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Chemical composition and antibacterial of Gongronema latifolium
Abstract
Chemical composition of Gongronema latifolium leaves was determined using standard methods. Aqueous and methanol G. latifolium extracts were tested against thirteen pathogenic bacterial isolates. Crude protein, lipid extract, ash, crude fibre and nitrogen free extractives obtained are: 27.2%, 6.07%, 11.6%, 10.8% and 44.3% dry matter respectively. Potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus and cobalt contents are 332, 110, 115, 125 and 116 mg/kg respectively. Dominant essential amino acids are leucine, valine and phenylalanine. Aspartic acid, glutamic acid and glycine are 13.8%, 11.9% and 10.3% respectively of total amino acid. Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids are 50.2% and 39.4% of the oil respectively. Palmitic acid makes up 36% of the total fatty acid. Extracts show no activity against E. faecalis, Y. enterolytica, E. aerogenes, B. cereus and E. agglomerans. Methanol extracts were active against S. enteritidis, S. cholerasius ser typhimurium and P. aeruginosa (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 1 mg; zone of growth inhibition 7, 6.5 and 7 mm respectively). Aqueous extracts show activity against E. coli (MIC 5 mg) and P. aeruginosa (MIC 1 mg) while methanol extracts are active against P. aeruginosa and L. monocytogenes. G. latifolium has potential food and antibacterial uses.
... Gongronema latifolium (GL) which belongs to family Apocynaceae, Subfamily Asclepiadoideceae is a climbing perennial plant that is edible with sharp, bitter and slightly sweet taste, especially when eaten fresh. It is commonly known as Amaranth globe or Bush busk, locally called 'utazi' in South eastern Nigeria and 'Arokeke' or 'Madunmaro' in South western Nigeria (Eleyinmi, 2007;Nazia et al., 2013). G. latifolium has been reported for its antibacterial activity (Eleyinmi, 2007;Enyi-Idoh et al., 2017), anticancer (Iwea-la, 2015, hepatoprotective effects (Imo, 2017;Aloke, Ogbodo and Ejike, 2018), hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities (Sylvester, et al., 2015;Eyo & Chukwu, 2016) due to its different active constituents. ...
... It is commonly known as Amaranth globe or Bush busk, locally called 'utazi' in South eastern Nigeria and 'Arokeke' or 'Madunmaro' in South western Nigeria (Eleyinmi, 2007;Nazia et al., 2013). G. latifolium has been reported for its antibacterial activity (Eleyinmi, 2007;Enyi-Idoh et al., 2017), anticancer (Iwea-la, 2015, hepatoprotective effects (Imo, 2017;Aloke, Ogbodo and Ejike, 2018), hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities (Sylvester, et al., 2015;Eyo & Chukwu, 2016) due to its different active constituents. Picralima nitida belonging to the family Apocynaceae is commonly called Picralima, Akuamma or Pile plant and its distribution is restricted to African rain forest regions. ...
Gastrointestinal parasites which are responsible for soil-transmitted helminthiases cause illness globally. The control of helminthiasis depends on mass distribution of anthelmintics which has been reported for its resistance, toxicity and low efficacy. In this study, anthelmintic potentials of Gongronema latifolium and Picralima nitida which have wide application in traditional medicine were determined in vivo using Heligmosomoides bakeri a naturally occurring gastro-intestinal parasite of rodents that is closely related to highly prevalent human nematode parasites.
Extracts of P. nitida at 500 mg/kg had higher ( p < 0.05) chemosuppression (92.45 %) than extracts of G. latifolium (65.82 %) and was highly comparable to albendazole (92.61 %). As the dose of the extracts increased from 300 to 500 mg/kg body weight, chemosuppression of 84.91 % and 92.45 % ( P. nitida ) and 43.54 % and 65.82 % ( G. latifolium ) respectively were produced. The extract of P. nitida gave deparasitization rates (p<0.05) of 72.60 % and 77.16 % at 300g/kg and 500mg/kg of body weight respectively. The glucose level and protein content reduced (p<0.05) in mice treated with extract of P. nitida when compared with extract of G. latifolium and untreated mice. Phytochemical screening revealed that P. nitida and G. latifolium contained flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and polyphenols. Acute toxicity studies showed that Gongronema latifolium and Picralima nitida have no apparent toxic effect in mice even at the dose of 5000 mg/kg.
Extracts of P. nitida and G. latifolium have anthelmintic properties that are dose-dependent, and this could offer potential lead for the development of safe, effective and affordable anthelmintics.
... Additionally, G. latifolium is acclaimed not only to be nutritious but medicinal [8]. For example, G. latifolium is richly nutritive with many lipids, proteins, amino acids (essential and non-essential), vitamins, and mineral elements [8][9][10][11]. Also, the dry matter of G. latifolium has been shown to contain tangible levels of essential fatty acids such as linoleic acids [12]. Linoleic acid is a precursor to arachidonic acid, and it forms a significant part of the membrane phospholipids [12]. ...
... Linoleic acid is a precursor to arachidonic acid, and it forms a significant part of the membrane phospholipids [12]. Furthermore, G. latifolium leaves have been implicated in possessing mineral elements such as sodium, calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium [11]. ...
Gongronema latifolium is a tropical plant with verse traditionally and medicinal uses in mostly Africa and Asia. In this work, we determined the biochemical effects of G. latifolium ethanolic extracts in male Wistar rats. The G. latifolium stem and leaves were air-dried separately, macerated, and extracted in 80 % ethanol. The Wistar rats were assigned into three groups randomly; control was administered distilled water, the treatment groups respectively were given 200 mg/kg bw of the extracts of leaves or stem for twenty-eight (28) days. Data showed that the rat serum ALT and ALP activities were lower in the extract-treated group than in the control group administered distilled water. In the rat liver, there were significant differences (p<0.05) in biochemical parameters compared to the control group as the extract-treated group showed a reduction in ALT, AST, and ALP activities. Meanwhile, the oral administration of the G. latifolium extracts led to the elevated (p<0.05) level of serum urea, while the serum triglycerides and creatinine levels were reduced compared with the control. Together, the data suggest that G. latifolium extracts at the doses tested had minimal renal toxicity.
... Gongronema latifolium (Asclepiadaceae) is a herbaceous, non-woody plant widespread in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world [5]. The plant is consumed as a spice, vegetable in local desserts and as a traditional folk medicine [6]. Chemical analysis of the leaves revealed the presence of various phytochemicals, minerals, protein and fat which may contribute to the observed medicinal value of the plant [6,7]. ...
... The plant is consumed as a spice, vegetable in local desserts and as a traditional folk medicine [6]. Chemical analysis of the leaves revealed the presence of various phytochemicals, minerals, protein and fat which may contribute to the observed medicinal value of the plant [6,7]. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effect of Gongronema latifolium leaf extract on chemicalyinduced lipid peroxidation on egg yolk and bovine liver homogenates. ...
Gongronema latifolium is a herbaceous plant consumed as a traditional folk medicine. The aim of this work is to evaluate the anti-lipid peroxidation activity and other antioxidant effects of the plant leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium using various in vitro models. Lipid peroxidation was first induced in egg yolk and bovine liver homogenate using the ascorbate-ferrous system and incubated with the plant extract at different concentrations. In another experiment, hydrogen peroxide was used to induce erythrocyte hemolysis and lipid peroxidation and those erythrocytes were incubated with the extract. Finally the potential ferrous reducing ability, hydroxyl radical and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activities of the plant extract were also analyzed. It revealed that the leaf extract significantly reduced chemically-induced lipid peroxidation in both homogenates when compared to quercetin. The extract also reduced both hydrogen peroxide-induced hemolysis and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes. The extract also possessed significant abilities to reduce ferric ions, scavenge both hydroxyl radicals and hydrogen peroxide. In most cases, the responses were concentration-dependent (p < 0.05). The findings are ascribed to the important phytochemicals which are antioxidant in nature hence the plant could be exploited both pharmacologically and neutraceutically.
... Utazi (Gongronema latifolium) is an edible nutritional/medicinal plant mostly found in the rain forest zones in Nigeria and other tropical African countries (Eleyinmi, 2007). Medicinally, utazi is used in West African communities to treat cough, intestinal worms, dysentery, dyspepsia and malaria. ...
... They are also used to spice locally brewed beer (Adenuga et al., 2010). Utazi leaves are rich in fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids (Eleyinmi, 2007). It also contains minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium as well as iron and zinc in minute quantities. ...
Spices are esoteric food adjuncts that are used to enhance the sensory quality of foods. Some local spices are currently in use for their health benefits in culinary. This study was on the development of seasonings from spice-leaves of Utazi (Gongronema latifolium), Uziza (Piper guineense), Uda (Xylopia aethiopica) and Nchuanwu (Ocimum gratissimum) which were formulated in ratios of 15:15:15:15 (ES); 24:12:12:12 (TS); 12:24:12:12 (ZS); 12:12:24:12 (US) and 12:12:12:24 (NS) with other ingredients. Local seasoning (Yaji) was used as control (CS) for comparison. The spice-leaves were evaluated for their phytochemical contents and the seasonings were evaluated for their chemical, antioxidant and sensory properties. The result of the phytochemical analysis of the spice-leaves showed that flavonoid, anthocyanin, alkaloid, saponin and tannin ranged from 0.20-4.32%, 0-0.16%, 1.49-7.91%, 0.18-5.68% and 0.22-8.63% respectively. The proximate analysis showed that the moisture content of the seasonings ranged from 7.42-12.62%. Samples TS and ZS had the lowest values for fat (3.20%) and fibre (5.39%). NS had lowest oil absorption capacity (7.75%) and highest water absorption capacity (10.70%). The produced seasonings were higher in vitamins A (10.4-17.90 µg/100g), C (55.05-62.50 mg/100g), and E (1.23-6.31 mg/100g) while commercial sample CS was higher in B-vitamins (0.16-0.20 mg/100g). The seasonings with spice-leaves exhibited higher DPPH and FRAP antioxidant activities. In overall sensory acceptability, control sample CS was preferred. However, the developed seasonings had higher nutritional, functional and antioxidant potentials and would serve as functional ingredient.
... Typically, aphrodisiacs are divided into two groups: preparations for psycho-physiological stimulation (olfactory, visual, tactile and aural) and internal agents, primarily derived from plants (food, alcohol and love potion) [17]. Side effects are correlated with various synthetic substances widely used to enhance sexual desire and efficiency, such as dopamine, amyl nitrite, and sildenafil citrate [18]. In developing countries, the search for new compounds from medicinal plants is being intensified, due to low side effects, easy availability, low cost, and high efficacy. ...
... The experiment was conducted using Eighteen (18) male Wistar rats, ranging from 120-200 g. Group A served as the control, group B was administered with 100mg/kg body weight of ethanol extract of G. latifolium, group C 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract, The vehicle and extract were orally administered after 12 days of administration all rats were fasted for 24 h, the rats were sacrificed and cardiac puncture procedure was used to collect the blood. ...
... Scientists have shown a great deal of interest in plants with antimicrobial activity and increasingly becoming involved in the screening of such plants to establish their potential antimicrobial effects and identify the bioactive agents responsible for the antimicrobial properties [14,19]. One plant that often possesses therapeutic properties is G. latifolium, a highly valued plant in the Western part of Africa particularly Nigeria, known as "Utazi" in the southeastern and "Arokeke" in the southwestern part of Nigeria, a tropical rainforest plant that belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae [20,21,22,23]. G. latifolium plant possesses effective nutritional benefits and pharmacologic activities such as analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial, anti-plasmodial, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, anti-sickling, anti-asthmatic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic and antiinflammatory properties [21,24,25]. ...
Antibiotics have been critical in the fight against infectious diseases. However, plants have also been used to treat diseases due to presence of some chemical compounds (active ingredients) that possess medicinal properties. This study investigated the antibacterial effect of Gongronema latifolium (amaranth globe) leaf extract on staphylococcus aureus isolates from the skin of human subjects in Lafia metropolis, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts of G. latifolium were screened for antibacterial activity against S. aureus isolates using the agar disk diffusion method. A total of forty specimens were collected and S. aureus was isolated using standard biochemical methods. Hospital isolates had the highest lowest percentage sensitivities of 85.71% and 0.00% from 300 mg/mL ethanol and 200 mg/mL aqueous extracts respectively. Also, restaurant isolates had the highest percentage and lowest sensitivities of 83.33% and 0.00% from 300 mg/mL ethanol and 200 mg/mL aqueous extracts respectively. Both extracts showed significant differences observed in their concentration effects against S. aureus isolates from restaurant subjects (p<0.05). MIC was 75 mg/mL for the aqueous extract against isolates obtained from both sources and that for the concentration ranges of 300-9.375 mg/mL and 200-6.25 mg/mL ethanol extract was observed to be 37.5 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL respectively. The result of the study showed that both extracts of G. latifolium have an inhibitory effect proportional to concentration on the test organism S. aureus isolates obtained from both subjects. Hence, ethanol extract of G. latifolium may potentially control skin respiratory and enteric infections caused by S. aureus.
... 100 µL of freshly prepared bacterial inoculum was poured over the surface of nutrient agar petriplates. 50 µL of extract was loaded to a sterile paper disc (5 mm diameter, Whatman filter paper No. 1) and placed on the surface of the medium seeded with test organisms separately (Eleyinmi, 2007). Likewise discs loaded with positive control (10 mcg Gentamycin, 10mcg Ampicillin) and negative control (DMSO) were applied on the same plates with extract at a definite distance. ...
The study of endophytic fungi has garnered considerable interest owing to their wide range of biological activity and potential implications in the fields of agriculture and medicine. The bioactive properties of the endophytic mycoflora present in Bergenia ciliata have yet to be determined. This work presents a novel finding about the identification of Ceratobasidium sp., a lesser-studied genus, as a new endophyte in the medicinal plant B. ciliata. In the current investigation, the initial isolation of Ceratobasidium sp. was denoted as BCR-1 and afterwards identified by the utilisation of phylogenetic analysis of its ITS sequence. The subsequent enzymatic investigation demonstrated that the endophyte exhibits cellulase, amylase, laccase, tyrosinase, and pectinase-producing activity. In order to determine the antibacterial efficacy of the endophyte, a screening process was conducted using ten bacterial strains and two fungal strains. Three instances showed a high level of antibacterial activity, whereas four instances showed a moderate level. Additionally, moderate inhibition was seen against both fungal strains. In addition, the ethyl acetate extracts were subjected to GC-MS analysis, which detected the presence of twelve compounds. Methyl 12,13-tetradecadienoate is the most abundant at (41.50%). This was followed by benzoic acid, silver (1+) salt (38.33%), 2-azido-2,4,6,6-pentamethylheptane (4.42%), and trans-2,4-dimethylthiane, S, S-dioxide (3.30%). This study represents the initial documentation of Ceratobasidium sp. as a novel endophyte derived from B. ciliata, exhibiting both enzymatic and antibacterial properties. This study elucidates the several functions of Ceratobasidium sp. as an endophyte, emphasising its enzymatic potential and antibacterial properties.
... The proximate composition of Gongronema latifolium leaf meal is presented in Pauzenga (1985) The result shows that Gongronema latifolium leaf meal (GLLM) contains 17.16% crude protein, 5.14% ether extract, 9.86% crude fibre, 10.97% ash, 56.87% nitrogen free extract and 1487 Kcal/kg metabolizable energy. These results are in contrast to the findings of Eleyinmi (2007) who reported higher protein (27.2%), fibre (10.8%), fat (6.07%) and ash (11.6%) contents and that of Alobi et al. (2012) who reported 15.2% moisture, 6.3% fibre, 33.2% crude protein, 16% crude fat, 1.3% ash and 43.7% carbohydrate. Variations in the proximate composition could be adduced to differences in location, soil, season, age variations and washing. ...
An analysis was carried out to investigate the proximate and phytochemical composition of Gongronema latifolium leaf meal using the AOAC methods of analysis. The fresh leaves were air-dried, milled and analysed in triplicates. The results showed that air-dried Gongronema latifolium leaf meal contains 17.16% crude protein, 5.14% ether extract or fat, 9.86% crude fibre and 10.97% ash while the phytochemicals present include: phytic acid, 0.25%; total oxalates, 5.26%; saponins, 0.57%; tannins, 3.85%; glycosides, 4.62%; alkaloids. 6.01%; mimosine. 0.18%; L-Dopa, 0.06%; haemaglutinins, 0.62% and trypsin inhibitor, 0.03%. High crude protein content and the presence of these phytochemicals have shown that this plant has nutritive benefits and potential as a feed resource.
... It is an edible plant with a sharp, bitter, and sweet taste. The leaf, which is heart-shaped and highly nutritious, contains proteins, fatty acids, fibres, and elements such as sodium, potassium, calcium, copper, manganese, chromium, and selenium [18][19][20]. It is also made up of essential oils, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, amino acids, and vitamins [20]. ...
Rauvolfia vomitoria (RV) and Gongronema latifolium (GL) are medicinal plants used for the local treatment of various health issues. Their activities on the brain motivated this investigation on the histology and immunohistochemistry of the dentate gyrus and spontaneous alternation behaviour (SAB) of adult Wistar rats following RV root bark and GL leaf extract administrations. Twenty young adult Wistar rats (130–160 g) were assigned into four groups: Group 1 served as the control (5 mL/kg of distilled water placebo), while the test groups 2–4 were, respectively, singly administered 200 mg/kg of RV, 200 mg/kg of GL, and their combination. The administrations were oral and lasted for seven days. A T-maze SAB test was carried out, and the animals were sacrificed immediately after ketamine hydrochloride intraperitoneal anaesthesia. Serial sections of the hippocampal region from perfused rat brains were stained with Cresyl fast violet and immunolabelled with neuronal nuclei (NeuN) for neurons and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) for astrocytes. Results indicated that SAB was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the test groups. Histologically, Nissl was less distributed in the RV and GL-only groups but not in the combined group, while there was less NeuN positivity in the RV group, with the GL and RV + GL groups not affected. There was less positive GFAP expression in individual RV and GL groups, but not in the RV + GL combined group, all compared with the control. In conclusion, the combination of RV and GL did not improve SAB but modulated Nissl, NeuN, and GFAP expression in the dentate gyrus.
... One such vegetable is Gongronema latifolium a perennial, tropical plant with soft tissue listed among the African leafy vegetable (Smith and Eyzaguirres) and of medicinal importance (Ayodele, 2007). Its leaves and stem have been associated with anti-diabetic property (Ugochukwu and Babbady, 2003 and Ezewe, 2012), gastrointestinal relaxant (Gamaniel and Akah, 1996) and antimicrobial activity (Eleyinmi et al., 2007). It is with this knowledge that this work was undertaken to evaluate the possible blood pressure lowering effect of Gongronema latifolium on cats. ...
... The plant is edible, with green leaves, yellow flowers and a stem that produces milky latex when broken or cut. The leaf Gongronema latifolium is high in fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids [Eleyinmi, 2007]. It is then taken as a purgative for colic and stomach pains as well as to treat symptoms of worm infection [Okafor, 1975;Onike, 2010]. ...
Diabetes is a chronic health issue with devastating but preventable consequences. The increasing proportion of the aging population, intake of calorie-dense diets, weight problems and sedentary lifestyles have been directly implicated in the increased number of diabetics globally. Furthermore, diabetes confers a huge economic burden due to its management costs, especially in low income countries. This study investigated the hypoglyceamic and hepatoprotective potentials of the dichloromethane (DCM) fraction of G. latifolium stem bark extract on some biochemical parameters in streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic rats. A total of thirty (30) Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five (5) groups with six (06) animals per group. Type 2 diabetes was induced with intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin in Groups 2 – 4, with animals in Groups 1 and 2 acting as normal and untreated diabetic controls, respectively. Group 3 rats were treated with the standard drug, metformin, while groups 4 and 5 were orally administered 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight of DCM fraction of G. latifolium stem bark extract. Changes in the body weight, biochemical assays (ALT, AST, total protein, albumin and urea), and expression levels of selected genetic markers, as well as the changes in liver histology, were determined and compared. Data obtained from this study show that the fasting blood glucose levels in hyperglycemic rats were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced, and the body weight steadily increased in rats treated with both doses of the DCM fraction of G. latifolium stem bark extract compared to the untreated diabetic rats. Total protein, AST and ALT levels, but not albumin levels, were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in rats treated with both doses of the extract. In addition, administration of the extracts significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the streptozotocin-induced repression of NRF2 and CAT expression in diabetic rats. Furthermore, histology results show an improvement in the liver architecture in the rats treated with the extract. The results from this study show that the DCM fraction of g. Latifolium stem bark extract possesses hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective and anti-diabetic activities and could be used in the management of diabetes.
... Medicinal plants are rich in minerals, fibre, vitamins, and proteins (Ukorebi, 2011;Okoli et al., 2019), as well as in beneficial bioactive compounds (Ukorebi, 2011;Ogbuewu et al., 2023). They are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of diseases (Eleyinmi, 2007;Ogbuewu et al., 2023). The therapeutic properties of tropical plants are found in some of their organic and inorganic components, which elicit a specific physiological effect in the animal body (Ukorebi, 2011;Okoli et al., 2019;Ogbuewu et al., 2023). ...
... Additionally, it is used in spicing palm oil sauce in various traditional Igbo dishes because of its bitter-sweet taste (Nwokorie, 2017). Among its various health benefits, Ụtazi is a good regulator of blood sugar levels, fights respiratory diseases and improves the immune system (Mbaeyi-Nwaoha et al., 2023;Al-Hindi et al., 2019;Eleyinmi, 2007). Additionally, it is known to enhance the digestive system, lowers cholesterol levels, has cancer prevention qualities and is a good source of liver detoxifier (Mbaeyi-Nwaoha et al., 2023;Ekine et al., 2021;Morebise, 2015). ...
The research evaluates the sensory attributes and acceptability of Egbo enhanced with Ụgba, Efolo and Ụtazi, in relation to the conventionally prepared Egbo. Two different portions of Egbo dish were prepared for comparison, and presented for sensory assessment to a group of taste panelists. A sensory assessment checklist prepared in a nine-point hedonic scale was used to collect data from 44 taste panelists, made up of year three Hospitality Management students of The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Nigeria. The data collected was subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS (Version 20). The results show there is no significant variation in the appearance, color, texture, flavor, and aroma of the food samples. However, there is significant variation in the taste and overall acceptability of the food samples, while proximate analysis revealed a greater content of micronutrients in the enhanced sample of Egbo. The study presents an upward trajectory for gastronomy tourism in the local restaurant industry wherein culinary experts could harness new opportunities to create a niche for sustainable traditional cuisine production and marketing across ethnic backgrounds. Recommendation includes a careful selection and handling of the food ingredients, and a gradual introduction of the food product into the local restaurant industry.
... It is also believed that some of these compounds exhibit such potentials in the body of humans and animals [31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40]. Studies have shown that these compounds are exhibit bioactivity and are physiologically active in nature [41][42][43][44][45]. Phytochemicals, a collection of certain compounds that are physiologically active against disease causing pathogens are among these compounds [46][47][48][49][50]. ...
Phytochemical screening, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and antioxidant activity of Synsepalum dulcificum fruit were investigated using standard methods. S. dulcificum fruit was procured, identified and used to prepare the extract for the study. Phytochemicals observed in the fruit extract were tannins, phlobatannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpernoids, and phenolic compounds. Tannins and few other phytochemicals were in high concentrations. The GC-MS analysis of the fruit extract revealed a total of seventy-four compounds among which are Pentanoic acid, Pyrrolidine, 2-butyl-1-methyl-, 1H-Azepine, hexahydro-, Propanoic acid, 2-(aminooxy)-, Benzofuran, 2,3-dihydro-, Ethosuximide, 5-Hydroxy-4-hydroxymethyl-1-(1-hydroxy-1-isopropyl)cyclohex-3-ene, Benzenepropanoic acid, methyl ester, Ethanone, 1-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-,Benzenepropanoic acid, Benzaldehyde, 4-hydroxy-, Cyclooctane-methanol, α,α-dimethyl-, 2-Cyclohexen-1-ol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethenyl)-, trans-,Cyclohexene, 3,3,5-trimethyl-, (Cyclopropyl)trivinylsilane, Acetamide, n-ethyl-N-phenyl-,5-Heptenal, 2,6-dimethyl-, and 5,9-Dimethyl-2-(1-methylethylidene)-1-cyclodecanol. Some of the compounds have industrial or medical applications. The fruit extract also exhibited antioxidant property which compared Phytochemical Screening … Ezekwe Ahamefula Sundayet al. favorably with the antioxidant activity of ascorbic acid. The antioxidant property of the fruit extract could be linked to the compounds observed in the fruit. This study has shown the phytochemical screening, GC-MS analysis and antioxidant activity of S. dulcificum fruit.
... Gongronema latifolium is a plant that is ubiquitous in West Africa and is often utilized as a spice and vegetable. G. latifolium possesses a panoply of bioactive compounds and numerous pharmacological properties, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and antihyperlipidemic properties [22]. Similarly, the screening of G. latifolium leaves has revealed the presence of a plethora of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, saponin, tannin, as well as flavonoids, among many others. ...
The modulation of certain molecular targets via small-molecule ligands has been regarded as a promising approach for the treatment and management of diabetes-related complications. Notable among these targets are the Glycogen synthase kinase (GSK3β), protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTB1B), and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2), whose inhibitions have been associated with high prognostic patients with diabetic related complications. However, inhibitors capable of exerting co-modulating effects on the three aforementioned proteins are lacking. Therefore, research aimed at the development of small molecule inhibitors capable of co-targeting these proteins remains unfaltering. Consequently, this study investigated the inhibitory potentials of Gongronema latifolium leaf's compounds against these proteins. Molecular docking was employed to screen 134 compounds against these targets; this gave rise to the identification of ten lead compounds (rutin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, silymarin, hyperoside, luteolin, baicalin, rosmarinic acid, naringin, butein, and isoorientin) based on their high binding affinities. Subsequently, the toxicity profiles of the compounds were assessed while their bioactivities against the proteins were predicted using 2D quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to study the reactivity and stability of the aforementioned compounds. Ultimately, toxicity assessment revealed epigallocatechin-3-gallate and butein as the compounds with minimal toxicity, while DFT calculations revealed baicalin, rosmarinic acid, and butein as the most reactive among the lead compounds. Conclusively, this study provides insight into the discovery of phytocompounds with promising inhibitory potential that could facilitate the development of regimens for diabetes management after further in vitro and in vivo studies.
... Nutritionally, G. latifolium is rich in fats, protein, vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids [23]. Ani et al. [24] while feeding broiler birds onvarying dietary levels of G. latifolium leaf meal recorded a positive effect on growth performance of chicks at 75% level of G.latifolium leaf meal per 25kg of feed. Afolabi [25] investigated the chemical composition and anti-bacterial activity of G. latifolium and observed that G. latifolium was a good source of protein content at the rate of 27 [27] Iqbal et al, [28] Okafor [6] in their analyses of G. latifolium found that it was the cheapest most available source of important protein, vitamin, minerals and essential amino -acids that boost the physiological status of humans and promoted their growth. ...
Diversity and phytochemical studies were carried out on twelve ecotypes of utasi, Gongronema latifolium using simple sequence repeats markers. Screening of ten (10) trinucleotide SSR primers, produced 4 primers that were able to amplify the DNA from all the plant ecotype. A total of 34 bands were amplified from the 4 SSR primers which include SSR 2, SSR 3, SSR 1 and SSR 4. Out of the amplified products using the 4 primers, 17 were found to be polymorphic with an average of 9 bands per primer. The number of amplification products per primer ranged between 10 in SSR 4 to 12 in SSR 2 with SSR 1 having the least number of bands (1). The sequences of the 4 random primers used in this study along with the number of bands generated and the number of polymorphic bands. The results of genetic analysis of the Gongronema latifolium ecotypes delineated the 12 ecotypes into five cluster groups. Results of phytochemical analysis of leaves of Gongronema latifolium showed (Table 2) mean saponin (2.09 ±0.01%), mean tannin (1.17 ± 0.01%), mean flavonoid (2.53 ±0.01%), mean polyphenol (4.60 ± 0.01%) and mean reducing 21 compound (7.92 ± 0.01%).The phytochemical indices of the least 1.17+ 0.01% and highest 7.92+ 0.01% were constituted by tannins and reducing compounds, respectively. Thus, the study suggested the need for future exploitation of Gongronema latifolium leaves for phytochemical contents due to their high medicinal value.
... Strikingly, silver nanoparticle from plant; Acalypha wilkesiana was investigated against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity and justify that silver nanoparticle can be synthesized from extracts of medicinal plants to enhance activity (Dada et al., 2019). Conversely, Eleyinmi et al. (2007) reported no activity of Gongronema latifolium against some of the isolates; Enterococcus faecalis, Yersinia enterolytica, Enterobacter aerogenes, Bacillus cereus and Enterobacter agglomerans but methanolic extracts of Gongronema latifolium exhibit activity against some important pathogens such as S. aureus, Listeria monocytogenes and P. aeruginosa. This explains the activity of different plants extracts in the study and it could be deduced that the activity is organism specific. ...
Background & Aim: Antibiotic resistance is one of the global public health threats facing modern health care system. The development of new effective agents has been challenging. Thus, the interest in the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of bacterial infections has increased. Therefore, the aim of this study was to review Nigerian medicinal plants with antibacterial activity.
Experimental: This study retrieved data from published articles on Nigerian medicinal plants with antibacterial activity. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were adopted. A systematic search of PUBMED CENTRAL was conducted. The included studies were those published in peer-reviewed English language journals between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2020 and reported on the key terms; Nigerian medicinal plants with antibacterial activity.
Results: The database searches yielded a total of 817 results, and 765 articles were ineligible. After reviewing relevant titles and abstracts, a total of 52 articles on antibacterial were retrieved for full text review. After extensive review of each article, 13 articles were excluded and a total of 39 articles were retained. Furthermore, 4 articles were also removed due to lack of specific compounds stated. Finally, only 35 articles met the inclusion criteria for the assessment of antibacterial activity of Nigerian medicinal plants. The narrative synthesis of the included studies revealed different plants families with broad activities against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Among the bacterial isolates, Staphylococcus aureus was tested more, followed by Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the bacteria were subjected to 97 medicinal plants species for antibacterial activity.
Recommended applications/industries: The results from this study reveal that many Nigerian medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds with potentials of antibacterial activity and suggest that they could be employed as alternative in the treatment of bacterial infections after safety profiles is appraised.
... However, the results concur with that of Nwinyi et al., [12] who showed that the leave extracts of O. gratissimum and G. latifolium posses antifungal activity. The aqueous, ethanol and methanol extracts of G. latifolium has been previously reported to exhibit antimicrobial activity of a number of pathogenic microorganisms including fungi [13,14]; and this necessitate the need to turn the search light of discovery of new antimicrobials on plants known to harbour active ingredients that have antimicrobial effects since some pathogens are resistant to some readily available drugs. Studies have shown that many plants used as spices in the preparation of some local delicacies have significant antimicrobial and general health benefits to the consumers. ...
The aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic leaf extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolium was evaluated for antifungal activities on Colletotrichum species isolated from spoilt tomatoes using the agar well diffusion method. The extracts showed moderate inhibitory activities on the test organism. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the plant extracts showed that O. gratissimum has alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and glycosides while G. latifolium has alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins as well as glycosides. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of hot water, ethanol and methanol leaf extracts ranged from 0.4-0.8 mg/ml while cold water leaf extracts showed no MIC. The MIC of ethanolic and methanolic leaf extracts mixture ranged from 0.2 mg/ml-0.8 mg/ml while the inhibition zone diameter (IZD) obtained ranged from 10-15 mm. The result of this study though presumptive confirms the traditional use of O. gratissimum and G. latifolium in the treatment of human infections caused by some pathogenic bacteria in this region. And it also indicated that extracts from these leaves could also serve as a rich source of fungicides of plant origin especially for the effective control of ripe rot disease in tomatoes and other edible fruits or foods. Since the ripe rot disease of tomatoes is a common plant disease that affect tomato cultivation and/or yield in this part of the world; it is vital to undertake comprehensive molecular characterization of the active constituents of O. gratissimum and G. latifolium so that plant fungicides can be developed from it.
... latifolium) is widely believed to have strong nutritional and medicinal values. The leaf is rich in fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids (Eleyinmi, 2007). It is commonly used in soup as vegetable, or dried and applied as powdery spice. ...
Comparative phytochemical and proximate evaluation of leaf extracts Gongronema latifolium and Ocimum gratissimum was carried out using standard laboratory procedures. The result of the preliminary phytochemical screening of the leaf extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolia revealed that alkaloid was deeply present in the leaf extract of O. gratissimum; while saponin was deeply present in the leaf extract of G. latifolia. The result also revealed the presence of tannin, saponin, flavonoid, cardiac glycoside and phenol in the leaf extracts of O. gratissimum. The result of the mean phytochemical composition of the leaf extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolia revealed higher composition of alkaloid (1.89±0.014mg/100mg) in O. gratissimum. The result also revealed high composition of flavonoid (1.89±0.014mg/100mg) in the leaf extract of O. gratissimum. The leaf extract of G. latifolia gave higher composition of saponin (2.11±0.021mg/100mg) and alkaloid (2.02±0.014mg/100mg). The leaf extract of O. gratissimum had the least composition of saponin (0.65±0.028mg/100mg); while G. latifolia had the least composition of tannin (0.70±0.014mg/100mg). The result of the percentage proximate composition of the leaf extracts of Ocimum gr revealed higher composition of carbohydrate (44.12±0.318%) in the leaf extract of O. gratissimum; while the leaf extract of G. latifolia had higher composition of protein (33.15±0.078%). This study justifies the use of O. gratissimum and G. latifolia leaves as vegetables and in treatment of certain diseases such as diabetes, hypercholesterolemia and liver problems. The results of the study demonstrate that O. gratissimum and G. latifolia may be consumed daily for health benefits.
... In concordance with the current observation, an earlier finding associated this potential with saponin fractions present in the methanolic extract of the plant (Morebise, 2015). The lower activity of its aqueous leaf extract is a very common observation when compared with the methanolic leaf extract (Eleyinmi, 2007). Minimal or absence of activity of the aqueous extract against some test strains as presented, was also, reported in other studies (Nwinyi et al., 2008;Nduche et al., 2018). ...
The epidemiological consequences of co-infections by enteric, wound, opportunistic, and drug-resistant pathogens, underscore the need for alternative and multi-target therapeutic approaches. Phytochemical properties of some plants are widely known but their potential utility as cheaper multi-target therapeutic options, have rarely been investigated. In the current work, Gongronema latifolium, Psidium guajava, and Aspilia africana extracts were studied for their potential utility as multi-target therapeutic alternatives. The plants were screened for phytochemical constituents. Based on the CLSI disc diffusion assay, the sensitivities of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa to the plants’ extracts were tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the extracts against susceptible bacteria was determined by CLSI broth microdilution protocols. The major families of plant bioactive compounds were detected, with alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids common to the three plants investigated. The plant extracts showed variable activity against the test bacteria (activity index, AI range = 0.43 – 2.59), while the highest activity based on the MIC was recorded for P. guajava (MIC range = 25- 100mg/ml). These results provide the basis of the plants’ therapeutic uses in folk medicine. Their activity index suggests the need for further investigation of their phytochemical components for potential medicinal application. The P. guajava methanolic extract with consistent activity across the test bacteria suggests its potentials in the formulation of multi-target antibiotic therapies
... The decreasing levels of aminotransferases indicated a reduction in hepatocyte damage and the presence of hepatoprotective compounds in the AEGL. The phytochemical constituents of G. latifolium have been reported to have effects on cellular proteins possessing some enzymatic activities [15,33]. Also, a previous study by Meng et al. [34] from China, showed the hepatoprotective effect of 10 medicinal plants including Amomum kravanh and Pueraria lobata by lowering the levels of AST and ALT. ...
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have a number of side effects. However, some medicinal herbs have anti-inflammatory properties with few side effects. This study aimed to determine the effect of the aqueous extract of Gongronema latifolium (AEGL) leaves on the level of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in rabbits. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to determine the effect of the AEGL on the activities of pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNFα), and regulatory cytokine (TGF-β) in rabbits. Also, a colorimetric method was performed to evaluate the levels of AST and ALT. Overall, the weight of the animals increased until the 21st day and then slightly decreased in the last week of treatment. AEGL showed significant (p < 0.05) inhibitory activity against pro-inflammatory and regulatory cytokines. The greatest inhibitory activities against TNF-α (21 days) and TGF-β (14 days) were obtained at a dose of 400 mg/kg of AEGL. No hepatotoxicity was observed within a 28-day period. This study showed that AEGL can be used as a safe herbal anti-inflammatory and immu-nomodulatory treatment. Further clinical trials are needed to approve this potential.
... Antilipid peroxidative activity of GL in streptozotocin-induced diabetes was reported by Nwanjo et al. [15] Antibacterial activity has also been reported for GL. [16] Hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects have also been reported. [12,14,15] ...
Introduction
Metabolic diseases are multifactorial resulting from genetic, physiological, behavioral, and environmental influences. Genetic influence alone does not suffice to explain the rate at which these diseases have increased. Diet manipulations during critical developmental periods have been used to identify their contribution to obesity and diabetes development in offspring. Gongronema latifolium (GL) has been used for many generations for medicinal and nonmedicinal purposes. The leaves of GL are primarily used as spice and vegetable in traditional folk medicine.
Aim
The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of postweaning consumption of aqueous leaf extract of GL on obesity indices in young adult offspring.
Materials and Methods
Adult female Wistar rats were used and pregnancy was achieved by introducing matured male Wistar rats of proven fertility at the ratio of two females to one male during proestrus. At the day of delivery, adult female rats were randomly divided into two groups; Group I (normal control) and Groups II–IV (GL extract-treated group). The offspring of the different maternal groups also assumed their mothers' group. Group I was the normal control group while Groups II–IV were given 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of GL extract, respectively. At postnatal day (PND), 21 offspring were weaned from their mothers and assumed the group of their mothers till PND 42. Parameters such as body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, body weight-waist circumference ratio, insulin level, liver enzymes (ALT, ALP, and AST), and oral glucose tolerance were assessed in the experimental animals.
Results
There was a significant decrease in anthropometric indices (body weight, BMI, waist circumference, body weight-waist circumference ratio) and serum ALT, ALP, and AST levels in the young adult offspring of the GL extract group. However, there was a significant ( P < 0.05) increase in insulin level in offspring whose mothers consumed GL extract when compared to the values of the normal control.
Conclusions
This study showed that postweaning consumption of GL had significant effects on anthropometric indices, hepatoactivity, insulin sensitivity, and blood glucose level.
... It is harvested from forest in southeastern states of Nigeria and some other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. It has been reported that aqueous and methanolic extracts of Gongronema latifolium exhibited hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, antioxidative, antibacterial activities and emulsifying properties , Ugochukwu and Badady, 2002, Ugochukwu and Badady, 2003, Ogundipe et al., 2003, Oshodi et al., 2004, Eleyinmi, 2007. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the hepatotoxic effect of methanol leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium in albino rats. ...
Gongronema latifolium is highly medicinal in nature. The fundamental ingredients used for medicinal purposes are stored in the various parts of the plant such as the fruits, seeds, leaves, root and stem. This present study is aimed to evaluate the hepatotoxicity effect of methanolic leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium on albino rats. This study was divided into five groups normal control groups: received commercial rat feed and water, group 2: received 1000 mg/kg b.w. of leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium, group 3: received 500 mg/kg b.w of leaf extract of G. latifolium, group 4; received 250 mg/kg of leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium, and group 5: received 125mg/kg of leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium. The result shows a significant (p<0.05) increase in serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total and conjugate bilirubin when compared to the normal control not giving the extract. Administration graded dosage of 1000mg/kg and 500mg/kg body weight significantly (p<0.05) increased the liver damage marker enzymes when compared with groups that received low dosage of 250mg/kg and 125mg/kg body weight and the normal control groups. The histopathological study revealed severe portal inflammation without steatosis and moderate portal inflammation in groups that received 1000mg/kg and 500mg/kg. Therefore, these results suggested that methanol leaf extracts of Gongronema latifolium possess hepatotoxic properties and strict caution must be observed when using the plant extract as a natural remedy of any disease.
... It is harvested from forest in southeastern states of Nigeria and some other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. It has been reported that aqueous and methanolic extracts of Gongronema latifolium exhibited hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, antioxidative, antibacterial activities and emulsifying properties , Ugochukwu and Badady, 2002, Ugochukwu and Badady, 2003, Ogundipe et al., 2003, Oshodi et al., 2004, Eleyinmi, 2007. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the hepatotoxic effect of methanol leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium in albino rats. ...
Gongronema latifolium is highly medicinal in nature. The fundamental ingredients used for medicinal purposes are stored in the various parts of the plant such as the fruits, seeds, leaves, root and stem. This present study is aimed to evaluate the hepatotoxicity effect of methanolic leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium on albino rats. This study was divided into five groups normal control groups: received commercial rat feed and water, group 2: received 1000 mg/kg b.w. of leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium, group 3: received 500 mg/kg b.w of leaf extract of G. latifolium, group 4; received 250 mg/kg of leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium, and group 5: received 125mg/kg of leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium. The result shows a significant (p<0.05) increase in serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total and conjugate bilirubin when compared to the normal control not giving the extract. Administration graded dosage of 1000mg/kg and 500mg/kg body weight significantly (p<0.05) increased the liver damage marker enzymes when compared with groups that received low dosage of 250mg/kg and 125mg/kg body weight and the normal control groups. The histopathological study revealed severe portal inflammation without steatosis and moderate portal inflammation in groups that received 1000mg/kg and 500mg/kg. Therefore, these results suggested that methanol leaf extracts of Gongronema latifolium possess hepatotoxic properties and strict caution must be observed when using the plant extract as a natural remedy of any disease.
... On the other hand, SFA with 14, 16, or 18 carbons have been reported to be more efficient against Gram-negative bacteria (Desbois and Smith 2010). Moreover, other studies have shown that medicinal plant and algal extracts rich in saturated fatty acids display an antibacterial action against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (Agoramoorthy et al. 2007;Eleyinmi 2007). The FM50 and UM50 extracts almost exclusively comprised SFA, and this could explain why these extracts exhibited a broader antibacterial action than NE80. ...
Research on immunotherapeutic agents has become a focus for the treatment of fish diseases. The ability of algae to produce secondary metabolites of potential interest as immunotherapeutics has been documented. The present research intended to assess antiviral and antibacterial activities of macro- and microalgae extracts against viral and bacterial pathogens and explore their immunomodulatory potential using zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae as a model organism. The cytotoxicity and antiviral activity of eight methanolic and ethanolic extracts from two macroalgae (Fucus vesiculosus, Ulva rigida) and two microalgae (Nannochloropsis gaditana, Chlorella sp.) were analyzed in established fish cell lines. Six extracts were selected to evaluate antibacterial activity by disk diffusion and growth inhibition assays. The three most promising extracts were characterized in terms of fatty acid composition, incorporated at 1% into a plant-based diet, and evaluated their effect on zebrafish immune response and intestinal morphology in a short-term feeding trial. All extracts exhibited in vitro antiviral activity against viral hemorrhagic septicemia and/or infectious pancreatic necrosis viruses. Methanolic extracts from F. vesiculosus and U. rigida were richer in saturated fatty acids and exhibited in vitro antibacterial action against several bacteria. Most promising results were obtained in vivo with F. vesiculosus methanol extract, which exerted an anti-inflammatory action when incorporated alone into diets and induced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, when combined with the other extracts. Moreover, dietary inclusion of the extracts improved intestinal morphology. In summary, the results obtained in this study support the potential of algae as natural sources of bioactive compounds for the aquaculture industry.
... G. latifolium is used as leafy vegetable and spice for sauces, soups and salads owing to its sharp-bitter and sweet tastes, showing evidence for more phytochemicals such as saponins, alkaloids and so on [16,17]. It is also used for spicing local beer, stems often chewed as chewing sticks and generally for treating diarrhea, cough, diabetes, high blood pressure and many more [18][19][20][21]. ...
Leafy vegetables are part of African households and these vegetables are eaten for their nutritive and medicinal uses. Scarcity of the vegetables has increased the demands. However, environmental pollution is a challenge on their safety. Gongronema latifolium, Piper guineense, Lasianthera africana, Heinsia crinata vegetables obtained from different markets in Lagos, Nigeria. Phytochemical, proximate and heavy metal analyses of the vegetables were carried out. These four vegetables were shown to be rich in nutrients. They also contained appreciable secondary metabolites-saponins, alkaloid etc. content of which may vary except terpenoids. However, mineral and heavy metal analyses revealed the ranges of K(29.43-68.09 mg/kg), Mg(26.33-28.41 mg/kg), Pb(0.01-0.03 mg/kg), Mn(2.44-21.84 mg/kg), Ag(0.01-0.24 mh/kg), Zn(0.54-1.34 mg/kg), Cd(0.01-0.02 mg/kg), Fe(2.17-3.92 mg/kg), Ni(1.22-1.46 mg/kg) and Na (1.84-4.32 mg/kg) in all the vegetables. These metals are within or below the W.H.O and other known world agencies' permissible limits. Thus, the vegetables are safe for consumption as at the time of this research. Original Research Article Oluwole et al.; AJRIB, 5(2): 42-52, 2021; Article no.AJRIB.65681 43 However, despite the fact that the heavy metals' concentration of the vegetables are within or below permissible limits, variation occurred in metallic compositions of the vegetables. Thus, this may serve as an indicator that the sources or locations in which these vegetables are grown before they are taken to markets should be monitored.
... Plants with such constituents and with disease salvaging potency are collective known as medicinal plants. Different authors have defined medicinal plants in acceptable terms within the research community [40][41][42][43][44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51]. ...
This study evaluated the phytochemical screening, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and antioxidant activity of Curcurbitapepo L. using its leaf sample with standard methods. The sample used for the study was procured from Imo State University school farm and was properly identified. Result of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, phlobactannins, proteins, and anthraquinnones, while the GC-MS analysis revealed a total of 78 compounds, out which Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (C24H38O4) had the highest molecular weight, 2,4,6-Octatriene, 2,6-dimethyl- (C10H16) had the highest peak area of 10.21% while Morphinan-6-ol, 4,5-epoxy-N-methyl-, (5α 6α- (C17H21NO2) had the highest retention time. The antioxidant activity of the studied sample was enhanced against the control. Some of the compounds as revealed by GC-MS analysis could be of healthcare or industrial importance. There is need for further studies on the leaf sample to ascertain further the observations of the present study. This study has evaluated the phytochemical screening, GC-MS analysis and antioxidant activity of C.pepo L. using its leaf sample.
... Presently, thousands of studies have revealed the medicinal potentials of different plants as well as different parts of plants [29][30][31][32][33]. Further studies have also linked the constituents of both edible and non-edible portion of plants to phytoactivity, of which many are bioactive in nature [31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38][39]. With the phyto and bioactivity of constituents found in plants, they are able to show potency against diseases and disease causing pathogens [40][41][42][43][44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51]. ...
Phytochemistry and antioxidant activity of Irvingiagabonensis (Bush mango) seed sample were evaluated. Dried milled seeds of I.gabonensis popularly known as “ogbono” passed through phytochemical screening, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and antioxidant studies. Tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, and reducing sugars were among the phytochemicals found present after screening. About 20 constituents were revealed by the GC-MS analysis out of which 1,3-O-Benzylidine glyceryl-2-myristate had the highest molecular weight, 2-Undecanone had the highest peak area of 45.39% whereas 3-Dibenzofuranamine had the highest retention time. Some of these constituents could have one or two applications in medicinal, food or cosmetic industries. I.gabonensis seeds showed better antioxidant activity against the control at concentrations considered in this study. Some of these constituents as well could be behind the observed antioxidant activity. This study has evaluated the phytochemistry and antioxidant activity of I.gabonensis (Bush mango) seed sample.
... Apart from being used as a food supplement, natural amino acids are also used for other purposes. For example, several research groups have reported that common amino acids or related compounds could show anticancer [16,17] and antimicrobial [18][19][20] activities or even prevent some diseases [21][22][23]. In addition to those medicinal properties, natural amino acids also show herbicidal activities against some plants [24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32]. ...
Amino acids have a wide range of biological activities, which usually rely on the stereoisomer presented. In this study, glycine and 21 common α-amino acids were investigated for their herbicidal property against Chinese amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) and barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv.). Both d- and l-isomers, as well as a racemic mixture, were tested and found that most compounds barely inhibited germination but moderately suppressed seedling growth. Various ratios of d:l-mixture were studied and synergy between enantiomers was found. For Chinese amaranth, the most toxic d:l-mixtures were at 3:7 (for glutamine), 8:2 (for methionine), and 5:5 (for tryptophan). For barnyard grass, rac-glutamine was more toxic than the pure forms; however, d-tryptophan exhibited greater activity than racemate and l-isomer, indicating the sign of enantioselective toxicity. The mode of action was unclear, but d-tryptophan caused bleaching of leaves, indicating pigment synthesis of the grass was inhibited. The results highlighted the enantioselective and synergistic toxicity of some amino acids, which relied upon plant species, chemical structures, and concentrations. Overall, our finding clarifies the effect of stereoisomers, and provides a chemical clue of amino acid herbicides, which may be useful in the development of herbicides from natural substances.
... The family is a rich source of drugs that have found use both in traditional and modern medicine. Several species of the family Apocynaceae have been reported to have anti-schizophrenic, anti-hypertensive, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimalarial properties [12][13][14][15] . The study species -Gongronema latifolium, Vincetoxicum rossicum and Marsdenia edulis are shrubs of the Apocynaceae family that are found in the tropical forests of Nigeria (Plate 1). ...
... The family is a rich source of drugs that have found use both in traditional and modern medicine. Several species of the family Apocynaceae have been reported to have anti-schizophrenic, anti-hypertensive, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimalarial properties [12][13][14][15] . The study species -Gongronema latifolium, Vincetoxicum rossicum and Marsdenia edulis are shrubs of the Apocynaceae family that are found in the tropical forests of Nigeria (Plate 1). ...
... E. coli on the other hand was resistant to Ampicillin, Erythromycin and Tetracyclin with zones of inhibition of 6, 0 and 0 respectively. Ciprofloxacin had the highest zone of inhibition on E .coli and S. aureus in conformation with [14] with diameters 37 mm and 35 mm respectively showing that ciprofloxacin has very high antibacterial effect on the two test organisms. Gentamycin also had a considerable effect on the two organisms tested with zones of 32 and 28 mm for E. coli and S. aureus respectively. ...
Man’s use of medicinal plants in treating illnesses is as old as human existence and many plants have been used for this purpose because of their phytochemical constituents that prove many times to be antimicrobial. The antibacterial activity of the leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium and Costus afer on Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Escherichia coli (ATCC 25923) was investigated using standard microbiological procedures of sub-culturing, identity confirmation, water and ethanol extraction of leaves and sensitivity testing via agar well diffusion method. Results revealed that S. aureus and E. coli were both inhibited by the aqueous extract of C. afer with zone diameter of 16 mm and 15 mm respectively as well as the ethanolic extract of C. afer with diameter of 18mm and 15 mm respectively. However, aqueous and ethanolic extracts of G. latifolium proved ineffective against the strains of E. coli and S. aureus used in this study. Results of minimum inhibitory concentration revealed MIC of the aqueous extract of C. afer on E. coli and S. aureus to be 50 mgml-1 and 25 mgml-1 respectively while that of the ethanolic extracts of C. afer was 12.5 mgml-1 and 6.25 mgml-1 for E. coli and S. aureus respectively. Comparatively E. coli showed high sensitivity to Ciprofloxacin, Gentamycin and Septrin with zones of inhibition of 37, 32 and 24 respectively and resistant to Ampicillin, Erythromycin and Tetracycline with zones of inhibition of 6, 0 and 0 respectively. S. aureus on the other hand proved sensitive to Ciprofloxacin, Erythromycin, Gentamycin and Tetracycline with zones of inhibition of 35, 28, 29 and 34 respectively and resistant to Ampicillin and Septrin with zones of inhibition of o respectively. This study has revealed that some positive effect can be achieved against S. aureus and E. coli infections using C. afer at good concentrations. Better results could also be achieved using ethanol as extracting medium with instead of water as is common practice.
... Elucidation of the bioactive components in Gongronema latifolium (Benth) may contributes to its ongoing phytochemical and biological characterization; and promote its dietary use in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. Owing to the extensive ethnopharmacological use of this food herb and its widely reported anti-hyperglyceamic actions, it is considered as a unique vegetal resource agents that may modulate metabolic syndrome such as hyperglyceamia, diabetes, and obesity [38][39][40]. Bioprospecting such bioactive agents from GLB may be achieved more rapidly by employing in vitro and in silico techniques which are characterized by search space minimization and resources maximization. In this study, we demonstrated the inhibitory actions of four pregnane phytochemicals alongside their source chromatographic fractions derived from GLB against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and sucrase in vitro. ...
This study employed in vitro and in silico techniques to screen isolated pregnane phytochemicals (P1-P4), as well as their source pregnane-rich chromatographic fractions, which were derived from Gongronema latifolium Benth (GLB), for their inhibitory potentials against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and sucrase enzyme activities. The results show that, most pregnane-rich chromatographic fractions and isolated compounds exhibited good inhibitory activities against α-amylase, and α-glucosidase enzymes. Among the isolated compounds, marsectohexol (P2) is the most favourable structure that showed inhibition against α-amylase (IC 50 = 3.712 µg/mL) when compared with the reference inhibitor, acarbose ((IC 50 = 15.418 µg/mL). Based on negative and low value of ∆G (Gibb's free energy), docking scores revealed that, marsectohexol has the highest binding affinity (− 8.8 kcal/mol) to human pancreatic α-amylase (HPA) as compared to the standard acarbose (− 8.1 kcal/mol). Marsectohexol and the other phytocompounds were also found to dock into the active site of HPA; interacting with key catalytic amino acid residues (ASP197, GLU233 and ASP300), which are known to involve in the nucleophilic, and the acid/base catalysis of the enzyme. Although, the pregnane phytocompounds have considerable high affinity binding to the human lysosomal α-glucosidase, they interacted with pockets other than the active site. In conclusion, at least, marsectohexol and three other constituent pregnane phytochemicals of GLB are potential inhibitors of the carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes. These compounds may account for the anti-hyperglyceamic and antidiabetic potentials of this food herb.
... The stem is sometimes used as chewing stick [10,[17][18]39].The plant has wide application in folkric medicine against abnormal blood glucose levels, diarrhoea, and tussive [10,[17][18]42]. Its bioactive constituents are effective against disease inducing microorganisms and certain diseases [43][44][45]. ...
The study was carried out to investigate the protective effects of bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extracts of Vernonia amygdalina and Gongronema latifolium against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity and liver injury in rats. Forty (n=40) male Wistar albino rats were procured and separated into five groups. Groups I and II served as normal control and experimental control respectively. Groups III to V served as test groups. Rats of experimental control (group II) and test groups were induced with lethal dose of gentamicin. Test groups III and IV were placed on herbal formulation of aqueous extracts of V .amygdalina and G. latifolium respectively, whereas rats in test Original Research Article Constance et al.; AJRB, 7(4): 12-20, 2020; Article no.AJRB.59205 13 group V received bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extracts of V. amygdalina and G. latifolium. Nephrotoxic indices such as urea reduced significantly (p<0.05) in test groups (III, IV, and V) when compared to experimental control (group II) and normal control (group I). Creatinine also reduced significantly (p<0.05) in test groups III and V against group II (experimental control), and increased insignificantly (p>0.05) in test group V when compared to normal control (group I). Rats induced with gentamicin had upsurge in liver enzymes indicating possible compromise of hepatocellular integrity but the ameliorating effects of the herbal formulations were seen clearly in test groups in this study as they tried to protect the hepatocellular integrity. The bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extract of 5% v/v each of V. amygdalina and G. latifolium offered the best protection as observed in this study. This study has revealed the protective effects of bi-herbal formulation of aqueous extract of V. amygdalina and G. latifolium against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity and liver injury in rats.
ABSTRACTMoringa oleifera is a very important plant for its medicinal value. Various parts ofthe plant such as the leaves, roots, seed, bark, fruit, flowers and immature pods actas cardiac and circulatory stimulants, possess antitumour, antipyretic, antiepileptic,antinflammatory, antiulcer. Other important medicinal properties of the plantinclude antispasmodic, diuretic, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antioxidant,antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antifungal activities. M. oleiferaparts are being employed for the treatment of different ailments in the indigenoussystem of medicine. In addition, M. oleifera seeds possess water purifying powersby flocculating Gram – positive and Gram – negative bacterial cells. M. oleiferaseeds can also be used as a less expensive bioabsorbent for the removal of heavymetals. The chloroform and ethanol extracts of seeds and leaf of M. oleifera wereinvestigated for antimicrobial activity against some selected food – bornemicroorganisms as a first step in the screening of the extracts for preliminarysanitizing/preservative properties on foods. The results of the phytochemicalanalysis revealed differences in the presence of the phytochemicals among theextracts. Saponins were detected in all the extracts while tannins were onlydetected in M. oleifera leaf chloroform extract. The MIC values ranged between2.0 and >4.0mg/ml for all the organisms. M. oleifera seed chloroform extract wasonly active against E. coli and Salmonella typhimurium. The MIC values rangedbetween 1.0 and >4.0mg/ml for the tested organisms respectively. Antifungalactivity result revealed 100% inhibition in growth of Mucor and Rhizopus speciesby M. oleifera seed chloroform extract at concentration of 1mg/ml.
Keywords: Moringa oleifera, Seed, Leaf, Antimicrobial, Phytochemistry, Sanitizer,Food
Phytochemical compounds are secondary metabolites produced by plants in which some have medicinal uses. The aim of this study is to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the phytochemical composition of G. latifolium leaf extract. Fresh and healthy leaves of the medicinal plant of G. latifolium leaf were harvested, washed thoroughly in distilled water and dried at room temperature for 7 days. The dried leaf was milled to fine powder. The pulverized plant was weighed and used for the phytochemical analysis. Based on qualitative analysis, the results show the presence of tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, reducing sugar, cardiac glycoside, protein and carbohydrate, while steroids was absent. The quantitative analysis of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids and tannins were done and the results obtained were expressed as a mean± SEM in each group, analysed using ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test P<0.05 considered as significant. The quantitative analysis revealed that alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids and tannins had mean results of 9.85±1.50, 9.66±0.77, 6.83±6.25 and 4.54±6.70 mg/100mg respectively. This result shows that G. latifolium leaf extract possesses an appreciable level of phytochemicals which contributed to its efficacy in the treatment of diseases such as helminthiasis.
Diabetes Mellitus is a systemic metabolic disorder caused by relative or absolute insulin secretion deficiency or resistance, characterized by hyperglycemia. It has affected 5% of the world’s population and accounts for about 10 % of total health care expenditure in many countries. The present investigation was carried out to explore the proximate, phytochemical compositions and antihyperglycemic potentials of Nauclea latifolia Smith and Azadirachta indica A. Juss. The selected plant parts were subjected to solvent extraction using three solvents of varying polarity (hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol), followed by phytochemical screening. Some of the extracts were analyzed for their antihyperglycemic activity using in vitro assays such as α-amylase inhibition assay and glucose uptake by yeast cells. The phytochemical analysis showed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, steroids, terpenoids, and glycosides in various amounts. The proximate composition revealed the following: moisture content (9.00 %); ash content (5.33 – 8.00 %), crude fiber (23.75 – 33.75 %); oil content (12.50 – 12.86 %) and carbohydrate (6.00 – 31.49 %). The results of the assays suggest that the methanol extract of the stem bark of Azadirachta indica A. Juss showed the highest value of inhibition (87.61 %) at 0.1 mg/ml concentration when compared to acarbose (56.0 %) used as the control/standard drug. It is noteworthy that various levels of inhibition are not concentration-dependent. The percent glucose uptake of methanol extract of Azadirachta indica A. Juss was recorded highest (49.49 %) at 1.0 mg/ml. This study’s finding favors the use of these medicinal plants for the management of diabetes which might be due to the presence of bioactive phytoconstituents inherent in them.
E. icoli, iS.iaureus, iBacillusspp iand iother ibacteria icause igreat idamage iin ifood, ibeverage iand ipharmaceutical iindustries iin iWest iAfrica.iIllnesses icaused iby ithese iorganisms ihave ialso ibeen ion ithe irise iin irecent iyears, imaking iit idifficult ifor ifood istorage ias icustomers iare ilooking ielsewhere ifor isolutions.iThe iuse iof inatural iand iherbal iextracts ias ipreservatives iand imedicines ihas ibeen iproven iin irecent itimes ito ibe iof igreater iadvantage iover ithe isynthetic idrugs iand ichemical ipreservatives.iLocally, iGongronema ilatifolium ihas ibeen iused iin ithe ipreservation iof ifruits iand itreatment iof iailments.iIt iis iproposed ithat ifurther iresearch iis ineeded iin ithe iuse iof iGongronema ilatifolium ifor imedicinal iand ipreservative ipurposes.iThis istudy iis iaimed iat ishowing ithat iorganic iextracts igotten ifromG.ilatifolium iis ieffective iin igrowth iinhibition iand idestruction iof iboth igram ipositive iand igram inegative ihealth ideteriorating icausing ibacteria. iThis iis idone iby iextracting ithe iorganic imatter ifrom ialready iprepared iGongronemalatifolium ileaves iusing ithe iSoxhlet iapparatus iand itesting iit ion idifferent ifive ibacteria iobtained ifrom ipure istrains iand icultured iin ithe ilab.Results igotten ifor ithe iantimicrobial iactivity ishowed ithat ithe iethane iextracts ifrom iGongronema ilatifolium iexhibited ia imaximum izone iof iinhibition i(10 imm) iagainst iStaphylococcus iaureus i(MIC i= i5 icfu/ml), iwhile ithe iethyl iacetate iextracts ishowed ithe ileast izone iof iinhibition i(1 imm) ito iStaphylococcus iaureus i(MIC i= i0 icfu/ml).iThe imethanolic iextracts ishowed ithe imaximum izone iof iinhibition i(9.1 imm) ito iEscherichia icoli i(MIC i= i4 icfu/ml) iwhile ithe iethyl iacetate iextracts ishowed ithe ileast izone iof iinhibition i(1 imm) ito iEscherichia icoli i(MIC i= i0 icfu/ml).iThis iresult ihas iproven ithe ibasis ifor ithis iplant ito ibe iused iparticularly iin ithe itreatment iof iillness icaused iby imicroorganisms
Gongronema latifolium Benth., is listed among the important vegetable with medicinal attributes. Its native habitat currently threatened in Nigeria and there is death of molecular genetic information important for breeding and conservation purposes. To study the species genetic diversity, 50 accessions were collected from South Eastern Nigeria where the species is endemic and was subjected to molecular evaluation using the non-coding internal transcribed spacer (ITS 4 and 5) location. Relatively high within population gene diversity and low nucleotide (base) diversity was identified among the fifty (50) accessions. AMOVA analysis highlighted 93% within population diversity (variations). FST = 0.074 genetic differentiation was recorded for genetic diversity. Principle component analysis (PCA) segregated the accessions into four large groups (A-D), along non-geographical lines; with four outliers’ accessions; AwkCH051 (Akwa Ibom), EnuCH014 (Enugu), EboCH036 and EboCH037 (Ebonyi). Expectedly, the species recorded low-moderate genetic diversity common for organisms experiencing decreasing cover range. Enugu recorded the least within population diversity and Ebonyi showed higher diversity than states and might constitute the core of a possible genetic centre for the species. The outlier accessions represent potential parental lines for breeding and improvement programmes. Conservation efforts comprising in situ and ex situ strategies are required to arrest the declining diversity of the species in its native range across Southern Nigeria. Conservation and improvement efforts will sustain the uses of the plants, reduce poverty and improve the livelihood of gatherers, farmers and vendors of the plant, who are particularly women in the region.
Pollution monitoring of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in a typical peri-urban area in Ora-Eri, Nigeria has been unchecked. Thus, unified evaluation process was developed to assess the pollution load index and potential health risk to inhabitants in mapped regions. The environmental risk was evaluated using contamination factor, geo-accumulation index and Nemerow integrated index. The source of heavy metal pollution was identified by Pearson correlation statistics. Public health risk caused by intake of leafy vegetables and soil exposure were estimated in regard to location of the farmland. The soil was non-contaminated by lead (Pb), arsenic (As), selenium (Se) and chromium (Cr) but gongronema latifolium was contaminated with As exceeding WHO/FAO limit. The bioaccumulation of PTEs in the vegetable follows this order: Se > Pb > As > Cr. The retention of selenium in leaf is high because is an essential metalloid. The pollution status of the studied locations ranged from low to moderate. Arsenic is the main contributor to the ecological contamination. The potential hazard health risk ranged from 5.37E-03 to 2.75E-02 for adults and 5.40E-02 to 2.60E-01 for children. The cancer risk for adults (2.43E-06 to 1.24E-05) and children (8.75E-05 to 1.15E-04) exceeded the acceptable standard (1 × 10⁻⁶) signifying gradual cancer effects. Therefore, the estimated hazard index and total cancer risk revealed that children are more prone to potential health risk than adults. Nevertheless, further continuous works should be carried out to monitor health risk in humans especially children and the control management policy of the peri-urban area should be adopted.
Anxiety disorders are serious medical illnesses that affect approximately 19 million American adults. To cope with anxiety, people employ potentially harmful strategies like alcohol, cigarettes, medication, withdrawal etc. which may cause panic disorder to worsen. Gongronema latifolium (GL) is one of the medicinal plants used in the treatment of ailment including mental disorders. This study was therefore aimed to elucidate effects of administration of ethanolic leaves extract of fear and anxiety using light/dark transition box. Thirty (30) adult male Swiss white mice were assigned into three groups of ten mice each, thus: control, low and high dose groups placed on 0.9% normal saline, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of ethanolic leaves extract of GL respectively. All the animals were allowed food and water ad libitum. Results showed significant (p<0.001) increase in the frequency of line crosses, rearing activities in the extract treated groups when compared to the control. There was a corresponding decrease (p<0.001) stretch attend posture, freezing, grooming frequency and grooming duration in the test groups when compared to the control. These indices show that the extract treated groups of mice exhibited decreased fear and anxiety behaviours when compared to the control group. In conclusion, extract of Gongronema latifolium could be used as an anxiolytic for anxiety related disorders due to its ability to attenuate fear and anxiety related behaviours in mice.
Anxiety disorders are serious medical illnesses that affect approximately 19 million American adults. To cope with anxiety, people employ potentially harmful strategies like alcohol, cigarettes, medication, withdrawal etc. which may cause panic disorder to worsen. Gongronema latifolium (GL) is one of the medicinal plants used in the treatment of ailment including mental disorders. This study was therefore aimed to elucidate effects of administration of ethanolic leaves extract of fear and anxiety using light/dark transition box. Thirty (30) adult male Swiss white mice were assigned into three groups of ten mice each, thus: control, low and high dose groups placed on 0.9% normal saline, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of ethanolic leaves extract of GL respectively. All the animals were allowed food and water ad libitum. Results showed significant (p<0.001) increase in the frequency of line crosses, rearing activities in the extract treated groups when compared to the control. There was a corresponding decrease (p<0.001) stretch attend posture, freezing, grooming frequency and grooming duration in the test groups when compared to the control. These indices show that the extract treated groups of mice exhibited decreased fear and anxiety behaviours when compared to the control group. In conclusion, extract of Gongronema latifolium could be used as an anxiolytic for anxiety related disorders due to its ability to attenuate fear and anxiety related behaviours in mice.
Learning and memory are vital attributes of human intelligence. These processes underlie the very nature of our self-awareness, planning and execution of task. The number of people living with dementia worldwide is currently estimated at 35.6 million. About 80% of the world’s population depend on herbal remedies to curb mental disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of administration of ethanolic leaves extract of Gongronema latifolium (GL) on learning and memory in mice. Thirty (30) adult male Swiss white mice were assigned into three groups of ten mice each. Group I served as the control. Groups 2 and 3 received 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg of GL extract respectively. All the animals were allowed food and water ad libitum. Learning and memory was assessed using the Morris water-maze. Results showed that the swimming latencies during the acquisition and reversal trainings, and probe trial were significantly (p<0.001) decreased in the extract treated groups when compared with the control. The south-east duration was significantly (p<0.001) increased in the extract treated groups when compared with the control group. There was a corresponding decrease (p<0.001) in the south-east duration in the extract treated groups when compared to the control. In conclusion, extract of GL enhances visio-spatial learning and cognitive memory. It could therefore be of therapeutically use in cases of memory loss or impairment. Keywords: Gongronema latifolium, learning, memory, Morris water maze, mice.
Worldwide interest in use of plants based natural products (PBNPs) has been growing, and its beneficial effects being rediscovered for the development of novel drugs. Literature survey on indigenous traditional knowledge bestows ethnopharmacological potentials of PBNPs that has inspired current research in drug design and discovery; PBNPs provide baseline for the development of novel drug leads against various pharmacological targets. Studies indicate that Cymbopogon martini Essential Oil (CMEO) exhibit wide range of biological activities such as hepatoprotective, antifungal, insecticide, antioxidant and antibacterial. Pharmacological properties in Palmarosa Essential Oil (PEO) may be due to the presence of compounds like 4-Decen-6-yne, (Z), 2-Ethylimino-4-methyl-pent-3enenitrile, Dihydrocarvyl acetate, 2-Methylbenzaldehyde, Geranyl butyrate, 1,5,9,9Tetramethyl-1,4,7-cycloundecatriene. However, its application is limited because of the odor, color and taste. In the present study, GCMS based profile of bioactive phytocompounds in essential oil of Cymbopogon martinii along with its physiochemical, biological, molecular, pharmacological and drugable properties has been envisaged. Keywords: Cymbopogon martinii Essential Oil (CMEO); Pharmacological Activity; ADMET Properties; Bioactive Compounds; Plant Based Natural Products (PBNPs);
The effect of botanical pesticides as an insect pest control agent has been proven in several studies. Despite capable of controlling pests, botanical pesticides have not been reported to promote plant growth. One technique for making botanical pesticides served in dual function is to combine them with beneficial microbes. This study was aimed to determine the compatibility of 3 isolates of Bacillus sp. and 3 isolates of Pseudomonas sp. against botanical pesticides. The botanical pesticides were made from a mixture of Ageratum conyzoides , Aglaia odorata , and Azadirachta indica leaves. The solvent used 96% ethanol, and the process of making botanical pesticides was performed using a rotary evaporator at 45˚C. The compatibility test was performed in vitro by dropping 10 µl of botanical pesticides on the bacterial culture. Tests were carried out using various concentrations, namely 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The test results showed that Bacillus sp. A and Pseudomonas sp. E strain were compatible on all assay concentrations. Bacillus sp. A and Pseudomonas sp. D and Pseudomonas sp. E were compatible with the concentrations of 0 to 75%. Furthermore, Bacillus sp. B, Bacillus sp. C, and Pseudomonas sp. F were compatible with the assay concentrations of 0 to 50%.
Crude methanolic extracts of five selected edible plant foods were tested for hypoglycemic activity in alloxanized mice. Fasting blood sugar levels were reduced significantly at differing rates. The order of their antidiabetic activity were H. sabdariffa, A. occidentalis, S. americanum, V. amygdalina, G. latifolium, H. sabdariffa, A. occidentalis and S. americanum, utilized at a dose of 100 mg/kg, had similar activity as chlorpropamide (5 mg/kg), which was used as a reference standard, in that they reduced blood sugar levels in mice below the initial values.
Several leafy vegetables species (n = 17) found in Nigeria were analysed for their proximate chemical composition, mineral constituents, energy values, phytin and oxalate content in the fresh and air-dried material. The dry vegetables contained on average, 19·3 g/100 g crude protein (CP). 15·3 g/100 g crude fibre (CF), 12·7 g/100 g ether extract (EE), 17·4 g/100 g ash and 89·9 g/100 g dry matter (DM) while the fresh counterparts contained, on average, 4·2, 3·2, 0·6, 7·3 and 17·6 g/100 g CP, CF, EE, ash and DM, respectively. Marked variations were observed in the proximate compositions of all the vegetables analysed as indicated by the high coefficients of variation. Potassium, sodium, calcium and phosphorus were the most abundant minerals in the dry samples with mean values of 3·7, 3·8, 2·5 and 1·2 g/100 g, respectively. Similarly, mean values of 4·4, 6·0, 0·9 and 0·8 g/100 g, respectively, were recorded for potassium, sodium, calcium and phosphorus in the fresh samples. Copper was the least abundant mineral in both the fresh and the air-dried samples. The mean energy value was 2787 kcal/kg with a range of 2192 kcal/kg in Amaranthus hybridus to 3732 kcal/kg in Manihot esculentus. The dry vegetables generally had higher phytate and oxalate values than the fresh ones. There were distinct familial differences in these anti-nutrient constituents as indicated by the high coefficients of variation of 39·5 and 88·9% for phytate and oxalate, respectively. The nutritive potentials of the vegetables are highlighted. Dietary implications of the anti-nutrients are also discussed, and the need to develop food/feed safe programmes involving these inherent factors emphasised.
Undoubtedly medicinal plants are relevant in both developing and developed nations of the world as sources of drugs or herbal extracts for various chemotherapeutic purposes. Also the use of plant-derived natural compounds as part of herbal preparations as alternative sources of medicaments continues to play major roles in the general wellness of people all over the world. The African continent contains some of the richest biodiversity in the world, and abounds in plants of economic importance and plants of medicinal importance which when developed would reduce our expenditure on imported drugs to meet our health needs. Herbal-based and plant-derived products can be exploited with sustainable comparative and competitive advantage. This review presents some indigenous African plants with chemotherapeutic properties and possible ways of developing them into potent pharmacological agents using biotechnological approaches.
Preliminary studies of flavonoids have been realised in five native species from Tafí del Valle (Tucumán, Argentina) used in popular medicine. Most of compounds detected were flavonoids mono and dihydroxylated in B ring. Screening for antimicrobial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative microorganisms has been realised with Lippia turbinata, Satureja parvifolia, Sambucus peruviana, Verbena officinalis and Chenopodium graveolens. The total extracts of flavonoids of each plant were tested and four species studied showed antimicrobial activity.
Physicochemical and sensory characteristics of melon milk samples prepared from toasted, autoclaved, boiled and germinated melon seeds were determined. The germinated melon milk (GMM) had higher protein and ash contents but lower pH and viscosity than the other treated milk samples. Toasting the melon seeds improved the ash, protein, total solids and soluble solids of melon milk more than the boiling and autoclaving processes. The mean sensory scores showed that the GMM was rated lower than the other types of processed milk samples for all the sensory attributes evaluated. The toasted melon milk (TMM) had higher sensory ratings for color, mouthfeel and flavor and was generally preferred to the other treated melon milk samples.
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The effect of the protein precipitants acetone, acetonitrile, perchloric acid and trichloroacetic acid on free amino acid concentrations in supernatants from ovine plasma and bovine serum albumin solutions was determined. The organic precipitants decreased (P < 0.05) free amino acid concentrations in a protein concentration dependent manner while the acid precipitants had no effect. Key words: Amino acids, protein precipitating agents
Wild plant foods in the Sahel region of West Africa play an important role in the diets of local residents. During periods of grain shortage, people in rural Niger increase their reliance on wild plant foods to supplement their diets. We report the partial nutrient content of the pit of the seed Sclerocarya birrea, a snack food eaten by children in rural Niger. The pit contained relatively large amounts of copper (24.8μg/g dry wt), magnesium (4210μg/g dry wt), and zinc (62.4μg/g dry wt). The protein content of the pit was high (36.4% of dry wt); however, the protein fraction contained relatively low proportions of leucine, phenylalanine, lysine, and threonine. Fatty acids accounted for 47mg/g dry wt of the pit, two-thirds of which was due to oleic acid. The essential fatty acid linoleic acid was present (24.5mg/g dry wt), but the other essential fatty acid, α-linolenic acid, was absent. Such data are useful for health and nutrition program planning by governmental and non-governmental organizations in Niger. The consumption of daniya pits by just children highlights the need to better understand the cultural context of how wild plant foods are used in a particular local context.
Four New Pregnane Glycosides from Gongronema latifolium (Asclepiadaceae)
Four so far unknown pregnane biosides have been isolated from the chloroform extract of the leaves of Gongronema latifolium Benth. et Hook. (Asclepiadaceae). From one- and twodimensional NMR experiments (NOE difference spectroscopy, ROESY, H,H-COSY, C,H-COSY, HMBC) their structures have been established as 3-O-[6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-canaropyranosyl]-17β-marsdenin (1a), 3-O-[6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-oleandropyranosyl]-17β-marsdenin (1b), 12-O-acetyl-3-O-[6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-canaropyranosyl]-17β-marsdenin (1c) and 11-O-acetyl-3-O-[6-deoxy-3-O-methyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-canaropyranosyl]-17β-marsdenin (1d).
The 1981 FAO/WHO/UNU report on protein and energy requirements makes significant advances in the application of science. Here it is summarized and reviewed with emphasis on areas of uncertainty and differences in approach since 1971. The convenient procedures for making estimates of energy requirements leave out some important minor factors, thus allowing debate and reconsideration of when and how they can be accounted for properly. Judgements are made when appropriate data is unavailable, for example protein requirements in the elderly. A controversial issue may be a health judgement, which could be interpreted to mean that increased physical activity rather than low-calorie diets is the route to lowering the prevalence of obesity and improving long-term health.
Chromolaena odorata (Siam weed) has been classified as a weed plant in West Africa. Data from C. odorata foliage after 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks of regrowth showed that the leaf fraction had a crude protein content above 194 g kg–1 dry matter (DM) and an average leaf to stem ratio of 2·1:1. Chemical analysis of the leaf fraction of an 8-week-old regrowth indicated a high crude protein content (258 g kg–1 DM) and a high degradable nitrogen content (60·7 g N kg–1 digestible organic matter), but low neutral-detergent fibre (331 g kg–1 DM), acid-detergent lignin (53·1 g kg–1 DM), total extractable phenolic (37·1 g kg–1 DM), extractable tannin (0·72 absorbance at 550 nm) and extractable condensed tannin (1·4 g kg–1 DM) contents. In sacco degradability analysis of the 8-week-old regrowth leaf sample showed a high 48 h organic matter (935 g kg–1 DM) and crude protein (953 g kg–1 DM) degradability. The leaf sample had an organic matter degradability of 670 g kg–1 DM as estimated by cumulative gas production in vitro after 24 h incubation. There was little or no phenolic-related antinutritive factors in C. odorata. Additionally, leaf samples had no effect on rumen protozoa activity estimated as the rate of [14C]leucine Selenomonas ruminantum bacterial protein breakdown. Data from this study suggest that C. odorata leaves are of high nutritive value and might have the potential to be used as a protein supplement to ruminants. There is need for further investigation to test whether C. odorata leaves may have any deleterious effect on the host animal.
Studies were conducted to determine the biochemical composition of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook f.) at different stages of growth. Analyses were carried out at 12 and 50 weeks after planting on stems, leaves and roots, while seeds were analysed 8 and 32 weeks, respectively, after antethesis. Proximate moisture and carbohydrate content decreased in stems, leaves, roots and seeds with age, while ash, crude fibre and crude fat increased with age in stems, leaves, and roots but not in seeds. Elemental composition generally increased with age. In older stems, magnesium (50.5 mg/100 g) and calcium (40.5/100) were highest, while phosphorus (10.6 mg/100) and zinc (6.80 mg/100 g) were highest in older leaves compared to their younger ones. Young leaves, however, had highest magnesium (8.69 m/100 g) and iron (3.60 mg/100 g). Older seeds were richer in phosphorus (954 mg/100 g), potassium (632 mg/100 g) and iron (9.82 mg/100 g) while older roots had higher potassium (883 mg/100 g), calcium (150 mg/100 g) and magnesium (103 mg/100 g) than their younger counterparts. Young roots, however, had higher levels of iron (24 mg/100 g) and copper 2.24 mg/100 g). Antinutrients increased with age in the stems, roots and seeds. Young leaves, which are often preferred for human consumption, were higher in cyanide (60.1 mg/100 g.DM) and tannin content (40.6 mg/100 g DM) than older ones. Oxalate content (10.0 mg/100 gDM) and phytate content (48.8 mg/100 gDM) were higher in the older leaves than the younger ones. Some of the antinutrients in the leaves were above safety limits for human consumption. The authors suggest that young leaves be properly cooked in order to remove antinutrient effects before consumption. Old fluted pumpkin roots had very high levels of antinutrients: oxalate (2600 mg/100 gDM), cyanides (84.2 mg/100 gDM), tannins (60.1 mg/100 gDM) and phytates (84.4 mg/100 gDM) and may constitute potent human poisons. Younger pumpkin seeds may be nutritionally preferred for consumption since they contain less antinutrients than older seeds. However, mature pumpkin seeds contain high potassium, iron and crude fat (56.24%) and hence could be further developed to increase world vegetable oil production.
The proximate composition, mineral constituents and amino acid profile of four important legumes (chickpea, lentil, cowpea and green pea) were studied in order to evaluate their nutritional performance. Significant (P < 0.05) variations existed among the legumes with respect to their proximate composition, mineral constituent and amino acid profile. Lentil was found to be a good source of protein, while cowpea was good in ash among the grain legumes tested. All four types of legumes were also better suppliers of mineral matter, particularly potassium, phosphorus, calcium, copper, iron, and zinc. However, the concentrations of various mineral constituents was not in good nutritional balance. It was concluded that the four legumes tested were rich in lysine, leucine and arginine and can fulfil the essential amino acid requirement of human diet except for S-containing amino acids and tryptophan. In order to make good, the deficiency of certain essential amino acids in legume protein, they must be supplemented with other vegetables, meat and dairy products (e.g., Whey, yogurt).
The leaves, seeds, flowers, and fruit of many indigenous plants are staples of populations who inhabit the Sahel region of Africa. They serve to supplement the nutrients provided by cereals such as millet and sorghum. However, there is a lack of comprehensive compositional data regarding the nutrient content of these indigenous plants. In this report, we present nutritional data for 24 plant materials collected in Burkina Faso, including their content of amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals. Three plants contained 20 to 37% protein (on a dry weight basis):Vigna sp., Hibiscus esculentus,andParkiia biglobosa.Relative to a WHO protein standard, three plants scored relatively high:Voadzeiia subterranea, Pennisetum americanum,andBixa orellana.Plants which contained large amounts of the essential fatty acids linoleic or α-linolenic acid wereVigna sp., Hibiscus esculentusseeds,Parkiia biglobosaseeds, andVitex donianafruit. Three plants were rich in iron:Adansonia digitata, Bixa orellana,andXylopia sp.The fruit and seeds ofHibiscus esculentuswere an excellent source of zinc. The plant foods with the highest calcium content wereAdansonia digitataleaves,Hibiscus sp.,andBombax costatum.These data show that in terms of both quality and quantity there are numerous spontaneous desert plants that can serve as significant sources of essential amino acids, essential fatty acids and trace minerals for populations living in the western Sahel.
Three underutilized legumes from Nigeria, Brachystegia eurycoma, Tamarindus indica and Mucuna flagellipes, have been subjected to standard analytical techniques in order to evaluate proximate composition, physicochemical properties and contents of nutritional valuable elements and fatty acids of the seeds and oils. The proximate analysis indicated that the oil content was 5.87 ± 0.30, 7.20 ± 0.45 and 3.77 ± 0.21 g/100 g for B. eurycoma, T. indica and M. flagellipes, respectively. The seeds are rich in protein and carbohydrate, the protein content ranging from 11.82 ± 0.25 g/100 g–24.94 ± 0.18 g/100 g dry matter. These compare favourably with high protein animal sources like oyster, beef, pork and marine fishes. The iodine value of two of the oils place them in the non-drying group of oils, while the composition of all the oils compare well with those of rape seed, sesame, sunflower and groundnut seed oils. This suggests their use as edible oils.Analyses of the oils for fatty acids indicate that the oils contain linoleic acid which is one of the three essential fatty acids. The dominant fatty acids however are linoleic, palmitic, oleic and stearic acids with oleic acid having the highest percentage 24.13–31.50%. Eight nutritional valuable minerals were determined in the seed flours. The seeds are rich in potassium 52.1 mg/100 g–131 mg/100 g. They also contain significant concentration of iron 4.55 mg/100 g–8.20 mg/100 g.
Seventeen browse plants eaten by cattle in Umudike, Abia State of Nigeria were subjected to nutritional evaluation. The plants were classified into heavily, moderately and occasionally browsed species based on their frequency of browsing by cattle. The highest and the lowest crude protein (CP) values were obtained in Napoleona vogelii (25.55%) and Grewia pubescens (13.65%), respectively. Average CP was highest in the occasionally browsed species (18.62%) and lowest in heavily browsed plants (17.92%). The corresponding value for the moderately browsed plants was 18.35%. The calculated in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) was highest for the heavily browsed (51.32%) plants while the occasionally browsed species had the lowest value (48.69%). Generally, browses contained higher concentration of calcium than phosphorous. The average calcium content of the heavily browsed (1.57%) plants was higher than values obtained for either the moderately (1.38%) or the occasionally browsed plants (1.45%), Phosphorous concentration was however, slightly higher in the moderately browsed species (0.39%) than in either the heavily or the occasionally browsed (0.37%) plants. The digestible crude protein (DCP) followed similar pattern with CP and ranged from 9.17% in Grewia pubescens to 20.24% in Napoleona vogelii. The highest mean DCP was obtained from the occasionally browsed plants (13.78%). The acid detergent fibre (ADF) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) values were 48.05, 55.62% for the heavily, 41.60, 48.21% for the moderately and 48.65, 46.75% for the occasionally browsed plants, respectively. CP and DCP content of browse did not necessarily influence browsing intensity or behaviour in cattle.
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An aqueous extract of the dried leaves of Gongronema latifolium was studied for its antiinflammatory activity. The extract significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema, carrageen-induced leucocyte migration in rats and dye leakage induced by intraperitoneal injection of acetic acid in mice.
These results demonstrate the antiinflammatory property of G. latifolium. Copyright
Since the end of the American-Vietnamese War in 1975, more than 1.5 million refugees from Southeast Asia have resettled in the United States. Included among these displaced persons were the Hmong from Laos, a subsistence-based, shifting-cultivation, agricultural society. Hmong who resettled in urban areas have viewed vacant lots adjacent to urban dwellings as potential garden sites for production of familiar herbs and vegetables. In the present study exotic culinary and medicinal herbs grown by Hmong refugees in Sacramento, California were identified and analyzed for mineral composition. The herbs grown in these urban gardens were significant ingredients of Hmong recipes, and herb leaves, or infusions of steamed herb leaves were widely consumed as a component of pregnancy and post-partum diets. Six common species, Acorus gramineus, aff. Angelica, Dendranthema indicum, Eupatorium lindleyana, Sedum aff. sarmentosum, and Sedum aff. spectabile, were used in combination to season chicken. Polygonum odoratum, also widely cultivated, was used to season fish. Exotic culinary-medicinal species with highest mineral profiles included: Basella alba (Ca, Mg, Mn, Zn); Houttuynia cordata (Fe, Mg, Mn); Justica gendarussa (Ca, Mg, Zn); and Polygonum odoratum (Ca, Mg, Mn). While vacant lots sometimes are heavy metal contamination sites, we found no detectable levels of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, or lead in the samples analyzed.
Gongronema latifolium is a rainforest plant, which has been traditionally used in the South Eastern part of Nigeria for the management of diabetes. The effects of oral administration of aqueous and ethanolic G. latifolium leaf extracts for 2 weeks on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were investigated. Both extracts were shown to significantly increase the activity of superoxide dismutase and the level of reduced glutathione. The aqueous extract further increased the activity of glutathione reductase while the ethanolic extract caused a significant increase in the activity of glutathione peroxidase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation. These results suggest that the extracts from G. latifolium leaves could exert their antidiabetic activities through their antioxidant properties.
Diabetes is known to involve oxidative stress and changes in lipid metabolism. Many secondary plant metabolites have been shown to possess antioxidant activities, improving the effects of oxidative stress on diabetes. This study evaluated the effects of extracts from Gongronema latifolium leaves on antioxidant enzymes and lipid profile in a rat model of non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). The results confirmed that the untreated diabetic rats were subjected to oxidative stress as indicated by significantly abnormal activities of their scavenging enzymes (low superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxide activities), compared to treated diabetic rats, and in the extent of lipid peroxidation (high malondialdehyde levels) present in the hepatocytes. The ethanolic extract of G. latifolium leaves possessed antioxidant activity as shown by increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities and decreases in malondialdehyde levels. High levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol, which are typical of the diabetic condition, were also found in our rat models of diabetes. The ethanolic extract also significantly decreased triglyceride levels and normalized total cholesterol concentration.
The present study was designed to investigate the antihyperglycemic effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts from Gongronema latifolium leaves on glucose and glycogen metabolism in livers of non-diabetic and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. To investigate the effects of aqueous or ethanolic leaf extracts of G. latifolium, non-diabetic and STZ diabetic rats were treated twice daily (100 mg/Kg) for two weeks. Diabetic rats showed a significant decrease in the activities of hepatic hexokinase (HK), phosphofructokinase (PFK) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) and an increase in glucokinase (GK) activity. The levels of hepatic glycogen and glucose were also increased in diabetic rats. However, there were no significant differences in the activities of glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) in treated and untreated diabetic rats. The ethanolic extract significantly increased the activities of HK (p<0.01), PFK (p<0.001) and G6PDH (p<0.01) in diabetic rats, decreased the activity of GK (p<0.05) and the levels of hepatic glycogen (p<0.01) and both hepatic (p<0.001) and blood glucose (40%). The aqueous extract of G. latifolium was only able to significantly increase the activities of HK and decrease the activities of GK but did not produce any significant change in the hepatic glycogen and both hepatic and blood glucose content of diabetic rats. Our data show that the ethanolic extract from G. latifolium leaves has antihyperglycemic potency, which is thought to be mediated through the activation of HK, PFK, G6PDH and inhibition of GK in the liver. The ethanolic extract is under further investigation to determine the chemical structure of the active compound(s) and its/their mechanism of action.
Chemical composition of bitter cola (Garcinia kola) seed and hull
- A F Eleyinmi
- D C Bressler
- I A Amoo
- P Sporns
- A A Oshodi
Antimicrobial activity of aqueous extracts of Vernonia amygdalina, Garcinia kola and Gongronema latifolium and their blends on some beer spoilage organisms
- A A Oshodi
- I A Amoo
- A F Eleyinmi
Pye Unicam Atomic Absorption Data Book
- P J Whiteside
- B A Milner
- P.J. Whiteside
Official Methods of Analysis
AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemist), 1990.
Official Methods of Analysis, 15th Ed. Association of
Official Analytical Chemists, Washington, DC.
Pye Unicam Atomic Absorption Data Book, 6th Ed
- P J Whiteside
- B A Milner