Anti-inflammatory Activity Research Articles

Acute inflammation upregulates FAHFAs in adipose tissue and in co-cultured adipocytes

Since the discovery of fatty acid hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs), significant progress has been made in understanding their regulation, biochemistry, and physiological activities. Here, we contribute to this understanding by revealing that inflammation induces the production of fatty acid hydroxy stearic acids (FAHSAs) and fatty acid hydroxyoctadecadienoic acids (FAHODEs) in white adipose tissue depots and in adipocytes co-cultured with macrophages. In LPS-induced co-culture systems, we confirm that adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) is required for inflammation-induced FAHFA generation and demonstrate that inflammation is necessary for producing hydroxy fatty acids. Chemically synthesized FAHODEs show anti-inflammatory activities in vivo, but only at supraphysiological concentrations. While endogenous FAHFAs are unlikely to be anti-inflammatory due to their low concentrations, conversion of pro-inflammatory hydroxy fatty acids into FAHFAs may modulate inflammation. We test this concept by showing the pro-inflammatory lipids—hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4)—are converted into FAHFAs in cell culture, and that two LTB4-derived FAHFAs have are modestly anti- not pro-inflammatory. Further research is needed to establish whether these increased FAFHA levels have a role in inflammation or are simply markers of inflammation, but the discovery of significant increases in FAHFA upon acute inflammation advances our knowledge of FAHFAs.

A rare prenylated isoflavone-quinone from the roots of Flemingia philippinensis

In order to make more rational use of Flemingia Philippinensis, a systematic separation from the roots of F. philippinensis was performed in the current study. The investigation of chemical constituents resulted in the isolation of a rare prenylated isoflavone-quinone, fleminquinone A (1), together with four known analogues (2–5). Their structures were established by extensive physical and spectroscopic data analysis. Anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide induced mouse mononuclear macrophage leukemia cells RAW 264.7 model. Compound 1 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on LPS-induced NO production and COX-2. Compound 1 also significantly affected the levels of inflammatory cytokines.

Controlling of Oral Pathogens and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Cymbopogon citratus and Zingiber officinale

Controlling of Oral Pathogens and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Cymbopogon citratus and Zingiber officinale

Design, Synthesis, Anti-inflammatory Evaluation and In silico Molecular Docking of Novel Furan-based Derivatives as Potential TNF-α Production Inhibitors

Introduction: Inflammation is the first response and an alarming signal for the onset of chronic disease. Most of the anti-inflammatory drugs available in the market are reported to have undesirable gastrointestinal toxicities. Therefore, it is of urgent significance to develop anti-inflammatory drugs with low toxicity and good efficacy. Methods: We created a targeted scaffold based on a literature review by combining the different structural characteristics of furan and benzyl amides into a single pharmacophore. A series of eighteen furanbased derivatives (1-18) were designed, synthesized for in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The characterization of synthesized compounds was elucidated by techniques like 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FT-IR and MS. Results: The synthetic compounds were examined through molecular docking studies on TNF-α for probable binding mode and interactions with hydrophilic and hydrophobic pocket of TNF-α in comparison to standard drug (Indomethacin). Conclusion: When compared to the standard treatment, compounds 18, 15 and 9 displayed a remarkable inhibitory effect on the production of TNF-α and in vivo inflammatory activity with no damage to stomach and reduction of LPO. The compounds 18, 15 and 9 might be a good consideration for potential antiinflammatory agents.

Anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory activities of Marrubiin isolated from Marrubium vulgare: Indications of its interaction with PPAR γ

BackgroundThe aerial parts of Marrubium vulgare L. were used for many ailments like catarrh to diabetes in many parts of Latin America and Asia. PurposeIdentifying the active principle responsible for anti-diabetic activity of methanol extract of M. vulgare leaves and to predict the possible targets. Study designAll the activity investigations were conducted simultaneously for the extract, fraction, and isolated compounds to decipher the activity profile in comparison to each other which allowed the identification of an active principle followed by use of in silico methods to identify the possible target/s. MethodsThe aerial parts of M. vulgare were extracted using methanol. A chloroform fraction was prepared. Marrubiin and marrubinone B were isolated from this fraction. The anti-hyperglycemic, hypoglycemic, and postprandial blood glucose lowering activities were investigated using streptozotocin-induced diabetic and non-diabetic rat models. Pro-inflammatory cytokine inhibitory potential was investigated using LPS induced acute-inflammatory mouse model and RAW 264.7 cells. Further, antioxidant activity was investigated using a DPPH assay. The in silico analysis, using the Swiss-target prediction tool, was carried out to predict the probable targets of the isolated molecules. ResultsMarrubiin exhibited anti-hyperglycemic effect in diabetic rats followed by hypoglycemia, and postprandial blood glucose lowering in non-diabetic rats. Methanol extract (Mv extract) and chloroform fraction (Mv fraction) showed anti-hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic effects. Moderate inhibition of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 was observed for marrubiin, marrubinone B, Mv extract, and Mv fraction, in vitro and in vivo. Neither marrubiin nor marrubinone B could quench the DPPH free radicals while Mv extract and Mv fraction could show 80 % suppression. In silico analysis has predicted that marrubiin can interact with PPAR γ but not marrubinone B. ConclusionsMarrubiin and marrubinone B were responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect of Mv extract and Mv fraction while not contributing to the antioxidant effect. Marrubiin was found to be responsible for the anti-diabetic activity of Mv extract. The predicted interaction propensity of marrubiin with PPAR γ could explain its dual activity observed in the experimental setup.

Antiosteoporotic activity of nodakenetin, a coumarin compound from Angelica decursiva, by activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Angelica decursiva (Umbelliferae) is a medicinal plant widely used to treat colds, coughs and fevers in Korea, Japan, and mainland China. The anti-inflammatory activity of nodakenetin, a furano-coumarin compound from A. decursiva, has been reported, although, the antiosteoporotic activity remains unknown. This study sought to investigate the antiosteoporotic activity and precise mechanism of action of nodakenetin in vitro cell culture and in vivo bone remodeling models. The transcriptional activity of nodakenetin on the Wnt signaling pathway was assessed using the TOPflash/FOPflash assay. The effect of nodakenetin on the osteoblast differentiation was measured using Alizarin red staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Western blotting and real-time RT-PCR were used to assess the effect of nodakenetin on the expression of markers related to Wnt/β-catenin pathway and osteoblast differentiation. The in vivo antiosteoporotic activity of nodakenetin was assessed using an ovariectomized (OVX)-induced bone loss mouse model. Nodakenetin activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway through regulation of DKK1, β-catenin and other target proteins of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in HEK293 and MC3T3-E1 cells. Nodakenetin induced the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells as shown by enhanced Alizarin red staining and ALP activity. Induction of osteoblast differentiation was related to upregulated expression of bone formation biomarkers such as bone morphogenic proteins and Runx2. Oral administration of nodakenetin in the OVX mouse model effectively protected the deterioration of bone microstructure in OVX mice. Nodakenetin exhibits antiosteoporotic activity in vitro and in vivo through the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and subsequent induction of osteoblast differentiation.

Potential skincare benefits and self-healing properties of Lignosus rhinocerotis polysaccharides as affected by ultrasound-assisted H2O2/Vc treatment

Natural polysaccharides have been recognized as major bioactive components in skincare and wound care products. In this study, the skincare benefits and self-healing properties of Lignosus rhinocerotis polysaccharides (LRP) and its degraded products (DLRP-1, DLRP-2 and DLRP-3) by ultrasound assisted H2O2/Vc treatment (U-H/V) at different ultrasonic intensity (28.14, 70.35, and 112.56 W/cm2) were investigated. U-H/V altered the internal crystalline structure and microstructure of LRP, and enhanced the thermal stability. Due to the breakage of molecular chains after U-H/V, the moisture absorption of LRP was enhanced but the moisturizing property showed a different degree of reduction. U-H/V significantly improved the antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase and anti-inflammatory activities of LRP. Furthermore, the results of enzyme kinetic studies showed a mixed competitive-noncompetitive inhibition of tyrosinase activity by DLRP-3 and the inhibition constant of DLRP-3 on tyrosinase was 2.97 mg/mL. The apparent viscosity of LRP dispersions showed a first increasing followed by decreasing trend as ultrasonic intensity rose. U-H/V enhanced the viscoelastic properties of LRP gels without destroying their self-healing properties. This findings reveal that U-H/V is beneficial for improving the skincare efficacy of LRP, providing a theoretical foundation for the applicability of LRP in wound dressings.

Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine: Therapeutic Potential in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by persistent airflow obstruction and manifested by symptoms such as chronic cough, sputum, and dyspnea. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been used to treat COPD. This article summarizes potential Chinese herbal medicines (CHM) for COPD treatment through a literature review and collation. The findings highlight 14 kinds of effective CHM for COPD, including Scutellaria radix, Salvia miltiorrhiza radix et rhizoma, Hippophae fructus, Ginseng radix et rhizoma, and Astragali radix. Flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and volatile oil constituents are the main bioactive components for the treatment of COPD. They mainly inhibit the tumor necrosis factor alpha/nuclear factor kappa B (TNF-α/NF-κB) signaling pathway by reducing the production and release of inflammatory factors such as interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), TNF-α, and NF-κB, thereby reducing inflammation in lungs of rats with COPD and protect the lung tissues. Some active ingredients can inhibit toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt), Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT), and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways to express anti-inflammatory activity. This work establishes a foundation for using CHM in COPD treatment and offers new insights and approaches for developing novel anti-COPD drugs.

Anti-inflammatory mechanism of Houttuynia cordata polysaccharides against ulcerative colitis based on multi-omics conjoint analysis

The Houttuynia cordata polysaccharide (HCP) was extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine, Houttuynia cordata, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has an acidic heteropolysaccharide with a molecular weight of approximately 13.38 kDa, consisting of 7 monosaccharides such as galactose, galacturonic acid, and glucose. Mouse ulcerative colitis (UC) model experiments demonstrated its effective anti-inflammatory activity at concentrations of 100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg respectively. The objective of this study was to investigate the mechanism of action underlying the therapeutic effects of HCP in UC through omics analysis method. A total of 724 different metabolites and 246 differential lipids were identified. Through metabolomic analysis, six metabolic pathways including the linoleic acid metabolic pathway, caffeine metabolic pathway, mannose and fructose metabolic pathways, methyl histidine metabolic pathway and fatty acid biosynthesis, which were significantly associated with colon-related diseases. Subsequently, lipidomics analysis revealed that the metabolic pathways of α-linolenic and linoleic acid, fatty acid biosynthesis, and glycerolipid metabolism exhibited significant associations with serum lipid metabolism. These findings suggested that HCP had potential therapeutic effects in treating UC.

Macrocyclic anti-inflammatory diterpenes from the South China Sea soft coral Sinularia erecta and their isolation by combined column chromatography

Eleven new macrocyclic casbane-type diterpenes, namely sinueracasbanones E–O (1–11), have been isolated from the South China Sea soft coral Sinularia erecta using combined column chromatography. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data analysis, the modified Mosher's method, X-ray diffraction analysis and quantum mechanical calculation methods. In bioassay, compounds 2, 5, 10 and 11 displayed interesting anti-inflammatory activities by the inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α protein release with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 15.6, 7.1, 13.7 and 6.6 µM, respectively.

Fructo-oligosaccharides and polyfructans derived from Ophiopogon japonicus ameliorate experimental colitis by regulating the gut microbiota

Ophiopogon japonicus (O. japonicus) is a traditional medicinal herb and is also used as a functional food, where carbohydrates are the key component. We aimed to investigate the structure and activity of O. japonicus polysaccharides (OJP) and oligosaccharides (OJO). OJP was mainly composed of fructose with a molecular weight of 4707 Da, while OJO was mainly composed of fructose and glucose with a molecular weight of 1765 Da. Both OJO and OJP exhibited protective effect against barrier function injury in Caenorhabditis elegans. In colitis mice, OJP and OJO exhibited noticeable relief effects, while OJO significantly promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids compared to OJP. Moreover, OJO had a more pronounced effect in promoting the level of norank_f__Muribaculaceae and norank_f__norank_o__Clostridia_UCG-014. Overall, our findings indicate that molecular weight plays an important role in the anti-inflammatory activities of OJO and OJP and suggest their potential development as therapeutics or functional foods.

Chemical Constituents from the Fruit of Melia azedarach and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Phytochemical investigations of Melia azedarach fruits have led to the isolation of a novel tirucallane triterpenoid (1), four new limonoids (2–5), and four known limonoids (6–9). Their structures were clarified by comprehensive spectroscopic and spectrometric analyses. The anti-inflammatory activities of isolated compounds were assessed in vitro. Compound 2 exhibited the most potent anti-inflammatory effect, with an IC50 value of 22.04 μM. Additionally, compound 2 attenuated LPS-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and reduced the levels of inflammatory mediators IL-6 and TNF-α. A mechanistic study revealed that limonoid 2 suppresses the expression of iNOS and JAK2 and is implicated in the modulation of the NF-κB signaling cascade, which reveals its anti-inflammatory actions.

Differences in Anti-inflammatory Effects of Celecoxib Emulgel Preparations with Variations in Surfactant Concentration between Lecithin and Tween 80

Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which is widely used to treat inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis and primary dysmenorrhea. The absorption of celecoxib in the body is very low when taken orally, so it can be increased by changing the route of administration via transdermal route such as emulgel. This study aims to determine the increase in the anti-inflammatory activity of celecoxib emulgel with varying concentrations of surfactants in formula with Lecithin and formula with Tween 80. Celecoxib emulgel, was made into 3 formulas with variations in the concentration for each formula with Lecithin (FI=3%; FII=5%; FIII=7%) and Tween 80 (FI=5%; FII=10%; FIII=15%). The anti-inflammatory activity test was carried out by inducing edema in the soles of rats' feet using carrageenan. Rats were divided into 5 groups for each formula: 1) negative control, 2) without surfactant, 3) FI, 4) FII, and 5) FIII. The edema volume was measured every 1 hour for 6 hours using a plethysmometer. Results of the anti-inflammatory test showed that the average value of AUC0-360 in the Lecithin group = 57.97-77.17 μg/hour/mL and in the Tween 80 group = 51.45-77.17 μg/hour/mL. %DAI results of formula without surfactant=9.33%, FI (Lecithin=10.01%; Tween 80=24.49%), FII (Lecithin=18.36%; Tween 80=29.05%), and FIII (Lecithin=24.88%; Tween 80=33.33%). Based on these data, it can be concluded that there is an increase in the anti-inflammatory effect of celecoxib emulgel with increasing surfactant concentration in the formula with Lecithin and in the formula with Tween 80. Keywords: Anti-inflammatory; celecoxib; emulgel; surfactant

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Biotransformed Platycodon grandiflorum Root Extracts Containing 3-O-β-D-Glucopyranosyl Platycosides in LPS-Stimulated Alveolar Macrophages, NR8383 Cells.

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe inflammatory condition characterized by excessive immune responses and oxidative stress, leading to significant tissue damage. Given the need for novel therapeutic agents, this study aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory activity and mechanisms of biotransformed Platycodon grandiflorum root extracts (BT-PGR), which were enzymatically processed using rapidsase PL Classic from Aspergillus niger. The goal was to assess the potential of BT-PGR as a natural treatment for ALI. BT-PGR effectively inhibited the production of NO, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α induced by LPS in NR8383 cells. BT-PGR inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, JNK and p65 in LPS-stimulated NR8383 cells. In addition, BT-PGR suppressed LPS-mediated activation of NFκB luciferase activity. BT-PGR increased the levels of HO-1 and the inhibition of HO-1 by ZnPP attenuated BT-PGR-mediated inhibition of NO production. In addition, the inhibition of PI3K by LY294002 blocked the BT-PGR-mediated increase of HO-1 level. BT-PGR increased nuclear Nrf2 level and the knockdown of Nrf2 by siRNA inhibited BT-PGR-mediated increase of HO-1 level. In addition, inhibition of PI3K by LY294002 suppressed the increase of nuclear Nrf2 level. Based on these results, it can be inferred that BT-PGR exhibits anti-inflammatory activity in rat alveolar macrophages, suggesting its potential as a natural candidate for the improvement of ALI.

2024 Update on Position Statement by Experts from the Polish Society of Allergology and the Polish Respiratory Society on the Evaluation of Efficacy and Effectiveness of Single Inhaler Triple Therapies in Asthma Treatment

Medication non-adherence remains a substantial obstacle in asthma care, prompting the exploration of novel therapeutic modalities that prioritize rapid symptom relief, anti-inflammatory activity, and facilitate patients’ compliance. This task is well-served by the following new form of therapy: inhaled triple-combination medications ICS/LABA/LAMA (inhaled glucocorticosteroid/long-acting beta2-agonist/long-acting muscarinic antagonist). The integration of three medications within a singular inhalation device culminates in the reduction of the effective dose of the principal therapeutic agent for asthma management, namely ICS. This consolidation yields a dual benefit of minimizing the likelihood of adverse effects typically linked with ICS while concurrently optimizing bronchodilator efficacy. The accumulated evidence suggests that adding LAMA to a medium- or high-dose ICS/LABA results in a decrease of asthma exacerbations compared to medium- or high-dose ICS/LABA alone, accompanied by sustained enhancements in lung function parameters. In adult patients experiencing suboptimal asthma control despite medium/high-dose ICS/LABA treatment—regardless of adherence to GINA-recommended strategies, such as MART therapy as a first-line approach, or alternative second-line strategies—we propose that the preferred course for intensifying asthma therapy involves the addition of a LAMA, ideally in the form of SITT.

Anti-inflammatory Activity of Crude Extract and Zinc- Oxide Nanoparticles from the Ink of Squid (Uroteuthis duvaucelii )

Objectives: Marine natural materials can be utilized to construct a variety of medications and have produced significant leads for therapeutic development. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of crude extract and zinc-oxide nanoparticles from the ink of squid. Methods : The anti-inflammatory activity of the synthesized zinc-oxide nanoparticles and crude extract of Uroteuthis duvaucelii was determined by using albumin denaturation assay and anti-proteinase activity. Findings : The albumin denaturation assay of the crude ink extract shows a maximum anti-inflammatory activity of 29% at a concentration of 100µl/ml and a minimum activity of 7% at a concentration of 20µl/ml. The zinc-oxide nanoparticles of U. duvaucelii exhibit anti-inflammatory activity of 8% at 20µl/ml, and 37% at a concentration of 100µl/ml. Anti-proteinase activity of the crude extract exhibits 25% of inhibition at a concentration of 100µl/ml and lowest activity of 2% at a concentration of 20µl/ml. Zinc-oxide nanoparticles of Uroteuthis duvaucelii exhibit maximum inhibition of 28% at 100µl/ml and minimum activity of 5% at a concentration of 20µl/ml. Comparing the two extracts the zinc-oxide of U. duvaucelii shows better albumin denaturation and anti-proteinase action than the crude ink extract. So, this can be used as a source of anti-inflammatory agents for drug development. Novelty : Research suggests that natural products may be a source of anti-inflammatory medications with higher activity and fewer side effects. Therefore, the synthesized nanoparticles from the ink of Uroteuthis duvaucelii can be used as an anti-inflammatory drug. Keywords: Anti-inflammatory activity; Zinc-oxide nanoparticles; Uroteuthis duvaucelii; Anti proteinase; Crude ink

Night-Flowering Jasmine: A Review of Its Morphology and Pharmacological Activity

Known by many as Parijat or Night flowering Jasmine, Nyctanthes arbortristis is a mesmerising plants that are native to the subcontinent of India. This review paper provides an extensive summary of the medical, botanical, and Nyctanthes arbortristis's decorative attributes based on the body of current literature. The plant qualities of the plant, such as its distribution, growth patterns, and morphology are outlined. Nyctanthes's therapeutic qualities arbortristis, which have been thoroughly studied observed in a number of studies, are investigated. These characteristics include analgesic, a antiinflammatory, and hepatoprotective, antiviral, antioxidant, and antitumor actions. Additionally, the decorative application of Nyctanthes The discussion of an rbortristis emphasises its beauty attractiveness and potential for gardening and landscaping objectives. The purpose of this review paper is to offer a thorough comprehension of the diff erent features that make Nyctanthes arbortristis function as a useful.

FITOCOSMÉTICOS: BENEFÍCIOS DE COSMÉTICOS DE ORIGEM NATURAL NA ESTÉTICA

The introduction of this article presents the current context of the cosmetic market, highlighting the growing demand for products that are both effective and sustainable. The aim of this literature review is to compile and critically analyze existing scientific studies on the pharmacological, therapeutic, and chemical properties of three specific medicinal plants. The review seeks to identify the main applications of these plants, highlight the bioactive compounds present in each, and discuss advances related to their potential use, emphasizing the key properties of each plant. The cosmetic benefits were categorized into properties such as hydration, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions. The results indicated that phytocosmetics show similar efficacy to synthetic cosmetics in terms of skin hydration and treatment, with the added advantage of being less aggressive and causing fewer allergic reactions. Furthermore, phytocosmetics demonstrated a significantly lower environmental impact, particularly in terms of biodegradability and the absence of toxic substances. The conclusion emphasizes that, although both types of cosmetics are effective, the growing trend towards the use of phytocosmetics is justified by their health and sustainability benefits.

Plantago boissieri : Phytochemical Assessment, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatoryand Wound Healing Potential.

Plantago is a large genus under family Plantaginaceae. Plantago species were noted for potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities. The current research investigated the potential bioactivities as the metabolic content of Plantagoboisserei extract. Results highlighted the rich content of phenolics (450.93 ± 7.4 mg GAE/g extract) and flavonoids (144.2 ± 3.6 mg RE/g extract). HPLC analysis enabled the detection of 17 phenolic constituents among which ellagic acid was found in highest concentration followed by rutin. P. boisserei exhibited a potent antioxidant activity evidenced by the IC50 values in ABTS and H2O2 assays (10.95 and 10.87 µg/mL, respectively) as well as in TAC assay (67.94 mg AAE/g). The anti-microbial activities revealed a moderate activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus vulgaris. In vitro anti-inflammatory potential indicated a characteristic inhibition against COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes with IC50 62.8 and 14.23 µg/mL, respectively, compared to ibuprofen (IC50 8.07 and 6.58, respectively). Additionally, P. boisserei extract achieved a potent wound healing activity using in vivo rat model, this might be attributed to its high content of flavonoids together with other polyphenolic compounds that have a great free radical scavenging potential. P. boisserei is a promising candidate for more extensive phytochemical and biological exploration.

Genotoxic and Cytotoxic Activities of Cornhusk Extract of Zea mays and Leaf Extract of Sacharum officinarum

Zea mays husk and Saccharum officinarum have been used for years in ethnomedicine for their antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antidiabetic, and antiphlogistic activities. The cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of Zea mays husk and Saccharum officinarum leaf extracts on the root meristem cells of Allium cepa were investigated. Onion bulbs were exposed to 2.5 mg/ml, 5mg/ml, and 10 mg/ml concentrations of the extracts for macroscopic and microscopic analysis. Tap water was used as a negative control and Methotrexate (0.1 mg/ml) was used as a positive control. There was statistically significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of root growth depending on concentration by the extracts when compared with the negative control group. All the tested extracts were observed to have cytotoxic effects on cell division in A. cepa. The extract induced chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei (MNC) formations in A. cepa root tip cells were significant (p<0.05) when compared with the control group. The extracts treatment further induced cell death, ghost cells, cells membrane damage, and binucleated cells. The Zea mays husk extract was found to exhibit higher cytotoxic and genotoxic potential than Saccharum officinarum leaf extract. These results suggest that Zea mays husk and Saccharum officinarum leaf extracts possess cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on A. cepa.