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An Evidence-based Systematic Review of Pleiotropic Potential Health Benefits of Sorghum bicolor Supplement: A Polyphenol-rich Derivative of the Leaf Sheaths of Sorghum Plant

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Globally, across different cultures, humans have historically depended largely on medicinal plants for managing diseases that have hitherto threatened their optimal health, survival, and longevity. Evidently, the health-derived benefits of medicinal plants have been strongly attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites, particularly polyphenols. The potential health benefits of the leaf sheaths of the West African variety of Sorghum bicolor-based Jobelyn Supplement (SBJS) have also been ascribed to its high contents of polyphenols. This systematic review seeks to synthetically harmonize findings from various experimental and clinical studies on the health benefits of SBJS in different disease conditions including arthritis, cancer, chronic viral infections, stroke, anaemia, and premature aging. A systematic search was conducted using three primary databases (PubMed, Europe PMC, and Cochrane Library), to identify published articles on therapeutic potentials of SBJS and ethnomedicinal surveys on the application of the West African variety of S. bicolor using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) standard. The inclusion criteria were experimental and clinical studies conducted on SBJS and West African variety of S. bicolor; while ethnomedicinal surveys were on the therapeutic uses of the West African variety of S. bicolor published in the English language. The review provides valuable information suggesting that SBJS possesses pleiotropic therapeutic potentials in diverse pathological conditions through mechanisms relating to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, chemopreventive, and neuroprotective activities. The review also showed that SBJS contains several bioactive substances with polyvalent pharmacological potentials including modulation of pathological mechanisms involved in the mediation of aging and age-related diseases, such as arthritis, stroke, memory loss and cancer as well as chronic viral infections. Taken together, these findings further suggest the need for more robust studies (including disease-specific clinical trial programs) in order to replicate and validate the prior insights gleaned from previous investigations on SBJS.
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JOURNAL OF NATURAL REMEDIES
DOI: 10.18311/jnr/2024/33171
Article Received on: 28.02.2023 Accepted on: 21.02.2024Revised on: 05.01.2024
REVIEW ARTICLE
An Evidence-based Systematic Review of
Pleiotropic Potential Health Benets of Sorghum
bicolor Supplement: A Polyphenol-rich Derivative
of the Leaf Sheaths of Sorghum Plant
Adaeze Adebesin1, Adrian Itivere Omogbiya2, Oluwafemi Gabriel Oluwole3,
Olajuwon Okubena4*, Rita Onyekachukwu Asomadu5, Michael O. S. Afolabi6,
Samira B. Lobo Makanjuola7, Louis Chukwuemeka Ajonuma8,
Adedoyin O. Dosunmu9, Ololade Otitoloju4 and Solomon Umukoro10
1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences,
Olabisi Onabanjo University, Sagamu, Nigeria
2Department of Pharmacology, College of Health of Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
3Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
4Health Forever Product Limited, Lagos, Nigeria; okubena@gmail.com
5Department of Biochemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
6Department of Paediatrics and Community Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
7Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Lagos State University
College of Medicine, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
8Department of Physiology, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
9Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Lagos State University College of Medicine,
Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
10Neuropharmacology Unit, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics,
College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Abstract
Globally, across different cultures, humans have historically depended largely on medicinal plants for managing diseases that

plants have been strongly attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites, particularly polyphenols. The potential
Sorghum bicolor-based Jobelyn Supplement (SBJS) have also
 

              
primary databases (PubMed, Europe PMC, and Cochrane Library), to identify published articles on therapeutic potentials
S. bicolor using the Preferred Reporting

   S. bicolor; while ethnomedicinal surveys were on the therapeutic
S. bicolor published in the English language. The review provides valuable information
suggesting that SBJS possesses pleiotropic therapeutic potentials in diverse pathological conditions through mechanisms
         
684 An Evidence-based Systematic Review of Pleiotropic Potential Health Benets of Sorghum bicolor
Journal of Natural Remedies | eISSN: 2320-3358 http://www.informaticsjournals.com/index.php/jnr | Vol 24 (4) | April 2024
1. Introduction
Historically, human beings have responded to infectious
and non-infectious diseases that threaten their
health and existence through the use of plant-based
products which are available within their immediate
environment. In modern times, laboratory screening
of plant-based constituents has favourably shied the
therapeutic curve of modern medicines, as they have
yielded the discovery of important biomolecules with
activities such as anticancer (vincristine), antiglaucoma
(physostigmine), antimalarial (quinine), muscle
relaxant (tubocurarine), cardiotonic agent (digoxin),
and analgesic (morphine)1-3. Furthermore, the
discovery of calanolides (from Calophyllum teysmannii
Miq.) with anti-retroviral activity, paclitaxel (Taxus
brevifolia Nutt.) as an anticancer agent, artemisinin
(Artemisia annua L.) as an antimalarial, St. Johns wort
(Hypericum perforatum L.) as an antidepressant, and
ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey.) as an adaptogen
further demonstrate the key roles of medicinal plants
in contemporary healthcare1,4,5.
Over two decades ago, the WHO reported that
herbal products are extensively used across the globe
as alternatives to pharmaceutical medicines6. It was
estimated that about 80% of the African population
depends largely on herbs, as compared to 65% in India.
e WHO report also showed that 50% of Canadians
and 75% of people in France used alternative
medicines, while 85% of Japanese doctors prescribed
not only modern medicines but also traditional herbal
medicines6. In the United States of America, it has been
reported that over 15,000 herbal medicines are sold
annually for nearly ve billion dollars, thus constituting
the fastest-growing sector of the pharmaceutical
market6. ese reports further indicate the central
position of medicinal plants in primary healthcare
delivery.
Keywords: 
Sorghum bicolor
e therapeutic ecacy of medicinal plants is
generally attributed to the presence of several potent
bioactive constituents, otherwise known as secondary
metabolites7-9. Various studies have established the
capability of several phytochemicals to attenuate the de-
regulation of the neuroendocrine–immune system that
orchestrates downstream activation of oxidative and
inammatory pathways - the primary co-conspirators
in the pathogenesis and progression of chronic
human diseases in response to infections or abiotic
factors7-9,10. us, it is widely believed that medicinal
plants with diverse phytochemical constituents with
proven antioxidant and anti-inammatory activities
may provide a better option for the treatment and
prevention of chronic diseases7,8,11.
e polyphenols, particularly avonoids and phenolic
acids, constitute a group of unique secondary metabolites
that play roles in the defence mechanisms of plants against
pathogenic attacks and abiotic factors8,12; for example, the
response of the Sorghum plant to pathogen attacks and
abiotic stressors leads to the accumulation of high levels
of secondary metabolites which enhance the survival
of the aected cells9,13. is defence mechanism is also
known to underpin the health-promoting benets of the
polyphenol-rich derivative of the leaf sheaths of the West
African variety of Sorghum bicolor-Jobelyn supplement
(SBJS). Indeed, SBJS has been widely acclaimed for its
several health benets, including chemoprevention
and mitigation of arthritic pains, stroke episodes,
and neuropsychiatric disorders, as well as promoting
resilience against stressful situations14-16. It has also been
reported to contain potent bioactive compounds17 with
multi-target and polyvalent pharmacological activities,
including suppression of oxidative and inammatory
signalling pathways8-9. ese bioactive constituents have
also been shown to exhibit neuroprotective abilities
and to inhibit cell proliferation in cancer cells through
review also showed that SBJS contains several bioactive substances with polyvalent pharmacological potentials including
modulation of pathological mechanisms involved in the mediation of aging and age-related diseases, such as arthritis,

               
insights gleaned from previous investigations on SBJS.
685
Adebesin et al.,
Journal of Natural Remedies | eISSN: 2320-3358 http://www.informaticsjournals.com/index.php/jnr | Vol 24 (4) | April 2024
the stimulation of various apoptosis promoter genes, as
well as down-regulation of certain apoptosis inhibitor
genes, which are critical players in the induction of
carcinogenesis13,18. Moreover, the possible benets of
SBJS in chronic viral infections, such as HIV/AIDS and
COVID-19, have been envisaged based on its ability to
modulate the immune system by increasing the activity
of natural killer cells and activation of macrophages17.
is review seeks to provide experimental evidence
of the health-promoting pleiotropic eects of SBJS in
certain medical conditions, such as cancer, chronic
viral infections, stroke, arthritis, and premature aging.
e probable underpinning mechanisms relating to
its neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inammatory,
chemo-preventive, and immunomodulatory activities,
to elicit more robust studies and clinical trials on SBJS
concerning various associated medical conditions, are
also discussed.
2. Study Design and Search Strategy
Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic
Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)19 standard, a
systematic search was conducted using three primary
databases (i.e., PubMed, Europe PMC, and Cochrane
Library), to identify and screen the published literature
on SBJS and West African variety of Sorghum bicolor.
e literature searches and analysis for selection and
quality assessment were performed between June 1
and July 8, 2022. e inclusion criteria were reviews,
experimental, clinical, and in vitro studies on SBJS and
the West African variety of Sorghum bicolor, as well as
ethnomedicinal surveys on the therapeutic use of the
West African variety of Sorghum bicolor published in
the English language. Articles describing the health
benets of polyphenols and their mechanisms of action
were also included. e exclusion criteria were plant-
based genome, and agricultural studies; studies that
merely cite SBJS and Sorghum bicolor-related papers
without being a primary study on them; clinical trials
whose results have not been published; and studies/
reviews/surveys that do not focus on SBJS or West
African variety of Sorghum bicolor.
2.1 Data Extraction and Synthesis
From the search terms selected from the three databases,
a total of 349 articles were identied. Duplicates were
removed manually. Two researchers reviewed the titles
and abstracts of the remaining 345 articles, aer which
an additional 258 articles were removed based on the
exclusion criteria. As a result, a total of 87 articles
were selected. Aer reviewing the full texts of these 87
articles, 46 were excluded based on the inclusion and
exclusion criteria, leaving only 41 articles. ese search
and selection steps are outlined in the PRISMA ow
diagram below (Figure 1).
3. Search Results
Of the 41 eligible articles found in the three databases,
3 were review papers (only 1, a mini-review, was
focused exclusively on SBJS), 5 were ethnomedicinal
surveys, 31 were experimental studies, and only 2
were clinical studies. ese ndings suggest that there
has not previously been a rigorous synthesis of the
extant literature on SBJS. erefore, it is against this
background that the present review seeks to present the
current state of research on SBJS.
Figure 1. PRISMA ow diagram for literature search.
686 An Evidence-based Systematic Review of Pleiotropic Potential Health Benets of Sorghum bicolor
Journal of Natural Remedies | eISSN: 2320-3358 http://www.informaticsjournals.com/index.php/jnr | Vol 24 (4) | April 2024
4. Discussion
Based on the 41 eligible articles retrieved from the three
databases and other relevant literature identied from
Google Scholar as a secondary source, the SBJS-related
data are presented, in terms of its source, phytoactive/
nutritional composition, potential therapeutic use in
the treatment of anaemic conditions, arthritis, stroke
disorders, chronic viral infections, and cancer, as
well as its use as an anti-aging supplement and as an
adaptogen.
4.1 Source of SBJS
As depicted in Figure 2, SBJS is obtained from the
polyphenol-rich leaf sheaths of the West African variety
of Sorghum bicolor L. Moench (Poaceae). S. bicolor,
commonly known as millet, sweet Sorghum, broom, or
guinea corn, is widely cultivated across many tropical
countries of the world for its economic, nutritional,
and medicinal values4-15. Accordingly, S. bicolor plant-
based regimens have been used for well over a century
in treating various ailments in traditional African
medical settings20,21. Folklore medical practices have
revealed that herbal concoctions of the root are used
as an antimalarial, especially by natives of Southern
Rhodesia, while the seed (grain)-based concoctions
are used to treat diarrhoea and breast cancer, as well
as for their anti-inammatory eects14,21. Extracts
from the stem are used as an anti-tubercular oedema
regimen, while the leaf is utilized for a wide range of
ailments9,14,21. Of particular note, the extract from the
leaf-sheaths portion of S. bicolor is known to exhibit
better therapeutic eects against diverse diseases over
those derived from other parts of the plant14.
It is instructive to note that SBJS has an FDA (USA)
GRAS certication with an organ systems tolerance
prole14,22,23. It has also gained local and international
recognition for the management of moderate to severe
anaemia (as in sickle cell patients), as well as cancer and
HIV/AIDS19,24. It is also widely used to combat stress
and to restore much-needed energy during periods of
recovery from debilitating diseases16. ere have been
reports that SBB is helpful in arthritis, cancer, and
neurological disorders such as stroke, psychosis, and
convulsions16. In addition, it is known to modulate
the immune system, enhance the body’s defence
mechanisms in response to stress and infections, and
aid recovery from debilitating illnesses16,17.
4.2 Phytoactive Constituents and
Nutritional Composition of SBJS
Some phytochemical studies have shown that
SBJS contains diverse bioactive polyphenol-rich
constituents, which can be broadly divided into
phenolic acids and avonoids. Polyphenols are the main
secondary metabolites known to exhibit antioxidant,
anti-inammatory, immunomodulatory, and
chemopreventive eects; the four key pillars of healthy
living and wellness9,25-27. It has been reported that all
food plants, such as cereals, fruits, and vegetables,
contain polyphenols in variable quantities9,27. e leaf
sheaths of the special domesticated West African variety
of the Sorghum plant have been documented as having
the highest concentrations of various polyphenols
(especially 3-deoxyanthocyanidin) among food
plants17. us, its unique properties have been ascribed
to its high polyphenol content, when compared with
other plant-based products. It is interesting to note
that these unique properties, among other scientic
reasons, explain its inclusion into the Drug Dictionary
of the National Cancer Institute, USA, where it
was described as a substance rich in polyphenols
and polyphenolic acids with the potential for
antioxidant, anti-inammatory, immunomodulatory,
and chemopreventive capabilities28. Specically,
the capability to modulate the immune system by
Figure 2. Sorghum bicolor plant with leaves, sheaths,
and nodes.
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increasing the activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells and
the activation of macrophages was also ascribed to this
Sorghum-based supplement28.
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-
UV spectral characterization studies have revealed
that SBJS contains stabilized 3-deoxyanthocyanidin
(apigenindin and luteolinidin), luteolin (avone), and
naringenin (avone); see Table 1. us, avonoids are
the most bioactive polyphenolic compounds present in
SBJS15,17,29. A literature survey indicated that luteolin,
naringenin, and apigenin are the most-studied bioactive
avonoids present in SBJS, with diverse pharmacological
activities including anti-inammatory, antimutagenic,
anticancer, immunomodulatory, antioxidant,
and neuroprotective eects17,27,30. e richness
of 3-deoxyanthocyanidin in this Sorghum-based
supplement such as luteolinidin and apigeninidin has
also been implicated in the induction of apoptosis and
inhibition of cell proliferation in cancer cells through
the stimulation of various apoptosis promoter genes
and the downregulation of certain apoptosis inhibitor
genes. In addition, due to their strong antioxidant
nature, these compounds can scavenge free radicals
and prevent tissue damage17.
Besides, SBJS is also known to be very rich
in minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, copper,
magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, sodium, and
potassium, which are essential for metabolism and
Table 1. Phytochemical constituents of leaf sheaths of Sorghum bicolor, Jobelyn®. It is reprinted/adapted with
permission from Makanjuola et al
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neuronal communication31. It is also rich in various
vitamins, including vitamin B12, niacin, and riboavin.
e presence of iron and vitamin B12 are clinically
relevant in anaemic and immune-related compromised
conditions32,33. It is also rich in proteins, fats,
carbohydrates, and omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. Omega-3
and -6 fatty acids, for example, have been recognized as
active promoters of anti-inammation, anti-apoptosis,
and modulation of neurotransmitter functions, as
well as functioning in the maintenance of cellular
membrane integrity and activation of neuroprotective
mechanisms34,35. e rich phytochemicals, minerals,
and vitamins with proven biological activities may
account for the diverse health benets of SBJS.
4.3 Potential Therapeutic Indications of
SBJS in Anaemic Conditions
e ability of SBJS to boost haemoglobin (Hb) content
and to cause rapid stimulation of the production
of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) has been reported in
literature15,19,24. is is particularly useful in reversing
anaemia and its symptomatic presentations, including
tiredness, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath,
headaches, and fainting36. Anaemia is most common
in children, the elderly, and pregnant women36. e
main causes of decreased production of RBC and
Hb in anaemia include iron deciency, vitamin B12
deciency, and bone marrow tumours36. However,
factors responsible for the increased breakdown of RBC
have been identied to include genetic disorders such
as sickle cell anaemia, certain autoimmune diseases,
stressors including chronic infections (e.g., malaria
and HIV/AIDs), and haemolytic agents36,37. e
most common clinical approach for the treatment of
anaemia entails boosting RBC and Hb with iron, folic
acid, and vitamin B12 supplementation38,39. Drugs and
other agents that can stabilize RBCs may also be useful
in certain anaemic conditions, especially those due to
stressors such as chronic infections and exposure to
haemolytic agents37. Severe anaemia in Africa has been
described as a complex multi-factorial syndrome, for
which a single conventional intervention may not be
amenable37.
e blood-boosting capability of SBJS has been
observed in facilitating the treatment of moderate to
severe anaemia associated with sickle-cell disease,
cancer (e.g. leukaemia), malaria, and helminthiasis15,40.
Pre-clinical studies have shown that SBJS increased
RBC count, Hb content, and Packed Cell Volume (PCV)
in rats and rabbits infected with trypanosomes19,24.
Interestingly, some clinical studies have also
established its ecacy in anaemic conditions15,40,41. In
a randomized open-label clinical trial, it was reported
that SBJS increased RBC count, Hb content, and PCV in
women with pre-operative anaemic conditions without
inducing signicant changes in the white blood cell and
platelet counts41. Indeed, the prophylactic importance
of its use in anaemia has been well documented40,42,43.
e high concentration of iron in SBJS may be one
of the ways through which it increases Hb content and
PCV in clinical settings. e presence of vitamins B12,
niacin, and riboavin may also contribute to its blood-
rejuvenating eect and ability to combat anaemia in
chronic debilitating conditions, such as sickle cell
disease, malaria, and HIV/AIDs15,42. e presence of
omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which are known for their
antioxidant eects and maintenance of cell membrane
integrity, might also act to protect RBCs from lysis
in pathological conditions. Interestingly, it has also
been found to protect RBCs against lysis induced by
hyposaline, suggesting the presence of phytochemicals
with a cytoprotective eect17,43. Additionally, oxidative
stress has been implicated in the aging of RBCs and
degradation of Hb molecules, which may contribute
to the anaemic condition in individuals with chronic
diseases44-47. us, its ecacy in anaemic conditions
may be related to the combined capacity to boost
Hb production and reduce oxidative stress in RBCs.
Nevertheless, more studies are necessary to elucidate
the exact mechanism(s) underlying its capacity to
boost RBC and Hb production in anaemic conditions
(Table 2).
4.4 Potential Benets of SBJS in Arthritic
Conditions
ere have been claims that SBJS is helpful in the
management of arthritic pain and other inammatory
conditions17,43. Arthritis is a common chronic
inflammatory disease, which is widely known to
impair the quality of life of the aected patients, and is
a major cause of disability among the elderly48-50. It is
characterized by chronic inflammation of the synovial
membrane, pain, and joint immobility48,51,52. Although
the pathogenesis of the disease is yet to be fully known,
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the infiltration of inflammatory cells (leukocytes)
into the joints appears to play a prominent role in
the initiation of the tissue destruction in arthritic
condition50,52,53. e initiation and progression of the
disease have been closely connected with the migration
of inflammatory cells to the inflamed joint, in response
to the release of chemical mediators such as cytokines,
prostaglandins, and leukotrienes54-56. Furthermore, the
activity of the inflammatory cells triggers the release of
free radicals and other cytotoxic substances, including
pro-inammatory cytokines, which further enhance
joint tissue damage49-50,54.
e multi-dimensional nature of the disease,
therefore, suggests that a non-conventional approach
based on the use of agents with polyvalent actions
that can target the multiple mediators involved in
its pathology may be eective49,50. Interestingly,
several polyphenol-rich medicinal plants are being
investigated as new medicines for the treatment of
arthritis-related pains57,58. In this regard, SBJS has
been extensively studied in various in vitro and in vivo
models of inammation17,43,48. In a carrageenan model
of acute inammation, SBJS was shown to potentially
reduce inammatory paw oedema in rats43. is model
has served as one of the rational tools in the pre-clinical
screening of drugs with anti-inammatory properties,
as the reduction of paw oedema in rats is akin to the
attenuation of acute inammation in humans59. In
another study, SBJS was evaluated in the granuloma air
pouch model of sub-acute inammation. is model has
been shown to closely mimic the pathology of arthritic
disorders, based on the patterns of disease progression,
tissue destruction, inltration of White Blood Cells
(WBCs), and release of cytotoxic mediators54,60-62.
e ecacy of pharmacological ligands in the
granuloma air pouch model; is based on the reduction
of inammatory exudates, WBC count, concentrations
of biomarkers of oxidative stress, and inammatory
mediators in the uid exudates, as well as the histological
cyto-architecture of the pouch tissue61,62. Notably, SBJS
was reported to decrease the volume of inammatory
exudates, and WBC count, and positively modulated
the altered uid concentrations of biomarkers of
oxidative stress in rats. More importantly, histological
studies revealed that it also protected the pouch
tissue of the rats subjected to carrageenan-induced
granulomatous inammation43. ese ndings further
provide experimental evidence supporting its potential
in chronic inammatory diseases such as arthritis. is
observation has also been validated by the nding that
SBJS reduced the joint inammation, oxidative stress,
and pro-inammatory cytokines induced by Complete
Freund Adjuvant (CFA) in rodents48. It is important to
note that CFA-induced chronic inammation is a well-
recognized model for studying molecular mechanisms
associated with the pathophysiology of arthritis63,64.
e in vitro anti-inammatory activity of SBJS has
been evaluated using the rat RBC membrane stabilizing
model. e erythrocyte membrane is considered to be
similar to the lysosomal membrane, which plays an
important role in inammation65,66. is in vitro test is
known to be related to the release of haemoglobin from
RBCs exposed to hyposaline, and the prevention of
RBC lysis has been described as a biochemical index for
the evaluation of compounds with anti-inammatory
property65,66. us, compounds with membrane-
stabilizing capacity are expected to demonstrate anti-
inammatory activity by preventing the release of
lysosomal phospholipases, which are prime mediators
in the early phase of the inammatory process65,66.
us, the ndings that SBJS exhibited membrane-
stabilizing activity lend credence to its possession of
anti-inammatory eect and probable benecial eect
in combating inammatory diseases. Furthermore,
Benson et al.,17 also evaluated its in vitro anti-
inflammatory eect on cultured polymorphonuclear
cells and reported that it showed anti-inammatory
activity through mechanisms relating to suppression
of leukocyte migration and antioxidation. ey further
reported that its antioxidant protective capacity was
signicantly higher than that reported for various
cereal grains and vegetables17. is Sorghum-based
supplement was also shown to exhibit inhibitory
activity against a variety of oxidant molecules, with a
total Oxygen Radical Scavenging Capacity (ORAC)
of 37,622 μmol TE/g17. e authors concluded that it
also contained polyphenol-rich phytomolecules, such
as luteolin, naringenin, and apigenin, which have been
established as potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
compounds17. Similarly, ndings from the in vitro
studies of Mankanjuola et al.,29 have also revealed
that 7-methoxyavone-apigeninidin and apigenin
constituents of this Sorghum-based supplement
exhibited inhibitory activity against PG‐E2 expression
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and COX‐2 enzyme activity, further suggesting its role
in inammatory disorders (Table 2).
4.5 Potential Use of SBJS for Stroke
Disorders
ere is some evidence in the literature that has
established that the polyphenol-rich phytomoieties
found in SBJS exhibited a wide range of neuroprotective
eects against certain brain conditions, including
stroke. It has been suggested that its protective eect
against ischemic stroke might be related to several
mechanisms, including inhibition of NF-kB signalling
pathway67-69. It is worth noting that ischemic stroke
is a fatal disease caused by sudden obstruction of
cerebral blood ow and subsequent neuronal cell
death67,70,71. Occlusion of the carotid artery and the
attendant reperfusion are critical factors involved in
ischemic stroke67,70,71. e morbidity and mortality
associated with stroke are alarming, resulting in huge
losses of economic manpower and productivity72-74.
Stroke is typically associated with neurological decits
with accompanying physical disabilities, and the belief
that it is incurable may also lead to various psychiatric
disturbances, such as anxiety, depression, and memory
decits75.
Ischemic stroke accounts for over 85% of all cases
of stroke and its pathology is known to be due to
activation of neuronal oxidative and inammatory
pathways67,76. Both pre-clinical and clinical studies
have reported increased biomarkers of oxidative stress
and inammatory cytokines aer the onset of ischemic
stroke67,76. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 (IL-1),
and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are some
of the most studied cytokines in stroke pathology67,77.
In stroke patients, IL-6 has been linked to early
neurological deterioration, greater infarct volumes,
and poorer long-term outcomes67. High plasma
levels of TNF-α have also been correlated with infarct
volume and neurological decits in various models of
cerebral ischemia67,76. During reperfusion, there is an
increase in serum cortisol, which further exacerbates
neuronal damage by disrupting glucose homeostasis
and increasing oxidative stress in the brain. Moreover,
increased oxidative stress and leukocyte inltration
result in the formation of more pro-inammatory
cytokines, which perpetuate neurodegeneration in
the brains of animals with ischemic stroke67,76,77. On
this basis, current approaches to the treatment of the
disease using thrombolytic agents are quite limited in
scope, as they cannot antagonize the injurious oxidative
and inammatory events that underpin ischemic
stroke67,68,78. us, oxidative and neuro-inammatory
pathways are currently being viewed as promising
targets for the development of new drugs that could
be used to antagonize the multiple mechanisms and
mediators involved in ischemic brain injury. Bioactive
compounds of plant origin with potent antioxidant
and anti-inammatory activities are believed to
hold promise for the development of therapeutic
strategies67,68,78,79.
Indeed, several studies have shown that various
phytochemicals can target the multiple pathways
involved in the pathophysiology of stroke, including
oxidative stress, inammation, and apoptotic cell death.
Moreover, epidemiological data in the extant literature
have evidenced that regular consumption of food rich
in polyphenols can reduce the risk of stroke78,79. e
eect of SBJS has been experimentally evaluated against
ischemic stroke using the occlusion of the bilateral
common carotid artery by a group of scientists at the
University of Ibadan, Nigeria16. e results of their
investigations revealed that the neurological decits
produced by the occlusion of the bilateral common
carotid artery in rats—which approximates the
clinical characteristics seen in patients with ischemic
stroke80, were attenuated by SBJS16. In addition, it
also mitigated the biochemical changes relating to
increases in oxidative biomarkers and depletion of
antioxidant defence molecules in the brains of the rats
subjected to the ischemic stroke16. e brain contents
of pro-inammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α)
and the expression of immunopositive cells of NF-kB
in rats with ischemic stroke were reduced by SBJS16.
e neuroprotective eect of this Sorghum-based
supplement is another major nding obtained from
this study. It is well-known that stroke causes damage
to several neuronal pathways, which are crucial in the
regulation of motor and cognitive functions67,68. us,
the nding that SBJS protected the neurons of the
striatum, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, as well
as increasing the population of viable neuronal cells
in these brain regions of ischemic rats, corroborates
its neuroprotective capacity. However, robust clinical
trials using neurological and molecular markers are
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necessary to establish its clinical ecacy in stroke
(Table 2).
4.6 Anti-aging Potential of SBJS
Aging has been described as a universal and multi-
factorial process characterized by a gradual decline
of physiological functions. It occurs at the molecular,
cellular, and tissue levels, and comprises a series
of pathological mechanisms such as deregulated
autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere
shortening, oxidative stress, systemic inammation,
and metabolic dysfunction81-83. e deregulation
of these interconnected pathways leads cells to a
state of senescence, which contributes to aging and
age-related diseases. Although many theories have
been proposed to explain the molecular mechanism
associated with the aging process, the free radical
theory, proposed by Harman84 in 1956, appears
to be highly insightful. According to this theory,
aging is associated with the accumulation of reactive
oxygen species that exert oxidative damage to cellular
biomolecules and apoptosis, ultimately leading to a
decline of physiological function and death82-84. e
cellular degeneration and early apoptosis caused by
free radicals produce oxidative stress, which has been
regarded as the main pathological culprit in premature
aging82,84. Moreover, oxidative stress is oen aggravated
by a variety of stressors, such as chronic infections and
abiotic factors, which may accelerate aging and age-
related diseases, as well as increased vulnerability to
death. e deterioration in bodily function with aging
is the primary risk factor for most human pathologies,
such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and
neurodegenerative diseases78,85.
Strategic focus on interventions that increase
lifespan in model organisms such as Drosophila
melanogaster, and the potential of translating such
discoveries into the development of therapies to combat
age-related diseases, are currently being pursued78.
Such interventions that are capable of slowing aging
are likely to delay the onset of many human diseases,
such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders,
and neurodegenerative diseases. In this regard, the
consumption of foods rich in polyphenols has been
reported to have probable preventive and therapeutic
implications in the aforementioned non-communicable
diseases86-88. Recently, food plants rich in polyphenols
have been described as the ‘Elixir of Life, as they possess
the capabilities of promoting longevity78.
e eectiveness of the anti-aging action of
nutritional interventions has been advocated in the war
against age-related diseases, promoting healthy living
and longevity81. Mechanistically, natural supplements
have been shown to exhibit polyvalent actions against
oxidative, inammatory, and degenerative processes,
ultimately aiding immune functions and, thus,
improving quality of life. Indeed, food supplements
with antioxidant-boosting capacity have been gaining
attention for the prevention and treatment of chronic
conditions linked to Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), as
they have relevant properties related to age-related and
chronic syndromes78,86-88.
e probable anti-aging potentials of SBJS lie in its
antioxidant, anti-inammatory, anti-apoptotic, and
neuroprotective eects in experimental models22,43,89.
Studies have shown that its polyphenolic constituents
such as apigenin and luteolin exhibit anti-aging activity
through neuroprotective mechanisms relating to
anti-inammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptosis
eects78,82,90. Interestingly, the rst concrete evidence
regarding its anti-aging eect came from a study
conducted at Brunswick Laboratory, USA, which
revealed that it inhibited the activity of elastase-1 and
collagenase-115: enzymes that have been implicated
in premature aging, especially, the aging of the skin91.
Specically, SBJS was shown to be more eective than
vitamin C and ferulic acid in inhibiting collagenase
and elastase, suggesting its capability to promote skin
health15. Also, its potential in age-related diseases,
such as Alzheimer’s disease, has been investigated in
a scopolamine-induced amnesia model92. e study
revealed that it also attenuated amnesia produced by
scopolamine through its neuronal antioxidant protective
mechanisms92. A more recent study using Drosophila
melanogaster showed that the supplement extended
the lifespan and improved motor function of the ies,
through augmentation of the antioxidant status93. In
addition, it also extended the lifespan of D. melanogaster
exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)92. In another
study, SBJS was shown to exhibit a neuroprotective
capability against neurodegeneration in a binge-alcohol
rat model through modulation of cellular apoptosis
(p53) neurotrophin-positive expression and decreased
inammatory signalling cascade in specic brain
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regions22,89. ese experimental ndings lend further
credence to its potential in promoting cellular survival
and longevity (Table 2).
4.7 Potential of SBJS in Chronic Viral
Infections
e probable benecial eects of SBJS in chronic viral
infections, such as HIV/AIDS and COVID-19, have
been envisaged based on its potent anti-inammatory
capacity, as well as its ability to modulate the immune
system by increasing the activity of natural killer cells
and activation of macrophages15,17. e pathogenesis
of HIV is known to be associated with the depletion
of the immune function, which predisposes infected
individuals to secondary infections94,95, with the ensuing
immunocompromised state threatening survival95-97.
Although the impact of COVID-19 infection is closely
related to chronic inammation, commonly described
as the cytokine storm97, the severity of the disease also
depends on the functionality of the immune system96,97.
e pattern of invasion and infectivity is also similar
to HIV, as the SARS-CoV-2 virus exhibits receptor
attachment, cellular entry, replication, cellular outlet,
and cytokine induction94-97. e complex nature of HIV
and COVID-19 suggests a need for the development of
interventions with polyvalent actions that can mitigate
the inammatory mediators while also strengthening
the immune system against viral replication and
infectivity97,98. In this regard, the therapeutic potentials
of several polyphenolic compounds in controlling the
key cellular mechanisms involved in the infectivity of
these viral infections are actively being investigated97.
is is not surprising, as polyphenols are well-known
to modulate the immune response and boost resistance
to chronic viral infections15,17,26,97,99.
e anti-inammatory, antioxidant, and
immunomodulatory eects of SBJS15,17,42 are strongly
indicative of its anti-viral potential against HIV/AIDs
and COVID-19. Pre-clinical studies have shown that
SBJS up-regulates the expressions of chemokines
and increases CD4 cell counts in cultured human
monocytes and macrophages41, which are known to be
severely aected by HIV infection17,95,100. Specically,
Benson et al.,17 have shown that SBJS causes several
folds increase in the expression of chemokines (e.g.,
RANTES/CCL5, Mip-1a/CCL3, and MIP-1b/CCL4)
known to inhibit HIV entry into CD4+ T-cells.
Interestingly, increases in chemokine production exert
protective eects on the host immune response against
HIV infection and disease progression95,100. It was
also reported to exert an immunomodulatory eect
on a wide range of both pro- and anti-inammatory
cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α and,
in particular, interferon-α17, suggesting eective viral
suppressive capabilities in patients with HIV/AIDs95,96.
It has also been reported that it increased interferon-
alpha (IFN-α) levels by 12-fold17, further suggesting
immunomodulatory and viral suppressive capacities.
It is important to note that IFN-α has been reported
to inhibit HIV replication95. Interestingly, naringenin
- one of the prominent phytoactive constituents of
SBJS - has been reported to show strong inhibition of
SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro101. e inhibition of
pro-inammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α,
by naringenin has been ascribed to a synergistic action
that enhances its antiviral eects101. us, the potential
benets of naringenin in COVID-19 may be ascribed
to its ability to inhibit or slow down the viral infection
and the associated cytokine release/cytokine storm
syndrome101. It is interesting to note that the leaf
sheaths of Sorghum bicolor - the principal source of SBJS
- have been listed as one of the plants used for treating
respiratory infections in an ethnomedicinal survey102,
lending further credence to its therapeutic potential in
COVID-19. Indeed, Alhazmi et al.,103 have reported
that S. bicolor is one of the medicinal plants from which
molecules with potential benet against viral diseases,
such as COVID-19, have been extracted103. From
a broader perspective, SBJS is therefore, a potential
chemo-preventive agent for modulating the immune
function and controlling inammatory reactions in
the context of viral infections, such as HIV/AIDs
and COVID-19. Clinical studies have shown that it
increased the CD4+ T-lymphocyte cellular count as
well as bone marrow function, indicating a potential
benet in HIV/AIDS15,39 (Table 2).
4.8 Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of
SBJS
e bioactive constituents of SBJS are known to inhibit
cell proliferation in cancer cells through the stimulation
of various apoptotic promoter genes, as well as down-
regulating certain apoptotic inhibitor genes that are
critical in carcinogenesis104. It is worth noting that
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cancer is a disease of multiple pathologies, though
dysregulated or abnormal cell replication appears to be
the primary underlying factor105,106. Cancer may ensue
as a result of critical alterations in DNA at the site of
some classes of genes that are important in regulating
cell proliferation, cell death, and DNA repair, as well
as tumour-suppressing genes105,106. Damage to DNA
repair genes is a major predisposing factor leading to
mutations in the genome, ultimately increasing the
probability of neoplastic transformations105,106. Cancer
formation involves three major phases: initiation,
promotion, and progression (Figure 3). e stage of
initiation is a rapid, irreversible change in the genetic
machinery of the target cell that primes it for subsequent
neoplasm. is early phase of carcinogenesis is known
to be due to exposure to mutagenic carcinogens, which
interact with the DNA to form permanent heritable
change(s) in the genome that are yet to be expressed
phenotypically105,106. is suggests that initiation
alone does not result in tumour formation; however,
initiated cells display altered cellular characteristics,
which may include altered responsiveness to the
microenvironment and a proliferative advantage,
relative to the surrounding normal cells105,106.
e stage of promotion has been described as a
reversible process in the life cycle of the cancer cell,
which usually entails the conversion of initiated
cells into active proliferation to a greater extent than
normal cells105,106. An essential feature of tumour
promotion is the creation of a mitogenic environment
and enhancement of the possibility for further genetic
damage105,106. It has been reasoned that polyphenols
with multiple actions capable of targeting the various
pathways that trigger the promotion of initiated/
latent cells to active proliferation may retard tumour
development10,107,108. is suggests the importance
of polyphenol-rich foods with chemopreventive
capabilities. e nal phase of cancer progression
is characterized by the development of irreversible
neoplasm, manifested as a rapid increase in tumour
size, with the cells undergoing further mutations with
invasive and metastatic potentials105,106,108. Although
the ecacy of phytochemicals might be limited at
this last phase, there have been several claims of the
eectiveness of dietary polyphenols against a variety
of tumours. Epidemiological and animal studies have
shown that phenolic compounds exhibit anti-cancer
properties through multiple mechanisms relating to
antioxidant activity, induction of cell cycle arrest and
apoptosis, and the promotion of tumour suppressor
proteins7,10,109.
Epidemiological studies have also reported that
Sorghum consumption is correlated with a low
incidence of oesophageal cancer in various parts of
the world10,109-111. Park et al.,112 have reported that the
metastasis of breast cancer to the lungs was blocked
by Sorghum extracts in an immune-decient mouse
metastasis model. In vitro studies of Sorghum extracts
on several cancer cells have revealed induction of cell
apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation, and promotion
of the expression of cell cycle regulators13,18,104,107. e
eects of phenolic extracts from 13 Sorghum accessions
on cancer cell growth on both hepatocarcinoma
HepG2 and colorectal adenocarcinoma Caco2 cell lines
have recently been investigated7. It was concluded that
the phenolic extracts of various Sorghum accessions
Figure 3. Phases of Carcinogenesis: Initiation, promotion, progression, and metastasis reprinted/adapted from
Siddiqui et al108.
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inhibited HepG2 or Caco-2 cancer cell growth
in a dose- and time-dependent manner, through
cytostatic and apoptotic mechanisms7. e anticancer
properties of Sorghum extracts have been ascribed
partly to the high content of 3-deoxyanthocyanidins13.
Moreover, Makanjuola et al.,113 have reported that
the 7-methoxyavone-apigeninidin and apigenin
constituents of SBJS exhibited anticancer potential
through the modulation of immune cells in in vitro
models. is echoes the description by the National
Cancer Institute of SBJS as the richest source of
3-deoxyanthocyanidins; indeed, it has the highest
contents of various polyphenolic compounds among
food plants, with high capability for chemoprevention
and inhibition of cell proliferation28. Although more
studies on the potential anticancer ecacy of SBJS
are necessary, the existing information suggests its
valuable benets as a supplement for cancer prevention
(Table 2).
4.9 Potential of SBJS as Adaptogen
e routine use of SBJS in an adaptogenic-like fashion
for the relief of feelings of intense stress and to restore
much-needed energy during periods of recovery from
debilitating diseases represents another major reason
for its routine use16,20,24. It is important to note that
the response to both biotic (pathogens) and abiotic
(physical and psychosocial factors) stressors induces
adaptive responses; however, when stress persists
and becomes intense, the adaptive mechanisms
of the organism become decient, resulting in the
pathogenesis of several human diseases114-116. e
breakdown in adaptive responses, which signals organ
pathologies and immune dysfunctions, was coined by
Hans Selye as general adaptation syndrome8,117,118,
who reasoned that human illnesses stemmed from
ineective adaptation118. e notion of general
adaptation syndrome led to the search during the
Second World War by Russian scientists for substances
- later called adaptogens - of plant origin that could be
used to enhance the capability for physical and mental
work, and which can help individuals to survive in
challenging situations involving intense/prolonged
stress117,119.
Adaptogens were initially dened as substances
that enhance the "state of non-specic resistance"
to stress; a physiological condition that is linked
with dysregulation of the neuroendocrine–immune
system117,119. More recently, adaptogens were dened
as a category of herbal medicinal and nutritional
products promoting the adaptability, resilience, and
survival of living organisms in stressful situations8.
us, adaptogens are meant to stimulate the intrinsic
adaptive mechanisms of the organism, to help it
survive in situations of intense/prolonged stress117.
e most striking features of adaptogens include the
capability to mount resistance against varied stressors,
such as physical, chemical, biological (pathogens),
and psychological noxious factors, thus exerting
benecial healthy eects independent of the nature of
the pathological conditions117,119. However, in clinical
settings, adaptogens are generally reputed for their
ability to exert an anti-fatigue eect, increasing mental
work capacity against a background of stress and
fatigue, particularly concerning tolerance to mental
exhaustion and enhanced attention117.
Extensive reviews have documented the ability
of adaptogenic substances to activate the protective
mechanisms of cells, to promote increased survival
rates in both in vitro and in vivo models8,117. Adaptogens
have been reported to eectively prevent and treat
stress-related and aging disorders, such as chronic
fatigue, memory impairment, depression, anxiety,
sleep disturbance, diabetes, heart diseases, chronic
inammatory and autoimmune diseases, infections,
and cancer8. Based on the polyvalent pharmacological
actions of adaptogens, it has been proposed that the
normal paradigm of "one drug for one disease: does
not correctly apply to them8. Plants with known
adaptogenic actions include Panax ginseng, Withania
somnifera (L.) Dunal, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Asparagus
racemosus Willd., Ocimum sanctum L., Piper longum L.,
Tinospora cordifolia (unb.) Miers, Emblica ocinalis
Gaertn., Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.)
Baill., and Eleutherococcus senticosus8.
e rst concrete experimental evidence of the
potential adaptogenic-like activity of SBJS was based
on its reported ability to bring about relief concerning
feelings of intense stress and as an energizer in the
context of general body weakness16,20,24. Its adaptogenic
potential has also been demonstrated in Unpredictable
Chronic Mild Stress (UCMS) through neuroprotective
mechanisms relating to the suppression of oxidative
stress and pro-inammatory cytokines120. It is worthy
695
Adebesin et al.,
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of note to understand that UCMS mimics how humans
encounter multiple stressors daily, and is generally
accepted as the most suitable model for elucidation of
the pathological mechanisms of chronic stress-induced
organ pathologies and immune dysfunctions. In the
UCMS model, SBJS attenuated the loss of neuronal cells
in the Cornu Ammonis 3 (CA3) of the hippocampus,
suggesting a neuroprotective eect120. Moreover, it
also reduced serum corticosterone concentrations120, a
major biomarker of chronic stress response. It is well-
known that cortisol-induced activation of oxidative
stress and inammatory pathways is the primary culprit
involved in the mediation of stress-related pathologies8.
Indeed, an elevated concentration of cortisol serves
as a key biomarker of intense stress. Substances with
adaptogenic activity have been shown to reduce serum
concentrations of corticosterone8. us, the ability of
SBJS to reduce corticosterone further suggests that it
has an adaptogenic-like property120. e possibility
of this supplement behaving like an adaptogen is also
based on ndings that it attenuated depression-like
symptoms in mice subjected to stressful situations
(i.e., forced swimming exercise and tail suspension
protocols)121. In an in vitro stress model, it was also
reported that SBJS protected RBCs against hyposaline-
induced haemolysis43, suggesting cytoprotection and
increased cellular resistance to stress. Notably, the
recent nding that it increased the survival rate and
prolonged the lifespan of ies exposed to LPS further
reinforced its potential adaptogenic-like property93.
is is in agreement with previous reports linking
adaptogens to increased lifespan and stress resistance
in C. elegans122; another model organism widely used
for the elucidation of the neurobiological mechanisms
of stress and age-related disorders. e capability of this
Sorghum-based supplement to combat stress in various
models may be related to the presence of minerals,
vitamins, and phytochemicals that can modulate the
key mediators of stress response and immune defence
mechanisms in response to stressors. ese sets of
reports are suggestive of its capability to mitigate stress
in healthy individuals (Table 2).
4.10 Future Perspectives and Direction for
Further Studies
is systematic review provides evidence-
based information on the health benets of SBJS
associated with its well-known anti-oxidative, anti-
inammatory, immunomodulatory, chemopreventive
and neuroprotective activities. Nevertheless, there
is still a need for more robust experimental studies
to understand the exact molecular mechanisms of
action of SBJS and how some of its components may
act synergistically and/or antagonistically, either when
used alone or in combination with food or other drugs.
Insights gained from such studies will determine
Table 2. Major pharmacological activities of SBJS
Sl. No. Major pharmacological eect of SBJS References
1. Boost blood volume in moderate to severe anaemic conditions 20,40,41
2. Demonstrated in vitro and in vivo anti-inammatory activity, and immune-modulating eect 17,43,29
3. Reduces neurological decits and pro-inammatory cytokines, and
NF-ĸB signalling pathway in rats with ischemic stroke
16
4. Exhibited neuroprotective eect in alcoholic rats via alterations in GFAP and NF protein
expressions
22
5. Anti-tumour, antiviral and immune-modulating properties 17,40,113
6. Attenuated inammatory responses and neurobehavioural decits in complete Freund-adjuvant-
induced arthritis in mice
48
7. Reduces neuronal degeneration via modulation of p53 and ɤ-Enolase protein expressions in the
prefrontal cortex of rats exposed to ethanol
87
8. Demonstrated anti-amnesic eect in rodents through its antioxidant property 90
9. Demonstrated antidepressant-like properties in mice 121
10. Exhibited adaptogenic property in the unpredictable chronic mild stress model 120
11. Extended the life span and improves motor function in Drosophila melanogaste via augmentation
of antioxidant status
91
696 An Evidence-based Systematic Review of Pleiotropic Potential Health Benets of Sorghum bicolor
Journal of Natural Remedies | eISSN: 2320-3358 http://www.informaticsjournals.com/index.php/jnr | Vol 24 (4) | April 2024
whether this supplement can continue to be used as a
standalone supplement, or if some of its components
may be isolated and clinically matched with specic
pathological conditions. It is also important to identify
other possible components. For instance, while SBJS is
prepared from the leaf sheaths of S. bicolor, a 2 kD, the
cationic, amphipathic, and virucidal peptide has been
isolated from Sorghum seeds, which binds and masks
essential viral envelope proteins123-125. As such, it is
important to determine whether the same protein is
present in So rghum’s leaf sheaths and, if so, to evaluate
its concentration and investigate what contributory
role (in terms of antagonistic or synergistic activities)
the peptide may play in the potential health benets of
SBJS.
Finally, the limited clinical studies on SBJS
underscore the need to clinically evaluate its
therapeutic potential in specic disease conditions,
including arthritis, cancer, chronic viral infections,
and stroke, through rigorous clinical trials. is is
especially important in a developing African context,
where the high cost of conventional therapies hinders
drug compliance and contributes to disease-related
morbidity and mortality. e results from such clinical
trials are necessary, as they are expected to provide the
evidential strength that researchers need to signicantly
reduce some of the barriers to the clinical adoption of
validated indigenous phytomedicines126 in mainstream
medical practice.
5. Conclusion
is systematic review provides updated information
on experimental and clinical studies on the health
benets of SBJS, a unique herbal supplement derived
from the polyphenols-rich leaf sheaths of Sorghum plant
in diverse pathological conditions including arthritis,
stroke and cancer. e ndings that it also increased
the activity of natural killer cells and up-regulated the
expression of chemokines; and also inhibited the release
of pro-inammatory cytokines suggest that it might be
useful in infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and
COVID-19. Some clinical studies have also shown its
therapeutic potential in the management of moderate
to severe anaemia in patients with HIV/AIDs and sickle
cell disease. is review also documented experimental
evidence, which suggests that it has adaptogenic-like
properties through multiple mechanisms relating to the
suppression of oxidative and inammatory pathways.
ese ndings may perhaps support its usefulness in
the relief of feelings of intense stress and weakness
experienced during periods of debilitating illnesses.
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... Sorghum bicolor supplement (SBS) has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties in various experimental models [16,17,18,19]. Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, commonly known as millet, is cultivated in many tropical countries for its economic, nutritional, and medicinal values. ...
... Different varieties of Sorghum grains and non-grain components contain bioactive nutrients like vitamins, carotenoids, and polyphenols with various medicinal properties [20,21]. The herbal concoction of the root is used as an antimalarial while the seed concoction, is for diarrhoea, and breast cancer [19]. The extracts from the stem are used as an anti-tubercular oedema regimen, while the leaf is utilized for asthma and anaemia [19,20]. ...
... The herbal concoction of the root is used as an antimalarial while the seed concoction, is for diarrhoea, and breast cancer [19]. The extracts from the stem are used as an anti-tubercular oedema regimen, while the leaf is utilized for asthma and anaemia [19,20]. The health-promoting benefits-including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities of Sorghum have been ascribed to the high contents of polyphenols [16,19,21,22]. ...
... They proliferate in the early phase, causing neurogenic pain, while the late phase induces inflammation. Several natural compounds derived from plants have been described to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties [2,[11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]. Some other compounds include Curcumin, Resveratrol, and Quercetin, which are currently promising in precision medicine [1]. ...
... Previous studies showed that Jobelyn®, a sorghum-based compound, has anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, and anti-oxidant properties [12,13]. One of the most abundant active compounds in Jobelyn® is apigeninidin [15]. To validate the compound against the mechanisms of action, i.e., anti-inflammatory, a PubChem query of the small peptide apigeninidin was carried out, followed by the pharmacokinetic properties of SwissADME. ...
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