Piper Guineense Research Articles

In vitro comparative assessment of the inhibitory effects of single and combined spices against glucose-synthesizing enzymes

Purpose: To assess the individual and synergistic inhibitory activities of five (5) tropical spices, viz, Zingiber officinale Rosc., Xylopia aethiopica (Dun.) A. Rich, Piper guineense Schum & Thonn, Myristica fragrans Houtt. and Allium sativum L. against glucose hydrolysing enzymes.Methods: In vitro assessment of the alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities of cold water, hot water, ethanol and aqueous-ethanol extracts of each of the five spices and their combination was investigated using enzymatic protocols. Acarbose was used as the standard.Results: Only four extracts showed strong inhibition against alpha-glucosidase and weak inhibition against alpha-amylase. Going by their half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50), the combined spices exhibited the best concurrent inhibitory activity against both hydrolysing enzymes (665.83 ± 27.50 μg/mL for alpha-glucosidase) and (1166.86 ± 14.70 μg/mL for alpha-amylase).Conclusion: The findings from this study demonstrate the enhanced antihyperglycemic potentials of the combined spices compared to the individual spices for the management of diabetes.
 Keywords: Hyperglycemia, Diabetes, Alpha-amylase, Alpha-glucosidase, Zingiber officinale, Xylopia aethiopica, Piper guineense, Myristica fragrans, Allium sativum, Spices

Selected Plant Extracts Attenuates Dimethylamine and Sodium Nitrite Induced Liver Injury in Experimental Mice

Dimethylamine (DMA) and sodium nitrite (NaNO2) are present in numerous foods, food additive and environmental factors, which enhance chemical driven liver damage by inducing oxidative stress and cellular injury. Therefore, this study evaluated the possible therapeutic and protective effects of selected plant extracts on dimethylamine (DMA) and sodium nitrite (NaNO2)-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.
 The selected plants (Morinda lucida, Securine gavirosa, Xylopia aethiopica, Piper guineense and Calotropis procera) were extracted by maceration in distilled water and concentrated using freeze dryer. Swiss male albino mice were divided into Group I (control group) received distilled water; group II were administered orally with DMA (150 mg/kg body weight) and NaNO2 (100 mg/kg body weight) twice every week for 4 weeks, group III were treated orally with extract every 48 hrs simultaneously with DMA and NaNO2 and continued until the end of the experiment, group IV were treated orally with extract and fractions (150 mg/kg body weight) every 48 hrs for four weeks after the administration of DMA and NaNO2 and continued until the end of the experiment (4 weeks) and group V were given 5-flourouracil every 48 hours after induction of liver toxicity in mice. Liver function (alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, gamma glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase) tests were done in the serum of mice using standard method. Extract of P. guineense exhibited the best activity and was fractionated for further hepatoprotective studies. Liver sections of the mice treated with fractions of P. guineense were used for immuno-histochemical studies for p53, BCl-2, COX-2 and Ki-67 expression, and liver histological analysis. The antioxidant status of the mice treated with fractions of P. guineense was determined by measuring the catalase activity, sodium dismutase activity, reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde concentrations in the liver homogenates. Data were expressed as mean and considered significant at p<0.05 by one-way Analysis of Variance using Graph Pad Prism 5.
 The results of this study showed that activities of liver enzymes were significantly (p<0.05) decreased in groups treated with aqueous extracts after liver toxicity induction in mice. Treatment with fractions of P. guineense enhanced the antioxidant status of the mice administered with DNA/NaNO2. Oral administration of fractions of P. guineense to mice conferred hepatoprotection as evident from normal serum enzyme levels and reduced injuries on hepatocytes. Immuno-histochemical analysis of the liver samples revealed reduction in the expression of anti-apoptotic protein BCl2 and COX-2 in the mice treated with fractions of P. guineense and non-expression of cell cycle regulator p53 and Ki-67 after toxicity induction in mice.
 The ability of the selected extracts and fractions of P. guineense to impose certain ameliorative effects on DMA and NaNO2 induced toxicities in mice provided some scientific basis for their use in traditional medicine. The extracts might be used for liver toxicity treatment and/or prevention.

Perforation index assessment of cowpea seeds against cowpea bruchid, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius) [Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae], infestation using Piper guineense

BackgroundPowders and extracts of Piper guineense seeds and leaves were assessed for insecticidal activities against Callosobruchus maculatus in the laboratory at temperature and relative humidity of 29.6 °C and 75.9%, respectively. Bioactive compounds in P. guineense leaves and seeds were also investigated. The powders were tested at rates 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 g/20 g cowpea seeds while extracts were tested at 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0%.ResultsResults of contact toxicity assay of the seed powder caused 100% adult mortality at 96 h post-treatment period whereas leaf powder evoked 90% adult mortality within the same period at concentration of 1.0 g/20 g cowpea seeds. Low adult emergence was observed on cowpea seeds treated with 1 g of seed powder with percentage adult emergence of 10.0% and inhibition rate (IR) of 97.5%. Beetle Perforation Index (BPI) obtained from treated cowpea seeds was significantly different (P < 0.05) from BPI of untreated seeds. Extracts of P. guineense seed were more toxic than seed powder. Piper guineense seed extract caused 87.5% adult mortality of C. maculatus while leaf extract caused 70.0% adult mortality within 24 h of infestation at concentration of 1%. Progeny development of C. maculatus was completely inhibited in cowpea treated with 2% and 3% leaf and seed extracts of P. guineense. β-Pinene was the most abundant active compound in P. guineense seed (55.6%) and leaf (48.4%). β-Phellandrene occurred 38.2% in seeds while Ocimene had the least value of 0.2% in seed and 0.5% in leaf.ConclusionThe study showed that P. guineense seed powder and extracts were more effective than leaf powder and extract. Utilization of plant products as alternative to synthetic insecticides in protecting cowpea seeds against C. maculatus should be encouraged for enhanced food safety and security. Piper guineense is used as spice and medicine and interestingly safe for human use.

Ethno Botanical Survey, Anti-leukemia and Anticlastogenic Potential of Medicinal Plants used for Treatment of Leukemia in Oyo State Nigeria

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow is responsible for about 222.000 deaths annually. The side effects of chemotherapy in leukemia treatment have necessitated the search for natural products especially medicinal plants as alternative therapy.&#x0D; Aim: This study surveyed common plants used for treating leukemia in Oyo state, Nigeria and assessed the anti-leukemic and anti-clastogenic activities of fractions of Nymphaea lotus.&#x0D; Methods: Semi-structured questionnaire (1000) was used to collect the ethnobotanical data among the traditional healers. Leukemia was induced in albino mice with 400 mg/kg body weight of benzene intraperitoneally. Aqueous extracts (120mg/kg/bw), fractions and 5-florouracil (25mg) was administered to mice of different groups. The anti-leukemic, anti-clastogenic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective activities and hematological parameters were determined. N. lotus was subjected to gas-chromatography mass spectroscopy analysis.&#x0D; Results: The ethnobotanical survey recorded 89 plant species with their local names and parts used in the traditional therapeutic preparations. Seven plants (Pistiastratiotes (2.5%), Nymphaea lotus (1.4%), Piper guineense (1.7%), Securinega virosa (2.5%), Calotropis procera (3.4%), Morinda lucida (2.5%) and Xylopia aethiopica (4.5%) with the highest frequency of citation were selected for anti-leukemic and anti-clastogenic screening. The aqueous extract of N. lotus and M. lucida displayed anti-leukemic potential. M. lucida and X. aethiopica improved the hematological parameters. Ethyl acetate fraction of N. lotus significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced the number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocyte in the bone marrow and showed anti-leukemic activity. Fractions of N. lotus restored the hematological parameters and exhibited significant (p&lt;0.05) antioxidant activity. Histological observation revealed improvement in the liver general cyto-architecture of mice treated with ethyl acetate and butanol fractions of N. lotus. Some known compounds were identified in ethyl acetate fraction of N. lotus.&#x0D; Conclusion: Most of the species tested had some anti-leukemic effect in mice, which to some extent supports their traditional inclusion in herbal preparations for treatment of leukemia. The study also identified potential anti-leukemic compounds in N. lotus extract. The study also identified potential anti-leukemic compounds in N. lotus extract.

INSECTICIDAL ACTIVITY OF PIPER GUINEENSE (SCHUMACH AND THONN) SEED OIL AGAINST CALLOSOBRUCHUS MACULATUS (F.) (COLEOPTERA: CHRYSOMELIDAE) IN STORED COWPEA SEEDS

Post-harvest losses due to insect pest infestation in storage constitute a challenge to sustainable food security and economic losses to farmers throughout the world. Use of synthetic chemicals have been the most effective means of reducing losses in storage. Unfortunately, these toxicants have adverse effects in humans and the environment. There is renewed search for safer plant products as alternatives. In this study, we assessed the potential use of Piper guineense seed oil in the control of cowpea bruchid, Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) infestation on stored cowpea seeds. Adult mortality, oviposition rate, F1 progeny emergence, cowpea seed damage and seed germinability were the indices considered in the assessment under laboratory conditions. The setup of the experiment was completely randomized design (CRD). Statistical analysis of the data was by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Adult C. maculatus mortality was dose-dependent with higher dosages inducing 100% mortality. The number of eggs laid on the treated seeds were significantly (P&lt;0.001) reduced. Progeny emergence and feeding damage were completely inhibited at higher dosages. The seed oil has no adverse effect on cowpea seed viability. The results indicated that P. guineense seed oil has protectant potential against insect pest damage in storage and a good alternative to synthetic insecticides in the control of insect pest of stored products.

English

The leaves of Piper guineense Schum. and Thonn (Piperaceae) are used in ethnomedicine for the management/treatment of various diseases. The objective of this study was to establish the pharmacognostic and toxicological profiles of P. guineense to help practitioners in making choices, and to assist scientists involved in the research of the Piper genus. The fresh leaves were examined for their macroscopic and microscopic properties. Numerical (quantitative analysis) and phytochemical evaluations were carried out using standard methods. Acute toxicity profile of the plant, including LD 50 was investigated using mice while sub-acute toxicity to determine effects of the plant leaf extract on some major organs was investigated for 30 days in rats. The macroscopic, microscopic and numerical features observed in the leaves of P. guineense could aid in sample identification. Glycosides, alkaloids and phenolics were among the secondary plant metabolites present. Oral doses ≤ 8000 mg/kg did not lead to death of the animals. Sub-acute toxicological evaluations at the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg showed mild congestion in all the target organs, except spleen, where at 500 mg/kg, in addition to mild stromal oedema, there was mild follicular activation and moderate hyperplasia of sinus histiocytes. These results could aid researchers and practitioners in the investigations and consumption of the leaves of P. guineense. Its overall safety profile needs to be further evaluated and care should be taken on prolonged usage. Key words: Piper guineense, Piperaceae, pharmacognostic standardization, toxicological.

Phytochemical Screening, GC-MS Analysis and Antioxidant Activity of Three Medicinal Plants From Nigeria

Phytochemical screening, GC-MS analysis and antioxidant activity of some medicinal plants were investigated using standard methods. Leaves of Gongronema latifolium, Petrocarpus mildbraedii, and Piper guineense plants were prepared properly and used in the entire study. Results of phytochemical screening for the plants revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, reducing sugars amongst others at different concentrations. Results of GC-MS analysis for G.latifolium showed a total of thirty-three compounds of which Cyclohexano, 2-l(methlaminomethyl)-trans had the highest retention time, squalene had the highest molecular weight and phytol had the highest peak area. GC-MS result for P.mildbraedii revealed a total of twenty-three of which Acatamide,2,2,2-trichloro- had the highest retention time, Erucic acid had the highest molecular weight whereas n-Hexadecanoic acid the highest peak area. Only ten compound were observed in P.guineense of which Ethyl (3-hydroxyphenyl) carbamate had the highest retention time, Benzaminde, N-(4,5-dichloro-1,3-benzothiazol-2yl)-3,5-dimethoxy- had the highest molecular weight and Benzene, 1,2,3-trimethoxy-5-(2-propenyl)- has the highest peak area in P. guineense. The antioxidant activity of the plant extracts as assessed, followed the order P.guineense &gt; G.latifolium&gt; P. mildbraedii in comparative with ascorbic acid used as the control. The observed compounds become very important when the usefulness of these plants as medicinal plants are considered. They could as well be behind the antioxidant property of the plants in this study. This study has revealed the phytochemical screening, GC-MS analysis and antioxidant activity of some medicinal plants.

Assessing the potentials of two local topical ointments as affordable treatment against tungiasis infestation: A self-experimentation in Igbokoda, Nigeria

Infestations caused by penetration of Tunga penetrans (Siphonaptera: Hectopsyllidae) in cutaneous sub-layers present morbidities and resulting mortalities if surgical treatment remains the obtainable. Considering the neglected nature of this infestation and the absence of marketable product, we report an observation on the use of grounded naphthalene in kerosene ointment, and powder of Piper guineense in coconut oil ointment as affordable treatment of embedded tungiasis flea in Igbokoda. A total of 80 individuals partitioned into two groups of 40 individuals each were assigned the locally made topical ointment irrespective of stages of tungiasis lesions. The mean of stage I, II and III tungiasis lesions treated with grounded naphthalene in kerosene ointment respectively decreased from 1.83, 3.42 and 3.89 to 0 after 5–6 days (p < .05). Also, the mean of stage I, II and III tungiasis lesions treated with grounded P. guineense ointment respectively decreased from 1.52, 3.10 and 5.00 to 0 after 6 to 7 days of treatment exposure (p < .05). Very high significant difference between stages and exposure days of participants assigned the two topical ointment was recorded p < .0001 and p = .0005 respectively. Naphthalene ointment and to a lesser extent P. guineense ointment is best to control and hinder development cycle of embedded fleas irrespective of infested part and stage of infection.

Effect of Intercropping Beans with Maize and Botanical Extract on Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) Infestation

African farmers are currently grappling with potential control measures for the invasive fall armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda), which has recently emerged as an important economic pest that is ravaging maize fields across the continent. We evaluated the efficacy of the West African black pepper extract and beans intercropping systems as viable FAW control measures and the implication on maize yields. The experiment comprised five treatments (control-no input, dwarf beans intercrop, climbing beans intercrop, West African black pepper extract, and insecticide) with three replications each. FAW severity was assessed at three to seven weeks after planting (WAP), while maize infestation was assessed at seven WAP. FAW severity increased significantly (P&lt;0.05) across WAP for the control and dwarf beans intercrop, with the highest at four and six WAP, respectively. FAW severity also differed (P&lt;0.05) significantly across treatments at four to seven WAP, with the lowest recorded in the extract of West African black pepper (Piper guineense) and the highest in control treatments. Maize infestation ranged from 13 to 93%, with the lowest in the West African black pepper extract and synthetic insecticide, followed by both dwarf and climbing beans intercrops and then the control. The maize yield determined at physiological maturity ranged from 2.2 to 6.3 t ha−1 across treatments and differed significantly, with the highest in the West African black pepper extract and synthetic insecticide, followed by both the dwarf and climbing beans intercrops, as compared to the control. Overall, the West African black pepper extract and beans push cropping systems demonstrated efficacy as viable sustainable alternative control measures for the invasive fall armyworm in maize fields.

Socio-economic Benefits of Non-timber Forest Products to the AFCOE2M Communities of Southern Cameroon

A study was carried out in the community forest of Ebo, Medjounou and Mbamesoban communities (AFCOE2M) in the South Region of Cameroon to evaluate the contribution of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to the people&amp;rsquo;s livelihood.&#x0D; &#x0D; The study identifies the various NTFPs used and further evaluates their socio-economic and cultural contributions in sustaining the livelihood of the AFCOE2M community. Essentially, the study assesses the exploitation and utilization of NTFPs. One Hundred and twenty five (125) individuals were randomly selected in the three villages that make up the AFCOE2M community forest. Fifty two (52) species of NTFPs of plant origin were identified, from which seven (7) were frequently used in all the three villages namely; Irvingia gabonensis, Trichoscypha acuminata, Alstonia boonei, Garcinia kola, Piper guineense, Picralima nitida, and Ricinodendron heudelotii. Results reveal that NTFPs plant parts used for consumption consist of 68% fruits, 20% seeds, 5% barks, 4% roots and 3% leaves. NTFPs used for medicinal purposes comprised of 70% barks, 16% seeds, 7% leaves, 5% fruits and 2% roots. There was a significant difference (P = 0.049) in the number of NTFP types consumed as food while that was not the case for medicinal NTFPs (P = 0.86). There was a significant difference in the number of NTFP species used for food originating from different land use types (P-value = 0.048) as well as between those used for medicinal purposes (P-value = 0.012).

&lt;i&gt;In vitro&lt;/i&gt; evaluation of antisickling activity of herbal combination of three medicinal plants

Sickle cell disorder is a genetic ailment with enormous social and economic burden for patients and caregivers. The most promising management apart from being expensive particularly for poor African people, faces some major incompatibility problems. The patients consequently rely on herbal therapy which could be prepared in single or combination forms to manage the painful episodes and its complications. This present study aimed to formulate polyherbal combination and evaluate three purposively selected plants previously reported for their antisickling activities. The polyherbal products were formulated using both aqueous and 70% ethanol extracts into different combinational ratio with the best in 1:1:1 and evaluated for its antisickling activity. The antisickling activity involved both the inhibitory and reversal effects at varying concentrations from 1.0 mg/ml to 6.0 mg/ml using ciklavit as the positive control. The best inhibitory activity was found in ethanol extract of Piper guineense, Gongronema latifolium and Cymbopogon citratus (PGC) with 70.09 ± 0.67% when compared with the positive control (59.25 ± 0.05%) at 4.0 mg/mg while the reversal ability was 67.87 ± 1.23%. The aqueous extracts of the combinations had activity above 50% with the exception of PGC (2:3:1) which is a little less than 50% (46.67 ± 0.98%) while the highest was 60.02 ± 0.87%. The polyherbal ethanol extract had better effects than the aqueous extract and the standard drug used in this study.

Acute and sub-acute toxicity of antisickling polyherbal extract in Wistar albino rats

Piper guineense, Gongronema latifolium and Cymbopogon citratus (PGC) serve as an effective polyherbal antisickling extract used in the management of sickle cell disorder. This present study assessed the toxicity effect of the ethanol leaf extract of PGC in rats. The acute oral toxicity test of the polyherbal was evaluated in albino rats using a single-dose based on behavioral changes and mortality. Sub-acute toxicological evaluation of PGC was examined using biochemical, hematological and histopathological methods. Biochemical analysis was carried out using liver markers enzymes, kidney markers enzymes, and lipid profiles. The hematological measurement includes white blood cell counts (WBC), Lymphocytes (LYM), monocytes (MON), granulocytes (GRAN), Red blood cell count (RBC). The organs (liver, kidney, and heart) were collected and prepared using standard protocols with hematoxylin and eosin for histopathological evaluation. The acute toxicity study of ethanol leaf extract of PGC up to the limit dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight of the animals used did not produce any signs and symptoms of toxic effects or mortality after 48 hrs. of oral administration. There were no significant differences (p &lt; 0.001) in the observed values between the control and the treated groups for all the biochemical and hematological parameters analyzed. Histopathological evaluation of the organs demonstrated mild degeneration in the kidney and liver while the heart revealed no pathological changes in the treated group of rats. The result of acute toxicity indicates that the combined antisickling polyherbal PGC extract appeared to be safe and non- toxic. Our findings for the 28 days daily oral administration of PGC extract was dose dependent and well tolerated by the animals. Although, slight changes were observed in some biochemical parameters and histology of the kidney and liver at high doses when compared with control rats. Therefore, the consumption of the antisickling polyherbal PGC extract orally should be used encouraged at lower doses and high doses should be avoided for the management of sickle cell disorder until subjected to further cytotoxicity evaluation. &#x0D; Keywords: Polyherbal combination, acute toxicity, subacute toxicity, biochemical parameter, hematological parameter, histopathological parameters.

Comparative Study of the Effect of Piper nigrum (White and Black) and Piper guineense on Lipids Quality of Groundnuts Pudding

This study investigates the effect of white and black Piper nigrum and Piper guineense on lipids quality of oil extracted from groundnuts pudding. This work was carried in the Research Unit of Biochemistry, Medicinal plants, Food Sciences, and Nutrition, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Cameroon, between January 2018 and December 2019. The antioxidant activity of these spices was determined. Cooking by steaming of groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea) pudding was carried out using groundnuts paste with 0 g, 0.5 g, 1 g, 2 g and 4 g of spices and 30 ml of warm water respectively. Oils were extracted from the prepared groundnuts pudding using a mixture of chloroform and methanol. The lipid quality of oil samples was studied by the determination of the peroxide, P-anisidine, total oxidation, thiobarbituric and iodine values. Results revealed that these spices possess non negligible antioxidant properties. Black Piper nigrum (BPN) presented the highest total phenolic (TPC: 85.00 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (FC: 271.94 mg CE/g) contents. The lowest TPC and FC was observed with the aqueous extract white Piper nigrum (WPN: 52.38 mg GAE/g and 113.32 mg CE/g respectively). The use of these spices in groundnuts pudding preparation contributed to limit the formation of primary and secondary oxidation products of groundnuts pudding oil. It was also observed that white Piper nigrum (WPN) better preserve lipids quality of oils at all concentrations because oil extracted from pudding cooked with 0.5 g, 1 g, 2 g and 4 g presented peroxide values lower than 10 meqO2/kg (2.81 meqO2/kg, 2.99 meqO2/kg, 3.28 meqO2/kg and 5.46 meqO2/kg respectively). In summary these spices especially white Piper nigrum can be used to preserve lipids oxidation during cooking by steaming of groundnuts pudding.

Insecticidal activity of some botanical extracts against legume flower thrips and legume pod borer on cowpea Vigna unguiculata L. Walp

BackgroundInsect pests infestation is one the major constraints to cowpea production in many Sub-Saharan Africa including Nigeria. Control of these pests by farmers has been vastly by use of chemical pesticide which possesses lots of threats to human health and environments. This study is aimed at evaluating insecticidal efficacy of petroleum ether seed extracts of four plants (Azadirachta indica, A. Juss, Piper guineense Schum and Thonn, Annona muricata L., and Jatropha curcas L.) against legume flower thrips, Megalurothrips sjostedti Tryb., and legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata Fab. on cowpea as alternative eco-friendly options for the control of the cowpea field pests.MethodsThe extracts were applied at the rate of 10 ml/l of water at 1 week intervals for 6 weeks starting from 7 weeks after sowing (WAS) and replicate three times. The extracts were compared with lambdacyhalothrin at 5 ml/l of water as a standard check and untreated control.ResultsThe results showed that all the treatments significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the population of legume bud thrips and legume pod borer compared to control. A. muricata followed by Piper guineense significantly (p < 0.01) reduced the population of legume flower thrips and legume pod borer as well as pod damage compared to other extracts. The percentage reduction of M. sjostedti and M. vitrata population by the extracts ranged from 52.07–69.28% and 57.78–78.52% respectively compared to control. Cowpea yield was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in plots treated with A. muricata and Piper guinense compared to other extracts. The efficacies of A. muricata and P. guineese were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than lambdacyhalothrin for the control of legume flower thrips and legume pod borer of cowpea.ConclusionPetroleum ether seed extracts of A. muricata and P. guineense were very potent against legume flower thrips and pod borer, and thus they can be effectively used by smallholder farmers for the management of cowpea post flowering pests. These plant products are readily available, environment friendly, and are suitable for low-income agriculture practiced in developing countries.

Proximate Composition, Thiobarbituric Acid and Sensory Properties of Chicken-Breadfruit Patties with Piper guineense and Monodora myristica Oleoresins

The proximate composition, thiobarbituric acid value (TBA) and sensory properties of Piper guineense and Monodora myristica oleoresin spiced chicken-breadfruit patties at refrigerated storage for four weeks were evaluated. Breadfruit flour replaced 15 % of chicken and two concentrations (0.5 and 1 %) of P. guineense and M. myristica oleoresins were separately incorporated in the production of the patties. Moisture, protein and fat content of the patties varied significantly (P≤0.05) from 22.9 - 36.98 %, 11.14 - 18.13 % and 2.49 - 3.66 % respectively. Ash, fibre and carbohydrate ranged from 3.30 - 4.20 %, 0.84 - 4.61 % and 40.89 - 50.06 % respectively. The initial TBA values for the samples varied significantly (P≤0.05) from 2.96 - 3.51 mg maloadehyde/kg with an increase of 13 - 21. 17 - 24, 20 - 27 and 24 - 29 % at week 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. P. guineense and M. myristica oleoresins significantly (P≤0.05) reduced oxidative rancidity. Colour, flavour and overall acceptability of the patties decreased significantly (P≤0.05) from moderate likeness to slight dis-likeness. Breadfruit flour, P. guineense and M. myristica oleoresins will be of relevance in the production of an acceptable compositionally balanced chicken-breadfruit patties with less rancidity.

Insecticidal activity of aqueous indigenous plant extracts against insect pests associated with cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in Southern Guinea Savannah Zone of Nigeria

Insect pests of cucumber are mainly controlled using synthetic insecticides. However, considering the various ecological dangers caused by their usage, it becomes imperative to provide alternatives to them. The insecticidal activities of aqueous extract of five selected plants, Lantana camara Linneaus, Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Tithonia diversifolia Hemsl, Azadirachta indica A. Juss and Piper guineense Schum and Thonn. extracts against insect pests (Phyllotreta cruciferae Fabricius, Diabrotical undecimpunctata Howardi Barber, Epilachna vigintiopunctata Fabricius and Monolepta spp Coquillett) of cucumber were evaluated. The extract of each plant was prepared by pounding 1000 g which was then soaked in 2000 ml of water for 24 hours to form stock solution. The mixture was serially diluted into two concentrations (10 and 15%v/v) and applied to cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Data collection commenced at 2 weeks after planting on weekly basis for six weeks. Severity of insect damage on leaves, fruits, and yield were assessed. A. indica (10%v/v) and Z. officinale (15%v/v) demonstrated significantly (p < 0.05) highest efficacy with least insect population of 1.46 and 1.52, respectively. At 5–6 weeks after treatment, A. indica and Z. officinale plant extracts had the same efficacy with Karate 25EC®. At 10% concentration, P. guineense, T. diversifolia and L. camara performed better than the control. Plant treated with 10% Z. officinale extract had the highest fruit yield (2.58 t/ha) compared with karate (0.84 t/ha). In conclusion, all the plant extracts applied were as effective as Karate 25EC® in controlling insect pests of cucumber. It is therefore recommended that A. indica, Z. officinale and P. guineense extracts could be used to effectively control insect pests of cucumber.

Evaluation of the modulatory effects of Piper guineense leaves and seeds on egg albumin-induced inflammation in experimental rat models

Ethnopharmacological relevanceInflammation processes are implicated in many degenerative diseases. Piper guineense, a West African spice belonging to the Piperaceae family has been reported to contain anti-inflammatory agents. Aim of studyThis study determined the modulatory effects of methanolic extracts of Piper guineense leaves and seeds on egg albumin-induced inflammation in rats.Study design and methods: Inflammation in the hind paw was induced by injecting 0.1ml egg albumin subcutaneously. Treatments including diclofenac were given orally. Rectal temperature and paw size were monitored hourly for the first 3 h’ post-induction of inflammation and then at the 6th and 24th hour. Serum levels of CRP, MDA, LDH and GGT activities were determined at these hours. ResultsResults showed that egg albumin-induced inflammation caused a significant (p < 0.05) increase in paw size and rectal temperature. It further showed that treatment with the leaves and seed extracts reversed the effect of inflammation on serum levels of CRP and MDA, and on LDH and GGT activities similar to diclofenac in rats. ConclusionExtracts of the Piper guineense seed and leaves have potentials of being used as an anti-inflammatory agent but further studies need to be done to determine their toxicity and effects on immunological markers of inflammation.

Evaluation of Phytochemical and Mineral Constituents of Piper guineense Schum. &amp; Thonn. and Piper Umbellatum Linn: Implications for Ethnomedicine

Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to human use as food, spices and/or medicine. This study evaluates phytochemical and mineral constituents and ethnomedicinal uses of Piper guineense Schum. &amp; Thonn and Piper umbellatum Linn. &#x0D; Methods: Two phased investigations – ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical/mineral constituents of P. guineense and P. umbellatum – were carried out in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Firstly, key informants’ interview and questionnaire were used to elicit reactions from respondents (vendors and end users) on ethnomedicinal and sundry uses of P. guineense and P. umbellatum in nine purposively selected markets out of 27. Secondly, samples of leaves and stems of P. guineense and P. umbellatum were collected and analysed in the laboratory for selected phytochemicals (alkaloid, cyanogenic glycosides, tannin, flavonoid, tannins, anthraquinones, saponin and phenol), and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, Zn).&#x0D; Results: Market survey revealed that vendor/end users (85%) were well-informed on the uses of the plants for food (spices, condiments) and ethnomedicine. Most respondents (80%) affirmed that the leaves were frequently used for flavouring; and for preparing traditional medicinal soups when combined with assorted vegetables. Respondents (80%) averred that the leaf was the most frequently used followed by stems (10.9%), roots (5.5%) and seeds (3.6%). P. guineense was considered best for stomach disorder/ulcer, respiratory/urinary tract infections; P. umbellatum most preferred for arthritis, fever and fertility/womb cleansing. Phytochemical analysis revealed P. umbellatum stem had more alkaloids, flavonoids and phenol; and anthraquinone in the leaf while P. guineense stem had more saponins and tannins. However, mineral analyses revealed more Ca and Mg in P. guineense leaf; and K, Na, Zn and P in P. umbellatum stem while Fe was higher in the leaf.&#x0D; Conclusion: P. guineense and P. umbellatum are aromatic liane and shrub used for flavouring and spicing of food, and medicine. These fairly ubiquitous and underutilized plants can contribute significantly to food and health needs of forest dependent people in Nigeria and elsewhere in West Africa. The study has revealed that these aromatic plants are rich sources of phytomedicines and important minerals. Further investigation on the phytochemical/pharmacological potentials and ecological idiosyncrasies of these underutilized aromatic rainforest liane and shrub is recommended.

Assessing efficacies of insect pest management methods for stored bagged maize preservation in storehouses located in Nigerian markets

Stored product insect pests cause significant losses in maize in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Control of these pests with conventional insecticides is fraught with health and environmental risks. Globally, several reduced-risk methods have been deployed as alternatives to conventional insecticides. In this study, conducted in February–December 2016, efficacies of five treatments to control insects in bagged maize stored in Nigerian market storehouses were evaluated. Treatments included a botanical (Piper guineense), Bularafa diatomaceous earth (DE), permethrin powder (Rambo™), PICS (hermetic) bags and ZeroFly® bags. The study also had a negative control comprising untreated maize in polypropylene bags. Study locations were in three grain markets, namely Eleekara market in Oyo town and Arisekola market in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria, and Ago market in Ilorin, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. Except in the case of PICS bags, each storehouse had six 100-kg bags for each storage method or treatment; these bags were sampled monthly. For PICS, each storehouse had 18 bags (∼80 kg each) and six were destructively sampled every 4 months. Psocids (total 3,614) and S. zeamais (total 1,255) were the most abundant types of insects found during the study. However, among all treatments, PICS bags were the most effective at mitigating population growth of all species of stored product insects encountered, and the number of psocids and S. zeamais found in PICS bags during the entire study were 0 and 8, respectively. The order of effectiveness of the treatments were PICS > Permethrin > ZeroFly > DE > Botanical > control. Data showed PICS, Permethrin, ZeroFly, and DE when used according to manufacturer’s instructions or label are effective and can be incorporated in integrated pest management of stored-product insects in maize storehouses. More research is required to explore how P. guineense can be made more efficacious.

Ethnopharmacological Survey and Physiological Evaluation of Nutritional and Phytochemical Contents of Indigenous Plants Used for Treatment of Toothache and Mouth Odour in Ijebu Ode Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria

The use of herbs for improvement of oral hygiene is increasing in many communities in Nigeria despite the usage of other dental care products. On the basis of this the present study was conducted to assess indigenous plants used to manage dental condition and mouth odour and to evaluate nutritional, phytochemicals and antinutrient content of the plants. A survey was conducted to document plants used for treatment of toothache and mouth odour in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area. Using random sampling technique, a total of one hundred structured questionnaire was administered to Traditional Health Practitioners in three major markets of the study area. Nutritional, phytochemical and anti-nutrient contents of most used plants were evaluated. Data were analyzed using Statistical Analysis System. Means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at 5% level of significance (p &lt; 0.05). A total of twenty-three (23) plants belonging to sixteen families were enumerated out of which Capsicum frutescens, Piper guineense fruits and Zanthoxylum zanthoxloides roots were the most exploited for management of the conditions. Crude fibre (8.86 %), fat (1.12%) and ash contents (4.73%) were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher in Z. zanthoxloides roots while moisture (25.75 %) was significantly higher (p &lt;0.05) in C. frutescens fruits. Calcium (192.10 mg/100g), phosphorus (108.50 mg/100g), sodium (51.33 mg/100g), iron (4.85 mg/100g), Zinc (3.94 mg/100g), manganese (1.15 mg/100g) and copper (2.12 mg/100g) were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher in Z. zanthoxloides roots compared C. frutescens and P. guineense fruits. Vitamin A (600.00 µ/100g), vitamin B (0.07.00 mg/100g), vitamin C (94.54 mg/100g) and vitamin E (720.00) were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher in C. frutescens than Z. zanthoxloides and P. guineense. Results also showed that tannin (6.40 %), oxalate (30.00%), phytate (0.40%) and trypsin inhibitor (20.00 %) were significantly higher in frutescens than Z. zanthoxloides roots. Similar significant (p&lt;0.05) increase were observed in the quantity of flavonoid (3.25%), saponnis (1.30%), phenol (0.60%) and anthocyaninns (0.23%) in Z. zanthoxloides compared with C. frutescens and P. guineense.