Cissus populnea represents a species of climbing shrubs within the family Vitaceae, and is referred to as ‘oro okoho’ by the Igala tribe of Central Nigeria. This plant serves as a multifaceted medicinal resource, found extensively throughout tropical Africa. The extract derived from its stem bark has attracted considerable attention owing to its possible therapeutic benefits. This research offers an in-depth comparative examination of the phytochemical, proximate, and nutritive characteristics of Cissus populnea stem bark extracts with differing peel content, illuminating its prospective uses in the fields of Medicine and Nutrition. The extracts from the stem bark were meticulously prepared utilizing samples categorized as stem with peel, stem without peel, and peel alone. Systematic quantitative phytochemical screening and analysis were performed to discern and measure the bioactive compounds inherent in each extract. Furthermore, an analysis of proximate composition was conducted to evaluate the nutritional content present in each sample. The results demonstrated notable variations (p ≤ 0.05) in the phytochemical composition, proximate composition, and vitamin contents of the extract.

Deverra scoparia (D. scoparia) Coss. & Durieu is an endemic plant from North Africa that is commonly utilized in folk medicine for diabetes treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo antidiabetic effects of D. scoparia in both normal and STZ-induced diabetic rats. The investigation focused on the impact of an aqueous extract of D. scoparia administered at a dosage of 40 mg/kg on glycemia and lipid profiles in these rats. Additionally, the study included assessments of glycogen content in the liver and skeletal muscles (EDL and soleus), as well as a phytochemical analysis. Both single and repeated oral doses of the aqueous extract (40 mg/kg) resulted in a significant decrease in blood glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats. Moreover, this extract improved glucose tolerance and enhanced hepatic glycogen content in the diabetic subjects. Notably, the plant exhibited a rich profile of certain phytochemicals, particularly phenolic acids and flavonoids. The findings of this study clearly indicate that the aqueous extract of D. scoparia possesses substantial antidiabetic activity.

Jatropha curcas (J. curcas), a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, is a tropical medicinal plant that has been used in African Traditional Medicine for the treatment of asthma and related allergic airway diseases. This study investigated the ameliorative effects of Jatropha curcas leaf extract on ovalbumin-induced allergic airway inflammation in Wistar rats. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extract was carried out using standard procedures, and oral median lethal dose (LD50) was determined using Lorke’s method. Allergic airway inflammation was induced in Wistar rats via ovalbumin sensitization and challenge over 28 days. Rats were divided into six groups: normal control, ovalbumin control, three groups treated with J. curcas extract at 35, 70, and 140 mg/kg, and a positive control receiving prednisolone (10 mg/kg). Post-treatment, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was analyzed for leukocytes and cytokines, and lung tissues were examined histologically. Phytochemical analysis identified flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, saponins, glycosides, steroids, and anthraquinones. Acute oral toxicity test revealed an LD50 exceeding 5000 mg/kg, indicating that the extract is relatively safe. Anti-inflammatory activity evaluation showed that J. curcas at 140 mg/kg dose significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced eosinophil counts and IL-13 levels, which was comparable to that of prednisolone group. the extract also showed a dose-dependent reduction in IL-4 and IL-5 levels. Histopathological examination revealed protection against alveolar necrosis and tracheal hyperplasia at higher doses. Overall, the extract demonstrated notable anti-inflammatory and airway-protective effects, suggesting its potential as a complementary therapy for allergic airway diseases. Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Metabolomic insights into anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and antinociceptive properties of Ilex paraguariensis: A UPLC-MS/MS analysis of phytochemicals and metabolic pathways.

Dual COX/5-LOX Inhibition by Isorhamnetin-3-O-Glucoside from Anthyllis cytisoides: An Integrated Chemical-Enzymatic-Computational Study.

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for treating problems related to the digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and respiratory systems. The major constituents found in fennel seed extracts are trans-anethole (68.6%-75.0%), fenchone (8.40%-14.7%), and methyl chavicol (5.09%-9.10%). However, before introducing this plant into the human environment, it is essential to understand its toxicological properties. In this study, we investigated the acute and sub-acute toxicity of methanolic extracts of F. vulgare. A phytochemical screening was performed to identify the major chemical constituents of the plant. For the acute toxicity study, female Wistar rats received a single dose of the methanolic extract of F. vulgare at doses of 1000, 2000, 3000, and 5000 mg/kg for 14 days. In the sub-acute toxicity study, the methanolic extract of F. vulgare was administered orally daily at doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg for 28 days. Hematological, biochemical, and histological changes were evaluated. Phytochemical tests were also performed. The phytochemical analysis showed that the methanolic extract of F. vulgare is rich in flavonoids, catechic, gallic tannins, and total polyphenols. Toxicological tests showed no animal deaths, suggesting that the LD50 was greater than 5000 mg/kg. In the sub-acute oral toxicity study, no significant differences were observed in body weight, food consumption, or water intake. Additionally, there were no significant changes in hematological and biochemical parameters or differences in the macroscopic and microscopic examination of organs. Therefore, this study concludes that the methanolic extract of F. vulgare, at the doses tested, is considered non-toxic under the conditions evaluated.

Cumambrin A from Chrysanthemum boreale attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress through TRIF-dependent signaling inhibition and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation.

Bioactive components of Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract enhance immunity, health, and production parameters in broilers.

Comparative multitarget vaso-protective effects of brown and black Vigna unguiculata (L.) walp extracts: Evidence of stronger modulation of sickle cell pathophysiology by the brown variety.

In Ayurveda, therapeutic success depends on four essential factors, among which Dravya (medicine) holds prime importance after the physician. Traditionally, medicinal plants were collected directly by Vaidyas; however, current practices largely depend on market-sourced raw materials. Maricha (Piper nigrum Linn.) is an extensively used drug in Ayurvedic formulations, and due to increasing demand, modern cultivation techniques such as grafting are being adopted over conventional methods. Grafting is known to enhance yield, improve disease resistance, and reduce harvesting time. The present study aims to compare the pharmacognostic, physicochemical, phytochemical, and chemical profiles of non-grafted and grafted Maricha. Fresh seeds of Piper nigrum cultivated through non-grafted and grafted methods were collected and shade-dried following Good Cultivation Practices (GCP). Both samples were evaluated through pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical analyses, along with chromatographic profiling using the RP-UPLC method. The results revealed that grafted plants exhibited superior morphological characteristics, including thicker stems, larger leaves, and bigger fruits. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of similar constituents such as saponins, tannins, alkaloids, volatile oils, and starch in both samples, while physicochemical parameters remained within standard limits. RP-UPLC analysis indicated a higher piperine content in grafted Maricha (4.57%) compared to non-grafted samples (3.57%). The study concludes that grafting positively influences the morphological and chemical attributes of Maricha, supporting its use for improved quality and efficacy of Ayurvedic formulations and emphasizing the need for further research on genetic and environmental influences.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, particularly among females, and can be correlated with Pittaja Mutrakruchra in Ayurveda, which presents with symptoms such as Peeta mutrata, Sadaha mutrata, Saruja mutrata, and Sarakta mutrata. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn.) is a well-documented herb with Mutrala properties and is widely used in urinary disorders. Hamsapadi (Adiantum lunulatum Burm.) is described in classical texts as Pittashamaka and Raktaprasadaka, suggesting its therapeutic potential in similar conditions, though it lacks sufficient clinical evaluation. Hence, the present study aimed to comparatively evaluate the efficacy of Gokshura and Hamsapadi in the management of Pittaja Mutrakruchra. A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 40 subjects presenting with lakshanas of Pittaja Mutrakruchra. The subjects were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (n = 20) received Gokshura moola churna and Group B (n = 20) received Hamsapadi panchanga churna for a period of 15 days. Subjective and objective parameters were assessed before and after treatment and statistically analyzed. Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in subjective and objective parameters; however, Group A demonstrated comparatively better therapeutic outcomes. Phytochemical analysis of both trial drugs revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and other plant metabolites. It can be concluded that both Gokshura moola churna and Hamsapadi panchanga churna are effective in the management of Pittaja Mutrakruchra, with Gokshura showing superior efficacy

Background: Antimicrobial resistance is one of the major challenges in healthcare, leading to more severe infections, higher mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Therefore, exploring new alternatives, such as plant extracts with antimicrobial properties helps to reduce bacterial resistance. Artemisia annua L., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., and Paronychia argentea Lam. are traditionally used for their biological properties, including antimicrobial activity. However, scientific evidence regarding their antibacterial effects against clinically important bacteria remains limited. Methods: Extracts were obtained from the mentioned plants and phytochemically characterized by GC/MS. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of fatty acids, phenolic compounds, aliphatic compounds, and terpenoids. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the diffusion method with a modified Kirby-Bauer technique and the microdilution method employing the massive plate sealing drop approach. Results: All extracts exhibited bacterial inhibition, with H. sabdariffa L. showing the strongest activity against E. coli (256 mg/mL), K. pneumoniae (256 mg/mL), P. aeruginosa (128 mg/mL), Salmonella sp. (128 mg/mL), and S. aureus (64 mg/mL). Conclusions: Hydroethanolic extracts of A. annua L., H. sabdariffa L., and P. argentea Lam. exhibit antibacterial activity against clinically relevant bacteria and represent promising candidates for future preclinical studies.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40203-026-00590-y.

The use of computers in chromatographic techniques has transformed phytochemical analysis in last decades, particularly in the area of computational intelligence. Several phytochemicals, including carotenoids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, and phytosterols, are vital to the plant and have numerous benefits, including regulating DNA metabolism, exhibiting antioxidant properties, and inducing cell death. Despite its importance, researching phytochemicals presents challenges, particularly in the areas of phenolic extraction, natural ingredient separation, and herbal medicine adulteration. Merging computational intelligence with traditional chromatographic techniques enhances phytochemical analysis by increasing the precision of both qualitative and quantitative compound property predictions. Furthermore to making it easier to identify and characterize phytochemicals, this merging allow a thorough comprehension of them. However, traditional methods provide an excellent foundation to support the analytical process, whereas computational methods provide more accurate and reliable prediction models. However, there are several challenges in developing efficient chromatographic separation and analysis methods due to the complexity and diversity of botanical extracts. The study explores the transformation of chromatographic and computational methods in phytochemical analysis, emphasizing their synergistic potential in improving compound identification. It further discuss the of integration of the both the methods and future prospects for optimizing the phytochemicals profiling for the nutraceutical application.

Wild herbal teas are a valuable source of antioxidants and play a significant role in the development of functional beverages. However, scientific validation of these teas remains limited in biodiversity-rich western Himalayas. This study documents the ethnomedicinal uses of 15 wild herbal tea plants from District Poonch, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and evaluates three culturally dominant species, such as Bergenia ciliata, Achillia millefolium, and Swertia alata, for total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant, and antibacterial potential. The cultural significance of wild herbal teas was measured using indices such as use value (UV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), and relative importance (RI), indicating that B. ciliata, (A) millefolium, and S. alata are culturally significant species. Phytochemical analyses showed high phenolic and flavonoid contents, notably higher in (B) ciliata (TPC: 428.2 ± 3.33µg GAE/mL; TFC: 327.7 ± 3.05µg QE/mL). Antioxidant activity revealed potent radical scavenging, with B. ciliata exhibiting the lowest IC₅₀ value (48.0µg/mL). Antibacterial assays confirmed significant activity of B. ciliata against Staphylococcus aureus (20.33 ± 0.33mm), exceeding that of ampicillin (17.66 ± 0.88mm). Correlation and multivariate analyses revealed substantial links between phenolic/flavonoid content and bioactivity. Overall, results scientifically validate local traditional knowledge, highlight the therapeutic potential of wild herbal teas, and emphasize their value as accessible, bioactive resources for community health and future natural product research.

Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth is a tree largely present in South America, notably in the Cerrado savannah. The species is known for the quality of its dense and resistant wood, used in construction and furnishing. B. virgilioides is also a medicinal plant used, from leaves to roots, for the treatment of various human pathologies (pharyngitis, bronchitis, healing wounds, diabetes, and arthritis). The present review provides an analysis of the scientific literature pertaining to B. virgilioides, with a focus on pharmacological activities. Aqueous and organic extracts have been used to treat inflammatory pathologies and to combat infectious diseases caused by microorganisms and parasites. All phytochemicals at the origin of the bioactivities of extracts have been identified, including 37 terpenoids, 8 alkaloids, 21 flavonoids and 13 other products. All natural products are discussed, with a focus on a dozen compounds with well-documented pharmacological properties and/or a known mechanism of action. Key products include ormosanine (alkaloid), vouacapane (diterpenoid), lupeol (terpenoid), isoquercetin (flavonoid), isocordoin (chalcone), and little-known specific products (bowdichine and bowdenol). The botanical and phytochemical analysis shed light on this valuable Fabaceae species with the objective to promote its preservation and cultivation, as well as further pharmacological investigations aimed at rationalizing its long-established ethnobotanical use.

Antiulcer and laxative potential of polysaccharides from the ripe seed pulp of Delonix regia: A preliminary study.

Water Mimosa var. CAU-Ekaithabi: An agronomically superior, nutrient-dense, bioactive-rich aquatic vegetable with emerging potential in functional foods.

Psidium cattleyanum Sabine (strawberry guava, araçá) is an ethnomedicinal plant with reputed health benefits; however, its potential for treating skin disorders remains underexplored. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile of P. cattleyanum leaves from Cabo Verde and evaluate their bioactivity relevant to skin health. Phytochemical analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and spectrophotometric assays. Key biological activities were assessed in vitro, including antioxidant capacity (free radical scavenging assays), anti-aging enzyme inhibition (collagenase, elastase, and tyrosinase), and antibacterial activity against skin pathogens (agar diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration, and combination studies with standard antibiotics). Cytotoxicity was evaluated using Vero cells (MTT assay). Additionally, a topical cream containing the leaf extract was formulated and subjected to physicochemical stability and sensory testing. LC-MS revealed a rich polyphenolic composition in the leaf extract, including abundant phenolic acids (gallic and ellagic acid derivatives) and flavonoid glycosides. The extract exhibited a high total phenolic content and strong antioxidant activity in DPPH/ABTS assays. It showed potent inhibition of collagenase, elastase, and tyrosinase, indicating an anti-aging effect against wrinkle formation and hyperpigmentation. The extract also demonstrated broad antimicrobial efficacy against skin-associated bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Cutibacterium acnes, with no antagonism and partial synergism observed when combined with certain antibiotics. The P. cattleyanum extract was successfully incorporated into a cream formulation that remained physically and chemically stable (no phase separation, consistent droplet size, and pH) over 90 days, with good homogeneity and acceptable sensory characteristics (neutral odor, smooth texture, and good spreadability). P. cattleyanum leaves from Cabo Verde are a rich source of bioactive compounds with multifunctional dermatological benefits. This study demonstrates that the P. cattleyanum leaf extract exhibits significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-aging activities in vitro, supporting its potential use as a natural ingredient for skin care.

Aims: This study investigated the protective effects of Ocimum gratissimum (OG) leaf extract against ibuprofen-induced gastrointestinal and renal toxicity in rats. Study Design: Experimental animal study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Animal House Facility of the Department of Human Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria. Methodology: Fresh Ocimum gratissimum leaves were extracted and subjected to phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity testing. Renal toxicity was induced using ibuprofen. Fifty rats were divided into five groups (n = 10): normal control, ibuprofen control (200 mg/kg), and three treatment groups receiving ibuprofen plus OG leaf extract at 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight. Renal function indices and antioxidant parameters were assessed after 28 days. Gastrointestinal studies included charcoal meal motility, gastric acid secretion, extractible mucus weight, and ulcer score evaluation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed high flavonoid (17.48±0.27 mg/100 g) and phenolic (12.42±0.10 mg/100 g) contents, with moderate levels of saponins and alkaloids. The extract showed a high safety margin with an LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg, while ibuprofen had an LD₅₀ of 707.11 mg/kg. Ibuprofen significantly elevated serum urea and creatinine and reduced antioxidant enzyme activities while increasing lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05). Co-treatment with OG extract significantly normalized renal function parameters, improved antioxidant status, and reduced lipid peroxidation. OG extract also significantly improved gastrointestinal motility, increased gastric mucus, reduced gastric acidity, and lowered ulcer scores in ibuprofen-treated rats (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract confers significant renoprotective and gastroprotective effects against ibuprofen-induced toxicity, primarily through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, supporting its potential therapeutic application in the management of NSAID-associated gastrointestinal and renal damage.