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Fajinmi OO, Olarewaju OO, Van Staden J. Propagation of Medicinal Plants for Sustainable Livelihoods, Economic Development, and Biodiversity Conservation in South Africa. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1174. [PMID: 36904034 PMCID: PMC10007054 DOI: 10.3390/plants12051174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
South Africa is blessed with vast plant resources and unique vegetation types. Indigenous South African medicinal plants have been well-harnessed to generate income in rural communities. Many of these plants have been processed into natural products to heal a variety of diseases, making them valuable export commodities. South Africa has one of the most effective bio-conservation policies in Africa, which has protected the South African indigenous medicinal vegetation. However, there is a strong link between government policies for biodiversity conservation, the propagation of medicinal plants as a source of livelihood, and the development of propagation techniques by research scientists. Tertiary institutions nationwide have played a crucial role in the development of effective propagation protocols for valuable South African medicinal plants. The government-restricted harvest policies have also helped to nudge natural product companies and medicinal plant marketers to embrace the cultivated plants for their medicinal uses, and thus have helped support the South African economy and biodiversity conservation. Propagation methods used for the cultivation of the relevant medicinal plants vary according to plant family and vegetation type, among others. Plants from the Cape areas, such as the Karoo, are often resuscitated after bushfires, and propagation protocols mimicking these events have been established through seed propagation protocols with controlled temperatures and other conditions, to establish seedlings of such plants. Thus, this review highlights the role of the propagation of highly utilized and traded medicinal plants in the South African traditional medicinal system. Some valuable medicinal plants that sustain livelihoods and are highly sought-after as export raw materials are discussed. The effect of South African bio-conservation registration on the propagation of these plants and the roles of the communities and other stakeholders in the development of propagation protocols for highly utilized and endangered medicinal plants are also covered. The role of various propagation methods on the bioactive compounds' composition of medicinal plants and issues of quality assurance are addressed. The available literature, media online news, newspapers, and other resources, such as published books and manuals, were scrutinized for information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olufunke O. Fajinmi
- Department of Nature Conservation, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Durban 4031, South Africa
| | - Olaoluwa O. Olarewaju
- Department of Nature Conservation, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Durban 4031, 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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Docrat TF, Abdul NS, Marnewick JL. The phytotherapeutic potential of commercial South African medicinal plants: current knowledge and future prospects. PHYSICAL SCIENCES REVIEWS 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/psr-2022-0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
South Africa, a country considered affluent in nature, ranks third in global biodiversity and encompasses approximately 9% of higher plants on planet Earth. Many indigenous plants have been utilised as herbal medicine, proving successful in treating numerous ailments. From the common cold to pandemic maladies such as COVID-19 in the 21st century and the treatment of incurable diseases, South African inhabitants have found great promise in the healing properties of these plants. Phytomedicine is a rapidly evolving topic, with in-depth bioactive composition analysis, identifying therapeutic action mechanisms, and disease prevention. While we are now poised to take advantage of nature’s medicine cabinet with greater scientific vigour, it remains critical that these practises are done with caution. Overharvesting significantly impacts biodiversity and cultivation practices amidst the beautiful nature of these nutraceuticals. This book chapter focuses on the therapeutic potential of commonly used South African medicinal plants, their ethnopharmacological properties, and how we can conserve this treasure cove we call home for future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taskeen F. Docrat
- Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute, Cape Peninsula University of Technology , Bellville , South Africa
| | - Naeem Sheik Abdul
- Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute, Cape Peninsula University of Technology , Bellville , South Africa
| | - Jeanine L. Marnewick
- Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute, Cape Peninsula University of Technology , Bellville , South Africa
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Halleen F, Havenga M, McLeod A, Mostert L. First report of Neofusicoccum australe causing dieback of honeybush in the Western Cape, South Africa. PLANT DISEASE 2022; 107:961. [PMID: 35971263 DOI: 10.1094/pdis-06-22-1429-pdn] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Honeybush (Cyclopia spp.) is an indigenous, leguminous member of the Cape fynbos biome growing in the coastal winter rainfall districts of the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa (Joubert et al. 2011). Honeybush is used for the production of herbal teas and is harvested from wild-growing and cultivated plantations (du Toit et al. 1998). Very little is known regarding diseases caused by pathogens on this indigenous plant. Only one report of twig dieback on honeybush caused by several Diaporthe Nitschke species have been reported in South Africa (Smit et al. 2021). Several honeybush producers reported poor growth and dieback in their C. subternata plantations in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Symptoms included twig dieback, branch dieback, death of branches as well as death of entire plants. In April 2008, branches from 8-year-old cultivated plants with dieback symptoms were collected in Stellenbosch. Fungal isolations were carried out from affected material as described by Van Niekerk et al. (2004) which consistently revealed the presence of a Botryosphaeriaceae species. Two isolates were grown on water agar with sterile pine needles and incubated at 25˚C using a 12-hour day/night cycle and near-ultraviolet light. Pycnidia formed after two weeks. Morphological characteristics similar to Neofusicoccum australe (Slippers, Crous & Wingfield) Crous, Slippers & Phillips were observed (Phillips et al. 2013). Conidia were hyaline, aseptate, fusiform with subtruncate bases (16.8-)18.8-22.1(-24.6) × (4.8-)5.3-6.1(-6.4) µm (n=50). Conidiogenous cells were holoblastic, hyaline and subcylindrical to flask-shaped tapering to the apex (11-15 × 2 µm) (n=10). Colonies on potato dextrose agar were light primrose turning olivaceous grey after 7 days with a light-yellow pigment diffusing into the medium. Mycelia was moderately dense with an appressed centre mat. The identity of the isolates was further confirmed by sequencing the ribosomal RNA Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and the elongation factor 1-alpha (EF-1α) gene regions using primer pairs ITS4-ITS5 (White et al. 1990) and EF1-728F-EF1-986R (Alves et al. 2008), respectively. Sequences had a 100% similarity to N. australe ex-type CMW6837 isolate (accessions AY339262 and AY339270) (Slippers et al. 2004). Two isolates (STEU6554 and STEU6557) were deposited in the culture collection at the Department of Plant Pathology at Stellenbosch University and the sequences were submitted to GenBank with accession numbers ON745603, ON745604, ON746573 and ON746574. Pathogenicity tests using the two N. australe isolates were conducted by inoculating two shoots each of three field-grown C. subternata plants with a 4mm colonised potato dextrose agar (PDA) mycelium plug of each isolate on wounds made by a 4mm cork borer (Van Niekerk et al. 2004). A third shoot was inoculated with a uncolonized PDA plug as the negative control. After 12 weeks, brown-black lesions that were significantly longer (average 55.2 mm) than the uncolonized agar plug control (16.1 mm) were observed. Lesions were observed in all three plants. Neofusicoccum australe was re-isolated (van Niekerk et al. 2004) from all inoculated shoots confirming Koch's postulates. The economic impact and damages caused by N. australe as well as its incidence and severity on honeybush in South Africa is unknown. However, the pathogen caused dieback of entire branches and death of plants indicating that it could be an important pathogen of honeybush. Additionally, N. australe is one of the most important disease-causing Botryosphaeriaceae pathogens on a wide range of economical fruit and vine crops globally (Mojeremane et al. 2020). This is the first report of N. australe as a known pathogen causing decline and dieback of C. subternata in South Africa. References: Alves, A. et al. 2008. Fungal Divers. 28:1. du Toit, J. et al. 1998. J. Sustain. Agric. 12:67. Joubert, E. et al. 2011. S. Afr. J. Bot. 77:887. Mojeremane, K. et al. 2020. Phytopathol. Mediterr. 59:581. Phillips, A. J. et al. 2013. Stud. Mycol. 76:51. Slippers, B. et al. 2004. Mycologia 96:1030. Smit, L. et al. 2021. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 161:565. van Niekerk, J. M. et al. 2004. Mycologia 96:781. White, T. J. et al. 1990. Pages 315 in: In PCR Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications. Academic Press Inc, USA. Declaration. The author(s) declare no conflict of interest Acknowledgments. This work benefitted from the financial support of the Agricultural Research Council, Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francois Halleen
- ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Plant Protection Division, Private Bag X5026, Stellenbosch, Western Cape Province, South Africa, 7599
- University of Stellenbosch, Plant Pathology, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, Western Cape Province, South Africa, 7602;
| | - Minette Havenga
- Agricultural Research Council Infruitec Nietvoorbij, Plant Protection, Corner of R44 and Helshoogte road, Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, 7599;
| | - Adèle McLeod
- University of Stellenbosch, Plant Pathology, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, 7602;
| | - Lizel Mostert
- Stellenbosch University, Plant Pathology, Private BagX1, Matieland, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, 7602
- South Africa;
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Galuszynski NC, Potts AJ. Applied phylogeography of Cyclopia intermedia (Fabaceae) highlights the need for 'duty of care' when cultivating honeybush. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9818. [PMID: 32953270 PMCID: PMC7474521 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current cultivation and plant breeding of Honeybush tea (produced from members of Cyclopia Vent.) do not consider the genetic diversity nor structuring of wild populations. Thus, wild populations may be at risk of genetic contamination if cultivated plants are grown in the same landscape. Here, we investigate the spatial distribution of genetic diversity within Cyclopia intermedia E. Mey.-this species is widespread and endemic in the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) and used in the production of Honeybush tea. Methods We applied High Resolution Melt analysis (HRM), with confirmation Sanger sequencing, to screen two non-coding chloroplast DNA regions (two fragments from the atpI-aptH intergenic spacer and one from the ndhA intron) in wild C. intermedia populations. A total of 156 individuals from 17 populations were analyzed for phylogeographic structuring. Statistical tests included analyses of molecular variance and isolation-by-distance, while relationships among haplotypes were ascertained using a statistical parsimony network. Results Populations were found to exhibit high levels of genetic structuring, with 62.8% of genetic variation partitioned within mountain ranges. An additional 9% of genetic variation was located amongst populations within mountains, suggesting limited seed exchange among neighboring populations. Despite this phylogeographic structuring, no isolation-by-distance was detected (p > 0.05) as nucleotide variation among haplotypes did not increase linearly with geographic distance; this is not surprising given that the configuration of mountain ranges dictates available habitats and, we assume, seed dispersal kernels. Conclusions Our findings support concerns that the unmonitored redistribution of Cyclopia genetic material may pose a threat to the genetic diversity of wild populations, and ultimately the genetic resources within the species. We argue that 'duty of care' principles be used when cultivating Honeybush and that seed should not be translocated outside of the mountain range of origin. Secondarily, given the genetic uniqueness of wild populations, cultivated populations should occur at distance from wild populations that is sufficient to prevent unintended gene flow; however, further research is needed to assess gene flow within mountain ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas C Galuszynski
- Department of Botany, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa
| | - Alastair J Potts
- Department of Botany, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa
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Oyenihi OR, Krygsman A, Verhoog N, de Beer D, Saayman MJ, Mouton TM, Louw A. Chemoprevention of LA7-Induced Mammary Tumor Growth by SM6Met, a Well-Characterized Cyclopia Extract. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:650. [PMID: 29973879 PMCID: PMC6019492 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Chemoprevention of BC by using plant extracts is gaining attention. SM6Met, a well-characterized extract of Cyclopia subternata with reported selective estrogen receptor subtype activity, has shown tumor suppressive effects in a chemically induced BC model in rats, which is known to be estrogen responsive. However, there is no information on the estrogen sensitivity of the relatively new orthotopic model of LA7 cell-induced mammary tumors. In the present study, the potential chemopreventative and side-effect profile of SM6Met on LA7 cell-induced tumor growth was evaluated, as was the effects of 17β-estradiol and standard-of-care (SOC) endocrine therapies, such as tamoxifen (TAM), letrozole (LET), and fulvestrant (FUL). Tumor growth was observed in the tumor-vehicle control group until day 10 post tumor induction, which declined afterward on days 12-14. SM6Met suppressed tumor growth to the same extent as TAM, while LET, but not FUL, also showed substantial anti-tumor effects. Short-term 17β-estradiol treatment reduced tumor volume on days prior to day 10, whereas tumor promoting effects were observed during long-term treatment, which was especially evident at later time points. Marked elevation in serum markers of liver injury, which was further supported by histological evaluation, was observed in the vehicle-treated tumor control, TAM, LET, and long-term 17β-estradiol treatment groups. Alterations in the lipid profiles were also observed in the 17β-estradiol treatment groups. In contrast, SM6Met did not augment the increase in serum levels of liver injury biomarkers caused by tumor induction and no effect was observed on lipid profiles. In summary, the results from the current study demonstrate the chemopreventative effect of SM6Met on mammary tumor growth, which was comparable to that of TAM, without eliciting the negative side-effects observed with this SOC endocrine therapy. Furthermore, the results of this study also showed some responsiveness of LA7-induced tumors to estrogen and SOC endocrine therapies. Thus, this model may be useful in evaluating potential endocrine therapies for hormone responsive BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omolola R. Oyenihi
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Annadie Krygsman
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Nicolette Verhoog
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Dalene de Beer
- Post-Harvest and Agro-Processing Technologies, Agricultural Research Council of South Africa, Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Food Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Michael J. Saayman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thys M. Mouton
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ann Louw
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Visser K, Zierau O, Macejová D, Goerl F, Muders M, Baretton GB, Vollmer G, Louw A. The phytoestrogenic Cyclopia extract, SM6Met, increases median tumor free survival and reduces tumor mass and volume in chemically induced rat mammary gland carcinogenesis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 163:129-35. [PMID: 27142456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
SM6Met, a phytoestrogenic extract of Cyclopia subternata indigenous to the Western Cape province of South Africa, displays estrogenic attributes with potential for breast cancer chemoprevention. In this study, we report that SM6Met, in the presence of estradiol, induces a significant cell cycle G0/G1 phase arrest similar to the selective estrogen receptor modulator, tamoxifen. Furthermore, as a proof of concept, in the N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea induced rat mammary gland carcinogenesis model, SM6Met increases tumor latency by 7days and median tumor free survival by 42 days, while decreasing palpable tumor frequency by 32%, tumor mass by 40%, and tumor volume by 53%. Therefore, the current study provides proof of concept that SM6Met has definite potential as a chemopreventative agent against the development and progression of breast cancer.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/isolation & purification
- Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/pharmacology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cyclopia Plant/chemistry
- Estrogen Antagonists/pharmacology
- Female
- G1 Phase Cell Cycle Checkpoints/drug effects
- G1 Phase Cell Cycle Checkpoints/genetics
- Humans
- Mammary Glands, Animal/drug effects
- Mammary Glands, Animal/metabolism
- Mammary Glands, Animal/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/chemically induced
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/drug therapy
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/mortality
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Methylnitrosourea
- Phytoestrogens/isolation & purification
- Phytoestrogens/pharmacology
- Rats
- Receptors, Estrogen/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Survival Analysis
- Tamoxifen/pharmacology
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Koch Visser
- Biochemistry Department, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Oliver Zierau
- Molecular Cell Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute for Zoology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Dana Macejová
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Florian Goerl
- Institute for Pathology, Radeberg, Germany; Institute for Pathology, University Clinic Carl-Gustav-Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Muders
- Institute for Pathology, University Clinic Carl-Gustav-Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gustavo B Baretton
- Institute for Pathology, University Clinic Carl-Gustav-Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Günter Vollmer
- Molecular Cell Physiology and Endocrinology, Institute for Zoology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ann Louw
- Biochemistry Department, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa.
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Postma A, Slabbert E, Postma F, Jacobs K. Soil bacterial communities associated with natural and commercialCyclopiaspp. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2016; 92:fiw016. [DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiw016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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Schulze AE, de Beer D, de Villiers A, Manley M, Joubert E. Chemometric analysis of chromatographic fingerprints shows potential of Cyclopia maculata (Andrews) Kies for production of standardized extracts with high xanthone content. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2014; 62:10542-10551. [PMID: 25329526 DOI: 10.1021/jf5028735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cyclopia species are used for the production of honeybush tea and food ingredient extracts associated with many health benefits. A species-specific high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for Cyclopia maculata, developed and validated, allowed quantification of the major compounds in extracts from "unfermented" and fermented C. maculata. Two xanthones were tentatively identified for the first time in a Cyclopia species, whereas an additional four compounds were tentatively identified for the first time in C. maculata. "Fermentation" (oxidation) decreased the content of all compounds, with the exception of vicenin-2. Similarity analysis of the chromatographic fingerprints of unfermented C. maculata aqueous extracts showed extremely low variation (r ≥ 0.97) between samples. Some differences between wild-harvested and cultivated seedling plants were, however, demonstrated using principal component analysis. Quantitative data of selected compounds confirmed the low level of variation, making this Cyclopia species ideal for the production of standardized food ingredient extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra E Schulze
- Department of Food Science and ‡Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science, Stellenbosch University , Private Bag X1, Matieland (Stellenbosch) 7602, South Africa
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Visser K, Mortimer M, Louw A. Cyclopia extracts act as ERα antagonists and ERβ agonists, in vitro and in vivo. PLoS One 2013; 8:e79223. [PMID: 24223909 PMCID: PMC3817056 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy associated risks, and the concomitant reluctance of usage, has instigated the search for new generations of estrogen analogues that would maintain estrogen benefits without associated risks. Furthermore, if these analogues display chemo-preventative properties in breast and endometrial tissues it would be of great value. Both the selective estrogen receptor modulators as well as the selective estrogen receptor subtype modulators have been proposed as estrogen analogues with improved risk profiles. Phytoestrogen containing extracts of Cyclopia, an indigenous South African fynbos plant used to prepare Honeybush tea may serve as a source of new estrogen analogues. In this study three extracts, P104, SM6Met, and cup-of-tea, from two species of Cyclopia, C. genistoides and C. subternata, were evaluated for ER subtype specific agonism and antagonism both in transactivation and transrepression. For transactivation, the Cyclopia extracts displayed ERα antagonism and ERβ agonism when ER subtypes were expressed separately, however, when co-expressed only agonism was uniformly observed. In contrast, for transrepression, this uniform behavior was lost, with some extracts (P104) displaying uniform agonism, while others (SM6Met) displayed antagonism when subtypes were expressed separately and agonism when co-expressed. In addition, breast cancer cell proliferation assays indicate that extracts antagonize cell proliferation in the presence of estrogen at lower concentrations than that required for proliferation. Furthermore, lack of uterine growth and delayed vaginal opening in an immature rat uterotrophic model validates the ERα antagonism of extracts observed in vitro and supports the potential of the Cyclopia extracts as a source of estrogen analogues with a reduced risk profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koch Visser
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch, Matieland, Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa
| | - Morné Mortimer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch, Matieland, Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa
| | - Ann Louw
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch, Matieland, Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa
- * E-mail:
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Kokotkiewicz A, Luczkiewicz M, Pawlowska J, Luczkiewicz P, Sowinski P, Witkowski J, Bryl E, Bucinski A. Isolation of xanthone and benzophenone derivatives from Cyclopia genistoides (L.) Vent. (honeybush) and their pro-apoptotic activity on synoviocytes from patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Fitoterapia 2013; 90:199-208. [PMID: 23916580 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2013.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A fast and efficient method for the isolation of the C-glucosidated xanthones mangiferin and isomangiferin from the South-African plant Cyclopia genistoides was developed for the first time. The procedure involved extraction, liquid-liquid partitioning with ethyl acetate and subsequent precipitation of mangiferin and isomangiferin from methanol and acetonitrile-water fractions, respectively. Additionally, two benzophenone derivatives: 3-C-β-glucosides of maclurin and iriflophenone, were isolated from C. genistoides extracts using semi-preparative HPLC. Apart from the above, the isolation procedure also yielded hesperidin and small amounts of luteolin. The structures of the compounds were determined by 1D and 2D NMR experiments and/or LC-DAD-ESI-MS. The selected Cyclopia constituents were screened for pro-apoptotic activity on TNF-α-stimulated synovial cells isolated from rheumatoid arthritis patients. The strongest effect, measured as percent of apoptotic cells, was recorded for isomangiferin (75%), followed by iriflophenone 3-C-β-glucoside (71%), hesperidin (67%) and mangiferin (65%). The results are encouraging for further studies on the use of the above compounds in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kokotkiewicz
- The Chair and Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, al. gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdansk, Poland
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Dudhia Z, Louw J, Muller C, Joubert E, de Beer D, Kinnear C, Pheiffer C. Cyclopia maculata and Cyclopia subternata (honeybush tea) inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 20:401-408. [PMID: 23428403 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Revised: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/15/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The stems, leaves and flowers of Cyclopia have been consumed as a herbal tea 'honeybush tea' to treat various medical ailments since the 19th century. Plant polyphenols are reported to inhibit adipogenesis in cell and animal models of obesity. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of hot water extracts of two Cyclopia species, C. maculata and C. subternata on obesity in an in vitro model. The total polyphenol content of unfermented C. subternata, unfermented C. maculata and fermented C. maculata extracts was 25.6, 22.4 and 10.8g GAE/100g, respectively. The major compounds present in the extracts were: the flavonoid, phloretin-3',5'-di-C-glucoside in C. subternata, the xanthone, mangiferin in unfermented C. maculata and the flavanone, hesperidin in fermented C. maculata. All of the plant extracts inhibited intracellular triglyceride and fat accumulation, and decreased PPARγ2 expression. The higher concentrations of unfermented C. maculata (800 and 1600μg/ml) and C. subternata (1600μg/ml) were cytotoxic in terms of decreased mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity. Both fermented and unfermented C. maculata, at concentrations greater than 100μg/ml, decreased cellular ATP content. Cyclopia maculata and C. subternata inhibit adipogenesis in vitro, suggesting their potential as anti-obesity agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfaqar Dudhia
- Diabetes Discovery Platform, Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
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12
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de Beer D, Joubert E. Development of HPLC method for Cyclopia subternata phenolic compound analysis and application to other Cyclopia spp. J Food Compost Anal 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2009.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
South African herbal teas, rooibos and honeybush, are increasingly enjoyed as healthy alternatives to Camellia sinensis teas. They contribute to the diet with bioactive phytochemicals not commonly found in foods. Major compounds of rooibos are the unique dihydrochalcone, aspalathin, and its flavone isomers, orientin and isoorientin. Honeybush contributes the xanthones, mangiferin and isomangiferin and the flavanones, eriocitrin, narirutin and hesperidin. All these compounds are either C-glucosides or O-rhamnoglucosides, which are poorly absorbed. Phase II metabolism and degradation by intestinal bacteria are important factors in their absorption. Modulation of drug metabolising enzymes is indicated which not only could affect the therapeutic window of drugs, but also the bioavailability of other dietary flavonoids.
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14
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Kokotkiewicz A, Luczkiewicz M. Honeybush (Cyclopia sp.) - a rich source of compounds with high antimutagenic properties. Fitoterapia 2008; 80:3-11. [PMID: 19032980 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2008.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2008] [Revised: 10/29/2008] [Accepted: 11/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The genus Cyclopia (Fabaceae family) includes a number of shrubs endemic to Cape Fynbos region of South Africa. The most common of these plants is Cyclopia intermedia E. Mey., used together with other Cyclopia species (mainly C. subternata and C. sessiliflora) to manufacture the honeybush herbal tea which has been produced in South Africa roughly since the beginning of the 19th century. Honeybush infusions are gaining popularity due to their characteristic honey-like flavour, low tannin content, absence of caffeine and potential health effects related to their antimutagenic and antioxidant properties. The presented review summarizes information concerning botany, chemistry, biological activity and application of Cyclopia plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kokotkiewicz
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Medical University of Gdańsk, al. gen. J. Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdansk, Poland.
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15
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Mfenyana C, DeBeer D, Joubert E, Louw A. Selective extraction of Cyclopia for enhanced in vitro phytoestrogenicity and benchmarking against commercial phytoestrogen extracts. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2008; 112:74-86. [PMID: 18793725 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2008.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2008] [Revised: 08/08/2008] [Accepted: 08/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Previous work established the phytoestrogenicity of "unfermented"Cyclopia (honeybush) extracts. The current study investigated the phytoestrogenicity of four Cyclopia harvestings (M6-9) for preparation of extracts with enhanced phytoestrogenicity for benchmarking against commercial preparations. Two extracts, from M6 (C. subternata) and M7 (C. genistoides), were identified as most phytoestrogenic using estrogen receptor binding, an estrogen receptor response element containing promoter reporter assay, alkaline phosphatase activity, and E-screen. M6 and M7 were sequentially and non-sequentially extracted with five solvents of differing polarities. Additionally, two extracts were prepared in the traditional way of preparing a cup of honeybush tea. The resultant 22 extracts were evaluated for estrogenicity. Select extracts were analysed by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The sequentially extracted M6 methanol extract (SM6Met) had the highest potency and the sequentially extracted M6 ethyl acetate extract (SM6EAc) had the highest efficacy of all the extracts. The HPLC results suggested enrichment of luteolin in SM6EAc and enrichment of an unidentified polyphenol in SM6Met. Benchmarking against four commercial phytoestrogenic preparations suggest that in terms of the assays used, Cyclopia extracts have comparable potency and efficacy to the commercial extracts and thus have potential as marketable phytoestrogenic nutraceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciko Mfenyana
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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16
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Joubert E, Gelderblom WCA, Louw A, de Beer D. South African herbal teas: Aspalathus linearis, Cyclopia spp. and Athrixia phylicoides--a review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 119:376-412. [PMID: 18621121 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2008] [Revised: 06/10/2008] [Accepted: 06/13/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Brum.f) Dahlg.) and honeybush (Cyclopia Vent. species) are popular indigenous South African herbal teas enjoyed for their taste and aroma. Traditional medicinal uses of rooibos in South Africa include alleviation of infantile colic, allergies, asthma and dermatological problems, while a decoction of honeybush was used as a restorative and as an expectorant in chronic catarrh and pulmonary tuberculosis. Traditional medicinal uses of Athrixia phylicoides DC., or bush tea, another indigenous South African plant with very limited localised use as herbal tea, include treatment of boils, acne, infected wounds and infected throats. Currently rooibos and honeybush are produced for the herbal tea market, while bush tea has potential for commercialisation. A summary of the historical and modern uses, botany, distribution, industry and chemical composition of these herbal teas is presented. A comprehensive discussion of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo biological properties, required to expand their applications as nutraceutical and cosmeceutical products, is included, with the main emphasis on rooibos. Future research needs include more comprehensive chemical characterisation of extracts, identification of marker compounds for extract standardisation and quality control, bioavailability and identification of bio-markers of dietary exposure, investigation of possible herb-drug interactions and plant improvement with regards to composition and bioactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Joubert
- Post-Harvest and Wine Technology Division, ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Private Bag X5026, Stellenbosch 7599, South Africa.
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17
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Joubert E, Manley M, Botha M. Evaluation of spectrophotometric methods for screening of green rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and green honeybush (Cyclopia genistoides) extracts for high levels of Bio-active compounds. PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS : PCA 2008; 19:169-78. [PMID: 17893845 DOI: 10.1002/pca.1033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The potential of UV spectrophotometry and an aluminium chloride (AlCl(3)) colorimetric method to determine the dihydrochalcone (DHC) and mangiferin contents of green rooibos and honeybush (C. genistoides) extracts, respectively, was investigated. The DHC content of rooibos water extracts, determined using UV spectroscopy, correlated with the sum of the aspalathin and nothofagin contents as quantified using HPLC (r = 0.98). A correlation coefficient of 0.91 was obtained when correlating the mangiferin content of C. genistoides methanol extracts, determined by the AlCl(3) colorimetric method, with the results obtained by HPLC. Using the linear equations from the correlations it was possible to predict the DHC and mangiferin contents of extracts from the respective spectrophotometric measurements to a reasonable accuracy as an alternative to HPLC. The total polyphenol (TP) content of rooibos water extracts can also be determined using UV spectrophotometry and aspalathin as a standard (r = 0.99) as an alternative to the Folin-Ciocalteau method. The TP content of rooibos extracts correlated (r = 0.99) with its total antioxidant activity (TAA) as determined with the ABTS radical cation scavenging assay, but the TP content of C. genistoides water extracts is not a good indication of their TAA (r = 0.27). The aspalathin content of rooibos extracts correlated with their TAA (r = 0.96), but the mangiferin content of honeybush water extracts only gave a moderate correlation with their TAA (r = 0.75).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Joubert
- ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Private Bag X5026, Stellenbosch, 7599, South Africa.
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18
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McKay DL, Blumberg JB. A review of the bioactivity of South African herbal teas: rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia). Phytother Res 2007; 21:1-16. [PMID: 16927447 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.1992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) are popular tisanes in their native South Africa and have a growing worldwide market. Both herbal teas are used traditionally for medicinal purposes and are rich in polyphenols with rooibos a rare source of the dietary dihydrochalcones, aspalathin and nothofagin. The principal polyphenols in honeybush include the xanthone mangiferin and the flavonones hesperitin and isokuranetin. Despite their divergent phytochemical and nutrient compositions, rooibos and honeybush share potent antioxidant and antimutagenic activities in vitro. Animal model studies indicate both herbal teas possess potent antioxidant, immune-modulating and chemopreventive actions. However, human studies of rooibos are limited and of honeybush are absent. No adverse effects of rooibos or honeybush consumption as tisanes have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane L McKay
- USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, 711 Washington St., Boston, MA 02111, USA.
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19
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Kamara BI, Brand DJ, Brandt EV, Joubert E. Phenolic metabolites from honeybush tea (Cyclopia subternata). JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2004; 52:5391-5395. [PMID: 15315375 DOI: 10.1021/jf040097z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Cyclopia subternata is one of the 24 Cyclopia species that are used to brew honeybush tea, a unique South African herbal beverage with a pleasant taste and flavor. It contains various antioxidants, very low tannin content, and no caffeine. Many health properties are associated with regular consumption of the tea. Honeybush infusions have been noted as a tonic for colds and influenza, catarrh, and pulmonic tuberculosis and is becoming well-known for its effectiveness in alleviating menopausal symptoms in women. "Unfermented" leaves of C. subternata contain pinitol, shikimic acid, p-coumaric acid, 4-glucosyltyrosol, epigallocatechin gallate, the isoflavone orobol, the flavanones hesperedin, narirutin, and eriocitrin, a glycosylated flavan, the flavones luteolin, 5-deoxyluteolin, and scolymoside, the xanthone mangiferin, and the flavonol C-6-glucosylkaempferol. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and spectrometric analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Irene Kamara
- Department of Chemistry, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein, 9300 South Africa.
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