Ethnomedicinal Use Research Articles

Antiaging Properties of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Ethanol Extract—Ex Vivo and In Vitro Studies

Species of the genus Kalanchoe have a long history of therapeutic use in ethnomedicine, linked to their remarkable medical properties. These species include Kalanchoe blossfeldiana succulents, which grow in tropical regions. Despite the great interest in this plant, there are no reports about its therapeutic effects on the skin. In this study, the antioxidant properties of K. blossfeldiana ethanol extracts and the skin permeation of a topical hydrogel containing the extract (HKB) were assessed. Additionally, the content of active compounds in the K. blossfeldiana extract was evaluated by UHPLC-MS and HPLC-UV. The extract was analyzed with three antioxidant assays: ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP. Furthermore, the antielastase and antihialuronidase properties of the tested extract were assessed. Ex vivo penetration studies were performed using the Franz diffusion cells. The estimation of the cytotoxicity of HKB was performed by using an MTT assay ((4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) on the human fibroblasts HFF-1. The results obtained show that the antioxidant properties of K. blossfeldiana extract were similar to those of ascorbic acid, while antielastase and antihialuronidase tests indicated the strong antiaging and anti-inflammatory activity of the extract (IC50 was 26.8 ± 0.13 and 77.31 ± 2.44 µg/mL, respectively). Moreover, active ingredients contained in K. blossfeldiana extract penetrated through the human skin and accumulated in it. The cytotoxicity test showed that HKB had no significant effect on human fibroblasts at a concentration up to 0.5%. In conclusion, the hydrogel containing the K. blossfeldiana extract can be considered as an interesting and new alternative to dermatologic and cosmetic preparations.

Evaluation of Total Flavonoids, Total Phenolics Content and in Vitro Antioxidant Activities of Extract of Platycerium bifurcatum Leaf: A Potential Antihypertensive Medicinal Plant

Plant bioactive compounds possess the potential to function as antioxidants, which makes interest in the use of ethnomedicine for treatment or prevention of diseases associated with oxidative stress to be growing. This study evaluated the flavonoid contents, total phenolics and in vitro antioxidant activity of Platycerium bifurcatum leaf extract. The free radical scavenging activity was determined using diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide assay, and the reducing power by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the total antioxidant capacity assays. The total phenolics content of the extract was 4.7 ± 0.56 mg GAE/g extract and flavonoid contents of the extract was 46.73 ± 2.03 mg QE/g extract. The extarct exhibited a dose dependent nitric oxide and DPPH free radical scavenging capacity, which showed a strong correlation between the antioxidant activity and the flavonoid contents and total phenolics. The appreciable amount of flavonoid contents, total phenolics and its strong antioxidant properties suggested that Platycerium bifurcatum is a promising source of novel lead antioxidants and could be utilized in the treatment of oxidative stress mediated cardiovascular disease like hypertensive and obesity

Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Evaluation of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees, from Nigeria

The medicinal plant, Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees, used in Nigeria's ethno-medicine, was investigated for its radical scavenging and antimicrobial properties, as well as its phytochemical composition, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) analysis. In vitro antioxidant activity of the methanol extract of the whole plant was tested through four different assays: DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and NOx. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of neophthadiene (29.42%), followed by ergost-5-en-3-ol (10.57%), and methyl sterate (7.29%) as the major compounds present in the methanol extract of Andrographis paniculata. The methanol extract showed promising antioxidant activity compared with the reference (ascorbic acid). It was observed that the activity was concentration dependent, and values of 86.12±0.03, 90.18±0.03, 80.20±0.04, and 92.15±0.06 were obtained for DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and NOx, respectively, under the same condition. All the tested bacteria (gram positive and gram negative) were inhibited by the methanol extract of Andrographis paniculata, except Proteus mirabilis, which showed a resistance at lower concentrations (0.25 mg/ml and 0.50 mg/ml). These findings suggest the bioactive potentials of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees, supporting its traditional use in Nigerian ethnomedicine and highlighting potential applications in pharmaceuticals.

Validation of ethnopharmacological findings of Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa through phytochemical screening and bioactivity assay

For centuries, medicinal plants have been integral to human health and well-being across the world. Aegle marmelos (Rutaceae), a medicinal plant indigenous to Nepal, holds substantial ethnomedicinal use among indigenous communities in South Asian countries. Present study aimed to explore the integration of contemporary scientific analysis of the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of A. marmelos leaf extracts harvested from Nepal with traditional ethnopharmacological knowledge. Leaf extracts of A. marmelos were subjected to phytochemical analysis utilizing mass spectrometry. The extracts underwent in vitro evaluation for antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and toxicity activities. Hexane fraction was found to possess volatile oils, polyphenols, and tannins, while other fractions were found to have alkaloids, terpenoids, coumarins, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and reducing sugars. Further analysis of the hexane fraction identified 21 compounds with over 90 % accuracy. The main phytoconstituents were 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid methyl ester (24.25 %), hexadecanoic acid (10.89 %), methylcyclohexane (8.39 %), methyl ester (4.26 %), and caryophyllene (4.10 %). The methanol extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Additionally, the methanol extract demonstrated pronounced cytotoxic effects against brine shrimp, with an LC50 value of 50.11 µg/mL. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl assay revealed both methanol and acetone extract to have notable antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 90.63 ± 1.47 µg/mL and 89.93 ± 2.52 µg/mL, respectively. Remarkably, the acetone extract displayed superior antidiabetic activity compared to acarbose, with an IC50 value of 13.50 ± 0.79 µg/mL. Our findings proves A. marmelos leaf extracts to harbor significant bioactive constituents, suggesting their potential as sources of natural compounds for applications in medicine and healthcare.

Unveiling the hidden diversity of Ganoderma (Ganodermataceae, Polyporales) in Sri Lanka: the first report of G. angustisporum, G. ellipsoideum, and G. orbiforme

ABSTRACT The genus Ganoderma holds profound importance in traditional medicine and modern scientific research. It is renowned for its medicinal properties and ecological significance, particularly in East Asian cultures, which have been revered for centuries. This mushroom has garnered significant attention in recent decades due to its ethnomedicinal use. The importance of Ganoderma genus in traditional medicine and scientific research cannot be overstated. Furthermore, extensive research has been conducted worldwide on the taxonomy and nomenclature of this fungus, although it remains controversial. However, research into the diversity and characterisation of Ganoderma species in Sri Lanka has been relatively limited, and the species diversity of Ganoderma is still not well known. Hence, we collected and identified Ganoderma species in the Sabaragamuwa and Western Provinces, Sri Lanka, aiming to increase research interest in this important mushroom genus. The collected specimens were identified based on comprehensive morphological analyses and rDNA-ITS sequence-based phylogeny. Three Ganoderma species, Ganoderma angustisporum J.H. Xing, B.K. Cui & Y.C. Dai, G. ellipsoideum Hapuar., T.C. Wen & K.D. Hyde, and G. orbiforme (Fr.) Ryvarden were identified in Sri Lanka for the first time. Additionally, a fungicolous strain of Trichoderma atroviride P. Karst. associated with the basidiocarps of G. angustisporum was identified for the first time.

Evaluation of Anti-Depressant Potential of Standardized Hydroethanolic Extract of S. barbata D. Don Using Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress Model

Background: S. barbata D. Don is a Chinese herb, that belongs to the family Lami-aceae. It has established traditional use in ethnomedicine for treating various ailments, includ-ing mood disorders and sleep disorders, which led to growing interest in exploring its neuro-logical potential, particularly as a potential anti-depressant agent. Aims: This study explores the anti-depressant potential of the HSBE utilizing a Chronic Un-predictable Mild Stress-induced depression model in mice. Additionally, the research aims to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action. Methods: Swiss albino mice were subjected to a 3-week CUMS paradigm and subsequently administered HSBE at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg via oral administration. The behavioral alterations were evaluated using the FST, TST, OFT, and SPT. Brain levels of serotonin, dopa-mine, and nor-epinephrine were estimated in different brain regions (cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus) to uncover the molecular mechanism. Additionally, assays for monoamine oxi-dase-A, monoamine oxidase-B, and antioxidant enzyme activities were conducted. Plasma ni-trite and corticosterone levels were also measured to get further insight into potential mecha-nisms underlying the anti-depressant effects of HSBE. Results: HSBE significantly ameliorated depressive-like behavior induced by CUMS para-digm, as evidenced by reduced immobility in FST and TST, increased locomotor activity in OFT, and improved sucrose preference in SPT. Neurochemical analysis revealed a significant increase in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels in the cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus of HSBE-treated mice, implying a potential regulation of monoaminergic neuro-transmitter levels. Moreover, biochemical analyses demonstrated a significant inhibition of both MAO-A and MAO-B activity, contributing to the increase of the brain levels of neuro-transmitters. The administration of HSBE also led to a significant enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced brain lipid peroxidation, indicating a pronounced antioxidant effect of HSBE. Furthermore, decreased plasma nitrite and corticosterone levels provided ad-ditional insights into HSBE's potential multi-targeted anti-depressant mechanism. Conclusion: This study indicates that HSBE exhibits robust anti-depressant properties, sup-ported by behavioral, neurochemical, and biochemical alterations. These findings underscore the therapeutic promise of HSBE as a natural intervention for depressive disorders, warranting further clinical exploration.

In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Hemolytic and Cytotoxic Effects of Traditional Mexican Medicinal Plant Extracts on Human Erythrocytes and Cell Cultures.

Plant extracts of fifteen plants of ethnomedicinal use in Mexico were analyzed to provide scientific knowledge of their medicinal properties through the evaluation of different biological activities such as anti-hemolytic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects in normal cells. Therefore, methanolic extracts were obtained from each of the plants by the Soxhlet extraction. The hemolytic activity in human erythrocytes was evaluated, as was their potential to protect the erythrocyte membrane against the 2,2'-azobis (2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. Finally, the toxicity of the extracts in normal cell cultures of African green monkey kidney cells (Vero) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction method. Most of the extracts showed low hemolytic activity and high anti-hemolytic activity as well as high selectivity indices (SI) and antioxidant effects. Extracts of H. inuloides, J. dioica, and J. spicigera induced cell proliferation of the Vero cells. K. daigremontiana, A. adstringens, S. mexicanum, J. spicigera, L. tridentata, and M. tenuiflora extracts showed PBMC cell proliferation. In the present study, it was observed that the evaluated extracts did not present hemolytic activity, and some presented low toxicity when Vero and PBMC cell cultures were exposed. In conclusion, traditionally used plants possess beneficial health properties, and it is hoped that this study will serve as a basis for understanding the biological effects of traditionally used plants and may complement future studies.

Assessment of the Nutritional and Ethno-medicinal Uses, Domestication, Production and Conservation of Senecio biafrae Among Farmers in Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria

Assessment of the Nutritional and Ethno-medicinal Uses, Domestication, Production and Conservation of Senecio biafrae Among Farmers in Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria

Extraction of anti-hyperglycaemic bioactive compounds from Phyllanthus niruri L. through solvent mixture design: In vitro and in vivo evaluation

BackgroundSpecies within Phyllanthus genus exhibit a diverse range of experimentally validated pharmacological activities. Notably, Phyllanthus niruri Linneo(Phyllanthaceae), commonly referred to as stonebreaker, is a native Central and South American species with a rich history of use in traditional ethnomedicine for treating gastrointestinal and renal disorders. PurposeThe aim of this study was to investigate the application of various solvent mixtures to optimize the extraction of anti-hyperglycemic secondary metabolites from P. niruri. MethodsTo optimize the extraction of anti-hyperglycemic compounds from P. niruri, a solvent mixture design strategy was employed. The optimized extracts were subjected to chemical characterization using spectrophotometric methods and HPLC-DAD analysis. Also, the influence of edaphoclimatic conditions on the composition of extracts was investigated. The anti-hyperglycaemic potential of the extracts was evaluated through both in vitro and in vivo assays. The in vitro studies included enzyme inhibition assays targeting α-glucosidase from two sources (yeast and pig). For in vivo studies, a rat model with oral starch overload was used to confirm the anti-hyperglycaemic activity of the extracts. ResultsAn optimal solvent mixture (70 % methanol and 30 % ethyl acetate) was found as effective for extracting compounds with anti-hyperglycemic potential from P. niruri. All the extracts obtained using this solvent inhibited both, yeast and pig α-glucosidase, with greater selectivity for inhibiting the yeast-derived enzyme. Extracts from aerial parts (AP) exhibited the strongest inhibitory activity. These extracts contained phenolic compounds, specifically flavonoids, but no condensed tannins were detected. Chromatographic analysis of profile revealed a major peak consistent with corilagin. In vivo studies using a dose of 500 mg kg-1 demonstrated that this extract significantly reduced blood sugar levels after starch overload in rats. ConclusionThis study demonstrates the importance of selecting appropriate solvent mixtures to extract bioactive compounds with anti-hyperglycemic properties from P. niruri. Our findings support the traditional use of this plant as a anti-hyperglycaemic agent in ethnomedicine.

Ethnomedicinal Uses of Plant Species in Panchase Protected Forests (A Case Study including the Kaski, Parbat & Syangja Districts of Nepal)

Ethnomedicinal plants, which have been utilized by indigenous communities in Nepal for centuries, hold promise for treating various ailments. Globally, medicinal plants are integral to healthcare systems, with Nepal renowned for its rich biodiversity and indigenous knowledge. This manuscript explores the ethno-medicinal practices within Nepal's Panchase protected forest, aiming to validate traditional remedies and contribute to healthcare improvement. Through a comprehensive study involving reconnaissance surveys, interviews, and data analysis, 103 ethno-medicinal plants from 58 families were documented, with Asteraceae being dominant. Various plant parts were utilized for treating 57 ailments, with leaves being most common. Gastrointestinal issues were prevalent, with plants such as Gheu kumari and Harro being frequently employed. Additionally, plants such as Dhursul and Ghodtapre were used for fever and migraine, while Khole Saag and Pani Amala addressed blood pressure and diabetes concerns. This study focuses on the importance of traditional medicine in rural healthcare and underscores the need for its preservation. Conservation efforts and intergenerational knowledge transfer initiatives are vital to safeguarding indigenous wisdom. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies are recommended to validate traditional knowledge scientifically. The commercial cultivation of medicinal plants could alleviate pressure on natural habitats and promote sustainable healthcare practices. This research contributes to the documentation of valuable ethno-medicinal knowledge, emphasizing its potential for socioeconomic development and healthcare enhancement in Nepal's rural communities.

An Overview of Traditional Medicinal Plants Used in Treating Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) with Emphasis on Mechanisms of Action

Cancer is an incurable fatal disease wreaking havoc on the population of countries either developed or developing. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most frequent type of cancer having a poor prognosis. Globally, HCC management and treatment intervention using medicinal plants from generation to generation is rapidly increasing and remains an area of promising research. This review provided insight into medicinal plants' ethnomedicinal use, photochemistry and mechanisms of action on HCC exhibiting anti-cancer potentials subjected to scientific investigations. Furthermore, clinical, toxicity studies and detailed mechanisms of action would provide an understanding of the development of lead compounds in drug discovery and development for HCC.

In-silico approaches for discrimination of Curcuma species and their closely related family using the novel technique of DNA Barcoding

In this study, we have discriminated and identified the Genus of Curcuma and related species Zingiberaceae using rbcL and trnL DNA barcode primers. Curcuma genus related to the family Zingiberaceae comprises a significant number of medicinal plants renowned for their use in ethnomedicine, playing a pivotal role in the medical, health, and pharmaceutical sectors. Traditionally, morphological methods alone have proven insufficient for accurately identifying species within this family. However, DNA barcoding technology provides a contemporary solution by utilizing plant DNA sequences for species identification, thus enabling effective conservation efforts. We used DNA barcoding techniques and for analysis used the Maximum Parsimony tree in MEGA 11 with the Kimura 2-parameter (KP model) to analyse the genetic relationships between species. Out of the 13 accessions that were studied, 12 accessions belonged to Curcuma caesia and 1 accession belonged to Curcuma aeruginosa. The genetic relationships observed were correlated with the geographical distributions of these species. It was determined that C. aeruginosa is a mutated species of C. caesia. Additionally, 1 specimen of Alpinia galanga, a plant species related to the Zingiberaceae. Barcode primer trnL primer demonstrated a 92% efficiency during the investigation. The rbcL and trnL loci are recommended as potential barcode markers for discriminating between different plant species. This study developed a comprehensive DNA barcoding database that can confidently differentiate between species by combining morphological and molecular data. This database has the potential to identify adulteration in herbal products, combat illegal trade and adulteration of plant species, and assist in germplasm conservation efforts.

Ethnomedicinal use of plant roots: A case study of the Juang tribe of eastern India

Ethnomedicinal use of plant roots: A case study of the Juang tribe of eastern India

Unveiling the Antianemic Activity, Physicochemical Aspects, Antioxidant Properties, and Mineral Profile of Petroselinum crispum L.

Anemia is a widespread global health concern necessitating effective, accessible, and natural interventions. The potential of medicinal plants to address anemia has garnered significant interest. Among these plants, parsley (Petroselinum crispum (Petroselinum crispum) L.) stands out as an edible and herbal-based option for combating anemia. Aim of the study: This study investigated the potential of P. crispum (PC-Ext) as an emerging antianemic product, focusing on its physicochemical attributes, antioxidant properties, and mineral profile. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the phenolic compounds in P. crispum were conducted by using high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). Anemia was induced in rats by intravenous injections of phenylhydrazine, administered at a dose of 40 mg/kg for two consecutive days. The antianemic activity of PC-Ext was assessed at a dose of 500 mg/kg twice daily for 5 weeks by estimating blood parameters, such as serum iron and ferritin. Additionally, the osmotic fragility test measured the capacity of red blood cells to withstand osmotic shock of various concentrations of saline. Aqueous extract of P. crispum was rich in phytochemical compounds, including syringic acid, quercetin, catechin, gallic acid, and luteolin. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of P. crispum in ameliorating phenylhydrazine-induced reductions in red blood cell count (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (HCT) levels. Consequently, PC-Ext exhibits significant activity against phenylhydrazine-induced anemia in rats, as demonstrated by its ability to prevent hemolysis. Iron estimation within PC-Ext further confirms its utility in addressing both iron deficiency and ferritin-deficiency anemia. Therefore, PC exhibits a favorable effect against both types of anemia, iron deficiency, and hemolysis. The results of this study provide robust scientific validation for ethnomedicinal use and the potential utility of P. crispum, positioning it as a promising source for future pharmaceutical development.

TGR5, GLP-1, and GIP expression in diabetic Wistar rats in response to Ficus exasperata vahl leaf extract

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus remains a critical global health issue, driving the need for continual exploration of new therapeutic strategies. Ficus exasperata Vahl, renowned for its extensive ethnomedicinal use, holds promise as a potential remedy for diabetes. However, its precise mechanisms of action in managing diabetes remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Ficus exasperata Vahl leaf extract (MEFE) on the expression of TGR5, GLP-1, and GIP in diabetic Wistar rats. MethodUsing methanol extraction, Ficus exasperata was processed and characterized through GC–MS analysis. Twenty rats were divided into four groups: diabetic untreated, normal control, diabetes treated with MEFE (200 mg/kg), and diabetes treated with insulin (0.3 units). Diabetes induction utilized alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), followed by daily treatments for 28 days. Blood glucose and insulin levels were assessed via glucose oxidase and ELISA, while antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, catalase, GPx) and total protein were measured using randox kits. Gene expression of GLP-1, TGR5, and GIP was quantified through qPCR. In silico docking of MEFE compounds to the P2Y1 receptor was conducted using Cavity-detection guided blind-docking software. Pancreatic islet histology was examined with hematoxylin and eosin stains, and statistical significance was determined with GraphPad Prism (p < 0.05). ResultThe GC–MS analysis identified 23 constituents in MEFE, with kaur-16-ene exhibiting the highest binding affinity (-8.2 Kcal) against the P2Y1 receptor. Significant reductions in blood glucose levels were observed in the MEFE-treated diabetic group, accompanied by increased expression of insulin, TGR5, GLP-1, GIP, SOD, catalase, and GPx compared to the untreated diabetic group. Additionally, MEFE treatment facilitated the regeneration of pancreatic islet cells. ConclusionThese findings suggest that MEFE exerts antioxidative effects and stimulates genes crucial for controlling blood glucose levels in diabetic rats.

Ethnomedicinal use of plants by Ain Chkef (North Central Morocco) community to boost immunity and overcome SARS COV-2 infection

Ethnomedicinal use of plants by Ain Chkef (North Central Morocco) community to boost immunity and overcome SARS COV-2 infection

Plant use knowledge and quantitative analysis of some medicinal plants from Ondo State, Southwestern Nigeria

This study was conducted to investigate the plants used medicinally in rural and semi-urban areas of Ondo State, Nigeria with a view to generating a comprehensive list of therapeutic plants and evaluating their importance quantitatively. Surveys were conducted in some communities in Ondo State between November 2021 and November 2022 with focus on different uses of plants. Structured questionnaires were administered to plant collectors and users. Data were analyzed based on some ethnobotanical indices. In total, 179 medicinal plants belonging to 66 plant families were recorded. The family Fabaceae had the highest (16.20%) representative species while shrubs formed the most used plant form (32%). The highest Frequency of Citation (FC, 49) was obtained for Azadirachta indica. The most valuable plant was A. indica (0.17) based on the Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and highest (1.67) Use Value (UV). The Consensus Index and Fidelity Level (FL) were also found to be highest with A. indica (50% and 83.33% respectively) while Fabaceae had the highest Family Importance Value (FIV, 10.98%). The ethnomedicinal use of A. indica, V. amygdalina etc. in the treatment of malaria/fever has been further confirmed in this study. The family Fabaceae has been shown to contain plant species that are important to the informants. The use of quantitative techniques in ethnomedicinal studies allows the identification of commonly used plants and their recommendation for pharmacological research to confirm traditional claims. There is need to properly educate plant users in the communities on the sustainable use of plant resources.

Unlocking Bioactive Potential: A Comparative Analysis of Solvent Extraction on Phytochemicals and Antimicrobial Efficacy in &lt;i&gt;Eupatorium glandulosum&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;Eupatorium odoratum&lt;/i&gt;

The purpose of this work was to explore and compare the phytochemical constitution, vitamin composition, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial potential of leaf extracts from two Ethnomedicinal plants, Eupatorium glandulosum and Eupatorium odoratum, belonging to family Asteraceae collected from the Eastern Himalayan Darjeeling region and the plains of Jhargram in West Bengal, India. Four distinct solvents viz., 80 % aqueous ethanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform and n-hexane were used to prepare the leaf extracts. The identification and quantification of phytochemicals and water-soluble vitamins was conducted through HPLC. To evaluate antioxidant potential, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays were performed. The antimicrobial activity was investigated against Streptocococcal strains (S. oralis, S. mutans, S. pyogenes). Both the plants exhibited a diverse array of identified phytochemicals. E. glandulosum contained five while E. odoratum presented an even richer composition of seven water-soluble vitamins. Remarkably, E. odoratum displayed the highest scavenging activity against DPPH radicals (70.08%), and notable reducing potential (10.74 AAE mg/gm). In contrast, E. glandulosum showcased pronounced scavenging potential against ABTS radicals (74.32%). Additionally, the ethyl acetate extract from E. odoratum displayed robust antimicrobial efficacy against, S. oralis, inducing an inhibition zone of 16.00 mm ± 2.82 while E. glandulosum exhibited an inhibition zone of 11.50 mm ± 0.707. These findings validate the therapeutic potential and ethnomedicinal use of these plants.

Comprehensive analysis of different solvent extracts of Ferula communis L. fruit reveals phenolic compounds and their biological properties via in vitro and in silico assays

Although giant fennel is recognized as a “superfood” rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant activity, research into the antibacterial properties of its fruits has been relatively limited, compared to studies involving the root and aerial parts of the plant. In this study, seven solvents—acetone, methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, water, and hexane—were used to extract the chemical constituents of the fruit of giant fennel (Ferula communis), a species of flowering plant in the carrot family Apiaceae. Specific attributes of these extracts were investigated using in silico simulations and in vitro bioassays. High-performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode-array detector (HPLC–DAD) identified 15 compounds in giant fennel extract, with p-coumaric acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid being dominant. Among the solvents tested, ethanol demonstrated superior antioxidant activity and phenolic and flavonoid contents. F. communis extracts showed advanced inhibition of gram-negative pathogens (Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis) and variable antifungal activity against tested strains. Molecular docking simulations assessed the antioxidative, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of F. communis, facilitating innovative therapeutic development through predicted compound–protein interactions. In conclusion, the results validate the ethnomedicinal use and potential of F. communis. This highlights its significance in natural product research and ethnopharmacology.

Antiprotozoal Activity of Plants Used in the Management of Sleeping Sickness in Angola and Bioactivity-Guided Fractionation of Brasenia schreberi J.F.Gmel and Nymphaea lotus L. Active against T. b. rhodesiense.

Folk medicine is widely used in Angola, even for human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) in spite of the fact that the reference treatment is available for free. Aiming to validate herbal remedies in use, we selected nine medicinal plants and assessed their antitrypanosomal activity. A total of 122 extracts were prepared using different plant parts and solvents. A total of 15 extracts from seven different plants exhibited in vitro activity (>70% at 20 µg/mL) against Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense bloodstream forms. The dichloromethane extract of Nymphaea lotus (leaves and leaflets) and the ethanolic extract of Brasenia schreberi (leaves) had IC50 values ≤ 10 µg/mL. These two aquatic plants are of particular interest. They are being co-applied in the form of a decoction of leaves because they are considered by local healers as male and female of the same species, the ethnotaxon "longa dia simbi". Bioassay-guided fractionation led to the identification of eight active molecules: gallic acid (IC50 0.5 µg/mL), methyl gallate (IC50 1.1 µg/mL), 2,3,4,6-tetragalloyl-glucopyranoside, ethyl gallate (IC50 0.5 µg/mL), 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloyl-β-glucopyranoside (IC50 20 µg/mL), gossypetin-7-O-β-glucopyranoside (IC50 5.5 µg/mL), and hypolaetin-7-O-glucoside (IC50 5.7 µg/mL) in B. schreberi, and 5-[(8Z,11Z,14Z)-heptadeca-8,11,14-trienyl] resorcinol (IC50 5.3 µg/mL) not described to date in N. lotus. Five of these active constituents were detected in the traditional preparation. This work provides the first evidence for the ethnomedicinal use of these plants in the management of sleeping sickness in Angola.