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Gangaram S, Naidoo Y, Dewir YH, Singh M, Lin J, Murthy HN. Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Barleria albostellata C.B. Clarke Leaf and Stem Extracts. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2396. [PMID: 37446958 DOI: 10.3390/plants12132396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Barleria albostellata (Acanthaceae) is a shrub located in South Africa and is relatively understudied. However, plants within this genus are well known for their medicinal and ethnopharmacological properties. This study aimed to characterise the phytochemical compounds and antibacterial efficacies of B. albostellata. Phytochemical analysis, fluorescence microscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis were performed to determine the composition of compounds that may be of medicinal importance. Crude leaf and stem extracts (hexane, chloroform and methanol) were subjected to an antibacterial analysis against several pathogenic microorganisms. The qualitative phytochemical screening of leaf and stem extracts revealed the presence various compounds. Fluorescence microscopy qualitatively assessed the leaf and stem powdered material, which displayed various colours under bright and UV light. GC-MS chromatograms represents 10-108 peaks of various compounds detected in the leaf and stem crude extracts. Major pharmacologically active compounds found in the extracts were alpha-amyrin, flavone, phenol, phytol, phytol acetate, squalene and stigmasterol. Crude extracts positively inhibited Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Significance was established at p < 0.05 for all concentrations and treatments. These results indicate that the leaves and stems of B. albostellata are rich in bioactive compounds, which could be a potential source of antibacterial agents for treating various diseases linked to the pathogenic bacteria studied. Future discoveries from this plant could advance the use of indigenous traditional medicine and provide novel drug leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serisha Gangaram
- School of Life Sciences, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Yougasphree Naidoo
- School of Life Sciences, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Yaser Hassan Dewir
- Plant Production Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moganavelli Singh
- School of Life Sciences, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Johnson Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
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Cock IE, Luwaca N, Van Vuuren SF. The traditional use of Southern African medicinal plants to alleviate fever and their antipyretic activities. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 303:115850. [PMID: 36306931 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Multiple plant species are used traditionally in southern Africa to treat fever. This review summarises the traditional use, highlights promising plant species and focuses on validation studies to highlight future areas of research. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to critically review the use of southern African plants to alleviate fever. Additionally, an examination of research into those plants was undertaken to highlight gaps in the literature with the aim of stimulating further research in this field. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ethnobotanical books, reviews and primary research studies were searched to identify plant species traditionally used to treat fever in southern Africa and to summarise the current knowledge and identify areas requiring further research. This study was non-biased and did not have any taxonomic preferences, nor did it favour any southern African healing systems over the others. RESULTS The traditional therapeutic uses of 203 southern African plant species to alleviate fever were recorded. Leaves and roots/bulbs/rhizomes were the most commonly used plant part, and they were most commonly prepared as decoctions or infusions and consumed orally. Notably, only twenty-two species (∼11% of the identified species) have been scientifically evaluated for antipyretic properties, with substantially fewer mechanistic studies evident. CONCLUSIONS Despite the availability of ethnobotanical records, the antipyretic properties of southern African medicinal plants are poorly reported. Indeed, the efficacy of most plants is yet to be verified and very few mechanistic studies are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- I E Cock
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia; School of Environment and Science, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia
| | - N Luwaca
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - S F Van Vuuren
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, 2193, South Africa.
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Mianda SM, Invernizzi L, van der Watt ME, Reader J, Moyo P, Birkholtz LM, Maharaj VJ. In vitro dual activity of Aloe marlothii roots and its chemical constituents against Plasmodium falciparum asexual and sexual stage parasites. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 297:115551. [PMID: 35850311 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Aloe marlothii A.Berger (Xanthorrhoeaceae) is indigenous to southern African countries where its aqueous preparations are used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments including hypertension, respiratory infections, venereal diseases, chest pain, sore throat and malaria. AIM OF THE STUDY The aims of this study were as follows: (i) isolate and identify the antiplasmodial active compounds in A. marlothii roots. As the water extract was previously inactive, the dichloromethane:methanol (DCM:MeOH) (1:1) was used, (ii) examine the activity of the isolated compounds against Plasmodium falciparum asexual blood stage (ABS) parasites as well as for transmission-blocking activity against gametocytes and gametes, and (iii) to use in silico tools to predict the target(s) of the active molecules. MATERIALS AND METHODS The crude DCM:MeOH (1:1) extract of A. marlothii roots was fractionated on a reverse phase C8 column, using a positive pressure solid-phase extraction (ppSPE) workstation to produce seven fractions. The resulting fractions and the crude DCM:MeOH extract were tested in vitro against P. falciparum (NF54) ABS parasites using the malaria SYBR Green I based-fluorescence assay. Flash silica chromatography and mass-directed preparative high-performance liquid chromatography were utilised to isolate the active compounds. The isolated compounds were evaluated in vitro against P. falciparum asexual (NF54 and K1 strains) and sexual (gametocytes and gametes) stage parasites. Molecular docking was then used for the in silico prediction of targets for the isolated active compounds in P. falciparum. RESULTS The crude extract and two SPE fractions displayed good antiplasmodial activity with >97% and 100% inhibition of ABS parasites proliferation at 10 and 20 μg/mL, respectively. Following UPLC-MS analysis of these active fractions, a targeted purification resulted in the isolation of six compounds identified as aloesaponol I (1), aloesaponarin I (2), aloesaponol IV (3), β-sorigenin-1-O-methylether (4), emodin (5), and chrysophanol (6). Aloesaponarin I (2) was the most bioactive, compared to other isolated constituents, against P. falciparum ABS parasites exhibiting equipotency against the drug-sensitive (NF54) (IC50 = 1.54 μg/mL (5 μM)) and multidrug-resistant (K1) (IC50 = 1.58 μg/mL (5 μM)) strains. Aloesaponol IV (3) showed pronounced activity against late-stage (>90% stage IV/V) gametocytes (IC50 = 6.53 μg/mL (22.6 μM)) demonstrating a 3-fold selective potency towards these sexual stages compared to asexual forms of the parasite (IC50 = 19.77 ± 6.835 μg/mL (68 μM)). Transmission-blocking potential of aloesaponol IV (3) was validated by in vitro inhibition of exflagellation of male gametes (94% inhibition at 20 μg/mL). In silico studies identified β-hematin and DNA topoisomerase II as potential biological targets of compounds 2 and 3, respectively. CONCLUSION The findings from our study substantiate the traditional use of A. marlothii to treat malaria. To our knowledge, this study has provided the first report on the isolation and identification of antiplasmodial compounds from A. marlothii roots. Furthermore, our study has provided the first report on the transmission-blocking potential of one of the compounds from the genus Aloe, motivating for the investigation of other species within this genus for their potential P. falciparum transmission-blocking activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sephora Mutombo Mianda
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Luke Invernizzi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Mariëtte E van der Watt
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa; Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Gezina, Pretoria, 0031, South Africa.
| | - Janette Reader
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Phanankosi Moyo
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa; Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Lyn-Marié Birkholtz
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Vinesh J Maharaj
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
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Maliehe TS, Mbambo M, Ngidi LS, Shandu JSE, Pooe OJ, Masoko P, Selepe TN. Bioprospecting of endophytic actinobacterium associated with Aloe ferox mill for antibacterial activity. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:258. [PMID: 36192707 PMCID: PMC9531469 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03733-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence of drug resistance among pathogens has resulted in renewed interest in bioprospecting for natural microbial products. METHODS This study aimed to bioprospecting endophytic actinobacterium associated with Aloe ferox Mill for its antibacterial activity. Endophytic actinomycetes were isolated from the gel of A. ferox Mill by surface sterilization technique using actinomycete isolation agar. The isolate with a promising antibacterial activity was identified using 16S rRNA sequence analysis. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract was assessed by the micro-dilution method and its effect on the respiratory chain dehydrogenase (RCD) activity was ascertained by the iodonitrotetrazolium chloride (INT) assay. Fourier transform-infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS) were employed to identify functional groups and the chemical constituents, respectively. RESULTS The actinobacterium was found to be Streptomyces olivaceus CP016795.1. Its extract displayed noteworthy antibacterial activity (MIC ≤1 mg/mL) against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25925), Bacillus cereus (ATCC 10102), and Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922); and showed an inhibitory effect on the RCD activity. FTIR spectrum displayed hydroxyl, amine, and aromatic groups, and the GC-MS revealed 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural as the main constituent (19.47%). CONCLUSIONS S. olivaceus CP016795.1 can serve as a potential source of effective antibacterial compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsolanku Sidney Maliehe
- grid.442325.6Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Zululand, P/ Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa, 3886 South Africa ,grid.411732.20000 0001 2105 2799Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Limpopo, Private bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727 South Africa
| | - Melusi Mbambo
- grid.442325.6Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Zululand, P/ Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa, 3886 South Africa
| | - Londeka Sibusisiwe Ngidi
- grid.442325.6Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Zululand, P/ Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa, 3886 South Africa
| | - Jabulani Siyabonga Emmanuel Shandu
- grid.442325.6Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Zululand, P/ Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa, 3886 South Africa
| | - Ofentse Jacob Pooe
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123School of Life Science, Discipline of Biochemistry, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, 4000 South Africa
| | - Peter Masoko
- grid.411732.20000 0001 2105 2799Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Limpopo, Private bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727 South Africa
| | - Tlou Nelson Selepe
- grid.411732.20000 0001 2105 2799Department of Water and Sanitation, University of Limpopo, Private bag X1106, Sovenga, 0727 South Africa
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Allafchian A, Fathi M, Jalali SAH. Design of polysaccharidic Aloe veragel incorporated PVA/tetracycline electrospun cell culture scaffolds for biomedical applications. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 33:295101. [PMID: 35313292 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac5f97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In this study, hybrid nanofibrous 3D scaffolds containingAloe vera(AV), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) are fabricated by electrospinning for cell culture applications. The role of polysaccharides present in AV gel is found to enhance the biocompatibility of the nanofibrous scaffolds. Different combinations of the polymers were selected to produce homogenous nanofibers with favorable mean fiber diameter and tensile strength. The surface morphology of the products was studied by SEM and it is found that the mean fiber diameter is decreased to about 188 nm upon addition of the AV component. The electrospun scaffolds were investigated by FT-IR spectroscopy to reveal the chemical structure of the samples and their crystallinity was studied by XRD. The hydrophilicity of the scaffolds was tested by optical contact angle measurements and their mechanical strength was examined by tensile strength tests. It is found that PVA is the main component contributing the mechanical stability of the scaffold structure. The fabricated scaffolds presented a more pronounced inhibitory effect against Gram-positive bacterial strains ofS. aureusandB. cereus. Cell culture experiments using fibroblast L929 murine cells reveals that the AV/PVA/TCH scaffolds are promising for cell growth and the cells are capable of achieving a proper cell adhesion and proliferation. The cell viability experiment by MTT assay exhibits the contributing role of AV gel to L929 cell viability on the AV/PVA/TCH scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Allafchian
- Research Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
- Research Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Mohammad Fathi
- Research Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Seyed Amir Hossein Jalali
- Research Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
- Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
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Antibacterial Activity of Some Medicinal Plants in Al Baha Region, Saudi Arabia, Against Carcinogenic Bacteria Related to Gastrointestinal Cancers. J Gastrointest Cancer 2022; 54:51-55. [PMID: 34988907 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-021-00793-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal cancers are the most dangerous cancers all over the world. The gut microbiota dysbiosis increases the risk of GI cancers and induces the host's susceptibility to carcinogenic bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is rising in these bacteria. Thus, discovering new safe and effective antibacterial agents is a worldwide concern. This study evaluates the antibacterial activity of six wild medicinal plants from the Al Bahah region in Saudi Arabia. METHODS Arial parts of Cissus quadrangularis, Aloe castellorum, Psiadia punctulata, Aloe pseudorubroviolacea, Barbeya oleoides, Teucrium yemense were collected and dried for extraction with ethanol. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of these ethanolic extracts against carcinogenic bacteria Bacteroides fragilis, Clostridium ssp., Cutibacterium acnes, Escherichia coli, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Helicobacter pylori, Mycoplasma spp., Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Salmonella enterica, and Treponema pallidum were evaluated to determine its antibacterial activity. RESULTS All extracts showed antibacterial activity with MIC lower than 1 mg/ml. Psiadia punctulata showed higher antibacterial activity, while the Aloe species showed the lowest antibacterial activity. CONCLUSION The studied plants' extracts showed high effectiveness as antibacterial activity against the carcinogenic bacteria related to gastrointestinal cancers due to their high content of pharmaceutical components. These plants could be explored further for the development of new antibacterial products against these carcinogenic bacteria.
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Leitgeb M, Kupnik K, Knez Ž, Primožič M. Enzymatic and Antimicrobial Activity of Biologically Active Samples from Aloe arborescens and Aloe barbadensis. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10080765. [PMID: 34439997 PMCID: PMC8389549 DOI: 10.3390/biology10080765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Antimicrobial resistance is one of the major threats to public health, and additional concerns are reduced efficacy and increased toxicity of synthetically derived drugs. Hence, it is all the more important to research new antimicrobials derived from natural sources. Aloe spp. have long been acknowledged in traditional medicine, as their ability of treating skin and digestive problems, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and other promising properties are known. This study presents the content of various bioactive substances in samples of two Aloe spp., Aloe arborescens and Aloe barbadensis, and their enzymatic, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Obtained bioactive compounds with antimicrobial effect have a huge potential to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that are extremely susceptible to gaining resistance and could be used in versatile applications in the cosmetics, food, medical and pharmaceutical industries. Abstract Recently, the use of Aloe species has become very widespread. These are extensively used as a nutraceutical in a variety of health care products and food supplements. In addition, the occurrence of the quickly adaptable microorganisms, particularly bacteria, which can develop resistance to antibiotics, is a major problem for public health, and therefore, it is necessary to search for new antimicrobials. In our study, the content of total phenols, proanthocyanidins, and proteins in fresh and lyophilized samples of A. arborescens and A. barbadensis and their ethanol extracts was investigated. Furthermore, enzymatic and antioxidant activity of samples were studied. Since antimicrobial activity of fresh samples was determined in our latest research, a more detailed study of antimicrobial effectiveness of A. arborescens and A. barbadensis (lyophilized, extracts) was performed. Ethanol extracts in particular contain higher concentrations of bioactive substances and show the topmost antioxidant activity. The novelty of the study refers to the observation of industrially important enzyme activities such as α-amylase, cellulase, lipase, peroxidase, protease, and transglutaminase in the samples as well as the microbial growth inhibition rates determination (MGIR) at different concentrations of added aloe samples. All samples inhibited the growth of all tested microbial cells. MIC90 for A. arborescens and A. barbadensis were also determined in case of B. cereus, P. aeruginosa, P. fluorescens, and S. aureus. The results of our study tend to give credence to the popular use of both aloes in medicine and in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Leitgeb
- Laboratory for Separation Processes and Product Design, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (K.K.); (Ž.K.); (M.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +386-2-2294-462
| | - Kaja Kupnik
- Laboratory for Separation Processes and Product Design, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (K.K.); (Ž.K.); (M.P.)
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Željko Knez
- Laboratory for Separation Processes and Product Design, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (K.K.); (Ž.K.); (M.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Mateja Primožič
- Laboratory for Separation Processes and Product Design, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Smetanova ulica 17, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (K.K.); (Ž.K.); (M.P.)
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Cock IE, Ndlovu N, Van Vuuren SF. The use of South African botanical species for the control of blood sugar. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 264:113234. [PMID: 32768640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113234] [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: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent diseases globally and is of considerable concern to global health. Approximately 425 million people are estimated to have DM globally and this is predicted to increase to >642 million by 2040. Whilst the prevalence of DM in South Africa is slightly lower than the global average, it is expected to rise rapidly in future years as more South Africans adopt a high calorie "westernised" diet. Traditional medicines offer an alternative for the development of new medicines to treat DM and the usage of South African plants is relatively well documented. AIM OF THE STUDY To critically review the literature on the anti-diabetic properties of South African plants and to document plant species used for the treatment of DM. Thereafter, a thorough examination of the related research will highlight where research is lacking in the field. MATERIALS AND METHODS A review of published ethnobotanical books, reviews and primary scientific studies was undertaken to identify plants used to treat DM in traditional South African healing systems and to identify gaps in the published research. The study was non-biased, without taxonomic preference and included both native and introduced species. To be included, species must be recorded in the pharmacopeia of at least one South African ethnic group for the treatment of DM. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-seven species are recorded as therapies for DM, with leaves and roots most commonly used. The activity of only 43 of these species have been verified by rigorous testing, and relatively few studies have examined the mechanism of action. CONCLUSION Despite relatively extensive ethnobotanical records and a diverse flora, the anti-diabetic properties of South African medicinal plants is relatively poorly explored. The efficacy of most plants used traditionally to treat DM are yet to be verified and few mechanistic studies are available. Further research is required in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- I E Cock
- School of Environment and Science, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia; Environmental Futures Research Institute, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia
| | - N Ndlovu
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
| | - S F Van Vuuren
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa.
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Lima A, Batista-Santos P, Veríssimo E, Rebelo P, Ferreira RB. Differential inhibition of gelatinase activity in human colon adenocarcinoma cells by Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens extracts. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:379. [PMID: 33308217 PMCID: PMC7733245 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aloe's reported bioactivities (anticancer, anti-inflammatory and wound healing) suggest they might inhibit a subgroup of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) called gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9). The goal of the present study was to compare the MMP inhibitory potential of two Aloe species, A. vera and A. arborescens. METHODS Different types of extraction were tested and specific bioactive compounds were quantified. Cancer cell invasion inhibitory activities were measured in vitro using the wound healing assay in human colon cancer cells (HT29). Effects on gelatinase activities were further assessed by dye-quenched gelatin and gelatin zymography. RESULTS Different types of extraction yielded significantly different levels of bioactivities and of bioactive compounds, which might be due to a greater amount of extractable bioactive compounds such as anthraquinones. Both A. arborescens and A. vera have potential as inhibitory agents in cancer cell proliferation via MMP-9 and MMP-2 enzymatic activity inhibition, being able to reduce colon cancer cell proliferation and migration but A. arborescens showed to be a more effective inhibitor of cancer cell migration than A. vera. CONCLUSION This work opens novel perspectives on the mode of action of Aloe species in cancer cell migration and may provide clues as to why there are so many conflicting results on Aloe's activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lima
- Plants for Health and Nutrition, LEAF (Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food), Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Batista-Santos
- Plants for Health and Nutrition, LEAF (Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food), Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Eduarda Veríssimo
- Plants for Health and Nutrition, LEAF (Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food), Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Rebelo
- Plants for Health and Nutrition, LEAF (Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food), Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Boavida Ferreira
- Plants for Health and Nutrition, LEAF (Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food), Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017, Lisbon, Portugal
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Andrea B, Dumitrița R, Florina C, Francisc D, Anastasia V, Socaci S, Adela P. Comparative analysis of some bioactive compounds in leaves of different Aloe species. BMC Chem 2020; 14:67. [PMID: 33292458 PMCID: PMC7602344 DOI: 10.1186/s13065-020-00720-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although a vast number of Aloe species are known, only the Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens species are currently used by cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, the current study aims to complete the existent literature data with new information on the phytochemical composition of some lesser-known Aloe species, with the main focus on carotenoids and fatty acids. Among the analyzed species, Aloe aculeata and Aloe ferox had the highest content in carotenoids, the major pigments being lutein and β-carotene (according to HPLC analysis). The fatty acid profile of each Aloe species was analysed by GC–MS. Linolenic and linoleic acids were the major polyunsaturated fatty acids found in higher percent in Aloe ferox, Aloe spectabilis and Aloe marlothii. Instead, Aloe aculeata proved to have a distinct fatty acid profile, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. Species such as Aloe arborescens and Aloe marlothii proved to have the highest antioxidant potential according to data of DPPH, ORAC, HPS assays, even if the richest one in vitamin C was found to be Aloe spectabilis. Though the scientific research is mainly focused on the common species Aloe barbadensis, the current data suggests that other Aloe species could receive more attention from industry part, being great sources of bioactive compounds.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Bunea Andrea
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rugină Dumitrița
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Copaciu Florina
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dulf Francisc
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Veres Anastasia
- Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Sonia Socaci
- Faculty of Food Science, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Pintea Adela
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Calea Manastur, No. 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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11
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Svitina H, Swanepoel R, Rossouw J, Netshimbupfe H, Gouws C, Hamman J. Treatment of Skin Disorders with Aloe Materials. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:2208-2240. [PMID: 31269881 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190703154244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ and functions as a barrier to protect the underlying tissues against the elements and pathogens, while also fulfilling many physiological roles and biochemical functions such as preventing excessive water loss. Skin disorders vary greatly in terms of origin, severity, symptoms and affect persons of all ages. Many plants have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times including the treatment of skin disorders and diseases. Aloe represents one of the earliest medicinal plant species mentioned in antique scriptures and even in rock art dating back thousands of years. Different Aloe species and materials have been used in the prevention and treatment of skin related disorders. Aloe vera is the most commonly used Aloe species for medicinal purposes. Some of the most prominent skin related applications and disorders that Aloe materials have been investigated for are discussed in this paper, which include cosmetic, radiation, cancer, wound and antimicrobial applications. Both in vitro and in vivo studies are included in the discussions of this paper and comprehensive summaries of all these studies are given in tables in each section. Although some contradictory results were obtained among studies, certain Aloe materials have shown excellent efficacy and exhibited potential for the treatment of skin related disorders and cosmetic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Svitina
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Roan Swanepoel
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Jacques Rossouw
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Happiness Netshimbupfe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Chrisna Gouws
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Josias Hamman
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Hlatshwayo NA, Amoo SO, Olowoyo JO, Doležal K. Efficient Micropropagation Protocol for the Conservation of the Endangered Aloe peglerae, an Ornamental and Medicinal Species. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9040506. [PMID: 32295312 PMCID: PMC7238064 DOI: 10.3390/plants9040506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A number of Aloe species are facing an extremely high risk of extinction due to habitat loss and over-exploitation for medicinal and ornamental trade. The last global assessment of Aloe peglerae Schönland (in 2003) ranked its global conservation status as ‘endangered’ with a decreasing population trend. In the National Red List of South African Plants, the extremely rapid decline of this species has resulted in its conservation status being elevated from ‘endangered’ to ‘critically endangered’ based on recent or new field information. This dramatic decline necessitates the development of a simple, rapid and efficient micropropagation protocol as a conservation measure. An in vitro propagation protocol was therefore established with the regeneration of 12 shoots per shoot-tip explant within 8 weeks using Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2.5 µM meta-topolin riboside (an aromatic cytokinin). The rooting of the shoots with a 100% frequency on half-strength MS medium without any plant growth resulted in additional six shoots produced per cultured shoot. The resultant plantlets were successfully acclimatized with a 100% survival frequency after 6 weeks. Overall, the developed protocol can result in the production of 3906 transplantable shoots that are ready for rooting per annum from a single shoot-tip explant. It is simple and efficient for seedling production in the ex situ cultivation and conservation of the endangered A. peglerae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nontobeko A. Hlatshwayo
- Agricultural Research Council—Vegetable and Ornamental Plants, Private Bag X293, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Department of Biology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, P. O. Box 139, Medunsa 0204, South Africa;
| | - Stephen O. Amoo
- Agricultural Research Council—Vegetable and Ornamental Plants, Private Bag X293, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Correspondence:
| | - Joshua O. Olowoyo
- Department of Biology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, P. O. Box 139, Medunsa 0204, South Africa;
| | - Karel Doležal
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators & Department of Chemical Biology and Genetics, Centre of the Region Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Faculty of Science, Palacký University & Institute of Experimental Botany AS CR, Šlechtitelů 11, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic;
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13
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Cock IE, Van Vuuren SF. A review of the traditional use of southern African medicinal plants for the treatment of fungal skin infections. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 251:112539. [PMID: 31899200 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Human dermatophyte infections are one of the most common classes of infection globally, with an estimated 1.7 billion people contracting at least one infection annually. Southern African ethnic groups used multiple plants to treat dermatophytosis and to alleviate the symptoms, yet the anti-dermatophyte properties of most species remain poorly explored. AIM OF THE STUDY Our study aimed to critically review the literature to document southern African plant species used to treat one or more dermatophytic infections, and to summarise scientific evaluations of these and other plant species. Our study aims to stimulate and focus future studies in this field. MATERIALS AND METHODS A thorough review of the ethnobotanical books, reviews and primary scientific studies were undertaken to identify southern African plants used traditionally to treat dermatophytosis, thereby identifying gaps in the research requiring further study. RESULTS Eighty-nine southern African plant species are recorded as traditional therapies for dermatophytosis. Scientific evaluations of 140 plant species were identified, although most of the species in those studies were selected for reasons apart from their traditional uses. None of those studies examined the mechanism of action of the plant species, and only a single study screened the extracts for toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Despite southern Africa having some of the longest continuous human civilisations globally, as well as unique and diverse flora, and good ethnobotanical records, the anti-dermatophyte properties of southern African medicinal plants remains relatively poorly explored. The efficacy of the majority of plants used traditionally to treat fungal skin disease are yet to be verified and substantial further research is required in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- I E Cock
- School of Environment and Science, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia; Environmental Futures Research Institute, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia.
| | - S F Van Vuuren
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Gauteng, 2193, South Africa
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Ahamed A, Panneerselvam A, Alaklabi A, Arif IA, Ambikapathy V, Thajuddin N. Molecular perspective and anticancer activity of medicinal plants. Saudi J Biol Sci 2020; 27:666-675. [PMID: 32210686 PMCID: PMC6997859 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2019.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate phytochemical constituents from the methanolic extracts of medicinal plants Aloe castellorum and Aloe pseudorubroviolacea. The cytotoxic activity of Aloe castellorum and Aloe pseudorubroviolacea leaf extracts against Human colon cancer cell line (HCT-116) was also assessed. The two medicinal plant extracts having significant cytotoxic activity, meanwhile the methanolic extract of Aloe castellorum shows higher cytotoxic activity than Aloe pseudorubroviolacea extract. The Aloe castellorum shows remarkable activity against respective cell line than control. The characteristic chemical constituents of Aloe castellorum and Aloe pseudorubroviolacea leaf extracts were recognized from Gas chromatography and Mass spectrometry (GC–MS) technique. The molecular docking studies also support the cytotoxic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anis Ahamed
- Prince Sultan Research Chair for Environment and Wildlife, Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Sciences, King Saud University (KSU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Autonomous), Poondi, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Thanjavur, India
- Corresponding author.
| | - A. Panneerselvam
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Autonomous), Poondi, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Abdullah Alaklabi
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim A. Arif
- Prince Sultan Research Chair for Environment and Wildlife, Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Sciences, King Saud University (KSU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - V. Ambikapathy
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Autonomous), Poondi, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Thanjavur, India
| | - N. Thajuddin
- Department of Microbiology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
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Setshego MV, Aremu AO, Mooki O, Otang-Mbeng W. Natural resources used as folk cosmeceuticals among rural communities in Vhembe district municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:81. [PMID: 32164701 PMCID: PMC7076813 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-2869-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin-related diseases affect every individual irrespective of age, gender or social status. Since time immemorial, humans have explored natural resources from their environment for the maintenance of the skin. This explorative survey was conducted to document the natural resources (plant and non-plant materials) used for folk cosmeceuticals by rural communities in Vhembe district municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa. METHODS The research was conducted in six communities namely: Tshakuma, Shigalo, Tshamutilikwa, Luvhimbi (Masikhwa), Khakhanwa, and Folovhodwe in Vhembe district. Random and convenient sampling was used to access the target population. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to interview 71 participants that comprised traditional practitioners, herbalists and laypeople from the study area. Collected data were analysed using both quantitative (for e.g. frequency, use-value and relative frequency of citation) and qualitative (thematic) analytical methods. RESULTS A total of 52 plants from 27 families and 22 non-plant materials were used as folk cosmeceuticals in the study area. The most cited plants included Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Pedaliaceae), Ricinus communis (Euphorbiaceae) and Helinus integrifolius (Rhamnaceae). Trees and shrubs were the most common plant-life form while leaves were the most popular plant part. Pig fats, red ochre (Luvhundi soil) and ashes were the most cited non-plant materials. These documented natural resources are frequently prepared by crushing and mostly used to heal wounds. CONCLUSION Traditional knowledge concerning folk cosmeceuticals is mostly held by elders. The high number of natural resources documented is an indication that Vhembe district is rich in ethnopharmacological knowledge. Scientific investigation of the efficacies and safety of these natural resources is highly recommended as a drive aimed at innovations with benefits to the rural communities who are the custodians of this valuable knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamokete Venolia Setshego
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa
| | - Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa. .,Food Security and Safety Niche Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, North West Province, South Africa.
| | - Obakeng Mooki
- North West Dingaka Association, Central Mafikeng, 2745, South Africa
| | - Wilfred Otang-Mbeng
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Private Bag X11283, Mbombela, Mpumalanga Province, 1200, South Africa
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16
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van Vuuren S, Frank L. Review: Southern African medicinal plants used as blood purifiers. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 249:112434. [PMID: 31812645 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMALOGICAL RELEVANCE Blood purification practices, also referred to as blood cleansing or detoxification, is an ancient concept which is widespread amongst African traditional medicine, but for which no modern scientific basis exists. There prevails considerable ambiguity in defining what a blood purifier is. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of this review is to firstly define what a blood purifier is in the context of African traditional medicine and compare to other cultural and westernized interpretations. Thereafter, this study identifies traditionally used medicinal plants used as blood purifiers in southern Africa and correlates these species to scientific studies, which may support evidence for these "blood purifying plant species". MATERIALS AND METHODS Ethnobotanical books and review articles were used to identify medicinal plants used for blood purification. Databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed and Google Scholar were used to source scientific articles. An evaluation was made to try correlate traditional use to scientific value of the plant species. RESULTS One hundred and fifty nine plant species have been documented as traditional remedies for blood purification. Most of the plant species have some pharmacological activity, however, very little link to the traditional use for blood purification. There has been some justification of the link between blood purification and the use as an antimicrobial and this has been explored in many of the plant species identified as blood purifiers. Other pharmacological studies specifically pertaining to the blood require further attention. CONCLUSION Irrespective of the ambiguity of interpretation, medicinal plants used to "cleanse the blood", play an important holistic role in traditional medicine and this review with recommendations for further study provides some value of exploring this theme in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- S van Vuuren
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, South Africa.
| | - L Frank
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
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Cytotoxic and cytostatic effects of four Annonaceae plants on human cancer cell lines. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2019; 55:723-732. [PMID: 31452061 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-019-00393-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Several species of the Annonaceae plants have been used as complementary medicine for cancer-associated illnesses in some ethnic groups of northern Thailand. This study investigated the cytotoxic and cytostatic activity of methanolic extracts derived from the stems of these plants, including Uvaria longipes (Craib) L.L.Zhou, Y.C.F.Su & R.M.K.Saunders, Artabotrys burmanicus A.DC, Marsypopetalum modestum (Pierre) B.Xue & R.M.K.Saunders, and Dasymaschalon sp. Cell death induction of seven human cancer cell lines and cell cycle analyses were assessed by Annexin V and/or propidium iodide (PI) staining and analyzed by flow cytometry. Treatment of cancer cell lines with the extract of four Annonaceae plants resulted in various cytotoxic activities depending on cell type. The extract of U. longipes exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity capable of inducing cell death of several cancer cell lines, particularly against hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B). This extract was capable of inducing cell cycle arrest at the SubG1 phase. Phytochemical screening of all the extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, sterols, tannins, anthraquinone glycoside, coumarin, and flavonoids. Determination of active compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography standards revealed bullatacin and asiminecin in all the extracts. The extract of Annonaceae stem or its compounds may provide an opportunity for the development of new therapies against cancer.
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Mothibe ME, Kahler-Venter CP, Osuch E. Evaluation of the in vitro effects of commercial herbal preparations significant in African traditional medicine on platelets. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:224. [PMID: 31438931 PMCID: PMC6704509 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2644-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Commercial herbal medicines (CHMs) marketed as immune boosters are gaining wide popularity in South Africa, in the absence of control and regulatory guidelines. These commercially packaged and labelled herbal preparations, acquired in various retail outlets, are used without consulting either a conventional health provider or a traditional health practitioner. Although they are indicated for immune-boosting purposes, they might exert many other beneficial and unwanted effects on physiological systems. Platelets are crucial in haemostasis and important for the immunological system. The aim was to investigate the effect of the CHMs used to strengthen the immune system on the activity of human platelets. METHODS Six CHMs commonly used as African traditional medicines in Pretoria, South Africa, were tested for their effects on healthy, isolated human platelets, using a bioluminescence method. The tested herbal medicines were Intlamba Zifo™, Maphilisa™ Herbal medicine, Matla™ African medicine for all diseases, Ngoma™ Herbal Tonic Immune Booster, Stametta™ Body Healing Liquid, and Vuka Uphile™ Immune Booster and serial-diluted standards of each from 10 to 10,000 times. The luminol-enhanced luminescence activity of the platelets was measured after incubation with the herbal medicines and activation with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) or N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP). RESULTS Five herbal medicines, namely Intlamba Zifo™, Maphilisa™ Herbal medicine, Matla™ African medicine for all diseases, Stametta™ Body Healing Liquid, and Vuka Uphile™ Immune Booster exerted comparable weak inhibitory effects on both PMA and fMLP-induced platelets, which were concentration dependent at high doses, and inversely related to concentration at low doses. Intlamba Zifo™, Matla™ African medicine for all diseases, Stametta™ Body Healing Liquid, and Vuka Uphile™ exhibited weak, but non-systematic stimulatory effects at low doses, which were not statistically significant. Ngoma™ Herbal Tonic Immune Booster had weak, inhibitory effects at high doses and weak stimulatory effects that were inversely related to concentration at low doses. CONCLUSION The findings suggest a potential beneficial role of the CHMs in the suppression of platelets' reactivity and in enhancing the immune system. Caution, however, should be exercised as platelet inhibition and stimulation predispose to the risk of bleeding and thrombosis, respectively.
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Froldi G, Baronchelli F, Marin E, Grison M. Antiglycation Activity and HT-29 Cellular Uptake of Aloe-Emodin, Aloin, and Aloe arborescens Leaf Extracts. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24112128. [PMID: 31195732 PMCID: PMC6600357 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24112128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aloe arborescens is a relevant species largely used in traditional medicine of several countries. In particular, the decoction of leaves is prepared for various medicinal purposes including antidiabetic care. The aim of this research was the study of the antiglycation activity of two A. arborescens leaf extracts and isolated compounds: aloin and aloe-emodin. These phytoconstituents were quantitatively assessed in methanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. In addition, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents were detected. In order to study their potential use in diabetic conditions, the antiglycation and antiradical properties of the two extracts and aloin and aloe-emodin were investigated by means of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH) assays; further, their cytotoxicity in HT-29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells was evaluated by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Furthermore, the ability of aloin and aloe-emodin to permeate the cellular membranes of HT-29 cells was determined in order to estimate their potential in vivo absorption. This assessment indicated that aloe-emodin can substantially pass through cell membranes (~20%), whereas aloin did not permeate into HT-29 cells. Overall, the data show that both the methanolic and the hydroalcoholic A. arborescens extracts determine significant inhibition of glycation and free-radical persistence, without any cytotoxic activity. The data also show that the antiglycation and the antiradical activities of aloin and aloe-emodin are lower than those of the two extracts. In relation to the permeability study, only aloe-emodin is able to cross HT-29 cellular membranes, showing the attitude to pass through the intestinal layer. Overall, the present data surely support the traditional use of A. arborescens leaf extracts against hyperglycemic conditions, while aloin and aloe-emodin as potential drugs need further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmina Froldi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Federica Baronchelli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Elisa Marin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Margherita Grison
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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Gulumian M, Yahaya ES, Steenkamp V. African Herbal Remedies with Antioxidant Activity: A Potential Resource Base for Wound Treatment. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2018; 2018:4089541. [PMID: 30595712 PMCID: PMC6282146 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4089541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The use of traditional herbal remedies as alternative medicine plays an important role in Africa since it forms part of primary health care for treatment of various medical conditions, including wounds. Although physiological levels of free radicals are essential to the healing process, they are known to partly contribute to wound chronicity when in excess. Consequently, antioxidant therapy has been shown to facilitate healing of such wounds. Also, a growing body of evidence suggests that, at least, part of the therapeutic value of herbals may be explained by their antioxidant activity. This paper reviews African herbal remedies with antioxidant activity with the aim of indicating potential resources for wound treatment. Firstly, herbals with identified antioxidant compounds and, secondly, herbals with proven antioxidant activity, but where the compound(s) responsible for the activity has not yet been identified, are listed. In the latter case it has been attempted to ascribe the activity to a compound known to be present in the plant family and/or species, where related activity has previously been documented for another genus of the species. Also, the tests employed to assess antioxidant activity and the potential caveats thereof during assessment are briefly commented on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Gulumian
- National Institute for Occupational Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Haematology and Molecular Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ewura Seidu Yahaya
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Vanessa Steenkamp
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Salehi B, Albayrak S, Antolak H, Kręgiel D, Pawlikowska E, Sharifi-Rad M, Uprety Y, Tsouh Fokou PV, Yousef Z, Amiruddin Zakaria Z, Varoni EM, Sharopov F, Martins N, Iriti M, Sharifi-Rad J. Aloe Genus Plants: From Farm to Food Applications and Phytopharmacotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2843. [PMID: 30235891 PMCID: PMC6163315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aloe genus plants, distributed in Old World, are widely known and have been used for centuries as topical and oral therapeutic agents due to their health, beauty, medicinal, and skin care properties. Among the well-investigated Aloe species are A. arborescens, A. barbadensis, A. ferox, and A. vera. Today, they account among the most economically important medicinal plants and are commonly used in primary health treatment, where they play a pivotal role in the treatment of various types of diseases via the modulation of biochemical and molecular pathways, besides being a rich source of valuable phytochemicals. In the present review, we summarized the recent advances in botany, phytochemical composition, ethnobotanical uses, food preservation, and the preclinical and clinical efficacy of Aloe plants. These data will be helpful to provide future directions for the industrial and medicinal use of Aloe plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahare Salehi
- Medical Ethics and Law Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 88777539, Iran.
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 22439789, Iran.
| | - Sevil Albayrak
- Department of Biology, Science Faculty, Erciyes University, Kayseri 38039, Turkey.
| | - Hubert Antolak
- Institute of Fermentation Technology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Science, Lodz University of Technology, Wolczanska 171/173, 90-924 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Dorota Kręgiel
- Institute of Fermentation Technology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Science, Lodz University of Technology, Wolczanska 171/173, 90-924 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Ewelina Pawlikowska
- Institute of Fermentation Technology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Science, Lodz University of Technology, Wolczanska 171/173, 90-924 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Mehdi Sharifi-Rad
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol 61663-335, Iran.
| | - Yadav Uprety
- Research Centre for Applied Science and Technology (RECAST), Tribhuvan University, P.O. Box 1030 Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal.
| | - Patrick Valere Tsouh Fokou
- Antimicrobial and Biocontrol Agents Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Yaounde 1, Ngoa Ekelle, Annex Fac. Sci, P.O. Box 812 Yaounde, Cameroon.
| | - Zubaida Yousef
- Department of Botany, Lahore College for Women University, Jail Road Lahore 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Zainul Amiruddin Zakaria
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia.
- Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute (iPROMISE), Level 7, FF3 Building, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam 42300, Malaysia.
| | - Elena Maria Varoni
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Milan State University, via Beldiletto 1/3, 20100 Milan, Italy.
- National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology, via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Firenze, Italy.
| | - Farukh Sharopov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Avicenna Tajik State Medical University, Rudaki 139, Dushanbe 734003, Tajikistan.
| | - Natália Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Marcello Iriti
- National Interuniversity Consortium of Materials Science and Technology, via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Firenze, Italy.
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Milan State University, via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 11369, Iran.
- Department of Chemistry, Richardson College for the Environmental Science Complex, The University of Winnipeg, 599 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 2G3, Canada.
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Abstract
More than 80% of the global population depends on traditional medicine for their basic primary health care needs. Africa has a well-established history of botanicals use. These include a vast array of compounds that can be used to treat various skin-related conditions. The rationale for the use of traditional medicine in skincare stems from the physical effects these compounds have on skin, such as the ability to control bleeding and speed up wound healing, as well as the potential to treat burns and other disorders of pigmentation. Most African traditional healers employ decoctions and infusion methods in medicinal plant preparations; the former entails boiling of the whole or parts of the plant in water or other solvents to extract the active ingredients. Infusions involve immersion of the plant in hot or cold water for some time, followed by topically application to the affected skin area. The cosmetic skincare products are formulated to protect, enhance, and preserve the skin in its healthiest state to maintain its barrier function, thus protecting the human body. This review examines a number of botanicals that are used across Africa and the phytochemical actives that are responsible for skincare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ncoza C Dlova
- Department of Dermatology, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Moses A Ollengo
- Department of Chemistry, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Nyeri, Kenya
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Mothibe ME, Kahler-Venter C, Osuch E. IN VITRO EFFECTS OF A COMMERCIAL HERBAL MEDICINE USED AS AFRICAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE ON HUMAN NEUTROPHILS. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES 2017; 14:51-60. [PMID: 28480416 PMCID: PMC5412238 DOI: 10.21010/ajtcam.v14i3.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Commercial herbal medicines (CHMs) being marketed as immune boosters or tonics, have gained widespread popularity. The many herbal mixtures sold have not been tested for efficacy and safety, despite their modern packaging and presentations. It is imperative that these herbal mixtures be investigated for their effects on human neutrophils. Methods: The selected herbal mixture (HM), Stametta™ Body healing liquid, is common in retail outlets in Pretoria, South Africa (SA) and is used as an immune booster or intended to strengthen the body. Isolated neutrophils as well as those in whole blood phagocytes were obtained from blood samples collected from consenting healthy adult volunteers. The neutrophils were incubated with the HM at different strengths, and taken through a luminol-enhanced luminescence assay, using activators- phorbol myristate acetate and N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine. Results: The HM had variable stimulatory and inhibitory effects on the luminescence activity of healthy isolated and non-isolated human neutrophils. The effects, ranging from weak to potent were either directly or inversely related to the concentration of the HM and were mediated through a direct protein kinase C activating mechanism and an indirect formyl peptide receptor-linked mechanism. Conclusion: The findings have shown the immunomodulatory potential of Stametta™. The in vitro inhibitory and stimulatory effects on neutrophils which are furthermore time-based, suggest variable effects on the immune system, which may be beneficial as well as risky. The effects at different concentrations highlight the importance of appropriate dosing. It would therefore be prudent to caution users of this commercial herbal medicine accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elżbieta Osuch
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
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Akaberi M, Sobhani Z, Javadi B, Sahebkar A, Emami SA. Therapeutic effects of Aloe spp. in traditional and modern medicine: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 84:759-772. [PMID: 27716590 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.09.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional medicine is a useful guide in medical sciences. In the Islamic Iranian traditional medicine, the medicinal properties of many plants have been mentioned that could be exploited in drug discovery. We aimed to explore the nature and properties of Aloe spp. As described in some major Islamic traditional texts including Ferdows al-Hekmah fi'l-Tibbe (The Paradise of Wisdom in Medicine), Al-Hawi fi'l-Tibb (Comprehensive Book of Medicine), Kamel al-Sanaat al-Tibbyyah (Complete Book of the Medical Art), Al-Qanun fi'l-Tibb (Canon of Medicine), Zakhireh Kharazmshahi (Treasure of Kharazmshah), and Makhzan al-Adwiah (Drug Treasure), and assess the conformity of traditional medicine instructions with the findings of modern pharmacological studies. Gastrointestinal activities, hepato-protective properties, beneficial effects against skin problems such as wounds, injuries, and infective diseases are among the most frequently mentioned properties of Aloe spp. Several activities of Aloe spp. described in traditional medicine have been the subject of recent in vitro and in vivo studies as well as clinical trials. Owing to the positive findings, different preparations of Aloe spp. are now present in pharmaceutical markets such as Aloe cosmetic products. On the other hand, there are many traditional therapeutic effects of Aloe spp. which have not been studied and require confirmatory experimental or clinical investigations. It is hoped that the present study could stimulate further research on the unexplored aspects of the medicinal properties of Aloe spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Akaberi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Sobhani
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Behjat Javadi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyed Ahmad Emami
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Cristiano G, Murillo-Amador B, De Lucia B. Propagation Techniques and Agronomic Requirements for the Cultivation of Barbados Aloe ( Aloe vera (L.) Burm. F.)-A Review. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:1410. [PMID: 27721816 PMCID: PMC5033982 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.01410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Barbados aloe (Aloe vera (L.) Burm. F.) has traditionally been used for healing in natural medicine. However, aloe is now attracting great interest in the global market due to its bioactive chemicals which are extracted from the leaves and used in industrial preparations for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food products. Aloe originated from tropical and sub-tropical Africa, but it is also now cultivated in warm climatic areas of Asia, Europe, and America. In this review, the most important factors affecting aloe production are described. We focus on propagation techniques, sustainable agronomic practices and efficient post harvesting and processing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cristiano
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Bari Aldo MoroBari, Italy
| | - Bernardo Murillo-Amador
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, Instituto Politecnico NacionalLa Paz, Mexico
| | - Barbara De Lucia
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Bari Aldo MoroBari, Italy
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26
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Moyo M, Aremu AO, Van Staden J. Medicinal plants: An invaluable, dwindling resource in sub-Saharan Africa. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2015; 174:595-606. [PMID: 25929451 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The use of plant species for different therapeutic/medicinal purposes is well-entrenched in sub-Saharan Africa. AIM OF THE REVIEW To provide a critical and updated review of the enormous medicinal plant heritage in sub-Saharan Africa with regards to the abundance, importance, conservation status and potential means to help sustain their availability for future generations. METHODS A comprehensive literature search involving different online databases, books and theses were conducted in order to obtain, collate and synthesize available information on various fundamental aspects pertaining to African medicinal plants. RESULTS African biodiversity hotspots are endowed with a high level of endemic species with a significant portion possessing medicinal value. Apart from the extensive ethnobotanical uses of medicinal plants found in Africa, scientific validation of their biological potential such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties have been recognized. Together with the demand arising from their biological efficacies, other anthropogenic factors are exerting conservation strains of the wild population of these medicinal plants. Even though researchers have acknowledged the importance and value of conserving these medicinal plants, several challenges have hampered these efforts on the Continent as a whole. CONCLUSIONS The rich flora occurring in sub-Saharan Africa suggests enormous potential for discovery of new chemical entity with therapeutic value. However, concerted efforts focused on documenting the conservation status of African medicinal plants are pertinent. Application of different biotechnological techniques is needed to sustain these valuable botanical entities, especially to meet increasing pharmaceutical demand. Most importantly, increased public enlightenment and awareness may help eradicate the prejudice against cultivation of medicinal plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mack Moyo
- Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa
| | - Adeyemi O Aremu
- Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa
| | - Johannes Van Staden
- Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa.
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27
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Sreekeesoon DP, Mahomoodally MF. Ethnopharmacological analysis of medicinal plants and animals used in the treatment and management of pain in Mauritius. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 157:181-200. [PMID: 25261690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2014] [Revised: 08/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Pain is a multi-faceted and multi-factorial condition which is challenging to manage and treat. Conventional therapies such as analgesics, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids amongst others have been successful to some extent in its management and treatment. Nonetheless, such therapies tend to be accompanied by undesirable effects and have a limited therapeutic range. Consequently, there is a pressing need to probe for novel analgesic and anti-nociceptive drugs from traditional medicines (TM). This study was designed to record, document and analyze herbal and animal-based therapies used for the management and treatment of pain in the tropical of Mauritius. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data was collected via face-to-face interviews with TM users (n=332) and practitioners (n=20). Seven quantitative ethnopharmacological indexes, namely family use value (FUV), use value (UV), informant agreement ratio (IAR), relative frequency of citation (RFC), fidelity level (FL), relative importance (RI) and ethnobotanicity index (EI) were calculated. RESULTS A total of 79 plant species distributed within 40 families and 20 polyherbal preparations was recorded. Interestingly, 6 indigenous/endemic plants have been reported for the first time to be in common use for pain management and treatment in Mauritius. The most significant biologically important plant family was Xanthorrhoeaceae with highest FUV. The species which ranked highest according to its UV was Morinda citrifolia L. Morinda citrifolia L. and Ricinus communis L. also scored the highest RFC. The IAR values for the disease categories were high (0.95-0.97). Based on EI, plants species which are known to be useful in TM accounted for 11.5% of the total flora in Mauritius. Coix lacryma-jobi L. (FL=100%) had highest FL for lower back ache. Morinda citrifolia L. scored highest on most of the quantitative indices calculated including RI, which is endorsed by extensive documentation on its versatility and particularly its anti-nociceptive properties. Seven animal species were recorded to be in common use. CONCLUSION The present ethnopharmacological study revealed a panoply of TM to be in common use for pain management and treatment in Mauritius. This study has documented for the first time medicinal plants and animal species with potential analgesic and/or anti-nociceptive properties. This study has therefore provided important baseline primary data for the discovery of new lead molecules for drug development geared towards pain management and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Priyamka Sreekeesoon
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius, 230 Réduit, Mauritius
| | - M Fawzi Mahomoodally
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Mauritius, 230 Réduit, Mauritius.
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