Spondias Pinnata Research Articles

Novel drug delivery materials: Chitosan polymers conjugated with Spondias pinnata phytocompounds for enhanced anti‐microbial and anti‐cancer properties

AbstractThe current study aimed to investigate the drug delivery potential of chitosan‐conjugated Spondias pinnata phytocompounds for anticancer and antibacterial applications. The phytochemical composition of the aqueous extract of S. pinnata plant leaves revealed seven major compounds, including stearic acid, 2H‐Indol‐2‐one, beta amyrin, oleic acid, octadecanoic acid, 7‐hexadecenoic acid, and phytol. Additionally, five minor compounds were identified through GC–MS analysis. SEM analysis of chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata phytocompounds revealed amorphous particles. This demonstrates the attainment of optimized larger crystallites, which differ in size and shape extensively. The antioxidant potential of both the chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata phytocompounds and S. pinnata leaf extracts was evaluated via DPPH and ABTS assays, and the results revealed that the chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata phytocompounds exhibited significant scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 18.20 and 33.15 μg/mL, respectively. Chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata phytocompounds also demonstrated antibacterial activity against four clinically significant infections, with zones of inhibition ranging from 16 ± 0.07, 19 ± 0.10, 17 ± 0.09, and 19 ± 0.11 mm against Escherichia coli (MTCC 452), Salmonella typhi (MTCC 733), Klebsiella pneumonia (MTCC 39), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 1688), respectively. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of the chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata phytocompounds was assessed against A549 lung cancer cells, and the results revealed a significant reduction in cell viability (33.85) at higher concentrations of 150 μg/mL. The IC50 values of S. pinnata leaf extract (149.2 mg/mL) and chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata (126.4 mg/mL) toward A549 lung cancer cells were recorded. Overall, the results of the present study highlight the therapeutic applications of chitosan‐conjugated S. pinnata phytocompounds, particularly in the context of their anticancer and antibacterial activities.

Effects of dietary supplementation of spray dried hog plum (Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz) fruit powder on growth, digestive enzyme activity, and skin mucus immune parameters of climbing perch (Anabas testudineus (Bloch, 1972)

The effects of dietary supplementation of spray-dried hog plum (Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz) fruit powder (SPP) on growth, digestive enzyme activity, and skin mucus immune parameters of climbing perch (Anabas testudineus (Bloch, 1972)) were examined. The fish (N = 330; 2.00±0.1 g) were assigned to five groups in triplicates. They were fed different SPP levels at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 g/kg diet for eight weeks. Flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, steroids, glycosides, and glycosides were detected in SPP. The SPP containing diet significantly improved growth parameters (P < 0.05) without a negative effect on the survival rate (P > 0.05). Intestinosomatic and hepatosomatic indices significantly declined in the fish fed SPP added diets (P < 0.05). There were significant elevations in digestive enzyme activities, amylase, protease, lipase, trypsin, pepsin, and esterase, in the tested fish compared to the control fish (P < 0.05). Additionally, fish fed SPP containing diets showed a significant enhancement of total protein, immunoglobulin M, lysozyme, antiprotease, alkaline phosphatase, and esterase in the skin mucus compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Significantly higher levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and total antioxidant capacity were detected in fish fed SPP containing diets compared to the control (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that dietary SPP supplementation can effectively enhance fish growth, digestive enzyme activities, and mucosal immune parameters in the climbing perch. The suitable level of SPP observed in this present study was 13.00 – 15.88 g/kg diet.

Host range and feeding preference of Basilepta fulvicornis (Jacoby) adult beetles in the Cardamom Hill Reserves, Kerala, India

Host range and feeding behavior of Basilepta fulvicornis (Jacoby) adult beetles were studied on different plant species (25 species from 18 genera and 13 families) in the Cardamom Hill Reserves, Kerala, India. Five new host plants of B. fulvicornis adult beetles, viz., Artocarpus hirsutus Lam., Ficus auriculata Lour., Anacardium occidentale L., Spondias mangifera Willd., and Terminalia chebula Retz., are reported for the first time. Non-preference and non-feeding of B. fulvicornis adults on the larval host, Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton was confirmed. Based on the feeding area, A. hirstus, F. auriculata, Mangifera indica and Artocarpus heterophyllus are the most preferred host species followed by Terminalia catappa, A. occidentale, S. mangifera, and T. chebula. Feeding preference and survival of adult beetles of B. fulvicornis on different tree species are indicated with a probable ecofriendly pest management solution.

Antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects of green synthesized silver/silver chloride nanoparticles using Spondias pinnata bark extract

In this study, the green synthesis of silver/silver chloride nanoparticles (Ag/AgCl-NPs) using Spondias pinnata bark extract was confirmed by the color changes and a sharp absorbance peak at 415 nm determined by a UV-visible spectrometer. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize the synthesized Ag/AgCl-NPs. The disc diffusion method was applied to screen the antibacterial activity of synthesized Ag/AgCl-NPs against four pathogenic bacteria such as Shigella boydii, Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, and Staphylococcus aureus. The highest antibacterial activity with the maximum zone of growth inhibition was observed against Shigella boydii. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was recorded as 3 µg/ml for S. boydii and S. aureus, 6 µg/ml for E. coli, and 12 µg/ml for S. dysenteriae. Synthesized Ag/AgCl-NPs displayed comparatively higher scavenging activity for ABTS (IC50 = 29.87±1.36 µg/ml) than DPPH (IC50 = 27.66±4.54 µg/ml). Additionally, synthesized Ag/AgCl-NPs inhibited 76.83±0.60 % Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, 78.43±1.97 % human breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines, and 68.44±1.95 % human lung cancer (A549) cell lines growth at the concentration of 128 µg/ml. Next, synthesized Ag/AgCl-NPs showed potent toxicity against brine shrimp nauplii with an LC50 value of about 30 µg/ml.

EFFECT OF KECEMCEM (Spondias pinnata) EXTRACT ON ANGIOGENESIS OF GINGIVA AFTER CURETASE OF WISTAR RATS

Background: Curettage procedure cause wounds that require adjuvant therapy. One of adjuvant therapies used is hyaluronic acid. However, recently, several studies have focused on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of various natural products such as the bark of kecemcem tree (Spondias pinnata) which has protective effect against oxidative and inflammatory changes occurs during development of mucositis. Based on this, researchers were interested examining effect of giving kecemcem bark extract on formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) in gingiva after curettage. Materials and Methods: Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups, negative control, positive control, and treatment group. Previously, rats had induced periodontal pockets by tying silk threads on mandibular incisors and after that they were curettage using a gracey curette. Negative control group was given CMC-Na, positive control group was given hyaluronic acid and treatment group was given 70% kecemcem bark extract gel. Rats were sacrificed on day 3, 5 and 7 and then histological preparations were made. Results and discussion: Average number of new blood vessels in the treatment group was higher than control group and positive control with two-way ANOVA test showed that average number of new blood vessels in each group had significant difference (p<0.05). This supports hypothesis that compounds found in the bark of the kecemcem tree such as beta-sitosterol, phenols, and flavonoids have effect on increasing angiogenesis in gingival wounds after curettage of Wistar rats. Conclusion: 70% kecemcem bark extract gel has effect on increasing angiogenesis in gingival wounds after curettage of Wistar rats.

Antibacterial activity of Spondias pinnata leaf extract on the in-vitro growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria

Background: Infectious diseases caused by both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria infection continue to be a significant cause of health problems. Over the past decades, there has been a growing interest in Spondias pinnata research. It has also been demonstrated that the essential oil and leaf extract of Spondias pinnata has strong antibacterial properties. This study aims to assess and analyze the antibacterial activity of Spondias pinnata leaf extract on the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in vitro. Methods: The design of this research is an experimental study with a post-test-only control group design at the Biomedical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Warmadewa, and the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Udayana. The samples in this study were Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhimurium bacteria in which antibacterial activity of Spondias pinnata leaf extract was tested by using the Kirby-Bauer method. Results: The active compounds contained in the extract of Spondias pinnata leaf include saponins, phenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. Antibacterial activity of 60% extract concentration on Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans) had a strong inhibitory effect. Antibacterial activity of 40% and 60% extract concentrations on Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhimurium) had moderate inhibitory effects. Conclusion: Spondias pinnata leaf extract had antibacterial activity potential on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, aligning with its increased concentration.

Selecting Suitable Tree Species for Direct Seeding to Restore Forest Ecosystems in Northern Thailand

To upscale restoration of tropical forest ecosystems, direct seeding—sowing seeds directly into the ground—is potentially a more cost-effective technique than tree planting. However, its success is limited by seed predation, the harshness of environmental conditions on restoration sites and particularly by a lack of information about suitable tree species. Therefore, this study tested the suitability of 23 native forest tree species for direct seeding, to restore a biodiversity-rich, upland, evergreen forest in northern Thailand. Three replicate seed batches of each species were sown randomly in two degraded sites and in a tree nursery under controlled conditions. Seed removal and germination were monitored weekly until no further germination had occurred for more than a month. Subsequently, seedling yield, growth and species performance score were also monitored at appropriate intervals. Nine months after sowing, seed removal differed significantly among species but was generally low, with a cross-species average of 3.4% (±0.5 SE). Seed size was negatively correlated with seed removal. Eight species failed to germinate. Seed germination percentage varied widely among species. Cross-species average germination of the 15 species that germinated was 25% (±6.2 SE). Two species (Adenanthera microsperma and Alangium kurzii) were ranked as having high germination (>50%), five species (Choerospondias axillaris, Spondias pinnata, Diospyros glandulosa, Melia azedarach and Phyllanthus emblica) had medium germination (20–50%) and eight species had low germination (<20%). Following the first dry season, two of the fifteen germinated species failed to establish. Germination and establishment were influenced by seed size, seed storage behavior and successional status. A. microsperma, S. pinnata and C. axillaris are recommended for direct seeding based on their high species performance index values. This study further concluded that selecting desiccation-tolerant seeds, particularly those with medium-to-large sizes, could increase the chances of successful seedling establishment.

Antibacterial Test of Kedondong Hutan Leaf (Spondias pinnata) Against Salmonella typhi

Kedondong hutan (Spondias pinnata) is a plant belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, plant that grows a lot in the Sulawesi area, one of which is in the Poso area, Central Sulawesi. The surrounding community uses this plant as a traditional food preparation which is often called the "Arogo Onco" by the community. Kedondong hutan contains active compounds that have the potential as antibacterial, namely flavonoids, saponins and tannins. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential of forest kedondong leaves in inhibiting the growth of Salmonella typhi bacteria. The extraction process was done the decoctation method using aquadest and while the antibacterial test was done using the diffusion method against three bacterial strains namely Salmonella typhi BPE 127.1 MC, BPE 122.4 CCA and NCTC 786. The results showed that the leaf extract of kedondong hutan (Spondias pinnata) contained flavonoids, saponins and tannins with the results of the analysis of total flavonoids 1514,9 mgQE/g, saponins 0.613% and tannins 8,94 mgTA/g. The results of the antibacterial test showed the greatest inhibitory power at a concentration of 100%. Salmonella typhi BPE 127.1 MC, BPE 122.4 CCA, NCTC 786, was the inhibition zone 17.67±0.58 mm, 15.67±0.58 mm and 20.33±0.58 mm were included in the category of strong inhibition zone.

Phytochemical Analysis and Effectiveness of Ripened Spondias pinnata Fruit Extracts against Antibiotic-resistant Mastitis-causing Bacteria

Phytochemical Analysis and Effectiveness of Ripened Spondias pinnata Fruit Extracts against Antibiotic-resistant Mastitis-causing Bacteria

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CEMCEM (Spondiaspinnata (L.f) Kurz) LEAF EXTRACT IN INHIBITING THE GROWTH OF Streptococcus mutans

Introduction: Dry socket is post-tooth extraction pain characterized by partial or complete loss of blood clots in the alveolar socket. One of the management of dry socket is by using antibiotic therapy. Inappropriate use of antibiotics in addition to being economically wasteful can also cause bacterial resistance to antibiotics. The use of herbal ingredients such as Cemcem (Spondiaspinnata (L.f) Kurz) is one solution. Cemcem leaves are thought to have antibacterial effects because they contain flavonoids, tannins and saponins. This study aims to determine the inhibition of cemcem leaf extract (Spondias pinnata (L.f) Kurz) against the growth of Streptococcus mutans. Materials and methods: The research method used is the Kirby Bauer method which is a sensitivity test with the agar diffusion method using the disc diffusion technique. In the Kirby Bauer sensitivity test using selective media, namely Muller Hinton Blood Agar media, the inhibition zone created is characterized by a clear zone around the disc. The data obtained were analyzed using the Kruskall Wallis test to determine whether or not there was a significant difference then continued with the Mann Whitney U - Test. Results: Cemcem leaf extract (Spondias pinnata (L.f) Kurz) with a concentration of 60% and 70% can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans better than positive control and 80% concentration. Conclusion: 60% concentration of cemcem leaf extract is more effective in inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus mutans than 70% and 80% concentrations.

EFFECT OF KECEMCEM TREE (SPONDIAS PINNATA) BARK EXTRACT GEL TO INCREASE COLLAGEN POST WISTAR RATS CURETTAGE

Introduction: Periodontal treatment such as curettage and requires adjuvant therapy for healing process. One of the adjuvant therapies used is hyaluronic acid. Recently, several scientific studies have focused on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of various natural products such as kecemcem tree bark (Spondias pinnata) having a protective effect against oxidative and inflammatory changes that occur during the development of mucositis. This study aims to determine the effect of 70% Spondias pinnata bark extract gel to increase collagen fiber density after curettage on wistar rats. Material and Methods: Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups, negative control (CMC-Na gel), positive control (hyaluronic acid gel), and treatment group (70% Spondias pinnata bark extract gel). Mice were sacrificed and then histological preparations were made for further observation in three fields of view using a 400x magnification light microscope. Results and Discussions: The average collagen density scoring value was higher than the positive control group and the negative control group. The results of the Mann-Whitney U test showed that there was a significant difference (p<0.05). Flavonoids, phenols, and β-sitosterol in kecemcem bark extract (Spondias pinnata) have an effect on increasing the density of collagen fibers after curettage as indicated by the higher average scoring value in the treatment group. Conclusion: It can be concluded that 70% 0% Spondias pinnata bark extract gel has the effect of increasing the density of gingival collagen fibers after curettage in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus).

Development, Characterization, in vitro Antidiabetic Activity of Chitosan−tripolyphosphate Nanoparticles Encapsulating Gmelina arborea Roxb. and Spondias pinnata (L.f) Kurz Aqueous Extracts

AbstractNanoencapsulation is a promising strategy for the development of novel therapeutic agents from crude aqueous extracts derived from Gmelina arborea Roxb. and Spondias pinnata (L.f) Kurz stem bark against type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this study, G. arborea and S. pinnata aqueous extracts encapsulated chitosan−tripolyphosphate nanoparticles (GAE−CS−TPP, SAE−CS−TPP) were prepared following the ionic gelation method and were characterized via various methods. The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated for their in vitro antidiabetic activity following the reported procedures. The antidiabetic potential of the GAE−CS−TPP and SAE−CS−TPP nanoparticles were evaluated against α‐amylase, α‐glucosidase, DPP‐IV enzymes, glucose uptake, and glucose adsorption assays. SEM analysis revealed that the GAE−CS−TPP and SAE−CS−TPP were spherical‐shaped with an average diameter of 138±30 nm and 129±19 nm respectively. The encapsulation efficiencies and the loading capacities of GAE−CS−TPP and SAE−CS−TPP were (57.64±2.38 % and 0.25±0.07 %) and (68.21±0.66 % and 0.79±0.17 %) respectively. The α‐glucosidase, DPP‐IV enzyme inhibitory activities (8.09±0.99 and 7.95±0.68 mg/mL,) of GAE−CS−TPP nanoparticles were more potent than that of G. arborea aqueous extract by 3.89 and 3.12 folds respectively. In conclusion, GAE−CS−TPP and SAE−CS−TPP nanoparticles exert antidiabetic activity to be used in pharmaceutical formulations to combat hyperglycemia in diabetes.

Phytochemical and thin layer chromatographic studies on a Spondias mangifera of Kamrup District of Assam

Spondias mangifera is a medicinal plant found in home gardens Kamrup. It is to be used for the treatment of dysentery, rheumatism, swollen joints, abscesses and cholera. Phytochemical investigation on ethanolic bark extract proves the presence of different important chemicals in this plant. TLC study also indicates the presence of multiple compounds in the bark of this plant.

Utilization and Development of Libas (Spondias Pinnata) Spray-Dried Powder

In this study, the effect of maltodextrin concentration on the physico-chemical, sensory and storage characteristics of Libas (Spondias pinnata) powder produced by spray drying was investigated. Initially, fresh Libas leaf extracts were drawn out in distilled water heated at 100°C for 30 minutes. 10, 20 and 30% maltodextrin was added to the solution prior to sieving. These solutions were then atomized in a pilot scale centrifugal spray dryer at an inlet temperature of 180°C, material cooling temperature of 70°C, fan operation frequency of 60 Hz, atomizer operation frequency of 300 Hz and mean outlet temperature of 125°C. Spray dried Libas leaf powder was analyzed for product yield, pH, moisture content, ash content and solubility time. The level of acceptability of the spray dried Libas leaf powder was also assessed in terms of appearance, taste, aroma, mouthfeel and overall acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale conducted on thirty (30) sensory panelists. Findings of the study revealed that maltodextrin concentration significantly affected various physico-chemical, sensory and storage characteristics of spray dried Libas leaf powder. Product yield, solubility and residual moisture content were found to be significantly improved by an increase in maltodextrin concentration. However, it was also found that there is a decrease in the ash content and level of acceptability of the spray dried samples with an increase in maltodextrin concentration. Storage of the spray dried Libas leaf powder for six (6) months significantly affected pH and moisture content. No significant difference in sensory characteristics was detected among treatments indicating that powder quality is still acceptable during the six (6) months storage period.

Elevated level of abscisic acid in the embryonic tissues of Spondias pinnata (L. f.) Kurz., a key growth regulator for its physiological dormancy

Elevated level of abscisic acid in the embryonic tissues of Spondias pinnata (L. f.) Kurz., a key growth regulator for its physiological dormancy

Habitat and behavior of javan hawk-eagle (Nisaetus bartelsi) in SPTN 2 Majelengka Gunung Ciremai National Park, West Java

The existence of the Javan hawk-eagle depends on the condition of the forest in its habitat. If the lowland forest is damaged, the Javan hawk-eagle will be pushed to the higher forest; This can affect the behavior of the Javan hawk-eagle because it is related to the availability of the game in each habitat type. This study aims to analyze the habitat conditions and behavior of the Javan hawk-eagle in Mount Ciremai National Park, using the checkered line method and focal animal sampling. Analysis of the Javan hawk-eagle habitat used a vegetation analysis approach and the level of use of habitat types. The results showed that the Javan hawk-eagle most often used natural forest habitat types (85.38%) at the Cipari site and plantation forests (83.14%) at the Bantar agung site. The dominant tree species in the natural forest are benda (Castanopsis argentea; 20.02%) and saninten (Artocarpus elasticus; 13.30%). Javan hawk-eagles choose trees to nest in kedondong trees (Spondias pinnata) and pine trees (Pinus merkusii ) in valleys between hills and close to water sources or rivers. Overall the behavior of the Javan hawk-eagle found is resting/perching, hunting, flying, and interacting. The most common behavior of Javan hawk-eagles found was resting/perching (80.16%) and interaction (45.88%).

Antihyperglycemic Potential of Spondias mangifera Fruits via Inhibition of 11β-HSD Type 1 Enzyme: In Silico and In Vivo Approach.

The 11 β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11 β-HSD1) is hypothesized to play a role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and its related complications. Because high glucocorticoid levels are a risk factor for metabolic disorders, 11β-HSD1 might be a viable therapeutic target. In this investigation, docking experiments were performed on the main constituents of Spondias mangifera (SM) oleanolic acid, β-amyrin, and β-sitosterol to ascertain their affinity and binding interaction in the human 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-1 enzyme's active region. The results of in vitro 11β HSD1 inhibitory assay demonstrated that the extract of S. mangifera had a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the 11-HSD1% inhibition (63.97%) in comparison to STZ (31.79%). Additionally, a non-insulin-dependent diabetic mice model was used to examine the sub-acute anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-diabetic effects of SM fruits. Results revealed that, in comparison to the diabetic control group, SM fruit extract (SMFE) extract at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight considerably (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01) lowered blood glucose levels at 21 and 28 days, as well as significantly decreased total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) and enhanced the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). After 120 and 180 s of receiving 200 and 400 mg/kg SMFE, respectively, disease control mice showed significantly poorer blood glucose tolerance (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). SMFE extract 200 (p < 0.05), SMFE extract 400 (p < 0.01), and Glibenclamide at a dosage of 5 mg/kg body weight all resulted in statistically significant weight increase (p < 0.01) when compared to the diabetic control group after 28 days of treatment. According to in silico, in vitro, and in vivo validation, SMFE is a prospective medication with anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic effects.

An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants focusing on cardiovascular diseases used by the local people in and around Dinajpur district, Bangladesh

This study aimed to document the medicinal plants through semi-structured interviews, key informant discussions, and informal conversations with local people in and around the Dinajpur district, Bangladesh. A total of 109 medicinal plant species distributed in 60 families with 210 formularies to treat 55 ailments were recorded. The most frequently utilized plant populations were herbs, followed by trees, shrubs, and climbers. Oral consumption was the main mode of treatment in the study area and was followed by external application. The highest factor of informant consensus (Fic) values was found in heart disease, followed by diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, skin disease, respiratory disorders, sexual disease, and cuts and wounds. In the present survey, eight species have attained a fidelity level of 100 percent (Fl). Among the plants, 25 species have been used to treat cardiovascular diseases. The most cited medicinal plants for cardiac management are Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight &amp; Arn., Baccaurea ramiflora Lour., Dillenia indica L., Allium sativum L., Tamarindus indica L., Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz., Terminalia chebula Retz., Phyllanthus emblica L., Averrhoa carambola L. and Spondias pinnata (L. f.) Kurz. The ethnobotanical uses of the documented plants provide basic data, and further investigation focusing on pharmacological research is essential to confirm the results. Numerous threats to medicinal plants were identified during the ethnobotanical survey in the study area. Some recommendations are provided to mitigate the threats and the conservation of medicinal plants. J. Asiat. Soc. Bangladesh, Sci. 48(1-2): 19-40, June-December 2022

Studies on biodiversity, ethnobotanical uses and physicochemical properties of underutilized fruits in Nagaland and Meghalaya

A study was conducted on the bio-diversity and physicochemical properties of underutilized fruit crops in Nagaland and Meghalaya during 2018-19 under the Department of Horticulture, SASRD, Nagaland University. Artocarpus lakoocha, Averrhoa carambola, Baccaurea ramiflora, Canarium strictum, Citrus indica, Docynia indica, Elaeagnus latifolia, Garcinia lanceifolia, Haematocarpus validus, Myrica nagi, Phyllanthus acidus, Prunus napaulensis, Spondias pinnata and Terminalia chebula were found to be in abundance in the local communities and these fruits play an important role in diet of the local tribes and the local communities have their own vernacular names for the particular fruits which were collected from villages through interaction. The village elders, traditional healers, etc. are well-versed in the medicinal uses of these fruits and their different parts. Most of the fruits are consumed or sold in the local market by collecting them from the forests. The fruits are used as fresh or in various processed products such as RTS, pickles, jam, etc., or utilized in various medicinal purposes like paste and powder to treat wounds, boils, rashes, digestive problems, etc. The physicochemical properties showed a wide spectrum of variation in TSS (6.66-26.46 °Brix), total sugar (4.34-12.01%), reducing sugar (2.19-5.96%), titratable acidity (0.44-4.82%), ascorbic acid (4.40-115.50 mg/100g pulp) and anthocyanin (15.27-117.10 mg/100 g pulp) among the various fruits analyzed

Determination of Local People Consensus in the Use Of Medicinal Plants of Thakurgaon District

Consensus in the use of medicinal plants is one of the criteria to find the potential medicinal plants for further in-depth investigation. The present study was conducted with the aim to determine the people consensus in the use of medicinal plants in Thakurgaon district. Data of medicinal plants were recorded using key informant interviews, semi structured interviews and group discussion. A total of 102 medicinal plant species under 49 families with 185 formularies to treat 54 ailments were recorded from the study area. The most frequently utilized plant species are trees (38%) followed by herbs (34%), shrubs (18%) and climbers (10%). The major part used for medicines was leaf. Oral consumption was the main mode of treatment in the study area followed by external application. The top Fic value was obtained in case of heart diseases (0.92). The most cited species used to treat this ailment was Allium sativum, Phyllanthus emblica, Spondias pinnata and Terminalia arjuna. The second highest Fic value was found in respiratory disorders (0.89) followed by cuts and wounds (0.85), skin diseases (0.84) and gastrointestinal disorders (0.81). In case of Fl value, Allium sativum, Spondias pinnata, Cynodon dactylon, Lawsonia inermis, Zingiber officinale, Saccharum officinarum, Tagetes erecta and Baccaurea ramiflora were showed 100%. The species of higher citation frequency were Allium sativum, Phyllanthus emblica, Spondias pinnata, Terminalia arjuna, Cynodon dactylon and Ocimum sanctum. This study recommends that the species which showed high Fic, Fl, Cf values could be used for further phytochemical analysis to investigate active compounds for the discovery of new drugs from medicinal plants. Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 29(2): 345-360, 2022 (December)