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Green vegetation enrichment is a cost-effective technique for reducing atmospheric pollution. Fifteen common tropical plant species were assessed for identifying their air pollution tolerance, anticipated performance, and metal accumulation capacity at Jharia Coalfield and Reference (JCF) site using Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI), Anticipated Performance Index (API), and Metal Accumulation Index (MAI). Metal accumulation efficiencies were observed to be highest for Ficus benghalensis L. (12.67mg/kg) and Ficus religiosa L. (10.71 mg/kg). The values of APTI were found to be highest at JCF for F. benghalensis (APTI: 25.21 ± 0.95), F. religiosa (APTI: 23.02 ± 0.21), Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. (APTI: 18.50 ± 0.43), Mangifera indica L. (APTI: 16.88 ± 0.65), Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (APTI: 15.87 ± 0.21), and Moringa oleifera Lam. (APTI: 16.32 ± 0.66). F. benghalensis and F. religiosa were found to be excellent performers to mitigate air pollution at JCF as per their API score. Values of MAI, APTI, and API were observed to be lowest at reference sites for all the studied plant species due to absence of any air polluting sources. The findings revealed that air pollution played a significant impact in influencing the biochemical and physiological parameters of plants in a contaminated coal mining area. The species with the maximum MAI and APTI values might be employed in developing a green belt to minimize the levels of pollutants into the atmosphere.

Pandemic, COVID-19 came into existence in late December 2019 at Wuhan, China. To cure the COVID-19 and reduction in morbidity, the development of potential vaccines and antiviral drugs may take months or years. To reduce the pressure on healthcare infrastructure, traditional medicines may use as an alternative measure. The rationale of the current study was to provide the pharmacological details of Ayurvedic herbs viz. Alstonia scholaris L., Picrorhiza kurroa, Swertia chirata and Caesalpinia crista w.r.t. symptoms of COVID-19. The available information on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology was collected via a library and electronic searches in Sci-Finder, Pub-Med, Science Direct, Google Scholar for the period of up to 31 August 2020. The major symptoms of COVID-19 include pro-inflammation, inhibition of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme II (ACE2) and reactive oxygen species. A literature search revealed that all herbs under study are potent against two or more symptoms of COVID-19. All four Ayurvedic herbs viz. Alstonia scholaris L., Picrorhiza kurroa, Swertia chirata and Caesalpinia crista may be a good option, including other traditional drugs during the outbreak of COVID-19. In-depth experimental, preclinical and clinical studies are required in the future to develop a potent drug against COVID-19.

The incredible benefits of Alstonia scholaris are piquing researchers' attention in extracting its cellulose and utilizing it in further therapeutic applications. This study is based on cellulose extraction from its stalks and processed through chemical pre-treatments to manifest its cellulose content by using different bleaching reagents. A comparison was made on efficiencies of three reagents and it is found that the hydrogen peroxide exposed maximum cellulose than sodium hypochlorite and sodium chlorite. The experimental results revealed that A. scholaris possess 68–70% cellulose content. FTIR spectrum shows that OH- and CH- vibrations of cellulose appeared at 3320 cm−1 & 2892 cm−1 respectively whereas SEM images show fibrillation, rough surface, and lumens in bleached fiber that attributes to the removal of lignin and hemicelluloses and confirms cellulose extraction. The XRD pattern certifies the crystalline nature and compactness of cellulose whereas tensile properties and TGA help in understanding its flexibility, mechanical strength, and thermal stability at 370 °C respectively.

A provident, cost-effective, and environmentally benign plant-mediated approach is adopted for the synthesis of Fe2MgO4 nanoparticles (NPs), using Alstonia scholaris and Polyalthia longifolia leaves’ extracts. The method results in NPs with cubic crystal structure having particle size in range of 8.14–13.4 nm as confirmed by UV–Vis, FTIR, XRD and AFM. The prepared NPs are assessed for their antibacterial, antioxidant and larvicidal activities. Both NPs are found active against gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, and Escherichia coli) obeying the order: NPs A. scholaris > NPs P. longifolia > A. scholaris extract > P. longifolia extract. Similar order is observed for the larvicidal activity against Aedes albopictus larvae; both NPs showed excellent activity with LD50 of 5-10 μg/ml which is much less than the simple plant extracts. Antioxidant potential of NPs is also evaluated using DPPH free radical scavenging and phospho-molybdenum assays and in both cases, NPs of A. scholaris perform better than the control, P. longifolia-based NPs and plant extracts. Hence, the prepared NPs can be potentially applied as antimicrobial and larvicidal agents, as well as for food packaging and medicinal applications.

An integrated approach of physiological- and biophysical-based indicators was used to assess the tolerance of roadside plantations of Alstonia scholaris towards urban roadside air pollution caused due to heavy traffic movements. It was inferred that A. scholaris is a tolerant species to vehicular emissions and can be used to develop roadside plantations and other green spaces in an urban setup. Vehicles are a significant source of pollution affecting the urban environment. Roadside plantations are one of the first defense lines to minimize the impacts of air pollution; at the same time, they also suffer from the adverse effects of pollution. In the present study, an integrated approach, i.e., a combination of physiological, morphological, and biochemical indicators, was used to evaluate the tolerance of roadside plantations of A. scholaris exposed to road traffic emissions. Multiple indicator traits of adaptation and mitigation, especially biophysical (leaf thickness—LTh, dust load flux—DLF, and local cooling created by canopy—CI), physiological (CO2 assimilation rate—A, transpiration—E, stomatal conductance-gs, water use efficiency—WUE, and relative water content—RWC), and biochemical (proline—PROL, soluble sugars—SoS, ascorbic acid—AsA, leaf pH, and total chlorophyll—TChl, accumulation of heavy metals—Fe, Pb, Cd, Cr, and Cu) were used for evaluating the response to air pollutants. Besides, tolerance indices, i.e., air pollution tolerance index (APTI) and anticipated performance index (API), were developed to assess the species suitability for mitigating urban air pollution. It was observed that vehicular emissions modulate the measured functional traits in this species. Plants exposed to the polluted environment have increased LTh, DLF, CI, WUE, PROL, AsA, pH, SoS, heavy metals, while a decrease in the level of A, E, Gs, TChl, and RWC was reported. Further, it was inferred that A. scholaris is a tolerant species and can be suggested for roadside plantations to mitigate vehicular air pollution. The present study is expected to assist the evaluation of other species for adaptation and mitigation of vehicular emissions.

Alstoscholarisine K, an indole alkaloid with eight chiral carbons and featuring a novel 6/5/6/6/6/6/6/5 octacyclic architecture, was found to be specific to the gall-infected leaves of Alstonia scholaris. Its structure was elucidated by spectroscopy, computational analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The unusual highly fused cage-like pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrimidine structure with an additional -C4N unit is possibly derived from a combination of monoterpenoid indole and polyamine pathways. The fascinating compound exhibited significant antibacterial bioactivities by targeting cell membranes.

Alstonia scholaris, Cardiospermum halicacabum, Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides, and Hypericum japonicum are important folk medicinal plants used by tribal communities of Bodoland region of Assam to treat helminth infections. Because of their ethnomedicinal values, the present study was designed to investigate the antioxidant, antiproliferative, and anthelmintic activities of the plants. The antioxidant activity was measured by total antioxidant capacity, total phenolics (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC), FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, and TBARS assay. Antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities of plants were conducted in Dalton’s lymphoma (DL) cells. Cells were treated for 24 h with different doses (25–200 mg/mL) of plant extracts. Anthelmintic study was conducted by treating the Paramphistomum sp. at different doses of plant extracts. Phytochemical and antioxidant studies showed rich TPC, TFC, and free radical scavenging activity in H. japonicum and H. sibthorpioides. Both the antiproliferative and anthelmintic bioassays showed a dose-dependent efficacy in all plants. H. japonicum showed the strongest anthelmintic activity (LC(50) 0.21 mg/mL) followed by H. sibthorpioides (5.36 mg/mL), C. halicacabum (13.40 mg/mL), and A. scholaris (18.40 mg/mL). Evidently, H. sibthorpioides showed the strongest antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activities among all the plants. The study observed a positive correlation between the antioxidant properties and antiproliferative and anthelmintic activities of the plants. We, therefore, conclude that the phytocompounds present in the crude extracts along with antioxidant molecules may have combined effects contributing to the antiproliferative and anthelmintic activities of the plants.

Two rearranged triterpenoids, representing new subtypes of pentacyclic triterpenoids, with unique 6/6/6/7/5 and 6/6/5/6/6/6 ring systems were isolated from Alstonia scholaris. Their structures were established by spectroscopic analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and electronic circular dichroism calculations. Both compounds exhibited potent antihyperuricemic bioactivity in vitro and in vivo.

Medicinal plants are the significant sources of bioactive compounds worldwide. This study is aimed at qualitative phytochemical screening of leaves constituents of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. and Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. This analysis of both extracts of plant leaves was done using different solvents such as water, methanol and ethanol using standard methods. The presence of alkaloids, steroids, phenolic compounds, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, anthraquinones, iridoids, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and vitamins were examined in qualitative study of Catharanthus roseus and Alstonia scholaris. Only ethanol extract contains flavonoids. Steroids are found exclusively in aqueous extracts. This screening gave negative results for the presence of anthraquinones in all the extracts of both the leaves tested. The aqueous extract contains a substantially higher number of phytochemicals in both the leaves’constituents. Extensive study and research on the phytochemical analysis of the plant Catharanthus roseus and Alstonia scholaris will provide wide range information for scientists and researchers regarding apocynaceae family. This can be used to develop new therapies for society's health.

Graphical abstract, Highlights • The venom neutralization potential of silver nanoparticle(AgNP-AS) mediated bark extract of Alstonia scholaris Linn R.Br was investigated in the study. • AgNP-AS was synthesized optimally with AgNO3 (2 mM); extract concentration, 0.2 gm/l (1% w/v); extract (pH 9) and optimal temperature (40 °C). • The colour change and synthesis of AgNP-AS have been validated by UV–vis analysis at 432 nm. • Transmission electron microscopy of AgNP-AS showed that the particle size for AgNP-AS of 14 nm–20 nm. FT-IR revealed peaks at 3445 cm−1, 1646 cm−1, 1346 cm−1 and 1108 cm−1. • The biosynthesized (AgNP-AS) could significantly neutralize Viper russelli venom(VRV) induced rise in serum lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) and proinflammatory cytokines(IL6, TNFα) in animal models., Objective The venom neutralization potential of silver nanoparticle(AgNP-AS) mediated bark extract of Alstonia scholaris Linn R.Br was investigated in the study. Methods & materials AgNP-AS was synthesized with respect to optimal temperature, pH of extract. UV–vis, FT-IR, XRD, TEM, SEM studies were used to characterize silver nanoparticles of Alstonia scholaris Linn(AgNP-AS). The potential of AgNP-AS in neutralization of venom lethality, rise in myotoxicity markers(LDH) and proinflammatory cytokines(IL6, TNFα) were evaluated in animal models. Results AgNP-AS was synthesized optimally with AgNO3 (2 mM); extract concentration, 0.2 gm/l (1% w/v); extract (pH 9) and optimal temperature (40 °C). The colour change and synthesis of AgNP-AS was validated by UV–vis analysis at 432 nm. Transmission electron microscopy of AgNP-AS showed that the particle size for AgNP-AS was 14 nm-20 nm. FT-IR revealed peaks at 3445 cm−1, 1646 cm−1, 1346 cm−1 and 1108 cm−1. From the dynamic light scattering studies the hydrodynamic diameter (115.87 nm) and zeta potential(-29.8 mV) were estimated. The EDAX exhibited a peak for silver validating that the synthesized silver was pure. The biosynthesized (AgNP-AS) could significantly neutralize Viper russelli venom(VRV) induced rise in serum lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) and proinflammatory cytokines(IL6, TNFα) in animal models. Conclusion The culmination of nanotechnology with herbal medicine might endow with a really constructive tool in coming up with future drugs with fewer toxicity.

Context Capsule of alkaloids from the leaf of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. (Apocynaceae) (CALAS) is a new investigational botanical drug (No. 2011L01436) for bronchitis, post-infectious cough and asthma. Objective To observe the clinical safety and tolerability of CALAS. Materials and methods Subjects were assigned to eight cohorts, and each received randomly CALAS or placebo in one of single ascending dose (SAD) of 8, 40, 120, 240, 360, 480, or in one of multiple ascending dose (MAD) of 40 or 120 mg, three times daily for 7 days. Each cohort contained two placebo subjects. Results Sixty-two enrolled volunteers completed the study and no serious adverse events and clinically significant changes in vital signs, electrocardiography, and upper abdominal Doppler ultrasonography were observed. The ratios of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were reported in 11/46 (23.91%) of CALAS groups and 3/16 (18.75%) of the placebo group (p > 0.05), respectively, based on the results of SAD and MAD. All TEAEs were mild, transient, and disappeared without any intervention. The TEAEs possibly related to CALAS treatment were as followings: hiccups (4/46: 8%), dry mouth and nausea (3/46: 6%), increased sleep (2/46: 4%), abdominal distension (1/46: 2%), bilirubin elevated (1/46: 2%). Discussion and conclusions CALAS is safe and well-tolerated with no unexpected or clinically relevant safety concerns up to a single dose of 360 mg and three times daily for 7 days up to 120 mg in healthy Chinese volunteers, supporting further Phase II studies.

Context Dental caries is showing an upward trend in India and there is a need to explore innovative strategies to prevent the disease. Literature evaluating antibacterial activity of Camellia sinensis and Alstonia scholaris plant extracts on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus is practically non-existent. Objectives - To assess the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and antimicrobial efficacy of Camellia sinensis and Alstonia scholaris on S. mutans and L. acidophilus. Materials and method: This was an in vitro study carried over a period of three months. The leaves of Camellia sinensis and Alstonia scholaris were collected, and crushed to obtain coarse powder. Plant extraction was performed using Soxhelet appartus. Anti- oxidant assay was performed for both the plant extracts against DPPH radical using Spectrophotometer at 517nm. Inhibition percentage was calculated through absorbance value measured from spectrophotometer. Anti- microbial activity of both the plant extracts against Microbial Type Culture Collection strains of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus was assessed using Agar well diffusion method. 0.2% Chlorhexidine was used as positive control and ethanol as negative control. The experiment was performed in triplicates. Mean inhibition zone in each set of experiment was computed using three readings after accounting for well diameter. One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Tukey’s post hoc test and independent sample‘t’ test were performed to compare the mean inhibition zone. Results: The plant extracts were effective against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Camellia sinensis at 4% concentration produced a mean inhibition zone of 30.3± 3.9 mm against Streptococcus mutans and 23.8± 2.2 mm against Lactobacillus acidophilus. Alstonia scholaris at 10% concentration produced a mean inhibition zone of 21.6± 2.8 mm against Streptococcus mutans and 24.1± 1.6 mm against Lactobacillus acidophilus. Conclusion: Camellia sinensis and Alstonia scholaris have significant anti- oxidant and anti- microbial property against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus.

Pulai plant (Alstonia scholaris) has been known as a medicinal plant that is used by the community. Utilization in the field by the community usually uses boiling or brewing from the leaves and bark. The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics and secondary metabolite content of steeping and boiling pulai plants. The method used is brewing and infusion from the leaves and bark of the pulai. The results of the research for the characteristics of this plant that met the MMI criteria were water content and total ash content, while secondary metabolites contained alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and triterpenoids. Abstrak: Tanaman pulai ( Alstonia scholaris ) memiliki dikenal sebagai tanaman obat yang dimanfaatkan oleh masyarakat. Pemanfaatan di lapangan oleh masyarakat biasanya menggunakan perebusan atau penyeduhan dari daun dan kulit batang. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui karaetistik dan kandungan metabolit sekunder dari seduhan dan rebusan tanaman pulai. Metode yang digunakan adalah dengan cara menyeduh dan infusa dari daun dan kulit batang pulai. Hasil penelitian untuk karakteristik tanaman ini yang memenuhi kriteria MMI yaitu kadar air dan kadar abu total sedangkan senyawa metabolit sekunder mengandung senyawa alkaloid, flavonoid, steroid, dan triterpenoid.

OBJECTIVES: To document traditional antimalarial plants used by Tetun ethnic people in West Timor Indonesia and evaluate the antiplasmodial activity and phytochemicals of several plants that are widely used as oral medicine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A field study to document antimalarial plants followed by laboratory works to test antiplasmodial activity and identify the phytochemical constituents of some selected plants extract were applied. The inhibitory potency of ethanolic extracts of Strychnos ligustrina wood, roots of Calotropis gigantea, Fatuoa pilosa, and Neoalsomitra podagrica, whole plant of Cleome rutidosperma and Physalis angulata, stem barks of Alstonia spectabilis, Alstonia scholaris, Jatropha curcas and Plumeria alba, and leaves of Melia azedarach on the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain in vitro were tested. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry instrument was used to analyze the phytochemicals of the extracts. RESULTS: The Tetun ethnic people use 50 plant species as antimalarials. P. angulata, J. curcas, and A. spectabilis extracts show strong antiplasmodial activity with IC(50) values of 0.22, 0.22, and 1.23 μg/mL, respectively; N. podagrica, A. scholaris, F. pilosa, and P. alba were moderate antiplasmodials with IC(50) values of 11.60, 15.46, 24.92, and 36.39 μg/mL, respectively; and C. rutidosperma, M. azedarach, S. ligustrina, and C. gigantea were weak antiplasmodials with IC(50) values of 54.25, 63.52, 63.91, and 66.49 μg/mL, respectively. The phytochemicals identification data indicate that these 11 plants contain alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, coumarins, alcohols, thiols, phenolics, aldehydes, fatty acids, esters, and so forth. CONCLUSION: Plants widely used as antimalarials by the Tetun ethnic people is proven to have antiplasmodial activity.

This study is conducted to assess the amount of carbon stored in the above-ground biomass of the tree species at the Isabela State University Wildlife Sanctuary (ISUWS). A total of 34 different tree species were found with 285 individuals were identified with a total of 47.50 t/ha Carbon stock and 164.09 t/ha of accumulated CO2. It was found in the study that Alstonia scholaris contains the largest amount of above-ground biomass (AGB) with a mass of 20.97 t/ha and Carbon stock of 9.44 t/ha followed by Samanea saman with a mass of 13.40 t/ha and Carbon stock of 6.03 t/ha. Based on the result and conclusion of this investigation, the following recommendations were drawn: Conduct a study concerning the carbon emission of the area to determine the relationship with its carbon sequestration potential; and conduct tree planting activity to open areas in the study site to increase its carbon stock potential and fully serve the purpose of the area as a wildlife sanctuary.

Alstonia scholaris could be used as a traditional medicinal plant in China for the treatment of acute respiratory, which might be caused by respiratory tract infections. The investigation tested the anti-infective effects of total alkaloids extract (TA) from leaves of A. scholaris, and as a result, TA inhibited herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza A virus (H1N1) in vitro respectively. In addition, the survival days of mice were prolonged, and the lung weights and mortality of mice were decreased significantly, after oral administrated TA in H1N1 and beta-hemolytic streptococcus infectious models in vivo respectively. The finding supported partly the traditional usage of A. scholaris in the treatment of respiratory infections. Graphic Abstract

The composition and structure of vegetation is one way to determine the level of control and distribution of a habitat, including in Lowang Gali forest tourism which has the potential as an educational tourism area in East Lombok Regency. Based on the observations, there were 14 families with 22 species of woody plants. The moraceae family is the family with the largest number of species, consisting of 5 (five) ficus genera, namely: Ficus racemosa, Ficus salicifolia, Ficus variegate, Ficus sur and Ficus seftica. Based on the results of data analysis, the highest INP value for seedlings was Ficus seftica (23,39%), the highest sapling was Alstonia scholaris (19,80%), the highest pile strata was Dysoxylium gaudichadianun (50,44%) and tree strata. the highest were Alstonia scholaris (45,15%) and Dysoxylium gaudichadianun (45,15%). The index value of plant species diversity in the Lowang Gali forest tourism area is more than 1 (1 ≤H'≤ 3) which indicates moderate diversity.

Background:: Phytochemical studies on the ethanolic extract of aerial parts of Alstonia scholaris lead to the isolation of two new triterpenoid of the lanostanetype, lanosta 5ene,24-ethyl-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), lanosta,5ene,24-ethyl-3-O-β-D-glucopyranosideester (2) and new ursane type triterpenoidmethylester, 12-ursene-2,3,18,19-tetrol,28 acetate (nighascholarene) (3), together with seven known triterpenes, betuline, triterpene of the lupane type, alstoprenyol (4), 3β-hydroxy-28-β-acetoxy-5-olea triterpene (5),α-amyrin acetate (6), α-amyrin (7), lupeol acetate (8), 3β-hydroxy-24-nor-urs-4,12,28-triene triterpene (9) and ursolic acid (l0). Methodology:: The triterpenoid structures of these colorless compounds were deduced from the 1H and 13C-NMR data, and in particular from the application of two-dimensional 1H, 13C correlation experiments as well as by comparison with reported literature data. Results and Conclusion: This study deals with isolation and structural elucidation of natural new triterpenoidesters and glycosides with anti-inflammatory activity.

Aims: The fragrant flowers of Alstonia scholaris are rich in volatile compounds or essential oils, which comprise terpenes such as 1,8-cineole and linalool. The effects of the oils on the growth of Aspergillus niger were assessed for the first time in the present study. Study Design: Fungal growth assay. Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Department of Botany, St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, between September 2006 and December 2006. Methodology: The volatile compounds of A. scholaris were extracted through steam distillation and hydrodistillation by using a Clevenger apparatus. The effect of the steam distillate (10% v/v) on the number of spores of A. niger was observed over 5 days. Furthermore, three fractions with distinct fragrances and boiling points were collected through hydrodistillation. The effects of each fraction on mycelial growth and sporulation in A. niger were examined. Accordingly, each hydrodistilled fraction was incorporated in growth medium (10% v/v) inoculated with fungal spores. The growth of the fungus was observed over 5 days. Distilled water was used as the control. All experiments were conducted in triplicate. Results: The fungal samples treated with steam distillates showed a significantly lower number of spores than the control after 5 days (165 ± 36 vs. 35 ± 7 spores/mL) at P ≤ .05. Furthermore, the fungal samples treated with the hydrodistilled fractions exhibited a delayed mycelial growth and sporulation compared with the control over 5 days. Fraction 1 was most effective in delaying mycelial growth (Day 4 vs. Day 1). Notably, on Day 4 none of the treated samples but the control sample exhibited sporulation. Conclusion: The volatile compounds of A. scholaris flowers clearly suppressed and delayed both mycelial growth and sporulation in A. niger but did not inhibit growth entirely. Hence, the floral volatile compounds exhibit fungistatic activity against A. niger.

Alstonia scholaris, a tropical evergreen tree belonging to the family Apocynaceae has traditionally been referred to have anti-cancer activity, but it has not been explored so far. Therefore, the study is aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effect of aqueous and ethanolic bark extracts of Alstonia scholaris against cervical cancer cell line (HeLa Cell line). The bark part of Alstonia scholaris was collected, dried, powdered and made to a coarse powder. Maceration was carried out for the bark of Alstonia Scholaris using two different solvents like ethanol and aqueous solutions. Both the extracts were collected, evaporated to dryness. The extracts were then investigated for the phytochemical screening and cytotoxic effect by MTT Assay using cervical cancer cell line (HeLa cell line). The phytochemical screening of both the extracts showed the presence of various phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, gums and mucilage. The IC50 value of Alstonia scholaris of aqueous extract was found to be 13.38µg/ml, whereas the IC50 value of ethanol extract was found to be 14.21µg/ml. According to the results obtained, it has been proved that the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Alstonia Scholaris bark showed the presence of significant phytoconstituents and also showed significant cytotoxic effect (MTT Assay) against cervical cancer.

Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. (Apocynaceae) is a plant with various pharmacological activities, especially anti-inflammatory activity. There were rare reports about the phytochemicals of its flowers. This study aimed to determine the chemical constituents of the extracts from A. scholaris flowers along with screening for their anti-lipoxygenase activities. The fresh flowers (40 kg) of A. scholaris were dried at 45 ◦C and powdered (4 kg, 10% yield of fresh flower). The powder of dry flowers (4 kg) were extracted with 95% ethanol by using ultrasonic assistance to obtain ethanolic crude extract (ASF-EtOH) 201 g (5% yield of dry flower). The ASF-EtOH (100 g) was further subjected to liquid-liquid partition to obtain dichloromethane layer (ASF-DCM), ethyl acetate layer (ASF-EtOAc) and water layer (ASF-Water) around 26.4 g (26.4% yield), 9.3 g (9.3% yield) and 46.6 g (46.6% yield), respectively. All of the extracts were quantified for their chemical compositions by using colorimetric methods. Then their anti-lipoxygenase activities were evaluated by using linoleic acid as a substrate and lipoxygenase as an enzyme. The results indicated that one gram of ASF-EtOH, ASF-DCM, ASF-EtOAc and ASF-Water contained total alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids and triterpenoids in the range of 1.25-5.15 mg berberine chloride equivalent, 4.47-36.64 mg digoxin equivalent, 37.87-40.16 mg rutin equivalent and 110.88-359.32 mg ursolic acid equivalent, respectively. The inhibitory effects towards lipoxygenase enzyme of ASF-EtOH, ASF-DCM, ASF-EtOAc (0.2 mg/ml) were 73.7, 89.9 and 67.4 %, respectively, which were higher than that of diclofenac sodium, an anti-inflammatory drug, at the same concentration. While ASF-Water (1 mg/ml) inhibited lipoxygenase activity around 19.4%. These results exhibited potential of the flowers of A. scholaris to provide plenty of secondary metabolites with potent anti-lipoxygenase activity. Therefore, the flowers of A. scholaris is a good material for further purification and discovery of anti-lipoxygenase agent.

Aluminium toxicity commonly affects plants and considerably reduces crop production. However, some plants, particularly tropical trees, have adapted to high aluminium concentrations by using strategies such as aluminium accumulation. The present study is the first report of aluminium hyperaccumulation in Alstonia scholaris, which is a common tree in Mumbai. Aluminium was accidently detected in the inflorescence tissue of A. scholaris. Volumetric analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry revealed that the aluminium concentration exceeded 1000 μg/g (dry weight). Notably, aluminium appeared to be stored in the fresh inflorescence stalks but not in the flowers. The aluminium concentration in the stalks determined through volumetric analysis was 10689.7±846.8 μg/g dry weight. Furthermore, the aluminium concentration in oven-dried stalks determined through atomic absorption spectrometry was 4080.36±11.60 μg/g. Because A. scholaris accumulates aluminium in its aerial parts at a concentration exceeding 1000 ppm, it can be considered a hyperaccumulator of aluminium. The high concentration of organic acids in the flowers indicated the possible role of organic acids in compartmentalization or sequestration of aluminium in the inflorescence stalks. Investigating the molecular and genetic basis of the mechanism(s) underlying aluminium sequestration in A. scholaris can provide important information for the development of crop varieties that are minimally affected by aluminium toxicity.

Mimusops elengi Linn. is traditionally used as antianxiety, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antioxidants etc. Also, conventionally, Alstonia scholaris Linn. is used in treating cancer, psychosis, nociception etc. The present study was designed to appraise neuropharmacological and cytotoxic potential of M. elengi and A. scholaris leaves. Hole cross and hole board tests were conducted for assessing sedative effect, thiopental sodium induced sleeping time test for hypnotic property, elevated plus maze (EPM) test for anxiolytic potential, tail suspension test for antidepressant effect and finally brine shrimp lethality bioassay for evaluating cytotoxic potential of both extracts. In both hole cress and hole board tests, M. elengi leaves (MEL) displayed greater locomotion reduction compared to A. scholaris leaves (ASL). Besides, in thiopental sodium induced sleeping time and EPM test, both extracts confirmed significant (p

Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br., an evergreen tropical plant rich in indole alkaloids with significant physiological activity, is traditionally used to treat respiratory diseases in China. This study was conducted to establish the toxicity profile of the alkaloid extract (TA) of A. scholaris leaves in non-rodents. After oral administration of a single dose (4 g/kg.bw), a number of transient symptoms, such as unsteady gait, drooling, emesis, and reddening of peri-oral mucosa, were observed, but no treatment-related mortality. A sub-chronic toxicity study with a range of doses of TA (20, 60 and 120 mg/kg.bw) was conducted for a 13-week treatment period, followed by 4-week recovery observation. Except for emesis and drooling in majority of animals in 120 mg/kg.bw treatment group, no clinical changes were observed in TA-treated animals. Data from electrocardiography, bone marrow, urine, fecal, hematology and clinical chemistry analyses were comparable between TA-treated and control animals. No significant differences in the relative organ weights and histopathological characteristics were evident between the TA-treated and control groups. Accordingly, the non-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) of TA was established as 120 mg/kg.bw. Our results add further knowledge to the safety database for indole alkaloid extracts from A. scholaris with potential utility as novel drug candidates. Graphic Abstract

At present dry flower business is fastest growing industry in India. Diverse and exotic blooms were available in nature, which can be converted in handsome value added products using simple drying techniques. Press drying is a method used to preserve the plants to use on pictures, place cards, stationery etc. Experiment was undertaken with an objective to standardize the different press drying techniques on dehydration of some ornamental foliage. Experiment was laid out in CRD with five replications and eight treatments. Treatments were set based on trial-and-error method for all the foliage. 10 different foliages were used for experiment purpose. From the results of above study, it can be concluded that wooden press found best suitable technique for press drying of Thuja orentalis foliage. Iron press found excellent technique for Ficus religiousa and Caryota mitis leaves. Tiles pressed in microwave oven (720 micro powers) for 2 min found finest technique for Aralia balfouriana, 3 min found appropriate for Lantana camara, Wedelia trilobata, Alstonia scholaris and Polyalthia longifolia leaves and 4 min found ideal for Nephrolepis exaltata and Araucaria excelsa leaves.

Abstract Indole alkaloids extract (IAAS) was prepared from leaves of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br., an evergreen tropical plant widely distributed throughout the world. This plant has been used historically by the Dai ethnic people of China to treat respiratory diseases. This study evaluated the genotoxicity and safety pharmacology of IAAS to support clinical use. The bacterial reverse mutation (Ames) test, in vitro mammalian chromosomal aberration test, and in vivo mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus (MN) test were performed to evaluate genotoxicity. Mice were administered IAAS (240, 480, or 960 mg/kg bw) once orally to observe adverse central nervous system effects. Furthermore, beagle dogs were administered IAAS (10, 30, 60 mg/kg bw) once via the duodenum to evaluate its effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. IAAS with or without S9-induced metabolic activation showed no genotoxicity in the Ames test up to 500 μg/plate, in the mammalian chromosomal aberration test up to 710 μg/mL, or in the MN test up to 800 mg/kg bw. No abnormal neurobehavioral effects were observed in mice following treatment with up to 960 mg/kg bw of IAAS. Moreover, blood pressure, heart rate, electrocardiogram parameters, and depth and rate of breathing in anesthetized beagle dogs did not differ among the IAAS doses or from the vehicle group. These data indicated that IAAS did not induce mutagenicity, clastogenicity, or genotoxicity, and no pharmaco-toxicological effects were observed in the respiratory, cardiovascular, or central nervous systems. Our results increased understanding of safety considerations associated with IAAS, and may indicate that IAAS is a possible drug candidate. Graphic Abstract

The present study was conducted to document the ethnomedicinal plants used against jaundice by the tea tribes of Morigaon district of Assam, India. An ethnomedicinal field study was carried out from June 2016 - July 2017. Information was gathered by using a semi-structured questionnaire about the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used against jaundice by the tea tribes of Morigaon district of Assam. Documented data was evaluated using the quantitative ethno-botanical indices of fidelity level (FL), Use Value (UV) and Family Use Value (FUV). From the ethno-botanical investigation, a total of 39 species of plants covering 36 genera and 27 families respectively have been enumerated. A total of 53 informants aged from 20-75 years were interviewed to record the ethnomedicinal data. Lamiaceae was the dominant family. Among the plant portions, leaves were most frequently used. Among the 39 medicinal plant species recognized mostly were herbs. The plants species having the highest use value were Drymaria cordata trailed by Xylosma longifolia and Achyranthes aspera, Aegle marmelos, Alstonia scholaris and Justicia gendarussa . The fidelity level was 100% for Achyranthes aspera, Cheilocostus speciosus, Clerodendrum infortunatum, Justicia gendarussa, Lawsonia inermis, Coffea benghalensis and Saccharum officinarum . The tea tribes of Morigaon district still relies on herbal therapies for curing jaundice. Coffea benghalensis has not been previously reported as a remedy of jaundice from Northeast India. Further research is needed to investigate the phytochemistry and pharmacological effectiveness of the plant species that could be the basis for the isolation and development of some novel phyto-therapeutic active compounds in the future.

Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br (Apocynaceae), a tropical tree native to Indian subcontinent, Australasia, and Malay Peninsula is well documented in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda to cure fever, pain, inflammation, cancer, respiratory, and skin disorders. Nearly 169 alkaloids have been reported along with iridoids, coumarins, flavonoids and steroids from this plant. The highlights of current review are demonstrated in six tables encompassing ethnomedicinal values, pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, clinical significances, and patents associated with A. scholaris. The data analysis of these tables revealed the requirements to convert existed knowledge into finished products. For example, strictamine isolated from this plant has shown an equipotent antiviral activity to that of acyclovir. However, the discovery of such new potent antiviral indole alkaloids will require structure activity relationship studies with natural analogues of this scaffold. In conclusion, despite of over 100 patents and numerous pharmacological activities of A. scholaris, only one product has reached the market. The report stipulates the gap between the existing knowledge and the requisites for commercialization of A. scholaris derived products.

The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of different media, plant growth regulators, carbon sources, sucrose concentrations and pH of the medium for indole alkaloids (IAs) accumulation in the callus culture of Alstonia scholaris. The optimized conditions for the accumulation of IAs like echitamine, acetylechitamine, tubotaiwine and picrinine were found to be the MS medium supplemented with 0.3 mg/L of 2,4-D, 0.5 mg/L of FAP and 3% (w/v) sucrose with medium pH 5.8. Efforts were also made to standardize the enrichment protocols of these IAs by modulating concentration and incubation period of various elicitors and precursors. The quantitative analysis of IAs in callus samples was performed by using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Substantial enrichments of acetylechitamine (6.3780 mg/g DW i.e. ~ 15-fold) and echitamine (1.6513 mg/g DW i.e. ~ 12-fold) were found with 4.5 g/L KCl in 10 days incubation period, followed by tubotaiwine (0.0952 mg/g DW i.e. ~ 4-folds) with 3.0 g/L KCl in 10 days and picrinine (0.3784 mg/g DW i.e. ~ 4-fold) with 4.5 g/L KCl in 2 days.

The study of ethanolic crude extracts from the leaves of devil tree (Alstonia scholaris) were extracted by 95% ethanol and used at six concentrations (0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 and 2.5 g/L). The six concentrations of devil tree crude extracts were tested on the inhibitory on seed germination and seedling growth of six tested crops (mimosa (Mimosa pigra), chinese kale (Brassica oleracea), amaranthus (Amaranthus viridis), barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli), weedy rice (Oryza sativa) and waxy corn (Zea mays). Inhibitory of five characteristics (seed germination, shoot length, root length, seedling fresh weight and seedling dry weight) were recorded. The results showed that all crude extracts of devil tree (0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 and 2.5 g/L concentrations) inhibited seed germination and seedling growth of six tested plants for 9-100% inhibition. whereas, the devil tree crude extracts at 2.5 g/L concentration showed the highest inhibition of seed germination and seedling growth in term of shoot length, root length, seedling fresh weight and seedling dry weight characteristics at 100% inhibition against three tested plants (mimosa, chinese kale as well as amaranthus). A raise of concentration of devil tree crude extracts showed increased inhibition of seed germination and seedling growth in six tested plants. The result is showed the antigerminative effects of devil tree (A. scholaris) as well as suggested that the utilization of the ethanolic crude extracts from the leaves of devil tree (A. scholaris) so as to weed management.

In the quest of biomonitoring urban environmental health, the present study focuses on the assessment of tree foliage exposed to vehicular-pollution in Thane city, India. Tree species being continuously exposed to air pollution tends to absorb the pollutants by their foliage surface. Biochemical, morphological and anatomical changes in four selected tree species namely Alstonia scholaris, Cassia siamea, Ficus religiosa and Mangifera indica growing at Teen Haat Naka (polluted site) and Yeoor hills (forest area as control site) were investigated. It was observed that vehicular emissions strike air pollution tolerance index, leaf pigments (proline, carotenoids, phaeophytine), anticipated performance index, along with anatomical variations in stomata, palisade ratio and vein-islet ratio in selected tree species. The analysis revealed that for combating vehicular-pollution in urban areas Mangifera indica was found to be tolerant and excellent categorized tree species while Alstonia scholaris, Ficus religiosa and Cassia siamea as sensitive to vehicular exhaust. The variations in foliage architecture can serve as a biomonitoring tool of vehicular emissions in urban areas.

Two novel monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, alstolarines A and B (1–2), were isolated from the leaves and twigs of Alstonia scholaris. Compound 1 is the first vobasinyl-type alkaloid with a 6/5/8/5/6/5 hexacyclic architecture featuring an unprecedented 21-oxa-4-azaspiro[4,4]nonane unit. Compound 2 is the first 21-nor-vobasinyl-type alkaloid with a unique 3-oxa-4-azatricyclo[5.1.1.13,20]undecane ring system. Their structures including absolute configurations were established by a combination of spectroscopic data analyses, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The plausible biogenetic pathways of 1 and 2 were also proposed. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited promising vasorelaxant activities with EC50 values of 4.6 and 6.7 μM, and compound 2 showed moderate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 19.3 μM.

Proteolytic subunit of the caseinolytic protease system of Plasmodium knowlesi (Pk-ClpP; EC 3.4.21.92) is considered a viable target for antimalarial drug development to eradicate P. knowlesi malaria infection in Malaysia and Southeast Asian region. Inhibition of this system leads to a disruption in the protein homeostasis molecular machinery and therefore be lethal for the parasite. While plants are considered excellent sources as bioactive compounds exhibiting inhibition activity towards Pk-ClpP, many local medicinal plants remain unexplored. This article expands the data collected from the inhibition properties of the methanolic extract of Asystasia gangetica (Chinese Violet), Alstonia scholaris (Pulai Tree), Piper retrofractum (Javanese Long Pepper) and Smallanthus sonchifolius (Yacon) towards Pk-ClpP. These plants are widely found in Malaysia and Indonesia and have been traditionally used in various medical treatments. The present dataset showed that the extracts contained phenolic and flavonoid compounds in various concentrations, whereby S. sonchifolius was found to have the lowest content of phenolic and flavonoid contents, while A. gangetica and A. scholaris were statistically comparable, yet higher than P. retrofactum and S. sonchifolus. Further inhibition data assay towards Pk-ClpP revealed that A. gangetica, A. scholaris and P. retrofactum demonstrated remarkable inhibition activity with IC50 values of 39.06 ± 1.98, 48.92 ± 1.52, and 87.63 ± 3.55, respectively. However, the inhibition activity of these extracts was significantly lower than a serine protease inhibitor of phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoridenone (PMSF). Meanwhile, S. sonchifolus did not exhibit significant inhibition activity towards Pk-ClpP. In addition, Pk-ClpP was not inhibited by a cysteine protease inhibitor of E64.

Early growth performances of 11 native tree species were investigated in three different sites in Mindanao, Philippines, to evaluate their adaptability and potential for plantation development. Three alien species were added to assess how native species could potentially compete with these alien species based on survival rate, diameter growth rate (DGR), and height growth rate (HGR). A year after planting, the native species common to all sites that obtained &gt, 80% survival rate were Casuarina equisetifolia L. Alstonia macrophylla Wall. ex. G.Don., Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br., and Parkia javanica (Lam.) Merr. and were comparable to an alien species Acacia mangium Willd. The species with the lowest survival rate (30%) across all sites was Duabanga moluccana Blume. Native species P. javanica, Eucalyptus deglupta Blume, and A. macrophylla all had a DGR of 34 mm year−1 and were comparable with the alien species Schizolobium parahyba (Vell.) S.F.Blake with 38 mm year−1. However, the HGR of native species E. deglupta (245 cm year−1) and Melia dubia Cav. (230 cm year−1) were higher than an alien species S. parahyba (222 cm year−1). No native species can compete with the DGR (52 mm year−1) and HGR (384 cm year−1) of A. mangium. Rainfall significantly explained 13%–97% of DGR, HGR and survival rate of &gt, 70% of the species while air temperature explained about 17%–96% of the variations of similar variables. This early assessment provides a strong basis to better predict the early performances of native species in the Philippines. Through this, appropriate silvicultural intervention can be recommended towards improving the growth and survival of the native seedlings as alternative industrial tree plantation species in the country.

Morphological changes in insect-induced galls in flowers and fruits of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. (Apocynaceae) were recorded. The insect Pauropsylla tuberculata Crawford (Homoptera: Psyllidae) penetrates the thalamus of young flowers inducing hypertrophy and hyperplasia in the parenchymatous tissue resulting in the formations of green galls of various sizes and shapes. The reproductive organs, stamens, and pistil of galled flowers are sterile. Pollen sterility was associated with abnormal behaviour of endothecium and the tapetum. In young anthers of severely infested flowers, the sporogenous tissue and tapetum degenerate. In anthers of some infested flowers, the callose wall surrounding pollen mother cells was thick although tapetal cells showed normal signs of degeneration. In anthers of a few infested flowers, the microspores were formed but they degenerated along with tapetal cells. Anthers of some diseased flowers contained thick-walled vacuolated and sterile microspores surrounded by degenerated tapetum layer and radially elongated endothecial cells which lacked the usual fibrous thickenings. The size of gynoecium and the size and number of ovules were reduced in galled flowers. Ovules failed to differentiate and represented by a globular undifferentiated mass of cells. A large number of green, conical galls are formed on fruits by hypertrophy and hyperplasia in the parenchymatous pericarp. Size of severely infested fruits was reduced, and they became thick, circular and seedless. As a consequence, sexual reproduction of the host tree was completely inhibited.

Objective: The purpose of the present study was aimed at evaluating the antipyretic and antiulcer activity on leaves of Alstonia scholaris L. (Family Apocynaceae) on albino Wistar rats. The antipyretic and antiulcer activity of the ethanolic extract of the A. scholaris L. leaves in three different concentrations (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were compared with standard paracetamol and pantoprazole, which was evaluated by employing brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia and ethanol-induced ulcer model. The biochemical parameters such as the volume of gastric juice secretion, pH, total acidity, ulcer index, percentage protection, and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were also studied. Methods: A. scholaris leaves were extracted with ethanol by Soxhlet extraction method. The dried extract was used for further phytochemical and pharmacological analysis. The antipyretic effect was studied using brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia. The ethanol-induced ulcer model was used to study the antiulcer effect. Results: The percentage yield of ethanolic extract of A. scholaris leaves was 15.81%w/w, respectively. The extract showed significant antipyretic and antiulcer effects when compared with standard paracetamol and pantoprazole. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of A. scholaris has significant antipyretic and antiulcer activity.

This review aims at studying the phytochemistry and biological activities of some selected Apocynaceae plants. Eleven members of this family were reviewed for their phytochemistry and biological activities. Interestingly, the commonly isolated compounds reported from Mondia whitei (Hook.f.) Skeels, Secondatia floribunda A. DC, Carissa carandas, Tabernaemontana divaricate, Nerium oleander, Wrightia tinctoria, Tabernaemontana divaricate, Alstonia scholaris, Carrisa spinarum Linn, Thevetia peruviana and Caralluma lasiantha were triterpenoids, flavonoids, phytosterols, cardiac glycosides and lignans. All of them exhibited remarkable biological activities, mostly similar to each other. This review provides a detailed insight into the pharmacological activities of these selected members of this family.

Objective The present study investigated the anticataract activity of a novel isoflavonoid, isolated from stem bark of Alstonia scholaris, against fructose-induced experimental cataract. Methods The bioactivity of fractions extracted from A. scholaris, an isolated isoflavonoid (ASII) was screened using in vitro (goat lens) and in vivo (albino rats) experimental cataract models. For the in vivo evaluation, albino rats (12–15 weeks old) were divided into five groups (n = 6). Group I (normal) received 0.3% carboxymethyl cellulose solution (10 mL/[kg·d], p.o.). Group II (control) received 10% (w/v) fructose solution in their drinking water. Groups III–V received ASII at three different doses, 0.1, 1.0 and 10 mg/(kg·d), concurrently with 10% (w/v) fructose solution. Treatment was given daily for 8 consecutive weeks. During the protocol, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, blood glucose level and lenticular opacity were monitored at 2-week intervals. Pathophysiological markers (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde) in eye lenses were examined at the end of the 8-week treatment period. Results The results of in vitro study showed that A. scholaris extract and the active fraction (A3) reduced the lenticular opacity as compared to toxic control group. The in vivo study showed that 8-week administration of ASII (0.1, 1.0 and 10 mg/[kg·d], p.o.) led to significant reduction in blood pressure and blood glucose level and retarded the initiation and evolution of cataractogenesis, compared to the fructose-induced cataract model control. Additionally, ASII treatment led to significant improvement in lens antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione) and decreased lens malondialdehyde, compared to the control group (group II). Conclusion Results revealed that administration of ASII played a crucial role in the reduction of cataract formation in diabetic and hypertensive models.

The Ethnobotany study of society advantage knowing plant species that be used and this usefulness. This study purpose identification plant’s utilization and local wisdom in Bedugul area. This method is purposive sampling that based profession with interview to Dukun, Baten, housewife, Farmer, craftsmen and builder. Filed data were processed with quantitative to get the benefit index (BI) on 181 species. Top ten species have been the highest of BI such as: Musa paradisiaca (0.026718), Arenga pinnata (0.022901), Artocarpus integer (0.015267), Cocos nucifera (0.015267), Colocasia esculenta (0.015267), Curcuma domestica (0.015267), Schizostachyum brachyckadum (0.015267), Moringa oleifera (0.01145), Aleurites moluccanus (0.01145) & Allium sativum (0.01145). Four of them have rare status i. e: Borassus flabellifer, Alstonia scholaris, Eeucresta horsfieldii & Saurauia bracteosa. Bali culture which has reserved with conservation education (Tumpek Wariga ceremony, Wana Kertih & Danau Kertih) makes the environment sustainability.

Coal mining activities change the environment physically, chemically and biologically that affect post-mining vegetation. Reclamation and revegetation of post-coal mining land to restore the potential Kalimantan land as important production factor for crop cultivation. The pioneer plant function was to helps micro and macro ecosystems of post-coal mining environmental to be more stable. Kalimantan Island has many pioneering species, the most dominant is Macaranga gigantea, Trema tomentosa, Alstonia scholaris, Croton argyratus and Homalanthus populneus. Indicator of canopy growth to find out land cover creates a micro climate, fertility, input of forest plants and wild animal feed. Homalanthus populneus, Trema tomentosa, Alstonia scholaris show optimal canopy growth. Three of the five pioneer species studied, Alstonia scholaris, Homalanthus populneus, Croton argyratus has optimal growth. Homalanthus populneus is a pioneer that can adapts well in open areas, especially post-mining land.

Four indole alkaloids, alstonlarsines A–D (1–4), were isolated from Alstonia scholaris and structurally characterized. Compound 1 possesses a new carbon skeleton with a cage-shaped 9-azatricyclo[4.3.1.03,8]decane motif, and compounds 2–4 feature a rare carbon skeleton that was found in nature for the first time. Plausible biosynthetic routes for 1–4 are proposed. Compound 1 showed DRAK2 inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 11.65 ± 0.63 μΜ.

To develop effective vegetation strips for filtering out point source air pollutants, several characteristics of vegetation strips and concentrations of 6 air pollutants (PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, SO₂, NOX, ozone, benzene) at five sites in Delhi were studied. Four air pollutants were within the prescribed limits; whereas the concentration of PM₁₀ (80.27−710 μg/m³) was 3-4 times while PM₂.₅ (27.34−327.11 μg/m³) was 2-3 times higher than the standard limits notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India in 2009. Anand Vihar (AV) was the most polluted site whereas the Mandir Marg (MM) the least polluted. Species composition of the vegetation strips and their abundance, canopy type, and size of the leaf determined the efficacy as a filter for air pollutants. The abundance of broadleaved species such as Ficus religiosa, Alstonia scholaris and Polyalthia longifolia showed negative, statistically significant (p

Plants constituents are a reliable source of the remedial need of humanity for ages by being the basis of the traditional medicinal system and often serving as the prototype for designing modern medicine. Several plants are used in traditional medicine for ages without proper administration guidelines in terms of dosages. Several toxicological analyses revealed side-effects of such therapies beyond a specific dose. One such plant is Alstonia scholaris, widely used in numerous traditional medicines to treat diseases like ulcers, asthma, diabetes, etc. The present study investigated the neurotoxic effect of the plant extract through oxidative stress in Swiss albino mice. The treated mice showed anxiety, neophobic and depression-like properties compared to control mice. The biochemical parameters show an increase in Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration while decreasing the total protein content in different brain regions of treated mice. The Glutathione Reductase (GR) activity shows an increase in treated mice compared to the control one. The study indicates that Alstonia scholaris may cause severe damage to the central nervous system when administered without a proper guideline.

In the human history, a medical emergency has emerged in the form of Covid-19 disease. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome which has become pandemic. The medical treatment of Covid-19 consists of symptomatic management and oxygen supply, with ventilation for patients with acute respiratory failure. There is no specific treatment for Covid-19. Globally, efforts are being made to verify the efficacy of traditional system of medicines to fight against the Covid-19. Ayurveda, the traditional system of Indian medicine, has also number of herbal medicines which can be used to treat the systems of Covid-19. The Ayush-64 drug is used to treat Malaria (Visama Jvara) and it has been developed by CCRAS, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India. Contents of Ayush 64 drug are: Saptaparna (Alstonia scholaris R. Br.) Bark Aqueous Extract 100 mg; Katuki (Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex. Benth) Root do 100 mg; Kirata tikta (Swertia Chirata (Pexb ex. Karst) Whole plant do 100 mg; and Kaberuka (Caesalpinia crista Linn.) Seed powder 200 mg. This paper intends to understand the drug actions of contents of Ayush 64 according to Ayurvedic point of view.

Vehicular emissions containing traces of different heavy metals are known to cause significant contamination of roadside soils and plants. The present study was conducted to investigate the heavy metal concentrations in roadside soil and plant samples (Alstonia scholaris, Nerium oleander, Tabernaemontana divaricata, and Thevetia peruviana) collected from urban areas of Amritsar city of Punjab, India, under different traffic densities. The soil and plant samples were collected in pre- and post-monsoon seasons from seven roadside sites under varying levels of traffic density and analyzed for four heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn). In addition to that, total protein and carotenoid contents in plant samples were also determined. pH and electrical conductivity analysis of roadside soil samples revealed slight to strongly alkaline and non-saline nature of soil. Significant reduction in contents of total proteins and carotenoids was observed in plants collected from sites with moderate to high traffic density. The trend of heavy metal contents in plants and their corresponding soil samples was observed to be Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd for both the seasons. Index of geo-accumulation indicated moderate contamination of soil with metals analyzed, while bio-accumulation factor (BAF) showed both absorption and accumulation of metals in plants under study. The study revealed significant contamination of roadside soil and plants of Amritsar city which was linked to vehicular emissions posing potential risk to human health.