Aqueous Stem Bark Extract Research Articles

Aphrodisiac effect of aqueous stem bark extract of<i>Ficus sycomorus </i>on female wistar rats

In the present study, the effect of aqueous stem bark extract of Ficus sycomorus was evaluated on female sex hormones and sexual behavior in female Wistar rats. Adult female rats having regular estrous cycle confirmed by daily cytology of the vaginal smear analysis were used. Rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=10): Group I served as a control; while group II, and III received 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg of the extracts respectively. The results revealed significant increase (p<0.5) in serum concentration of the estradiol in group II and a significant decrease (p<0.5) in serum concentration of estradiol in group III in comparison with the control. There was also significant decrease (p<0.5) in serum level of progesterone in group II and no significant effect in group III in comparison with the control. The result also indicated no significant effect (p>0.5) of the extract on female sexual behavior, which may suggest no scientific basis for the use of the extract as an aphrodisiac in females.Keywords: Ficus sycomorus, Aphrodisiac, Estradiol, Progesterone, Lordosis quotient

BIOGENIC SYNTHESIS OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES USING MANILKARA HEXANDRA (ROXB.) DUBARD STEM BARK EXTRACT AND IT’S PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND PHARMACEUTICAL EVALUATION

Objective: The present study was to synthesize nanoparticles using Manilkara hexandra stem bark extract its characterization and evaluating it by an antimicrobial and antioxidant assay.
 Methods: Manilkara hexandra stem bark silver nanoparticles (MHSB-AgNPs) was done by mixing silver nitrate (1 mmol) and aqueous stem bark extract and it was analyzed by UV-Visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta potential, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDAX), Thermogravimetry/Differential Thermal Analysis (TG/DTA) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The antibacterial assay was done by a well diffusion method and also examined for antifungal assay was done by disk diffusion method and antioxidant potential Diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH method)
 Results: Manilkara hexandra stem bark silver nanoparticles (MHSB-AgNPs) is characterized by various techniques such as UV-visible absorption spectrum ranges from 430 nm to 440 nm indicate silver nanoparticles. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy consists of biomolecules acts as capping agent to form silver nanoparticles. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy shows particle size ranges from 15 nm to 50 nm. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy shows the presence of Silver. X-ray Diffraction corresponds to face-centered lattice planes (111), (200), (220) and (311). Dynamic Light Scattering show the range of 68 nm and Zeta potential show the negative value of-17 nm which has high stability. Silver nanoparticles is also examined by Thermogravimetry/Differential Thermal Analysis (TG/DTA) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) this project the thermal stability of the nanoparticles. The aqueous stem bark is also examined by UV-visible absorption spectrum, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS). In GCMS 20 compounds were identified. Silver nanoparticles show high zone of inhibition in antimicrobial assays and act as a good antioxidant agent.
 Conclusion: It is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and it’s easy to synthesis and it shows good result in an antimicrobial and antioxidant assay can be applied in a pharmaceutical application.

UPLC-MS-ESI-QTOF characterization and evaluation of the antibacterial and modulatory antibiotic activity of Ziziphus joazeiro Mart. aqueous extracts

Plant extracts are defined as complex heterogeneous mixtures composed of diverse active ingredient categories which characterize their bioactivities. Ziziphus joazeiro Mart., belonging to the Rhamnaceae family, is an endemic caatinga species with a wide economic potential and application in medicine. In the search for new antibacterial drugs, due to the manifestation and development of bacterial antibiotic resistance mechanisms, medicinal plants, with their broad pharmacological aspects, have led to the development of several phytomedicines. With this in mind, the objective of the present study was to identify the chemical composition of the Ziziphus joazeiro leaf and stem bark aqueous extracts through the UPLC–QTOF-MS/MS method, as well as to verify their antibacterial and modulatory action. Cold extract maceration was used to prepare the Z. joazeiro leaf and stem bark aqueous extracts (AEL and AEB). The broth microdilution method was used for the antibacterial and modulatory activity evaluations. This study is the first to report on the Ziziphus joazeiro extract analyzes by ultra-performance liquid chromatography. The UPLC-MS-ESI-QTOF analysis revealed compounds already present in the Ziziphus genus. The extracts did not present antibacterial activity, however, they presented significant modulatory activity when combined with antibiotics. The results highlight the need for further detailed compound identification analysis and toxicity evaluation of these extracts.

A Preliminary Oral Toxicity Studies on Pausinystalia Yohimbe

The oral toxicity profile of the crude aqueous stem bark extract of <em>Pausinystalia yohimbe</em> was studied in adult albino rats. The Up and Down method (AOT425statPgm version 1.0) for acute oral toxicity was carried out using a starting dose of 175 mg/kg body weight via the oral route. For the sub chronic study, 40 male albino rats weighing between 150-200 g, were grouped into three treatment groups and a control group with 10 rats in each group. A repeat dose oral toxicity study was conducted by daily oral dosing of 600 mg/kg body weight, 150 mg/kg body weight of extract dissolved in 1ml of 0.9% saline to groups 1 and 2, respectively and 30% powdered stem bark mixed with 70% rat chow (w/w) to group 3 and 1ml of 0.9% saline was administered to rats in the control group for 28 days. On day 29, blood samples for bioassay were collected by cardiac puncture under diethyl ether anesthesia. The LD50 estimate of the extract was calculated to be greater than 2000mg/kg body weight/oral route. The extract did not cause any significant difference in the body weight of the rats. Platelet count and White Blood Cell count (WBC) were significantly elevated across the treatment groups p<0.05. Total bilirubin was significantly higher p<0.05 in the 600 and 150mg treatment groups, while conjugated bilirubin was significantly higher in the 600 mg treatment group. Total protein was significantly lower p<0.05 in the 600mg treatment group. Aspartate Transaminase was significantly higher in all the treatment groups, while Alkaline phosphatase was significantly higher in the 600 and 150mg treatment groups, p<0.05, respectively. Alanine transaminase was significantly higher in 600 mg treatment group. Na+ was elevated significantly, p<0.05. These results suggest incipient toxicity of the extract and indicate need for morphometric toxicity study.

Chemical composition, antiparasitic and cytotoxic activities of aqueous extracts of Ziziphus joazeiro Mart.

Objective: To compare the in vitro antiparasitic activity of aqueous extracts from Ziziphus joazeiro leaves and stem bark against Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania braziliensis, and Leishmania infantum, as well as to evaluate its cytotoxicity in mammalian cells, in addition to identifying the chemical composition of the extracts. Methods: Ziziphus joazeiro leaf and stem bark aqueous extracts were prepared by cold extraction maceration and subjected to ultra-efficient liquid chromatography coupled to a quadrupole/time of flight system. The susceptibility assays used Trypanosoma cruzi CL-B5 strains and promastigote forms of Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania infantum for antiparasitic activity of the extracts. Moreover, mammalian fibroblasts NCTC clone 929 were used for cytotoxicity analysis. Results: Terpenoid compounds, flavonoids and phenolic acid were identified in extracts. The stem bark aqueous extracts presented more significant results in terms of antiparasitic activity compared with the leaf aqueous extracts, especially against Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania infantum promastigote forms with an IC50 Conclusions: These preliminary results may contribute to the formulation of new therapeutic agents against this group of neglected diseases, so further investigations are required to delineate the mechanisms of action mainly of the aqueous extract of stem bark of Ziziphus joazeiro.

Oral LD50 of total saponins and tannins isolated from Dialium guineense stem bark

Background and Objective: The safety of bioactive compounds isolated from plant extracts has become a global concern. The aim of this study was to determine the oral LD50 of total saponins and tannins isolated from Dialium guineense stem bark using Sprague Dawley rats. Materials and Methods: Male Sprague Dawley rats (n=13) weighing 150-180 g (mean weight=165 ± 15 g) were used for this study. The aqueous, ethanol and methanol extracts of the plant stem bark were obtained using cold maceration method. The lorke method was used to determine oral LD50 of isolated total saponins and tannins of D. guineense. Signs of toxicity and possible death of rats were also monitored for twenty-four (24) h. Results: The major signs of toxicity observed within 24 h were: difficulty in breathing, loss of appetite and general weakness. No deaths were recorded in both phases and all the animals in each phytochemical group survived. The oral LD50 of total saponins and tannins of D. guineense were greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight (bwt). Conclusion: The findings of this study have shown that saponins and tannins of D. guineense stem bark are not toxic at doses not exceeding 5000 mg/kg bwt.

Toxicological studies and bioactivity-guided identification of antimicrobially active compounds from crude aqueous stem bark extract of Boswellia dalzielii.

Objective:The main objective of this study is to isolate, identify, and quantify the active antimicrobial compounds present in the crude aqueous stem bark extract of B. dalzielii using some common pathogenic microorganisms as well as toxicological profile.Material and Methods:Crude aqueous stem bark extract of Boswellia dalzielii (CASEB) was partitioned by preparative thin layer chromatography (PTLC) using chloroform–methanol–water, 8:2:1 (v/v). The resulting bands were extracted using chloroform–methanol (50:50). The extract of each band was evaluated for antimicrobial activity on Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella typhi, and Candida albicans by disc diffusion. Compounds in the most antimicrobially bioactive fraction (MAAF) were identified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FT-IR), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Toxicological profile of the CASEB was evaluated by studying its effect in albino Wister rats.Results:PTLC produced five bands/fractions of which the MAAF was identified as RF2-fraction being active against all the isolates except E. coli and K. pneumoniae. HPLC of the MAAF revealed seven components; FT-IR revealed 17 functional groups; GC-MS revealed five compounds of which 93.18% are Oleic acid (44.88%), Squalene (34.16%), and n-Hexadecanoic acid (14.14%). The acute toxicity showed LD50 > 3,000 mg/kg. Sub-chronic toxicity showed that higher doses of the CASEB caused significant changes in liver function indices and a fatty change with lymphocytic infiltration (sign of acute hepatitis) in the liver tissues, but none of these changes were observed in the kidneys.Conclusion:The antimicrobially active compounds in CASEB were Oleic acid, Squalene, and n-Hexadecanoic acid. These can be further purified and used as precursors of new antimicrobial agents for treating infections especially those due to fungi and Pseudomonas spp. that are known to resist wide array of antimicrobial agents. The LD50 of CASEB is >3,000 mg/kg in rats. However, long-term consumption of CASEB is associated with significant liver damage.

Effects of Pseudocedrela kotschyi Stem Bark on Blood Chemistry and Histology of Some Organs in Rats

Background: Pseudocedrela kotschyi is a plant commonly found in Africa and it is used in traditional medicine in the treatment of different diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the acute and sub-chronic toxicity of the stem bark of the plant in albino rats. Method: In acute test, the limit test dose of 1,500mg/kg was orally administered to albino rats and then observed individual for 72 hours post dosing and once every day for 14 days, and the LD50 was found to be 1,225mg/kg body weight. The sub-chronic toxicity study was done using standard protocol in graded doses of 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg, and 400mg/kg of the plant extract for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, chloroform was used to painlessly salvage the rats and was examined both grossly and histopathologically. Result: Administration of extracts for the experimental period did not record any death; however, loss of appetite and reduced activity were observed in rats dosed with 400mg/kg. Mild histological lesions were also observed in the liver, kidney and heart respectively. Conclusion: from the above result, it is concluded the aqueous stem bark extract of P. kotschyi is relatively safe. The histopathological changes observed in the organs investigated suggest that the extract should be used with caution when administered for prolonged periods.

Biochemical Alterations in the Liver and Kidney of Rats Following Sub-acute Administration of Aqueous Extract of Stem-bark of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew Tree)

Background: The use of herbal medicines for treating ailments is rampant in recent years, and the toxicity implications of various plant preparations are sparingly reported. We investigated the potential effect of daily administration of aqueous extract of stem-bark of cashew tree on the liver and kidney status of rats.&#x0D; Methods: Rats were divided into 4 groups as follows: control rats received 1 mL of distilled water, G1 received 100 mg/kg, G2 received 200 mg/kg, while G3 received 400 mg/kg body weight of the extract for 28 consecutive days. The tissue homogenate supernatants were analysed for liver enzymes-alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and kidney function indices- urea and creatinine.&#x0D; Results: In comparison to control, total protein increased significantly (P&lt; 0.05) at 400 mg/kg extract, whereas albumin level significantly decreased (P&lt;0.05) in rats treated with extract. .Activities of AST, ALP and GGT increased markedly (P&lt; 0.05) at 400 mg/kg, whereas a significant decrease was observed in bilirubin level when compared with the control. Levels of urea and creatinine in kidney tissue were significantly higher in extract-treated rats compared to control.&#x0D; Conclusion: The findings suggest that the extract dose at 400 mg/kg may cause alterations with toxic implications in the liver and kidney of rats.

Evaluation of mutagenic and antimutagenic potential of stem bark aqueous extracts of eight trees by the bacterial reverse mutation assay

Stem bark aqueous extracts of eight woody plants Brachychiton populneus, Ceiba pentandra, Bombax malabaricum, Chorisia speciosa, Albizia lebbeck, Bauhinia variegata, Kigelia africana and Pinus halepensis were tested for their mutagenic and antimutagenic potential in the Ames test with Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100. The aqueous extracts were neither toxic nor mutagenic in S. typhimurium tester strains. All of the tested extracts showed detectable antimutagenic effect towards the direct acting mutagens 2-nitrofluorene (2-NF) in TA98 as well as sodium azide in TA100. The extract from Kigelia africana was the most effective in reducing the mutagenicity caused by the direct mutagen 2-NF in the TA98 with 85.42% inhibition rate. A. lebbeck stem bark extract demonstrated the highest antimutagenic activity reducing the base substitution mutations rate for strain TA100 by 94.66% in pre-incubation assay. The results obtained showed that the stem bark aqueous extracts tested can protect cells against induced gene mutations.

Acute and Subacute Toxicity Evaluation of the Stem Bark Aqueous Extract of Harungana Madagascariensis in Rodents

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the safety of a stem bark aqueous extract of Harunganamadagascariensis Lam. (Hypericaceae) by determining its potential toxicity after acute and subacute administration in rodents. Acute toxicity tests were carried out in mice and the behavior, death and median lethal dose (LD50) were estimated. Subacute toxicity (28 days) studies were conducted in rats with oral daily doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg. Parameters observed at the end of the subacute tests included changes in body and vital organ weights, mortality, hematological, biochemical, hepatic and kidney effects. Harunganamadagascariensisextract did not produce any visible toxicity or mortality with oral doses up to 2000 mg/kg within 14 days of single treatment, leading to the conclusion that the LD50 is greater than 2000 mg/kg. In the subacute toxicity tests, neither mortality nor visible signs of lethality was seen in rats. No significant change in the weight of the kidney, liver, heart, lungs spleen, pancreas and testicles was observed. Alanine transaminase (ALT) increased significantly in males at 400 and 600 mg/kg, whereas Aspartate transaminase (AST) decreased at 600 mg/kg in female rats. HDL Cholesterol was reduced at 600 mg/kg in female rats. There was a significant increase in urea concentration in female rats at 400 mg/kg. A significant decrease, both in platelet volume distribution (PVD) at 400 mg/kg in male rats and in red cell volume distribution (RDW) at 200 mg/kg were recorded in female rats respectively, but with no changes in other hematologic parameters. Histological study shows normal structure of liver, kidneys and heart of control and treated rats. Results indicate that oral doses of aqueous stem bark of Harunganamadagascariensis are relatively safe in rats; however, assessment of hepatobiliary function should be done during chronic use in humans.

Effects of &lt;i&gt;Detarium senegalense&lt;/i&gt; JF Gmelin aqueous stem bark extract on castor oil induced diarrhoea in albino rats

Detarium senegalense JF Gmelin stem bark aqueous extract was investigated for its phytochemical contents as well as its anti-diarrhoea effects. The aqueous extract which is normally used in folkloric medicine was subjected to phytochemical screening. Graded doses of the extract (100, 200 and 400 mg per kg) were administered orally to three groups of rats (n = 5) before induction of diarrhoea with castor oil. Another two groups of animals were treated with normal saline (control) and diphenoxylate, a conventional anti-diarrhoea drug respectively. In two separate experiments, gastro-intestinal transits of charcoal meal and gastro-intestinal enteropooling with the same graded doses of the aqueous extracts were used for comparison. The extract produced a significant inhibition of the castor oil induced diarrhoea in the animals. The gastro-intestinal transit of charcoal meal was also reduced by the various doses used in this study. However, the intestinal fluid accumulation was only slightly reduced especially by 400 mg/kg dose of the extract. The aqueous extract alone dose dependently reduced the contractile amplitude of the jejunal tissue. The aqueous extract also decreased the contractile amplitude of isolated jejunal segment exposed to 0.2 ml of 10 μg/ml of acetylcholine. Phytochemical analysis of the stem bark extract revealed the presence of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, terpenes and steroids, saponins and glycosides. The findings suggest that, the aqueous stem bark extract of D. senegalense possesses antidiarrhoeal effect, which could be related to inhibition of gastro-intestinal motility and secretion.Keywords: Diarrhoea, Detarium senegalense, Diphenoxylate, Enteropooling, intestinal transit

Antifungal effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of neem leaves, stem bark and seeds on fungal rot diseases of yam and cocoyam

BackgroundFungal rot diseases of white yam (Discorea rotundata) tubers and cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) are the major post-harvest challenges in the availability of these root tubers. The use of biological extract of plants will prevent post-harvest losses without any negative health challenge.MethodsMicrowave-assisted method of extraction was used for both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of neem samples. Fungal-rotted yam and fungal-rotted cocoyam samples were collected, and fungi from them were cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA). The same medium was used for subculturing until pure fungal isolates were obtained. Pathogenicity tests were carried out on the yam and cocoyam tubers by inoculating with isolated fungi. The neem extracts were integrated into the PDA and their antifungal effects examined.Results and discussionFrom the yam, Aspergillus ochareus, Sclerotium rolfsii and Lasidiodiplodia theobromae were isolated, while Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae and Rhizopus stolonifer were isolated from cocoyam samples. After 14 days of inoculation, isolated fungi were shown to be highly pathogenic except R. stolonifer and A. ochareus, which showed moderate pathogenicity. All the plant extracts showed antifungal activities at varied percentage mean zones of inhibition. The inhibition against fungal growth from the isolates of the rotted cocoyam gave mean inhibition between 39.53 ± 8.39% and 96.76 ± 1.60%. Except for ethanolic stem bark extract which gave 39.53 ± 8.39% limited zone of inhibition against A. niger growth, the rest of the extract exhibited good zones of inhibition against cocoyam-isolated fungi ranging between 72.87 ± 3.55 and 96.79 ± 1.60%. On fungal isolates from yam, the mean percentage zones of inhibition of all extracts of the neem plant parts showed more effectiveness than the positive control (Ketoconazole) against L. theobromae growth. Aqueous stem bark extract with 93.80 ± 1.78% zone of inhibition showed comparable effectiveness to the control (100% inhibition) against A. ochareus growth, while against S. rolfii growth, there was good inhibition by all the extracts though not to the extent as that of the control.ConclusionThe fungitoxic potential of these plant extracts on rot-inducing fungi of stored yam and cocoyam suggests that the above extracts used in this study can be put to use by farmers as alternative to commercial/synthetic fungicides.

Phytochemical Composition and Effect of Nauclea Latifolia Aqueous Extracts on Blood Glucose Levels of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Wistar Albino Rats

Researches targeted at understanding and controlling abnormally high level of blood glucose in Diabetes mellitus are ongoing. In spite of many available anti-diabetic drugs in the market, safer and cheaper remedies from plant material are being sought for due to the unwanted side effects of these drugs. In this research work, we looked at the beneficial blood glucose lowering effect of the plant Nauclea latifolia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic albino Wistar rats. The extracts were first screened for the presence of phytochemicals using standard methods and the result showed the presence of saponins, tannins, reducing sugar, phlobatannins, anthraquinone, flavonoids, steroids and alkaloids. The study design involved 30 male albino Wistar rats which were divided into 6 groups. Groups 1 and 2 represent the Normal Control and Diabetic Control respectively. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were Diabetic rats treated orally with 500mg/kg body weight of aqueous extracts of Stem-bark, Leaves and Root-bark respectively while Group 6 were Diabetic rats treated with 5mg/kg body weight of Glibenclamide. The extracts and Glibenclamide were administered for 28 days. Blood glucose levels were determined on days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 by tail tipping method using Glucometer (Accu-Chek, Manheim, Germany). The extracts and Glibenclamide reduced significantly (p&lt;0.05) the Fasting Blood Glucose levels in the diabetic treated rats compared with the Diabetic Control. Amongst the extracts the root-bark is more efficacious, decreasing the glucose level by 49.80% while the stem-bark and leaves brought about reduction by 28.76% and 12.15% respectively. The findings imply that the extracts of this plant have blood glucose lowering ability and should be further evaluated for its beneficial effect in Diabetes mellitus management.

In vitro activities of Ceiba speciosa (A.St.-Hil) Ravenna aqueous stem bark extract

Several species of the genus Ceiba (Malvaceae) are ethnopharmacologically used. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the in vitro beneficial properties of the aqueous stem bark extract of Ceiba speciosa. The extract presented a great amount of phenolic compounds (117.4 ± 6.2 mg GAE/g). The antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH (IC50 = 42.87 μg/mL), ORAC (2351.17 μmol TE/g) and FRAP (235.94 μM FeSO4/g) methods. In addition, the extract reduced MCF-7 cell viability as assessed by MTT. However, it prevented mitochondrial membrane depolarization and reduced caspase-9 activity induced by hydrogen peroxide. In conclusion, these findings indicate the extract is an excellent source of natural antioxidants and is able to protect ROS-induced cell death. Therefore, C. speciosa extract may possess beneficial properties for application in pharmaceutical industry as an antioxidant. However, further studies to better elucidate its mechanisms and to isolate its active compounds are required.

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties of aqueous and methanolic stem bark extracts from Nauclea pobeguinii (Rubiacee) in rats.

Background Nauclea pobeguinii is a plant species found in the centre region of Cameroon. The stem bark of this plant is traditionally used to ease pain and cure inflammation. Method This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of doses 150 and 300 mg/kg of the aqueous and methanolic stem bark extracts from Nauclea pobeguinii on acute pain, acute and chronic inflammation induced by formalin and arthritis induced by zymosan A in rats. Oxidative stress parameters such as catalase, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide were measured in rats subjected to chronic inflammation. The standard used was diclofenac at 5 mg/kg. Results Aqueous extract as well as methanolic extract of Nauclea pobeguinii led to a significant reduction in the second phase of formalin induced pain with 54.22 and 48.02% of inhibition percentage, respectively. The formalin-induced inflammatory oedema was reduced by both extracts, and this effect remains significant until the tenth day of treatment. Equally, extracts significantly increased the catalase activity and inhibited the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum, brain and spinal cord and NO reduction only in serum. Both extracts significantly reduced the articular oedema induced by zymosan A for 6 h and for 5 days. Furthermore, the histological study of the articulations shows a non-altered synovial membrane and a small cartilage in all treated animals versus negative control group. Conclusions From these results, it can be concluded that pain, inflammation and arthritic healing activities of both stem bark extracts were expressed in rats and could conciliate the use of this vegetable by traditional African healers.

In vitro effects of aqueous extract from Maytenus senegalensis (Lam.) Exell stem bark on egg hatching, larval migration and adult worms of Haemonchus contortus

BackgroundMaytenus senegalensis is a common shrub which is scattered in tropical Africa. Different parts of this plant have been reported to be useful in traditional medicine against gastrointestinal disorders and intestinal worms. This study evaluated the anthelmintic activity of the aqueous stem bark extract of M. senegalensis using egg hatch assay (EHA), larval migration inhibition assay (LMIA) and adult worms’ motility inhibition assay (AMIA).ResultsOn EHA, the extract concentrations tested resulted in a significant (p < 0.01) inhibition of egg hatching in concentration-dependent manner and ranged between 31.86% at 75 μg.mL− 1 to 54.92% at 2400 μg.mL− 1 after a 48 h post-exposure with eggs. For the LMI assays, the aqueous extract of M. senegalensis showed a significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of larval migration in a concentration-dependent manner. The highest concentration used (2400 μg.mL− 1) showed a 37.77% inhibition. The use of polyvinyl polypyrrolidone (PVPP) indicated that tannins and flavonoids were partly involved in the effect since the larval migration was inhibited by 15.5%, but other biochemical compounds were also implicated. On AMIA, M. senegalensis was associated with a reduced worm motility after a 24 h post exposure compared to phosphate buffered saline as control (p < 0.05). By this time 66.66% of the worms’ were found immotile or dead in the wells containing plant extract at 2400 μg.mL− 1. The Phytochemical analysis of aqueous extract of M. senegalensis by HPLC-ESI-MSn detected the presence of proanthocyanidins (20%) and flavonoids (> 50%).ConclusionsThese in vitro results suggest the presence of some anthelmintic properties in M. senegalensis extract, which is traditionally used by small farmers in west and central Africa. These effects may be due to the flavonoids and proanthocyanidins present in the extract and need to be studied under in vivo conditions.

Antimalarial and Reno-protective Potentials of Combined Stem Bark Extracts of Khaya grandifoliola and Enantia chlorantha in Plasmodium Infected Mice

Background: Malaria is a worldwide threat, which affects millions of people. Although several antimalarial has been reported, they are either not effective or toxic. This study evaluated the antimalarial efficacy and safety of stem bark aqueous extracts of Khaya grandifoliola (KG) and Enantia chlorantha (EC) in Plasmodium berghie (NK65S) infected Swiss mice. Methods: Forty-two animals were grouped into six groups. Group A (control) comprised uninfected animals given sterile placebo. Group B was infected but untreated. Groups C, D, E, and F were infected and treated with 50 mg/kg artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), 400 mg/kg body weight of KG, EC, and the combined extracts (200 mg/ml body weight each) respectively. Results: Alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, phenolics, flavonoids, tannin and saponins were all present in the two extracts. The percentage parasitemia in the treated groups C, D, E, and F was significantly (P˂0.05) reduced from 44%, 24%, 35%, and 31% to 17%, 8%, 9% and 8% respectively. The level of creatinine C (1.33±0.08 g/d), D (2.07±0.15 g/d), E (2.17±0.24 g/d) and F (1.20±0.0.12 g/d) increased significantly (P˂0.05) compared to group A (0.73±0.08 g/d). There was no significant difference in the urea level, potassium and sodium concentrations among all the groups. Conclusion: The efficacy and renal safety of oral administration of aqueous stem bark extract of KG and EC were confirmed. Therefore, the extracts could be used as alternatives to standard drugs in the management of malaria.

Antiproliferative effect of aqueous bark extract of Oroxylum indicum L. on Vigna radiata L. (Green gram) seedlings

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of aqueous bark extract of Oroxylum indicum L. on Vigna radiata L. (Green gram) seedlings. For different concentrations of plant extract (250, 500, 1000 and 2500 µg/mL) were treated in a 24 well microplate containing the Vigna radiata L. seeds (n=30) for 24, 48 and 72 hours. Colchicine (50 µg/mL) was used as standard drug. Seed germination and seedlings growth were measured. Mitotic index was calculated for the proliferation of cells. The treatment with plant extracts significantly inhibits the germination of seeds, roots and shoots growth, and reduced the mitotic index in meristem ells of Vigna radiata L. at dose and time dependent manner. Qualitative phytochemical screenings of the aqueous stem bark extract of Oroxylum indicum L. revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, phytosterols, phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Saponins were found to be in high concentration in the extract.

MYOCARDIAL POTENCY OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF HARUNGANA MADAGASCARIENSIS STEM BARK AGAINST ISOPROTERENOL-INDUCED MYOCARDIAL DAMAGE IN RATS

Objectives: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of Harungana madagascariensis on electrocardiographical, biochemical and histopathological changes in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction in rats. Methods: Male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided and treated with the aqueous extract of Harungana madagascariensis stem bark (AEHM, 200 and 400 mg/kg per os), or normal saline or vitamin E for 7 days with concomitant administration of ISO (85 mg/kg, subcutaneously) on 8th and 9th days, at 24 h interval. Results: The ISO injections to the rats caused cardiac dysfunction evidenced by a marked (P<0.01) elevation in ST-segment, a reduction in R wave amplitude (P<0.01), decrease in endogenous antioxidant reduced glutathione (GSH), increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), a lipid peroxidation marker, increase of cardiac marker enzymes lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT). All these changes in cardiac function as well as GSH, MDA and the enzymes (LDH, AST and ALT) were ameliorated when the rats were pretreated with AEHM. Additionally, the protective effects were strengthened by improved histopathological changes, which specify the protection of cardiomyocytes from the deleterious effects of ISO. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the cardioprotective effect of Harungana madagascariensis on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats. The mechanism might be associated with the enhancement of antioxidant defense, reduction of lipid peroxydation and it is confirmed by amending electrocardiographic pattern, improvement of cardiac markers and less histopathological damages following ISO-induced myocardial infarction. It could provide experimental evidence to support the use of Harungana madagascariensis used in traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular disorders. Peer Review History: Received 9 February 2018; Revised 22 February; Accepted 28 February, Available online 15 March 2018 UJPR follows the most transparent and toughest ‘Advanced OPEN peer review’ system. The identity of the authors and, reviewers will be known to each other. This transparent process will help to eradicate any possible malicious/purposeful interference by any person (publishing staff, reviewer, editor, author, etc) during peer review. As a result of this unique system, all reviewers will get their due recognition and respect, once their names are published in the papers. We expect that, by publishing peer review reports with published papers, will be helpful to many authors for drafting their article according to the specifications. Auhors will remove any error of their article and they will improve their article(s) according to the previous reports displayed with published article(s). The main purpose of it is ‘to improve the quality of a candidate manuscript’. Our reviewers check the ‘strength and weakness of a manuscript honestly’. There will increase in the perfection, and transparency. Received file: Comments of reviewer(s): Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 8.0/10 Reviewer(s) detail: Dr. Mohamed Said Fathy Al-Refaey, University of Sadat City, Menofia, Egypt, Mohamed.said@fop.usc.edu.eg Dr. Mohamed Salama, Modern University for Technology & Information, Egypt, salama47@yahoo.com Similar Articles: ANTIHYPERGLYCEMIC AND ANTI-OXIDANT POTENTIAL OF ETHANOL EXTRACT OF VITEX THYRSIFLORA LEAVES ON DIABETIC RATS STUDY ON FRESH LEAF AQUEOUS EXTR STUDY ON FRESH LEAF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF FLACOURTIA INDICA FOR HEPATOPROTECTIVE, ANTI-ANEMIC AND HYPOGLYCEMIC ABILITIES IN CCL4 INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN ALBINO WISTAR RATS