Acacia Senegal Research Articles

Exudados gomosos de Prosopis spp. localizados en Ecuador: potencial prebióticos en la alimentación animal

Fiber-rich plant foods have been tested as prebiotics (adjuvant to the growth and activity of the gut microbiota) in animal production, due to their high inulin and fiber content, in order to reduce the use of antibiotics and microbial resistance. The gummy exudate produced by Acacia senegal is a source of nutritional fiber that has been tested as a prebiotic in animal feed. The objective of this study was to analyze the potential use of novel sources of Prosopis spp. gummy exudates as prebiotics in animals of zootechnical interest based on a systematic literature review in indexed journals of the use of gum-hydrocolloids as an alternative supplement in animal feed. The scientific articles reviewed show the benefits of using the gummy exudate of Acacia senegal as a prebiotic in the production of broilers, turkeys, rabbits, and pigs. The gums obtained from Prosopis spp. present physicochemical and nutritional characteristics analogous to those published for gum arabic. Therefore, based on the bibliographic reports consulted, the gummy exudate obtained from Prosopis spp trees located in Ecuador could present a nutritional profile with excellent fiber content, oligosaccharides, essential minerals, and phenolic compounds, which would enhance its use as a promising prebiotic in animal feed, improving the function of the intestinal barrier, favoring the growth of beneficial microbiota, significantly reducing the populations of pathogenic bacteria, optimizing animal welfare and production. Keywords: dietary fiber, hydrocolloids, animal production, alternative growth promoters.

Comparison of the antibacterial activity of six medicinal plants, sodium hypochlorite, and chlorhexidine against enterococcus faecalis (In vitro study)

Enterococcus faecalis is a gram-positive, facultative anaerobic bacterium recognized for its resistance to various antimicrobial agents. This organism is associated with the failure of endodontic treatments, even when potent antimicrobial irrigants are employed. Numerous medicinal plants have demonstrated antimicrobial properties that could be potentially effective against this bacterium.To evaluate the antibacterial properties of six medicinal plants in comparison to sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine against E. faecalis.Antibacterial susceptibility tests against E. faecalis (ATCC 29212) were performed for 200 mg/ml ethanolic extracts of Acacia Senegal, Capparis decidua, Capparis micracantha, Acacia nilotica/ Adansonia, Dobera glabra, and Moringa oleifera by Agar Disc Diffusion method. Chlorhexidine 0.2% and Sodium hypochlorite 1% were used as positive controls, and ethanol 20% as a negative control. The diameters of the inhibition zones were measured. Acacia nilotica/adansonii leaves showed the largest inhibition zone diameter against E. faecalis. It displayed a significantly greater inhibitory effect against E. faecalis than Acacia Senegal (p-value =0.005), Capparis decidua (p-value =0.02), Capparis micracantha branches (p-value =0.000), Dobera glabra leaves (p-value =0.008), and Moringa olifera leaves (p-value =0.000).Acacia nilotica leaves displayed a similar inhibition zone diameter against E. faecalis as chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2%, but it showed no statistical significance. Acacia nilotica leaves (L) and pods (P), as well as Dobera glabra branches (B), displayed a larger inhibition zone diameter against E. faecalis than Sodium hypochlorite 1%, but with no statistical significance. The leaves of Acacia nilotica exhibit the most potent antibacterial properties against E. faecalis when compared to other plants parts. They outperform the antibacterial effectiveness of 1% sodium hypochlorite and demonstrate a similar antibacterial impact to that of 0.2% chlorhexidine. Therefore, Acacia nilotica leaves could serve as an ideal irrigant potentially substituting the chemical options.

Climatic Variations Influenced Distribution and Productivity of Different Agroforestry Systems in Rajasthan, India

Farmers of Rajasthan conserve and promote scattered trees and shrubs growing on farmlands to dealwith climatic adversities. These woody perennials sustain livelihoods by providing economic, social, and environmental benefits. Tree-based farming systems were surveyed in all 10 agroclimatic zones (ACZs) of Rajasthan for screening best models and suggests for further improvement. Trees were assessed for density, and growth parameters in 0.5 ha plots, whereas agricultural crops yields were estimated in1 m2 plots laid at 1 m from tree trunk, canopy edge and 5 m away from trees canopy (control). There were 107 tree-crop combinations involving 14 trees and 21 crop species. P. cineraria-based systems were dominant in the arid western, whereas A. nilotica dominated in semi-arid to dry sub-humidregions. Average tree density was 11.7 trees ha-1 ranging from 3.3 tree ha-1 in ACZ-IIIb to 23.6 tree ha-1 in ACZ-IIa. Senegalia senegal showed highest (27.6 tree ha−1) density. Height and canopy diameter were 11.73 m and 10.35 m respectively, in irrigated ACZ- IIIb and decreased to 6.53 m and 5.02 m in ACZ-IIb, respectively. Both height and density decreased with the decrease in rainfall from south-east to north-west. D. sissoo and T. grandis were taller, S. oleoides was thicker and Z. mauritiana was shorter and thinner than other species. Grain yields varied from 0.66 in ACZ-Ia to 1.85 Mg ha-1 in ACZ-IIIa, but exhibited low yield as compared to control. Crop yield reduced by 22.9-47.3% between ACZs, 20.3-56.5% between agroforestry systems, and 15.9-79.8% between intercrops highlighting the interactive effects of these components. S. senegal, T. undulata, P. cineraria, Z. mauritiana, S. oleoides, V. tortilis and P. juliflora based systems showed 29.1-54.9% low, whereas V. nilotica, D. sissoo, A. indica, T. grandis and V. leucophloea based systems showed 4.5-51.7% high yield over the state average. The yield of groundnut (IIIa), cotton (IVa), barley (IIIa), jowar (IVa), maize (IVa), paddy (V), pearl millet (IIIa) and wheat (V) with A. nilotica was above state average

Therapeutic Potential of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal) in Chronic Kidney Disease Management: A Narrative Review

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses significant health challenges globally, particularly in regions like the Middle East. This review evaluates the potential efficacy and safety of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal), a traditional remedy, in managing CKD. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases including PubMed and Scopus, focusing on the biochemical, physiological, and therapeutic impacts of Gum Arabic on renal health. Gum Arabic has demonstrated antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit renal function, as shown in animal studies. Clinical trials suggest improvements in renal biomarkers, though these are limited by scope and methodology. While promising, the clinical application of Gum Arabic requires cautious interpretation due to gaps in understanding its mechanisms of action. Gum Arabic shows potential as an adjunct treatment for CKD, reflecting both traditional use and preliminary scientific evidence. Future research should focus on its long-term efficacy, safety, and underlying biochemical pathways to better guide its therapeutic use.

The biological activities and phytochemical investigations of acacia Senegal's aqueous extracts of gum Arabic

The biological activities and phytochemical investigations of acacia Senegal's aqueous extracts of gum Arabic

Facile synthesis and optimization of Acacia senegal gum hydrogel for kinetically treated adsorptive removal of targeted industrial effluents

This context summarizes a detail on the fabrication of Acacia senegal Gum Hydrogel (ASGh) within well-engineered microemulsion, and thereafter chemical modification for environmental remediation. In brief, Divinylsulfone was used to crosslink polymeric chains and produce ASGh in ˂50 μm size within the reverse-microemulsion of Natrium-bis-(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate in gasoline. ASGh were subjected to chemical modification via versatile diethylenetriamine to produce m-[ASGh] for adsorptive removal of methyl orange (MO), eosin Y (EY) and congo red (CR) from waste-water. ASGh and m-[ASGh] were characterized through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and zeta potential measurements. For instance, FT-IR spectra depicted new bands upon Diethylenetriamine modification. The zeta potential measurements confirm a positively charged surface of m-[ASGh] upon Diethylenetriamine addition. Interestingly, 0.05 g m-[ASGh] demonstrated 91.0, 84.1, and 73.0 % removal efficiency towards MO, EY and CR, respectively in 2 h equilibrium time. Langmuir, Freundlich and modified-Freundlich isotherms were applied to further delineate adsorption data. Modified-Freundlich model depicted comparatively more agreeable fit, and delivered R2 value nearer to unity. Further, 143 mg·g−1, 130 mg·g−1 and, 116 mg·g−1 maximum adsorption capacity (QM) was represented by m-[ASGh] towards MO, EY and CR, respectively in 2 h. Interestingly, real water sample were tested whereby, the QM against MO, EY and CR was 146 mg·g−1, 132 mg·g−1 and, 111 mg·g−1, respectively in 2 h equilibrium time. To conclude, m-[ASGh] could be treated as decolorizing agent in real waste-water polluted through negatively charged organic pollutants, particularly MO.

Phytosociological Study of Tree Species of Dabla Beed Area, Churu District Rajasthan, India

This study presents a comprehensive phytosociological analysis of tree species in the Dabla beed area of Churu District, Rajasthan, India, exploring seasonal variations in species composition, diversity, dominance, and evenness. The research was conducted across three seasons: rainy, winter, and summer, utilizing quadrat sampling methods to assess various ecological parameters. The findings reveal distinct seasonal shifts in the dominance and distribution of key species. During the rainy season, species such as Acacia senegal and Acacia tortilis exhibit high dominance and contribute to elevated species diversity and evenness. In winter, Maytenus emarginata and Acacia senegal emerge as prominent species, maintaining moderate diversity with increased dominance. The summer season sees a notable decline in diversity and evenness, accompanied by heightened dominance, with Calotropis procera and Clerodendrum phlomidis being particularly influential. These seasonal dynamics underscore the importance of adaptive management and conservation strategies to maintain the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the tree community in this arid region. The study highlights the critical need for targeted conservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of the diverse and dynamic tree populations in the Dabla beed area.

Effect of Dietary Inclusion of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal) and Lactobacillus acidophilus or their Combination on Broiler Chickens

Effect of Dietary Inclusion of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal) and Lactobacillus acidophilus or their Combination on Broiler Chickens

Gum Arabic Increases Phagocytosis of Escherichia coli by Blood Leukocytes of Young and Old Healthy Volunteers.

Gum arabic, a polysaccharide exudate from Acacia senegal (L.) Willdenow trees, has already been used by African native people in natural medicine. Using whole-blood samples from young (20-35 years) and older (>80 years) healthy volunteers (each group n = 10), the effect of an aqueous solution of GA on phagocytosis of Escherichia coli was examined with a gentamicin protection assay. Whole-blood samples of each volunteer were stimulated with GA and as a control with CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (Toll-like receptor -9 agonists) for 2 h, then co-incubated with E. coli for 30 min and thereafter treated with gentamicin for up to 240 min to kill extracellular bacteria. Then, whole-blood cells were lysed with distilled water, and colony-forming units were counted by quantitative plating. Cytokine enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of TNF-α and IL-6 was performed using the blood supernatant. The GA concentration tested (20 mg/mL) did not affect the viability of eukaryotic cells. Phagocytosis of E. coli by whole-blood leukocytes derived from young (p = 0.008) and older (p = 0.004) healthy volunteers was increased by 120.8% (young) and 39.2% (old) after stimulation with GA. In contrast, CpG only stimulated the bacterial phagocytosis by cells derived from young volunteers (p = 0.004). Stimulation of whole blood with GA increased the intracellular killing of E. coli in young (p = 0.045) and older volunteers (p = 0.008) and induced a TNF-α release in whole blood collected from older volunteers but not from younger ones (p = 0.008). These data encourage the isolation of active compounds of GA and the initiation of clinical trials addressing the preventive effect of GA on bacterial infections.

Response of Species to the Impact of Climate Change in the Gum Arabic Belt, Sudan: A Case Study in Acacia senegal

Sustainable management strategies of trees are important for indigenous agroforestry plant species, such as Acacia. Senegal (A. Senegal), due to the impacts of rapid population growth, land use and climate change. The objective of this investigation was to predict the spatio-temporal distribution of A.senegal in the Gum Arabic belt in Sudan in current (1985–2000) and future climate scenarios (2021–2100). Bioclimatic data was used for modeling purposes utilizing Maxent, with the assessment of model precision conducted through the utilization of the Area Under the Curve (AUC) and shown a high goodness-of-it (AUC=0.905±0.003 ). Significant differences were shown in species distribution between current and future periods under selected Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) of SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5, climate scenario. Our findings indicated that the main predictors influence the distribution of the species were precipitation of wettest quarter and maximum temperature of warmest month. Under the current potential distribution (25.4%), it is projected that Acacia Senegal would expand 36.2%-87.7% (SSP2-4.5) and 38.9-42.5% (SSP5-8.5). It is expected that A.cacia Senegal will create new environments suitable for it due to expected climate changes. Hence, the research necessitates the formulation of a strategic plan aimed to rehabilitation plantations of Acacia senegal and cultivation these species within existing and prospective habitats conducive to their existence.

Analytical data of Acacia nilotica var. Nilotica gum

This study aimed to characterize the exudate gum from Acacia nilotica var. nilotica in Sudan and compare its physicochemical properties to Acacia seyal var. seyal and Acacia senegal var. senegal (gum Arabic). Samples were collected from six different states in Sudan over three seasons. The gum had a moisture content of 10.50%, ash content of 1.86%, pH value of 5.19, specific optical rotation of +94.70, intrinsic viscosity of 10.44 cm3 g-1, nitrogen content of 0.024%, protein content of 0.16%, acid equivalent weight of 1907.82, and total uronic acid content of 10.18%. Sugar content analysis revealed arabinose (41.20%), galactose (17.43%), and rhamnose (10.68%). Potassium was the predominant cation, followed by calcium, magnesium, sodium, lead, and iron. Acacia nilotica was classified as part of the Gummeferae series and exhibited a positive specific optical rotation. The Number average molecular weight (Mn) was estimated using osmometric measurements and gel permeation chromatography. The gum had a higher molecular weight and lower intrinsic viscosity compared to gum Arabic, suggesting a spheroidal shape of molecule. Amino acid analysis showed similarities with gum Arabic, with hydroxyproline and serine as principal amino acids. Variations in cationic composition were attributed to differences in soil type among collection locations. KEY WORDS: Physicochemical characterization, Acacia senegal var. senegal gum, Acacia seyal var. seyal gum, Acacia nilotica var. nilotica gum, gammiferae Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(4), 839-852. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i4.2

Investigate optical and structural properties with molecular behavior of AgI and silver oxide nanoparticles prepared by green synthesis from the Acacia Senegal plant and achieving biocompatibility

Investigate optical and structural properties with molecular behavior of AgI and silver oxide nanoparticles prepared by green synthesis from the Acacia Senegal plant and achieving biocompatibility

Desert legumes as sustainable sources of proteins and bioactive peptides: Technological insights into functional food development from underutilized plants

This review explores the trends in consumption of dietary protein from (animal-based sources) and plant-based alternatives, particularly focusing on conventional as well as underutilized desert legumes. Acknowledging the essential role of proteins in cellular homeostasis, this report also underscores the risks associated with prolonged animal protein consumption. The rising popularity of plant-based proteins from legumes and their potential to address the global issue of malnutrition, along with the nutritional significance of legume-based proteins and bioactive peptides, is discussed in detail. Underutilized desert legumes, as sustainable protein sources, have the potential to offer promising health benefits and industrial applications like plant-based cheese and meat production. We have highlighted a few desert legumes- Prosopis cineraria, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Acacia senegal, Vigna aconitifolia and their potential to ensure global food security in the face of climate change. The underexplored legumes, often neglected due to limited knowledge about their benefits, hold resilient solutions to the growing demand for high quality protein. The review compares the protein quality of representative legumes, both conventional and overlooked, and highlights the need for the integration of desert legumes into mainstream agriculture and the technological challenges for functional food production. Several advantages of desert legumes are compromised by the presence of anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) in them causing sensory limitations and consumer unacceptability. These problems can be addressed by exploring physical processing techniques, microbial fermentation, and extrusion to eradicate ANFs. Application of novel technologies like 3-D printing and their potential for protein and peptide product development from underutilized desert legumes have also been emphasized.

Insight into Cu (II) adsorption on pyrochar and hydrochar resultant from Acacia Senegal waste for wastewater decontamination

Acacia Senegal waste (ASW) is remaining biomass following gum Arabic harvesting and has no use mentioned in the literature as of yet. This study aims to convert ASW into valuable biochar via two comparative thermal and hydrothermal techniques, which include pyrochar ASW at 300 °C (PC ASW300) and hydrochar ASW at 180 °C (HC ASW180), respectively, for Cu (II) adsorption from aqueous solutions. SEM-EDS, FTIR, XRD, and XPS were used to characterize the biochar. Adsorption performance was studied as a function of pH, contact time, and adsorbent concentration. Adsorption kinetics were best fit for a pseudo-second-order model. And thermodynamics studies revealed that Cu (II) on biochar was endothermic, spontaneous, and best fitted to the Langmuir isotherm model. Pyrochar adsorption capacity (31.93 mg g−1) was seven times that of hydrochar (5.45 mg g−1). ASW treated with phosphorus (PC H3PO4 and HC H3PO4) prior to the carbonization altered the pore structure and surface functional groups as well (O–P–O, P–CH3, and P–OH) of biochar. It was found that treating with phosphorous acid increased adsorption capacity to 141.7 mg g−1 and 22.24 mg g−1 for PC H3PO4 and HC H3PO4, respectively. The surface functional groups of biochar resulted from lignin, alkaloids, and polysaccharides combined with Cu (II) during the adsorption process via surface complexation accompanied by π-electron interaction and Cu (II) reduction. These findings shed light on the ASW biochar potential as a new green cost-effective adsorbent and drew an insightful understanding of Cu (II) adsorption performance and mechanism. It is concluded that ASW-derived biochar is highly effective and a promising alternative for Cu (II) decontamination from wastewater.

Effect of pruning intensity and picking on Acacia senegal for gum arabic yield in Northern Jigawa State, Nigeria

Climate significantly impacts dryland trees, influencing their adaptation, survival, production, and role in the ecosystem. Acacia senegal is a valuable dryland tree planted for gum arabic production and ecological benefits. However, gum arabic production has declined due to the adverse effects of climate and improper management. Thus, silvicultural intervention such as pruning is essential for the health, growth, and gum yield of A. senegal. This study investigates the effects of different pruning intensities and pickings on gum arabic yield at Madana and Garin-ladan in the Gumel district of northern Jigawa State, Nigeria. The experiment involved five levels of pruning intensity and eight pickings, conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The gum yield was collected, dried, and weighed, and ANOVA was performed using Statistix 10.0 software, with Shapiro-Wilk and Turkey tests for data normality and mean comparison. The result showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in gum yield among the pruning intensities for most of the pickings at the two sites. The 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 3rd, 5th, 8th pickings are significantly different except 4th, 7th, 8th; and 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and 7th at Madana and Garin-ladan respectively. The highest gum yield is 52.5a, 46.7a, 50.1a, and 43.5a g/picking, respectively. The lowest is 0.8a and 0.9a g/picking, respectively. Pruning intensity significantly differs (p< 0.05) in total gum yield per tree. Pruning intensities B3 and B4 demonstrated the highest total gum yield (251.8a and 147.6a g/tree) at both sites, respectively. At the same time, B0 exhibited the lowest gum arabic yield (97.2c and 38.5b g/tree) at both locations. These findings prove that pruning intensities B3 and B4 are the most effective in promoting gum yield and may enhance the gum productivity of A. senegal trees in northern Jigawa State.

Effect of Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal) on Growth Performance, Carcass Quality and Health of Clarias gariepinus Juveniles

The effect of Gum Arabic (GA) on growth, carcass quality, blood parameters, gut morphometry, and organ histology of African catfish Clarias gariepinus was studied. Five isonitrogenous diets with inclusion levels of GA at 0 g/100 g (GA0; control), 5 g/100 g (GA5), 10 g/100 g (GA10), 15 g/100 g (GA15), and 20 g/100 g (GA20) were formulated in a 40% crude protein diet. Juveniles of C. gariepinus with average weight (7.35±0.48 g/fish) were stocked at 13 fish/25 L of water for 12 weeks in a completely randomized design and fed at 3% body weight daily. Growth indices showed GA10 improved the mean weight gain (69.88±8.89 g) and specific growth rate (2.76±0.14 %/day) while at (GA15); (GA20) growth was depressed. Carcass quality revealed dietary levels were superior to control with GA10 significantly different (p &lt; 0.05) amongst treatments in protein and fat content. Hematological profile showed variations; erythrocyte indices compared to control, while plasma chemistry of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase showed no difference (p &gt; 0.05). Gut morphometrics varied with no particular pattern. At inclusion above GA5 the gill, liver, and kidney were affected histologically with no changes in the intestines of all treatments. Diet supplemented with gum arabic at 10 g/100 g improved indices of performance of C. gariepinus juveniles in this study.

Total Microbiological and Chemical Quality of Dry Fermented Mare’s Milk Sumbawa Using Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal) as Encapsulating Agent

Dry fermented mare's milk Sumbawa by applying gum arabic (Acacia senegal) as an encapsulant agent and can improve the functionality of protein peptides to avoid their damage during process of making milk powder and can be fully absorbed by the body. This study aimed to improve the level and quality of dry fermented mare's milk Sumbawa by applying gum arabic (Acacia senegal) as an encapsulant agent by a vacuum foam drying oven method. The method used in this research was a laboratory experimental using a completely randomized design consisting of 5 treatments and 4 replications, which is T1 (20% with encapsulation gum arabic), T2 (24% with encapsulation gum arabic), T3 (28% with encapsulation gum arabic), and T4 (32% with encapsulation gum arabic). The difference in the concentration ratio of encapsulation gum arabic in dry fermented mare’s milk Sumbawa gave a very significant difference (P&lt;0.01) in total plate count (T4 : 6.09 x 105 CFU/ml), potential of hydrogen (T4 : 4.60), total titration lactic acid (T4 : 1.27%), and total protein (3.72%). This analysis has shown that encapsulation can be achieved by adding gum arabic to the preparation of dry fermented mare’s milk Sumbawa.

INFLUENCED OF SEED WEIGHT ON EARLY GROWTH OF Acacia senegal (Linn) Willd (Gum Arabic) SEEDLINGS

Seed weight has enormous influence on the germination rate and growth performance of many species which necessary is for productivity and sustainability. Study was carried out to examine the effects of seed weight on germination and early growth of Acacia senegal (Linn) Willd (Gum Arabic) seedlings. The work was conducted in the Forestry nursery of Department of Forestry and Wildlife, Federal University Dutse, Jigawa state. Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was employed with three (3) treatments of twenty replications (20) making sixty samplings. The seed weights used were classified into three groups: Heavy seeds (1g and above), Medium seeds (0.5-0.9 g) and Light seeds (0.1- 0.4g). Germination counts and early growth parameters were assessed. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at 0.05 probability level and descriptive statistics such as bar chart was used. It is interesting to note that the study found that heavy seeds (1g) had an earlier germination rate and better early growth performance compared to intermediate-weight (0.5 - 0.9g) and light-weight (0.4 - 0.1g) seeds. The heavy seeds showed the best overall performance, according to the results. Heavy seeds showed the best performance. Therefore, heavy weight seeds were recommended for planting, plantation establishment and nursery studies.

Measurement of antioxidant synergy between phenolic bioactives in traditional food combinations (legume/non-legume/fruit) of (semi) arid regions: insights into the development of sustainable functional foods

Numerous under-researched edible plants are present in the desert regions of the world. These plants could be potential candidates to ensure food security and provide valuable bioactive compounds through diet. In general, the bioactives present in food manifest synergistic, additive, or antagonistic interactions. The current study investigates such interactions between food combinations traditionally consumed in (semi) arid regions. Five edible plants (representing three food categories) were selected: Prosopis cineraria and Acacia senegal (legume), Capparis decidua and Cordia dichotoma (non-legume), and Mangifera indica (fruit), in which the first four are largely underutilized. The antioxidant capacities of individual plant extracts and their binary mixtures were analyzed by DPPH free radical scavenging and FRAP assays. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were also determined. The highest antioxidant activity was obtained for Prosopis cineraria extract (EC50—1.24 ± 0.02 mg/ml, FRAP value—380.58 ± 11.17 μM/g), while Mangifera indica exhibited the lowest antioxidant activity (EC50—2.54 ± 0.05 mg/ml, FRAP value—48.91 ± 4.34 μM/g). Binary mixture of Prosopis cineraria (legume) and Mangifera indica (fruit) manifested maximum synergy (experimental EC50—0.89 ± 0.01 mg/ml, theoretical EC50—3.79 ± 0.05 mg/ml). Correlation studies [Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) and Principal component analysis (PCA)] showed a high correlation of TFC with DPPH and TPC with FRAP values. LC–MS analysis of methanolic plant extracts detected 43 phenolic compounds (including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and isoflavonoids), possibly responsible for the observed food synergy. For edible plants of the (semi) arid zones, this study is a first-of-its-kind and provides scientific validation to the traditional wisdom of consuming these foods together. Such indigenous food combinations derived from desert flora could offer valuable insights into development of sustainable functional foods and nutraceuticals.Graphical

Potential Distribution Projections for Senegalia senegal (L.) Britton under Climate Change Scenarios

The gum acacia Senegalia senegal (L.) Britton (Fabales: Fabaceae) is a drought-tolerant plant belonging to the genus Acacia of the Leguminosae family, possessing significant economic and ecological value. Despite its importance, there is a knowledge gap regarding the potential impact of climate change on the distribution of S. senegal, crucial for the conservation of plant resources and optimizing its use in introductory silviculture. In this study, we selected 23 environmental variables and utilized the optimized maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model to analyze the key environmental factors affecting the distribution of S. senegal worldwide and simulate the current and future distribution range of S. senegal in Pakistan under the SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5 climate change scenarios. The results highlight key environmental factors influencing the distribution of S. senegal, including BIO3 (isothermally), BIO4 (coefficient of seasonal variation of temperature), BIO11 (mean temperature of the coldest season), and BIO12 (annual precipitation). Regions with higher and less fluctuating temperatures exhibit a higher potential for S. senegal distribution. Currently, suitable habitats of S. senegal are concentrated in the southern region of Pakistan, covering provinces such as Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan, with highly suitable habitats accounting for 6.06% of the total area. Under the current climatic conditions, this study identifies the spatial patterns of suitable habitats and their concentration in specific regions. With climate change, a notable expansion of suitable habitats towards higher latitudes is observed, with the most significant expansion under the extremely severe climate change scenario (SSP5-8.5), reaching 223.45% of the current level. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the dynamics of S. senegal distribution under climate change and offer valuable insights into the long-term introduction of S. senegal for afforestation and soil conservation in Pakistan. This study provides theoretical support for the sustainable development of the local ecosystem and socio-economy, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to adapt to changing climatic conditions.