Search

The reduction in agricultural production due to the negative impact of insects and weeds, as well as the health and economic burden associated with vector-borne diseases, has promoted the wide use of chemicals that control these “enemies.” However, the use of these synthetic chemicals has been recognized to elicit negative impacts on the environment as well as the health and wellbeing of man. In this study, we presented an overview of recent updates on the environmental and health impacts of synthetic pesticides against agro-pest and disease vectors while exhaustive reviewing the potentials of natural plant products from Zanthoxylum species (Rutaceae) as sustainable alternatives. This study is expected to spur further research on exploiting these plants and their chemicals as safe and effective pesticide entities to minimize the impact of their chemical and synthetic counterparts on health and the environment. Graphical abstract

Purpose: This study was designed to explore the nutritional (proximate, mineral, vitamin) and antinutritional compositions of Synsepalumdulcificum seeds.Method: proximate, mineral, vitamin and antinutritional compositions were evaluated inSynsepalum dulcificum seeds using standard procedures.Results: Proximate composition of the seeds showed moisture content (44.30 ± 0.26%), ash (1.44 ± 0.14%), crude fat (1.33 ± 0.58%), crude fibre (1.30 ± 0.26%), protein (12.32 ± 0.10%) and carbohydrates (39.31 ± 0.57%). Mineral analysis of the seeds showed the presence of some elements such as potassium, sodium, manganese, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Result of the vitamin analysis showed that the seeds contain vitamin C (4.84 ± 0.95mg/g), vitamin A (3.02 ± 0.47 mg/g) and vitamin E (0.47± 0.01mg/g). The antinutritional parameters analyzed were oxalate (8.42 ± 1.63%), phytate (4.57 ± 0.48%) and hemagglutinin (3.74 ± 0.01%).Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that S. dulcificum seeds have appreciable nutritional contents (such as protein, minerals and vitamins) that are of immense health benefits and low antinutrient content. Further studies aimed at the utilization of this seed in human and livestock nutrition is warranted.

Background Malaria has continued to be a threat to man and his wellbeing, especially Africans and Asians. New antimalarial drugs are urgently needed to mitigate malaria treatment failure due to resistant Plasmodium species. Medicinal plants used by indigenous Nigerians for treating fever and malaria such as Sida acuta Burm.f. (Malvaceae) could be a promising source of lead compounds for developing new generations of antimalarial drugs. The effects of ethanol extract of S. acuta leaves (EESAL) on malaria parasitemia, haematological and biochemical status of P. berghei-infected mice were investigated, using the 4-day curative test. Methodology EESAL was prepared by maceration method. The phyto-constituents and acute toxicity profile of the extract were evaluated using standard protocols. In addition, malaria parasitemia and chemo-suppression, and indicators of haematological and biochemical status of P. berghei-infected mice treated with EESAL were assessed. Results At 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg/d b.w., p.o doses for 4 consecutive days, EESAL significantly (p p.o) used as standard antimalarial drug in this study. The packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC) counts of negative control are significantly (p p p.o. Conclusion These results indicate that the EESAL possesses antimalarial activity and normalizes alterations in haematological and biochemical status of malaria-infected mice.

Food-derived bioactive peptides are gaining popularity for their vast amount of potential health benefits against diseases such as obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and many more. However, many of these bioactivities are demonstrated using in vitro models, which do not completely reflect the true conditions that peptides experience upon oral ingestion. Furthermore, results obtained from in vivo studies are not entirely reproducible in other in vivo models due to systemic physiological differences. This review discusses the different bioaccessibility challenges, such as gastrointestinal tract hydrolysis by proteases, food matrix interactions, and intestinal barrier interaction that must be considered when developing peptide-based nutraceuticals or functional foods. The paper also discusses the potential avenues for improving bioaccessibility of bioactive peptides, amongst other factors that should be considered, during the design and production phases.

This study evaluated the effects of methanol extract of Peltophorum pterocarpum stem bark (MEPTS) on blood glucose level and lipid profile of Plasmodium berghei ANKA 65-parasitized mice. The levels...

Fagara zanthoxyloides Lam. (Rutaceae) is an indigenous Nigerian medicinal plant used traditionally for treating fever, malarial infection, sexual impotence, gonorrhea, malaria, dysmenorrhea, and abdominal pain. This study investigated the safety profile and antimalarial activity of methanol extract of Fagara zanthoxyloides root-bark on Plasmodium berghei-infected mice. Phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity (LD50) of MEFZRB were determined using standard methods. Thirty-six Swiss mice (28–34 g) were distributed into 6 groups (n = 6). Groups 1 and 2 served as normal and negative control respectively. Group 3 mice were parasitized and treated with 5 mg/kg body weight of Coartem® (positive control). Groups 4–6 were P. berghei infected and orally treated with 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg body weight of MEFZRB respectively for 4 days. P. berghei infection was initiated by an intraperitoneal injection of 0.2 ml parasitized red blood cells. The effect of MEFZRB on percentage parasitemia, hematological indices, antioxidant status, liver and kidney functions, and lipid profile parameters was assessed. The LD50 of MEFZRB was 4073.1 mg/kg b.w. A significant (P

Most of our water resources are gradually becoming polluted due to the addition of foreign materials from the surroundings. These include organic of plant and animal origin, land surface washing, and industrial and sewage effluents. The problem of environmental pollution due to toxic metals has begun to cause concern now in most major metropolitan cities. Nsukka environs have been plagued with perennial problem of water supplies round the year and a better understanding of its water physicochemically status will help to address this daunting problem and issues of human health. The analysis carried out was on the utility water supplies in Nsukka area. Thirteen sampling areas consisting of four boreholes, six dug wells and three springs were chosen for this research work. A total of 26 water samples were taken from the sampling areas during the dry season and another 26 samples during the wet season. Water samples were collected from these sampling areas and refrigerated at 4°C for processing. Concentration of zinc was determined in each sample by spectrophotometric method. Harch Model C50 digital multi-range meter was used to measure the pH. Chemical parameter such as sulphate was also determined by spectrophotometric method. Bacteriological analysis of the water samples was carried out to ascertain whether there was faecal contamination by the use of multiple tube/most probable number techniques. Sulphate concentration of water sample from spring sources increased significantly (p0.05) exists in the concentration of zinc compared to all other test samples.

Jatropha curcas is used as an old herbal therapy in the treatment of several vector-borne diseases in several parts of Africa. Considering the burden of trypanosoma infection and the cost of currently available drugs, the search for more drugs that are effective, affordable and accessible is warranted. To investigate the anti-trypanosoma and ameliorative effects of ethanol extracts of Jatropha curcas root (EEJCR) on organ malfunctions associated with trypanosoma infection in rats, and its phytoconstituents and acute toxicity profile. Thirty rats were divided into six groups of rats (n = 5): nonparasitized rats in group 1 served as normal control and parasitized (1.8 × 106 trypanosomes/ml of Trypanosoma brucei brucei–infected blood) rats in group 2 served as trypanosome control. Parasitized rats in group 3 were treated with reference drug (diminazene aceturate) while groups 4–6 were treated with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day b.w. p.o. of EEJCR, respectively for 7 days. The acute toxicity profile of EEJCR was established in mice using the standard method. In a dose-dependent fashion, EEJCR reduced trypanosoma parasitaemia; 400 mg/kg/day b.w. of EEJCR gave 82.96% chemosuppression compared with 100% by diminazene aceturate. EEJCR also ameliorated trypanosoma-modified haematological and biochemical dysfunctions in a dose-related manner. The presence of tannins, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, glycosides and alkaloids was detected in EEJCR and it was tolerable up to 5000 mg/kg b.w. This study showed that EEJCR is safe, has anti-trypanosoma activity and reverses haematological and biochemical markers of organ malfunctions associated with trypanosoma infection. This observation justifies the old routine use of such herbal therapy in medicinal practices to treat trypanosomiasis.

Protein-energy malnutrition is a global challenge that demands urgent attention, especially with the increasing population growth and unmatched food security plans. One strategy is to expand the list of protein sources, such as neglected and underutilized crops, with high protein content. A good number of plant proteins, in addition to their nutritional benefits, exert therapeutic properties as seen in seeds derived from legumes and emerging sources such as hemp. In this review, the transepithelial transport, functional, and biological properties of hempseed proteins (HSPs) and peptides were discussed. The review also described the potential safety issues of incorporating hempseeds in food products. Due to the multitargeted effects of hempseed-derived proteins and their peptides against many chronic diseases, and their functional properties, current knowledge shows that hempseed has tremendous potential for functional food and nutraceutical applications. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The alarming rate of malnutrition and the attendant health consequences demand that underexploited nutrient-rich crops should be incorporated as part of our common dietary sources. Among these crops, hempseed is gaining attention as an emerging source of proteins and peptides with promising potential in prevention and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, and diseases whose etiology involves oxidative stress and inflammation. Fortunately, a growing body of research evidence is demonstrating that hempseed is a reservoir of proteins and peptides with nutraceutical potentials for curbing life-threatening diseases.

Objectives: Myristica fragrans is used in many parts of the world as a common spice and herbal medicine for managing a wide variety of ailments. The rich nutritional factors in M. fragrans seeds show potential application in food biofortification; however, the long-term safety of using a high dose of the seeds needs to be validated. This study seeks to investigate how oral administration of high doses of methanol (ME) and n-hexane (NHE) extracts of M. fragrans seed for one or two weeks affects the histology and serum markers of kidney and liver of rats. Methods: Adult male Swiss mice (6–7 weeks, 20–30 g) were used for acute toxicity study by standard methods, while male Wistar rats (6–8 weeks, 100–120 g) were used for sub-acute toxicity test. The sixty rats were distributed into five groups of 12 rats each: Group 1 received normal saline, groups 2 and 3 were orally treated with 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w/day ME while groups 4 and 5 were fed 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w/day NHE, respectively for 14 days. Six rats from each group were sacrificed on days 8 and 15 after 24 h of fasting. Markers of kidney and liver status of test and control animals were compared using one-way analysis of variance. Results: The presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, steroids, and tannins were detected in both extracts, although at varying levels. There was no obvious sign of toxicity nor mortality in acute toxicity test after 24 h of administration of extracts up to 5000 mg/kg b.w. However, there were significant (p

Considering the involvement of oxidative stress in the etiology of many non-communicable diseases, food-derived antioxidant peptides (FDAPs) are strong candidates for nutraceutical development for disease prevention and management. This paper reviews current evidence on the transepithelial transport and cellular mechanisms of antioxidant activities of FDAPs. Several FDAPs have multiple health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and anti-photoaging activities, in addition to antioxidant properties through which they protect cellular components from oxidative damage. Some FDAPs have been shown to permeate the intestinal epithelium, which could facilitate their bioavailability and physiological bioactivities. Molecular mechanisms of FDAPs include suppression of oxidative stress as evidenced by reduction in intracellular reactive oxygen species production, lipid peroxidation and apoptotic protein activation as well as increase in antioxidant defense mechanisms (enzymatic and non-enzymatic). Since many FDAPs have demonstrated promising antioxidant activity, future investigation should focus on further elucidation of molecular mechanisms and human studies to explore their practical application for the prevention and management of oxidative stress-related diseases.

Malaria is a dangerous disease that contributes to millions of hospital visits and hundreds of thousands of deaths, especially in children residing in sub-Saharan Africa. Although several interventions such as vector control, case detection, and treatment are already in place, there is no substantive reduction in the disease burden. Several studies in the past have reported the emergence of resistant strains of malaria parasites (MPs) and mosquitoes, and poor adherence and inaccessibility to effective antimalarial drugs as the major factors for this persistent menace of malaria infections. Moreover, victory against MP infections for many years has been hampered by an incomplete understanding of the complex nature of malaria pathogenesis. Very recent studies have identified different complex interactions and hematological alterations induced by malaria parasites. However, no studies have hybridized these alterations for a better understanding of Malaria pathogenesis. Hence, this review thoroughly discusses the molecular mechanisms of all reported hematological and biochemical alterations induced by MPs infections. Specifically, the mechanisms in which MP-infection induces anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, dyslipidemia, hypoglycemia, oxidative stress, and liver and kidney malfunctions were presented. The study also discussed how MPs evade the host's immune response and suggested strategies to limit evasion of the host's immune response to combat malaria and its complications.

The global increase in the demand for ripe fruits has induced unhealthy use of toxic chemicals in fruit ripening. One of such chemicals in common use is calcium carbide (CaC

Man is increasingly being faced with many health conditions, including viral infection, some of which increases the risk to cancer. These infectious agents contribute to the large number of persons with cancer and the worrisome number that die from the diseases. A good range of drugs are currently in place for treating patients infected with viruses, however, some of the drugs' effectiveness are limited by the emergence of drug-resistant strains of the viruses, as well as adverse effects of the drugs. Similarly, the inability of many anticancer drugs to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing hosts' normal cells limit their use. This warrants more research for newer drugs, especially from chemicals naturally encrypted in plants with anticancer and antiviral activities. In response to infection with cancer-inducing viruses, plants such as

This study investigated the application of crude methanol extract (CME) of Zapoteca portoricensis root and its methanol (MF) and ethyl acetate (EAF) fractions in managing benign prostatic hyperplas...

The aim of this research was to investigate the phytochemical composition and antimalarial effects of the methanol extract of Erythrina senegalensis leaves (MEES) and its ameliorative effects on so...

To augment orthodox anti-inflammatory drugs, which are scarce in some areas, local dwellers in some parts of Nigeria and Asia rely on herbal products such as Combretum zenkeri Engl. & Diels leaves for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of crude ethanol extract of C. zenkeri leaves (EECZ). EECZ was prepared and subjected to anti-inflammatory activity tests. The ability of EECZ to inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators in rats was used as a measure of its anti-inflammatory property. The inhibitory effects of EECZ on phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity, platelet aggregation and haemolysis of human red blood cells (HRBCs) were determined using standard methods. The phytochemical constituents and acute toxicity profile were also evaluated. EECZ at oral doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg b.w. and at 6 h inhibited egg albumin-induced rat paw oedema by 67.36% and 86.19% respectively. The extract similarly inhibited PLA2 activity causing 58.23% and 60.24% inhibition at concentrations of 400 and 800 μg/ml, respectively. At 100–800 μg/ml, EECZ also significantly inhibited haemolysis of HRBCs. In a concentration-dependent manner, EECZ significantly inhibited CaCl2-induced platelet aggregation. The presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, phenol, saponins, steroids, tannins and glycosides were detected in EECZ. The acute toxicity test showed that EECZ is safe at doses less than 5,000 mg/kg b.w. This study shows that EECZ possess anti-inflammatory activities that could be through the inhibition of PLA2 activity and platelet aggregation, and membrane stabilization.

The cost and worrisome toxicities associated with currently available anti-inflammatory drugs necessitate continuous search for more effective, cheap, and safe anti-inflammatory agents. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of ethanol extract of Hymenodictyon pachyantha stem bark (EEHP). The anti-inflammatory activity of EEHP was evaluated by determining its effect on egg albumin–induced rat paw edema, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity, calcium chloride (CaCl2)–induced platelet aggregatory response, and membrane stabilization. The effect of EEHP on acetic acid–induced writhing responses was used as a model for analgesic property. The presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and phenols was detected in EEHP. There was no sign of toxicity and mortality 24 h post-EEHP administration, suggesting that it is safe up to 5000 mg/kg b.w. EEHP significantly inhibited egg albumin–induced rat paw edema, in a dose-dependent manner and in both early and late stages of inflammation. Similarly, EEHP significantly inhibited PLA2 activity and platelet aggregatory response. EEHP also inhibited hypotonic-induced haemolysis by 23.99, 54.99, and 92.68% at 0.2, 0.6, and 1.0 mg/ml respectively. Similarly, EEHP produced 44.64, 58.04, and 70.54% reduction in the number of writhings induced by acetic acid at 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg p.o. respectively. These results demonstrated that EEHP has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. The results also showed that the mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effect may be by inhibiting PLA2 and aggregation of platelets, and stabilization of lysosomal membrane.

There is a renewed interest on the reliance of food-based bioactive compounds as sources of nutritive factors and health-beneficial chemical compounds. Among these food components, several proteins from foods have been shown to promote health and wellness as seen in proteins such as α/γ-conglutins from the seeds of Lupinus species (Lupin), a genus of leguminous plant that are widely used in traditional medicine for treating chronic diseases. Lupin-derived peptides (LDPs) are increasingly being explored and they have been shown to possess multifunctional health improving properties. This paper discusses the intestinal transport, bioavailability and biological activities of LDPs, focusing on molecular mechanisms of action as reported in in vitro, cell culture, animal and human studies. The potentials of several LDPs to demonstrate multitarget mechanism of regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, chemo- and osteoprotective properties, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities position LDPs as good candidates for nutraceutical development for the prevention and management of medical conditions whose etiology are multifactorial.

Zanthoxylum species (Syn. Fagara species) of the Rutaceae family are widely used in many countries as food and in trado-medicinal practice due to their wide geographical distribution and medicinal properties. Peer reviewed journal articles and ethnobotanical records that reported the traditional knowledge, phytoconstituents, biological activities and toxicological profiles of Z. species with a focus on metabolic and neuronal health were reviewed. It was observed that many of the plant species are used as food ingredients and in treating inflammation, pain, hypertension and brain diseases. Over 500 compounds have been isolated from Z. species, and the biological activities of both the plant extracts and their phytoconstituents, including their mechanisms of action, are discussed. The phytochemicals responsible for the biological activities of some of the species are yet to be identified. Similarly, biological activities of some isolated compounds remain unknown. Taken together, the Z. species extracts and compounds possess promising biological activities and should be further explored as potential sources of new nutraceuticals and drugs.

Over the years, humans have relied on plants as sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds that promote health and wellness. Interestingly, drug discovery has benefitted immensely from the use of bioactive phytochemicals derived from food and medicinal plants. Phytoglycoproteins (PGPs) are plant-derived proteins with sugar moieties covalently linked to amino acid side chains, formed by glycosylation during posttranslational modification of polypeptides. Several studies in the last two decades, including cell culture and animal studies, have documented a variety of health-beneficial effects of PGPs, including hypolipidemic, wound healing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anticancer properties. Despite the prospects, there is a dearth of information on the pharmacokinetics and toxicity of PGPs, including possible induction of immune reactions, and the potential effects of stereospecific variation in PGPs isomers on their physiological functions. Further exploration of the multifunctional glycoproteins will position them as strong candidates for the development of nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Newbouldia laevis (P. Beauv.) Seem. (Family, Bignoniaceae), commonly known as tree of life, is a purple-flowering plant that is widely distributed in many parts of Africa. Different parts of the plant, including the leaves, flower, stems and roots are prevalently used in African traditional medicine for the management of many diseases and conditions like diabetes, hypertension, skin diseases, ulcer, tumors, pains, infectious diseases, inflammation, dysentery, sickle cell disease and impotency. This review discusses the trado-medical uses, chemical constituents, and biological activities of N. laevis. Based on information generated from scientific investigations deposited in PubMed and SCOPUS, the chemical constituents of the plant include glycosides, anthraquinolones, volatile oils, tannins, steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids and sterols. Extracts different parts of the plant and compounds isolated from them have been reported to have several health-promoting potentials such as antioxidant, antimalarial, trypanocidal, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-arthritic, anti-thrombotic, cytoprotective, anti-hypertensive, central nervous system modulatory, male reproduction enhancing and oxytocic properties. These scientific investigations have led credence to the ethnobotanical uses of the plant in folkloric practice. In addition, the presence of phytochemical constituents in the plant might be responsible for the wide biological potentials.

The existence of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), characterized by elevation in markers of oxidative stress/lipid peroxidation (8-hydroxyguanosine, malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxynonenal) and reduction in antioxidant status (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione) is scientifically documented. We hypothesize that a good treatment regimen for BPH should return the pro-oxidant/antioxidant status to normal; hence, pro-oxidant/antioxidant status is an indirect indicator of treatment response. In this study, the effect of crude methanol extract (CME) of Zapoteca portoricensis root and its methanol (MF) and ethyl acetate (EAF) fractions on the pro-oxidant/antioxidant status of experimentally-induced BPH was investigated. Forty-five Wistar albino rats (7 weeks, 180-200 g) used in this study were divided into nine groups (n = 5). Group 1 served as normal control. BPH was induced in groups 2-9 by daily subcutaneous administration of dihydrotestosterone (400 μg/ml) and estradiol (80 μg/ml) for 28 days. Group 2 served as BPH-control (was left untreated) while group 3 received dutesteride (Avodart®). Groups 4 and 5, 6 and 7, and 8 and 9 received, by gavage 200 and 400 mg/kg/d b.w. of CME, 200 and 400 mg/kg/d b.w. of MF, and 200 and 400 mg/kg/d b.w. of EAF, respectively for 14 days. There were increased prostatic specific (PSA) and malondialdehyde but reduced antioxidant status in BPH-control relative to normal control. At 400 mg/kg/d b.w, CME, MF and EAF decreased prostatic specific antigen by 55.91%, 57.54% and 56.75%, respectively comparable to 58.80% by dutesteride. In addition, the results of histological assessment of prostate tissues of the experimental rats fed extracts demonstrate an improved prostate status. The extracts returned the pro-oxidant/antioxidant status modified by BPH to normal. These findings may justify the plant’s folkloric use and suggest that extracts can be exploited further as potential source of entities for managing BPH.

Oxidative stress has been implicated in many chronic diseases and the use of natural antioxidants has been suggested to be beneficial in the prevention and management of some chronic diseases. Deep Root® herbal mixture (DRHM) is a branded Nigerian polyherbal drug composed of Cymbopogon citratus (17%), Carica papaya leaves (16%), Magnifera indica bark (15%), Moringa oleifera leaves (14%), Citrus limonia (12%), Psidium guajava (11%), Zingiber officinale root (9%) and Allium sativium (6%). Considering the bioactivities of the individual plant components in literature and the indications for managing chronic diseases, the potential of modulating hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress in rats by DRHM was assessed. Thirty healthy male Wistar rats used for this study were divided into six groups of five rats each with group 1 serving as normal control - was neither intoxicated nor treated with any drug. Groups 2-6 were intoxicated (3 ml/kg b.w of 5% v/v of H2O2, i.p). Group 2 served as H2O2 control, groups 3-5 received 1, 2 and 3 ml/kg/d b.w. p.o of DRHM, respectively while group 6 was given silymarin (100 mg/kg/d. b.w. p.o) for 14 days. The hematological, liver, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status of H2O2-intoxicated rats were evaluated. H2O2 elevated aspartate and alanine aminotransferases activities, and malondialdehyde and total bilirubin levels (p < 0.05). Conversely, H2O2 decreased superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities, and antioxidant vitamins and reduced glutathione levels, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, red blood cell, white blood cell and platelet counts (p < 0.05). However, in a dose-dependent manner, DRHM reversed the hematological status and attenuated oxidative damage to hepatic tissues likely by enhancing antioxidant defense system. This effect may be attributed to the phytoconstituents detected in DRHM. The polyherbal drug was shown to be tolerable up to 10 ml/kg. b.w. dose.

The bioactive compounds in methanol extract of Xylopia aethiopica fruits were determined using a combination of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The compound identification was based on the molecular structure, molecular mass and calculated fragments. Interpretation on mass spectrum of GC-MS analyzer (Hewlett Packard GC-MS system) was done using the database of National Institute Standard and Technology (NIST). The results showed different peaks representing the presence of about 58 bioactive compounds which are mainly carboxylic acids, esters, phenolic compounds and fatty acids. The most abundant bioactive compounds detected were 2,4,6-octatriene (2.74%), cyclohexanemethanol (2.57%), kaurene (3.59%), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (5.63%), 1,6-cyclodecadiene (10.81%), terpineol (3.22%), cyclohexene (3.32%), copaene (3.04%), 1,6-cyclodecadiene (5.53%), 1-hexadecyne (5.63%) and silane (4.63%). The presence of these bioactive components suggests that the extract is of great pharmaceutical value.

Context: The resistance of Plasmodium species to many available antimalarials calls for a continuous search for newer antimalarial agents. One possible source of new antimalarials is from natural sources such as Fagara zanthoxyloides Lam (Rutaceae), a medicinal plant used traditionally for treating malaria in South-Eastern Nigeria, Uganda and Asia. Objectives: To investigate the application of methanol extracts of F. zanthoxyloides in combating malaria infection and its associated disorders. Materials and methods: Methanol extracts of F. zanthoxyloides leaves (MEFZ) were evaluated for in vivo antimalarial activity. MEFZ at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg/d were administered orally for 4 consecutive days (days 0–4) to P. berghei-infected mice. The possible ameliorative effects of MEFZ on malaria-associated organ malfunctions were also assessed. Results: At 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg b.w., respectively, MEFZ produced 82.37% and 68.39%, 84.84%, and 90.75%, 95.95% and 92.67% chemosuppression and inhibition of P. berghei, respectively, comparable to 98.67% and 97.29% by combisunate, a standard antimalarial. The IC50 of MEFZ was estimated to be 235.23 mg/kg b.w. Similarly, treatment of parasitized mice with MEFZ significantly restored the malaria-modified haematological and biochemical status of the parasitized-MEFZ-treated mice compared with parasitized-untreated mice. MEFZ was tolerable up to 5000 mg/kg b.w dose; hence, the LD50 is above 5000 mg/kg b.w. Discussion and conclusions: The results of this curative assay demonstrated that MEFZ has antimalarial effects and normalized haematological and biochemical aberrations generated by malaria. The isolation of the antimalarial principles in MEFZ is warranted; they could be lead molecules for the development of new antimalarials.

Mineral contents and amino acid and fatty acid profiles of Xylopia aethiopica fruits from Enugu State, Nigeria were evaluated in this study. The amino acid and fatty acid profiles, phytochemical, proximate, mineral, anti-nutrient and vitamin contents of X. aethiopica fruits were determined using standard methods. The proximate, vitamins, phytochemical, anti-nutrient of both the crude and methanol extract were determined while the mineral and amino acid profile were determined in the crude fruit powder while fatty acid profile was determined in the oil extract of the fruits. Results show that the predominant amino acids present include proline, alanine, norleucine, isoleucine, glycine, threonine, cysteine, methionine, and tryptophan. Also, the most abundant fatty acids include arachidonic acid, dihomoÏ’-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, caproic acid, linoleic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid and myristic acid. The mineral contents of X. aethiopica fruits detected in high amount were calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium. Sodium, zinc and manganese were detected in lower amounts. However, lead, silicon, nickel and chromium were not detected. The result of the proximate analysis shows moisture, total protein, crude ash, total fat, crude fibre, and carbohydrate contents. Anthraquinone was not detected in both crude and methanol extract of the fruit. The concentration of flavonoids, steroids, anthocyanin and terpenoids were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in crude sample when compared with methanol extract. The levels of carotenoid and glycosides were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the methanol extract when compared with crude sample. Vitamins B1, B3, B6, B9, B12, C and E levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in crude extract when compared with methanol extract. However, vitamin A content was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in methanol extract when compared with crude extract. Results obtained showed that X. aethiopica fruits are rich in nutrients and that methanol extraction decreased the anti-nutrient contents of the fruits thereby increasing the bioavailability of the nutritive factors. However, the quantities of some of the nutritive factors were reduced after extraction

Background & objectives: The alarming failure in malaria treatment using conventional drugs calls for urgent search of alternatives; one of which is to exploit natural products such as plants. This study evaluated the effects of three selected commercial herbal preparations on albino mice infected with Plasmodium berghei NK65, a lethal strain of rodent malaria. Methods: This study was conducted in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka between February and September 2017. A total of 30 adult albino mice were randomized into six groups of five mice each. Group 1 served as normal control. Mice in Groups 2-6 were parasitized with P. berghei. Group 2 mice were untreated while mice in Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 were treated with 20 mg/kg body weight of artesunate; and 5 ml/kg body weight of the seleceted commercial herbal preparations designated as HA, HB and HC, respectively. The percent malaria parasitaemia, haematological parameters, lipid profile, liver function markers, antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation index were evaluated using standard protocol. Results: It was observed that mice in Group 2 had significantly higher percentage of malaria parasitaemia when compared to mice in parasitized and treated groups. Also, haematological dysfunctions, dyslipidaemia, oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity seen in parasitized and untreated mice were restored in parasitized and artesunate- and herbal preparations-treated mice. Interpretation & conclusion: Findings from the present study revealed that oxidative stress, characterized by low antioxidant status and high lipid peroxidation, contributes to complications in malaria. The results also indicate that the studied commercial herbal preparations possess good antimalarial and ameliorative effects on malaria-induced haematological, lipid, antioxidant and liver aberrations in mice. The acute toxicity profiles of the commercial herbal preparations suggested that they are tolerable and safe at the doses administered.