1
|
Kacholi DS. A comprehensive review of antimalarial medicinal plants used by Tanzanians. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2024; 62:133-152. [PMID: 38270178 PMCID: PMC10812860 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2024.2305453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Tanzania has rich medicinal plant (MP) resources, and most rural inhabitants rely on traditional healing practices for their primary healthcare needs. However, available research evidence on antimalarial MPs is highly fragmented in the country. OBJECTIVE This systematic review compiles ethnomedicinal research evidence on MPs used by Tanzanians as antimalarials. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic web search was conducted using various electronic databases and grey materials to gather relevant information on antimalarial MPs utilized by Tanzanians. The review was per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The data were collected from 25 articles, and MS Excel software was used to analyse relevant ethnobotanical information using descriptive statistics. RESULTS A total of 227 MPs belonging to 67 botanical families and 180 genera were identified. Fabaceae (15.9%) is the most frequently utilized family. The ethnobotanical recipes analysis indicated leaves (40%) and trees (44%) are the preferred MPs part and life form, respectively. Decoctions (67%) are the dominant preparation method of remedies. Of the recorded MPs, 25.9% have been scientifically investigated for antimalarial activities with positive results. However, 74.1% of MPs have no scientific records on antimalarial activities, but they could be potential sources of remedies. CONCLUSIONS The study discloses a wealth of antimalarial MPs possessed by Tanzanians and suggests a need for research to authenticate the healing potential of antimalarial compounds from the unstudied MPs. Additionally, it indicates that some of the presented MPs are potential sources for developing safe, effective and affordable antimalarial drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Sylvester Kacholi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE), University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kacholi DS. Antiasthmatic Medicinal Plants of Tanzania: An Ethnomedicinal and Ethnopharmacological Review. ScientificWorldJournal 2024; 2024:4420431. [PMID: 39228457 PMCID: PMC11371437 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4420431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditional medicinal plants (TMPs) are a significant part of people's quality of life, offering a natural substitute for modern drugs with numerous side effects. In Tanzania, data on antiasthmatic TMPs are highly fragmented. This review, a comprehensive compilation of ethnobotanical research evidence, aimed to provide a thorough understanding of TMPs used by the locals for asthma management and identify species that have already been investigated in preclinical studies. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. To gather relevant literature on antiasthmatic TMPs used by Tanzanians, a web search using electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Academic Library, Web of Science, SciFinder, Wiley Online Library, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and African Journals Online) was conducted. The scientific names were verified through the Plants of the World Online database, and the collected information was analysed for descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel software. The ethnomedicinal information was obtained from 24 different articles. Microsoft Excel software was used to analyse the data using descriptive statistics. A total of 62 TMPs belonging to 33 families were identified. Species of the Fabaceae (14.5%) and Rubiaceae families (8.1%) are the most utilized. The analysis revealed that trees (42.0%) and leaves (40.0%) are the most utilized life forms and plant parts, respectively. Most plant materials (59.7%) used to make remedies were collected from the wild environment. Decoction (55.0%) is the dominant preparation method of remedies, and the majority (69.0%) were orally administered. Of the recorded TMPs, 22.6% had their in vivo antiasthmatic activity reported in the literature. The review also highlighted the strategic significance of preparations of remedies made from TMPs for discovering and developing new antiasthmatic drugs. However, the need to identify the molecular targets of action and toxicological aspects of the TMPs should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Sylvester Kacholi
- Department of Biological SciencesDar es Salaam University College of EducationUniversity of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 2329, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mogha NG, Kalokora OJ, Amir HM, Kacholi DS. Ethnomedicinal plants used for treatment of snakebites in Tanzania - a systematic review. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:1925-1934. [PMID: 36205572 PMCID: PMC9553154 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2123942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Snake envenomation is one of the neglected health problems in Tanzania. Since most people, especially in rural areas, suffer from its burden, their cases are not documented due to reliance on medicinal plants. Despite the pivotal role of medicinal plants in treating snakebites, there is a paucity of information. OBJECTIVE This review documents medicinal plants used to treat snakebites in Tanzania. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search using electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct and grey literature was conducted to retrieve relevant information on medicinal plants used to treat snakebites in Tanzania. The review was conducted as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The obtained information from 19 published articles was organized and analysed based on citation frequency. RESULTS A total of 109 plant species belonging to 49 families are used as snakebite antivenom in Tanzania. Fabaceae had the highest number of medicinal plants (19.3%). The dominant plant growth forms were trees (35%) and shrubs (33%). Roots were the most frequently used plant part (54%), followed by leaves (26%) and bark (11%). Annona senegalensis Pers. (Annonaceae), Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) (Fabaceae), Suregada zanzibariensis Baill. (Euphorbiaceae), Antidesma venosum E.Mey. ex Tul. (Phyllanthaceae), Cissampelos pareira L. (Menispermaceae) and Dalbergia melanoxylon Guill. & Perr. (Fabaceae) were the most cited medicinal plants. CONCLUSIONS Tanzania has diverse plants used for snakebite treatment; a few have been analysed for their bioactive components. Further study of the phytochemicals may provide scientific information to develop snakebite drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neema Gideon Mogha
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es Salaam University College of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Olivia John Kalokora
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es Salaam University College of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Halima Mvungi Amir
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es Salaam University College of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - David Sylvester Kacholi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es Salaam University College of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bridi H, de Carvalho Meirelles G, Lino von Poser G. Subtribe Hyptidinae (Lamiaceae): A promising source of bioactive metabolites. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 264:113225. [PMID: 32763419 PMCID: PMC7403033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The subtribe Hyptidinae contains approximately 400 accepted species distributed in 19 genera (Hyptis, Eriope, Condea, Cantinoa, Mesosphaerum, Cyanocephalus, Hypenia, Hyptidendron, Oocephalus, Medusantha, Gymneia, Marsypianthes, Leptohyptis, Martianthus, Asterohyptis, Eplingiella, Physominthe, Eriopidion and Rhaphiodon). This is the Lamiaceae clade with the largest number of species in Brazil and high rates of endemism. Some species have been used in different parts of the world mainly as insecticides/pest repellents, wound healing and pain-relief agents, as well as for the treatment of respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. AIM OF THE REVIEW This review aims to discuss the current status concerning the taxonomy, ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry and biological properties of species which compose the subtribe Hyptidinae. MATERIALS AND METHODS The available information was collected from scientific databases (ScienceDirect, Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, ChemSpider, SciFinder ACS Publications, Wiley Online Library), as well as other literature sources (e.g. books, theses). RESULTS The phytochemical investigations of plants of this subtribe have led to the identification of almost 300 chemical constituents of different classes such as diterpenes, triterpenes, lignans, α-pyrones, flavonoids, phenolic acids and monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, as components of essential oils. Extracts, essential oils and isolated compounds showed a series of biological activities such as insecticide/repellent, antimicrobial and antinociceptive, justifying some of the popular uses of the plants. In addition, a very relevant fact is that several species produce podophyllotoxin and related lignans. CONCLUSION Several species of Hyptidinae are used in folk medicine for treating many diseases but only a small fraction of the species has been explored and most of the traditional uses have not been validated by current investigations. In addition, the species of the subtribe appear to be very promising as alternative sources of podophyllotoxin-like lignans which are the lead compounds for the semi-synthesis of teniposide and etoposide, important antineoplastic agents. Thus, there is a wide-open door for future studies, both to support the popular uses of the plants and to find new biologically active compounds in this large number of species not yet explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Bridi
- Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gabriela de Carvalho Meirelles
- Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gilsane Lino von Poser
- Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Muniz Santana Bastos E, Bispo da Silva A, Cerqueira Coelho PL, Pereira Borges JM, Amaral da Silva VD, Moreau da Cunha VH, Costa SL. Anti-inflammatory activity of Jatropha curcas L. in brain glial cells primary cultures. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 264:113201. [PMID: 32814081 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae), a medicinal plant known in Brazil as "Pinhão Manso", is highly adaptable, being cultivated in different tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities have been attributed to different parts of the plant. In the central nervous sytem (CNS), neuroinflammation is mediated by glial cells, mainly by astrocytes and microglia, a process that plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases and other CNS disorders. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic extract obtained from the leaves of J. curcas L. (MEJc) in primary cultures of glial cells submited to inflammatory stimulus. MATERIALS AND METHODS Primary cultures of glial cells obtained from the cerebral cortex of neonate Wistar rats were treated with MEJc (0.1-50,000 μg mL-1) and its fractions (FnJc) (0.1 μg mL-1) with or without lipopolysaccharide of Escherichia coli (LPS) (1 μg mL-1). Cell viability was determined with MTT test. Modifications in glial cell morphology were investigated by means of phase contrast microscopy and May-Grünwald staining. The reactivity of astrocytes and microglia were investigated with immunocytochemistry for GFAP, Iba1 and transcription factor NF-kB, as well as with Greiss reaction to determine the nitric oxide (NO) production. RESULTS MEJc at 0.1-1000 μg mL-1 was non-toxic to glial cells and the DE50 was 10.794 μg mL-1. The treatment with LPS induced the activation of astrocytes and microglia marked by morphological modifications and changes in the expression of GFAP and Iba1, as well as the increase in NF-kB expression and NO production. Treatment with MEJc inhibited the morphological modifications, changes in GFAP and Iba1 expression, and the increase in NF-kB and NO production induced by LPS. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that the MEJc and its fractions modulate inflammatory response of astrocytes and microglia to LPS and may be considered as a potential therapeutic strategy for neuroinflammation-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Muniz Santana Bastos
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal University of Bahia - Institute of Health Sciences, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil; Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Bispo da Silva
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal University of Bahia - Institute of Health Sciences, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Paulo Lucas Cerqueira Coelho
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal University of Bahia - Institute of Health Sciences, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Julita Maria Pereira Borges
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal University of Bahia - Institute of Health Sciences, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Victor Diogenes Amaral da Silva
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal University of Bahia - Institute of Health Sciences, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Vitor Hugo Moreau da Cunha
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil.
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal University of Bahia - Institute of Health Sciences, 40100-902, Salvador, BA, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sadgrove NJ, Madeley LG, Van Wyk BE. Volatiles from African species of Croton (Euphorbiaceae), including new diterpenes in essential oil from Croton gratissimus. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02677. [PMID: 31687511 PMCID: PMC6820369 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The chemistry of essential oils from the leaves of three African species of Croton (C. gratissimus, C. pseudopulchellus and C. sylvaticus) is comprehensively characterised. Two new volatile diterpenes were isolated from C. gratissimus and the structures assigned using 1D and 2D NMR. One is a furanyl-halimane methyl ester (1) assigned as 12-β-furanyl-halima-5,9-dien-4-methylcarboxylate (gratissihalimanoic ester); the other is an abietane ketone (2) assigned as ent-abiet-8(14), 13(15)-dien-3-one, which we have named gratissimone. High relative abundance of diterpenes in a hydrodistilled essential oil is rare and may be considered an interesting discovery. Known non-volatile diterpenes were also isolated, which were assigned as crotohalimaneic acid (3) and hardwickiic acid (4). All diterpenes occur in fresh leaves prior to distillation and extract into apolar or moderately polar solvents, which demonstrates that the two volatiles are not generated during the hydrodistillation. At this stage it is not clear how widespread this diterpene essential oil chemotype is within the species distribution or if any therapeutic effects can be attributed to them. No antimicrobial activity was observed at 1 mg/ml against a range of bacterial strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N J Sadgrove
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa.,Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Surrey, TW9 3AB, UK
| | - L G Madeley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa
| | - B-E Van Wyk
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bathe U, Tissier A. Cytochrome P450 enzymes: A driving force of plant diterpene diversity. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2019; 161:149-162. [PMID: 30733060 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In plant terpene biosynthesis, oxidation of the hydrocarbon backbone produced by terpene synthases is typically carried out by cytochrome P450 oxygenases (CYPs). The modifications introduced by CYPs include hydroxylations, sequential oxidations at one position and ring rearrangements and closures. These reactions significantly expand the structural diversity of terpenoids, but also provide anchoring points for further decorations by various transferases. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in reports of CYPs involved in plant terpene pathways. Plant diterpenes represent an important class of metabolites that includes hormones and a number of industrially relevant compounds such as pharmaceutical, aroma or food ingredients. In this review, we provide a comprehensive survey on CYPs reported to be involved in plant diterpene biosynthesis to date. A phylogenetic analysis showed that only few CYP clans are represented in diterpene biosynthesis, namely CYP71, CYP85 and CYP72. Remarkably few CYP families and subfamilies within those clans are involved, indicating specific expansion of these clades in plant diterpene biosynthesis. Nonetheless, the evolutionary trajectory of CYPs of specialized diterpene biosynthesis is diverse. Some are recently derived from gibberellin biosynthesis, while others have a more ancient history with recent expansions in specific plant families. Among diterpenoids, labdane-related diterpenoids represent a dominant class. The availability of CYPs from diverse plant species able to catalyze oxidations in specific regions of the labdane-related backbones provides opportunities for combinatorial biosynthesis to produce novel diterpene compounds that can be screened for biological activities of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulschan Bathe
- Department of Cell and Metabolic Biology, Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Alain Tissier
- Department of Cell and Metabolic Biology, Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, 06120 Halle, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Weber C, Opatz T. Bisbenzylisoquinoline Alkaloids. THE ALKALOIDS: CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY 2019; 81:1-114. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.alkal.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
9
|
Lin JT, Liu SC, Kuo LC, Yang DJ. Composition of phenolic compounds and antioxidant attributes of Cyclea gracillima Diels extracts. J Food Drug Anal 2018; 26:193-200. [PMID: 29389555 PMCID: PMC9332655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfda.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclea gracillima Diels is a Taiwanese native medicinal herb. However, there are currently few relevant reports on its biochemical activity. In this study, the antioxidant attributes of the ethanol and hot water extracts of this herb were assayed using in vitro models, including the following: 2,2-diphenyl-1-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)-hydrazyl radical scavenging, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, reducing power, and chelating ferrous ions. The following biochemical models were also assayed: inhibition of human low density lipoprotein oxidation, inhibition of human erythrocyte hemolysis, and scavenging oxygen radicals in human blood. The composition and content of flavonoids and phenolic acids in these extracts were also analyzed. The results showed that these extracts with high polyphenol levels presented remarkable antioxidant effects in all assays, especially when extracted with ethanol. Six phenolic acids (mainly ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid) and 12 flavonoids (mainly narigenin, myricetin, naringin, and apigenin) were found in these extracts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jau-Tien Lin
- Department of Medical Applied Chemistry, Chung Shan Medical University, and Department of Medical Education, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, 110, Section 1, Jianguo North Road, Taichung 40201,
Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chuan Liu
- Department of Health Diet and Industry Management, Chung Shan Medical University, and Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, 110, Section 1, Jianguo North Road, Taichung 40201,
Taiwan
| | - Li-Chun Kuo
- Department of Health Diet and Industry Management, Chung Shan Medical University, and Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, 110, Section 1, Jianguo North Road, Taichung 40201,
Taiwan
| | - Deng-Jye Yang
- Department of Nutrition, China Medical University, 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402,
Taiwan
- Corresponding author. Department of Nutrition, China Medical University, 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan. E-mail address: (D.-J. Yang)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Omosa LK, Midiwo JO, Masila VM, Gisacho BM, Munayi R, Chemutai KP, Elhaboob G, Saeed MEM, Hamdoun S, Kuete V, Efferth T. Cytotoxicity of 91 Kenyan indigenous medicinal plants towards human CCRF-CEM leukemia cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 179:177-96. [PMID: 26721219 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Plants from Kenyan flora are traditionally used against many ailments, including cancer and related diseases. Cancer is characterized as a condition with complex signs and symptoms. Recently there are recommendations that ethnopharmacological usages such as immune and skin disorders, inflammatory, infectious, parasitic and viral diseases should be taken into account when selecting plants that treat cancer. AIM The present study was aimed at investigating the cytotoxicity of a plethora of 145 plant parts from 91 medicinal plants, most of which are used in the management of cancer and related diseases by different communities in Kenya, against CCRF-CEM leukemia cell line. MATERIALS AND METHODS Extracts from different plant parts (leaves, stems, stem bark, roots, root barks, aerial parts and whole herb) were obtained by cold percolation using different solvent systems, such as (1:1v/v) dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) and n-hexane (1), methanol (MeOH) and CH2Cl2 (2); neat MeOH (3), 5% H2O in MeOH (4) and with ethanol (EtOH, 5); their cytotoxicities were determined using the resazurin reduction assay against CCRF-CEM cells. RESULTS At a single concentration of 10μg/mL, 12 out of 145 extracts exhibited more than 50% cell inhibition. These include samples from the root bark of Erythrina sacleuxii (extracted with 50% n-hexane-CH2Cl2), the leaves of Albizia gummifera, and Strychnos usambarensis, the stem bark of Zanthoxylum gilletii, Bridelia micrantha, Croton sylvaticus, and Albizia schimperiana; the root bark of Erythrina burttii and E. sacleuxii (extracted with 50% CH2Cl2-MeOH), the stem bark of B. micrantha and Z. gilletii (extracted using 5% MeOH-H2O) and from the berries of Solanum aculeastrum (extracted with neat EtOH). The EtOH extract of the berries of S. aculeastrum and A. schimperiana stem bark extract displayed the highest cytotoxicity towards leukemia CCRF-CEM cells, with IC50 values of 1.36 and 2.97µg/mL, respectively. Other extracts having good activities included the extracts of the stem barks of Z. gilletii and B. micrantha and leaves of S. usambarensis with IC50 values of 9.04, 9.43 and 11.09µg/mL, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provided information related to the possible use of some Kenyam medicinal plants, and mostly S. aculeastrum, A. schimperiana, C. sylvaticus, Z. gilletii, B. micrantha and S. usambarensis in the treatment of leukemia. The reported data helped to authenticate the claimed traditional use of these plants. However, most plants are used in combination as traditional herbal concoctions. Hence, the cytotoxicity of corresponding plant combinations should be tested in vitro to authenticate the traditional medical practitioners actual practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonidah K Omosa
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Jacob O Midiwo
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Veronica M Masila
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Boniface M Gisacho
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Renee Munayi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Gihan Elhaboob
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, P. O. Box 321-11115, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Mohamed E M Saeed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sami Hamdoun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Victor Kuete
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jesus NZT, Falcão HS, Lima GRM, Caldas Filho MRD, Sales IRP, Gomes IF, Santos SG, Tavares JF, Barbosa-Filho JM, Batista LM. Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit (Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant protects the stomach against several gastric ulcer models. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 150:982-8. [PMID: 24184082 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2013] [Revised: 09/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Hyptis suaveolens is used by the traditional population in several parts of the world to treat inflammation, gastric ulcer and infection and is used as a crude drug to relieve symptoms related with gastric ulcer or gastritis in northeaster and central region of Brazil. MATERIALS AND METHODS the standardized ethanolic extract (Hs-EtOHE) and hexanic fraction (Hs-HexF) of Hyptis suaveolens (62,5, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) was evaluated in several models of acute gastric ulcers. The participation of NO was evaluated by pretreatment with L-NAME and non-protein sulfyhydryls by NEM in the gastroprotective effect. RESULTS Hs-EtOHE and Hs-HexF markedly reduced the gastric lesions induced by all ulcerogenic agents (HCl/ethanol, ethanol, NSAIDs and hypothermic restraint-stress). Gastric ulcerations were exacerbated by administration of NEM suggesting that the gastroprotective mechanism of action of Hs-EtOHE and Hs-HexF involves sulfhydryl groups. CONCLUSION Ours results show that an extract of Hyptis suaveolens, administered orally to rodents, present gastro protective activity in different models of acute of gastric ulcer and give some support to the reported claims on the use of this plant as a gastro protective agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Z T Jesus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraiba (UFPB), 58051-970 João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bioactivity of phytochemicals in some lesser-known plants and their effects and potential applications in livestock and aquaculture production systems. Animal 2012; 1:1371-91. [PMID: 22444893 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731107000298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Livestock and aquaculture production is under political and social pressure, especially in the European Union (EU), to decrease pollution and environmental damage arising due to animal agriculture. The EU has banned the use of antibiotics and other chemicals, which have been shown to be effective in promoting growth and reducing environment pollutants because of the risk caused to humans by chemical residues in food and by antibiotic resistance being passed on to human pathogens. As a result of this, scientists have intensified efforts in exploiting plants, plant extracts or natural plant compounds as potential natural alternatives for enhancing the livestock productivity. This paper discusses work on the effects of various phytochemicals and plant secondary metabolites in ruminant and fish species. The focus is on (i) plants such as Ananas comosus (pine apple), Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) and Azadirachta indica (neem) containing anthelmintic compounds and for their use for controlling internal parasites; (ii) plants containing polyphenols and their applications for protecting proteins from degradation in the rumen, increasing efficiency of microbial protein synthesis in rumen and decreasing methane emission; for using as antioxidants, antibacterial and antihelmintic agents; and for changing meat colour and for increasing n-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid in meat; (iii) saponin-rich plants such as quillaja, yucca and Sapindus saponaria for increasing the efficiency of rumen fermentation, decreasing methane emission and enhancing growth; for producing desired nutritional attributes such as lowering of cholesterol in monogastric animals; for increasing growth of fish (common carp and Nile tilapia) and for changing male to female ratio in tilapia; and for use as molluscicidal agents; (iv) Moringa oleifera leaves as a source of plant growth factor(s), antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin C, and various glucosinolates and their degraded products for possible use as antibacterial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and antipest agents; (v) Jatropha curcas toxic variety with high levels of various phytochemicals such as trypsin inhibitor, lectin, phytate and phorbol esters in seeds limiting the use of seed meal in fish and livestock diets; and the use of phorbol esters as bio-pesticidal agent; and (vi) lesser-known legumes such as Entada phaseoloides seeds containing high levels of trypsin inhibitor and saponins, Sesbania aculeate seeds rich in non-starch polysaccharides and Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seeds rich in l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine and their potential as fish feed; Cassia fistula seeds as a source of antioxidants; and the use of Canavalia ensiformis, C. gladiata and C. virosa seeds containing high levels of trypsin inhinitor, lectins and canavanine. The paper also presents some challenges and future areas of work in this field.
Collapse
|
13
|
|
14
|
Oskoueian E, Abdullah N, Ahmad S, Saad WZ, Omar AR, Ho YW. Bioactive compounds and biological activities of Jatropha curcas L. kernel meal extract. Int J Mol Sci 2011; 12:5955-70. [PMID: 22016638 PMCID: PMC3189762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms12095955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2011] [Revised: 07/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Defatted Jatropha curcas L. (J. curcas) seed kernels contained a high percentage of crude protein (61.8%) and relatively little acid detergent fiber (4.8%) and neutral detergent fiber (9.7%). Spectrophotometric analysis of the methanolic extract showed the presence of phenolics, flavonoids and saponins with values of 3.9, 0.4 and 19.0 mg/g DM, respectively. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses showed the presence of gallic acid and pyrogallol (phenolics), rutin and myricetin (flavonoids) and daidzein (isoflavonoid). The amount of phorbol esters in the methanolic extract estimated by HPLC was 3.0 ± 0.1 mg/g DM. Other metabolites detected by GC-MS include: 2-(hydroxymethyl)-2 nitro-1,3-propanediol, β-sitosterol, 2-furancarboxaldehyde, 5-(hydroxymethy) and acetic acid in the methanolic extract; 2-furancarboxaldehyde, 5-(hydroxymethy), acetic acid and furfural (2-furancarboxaldehyde) in the hot water extract. Methanolic and hot water extracts of kernel meal showed antimicrobial activity against both Gram positive and Gram negative pathogenic bacteria (inhibition range: 0-1.63 cm) at the concentrations of 1 and 1.5 mg/disc. Methanolic extract exhibited antioxidant activities that are higher than hot water extract and comparable to β-carotene. The extracts tended to scavenge the free radicals in the reduction of ferric ion (Fe(3+)) to ferrous ion (Fe(2+)). Cytotoxicity assay results indicated the potential of methanolic extract as a source of anticancer therapeutic agents toward breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Oskoueian
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; E-Mails: (E.O.); (W.Z.S.)
| | - Norhani Abdullah
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; E-Mail:
- Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syahida Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Wan Zuhainis Saad
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; E-Mails: (E.O.); (W.Z.S.)
| | - Abdul Rahman Omar
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; E-Mails: (A.R.O.); (Y.W.H.)
| | - Yin Wan Ho
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; E-Mails: (A.R.O.); (Y.W.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nguta JM, Mbaria JM, Gathumbi PK, Gakuya D, Kabasa JD, Kiama SG. Ethnodiagnostic skills of the digo community for malaria: a lead to traditional bioprospecting. Front Pharmacol 2011; 2:30. [PMID: 21738507 PMCID: PMC3125516 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2011.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is a major public health problem that is presently complicated by the development of resistance by Plasmodium falciparum to the mainstay drugs. Thus, new drugs with unique structures and mechanism of action are required to treat drug-resistant strains of malaria. Historically, compounds containing a novel structure from natural origin represent a major source for the discovery and development of new drugs for several diseases. This paper presents ethnophytotherapeutic remedies, ethnodiagnostic skills, and related traditional knowledge utilized by the Digo community of the Kenyan Coast to diagnose malaria as a lead to traditional bioprospecting. The current study was carried out in three Digo villages of Diani sub-location between May 2009 and December 2009. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews, and open and close-ended questionnaires. A total of 60 respondents (34 men and 26 women) provided the targeted information. The results show that the indigenous knowledge of Digo community on malaria encompasses not only the symptoms of malaria but also the factors that are responsible for causing malaria, attributes favoring the breeding of mosquitoes and practices employed to guard against mosquito bites or to protect households against malaria. This knowledge is closely in harmony with scientific approaches to the treatment and control of the disease. The Digo community uses 60 medicinal plants distributed in 52 genera and 27 families to treat malaria. The most frequently mentioned symptoms were fever, joint pains, and vomiting while the most frequently mentioned practices employed to guard against mosquito bites and/or to protect households against malaria was burning of herbal plants such as Ocimum suave and ingestion of herbal decoctions and concoctions. The Digo community has abundant ethnodiagnostic skills for malaria which forms the basis of their traditional bioprospecting techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Mwanzia Nguta
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of NairobiNairobi, Kenya
| | - James M. Mbaria
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of NairobiNairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter K. Gathumbi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of NairobiNairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Gakuya
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of NairobiNairobi, Kenya
| | - John David Kabasa
- Department of Physiology, Makerere UniversityKampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacology, Makerere UniversityKampala, Uganda
| | - Stephen Gitahi Kiama
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, University of NairobiNairobi, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
York T, de Wet H, van Vuuren SF. Plants used for treating respiratory infections in rural Maputaland, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2011; 135:696-710. [PMID: 21497646 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.03.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2010] [Revised: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional remedies are frequently used in treating various respiratory ailments, and are very important in the primary health care of the people living in rural Maputaland, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Novel information gathered from surveys like the present study is important in preserving indigenous knowledge. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the knowledge that the lay people of a rural community in northern Maputaland have about medicinal plants used in the vicinity to treat respiratory infections. MATERIALS AND METHODS Interviews were conducted among 80 homestead inhabitants, using structured questionnaires where convenience sampling was used. The focus was on plants used in treating respiratory infections. Some of the main topics discussed during the interviews were vernacular plant names, plant parts used, harvested amounts, preparation methods, dosage forms and quantities, use of plants in combination as well as the related symptomatic relief associated with respiratory infections. RESULTS The study documented 30 plant species (18 families) which are used to treat respiratory infections by the rural people in the study area. Decoctions made with these plants are mostly taken orally, combined with the use of steaming. To the best of our knowledge, Acanthospermum glabratum, Aloe marlothii, Krauseola mosambicina, Ozoroa obovata, Parinari capensis and Plectranthus neochilus are recorded for the first time globally as medicinal plants used for treating respiratory infections and related symptoms. The indigenous aromatic shrub, Lippia javanica was by far the most frequently used plant species, followed by Eucalyptus grandis (an exotic), Tetradenia riparia and then Senecio serratulloides. Twenty-four different plant combinations were used where the most frequently used combination encountered was Eucalyptus grandis with Lippia javanica. CONCLUSION The large number of different plant species traditionally used against respiratory infections supports previous research on the importance of traditional medicine in the primary health care of this remote area. The finding of new vernacular plant names and plant uses in the current survey shows the importance of the documentation of such ethnobotanical knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T York
- Department of Botany, University of Zululand, Private Bag 1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Makkar HPS, Becker K. Jatropha curcas, a promising crop for the generation of biodiesel and value-added coproducts. EUR J LIPID SCI TECH 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.200800244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
18
|
Ngueyem TA, Brusotti G, Caccialanza G, Finzi PV. The genus Bridelia: a phytochemical and ethnopharmacological review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2009; 124:339-349. [PMID: 19477259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2008] [Revised: 05/17/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 60 species of Bridelia, (Phyllanthaceae) are found throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world, mainly in Africa and Asia. Several Bridelia species are used in popular medicines as antiamebic, antianemic, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, anti-diabetic, antidiarrhoeal, antihelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antinociceptive, antiviral, hypoglycemic and for abdominal pain, cardiovascular, gynecological and sexual diseases. The present paper reviews the traditional usage, the biological activities and the correlated chemical compounds of Bridelia species with emphasis on the validation of the ethnopharmacological uses. The findings in some Bridelia species of, for example, gallocatechin-(4'-O-7)-epigallocatechin (1), quercetin (2), myricetin glycosides (5-6), bridelone (11), bridelonine (12), isoflavone may justify the uses of these species against pains in African and Asian traditional medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T A Ngueyem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Stangeland T, Dhillion SS, Reksten H. Recognition and development of traditional medicine in Tanzania. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 117:290-9. [PMID: 18359588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2006] [Revised: 01/31/2008] [Accepted: 02/02/2008] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to trace developments in Traditional Medicine (TM) and legislation concerning conservation and use of biodiversity in Africa, with Tanzania as a case study. Based on field trips, interviews with different actors, site visits, and literature we explored the history, current status, re-establishment, and development of TM. A summary of laws and regulations concerning forests, access and benefit sharing is presented. During the last decade the Government of Tanzania put forth legislation to address national health needs, traditional knowledge, and the resource base for TM (e.g., practitioners, biodiversity). Our findings indicate that TM is the most common form of health care, and that the HIV pandemic has highlighted the need to work across health sectors. New legislation has facilitated this need. In Tanzania TM is experiencing a renaissance in being formally recognized, integrated into mainstream health care, formal establishment of practitioners, and gaining the interests of different sectors. More studies on bioactivity, safety, domestication, and sustainability of use of medicinal plants are needed. Development of TM can also, other than making a significant contribution to health care and livelihoods, provide income possibilities. It is however yet to be seen if the recent regulations can be made fully operational and implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torunn Stangeland
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, NO-1432 Aas, Norway.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Muthaura CN, Rukunga GM, Chhabra SC, Mungai GM, Njagi ENM. Traditional antimalarial phytotherapy remedies used by the Kwale community of the Kenyan Coast. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2007; 114:377-86. [PMID: 17904318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2007.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2007] [Revised: 06/08/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2007] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
In Kenya, most people especially in rural areas use traditional medicine and medicinal plants to treat many diseases including malaria. Malaria is of national concern in Kenya, in view of development of resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum to drugs especially chloroquine, which had been effective and affordable. There is need for alternative and affordable therapy. Many antimalarial drugs have been derived from medicinal plants and this is evident from the reported antiplasmodial activity. The aim of the study was to document medicinal plants traditionally used to treat malaria by the Digo community of Kwale district. Traditional health practitioners were interviewed with standardized questionnaires in order to obtain information on medicinal plants traditionally used for management of malaria. Twenty-five species in 21 genera and 16 families were encountered during the study. Celestraceae, Leguminosae and Rubiaceae families represented the species most commonly cited. Three plant species, namely; Maytenus putterlickioides, Warburgia stuhlmannii and Pentas bussei are documented for the first time for the treatment of malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C N Muthaura
- Centre for Traditional Medicine and Drug Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, PO Box 54840, Nairobi 00200, Kenya.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Maregesi SM, Ngassapa OD, Pieters L, Vlietinck AJ. Ethnopharmacological survey of the Bunda district, Tanzania: plants used to treat infectious diseases. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2007; 113:457-70. [PMID: 17720340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2007.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2007] [Revised: 05/29/2007] [Accepted: 07/01/2007] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
An ethnobotanical study was carried out in six villages in the Bunda district, Mara Region, Tanzania, where the use of plants still has a special meaning to the society, in the treatment of various diseases. Information was obtained from the traditional healers and other experienced persons, having some knowledge on medicinal plants. Fifty-two plants were reported for use in the treatment of various infectious diseases. These plants belong to 29 families, with Papilionaceae being the most represented. Leaves ranked the highest, especially for use in topical preparations. Oral administration was the most frequently used route of administration. Twenty-one percent of the recorded plants were reported for treating venereal diseases, with syphilis and gonorrhea being the most commonly mentioned. Information providers requested feedback with regard to the plants proven scientifically to be toxic in order to avoid risks while offering their services. From this work it was found out that, people in this area commonly use medicinal plants with trust they have built on the curative outcome witnessed. As the first ethnobotanical study in Bunda district recording 52 plants in a small area covered, publication of this work is expected to open up more studies to record many useful medicinal plants unfolded.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Mgole Maregesi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 65013, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mohagheghzadeh A, Faridi P, Shams-Ardakani M, Ghasemi Y. Medicinal smokes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2006; 108:161-84. [PMID: 17030480 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2006.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2006] [Revised: 08/31/2006] [Accepted: 09/04/2006] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
All through time, humans have used smoke of medicinal plants to cure illness. To the best of our knowledge, the ethnopharmacological aspects of natural products' smoke for therapy and health care have not been studied. Mono- and multi-ingredient herbal and non-herbal remedies administered as smoke from 50 countries across the 5 continents are reviewed. Most of the 265 plant species of mono-ingredient remedies studied belong to Asteraceae (10.6%), followed by Solanaceae (10.2%), Fabaceae (9.8%) and Apiaceae (5.3%). The most frequent medical indications for medicinal smoke are pulmonary (23.5%), neurological (21.8%) and dermatological (8.1%). Other uses of smoke are not exactly medical but beneficial to health, and include smoke as a preservative or a repellent and the social use of smoke. The three main methods for administering smoke are inhalation, which accounts for 71.5% of the indications; smoke directed at a specific organ or body part, which accounts for 24.5%; ambient smoke (passive smoking), which makes up the remaining 4.0%. Whereas inhalation is typically used in the treatment of pulmonary and neurological disorders and directed smoke in localized situations, such as dermatological and genito-urinary disorders, ambient smoke is not directed at the body at all but used as an air purifier. The advantages of smoke-based remedies are rapid delivery to the brain, more efficient absorption by the body and lower costs of production. This review highlights the fact that not enough is known about medicinal smoke and that a lot of natural products have potential for use as medicine in the smoke form. Furthermore, this review argues in favor of medicinal smoke extended use in modern medicine as a form of drug delivery and as a promising source of new active natural ingredients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdolali Mohagheghzadeh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
RAZA M, Choudhary MI, Atta-Ur-Rahman. Medicinal Plants with Anticonvulsant Activities. BIOACTIVE NATURAL PRODUCTS (PART C) 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s1572-5995(00)80034-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
|
24
|
De Smet PA. Traditional pharmacology and medicine in Africa. Ethnopharmacological themes in sub-Saharan art objects and utensils. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 1998; 63:1-175. [PMID: 10340784 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-8741(98)00031-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Drawing from the general description that ethnopharmacology studies the human use of crude drugs and poisons in a traditional context, ethnopharmacological themes in native art can be defined as themes visualizing different features of traditional medicines and poisons, such as natural sources, methods of preparation, containers, usage and implements, target diseases and effects. This review documents that native African art objects and utensils are a goldmine of such ethnopharmacological themes by focusing on the following subjects: (a) objects related to the use of medicines (sources as well as tools for their collection, preparation and keeping); (b) objects related to the use of poisons (e.g. for ordeals, hunting and fishing); (c) objects related to the use of psychotropic agents (e.g. alcoholic beverages, kola nuts, smoking and snuffing materials); (d) pathological representations (e.g. treponematoses, leprosy, smallpox, swollen abdomen, scrotal enlargement, goiter and distorted faces); and (e) portrayals of certain types of treatment (e.g. topical instillations, perinatal care, and surgery). To avoid the impression that ethnopharmacology has little else to offer than armchair amusement, an epilogue outlines the medical relevance of this interdisciplinary science for Western and African societies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P A De Smet
- Scientific Institute Dutch Pharmacists, The Hague, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Omolo OJ, Chhabra SC, Nyagah G. Determination of iron content in different parts of herbs used traditionally for anaemia treatment in East Africa. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 1997; 58:97-102. [PMID: 9406897 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-8741(97)00093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The iron content in different parts of eight plants traditionally used to treat anaemia in Eastern Africa was determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Extracts were made of plant samples using both wet and dry oxidation procedures. Results obtained from both procedures agree significantly and the average of both methods was taken as the iron content in each plant part. In most cases, the values obtained for the rootbark had a higher total iron content than the corresponding leaves and stembark. The prominent iron contents of 35.69 and 35.21 mg/100 g were found in the rootbark of Bridelia cathartica and Lannea stuhlmannii, respectively. The iron content of the decoctions prepared in the traditional way was low. However, the therapeutic potential of the herbs cannot be established on the basis of available iron content alone as other factors play a role in the absorption of iron in the body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O J Omolo
- Department of Chemistry, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Omulokoli E, Khan B, Chhabra SC. Antiplasmodial activity of four Kenyan medicinal plants. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 1997; 56:133-7. [PMID: 9174974 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-8741(97)01521-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
A preliminary antiplasmodial and phytochemical screening of four Kenyan medicinal plants was carried out. The medicinal plants were extracted and tested for in vitro antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine-sensitive (K67) and chloroquine-resistant (ENT36) strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Out of 16 extracts, 12 were active against ENT36 strain while seven were active against K67 strain, that is, IC50 < or = 50 micrograms/ml. The most active extracts on both strains were those of leaves of Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir, and Suregada zanzibariensis Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) with IC50 < or = 10 micrograms/ml. The stembark of Terminalia spinosa Engl. (Combretaceae) and the stems of Dissotis brazzae Cogn. (Melastomataceae) had IC50 < or = 10 micrograms/ml for strains K67 and ENT36, respectively. A preliminary phytochemical analysis of these plants revealed the presence of different classes of primary and secondary metabolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Omulokoli
- Chemistry Department, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gessler MC, Nkunya MH, Mwasumbi LB, Heinrich M, Tanner M. Screening Tanzanian medicinal plants for antimalarial activity. Acta Trop 1994; 56:65-77. [PMID: 8203297 DOI: 10.1016/0001-706x(94)90041-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Forty-three different plant species commonly used in traditional medicine for the treatment of malaria were selected and screened for their antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum in vitro. Thirteen of the 43 species were obtained directly from traditional healers who use these plants for the treatment of malaria. The other plant species were collected on the basis of ethnomedicinal information in the literature. The plant material was collected from Morogoro, Dar es Salaam and Kagera regions in Tanzania. Fifty-eight plant samples from these 43 plant species, including leaves, roots and stem bark, were investigated. Apart from the crude EtOH extracts, petroleum ether (PE), ethyl acetate (EtAc) and H2O fractions of these extracts were also tested. The in vitro testing revealed that 37% of the investigated plants showed strong antimalarial activity with IC50 values below 10 micrograms/ml. The four most active plants included Cissampelos mucronata, Maytenus senegalensis, Salacia madagascariensis and Zanthoxylum chalybeum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M C Gessler
- Swiss Tropical Institute, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Basel
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Chhabra SC, Mahunnah RL, Mshiu EN. Plants used in traditional medicine in eastern Tanzania. VI. Angiosperms (Sapotaceae to Zingiberaceae). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 1993; 39:83-103. [PMID: 8412248 DOI: 10.1016/0378-8741(93)90024-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Fifty-three Angiosperm species (Sapotaceae to Zingiberaceae), which are used by traditional healers in five regions of Eastern Tanzania (Coast, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Morogoro and Tanga) are listed. For each species, the botanical name, vernacular name, collection number, locality, habit, geographic distribution and medicinal uses are given. Additionally, information from the literature on medicinal uses, chemical constituents and pharmacological effects are also provided. Data analysis and conclusions to cover all the six parts of the papers previously published are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Chhabra
- Chemistry Department, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Chhabra SC, Mahunnah RL, Mshiu EN. Plants used in traditional medicine in eastern Tanzania. V. Angiosperms (Passifloraceae to Sapindaceae). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 1991; 33:143-157. [PMID: 1943163 DOI: 10.1016/0378-8741(91)90173-b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Sixty-one Angiosperms (Passifloraceae to Sapindaceae) are listed, which are used by traditional healers in five regions of Eastern Tanzania, namely, Coast, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Morogoro and Tanga. For each species listed, the botanical name, vernacular name, collection number, locality, habit, distribution and medicinal uses are given. Additionally, information from the literature on medicinal uses, chemical constituents and pharmacological effects are also provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Chhabra
- Chemistry Department, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | |
Collapse
|