Cordia Myxa Research Articles

Herbal approach for the management of C0VID-19: an overview.

COVID-19 is the most recently discovered coronavirus infectious disease and leads to pandemic all over the world. The clinical continuum of COVID-19 varies from mild illness with non-specific signs and symptoms of acute respiratory disease to extreme respiratory pneumonia and septic shock. It can transmit from animal to human in the form of touch, through the air, water, utensils, fomite and feco-oral route blood. The pathogenesis and clinical features of COVID-19 be the same as the clinical manifestation associated epidemic Fever. In Unani medicine, various herbal drugs are described under the caption of epidemic disease. Great Unani scholar also Avicenna (980-1037 AD) recommended that during epidemic condition movement should be restricted, self-isolation, fumigation around the habitant with perfumed herbs (Ood, Kafoor, Sumbuluttib, Saad Kofi, Loban, etc.), and use of appropriate antidotes (Tiryaqe Wabai) and vinegar (Sirka) as prophylaxis. Herbal approach is based on single (Unnab-Ziziphus jujuba, Sapistan-Cordia myxa, Bahidana-Cydonia oblonga, Khatmi-Althea officinalis, Khubazi-Malva sylvestris, Zafran-Crocus sativus, Sibr-Aloe barbedensis, Murmuki-Commiphora myrrha, Darchini-Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Qaranfal-Syzygium aromaticum, Rihan-Oscimum sanctum, Habtus Sauda-Nigella sativa, Aslus Sus-Glycyrrhiza glabra, Maghze Amaltas-Cassia fistula and Adusa-Adhatoda vasica) and compound drugs (Habbe Bukhar, Sharbat Khaksi, Sharbat Zanjabeel, Naqu Nazla, Majoon Chobchini, Jawrish Jalinus and Khamira Marvareed) most of them are claimed for anti-viral, anti-pyretic, blood purifier, cardioprotective and expectorant activities. Traditionally most of the herbal practitioners are using it.

The potential use of Cordia myxa in the remediation of crude oil pollution

This study investigated the effects of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria and organic matter on a crude oil-polluted soil by Cordia myxa. The treatments consisted of crude oil at two levels (3 and 6% w/w), municipal waste compost at two levels (5 and 10% v/v), and two different bacterial strains (Pseudomonas sp.141 and Pseudomonas sp. 27ps). At the end of the growth period, the plants were harvested and prepared for the laboratory analyses. The greatest population of oil degrading-bacteria (4.6 × 106 CFU/g soil) was observed in the treatment containing 10% compost, 6% crude oil, and Pseudomonas sp.141. The highest crude oil degradation (76.49%) was recorded in the soil polluted with 6% crude oil, amended with 10% compost, and inoculated with Pseudomonas sp.141. The investigation on the degradation of the chains of C10–C35 compounds indicated that, in various treatments, the most abundant compound was among those with fewer carbon atoms (C12–C25), so the application of organic matter boosted the degradation of crude oil. In conclusion, C. myxa seedlings has an acceptable efficiency in the remediation of the oil-contaminated soil affected by biological factors (compost and Pseudomonas bacteria), which is because of their high tolerance to the pollution and their ability to penetrate deeper soil layers.

Structural characterization, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of a novel water soluble polysaccharide from Cordia myxa fruits

In this study, water-soluble polysaccharide and fatty acids of Cordia myxa fruit harvested from the southwest of Iran were isolated and investigated. The extraction yield of water-soluble polysaccharide of C. myxa fruit (WSPCM) was 24.12%, and its experimental purity was 79.43%. The High Performance Liquid Chromatography results indicated that the WSPCM consisted of glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose, ribose, maltitol, and maltoheptaose. The atomic absorption spectrometer analysis indicated that WSPCM was a rich source of Ca and Na. The dynamic light scattering results illustrated that the average particle size and zeta potential were 1510.7 nm and − 64.96, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the presence of α and β-configurations in WSPCM. The total unsaturated and saturated fatty acids were 60.62% and 39.38%, respectively and oleic, palmitic, and linoleic were the main fatty acids. The WSPCM represented good antibacterial activities against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria. Moreover, it showed a relatively good antioxidant activity. In conclusion, WSPCM could be introduced as a novel natural antioxidant and antibacterial substance in functional food.

Activation of defense mechanism in Lehsua (Cordia myxa) through systemic acquired resistance inducers against Alternaria leaf spot disease

Indian cherry or Lehsua (Cordia myxa Roxb.) is vernacularly known as Lasoda and Gunda and it is a major fruit of the family Boraginaceae which well flourished in arid conditions of Rajasthan and India. The immature fruits are used for preparing mix vegetable and pickle in Indian cuisine. Alternaria leaf spot of lehsua, caused by Alternaria alternata is an important disease of this crop and causes economic yield loss. In present investigation, four systemic acquired resistance (SAR) activators (salicylic acid, isonicotinic acid, hydrogen peroxide and β-amino butyric acid) were sprayed in orchard and this was the foremost case of study in perennial and arid fruit crops in Rajasthan. Among these, spray of salicylic acid (@200 ppm) proved most effective in reducing disease intensity (54.87%) followed by 2,6-dichloroisonicotinic acid (47.85%) possibly by activating the cellular genes and defense mechanism and thereby spreading throughout the plant body. These SAR inducers can be used as an alternative to fungicides as green chemicals by incorporating in integrated disease management system, because they do not cause bio-accumulation in eatables and environmental hazards.

Yield and Nutrition of Moth Bean-Mustard Rotation in Soils Amended with Tree Leaf Litters in the Arid Region of Rajasthan

Background: The incorporation of leaf litters in agroforestry systems can meet a significant share of nutrients demand and improve crop yield. The Citrus aurontifolia, Aegle marmelos and Cordia myxa (among fruit trees) and Colophospermum mopane, Acacia senegal, Acacia tortilis, Dalbergia sissoo (among trees) are well-adapted species to the arid environment. Unfortunately, little work has been done in the past to study the influence of leaf litters of these species on yield and nutrition of crops grown in arid region. Therefore, the present experiment was planned to study the influence of leaf litters of Colophospermum mopane, Acacia senegal, Acacia tortilis, Dalbergia sissoo, Citrus aurontifolia, Aegle marmelos and Cordia myxa on yield and uptake of nutrients in moth bean and Indian mustard in arid region. Methods: Field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Regional Research Station, Bikaner in moth bean-mustard rotation during 2010-11 and 2011-12 by incorporating leaf litters of seven tree species i.e. Mopane (Colophospermum mopane), Gum acacia (Acacia Senegal), Umbrella tree (Acacia tortilis), Indian rosewood (Dalbergia sissoo), Sour lime (Citrus aurantifolia), Assyrian plum (Cordia myxa) and Bengal quince (Aegle marmelos) in randomized block design with three replications. Grain and straw yield was recorded and analysed for N, P and K content. Result: The maximum grain yield of moth bean and its residual effect on mustard was observed in the soils amended with leaf litters of Citrus aurontifolia followed by Aegle marmelos and Dalbergia sissoo. The total uptake of N, P and K was significantly higher in the treatments of Citrus aurontifolia and Aegle marmelos, which was due to the higher dry matter production of crops, faster rate of litter decomposition and higher release of nutrients.

Histological Investigations for Cordia Myxa During the Treatment of Gastritis in Local Rabbits

Background: The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of medical fruits, through H+ proton pump inhibitors and observation to main of histological changes accompanying for treatment. Methods, Adult domestic healthy rabbits, all experimental animals were adapted in animal house. Animals were taken for this study distributed into three group, control (5 ml/kg b.w) gastritis (10% glacial acetic acid 1ml//kg b.w) and treatment group (5 ml/kg b.w) oral administration during 21 day for 3 time daily. Results: the main histological observations for effects of (Juicer fruit Bumper) during induce inflammation by 10% acetic acid, after 4hr showing the inflammation region in internal surface in fundic region but most of internal surface it’s normally. Histologically, the stomach of gastritis group was observed the erosion in epithelia surface and congestion of blood vessels, gastric pits disappear but most of changes which accrue in lamina propria generally. The rabbits of treated group was observed reductions in inflammatory area, with some extent of mucosal regeneration (re-epithelization) and the parietal cells appeared a granular cytoplasm and proliferation of connective tissue cells (granulation tissue). Conclusions: these findings suggest that (Cordia myxa) considered perfect anti-inflammatory and H+ proton inhibited pump

Use of Gum Cordia (Cordia myxa) as a Natural Starch Modifier; Effect on Pasting, Thermal, Textural, and Rheological Properties of Corn Starch.

Incorporation of hydrocolloid gums in native starches help to improve their pasting, thermal, rheological and textural properties along with improvement in the stability of starch gels. The use of Cordia gum is not widely studied as a starch modifier and this fact could make this study more interesting and unique. This study investigated the effects of the non-conventional hydrocolloid gum (Cordia gum) on corn starch properties. Corn starch and gum Cordia (GC) blends were prepared at different replacement levels (0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%). The effect of GC levels on pasting, thermal, rheological, and textural properties were evaluated using rapid viscoanalyzer, differential scanning colorimeter, rheometer, and texture analyzer. The presence of GC significantly increased starch gelatinization temperatures, enthalpies, peak viscosities, final viscosities, and setback viscosities. GC improved freeze thaw stability in starch. The shear rate (1/s) versus shear stress (σ) data of all samples fitted well to the simple power law model (R2 = 0.97–0.99). The control had the lowest flow behavior index (n; 0.17), which increased to (0.36–0.56) with increasing GC levels. The consistency index (K) of the starch-gum blends increased with increasing GC levels. The dominance of elastic properties over viscous properties was demonstrated by G′ > G″. The magnitudes of G′ and G″ increased with increasing GC concentration. The outcomes could help to use this modification method as an alternative to chemical and enzymatic modification with respect to cost, safety, less time consumption and less requirement of process modifications.

Studies on genetic variability of ecotypes and Biochemical analysis of wild edible medicinal tree Lasuda (Cordia myxa L.) in Himalayan Shivaliks

Cordia myxa L. is traditional medicinal tree with multiple uses such as vegetable, fodder and soil binder tree and used as delicacy in rural cuisine in summer and rainy season. The present study was an attempt about genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance among the impor­tant traits of lasuda crop and use this by modern techniques to develop highly nutritive strains. The overall values of PCV were higher than values for all the characters in among all the landraces under study. PCV was highest for fruit diameter (32.95) followed by seed diameter (30.92), pulp weight (22.75) and fruit weight (17.01), while, lowest level of PCV was observed for fruit length (8.62). Almost similar variations were noted in GCV, highest GCV was found for fruit diameter (32.47) followed by seed diameter (28.54), pulp weight (21.02) and fruit weight (15.57), while, the lowest level of GCV was observed for fruit length, which was found to be 7.77). The estimate of genetic advance was highest for fruit weight (531.11g) followed by fruit diameter (18.85). Whereas, lowest genetic advance was observed for fruit length (4.49) and pulp weight (5.62).highest genetic gain was recorded in the fruit diameter(65.91 followed by seed diameter(54.27), pulp weight (40.01) and fruit weight(29.34) and lowest genetic gain was recorded in fruit length (14.45). The HCA analysis based on the ward’s method distance computed clustered the strains into five homogenous groups. The results further revealed that the TSS content varied from 3.19-5.167. The pH varied from 6.33–6.73 among different ecotypes. The titratable acidity varied from 0.793 – 1.690 per cent among all the ecotypes, Total protein ranged from 6.56 to 11.41 per cent. The moisture content ranged from 77.33 to 91.00 per cent. The ascorbic acid contents 25.77-36.72 and the total sugar contents varied from1.270-1.993 percent ranged. The estimates of PCV and GCV were high which indicate that selection can be effective for the improvement of these traits as the variability between genotypes for these traits was highly heritable.

Redescription of <I>Acroclita vigescens</I> Meyrick (Tortricidae: Lepidoptera) Feeding on <I>Cordia myxa</I> Linnaeus (Boraginaceae) in India

The early stages (egg, larva, and pupae) and adult morphology of Acroclita vigescens Meyrick (1920) (Tortricidae: Olethreutinae: Eucosmini) are described and illustrated, along with the first description and illustration of the male genitalia. The species was discovered feeding on Cordia myxa Linnaeus (Boraginaceae) in New Delhi, India

Leaf essential oil analysis and anatomical study of Cordia myxa from Turkey

In this study, the leaf anatomical structure and essential oil chemical composition of Cordia myxa (Boraginaceae) growing in Turkey were investigated. In the anatomical study of C. myxa conducted by light microscopy, anomocytic stomata, cystoliths, cystolithic trichomes, glandular trichomes and calcium oxalate crystals were observed in the leaves, which are hypostomatic and bifacial. Long non-glandular trichomes, glandular trichomes and calcium oxalate crystals were found in the petiole. The major components of the essential oil were phytol (19.2%) and linalool (8.4%). These findings can be used as distinguishing elements in the diagnosis of Cordia myxa.

Electrochemical Evaluation of Folic Acid by Low Concentration of Methylene Blue Coated on a Green‐Synthesized ZnO Nanoparticles Suspension Solution

AbstractHere, we have reported an effective and simple electrochemical technique to determine folic acid (FA) in a colloidal suspension solution containing FeIII ion, methylene blue (MB) surface‐coated ZnO nanoparticles (MB@ZnONPs) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) (FeIII/MB@ZnONPs/SDS). MB, and ZnONPs were used as redox indicator and signal amplification element respectively. Low‐concentration of MB (2.5 μM) strongly is maintained at ZnONPs surface. SDS was used to improve the dispersion stability of the suspension. ZnONPs were synthesized through biological pathway using cordia myxa leaves extract. To investigate physicochemical properties of ZnONPs and MB@ZnONPs, fourier‐transform infrared spectra, nitrogen desorption/adsorption isotherms, field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy were used. Cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry showed the positive effect of FeIII ion, on the redox behavior of the suspension solution, probably due to inhibiting effect of this cation on the agglomeration of MB@ZnONPs/SDS suspension. Addition of FA to suspension solution, caused a sharp decrease in the peak current. Therefore, the colloidal suspension solution employed as an analytical probe for FA determination. The response of the probe showed a linear dependence on the logarithm of FA concentration in the range of 1.42 nm to 3.30 μM (I/μA=‐0.26 Log [FA]+0.03, R2=0.99). The calculated limit of detection was 0.98 nM.

High Prevalence of Pantoea in Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae): Vector of Citrus Huanglongbing Disease.

As an important insect vector, Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) transmits the pathogen 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus' (CLas) that is associated with citrus greening also known as Huanglongbing (HLB) disease. The bacterial endosymbionts have a potential role in shaping the host range of insect herbivores and their performance on different host plants, which might affect the endosymbiont distribution in insect populations. Here, we detected and characterized Pantoea endosymbiont in nymph and adult ACP specimens collected from Citrus reticulata Blanco and Cordia myxa L. plants. The phylogenetic tree constructed using endosymbiotic bacteria 16S ribosomal RNA sequences indicated that Pantoea sp. was closely related to Mixta calida, sharing about 98% identity and was grouped with other Mixta and Pantoea endosymbionts. Our findings showed 100% and 92.3% infection of Pantoea in adults while 61.5% and 90% infection of Pantoea in nymphs collected from C. reticulata and C. myxa plants, respectively. Understanding the interaction of endosymbiotic bacteria with ACP associated with host plants could be useful for developing an effective management strategy for both ACP and HLB disease.

A Validated HPLC Method for Quantitation of Rosmarinic Acid in a Polyherbal Syrup

Herbal medicines play a significant role in global healthcare systems. In this investigation, “Monzej soda” syrup was prepared by decocting a mixture containing Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Echium amoenum, Cordia myxa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ziziphus jujuba, Foeniculum vulgare, Fumaria parviflora, Adiantum capillus-veneris and Alhagi spp. Manna. along with glycerin, sodium benzoate and potacium sorbate. Physicochemical characteristics of the syrup were examined. Moreover, an HPLC technique was designed for analysis of rosmarinic acid in the syrup using C18 column, isocratic H3PO4 0.085% as the mobile phase, flow rate of 1 ml/min in λmax 330 nm. The method was validated for selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, LOD and LOQ. The herbal syrup was brown color with special taste and flavor. Density, pH, viscosity, dry residue, total phenolics, rosmarinic acid content were found 1.085 g/ml, 5.56, 5.35 cP, 15.22±0.43 %, 194 mg/100ml and 47.5 mg/100 ml, respectively. The syrup was stable during laboratory stability tests. The HPLC method was valid according to selectivity, linearity (72-110 µg/ml, r2: 0.9995), intra-day and inter-day precisions (RSD%˂2), accuracy (103.38-106.47%), LOD 1.6 µg/ml and LOQ 4.9 µg/ml. The syrup is a good candidate for pharmaceutical companies after pharmacological and clinical tests.

Detection of Wolbachia (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) and Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Rhizobiales: Rhizobiaceae) Associated With Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) Collected From Citrus reticulata (Sapindales: Rutaceae) and Alternate Host, Cordia myxa (Boraginales: Boraginaceae)

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae), is an important insect pest of the citrus crop worldwide. It vectors the pathogen 'Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus' (CLas) that causes a serious disease known as citrus greening. Here, we tested the infection frequency of Wolbachia and CLas from 100 D. citri individuals collected from two host plants belonging to families Rutaceae (Citrus reticulata Blanco) and Boraginaceae (Cordia myxa L.) using molecular methods. The following trend of endosymbionts infection in adult D. citri was found; 85.4% (35/41) by Wolbachia, and 19.5% (8/41) by CLas collected from C. reticulata plants and 65.4% (17/26) by Wolbachia, and 15.4% (4/26) by CLas in case of C. myxa plant. However, 61.5% (8/13) nymphs collected from C. reticulata and 20.0% (4/20) collected from C. myxa plants were infected by Wolbachia, while no nymph was infected by CLas collected from either host plants. Findings from this work represent the first report of CLas presence in D. citri feeding on C. myxa plants. By studying the presence of CLas with other endosymbiotic bacteria, future basic and applied research to develop control strategies can be prioritized.

Effects of Physical Parameters on Growth of Alternaria alternata causing Alternaria Leaf Spot of Lehsua

Lehsua (Cordia myxa Roxb.) also known as Lasoda, Gunda and Indian cherry, is a major fruit of the family Boraginaceae and grown in Rajasthan and other states of India. Alternaria leaf spot of lehsua, caused by Alternaria alternata is an important disease of this crop and day by day it is becoming severe in Rajasthan. The physiological study i.e. effect of temperature, RH, pH and effect of media on fungus (Alternaria alternata) was studied in vitro. The mycelial growth of Alternaria alternata was studied at different levels of temperature ranging from 15 oC to 35 oC. Maximum mycelial growth (87.51 mm) was recorded at 25 oC, while minimum (55.73 mm) was recorded at 15 oC. Maximum (88.71 mm) and minimum (49.00 mm) growth was recorded at 100 and 60 per cent level of RH, respectively; similarly maximum mycelial dry weight (847 mg) was recorded at pH 6.5 and minimum (300 mg) was at pH 8.0. The best growth supportive medium (87.88 mm dia. cololny) for the pathogen was potato dextrose agar medium followed by Czapeck’s Dox agar medium

Antidepressant Effects of a Reformulated Traditional Tablet

Background: Herbal medicines are preferred over chemical medications for a wide range of mental disorders such as depression. “Monzej-e soda” is a polyherbal combination that has been used in Iranian traditional medicine for several years to cure different mood disorders with similar signs to depression. Traditional formulations should be reformulated to reach pharmacopoeial standards as modern medicines. Objectives: In this study, “Monzej-e soda” was reformulated and its quality control and antidepressant evaluations were performed to present a standard and efficacious formulation. Methods: The aqueous extract of the mixture of Echium amoenum, Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Foeniculum vulgare, Ziziphus jujuba, Cordia myxa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Fumaria parviflora, Adiantum capillus-veneris, and Alhagi spp. manna was dried with the spray drying method. Dried extract and various ingredients at different ratios were used to produce 13 experimental tablet formulations and several pre- and post-formulation tests were performed to select the best formulation. The formulation was evaluated physico-chemically. The accelerated stability test was performed on the tablets, as well. Moreover, the antidepressant effect of tablets was evaluated by the forced swimming test. The serum levels of serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline (NA), and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) were measured in rats. Finally, histopathological examinations were performed on the liver, kidney, and spleen. Results: Among different formulations, the best one was a combination of dried extract (490 mg), maltodextrin (189 mg), colloidal silicon dioxide (21 mg), and croscarmellose sodium (2%). The hardness, weight, friability, disintegration time, dissolution percentage, and total phenolic content were 6.98 kg/cm2, 715.76 mg, 0.7%, 12.0 min, 97.46% in one hour, and 31.4 mg/tab, respectively. No significant changes were seen in the product in the accelerated stability test. The polyherbal tablet produced significant antidepressant effects through the decrease in immobility time, which was mediated via an increase in NA and 5-HT levels. It had no effect on the BDNF level. In addition, tablets had no toxic effects on the liver, kidney, and spleen. Conclusions: “Monzej-e soda” tablet can be considered a suitable antidepressant drug and used in patients after passing clinical trial tests.

Improving postharvest storage of fresh artichoke bottoms by an edible coating of Cordia myxa gum

Abstract This study aimed to prolong the shelf life of fresh-cut artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) bottoms under refrigerated conditions (2 °C and 95 % RH) for a period of 9 d. Fresh artichoke bottoms were subjected to an edible coating of Cordia myxa gum (Cg) supplemented with or without calcium dichloride (CaCl2) 1 %, or ascorbic acid (AsA) 1 %. The key postharvest quality parameters which were investigated were weight loss, browning, polyphenol oxidase activity (PPO), firmness, vitamin C, and total phenolic compounds (TPC). Moreover, the microbial load of artichoke bottoms during the storage was also measured which comprised of total aerobic mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, fungi, and E. coli. Results indicated that edible coating with Cg, when supplemented with CaCl2 or AsA, had a significant positive effect on weight loss, vitamin C, and TPC. Browning and PPO activities were significantly inhibited by Cg supplemented with AsA. The mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacterial count was significantly reduced in the presence of CaCl2 with or without Cg. For moulds and E. coli control, again Cg in combination with CaCl2 seems to be the most effective treatment. Hence, based on these findings, it can be recommended that postharvest coating Cg supplemented with CaCl2 could be a new application for delaying browning and extending the shelf-life of artichoke bottoms during refrigerated storage. Further research and development are required in commercial settings to test and scale the application of Cg in fresh-cut artichoke bottom industry.

Farmers' perception towards shelterbelts in hot arid regions of Rajasthan: An analysis by garrett's ranking technique

Shelterbelt plantations are one of the biggest ecofriendly technologies to address wind erosion, control sand movement and related problems in the arid areas, which cover 12 per cent of India and more than half of Rajasthan. However, the role of shelterbelts in arid agriculture is changing. A survey was undertaken to investigate the farmers' perception toward field shelterbelts/windbreaks and its impact in farmers' fields in the arid district of Bikaner, Rajasthan. Questionnaire, group discussion and observations were used for data collection. The respondents of the study were the farmers having already established shelterbelts in their farms. The study revealed that farmers were using windbreaks on agricultural lands mainly to protect crops from strong winds, provide shade to livestock, reduce crop damage from frost and cold winds, reduce soil erosion etc.; while the biggest challenge was the competition by trees to the crops growing below them. The farmers' preference for tree species was also noted to have changed over the years. Though old shelterbelts were mainly of Acacia tortilis, farmers now prefer Dalbergia sissoo (45 per cent prevalence), since it does not affect crop growth and for its economic timber value. Other species like Zizyphus sp., Eucalyptus sp., Cordia myxa etc. when used as shelterbelts provide fruits and fuelwood which provide additional income to farmers.

Adjustment of Mathematical Equations to Determine the Area Leaf of <i>Cordia myxa</i> L.

The objective of this study was to obtain mathematical equations through the leaf dimensions to estimate the area leaf of Cordia myxa L. 392 leaves of plants were collected, located in the municipality of Sao Mateus, North of the State of Espirito Santo, Brazil, 300 of which were used to adjust the equations and 92 for validation. Of all the leaves, the largest length (L) and maximum width (W) were measured, product of multiplying the length with the width (LW) and the real leaf area (RLA). Models equation first degree linear, quadratic and power were fitted, where RLA was the dependent variable as a function of L, W and LW as an independent variable. All equations were validated according to appropriate criterion. Thus, the power model ELA = 0.84(LW)0.9749, based on the product of multiplication of length with width (LW) is the most suitable for estimating the leaf area of Cordia myxa L.

Hypoglycemic, Antitussive and Analgesic Effects of Nanoparticles of Cordia myxa Fruits Extract

Background: Cordia myxa is a plant from Boraginaceae family and has many useful therapeutic properties. Aim of the study is to compare the pharmacological efficacy of Cordia myxa hydro-alcoholic extract (Bulk Extract [BE]) and nanoparticles of hydro-alcoholic extract (NPE) including hypoglycemic, antitussive, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. Methods: Hydro-alcoholic maceration extract of dry fruits was powdered to nanoparticle size by ball-milling technique. Hyperglycemia and cough were induced in mice by alloxan (120 mg/kg, i.p.) and ammonia, respectively. Inflammatory and analgesic evaluations of extracts were carried out with the formalin-induced edema in the mice paw and acetic acid tests. NPE and BE were administrated at single dose (750 mg/kg, i.p.). Positive control group was received dextromethorphan (10 mg/kg, orally) in cough and indomethacin (25 mg/kg, orally) for analgesic models. Blood glucose level, the number of coughs and writhes and duration of foot lickings were calculated. Results: The blood glucose did not statistically reduce by extracts. Both extracts could significantly inhibit the frequency of cough and dramatically reduce the duration of paw licking. NPE could significantly reduce writhes. Conclusion: We concluded that extracts had no hypoglycemic activity. Both extracts created therapeutic activities better than dextromethorphan. NPE exerted better anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity compared to BE.