Xylopia Aethiopica Research Articles

Theme: Assessment of anthropogenic pressure on Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) in the central area of the Nimba Mountains Biosphere Reserve – Republic of Guinea

The general objective of this research is to evaluate the influence of (NTFP) harvesting in the Nimba Mountains Biosphere Reserve as well as their valuation. The Accelerated Participatory Research Method was used for semi-structured interviews around the knowledge, importance and use of NTFPs. This allowed us to identify 39 species of NTFPs of plant origin and 32 of animal origin. Men exploit NTFPs at 85% while women exploit 15%. Regarding the reasons, NTFPs are exploited for the family economy 42%, followed by 23% for medicinal treatment and 18% for food, while 17% for crafts. The exploitation methods are as follows: climbing (25%), gathering (20%), hunting (15%), extraction of bark and roots (13%), piezes (10%), stem cutting (10%) and felling (7%). The proposed mitigation measures are: domestication of certain species (Piper guinneensis, Xylopia aethiopica, Garcinia cola, Raphia vinifera etc.), education and awareness of the population, development of livestock farming. However, these mitigation measures take into account the different actors involved in the use and management of Non-Wood Forest Products.

Evaluation of the insecticidal efficacy of four plants to protect stored Bambara groundnuts [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc. (Fabaceae)

Bambara groundnuts [Vigna subterranean] is one of the main legumes consumed in Northern Cameroon. However, stored nuts by farmers are quickly destroyed by pests leading to low yields. To overcome this constraint, the efficient control of stored grains from insect pests is dependent on synthetic insecticides. To reduce post-harvest losses of stored voandzou seeds, four botanicals insecticides have been developed and evaluated on the main pest. Plant powders prepared from Piper nigrum Linn. (Pipericaceae), Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M.Perry (Myrtaceae), Xylopia aethiopica Dunal (Annonaceae) and Phaseolus vulgaris L.( Fabaceae), at different doses were tested on Callosobruchus maculatus Fabricius under laboratory conditions. The rest of the study involved combining black bean powder with the three condiment species in different proportions. The analysis shows a highly significant difference (p < 0.0001) between the mortality induced by formulations on day two of exposure with the lowest dose (0.5 g). These mortalities are 100%, 94.44 ± 3.79%, 72.5 ± 96 and 8.33 ± 4.77, respectively for S. aromaticum, P. nigrum, X. aethiopica and P. vulgaris powders. In relation to the formulation, the results show S. aromaticum powder induced 100% mortality compared with 94.44%, 72.59% and 8.33% respectively for P. nigrum, X. aethiopica and P. vulgaris plant powder at a dose of 5%. The results show that the natural substances used had a good insecticidal action against bruchid. The persistent compounds present in the studied spice plant powders are not toxic for human consumption at the concentrations used, but rather a beneficial effect. Key words: botanical insecticide, aromatic plants, powder, seeds, storage, insect pest.

Evaluation of the antiviral activity of different extracts of Gliricidia sepium and Xylopia aethiopica on enteroviruses isolated in Côte d'Ivoire

Objective : The emergence of viral infections has highlighted the need for new antiviral molecules. This study is part of an exploration into finding new antiviral compounds from medicinal plants used in traditional pharmacopoeia in Côte d'Ivoire. The aim is to determine which of the extracts from Gliricidia sepium leaves and Xylopia aethiopica fruits (hydroalcoholic, hexane/water, ethyl acetate/water, aqueous) exhibits the best antiviral activity. Methodology: The cytotoxicity of each partition P1 (hydroalcoholic), P2 (hexane/water), P3 (ethyl acetate/water), P4 (aqueous) of Gliricidia sepium leaves and P1' (hydroalcoholic), P2' (hexane/water), P3' (ethyl acetate/water), P4' (aqueous) of Xylopia aethiopica fruits is determined on RD cells. The antiviral activity of these partitions was then evaluated against a type 1 enterovirus. Results: The hexane-water partition showed high antiviral activity against type 1 enterovirus, with an inhibition of 65.78±9.21% at a concentration of 1 μg/mL for Gliricidia sepium leaves, compared to a non-significant inhibition of 86.84±5.26% at 31.25 μg/mL for Xylopia aethiopica fruits. Additionally, the aqueous partition of Gliricidia sepium induced an inhibition of 50±0.01% at a concentration of 1.95 μg/mL. Conclusion: Hexane-water and aqueous partitions of Gliricidia sepium showed́ potent antiviral activitý against enterovirus 1 than those of Xylopia. aethiopica. Keywords: plant partition, RD cells, enterovirus type 1.

Anticancer Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich (Annonaceae) Dried Fruits on Breast Adenocarcinoma: In Vitro and In Vivo Evidences.

Breast cancer incidence and mortality rate in Cameroonian women is incredibly high, thus there is need for more effective therapy. Xylopia aethiopica dry fruits are traditionally used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes, including the management of diverse ailments such as cancer. This study evaluated the in vitro and in vivo anti-mammary cancer potential of X. aethiopica. The cytotoxic activity of the ethanolic extract of X. aethiopica dry fruits was assessed at different concentrations against MDA-MB 231 and MCF-7 cells using the MTT assay. Additionally, clone formation, apoptosis/necrosis, cell adhesion, cell migration, and chemotaxis were examined. Furthermore, the chemo-preventive potential of X. aethiopica dry fruit extract (XAE) was evaluated on breast tumors induced by DMBA in 42 female rats of age 45-55 days (~80 g). The normal (NOR) and negative (DMBA) control groups were daily treated with the vehicle, while the positive (Tamox) and test (XAE) groups were administered tamoxifen (3.3 mg/kg) and X. aethiopica extract (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg BW), respectively for 20 weeks. Parameters such as tumor volume and burden, tumor incidence, CA 15-3 serum level, inflammatory status, antioxidant and histopathology were evaluated. X. aethiopica significantly (p < 0.05) decreased ER+ (MCF-7) and ER- (MDA-MB 231) breast adenocarcinoma cell growth from 12.5 to 100 μg/mL after 72 h. At the 100 μg/mL concentration, clone formation, cell proliferation, and migration were notably decreased in MDA-MB 231 cells after 48 h, while there was an observed rise in cell adhesion to the collagen extracellular matrix. Additionally, there was a rise in apoptotic cell count (p < 0.01) and caspase-3 activity (p < 0.05) observed in MDA-MB 231 cells following exposure to XAE at 100 μg/mL. XAE, across all tested doses, demonstrated significant reductions in tumor incidence, burden, and volume, akin to tamoxifen, compared to untreated rats (DMBA). Furthermore, there was an elevation in antioxidants (SOD, CAT, and GSH) and a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines (INF-γ, TNF-α, IL-12, and IL-6) observed at all tested doses. Overall, X. aethiopica dry fruit displays anticancer potential through caspase-3-dependent apoptosis pathways, alongside antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Ethnopharmacological Insights into the Use of Chenopodium ambrosioides for Cough Treatment among Togolese Traditional Healers

Togo has an ethnobotanical potential with a great diversity of medicinal plants widely used to treat human diseases. Cough associated with respiratory diseases is one of the pathologies traditionally treated with medicinal plants in Togo. Chenopodium ambrosioides (L.) is a species used in the traditional treatment of cough in Togo. The aim of this study was to document the ethnopharmacological uses of Chenopodium ambrosioides in Togolese traditional medicine for treatment of cough. An ethnopharmacological survey was conducted using the semi-structured interview method among Traditional Medicine Practitioners (TMPs) from six health districts spread across four health regions. The ethnopharmacological and ethnobotanical data collected were analyzed using the User Value (UV) and Frequency of Citation (FC) of medicinal plants associated with the species. A total of 127 TMPs participated in this study and 96 (76%) of them were male and 31 (34%) were female. 73% of the informants claimed usually use Chenopodium ambrosioides in the cough treatment compared to 27% who claimed to not use it to treat cough. Chenopodium ambrosioides was used in combination with fifty-two (52) other botanical species in the treatment of cough and in the study area, Abrus precatorius Linn. (13.59%) followed by Ocimum gratissimum Linn. (11.58%), Zingiber officinale Rosc. Trans. Linn. (9.73%), Mangifera indica Linn. (6.21%), Eucalyptus citriodora Hooker (4.87%), Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich. (4.36%) and Eugenia caryophyllata Thunb. (4.19%) were the most popular plants used for cough treatment among the plants recorded. Sixteen (16) other pathologies including pulmonary infections are also treated by Chenopodium ambrosioides (L.). Abscesses, intestinal parasitic diseases, incurable wounds, stomach aches and headaches are the most pathologies commonly treated by this plant. The whole plant (72%) and leaves (22%) are the primary parts utilized for medicinal purposes. Decoction (77.50%) is the main preparation method, with oral (80.83%) and cutaneous (10.83%) routes being the most common modes of administration. The findings from this study provide a solid ethnopharmacological foundation for future pharmacological and toxicological investigations into Chenopodium ambrosioides (L.).

Evaluation of maize tassel ash and Xylopia aethiopica powder as protectants against cowpea seed infestation by Callosobruchus maculatus Fab. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Evaluation of maize tassel ash and Xylopia aethiopica powder as protectants against cowpea seed infestation by Callosobruchus maculatus Fab. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Targeting insulin resistance: myricetin and isorhamnetin from Hardwickia binata, and luteolin from Hedysarum alpinum enhance glucose uptake and AMPK signaling in HepG2 cells

This study examined five plants (Xylopia aethiopica, Agave sisalana, Hardwickia binata, Hedysarum alpinum, and Toxicodendron vernicifluum) for their potential to address insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. In-vitro assays showed that H. binata leaves and H. alpinum flowers inhibited α-glucosidase and α-amylase while enhancing glucose uptake in normal and insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Phytochemical screening and SPE purification identified the key constituents responsible for the effects. The chromatographic and spectral analysis confirmed flavonoids in H. binata (myricetin, isorhamnetin, quercetin, kaempferol, and catechin) and H. alpinum (luteolin, quercetin, kaempferol, and apigenin). Myricetin, isorhamnetin, and luteolin significantly increased glucose uptake, enhanced hexokinase and pyruvate kinase activities, and promoted IRec and IRS-1 phosphorylation, modulating insulin signalling. They activated AMPK and Akt, with molecular docking confirming strong AMPK binding. These findings suggest that H. binata, H. alpinum, and their flavonoids are promising candidates for managing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, warranting further research.

Kaurane Diterpenoids from Xylopia aethiopica Inhibits Alpha-Amylase and Alpha-Glucosidase: A Combined in Silico and in Vitro Approach

Background/Objectives Diabetes mellitus is among the leading cause of death worldwide. This study evaluated the alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase inhibitory properties of kaurane diterpenoids (kauran-13-ol (D1), xylopic acid (D2) and kauran-16α-ol (D3)) from the fruit of X. aethiopica. Methodology In vitro alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase inhibitory assays were performed on D1, D2 and D3 (0.03125, 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg/mL) and acarbose (0.003125, 0.00625, 0.0125, 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 mg/mL) followed by molecular docking studies, molecular dynamics simulation and MMPBSA to examine their mode of interaction, binding affinity, binding mode and binding energy established with the enzymes. Also, ADMET properties of the studied diterpenes were examined to explain their druggability potential. Result The in vitro alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase studies identified D3 as the most promising inhibitor among the kaurane diterpenes with lower IC50 values of 0.65 and 0.17 mg/mL. The molecular docking analysis showed that D1, D2 and D3 established vital hydrogen bond, hydrophobic and pi-interaction with the receptors, while the molecular dynamics simulation showed the kaurane diterpenes exhibited good stability at the enzymes’ binding pocket. The MMPBSA binding energy values showed the diterpenes had good binding energies that corroborated that of molecular docking. The ADMET properties identified the compounds as promising drug candidate. Conclusion The study demonstrated that the kaurane diterpenoids have good inhibitory effect on the diabetes enzymes. Further comprehensive investigation into the antidiabetic properties of the diterpenes may lead to the identification of new hit molecule.

Modulatory Effects of Morphine and Xylopia aethioica Extract on Kappa Opiod Receptors (KOR), Delta Opioid Receptor (DOR), Pain Hypersensitivity and Motor Functions in Wistar Rats

This study investigates the modulatory effects of morphine and Xylopia aethiopica extract on kappa opioid receptors (KOR), delta opioid receptors (DOR), pain hypersensitivity, and motor functions in Wistar rats. We utilized three experimental groups: a control group receiving distilled water, a morphine group receiving either low (5 mg/kg) or high (10 mg/kg) doses after inducing pain, Xylopia aethiopica group received either 25 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg of hydromethanolic extract following similar pain induction. Pain perception was quantified using the tail flick test and Analgesy-Meter while motor functions were assessed through the Rotarod and Climbing/Beam Walk tests. Additionally, molecular docking studies were performed on selected compounds from Xylopia aethiopica to determine their binding affinities to opioid receptors using Vina. Results demonstrated that morphine and Xylopia aethiopica significantly increased tail flick response times, indicating notable analgesic effects, while improving motor functions particularly in animals treated with higher doses of Xylopia aethiopica. Molecular analysis revealed potential interactions between bioactive compounds and opioid receptors, suggesting further therapeutic applications. These findings highlight the potential of Xylopia aethiopica as a natural analgesic and its implications in managing pain and associated motor deficits, the findings further revealed that Morphine and not Xylopia aethiopica is implicated in pain hypersensitivity after long term exposure. Further research should pay attention on improving the pharmacological profiles of the identified compounds for clinical use.

Free Radicals scavenging potency of ethanolic fruit extract of Selim pepper (Xylopia aethiopica)

Free Radicals scavenging potency of ethanolic fruit extract of Selim pepper (Xylopia aethiopica)

Investigation of Herb-Drug Interactions between Xylopia aethiopica, Its Principal Constituent Xylopic Acid, and Antidepressants.

Depression affects an estimated 350 million people worldwide and is implicated in up to 60% of suicides. Only about 60-70% of patients respond to antidepressant therapy. One of the factors causing patients to not attain therapeutic goals is herb-drug interactions. To investigate any potential herb-drug interaction that might exist between Xylopia aethiopica extract (XAE) or xylopic acid (XA) and selected conventional antidepressants (imipramine, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine) in mice. Dried, powdered fruits of Xylopia aethiopica were cold macerated in 70% ethanol to obtain XAE. XA was isolated by cold macerating dried fruits of Xylopia aethiopica in petroleum ether, crystallising impure XA with ethyl acetate, and purifying XA crystals with 96% ethanol. Pharmacodynamic interaction was assessed via isobolographic analysis of tail suspension tests of the agents individually and in their respective combinations. Pharmacokinetic interaction was assessed by monitoring the effect of coadministrations on the plasma concentration of antidepressants and xylopic acid via HPLC analysis. XAE and XA in mice showed significant antidepressant-like activity in the tail suspension test. With interaction indices less than one, synergism of antidepressant effect was observed in the Xylopia aethiopica extract/fluoxetine (γXAE/FL = 0.502), Xylopia aethiopica extract/imipramine (γXAE/IP = 0.322), Xylopia aethiopica extract/venlafaxine (γXAE/VL = 0.601), xylopic acid/imipramine (γXA/IP = 0.556), xylopic acid/venlafaxine (γXA/VL = 0.451), and xylopic acid/fluoxetine (γXA/FL = 0.298) combinations, which may be potentially due to elevation of serotonergic neurotransmission via varying mechanisms. The AUC of imipramine (AUCIP = 1966 ± 58.98 µg/ml.h) was significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced by Xylopia aethiopica extract (AUCIP = 1228 ± 67.40 µg/ml.h) and xylopic acid (AUCIP = 1250 ± 55.95 µg/ml.h), while the AUC of xylopic acid (AUCXA = 968.10 ± 61.22 µg/ml.h) was significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced by venlafaxine (AUCXA = 285.90 ± 51.92 µg/ml.h) and fluoxetine (AUCXA = 510.60 ± 44.74 µg/ml.h), possibly due to the effect of interfering agents on gastric emptying hence reducing oral absorption. Xylopia aethiopica extract and xylopic acid interacted synergistically with imipramine, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine and reduced the systemic circulation of imipramine.

Synergistic effect of combined multiple plants extract on some blood cell indices of diabetic rats

This study evaluated the impact of combined therapy of multiple plants extract of Cnestis ferruginea, Xylopia aethiopica, Palisota hirsuta, Scleria sp., Napoleona imperialis, Dialium guineense, Combretum racemosun, Heterotis rotundifolia leaves, stem of Sphenocentrum jollynum stem, and root of Uvaria chamae on blood cell indices of diabetics. Female Wistar rats of 40 – 50 g and fifty-four (54) in number were used for this study. They were assembled into 6 groups of 9 rats each. Group I served as the normal control (NC) while the remaining five groups were induced with diabetes type 2 using high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks and asingle dose intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin at 35 mg/kg body weight. Group II was the diabetic control (DC) while the other groups (III, IV, V &amp; VI) were orally administered 7.2 mg/kg metformin and the cocktail extract at three different concentrations of 500 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg respectively. Diabetes was established after HFD and STZ administration. Blood cell indices such as platelets, red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and differentials were evaluated after twelve weeks of treatment using a hematology auto- analyzer. Results obtained showed that the diabetic control group recorded lower platelets, RBC, WBC, neutrophil and eosinophil as well as higher lymphocyte and monocyte when compared to the groups administered the cocktail extract and other experimental groups. This study revealed that the combined therapy of the multiple plants extract has positive effect on blood cell indices and can be adopted as a blood cell boosting agent.

Leaves of Allium cepa and Xylopia aethiopica fruits as potent sources of natural antioxidant for stabilization of viscera FISH oil during accelerated storage

The present study investigated the antioxidant activities of methanolic extracts of two local plants and their capacities to preserve the quality of viscera fish oil during storage. The total phenolic, total flavonoids and tannins contents were analyzed by colorimetry, the preliminary antioxidant tests done and identification of phenolic compounds by HPLC-DAD (Diode Array Detector) and ESI-MS. After these evaluation, the plant extracts were added in viscera fish oil at concentration 200–1000 ppm. The oxidative stability of these fish oil samples was evaluated by measuring their qualities indices during 16 days at 70 °C. Here, oils were collected at the day 0, 4, 8, 12 and 16. The total phenolic, flavonoids and tannins contents in Xylopia aethiopica fruits were 15.62 g Eq acid galic/100g of dry extract, 10.85 mg Eq quercetin/100g of dry extract and 0.79 mg Eq cathechin/100 mg of dry extract. Those of Allium cepa leaves were 6.85 g Eq acid galic/100g of dry extract, 1.50 mg Eq quercetin/100g of dry extract and 0.11 mg Eq cathechin/100 mg of dry extract. All the methanolic extracts exhibited antioxidant activity. The results recorded after FRAP assay revealed the low IC50 (12.87 mg/mL) in Allium cepa extract compared to that of Xylopia aethiopica extract (44.90 mg/mL). These local plants contain many classes of phenolic compounds and they can be used in oil and fat industries as alternative of synthetic antioxidants.

Xylopia aethiopica Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Hepatorenal Damage in Testosterone Propionate-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Rats

Abstract Objectives Xylopia aethiopica (XAE), commonly known as African pepper or Ethiopian pepper, is a plant native to West Africa and known for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It was used to investigate the antioxidative, antihepatotoxic, and antinephrotoxic potentials of XAE in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in Wister albino rats. Methods The proximate, and vitamin composition, oxidative stress indicators, and indices of kidney and hepatic functions were performed by standard methods. Results The proximate composition of the XAE leaf showed varied concentrations of Mg, Ca, Na, Zn, Se, and Cl, as well as vitamins A, E, B3, D, C, K, B2, and Bi. The activities of catalase glutathione, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde levels, K, Na, Cl−, urea, uric acid, and creatinine in the kidney were increased in testosterone propionate (Tp)-induced BPH compared with the control groups. Total protein levels significantly decreased in Tp-induced BPH compared with XAE-treated groups increased on XAE treatment. The aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities were not significantly different in Tp-induced BPH, XAE, and normal controls. Conclusion The study revealed that XAE can be used in the management of oxidative stress and hepatorenal damage in BPH condition.

Abstract 551: Investigation of the antipoliferative effect of the Xylopia Aethiopicaextract in triple-negative breast cancer cells

Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer and has very limited treatment options. Xylopia Aethiopica (XA) is a common spice that is widely used in the regions of central and western Africa. It is known to have various pharmacological properties, one of which is anti-inflammatory activity. The anti-inflammatory effect may portend antiproliferative activity. We hypothesized that the extract of XA will exert antiproliferative activity against TNBC cells. The study aimed to establish the molecular mechanism underlying the antiproliferative activity of XA extract (XAE) against TNBC. The dried fruits of XA were crushed in a mixer and macerated using diethyl ether for 72 h. The macerate was subjected to vacuum and rotary evaporation to remove the organic solvent, and a stock solution was prepared in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Assessment of the efficacy of XAE was performed using serial dilutions (100 µg/ml, 50 µg/ml, 10 µg/ml, 5 µg/ml, and 1µg/ml) of the XAE stock solution, followed by in vitro testing against two TNBC cell lines (MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468 cells). The cytotoxic effect of the XAE was then measured using the resazurin dye assay. XAE resulted in a concentration-dependent cell death in both cell lines. At the highest concentration (100 µg/ml), XAE induced cytotoxic cell death of 89% and 91% in MDAMB231 and MDAMB468 cells, respectively. This was consistent with IC50 values of 32.95 ± 1.32 µg/ml (MDAMB231) and 20.83 ± 1.05 µg/ml (MDAMB468). At the molecular level, western blot analysis of mitogenic markers associated with MAPK oncogenic signaling pathway demonstrated the inhibition of EGFR and AKT protein levels after a 48-h treatment. Acridine orange-ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining showed a concentration-dependent induction of apoptosis in both cell lines. Flow cytometric analysis was performed to quantify the apoptotic cells. A significant increase of apoptotic cells was observed in treatment groups as compared to control after 72 h. Apoptotic induction was associated with increased p53 protein levels after 48 h treatment compared to control. The study results underscore the anticancer effects of XAE in TNBC cells mediated through induction of apoptosis. Citation Format: Shailvi Soni, Shail Rakesh Modi, Terrick Andey. Investigation of the antipoliferative effect of the Xylopia Aethiopicaextract in triple-negative breast cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 551.

Enhancing Nutritional Composition of Fermented Parkia biglobosa Seeds with Spices

Introduction: Fermented Parkia biglobosa seed is an essential condiment in Nigeria for its unique flavor and nutritional value. Aims: The study investigated the influence of spices such as Aframomum melegueta (alligator pepper), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Allium sativum (garlic), Myristica fragrans (nutmeg), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Xylopia aethiopica (grains of Selim), Chrysobalanus icaco (cocoplum) and Parinari excelsa (skinplum) on the nutritional composition of the condiment. Methodology: Thirty grams (30g) of dried spice was added to 300g of previously pressure cooked and dehulled locust beans in separate containers. Each was inoculated with Bacillus subtilis and fermented at 37oC for 36 hours. Results: The phytic acid in alligator fermented ‘iru’, ginger fermented ‘iru’ and nutmeg fermented ‘iru’ were 4.53mg/g, 18.54mg/g and 20.19mg/g respectively, which were significantly lower than the phytic acid of the commercially produced ‘iru’ (21.40mg/g). Starter culture fermented ‘iru’, turmeric fermented ‘iru’ and cocoplum fermented ‘iru’ had significantly lower levels of trypsin inhibitors of 24.68mg/g, 26.13mg/g and 26.13mg/g, respectively when compared to commercially fermented ‘iru’. Skinplum fermented ‘iru’ and cocoplum fermented ‘iru’ had significantly higher flavonoids levels. Alligator fermented ‘iru’ had significantly higher Vit. A (4.65), Vit. B1 (2.94), Vit. B2 (0.31mg/g) and Vit. B5 (0.08 mg/g) compared to commercially produced ‘iru’. The protein digestibility of Nutmeg fermented ‘iru’ was significantly higher than commercially fermented ‘iru’. However, other fermented samples had significantly reduced protein digestibility compared to commercially produced ‘iru’. Conclusion: To fortify and enhance nutritional composition of fermented Parkia biglobosa seeds, alligator pepper, skinplum and nutmeg may be used.

PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ANTICONVULSANT SCREENING OF THREE MEDICINAL PLANTS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF EPILEPSY IN THE SOUTH-WESTERN PART OF NIGERIA

The burden of epilepsy in developing countries made medicinal plants like Xylopia aethiopica fruit; Khaya grandifoliola, Alstonia boonei etc an alternative source in epilepsy management in the south-western part of Nigeria. The aim of the study was to provide pharmacological rationale for the ethnomedicinal use of the plants in epilepsy management. The oral medial lethal dose of methanol stem bark extracts of Alstonia boonei (MEAB) and Khaya grandifoliola (MEKG) and methanol fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica (MEXAF) were done in accordance with the Organization for Economic Cooperation Development guideline. Quantitative and qualitative phytochemical profiling of the extracts was done. Anticonvulsant screening was carried out on the extracts (doses: 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg) using the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure and maximum electroshock tests (MEST). Results showed that the MEXAF has the highest amount of phytochemicals except for saponins in MEKG; and MEAB with the least amount (but higher alkaloid) than MEKG. The TLC showed different bands of spots of the extracts. In the PTZ test, MEXAF showed 100 % protection against mortality at 300 mg/kg; MEAB with 66.67 % protection at 75 mg/kg and MEKG 0 % protection. MEAB, MEKG and MEXAF nonsignificantly increased the onset of seizure and latency to death. In the MEST, MEXAF, MEKG and MEAB at 75 mg/kg protected 50, 33.3 and 16.67% of the animals against tonic hind limb extension respectively and nonsignificantly (p˃0.05) decreased recovery time except MEXAF which significantly (p&lt;0.05) decreased the recovery time at a dose of 75 mg/kg. It was concluded that the extracts possess anticonvulsant activities hence, the pharmacological credence for the ethnomedicinal use of these plants in treating epilepsy.

Ethanolic Extract of Xylopia aethiopica Attenuated Aluminum-Induced Ovarian Toxicity in Adult Female Wistar Rats.

Aluminum is a widely used metal in homes and industries. Xylopia aethiopica is an important medicinal plant with antioxidant properties. The objective of this study is to investigate the ameliorative potential of Xylopia aethiopica on aluminum-induced ovarian toxicity in Wistar rat. Twenty-five rats were randomized into five groups with five rats per group. Group 1 received only distilled water; Group 2: received 150mg/kg of aluminum chloride; Group 3: received 150mg/kg aluminum chloride with 100/kg Xylopia aethiopica seed extracts; Group 4: received 150mg/kg aluminum chloride with 50 mg/kg Xylopia aethiopica seed extracts, and Group 5: received 150mg/kg aluminum chloride with 50mg/Kg zinc sulphate. For twenty-one days, all administrations were done orally. The rats were then sacrificed following chloroform anesthesia. The ovaries were harvested for histological examination. The data were analyzed on IBM SPSS software version 21 and the differences in mean values were considered significant at p<0.05. Xylopia aethiopica extracts significantly (p<0.05) reversed the detrimental effects of aluminum chloride on luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, progesterone and estradiol. The histological analysis of the ovaries showed a significant improvement in rats treated with Xylopia aethiopica extract and zinc sulphate. However, Xylopia aethiopica was more effective in a dose-dependent manner. This study suggests that Xylopia aethiopica has ameliorative potential on aluminum-induced toxicity in the ovaries of adult female Wistar Rats.

10.31248/RJFSN2023.162

The effect of selected spices on the proximate composition, shelf life and sensory properties of cashew nut butter was evaluated. Cashew kernels were milled into paste and spiced with ginger (Zingiber officinals), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), garlic (Allium sativum) and uda (Xylopia aethiopica) while unspiced cashew butter was used as control. The samples were evaluated for their proximate composition and sensory properties. These were kept at room temperature and analyzed for microbial properties. Proximate composition revealed that moisture content ranged from 25.66-36.09%, ash 4.08-5.35%, fat 40.16-55.31%, crude protein 1.64-2.35%, crude fibre 2.39-4.51%, while the carbohydrate content ranged 4.49-15.06%. The energy value was determined, and ranged from 433.15-525.16 Kcal. Ash content was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher in sample spiced with uda, fat and crude protein in ginger spiced sample, carbohydrate and crude fibre in uda and garlic spiced sample. Initial total bacterial count of the samples showed that the sample spiced with garlic had the lowest count (1.35×103 CFU/g) and after 2 weeks, cinnamon spiced butter had the lowest count (1.95×104 CFU/g). Initial total coliform count of the samples (1.05×10 - 5.35×10 CFU/g) was lower in the control sample and after 2 weeks, uda spiced butter had the highest count (1.55×102 CFU/g). Initial total mould count showed no growth for control sample and samples spiced with ginger and garlic. After 2 weeks, only the control sample recorded no growth; however, all butter samples had total mould count within the recommended standard of 103 CFU/g for mould. Sensory analysis revealed that the control sample was highly preferred by the panelist and this was followed closely by the cinnamon spiced sample. This study recommends the use of cinnamon for shelf life extension of cashew nut butter which will result in cashew butter of improved shelf life and nutritional qualities.

Evaluation of Acute Toxicity and Phytochemical Analysis of Gliricidia sepium and Xylopia aethiopica Extracts

Objectives: Gliricidia sepium and Xylopia aethiopica are frequently utilized in traditional medicine in Ivory Coast. To mitigate potential risks associated with their uninformed use, it is crucial to assess their safety levels. This study was aimed at evaluating the acute toxicity and analyzing the phytochemicals in ethanolic extracts of Gliricidia sepium leaf and Xylopia aethiopica fruit.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Triphytochemistry was carried out using staining and precipitation methods. While the Metabolite determinations were conducted via spectrophotometry. The assessment of acute toxicity followed the OECD protocol 423, employing female rats of the Wistar strain.&#x0D; Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed that Ethanolic extracts of Xylopia aethiopica fruit (XAF) contains 7.72% polyphenols, 4.09% alkaloids, 0.34% tannins, 0.12% saponins, and 0.001% terpenoids. In comparison, Gliricidia sepium leaf (GSL) exhibited levels of 7.49% polyphenols, 3.41% alkaloids, 0.47% tannins, 0.01% saponins, and 0.51% terpenoids. The acute toxicity study demonstrated the absence of mortality and major toxicity issues at maximum doses of 5000 mg/kg body weight.&#x0D; Conclusion: Ethanolic extracts of XAF and GSL, do not exhibit any acute toxic effect and they both contain some phytochemicals. This validates the frequent utilization and provides assurance to communities usings these plants.