan

In this study ‘anthelmintic activity of essential oils (EOs), of leaves and rind of Aegle marmelos (Linn.) Correa ver. Bel was evaluated. ‘Adult motility assay’ was employed using Haemoncus contortus adult worms. EO was applied at three levels viz. 10, 35 and 50µL/10 ml in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) plus 10µL of tween 20 (as carrier/emulsifier). Levamisole was used as a positive control at 0.55 mg/ml concentration. Each concentration of essential oils obtained from different plant parts exhibited varied anthelmintic activity. The best dose dependant effect on adult mortality was by EOs from Aegel rind (R2 values 0.981) followed by EOs from leaves (R2 values 0.86.). LC50 were 34.92 and 26.65 for rind and leaves EOs respectively. Change in the color of the dead worms was an indicator parameter of the fact that the EOs might have damaged the skin of the worms or after transcutaneous penetration into the body has disrupted the circulatory system by causing constriction of blood vessels. It is concluded that EOs extracted from A. marmelos have anthelmintic properties.

Evaluation of Anthelmintic Activities of Persea americana and Musa sikkimensis

The goal was to know about the anthelmintic properties of the leaves of P. americana and peels of M. sikkimensis. An ethanolic extract from the leaves of P. americana and aqueous extract of M. sikkimensis was used to screen for phytochemicals and analyse the anthelmintic activity on Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma to determine its therapeutic capabilities. The experiment was carried out by preparing standard drug solution (Albendazole), P. americana leaf extract and M. sikkimensis peel extract in a concentration range of 5mg/ml, 10mg/ml and 20mg/ml respectively for each. The earthworms were placed in a beaker with solutions of varying concentrations. The time of paralysis and death was noted and plotted in a graph. From the results, it was found that P. americana and M. sikkimensis extract caused paralysis in less time in a dose-dependent manner, as well as the death was caused much earlier compared to the control group. This suggests that P. americana and M. sikkimensis extract exhibited strong anthelmintic activity. Furthermore, a link has been found between anthelmintic activity and high levels of flavonoids, terpenoids and tannins. Flavonoids, tannins and terpenoids found in various extracts have been proven to have anthelmintic properties in earlier investigations. Persea americana have been reported to have alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, steroids, tannins, proteins, and Musa sikkimensis have been reported to have alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, tannins, proteins. These results lead to the conclusion that P. americana and M. sikkimensis extract may possess anthelmintic activity. Keywords: Anthelmintic activity, Helminth, Musa, Avocado

Phytochemical analysis of phenolic compounds by using LCMS of Urginea indica

Background: Urginea indica is known as a medicinal plant because it contains many chemical compounds with medicinal peroperties. Numerous bioactive components, including alkylresorcinols, bufadienolides, phytosterols, and flavonoids, are present in the plant, particularly in the bulb. The plant possesses antimicrobial, anthelmintic, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, and wound healing properties, as demonstrated by numerous scientific investigations. This study is carried out to investigate the various chemical constituents that may be present in the plant, including tannins, phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, carbohydrates, resins, quinones, and saponins. Objective: In this study, it was aimed to calculate the total phenolic content from ethanolic extact of bulb of Urginea indica (UI) and to characterize the phytochemicals present in it with the help of LCMS. Materials and Methods: UI collected from Hamirpur himachal Pradesh, and then bulbous parts of UI were air dried. The powdery form of bulb of was extracted with ethanol, and the phytochemical composition of the bulb extracts was analyzed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method. To determine the total phenolic content the Folin-Ciocalteu method was used. Results: The LC-MS analyses identified 12 compounds in the ethanolic extract of UI. Based on the results it was appeared that UI has phenolic content in its extract.

Evaluation of Anticancer, Anthelminthic, Anti-Nociceptive, Antidiabetic and Toxicological Investigation of Ludwigia adscendens

The present research investigated Ludwigia adscendens crude methanol extract invitro anticancer anthelminthic, and invivo anti-nociceptive, antidiabetic and toxicological properties. The coarsely dried plant powder was extracted using methanol. The methanolic extract (MELA) was further tested for anticancer, anthelminthic, anti-nociceptive, antidiabetic and toxicological activities. Cell Viability Assay was used for anticancer testing, and the earthworm assay was used for anthelminthic testing using different concentrations. Antinociceptive tests were done on Swiss albino mice at 200 and 400 mg/kg utilizing a hot plate, acetic acid induced writhing & formalin-induced paw licking tests. Antidiabetic test was done using Blood Glucose Determination test using the dose of 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg. Acute toxicity was tested utilizing cinnamon oil-induced toxicological tests at 3000, 5000 and 7000 mg/kg. The MELA demonstrated 39.16% inhibition at 1000µg/mL in the Cell Viability Assay. The earthworm died after 6 minutes and 4 seconds in the 100 mg/mL anthelminthic test, whereas Albendazole killed it in 4 minutes and 20 seconds. Hot plate test results were substantial. The formalin-induced nociception test demonstrated strong inhibition rates of 79.54% in the early phase and 74.54% in the late phase at 400 mg/kg, compared to 62.99% and 68.18% for diclofenac sodium. Acetic acid-induced writhing test showed 77.66% of pain inhibition where’s Diclofenac sodium showed 79.61%. MELA inhibited blood glucose level very significantly compared to the standard Glibenclamide. In toxicological testing, 7000 mg/kg killed mice 2/5, whereas cinnamon oil killed 5/5 within 24 hours. The study shows that MELA has moderate anticancer, significant anthelmintic, anti-nociceptive, antidiabetic and mild toxicological properties. They may support the plant's use in conventional medicine to relieve pain, minimize drug intoxication, and prevent cancer, control diabetes and parasitic disorders.

Antiparasitic activity of the steroid-rich extract of Schima wallichii against poultry cestode.

Schima wallichii Korth., commonly known as the needlewood tree (family Theaceae) has therapeutic uses in traditional Mizo medicine for human helminthiasis and serves as a balm against ectoparasites in animals. Although the medicinal properties have been studied experimentally, its use as a traditional anthelmintic remains unexplored. This study aimed to analyze the chemical components and antiparasitic activity of S. wallichii. The chemical analysis of S. wallichi bark extracts was conducted focusing on the secondary metabolites using petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the specific compounds. An anthelmintic susceptibility test was carried out against Raillietina tetragona, intestinal cestode parasite of fowl. The methanol extract yielded the highest concentrations of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, sterols, saponins, and tannins among all the extracts. Sterols were the most abundant compounds in all extracts, with flavonoids being absent. Secondary metabolites were largely absent in the petroleum ether and chloroform extracts. The GC-MS data identified cholest-22-ene-21-ol as the major steroid component. The cestode parasite was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by the plant extract. The plant extract's anthelmintic activity was evident through observable damage to the parasite's outer structure. Phytosterols in S. wallichii bark are responsible for its anthelmintic properties. The mechanism and pharmaceutical properties of the anthelmintic molecule require further exploration.

Evaluation of anthelmintic efficacy of ethanolic leaf extract of Juglans regia L. on Ascaridia galli: a comprehensive in vitro and in vivo study.

Anthelmintic resistance in livestock animals has been spreading across the world in prevalence and severity. As a result, researchers are exploring alternative strategies to combat this issue, and one promising avenue is the utilization of medicinal plants. This study aims to investigate the anthelmintic efficacy of the crude ethanolic extract (CEE) derived from the leaves of Juglans regia against one of the most detrimental nematode parasites affecting poultry, namely Ascaridia galli (A. galli). For the in vitro studies, adult A. galli worms were collected from the naturally infected chickens and the efficacy of CEE was measured at the concentration of 25, 50, and 100mg/ml using adult worm motility inhibition (WMI) assay. In addition, levamisole (0.55mg/ml) was used as the positive control. Likewise, Phosphate buffered saline (PBS) was used as the negative control. For the in vivo studies, CEE of J.regia at the doses of 500, 1000, and 2000mg/kg were evaluated in chickens experimentally infected with A. galli. The anthelmintic efficacy was monitored using faecal egg count reduction (FECR) and worm count reduction (WCR) assays. In vitro studies revealed significant (P < 0.001) anthelmintic effects of CEE of J.regia on the motility of A. galli worms at different hours post-exposure. At the concentration of 100mg/ml, CEE resulted in 96.5% inhibition of worm motility at 24h post-exposure. While the synthetic anthelmintic drug, levamisole caused the highest inhibition of worm motility (100%) at the same time period. The in vivo anthelmintic activity of CEE of J. regia demonstrated a maximum effect on day 14 post-treatment by inducing 67.28% FECR and 65.03% WCR. We observed no significant difference (P > 0.05) in worm counts between the negative control group and the chickens treated with CEE at the dosage of 500mg/kg. Together, the results of the present study suggest that CEE of J. regia leaves possess anthelmintic properties and could be a potential source of novel anthelmintic compounds for controlling helminth parasites.

ANTIOXIDANT, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY, ANTIDIABETIC, ANTHELMINTHIC, AND THROMBOLYTIC ACTIVITY OF THE METHANOL EXTRACT OF CITRULLUS LANATUS PEEL

Background: The present study aimed for in vitro evaluation of Citrullus lanatus Peel (CLP) methanol extract for antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anthelmintic, and thrombolytic activity. Method: CLP was extracted with methanol and tested for in vitro antioxidative (DPPH and H2O2 scavenging method), thrombolytic, anthelmintic, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties (human red blood cell membrane stabilization method, α-amylase inhibitory effect by using Iodine-Starch method. Results: The percentage yield was 7% and phytochemical profile showed the presence of steroid, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycoside and reducing sugar. In DPPH scavenging assay, 88.7% was at 1000 g/ml, whereas 34% to 48.9% (IC50 27.65 µg/ml) in H2O2 and from 61.8% to 95.2% (IC50 value: 07 µg/ml) in ASCOR. In in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, the maximum protection percentage was observed 58% and 44%. Consecutively, in anti-diabetic activity, IC50 values of 1137.64 μg/ml whereas reference (Acarbose) exhibited IC50 at 671.71 μg/ml. On the other hand, the inhibitory effect of Acarbose showed 57% and 98% respectively at 2000 μg/ml. In earthworms, it considered as very potential for the helminthic infection and helminthiasis. A significant clot lysis activity of 44% was noticed when the clots were treated with 100 µl of CLP extract (10 mg/ml) in in-vitro thrombolytic activity assay. Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that the peel possessed the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anthelminthic and thrombolytic activities. These findings will be motivated to do further research on molecular level to finds into more depth which is considered as the limitation of this study. Peer Review History: Received 3 February 2024; Revised 12 March 2024; Accepted 20 April; Available online 15 May 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10 Reviewers: Dr. Gehan Fawzy Abdel Raoof Kandeel, Pharmacognosy Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt, gehankandeel9@yahoo.com Dr. Francis Adou Yapo, Felix Houphouet Boigny, University of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, fyapo@yahoo.fr

Assessment of ethanol leaf extract from urtica dioica for in vitro Anti-Helminthic properties

Helminthic infections continue to be a significant public health concern worldwide, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. With the increasing prevalence of drug resistance among helminths, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments derived from natural sources. Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including its purported anthelmintic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro anti-helminthic activity of ethanol leaf extract of Urtica dioica against helminth parasites. Fresh leaves of Urtica dioica were collected, dried, and powdered. The ethanol leaf extract was prepared using standard extraction methods. Various concentrations of the extract were tested against helminth parasites using established in vitro assays. The efficacy of the extract was determined by assessing parameters such as paralysis and mortality of the parasites. Preliminary findings indicate that the ethanol leaf extract of urtica dioica possesses significant anti-helminthic activity against the tested parasites. The extract exhibited dose-dependent paralysis and mortality of the helminths, with higher concentrations demonstrating greater efficacy. These results suggest the potential of Urtica dioica as a natural source of anthelmintic agents. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed anti-helminthic activity and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Urtica dioica extract in vivo. Additionally, investigations into the underlying mechanisms of action and potential synergistic effects with conventional anthelmintic drugs may provide valuable insights for the development of novel therapeutic interventions against helminthic infections. The study results when compared to standard drug of fenbendazole, ethanolic extract of Urtica dioica possess a good significant anti-helmentic activity compared to standard drug of fenbendazole.

In vitro and in vivo anthelmintic effect of essential oil obtained from Thymus capitatus flowers against Haemonchus contortus and Heligmosomoides polygyrus

Sheep haemonchosis is a disease that causes serious losses in livestock production, particularly with the increase of cases of anthelmintic resistance around the world. This justifies the urgent need of alternative solutions. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical profile, in vitro, and, in vivo, anthelmintic properties of Thymus capitatus essential oil. To evaluate the, in vitro, anthelmintic activity of the T. capitatus EO on Haemonchus contortus, two tests were used: egg hatch assay (EHA) and adult worm motility (AWM) assay. The nematicidal effect of this oil was evaluated, in vivo, in mice infected artificially with Heligmosomoides polygyrus using faecal egg count reduction (FECR) and total worm count reduction (TWCR). Chromatographic characterization of T.capitatus composition using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) demonstrated the presence of carvacrol (81.16%), as the major constituents. The IC50 values obtained was 1.9 mg/mL in the EHT. In the AWM assay; T. capitatus essential oil achieved 70.8% inhibition at 1 mg/mL after 8 h incubation. The in vivo, evaluation on H. polygyrus revealed a significant nematicidal effect 7 days post-treatment by inducing 49.5% FECR and 64.5% TWCR, using the highest dose (1600 mg/kg). The results of present study, demonstrate that T.capitatus EO possess a significant anthelmintic properties. Furthermore, it could be an alternative source of anthelmintic agents against gastrointestinal infections caused by H. contortus.

Phytochemical and Invitro Antihelmintic Activity of Aqueous Polyherbal Seed Extract against Pheretima Postuma

The present study was to evaluate the phytochemical screening and anthelmintic activity of aqueous polyherbal seeds extract (APSE) against Pheretima posthuma. The seeds of Coriandrum sativum, Sesamum indicum, Glycine max, Momordica charantiana trachyspermum ammi, was identified and purchased from local market of Nuzvid. APSE was prepared from the dried seeds of five different plants using the solvent water. Initially, APSE was screened for phytochemical constituents by standard methods. Further, antihelmintic study was conducted against Pheretima posthuma, collected from local Vermicomposting Farm, Nuzvid. In the phytochemical screening, APSE showed presence of glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, phytosterols and tannins. In the anthelmintic study, mortality was produced in earth worm populations by APSE. The use of APSE as an anthelmintic was confirmed by using standard method against Pheretima posthuma. The results indicated that the test drug has significant anthelmintic properties. The data were found statistically significant by using one way ANOVA (P&lt; 0.0001). Hence, it can be concluded that the APSE can be used as a novel drug for the treatment of worm infestations.

Supplementation of Acacia dealbata versus Acacia mearnsii leaf-meal has potential to maintain growth performance of lambs grazing low-quality communal rangelands in South Africa

Supplementing livestock grazing communal rangelands with leaf-meals from Acacia trees, which are currently considered as problematic invasive alien plants globally, may be a sustainable way of exploiting their desirable nutritional and anthelmintic properties. The current study evaluated worm burdens and growth performance of lambs grazing low-quality communal rangelands supplemented with leaf-meals prepared from the invasive alien plant species; Acacia mearnsii or A. dealbata. Forty, three-month-old ewe lambs weighing an average of 18.9 ± 0.60 kg were randomly allocated to four supplementary diets: (1) rangeland hay only (control), (2) commercial protein supplement plus rangeland hay, (3) A. mearnsii leaf-meal plus rangeland hay and (4) A. dealbata leaf-meal plus rangeland hay. All the supplementary diets were formulated to meet the lambs’ minimum maintenance requirements for protein. All the lambs were grazed on communal rangelands daily from 0800 to 1400 after which they were penned to allow them access to their respective supplementary diets until 08:00 the following morning. The respective supplementary diets were offered at the rate of 400 g ewe− 1 day− 1 for 60 days. Lambs fed the commercial protein supplement had the highest dry matter intake followed by those fed the Acacia leaf-meals and the control diet, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). Relative to the other supplementary diets, lambs fed the commercial protein supplement and A. dealbata leaf-meal had higher (P ≤ 0.05) final body weight and average daily gains. Dietary supplementation did not affect lamb faecal worm egg counts over the study period (P > 0.05). There was no association between supplementary diets and lamb FAMACHA© scores (P > 0.05). It was concluded that supplementation of Acacia dealbata versus Acacia mearnsii has the potential to emulate commercial protein in maintaining growth performance of lambs grazing communal rangelands in the dry season.

Investigation of Anthelmintic Property of Cow Urine Distillate on Ascaris and Trichuris eggs Isolated from Soil

Background: Helminth infection occurs due to contact with contaminated soils and poor hygiene practices. Even though there is immense progression in human medicine, infections that occur due to bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites persist as a crucial threat to public health. Over the years, many studies indicated cow urine has antimicrobial activity. Hence, this study looks into anthelminthic property of cow urine in Ascaris spp., and Trichuris spp., eggs. Methods: The soil sample was collected at the riverside, near the toilet area and at the pond area at an aborigine village in Malaysia. Next, floatation technique was used to isolate the helminth eggs and it was identified using a light microscope. The cow urine was prepared as raw cow urine (RCU), evaporated raw cow urine diluted with distilled water (ERCUD), evaporation raw cow urine diluted with saline (ERCUS) and evaporated filtered cow urine diluted with saline (EFCUS).Results: From the soil samples, mainly two types of helminths were found which were Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. Evaporated cow urine diluted with saline showed the most prominent result in the destruction of helminth eggs.Conclusion: Evaporated cow urine possesses biochemical agents that can be used in the future as anthelmintic agents whereby further studies can be made to explore more possibilities to use cow urine as a potential anthelmintic agent.Keywords: Cow urine; Helminth eggs; Anthelmintic