Showing papers in "International Journal of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in 2013"

The potentials of medicinal plant extracts as bio -antimicrobials in aquaculture

Abstract: Fish is one of the cheapest and promising sources of animal protein; people can easily digest 93.2% and 93.7% of fish protein and fat, respectively. Stressors including overcrowding, high or sudden changes of temperature, handling, low dissolved oxygen, poor nutritional status and fungal or parasitic damage of the epidermis, contribut e to physiological changes and heighten susceptibility to infection. The uncontrolled and repeated use of antibiotics to treat bacterial infe c- tions has in some cases led to the development of antibiotic -resistant pathogens. For fish disease control, immunostimulants and adjuvants used in fish vaccines are able to act as an alternative to antimicrobial agents like antib i- otics used in fish culture. Medicinal plants as immunostimulants can be used not only against diseases but also as growth promoters, stress resistance boosters and preventatives of infections. Plants are rich in a wide variety of secondary m e- tabolites of phytochemical constituents such as tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponin, glycosides, phenolics, polysacch a- rides, proteoglycans, polysacchi rides and volatiles oils which act against different diseases. Studies showed that the in- corporation of medicinal plants in the diets of fish stimulated the immune system of fish and enhanced their disease r e- sistance properties. In the present article, the use of some medicinal plants as immunostimulants or phyto -antibacterial agents either injection or dietary administration against fish diseases were discussed .

Aloe vera L. processing and products: a review.

Abstract: Use of Aloe vera in nutritional, pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations draw attention for gener ation of scientific information. Looking to the importance of biologically active components possessed by the leaves of the Aloe vera plant and its wide spread use, it has become imperative that, the leaf should be pr ocessed with the aim of retaining essential bioactive components. In this review paper, different processing aspects like harvesting, handling , transporta- tion, Aloe vera gel expulsion, gel extraction and storage of gel were critically described from different references. Diffe r- ent product prepared from Aloe vera whole leaf and gel like food products Aloe juice, Aloe health drink, Aloe desert, et c were reviewed. Aloe vera processing methods for gel expulsion by splitting of leaf, roller method, crushing of whole leaf, hand filleting methods and stabilization are described with various references. Present processing techniques aims at pr o- ducing best quality aloe products but end aloe products contain very little or virtually no active ingredients. Hence, a p- propriate processing techniques should be employed during processing in order to extend the use of Aloe vera gel.

Molecular characterization of giloe (Tinospora cordifolia Willd. Miers ex Hook. F. and Thoms.) accessions using start codon targeted (SCoT) markers.

Abstract: Twenty one accessions collected from the wild habitats of the two states (Delhi and Uttar Pradesh) of the India were studied using Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) markers Total thirty-five SCoT primers were screened to study the diversity, out of which nineteen primers could amplify reproducible bands These primers were selected for molecular characterization of twenty-one giloe accessions, which produced a total of 102 bands (53 bands per primer), of which 90 (8702%) were polymorphic The resolving power (Rp) of the SCoT primers ranged from 095 (SCoT7) to 514 (SCoT 31) with an average of 26 per primer Polymorphism information content (PIC) ranged from 019 (SCoT -13 and SCoT15) to 049 (SCoT -13 and SCoT -22) with an average of value of 035 per primer Estimation of Jaccard’s coefficient of genetic similarity among Giloe accessions was ranging from 10 (between IC-281960 and IC-281963) to 068 (between IC 281966 and IC-281959) Such a range in genetic similarity suggests that the Giloe accessions were genetically diverse The UPGMA cluster analysis revealed two distinct sub-clusters in the dendrogram In cluster1 eight accessions were grouping together whereas in cluster2 thirteen accessions were grouped The principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) was carried out with 102 amplicons and first 3 axes explained 8756% (axis17606%, axis2-753% and axis3396%) of total variation The genetic diversity explained by gene targeted markers shows that SCoT marker can be very effective for characterization of genetic diversity in medicinal plant like giloe

Traditional uses of wild medicinal plants and their management practices in Nepal-A study in Makawanpur district.

Abstract: Nepal is an important source of wild medicinal plants in the world. Nepalese especially rural people have a long tradition of folk practices for utilization of medicinal plants for various purposes. This paper examines the traditio n- al uses and management practices of such plants in the locality. Therefore, a case study was conducted during March - April 2012 in Daman Village Development Committee (VDC) of Makawanpur district in Nepal. Both social science and natural science methods such as questionnaires, semi -structured interviews, participatory rural appraisal, focus group discussion and plants specimens' collection and identification were applied to collect data from the field. The results of study shows that total 76 species of medi cinal plants were mentioned which used local people for treatments of various physical ailments in the study area. Among the listed plants Swertia chirayita, Astilbe rivularis, Bergenia ciliata, Acorus calamus, Nardostachys grandiflora, Valeriana jatamansiiwere respectively the most preferred and frequently used m e- dicinal species in the locality. Results also shows that the management practices of medicinal plants are being effectively applied in the study area even though there are some problems like illegal collection and overharvesting. The rules are effective because the users' community takes part in defining the rules and the users have the full authority to manage and collect the forest products from the respective community forest. Therefore, it ind icates that the local people have a vast knowledge on wild medicinal plants including their traditional uses and management which helps to preserves the indigenous knowledge as well as conserves the biodiversity.

Composition and Bioactivity of the Essential Oil of Anethum graveolens L. from Tajikistan

Abstract: The essential oil of Anethum graveolensL. was obtained from the aerial parts by hydrodistillation. Its comp o- sition was analyzed by high-resolution gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thirteen components were identified representing 99.6% of the total oil composition. The major components were carvone (51.7%), trans- dihydrocarvone (14.7%), dill ether (13.2%), α-phellandrene (8.1%) and limonene (6.9%). The cytotoxicity of the oil was tested against HeLa, Caco-2 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines: IC50 values were 93 μg/mL for HeLa, 216 μg/mL for Caco-2, and 67 μg/mL for MCF-7 cell lines. Anethum graveolensessential oil was active in the brine shrimp lethality test (LC 50 = 15.9 ± 2.3 μg/mL), but showed only marginal antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli (MIC = 625 μg/mL). In addition, the ethnopharmacological uses of Anethum graveolensfrom difference geographical locations have been su m- marized.

Antimicrobial activity of the leaves of three species of Nigerian Pterocarpus (Jacq.)

Abstract: This study investigated the antimicrobial activity of the ethano lic extracts of freshly expanded and older leaves of Pterocarpus soyauxii, P. santalinoides and P. osun against some human pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhii, Shigella flexneri, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniaand Candida albicans). The in vitro antimicrobial activity was performed using the Agar well diffusion method in nutrient agar, maconkey agar, blood agar and sabround dextrose agar. The ethanolic extracts of the samples showed moderate to high activity against all the tested pathogens. The inhibition zone ranged from 3.00 mm to 25 mm. Generally, the freshly e xpanded leaves (3.00 mm to 18 mm) tend to have higher antimicrobial activity when compared to that of older leaves (4.33 mm to 14.50 mm). P. osun leaves showed more antimicrobial activity on the test pathogen s, when compared with those of the leaves of the other species. The con- centration of the extract also affected the ability of the extract to inhibit the growth of the pathogen s. The higher the con- centration of the extract, the higher the rate of inhibition of the pathogen s. The minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) ranged from 0.25 to 11.00 mg/ml. The result obtained indicates that the leaves of the plants have antimicrobial activity against the human pathogenic microorganism tested and can be exploited as alternative antimicrobial drug use for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by these pathogens .

A review on biological activities and conservation of endangered medicinal herb Nardostachys jatamansi.

Abstract: Nardostachys jatamansiDC also known as Indian Spikenard or Indian Valerian, is a valued medicinal plant of family Valerianaceae. This rhizome bearing plant is native of the Himalayas of India and Nepal and preferably found from 2200 m to 5000 m asl in random forms. The extract of rhizome is widely used in the formulation of traditional Ayurvedic medicines as well as modern herbal preparations for curing several ailments. In some parts of their range o w- ing to overharvest for medicinal use and trade, habitat degradation and other biotic interferences lead s plant into threat category. In India the observed population of jatamansi declines of 75 -80% and classified as Endangered in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Himachal Pradesh and Critically Endangered in Uttarakhand. Realizing the high level of threat CITES has notified N. jatamansi for its schedule care to ensure the conservation. Hence, emphasis should be given on proper conservation and apply biotechnological tools for sustainable use which in turn help to save it from extinction. In view of immense importance in the present review an attempt has been made to focus on the distribution, medicinal value and conservation aspects of this valuable plant .

The Effects of Water Deficit and Zeolite Application on Growth Traits and Oil Yield of Medicinal Peppermint (Mentha piperita L)

Abstract: In order to study the effect of different rates of zeolite and water deficit in Peppermint (Mentha piperita L), an experiment was conducted in factorial based on a ra ndomized complete block design with three replications in inst itute of agriculture research in university of Zabol, Iran. Factors were considered as three levels of drought stress (70%fc, 50%fc, 30%fc) and four levels of zeolite (0, 1.5, 2, 2.5 g/1kgsoil). Analyze of variance showed that all of growth parameters and essential oil yield were affected by drought stress and zeolite application. Drought stress motivated a significant redu c- tion in all growth parameter except oil percentage. At mainly zeolite application increased the mean of all traits. Results for interaction effects showed that zeolite application in drought stress increased the means of all traits. Analysis of va r- iance for essential yield revealed that the highest oil yield belonged to drought stress 50%fc and 2.5gr zeolite. It seems that zeolite appli cation in dry lands are exposed to drought stress be helpful for growth parameters and oil yield i m- provement and prevention of decreased oil yield.

Screening of α-Glucosidase inhibitory activity of some Indonesian medicinal plants

Abstract: The aim of this research was to evaluate the inhibitory activity of α-glucosidase in 55 medicinal plants used as antidiabetic agent in Indonesia. Plants materials were extracted using ethanol, and then concentrated under reduce pre s- sure. Inhibitory activity o f α-glucosidase was evaluated by measuring the absorbance with spectrophotometry. Acarbose used as a positive control. The higgest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity demonstrated by Terminallia catappa L. fruit extract, followed by Phaseolus vulgaris L. seed extract, Ceiba petandra L. bark extract and Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq seed extract. The result of phytochemical screening showed that the extracts with strong α--glucosidae inhibitory activity contain glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, and tannins. The higgest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity demo n- strated by fruit of T. catappa with IC50 of 3.02 α-g/ml.

Evaluation of the chemical composition of Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schum and Thonn.) Taub. accessions from Cross River State, Nigeria.

Abstract: Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schum. and Thonn.)plays vital roles in home remedies. It is also cherished as a spice in many Nigerian dishes. However, knowledge on its bioactive components is highly inadequate. In this study , dry pods of twenty accessions of T. tetraptera, collected from six local government areas in Cross River State, Nigeria, were eva l- uated for phytochemical, proximate, vitamin, and mineral compositions. Appreciable concentrations of various nutrients namely, ash (2.86 to 4.81%), fiber (2.79 to 4.81%), fat (11.79 to 21.71%), protein (5.48 to 7.84%) and carbohydrate (51.17 to 66.29%) were obtained which differed significantly (P<0.01) among the accessions. Mean vitamin composition ranged from 1.01mg/100g in vitamin C to 3.34% in vitamin A while mineral composition ranged from 0.80mg/100g in Zinc to 250.73 mg/100g in Potassium. Lower values were obtained for tannin (0.24 to 0.64%), sterol (0.04 to 0.14%), phenol (0.05 to 0.12%) and saponin (0.44 to 0.8%). The v alues obtained for hydrogen cyanide (3.64 to 5.25%), alkaloid (1.73 to 2.76%) and flavonoid (1.63 to 3.84%) were appreciably high with accessions AKA1, AKA2, AKP3, AKP7, AKP10, ODU1 and ODU2 having the best combinations. The relative abundance of many biologically important com- pounds in this plant thus justifies the numerous roles it plays in traditional medicine .

Medicinal plants used in indigenous therapy by people of Madyan Valley in district Swat, Pakistan

Abstract: Medicinal plants are small natural factories that produced valuable secondary metabolites which can be used for the treatment of various ailments The present study was carried out to investigate the Ethnobotanical uses of medici- nal plants by the locals of Madyan valley, District Swat During the studies 100 plants of the area were found to be di u- retic, tonic, astringent and carminative, purgative, laxative, stimulant, narcotic, expectorant, anthel mintic, emetic, demul- cent, antipyretic, antiseptic, sedative, aphrodisiac, diaphoretic, emollient, anticancer, antispasmodic, aromatic Some plants are specially used for respiratory diseases, stomach diseases, fever, skin diseases, diarrhea, dysentery, he art diseas- es, jaundice, toothache, kidney diseases, hypertension, rheumatism and epilepsy

Drying effect on yield and antimicrobial activity of essential oils

Abstract: The present paper highlights the drying effect on yield and activity of some medicinal and aromatic plants. For this purpose we have chosen nine plants, four trees and five herbs. Each plant species represents one of the great aromatic families in Mediterranean. Drying was carried out at the dark at r oom temperature. Essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation, where, we have noticed a significant decrease in yield of essential oil after drying in all plants. This l oss was in strong relation with moisture decrease by drying. Drying effect on anti microbial activity of essential oils has been evaluated by agar disk diffusion method. We have found a significant decrease in antimicrobial activity among all active essential oils after drying. Finally, we have concluded that drying significantly affects the essential oil quantity and qual i- ty.

The composition and anti-microbial activity of the essential oil from Eremanthus erythropappus (DC) Macleish (Candeia)

Abstract: In the present study the chemical compositions of the e ssential oils from the fresh and dried leaves, stem and flowers of Candeia (Eremanthus erythropappus(DC) MacLeish) have been determined The essential oils were extracted by steam distillation using a Clevenger apparatus The oils were analyzed by direct injection of the oils into a gas chr o- matograph coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and by GC-MS analysis of the solid phase micro -extract of the headspace above the oils (HS-SPME) The headspaces above the in natura plant materials were also extracted a nd ana- lyzed by GC-MS The use of these three techniques increased the number of compounds identified and permitted the observation of the changes that occur in the essential oil during the process of drying the plant material The leaves and flowers of Candeia were observed be a good source of cis-β-caryophyllene The essential oils were tested for their pote n- tial to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Staphylococcus aureus(ATCC 25923) bacteria, as well as Cryptococcus neoformans(ATCC 28967), Cryptococcus gattii (ATCC32608), Candida albicans (ATCC18804), Can- dida glabrata (ATCC 90030), Candida krusei (ATCC 20298), Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb 18), Aspergillus fumigatus (ATCC 16913) and Trichophyton rubrum(ATCC 28189) fungi No significant activity was observed against these species

Picrosides content in the rhizomes of Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. traded for herbal drugs in the markets of North India

Abstract: May 2013.Abstract: Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex. Benth (Kutki) is an important medicinal plant used in various herbal drug formu-lations possessing hepatoprotective activity. Herbal drug industries purchase the raw plant material (dried rhizomes) of P.kurroa from the markets by judging the quality mainly on the basis of physical appearance of the rhizomes rather thanthe contents of active constituents. This study assessed the current status of trade and quality of P. kurroa plant materialbeing sold in major herbal drug markets of north India (Delhi, Amritsar, Manali) on the basis of major chemical constitu-ents i.e. P-I (Picroside-I) and P-II (Picroside-II) by using Reverse Phase HPLC (High Pressure Liquid Chromatography).The P. kurroa rhizomes sold in the Amritsar market contained highest picrosides content (10.9%) whereas sample fromChina (sold in Delhi market) showed the least amount of picrosides (2.8%). Various herbal drug formulations, containingP. kurroa as one of the constituents, were also analysed for picrosides content. The study highlights the importance ofquality of raw material used in the preparation of herbal drug formulations.Keywords: Picrorhiza kurroa; Picroside-I; Picroside-II; HPLC; Herbal Drug Formulations.

Elemental, amino acid and phytochemical constituents of fruits of three different species of eggplant.

Abstract: The elemental (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc) , amino acid (cystine, leucine, histidine, arginine, proline, alanine, lysine, methione, phenylalanine, threonine, and glycine ),and phytochemical constituents ( flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, cyanogenic glycosides, steroids, phytosterols and phlobatannins) of fruits of three different species viz., Solanum melongena, Solanum aethiopicum and Solanum macrocarpon of eggplant were studied using standard methods. The investiaged fruits contained appreciable amounts of the compounds investigated. The importance of these compounds lies in the body when these fruits are consumed. The present study has shown elemental, amino acid and phytochemical constituents of fruits of three different species of eggplant.

Pharmaco-toxicological study of Opuntia ficus indica L. aqueous extract in experimental animals.

Abstract: Opuntia ficus indica is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and dermal burns The aim of present study was to analyze and compare the effects caused by the Opuntia ficus indica aqueous extract on serum and lipid parameters in white male rabbits (initial mean weight 195 kg) Rabbits were divided into two groups (n=6), the first group represented the control group, fed with standard diet; the second group was fed with the control diet supplemented orally with OAE (2ml/kg), once a day, 7 days per week, for 3 months Food and water were provided ad-libitum The Rabbits body weights were measured every week Organ weights were determined at the end of treatment Blood samples were subject to the determination of fasting blood glucose, serum lipid profile, serum protein and albumin, creatinine and urea The results showed that there was a significant difference in the body weight of the two groups The relative weights in the OAE group of pancreas and kidneys were similar to those of the control, while, weights of liver were lower than those in the control group Biochemical analysis showed that cholesterol (CHOL) and triglycerides (TG) were significantly decreased in blood plasma re spectively in OAE group Glucose level (GLU) was significantly lower in OAE group; the rest of the parameters (Albumine, Total proteins, Creatinine, Urea) were not significantly affected However, these variations do not show any biological toxicity

Effect of Manure and Bio-fertilizers on Growth, Yield, Silymarin content, and protein expression profile of Silybum marianum

Abstract: The impact of the bio-fertilizer (humic acid, EM and yeast), organic fertilizer (cattle and chicken residues) and a combination of both on the growth and yield of Silybum marianum were studied. Plant height, number of branches, number of roots, root length and dry matter accumulation in plant organs significantly increased with the application of bio-fertilizer in combination with organic one. Both bio -fertilizers, organic fertilizer significantly affected the dry weight of herbs and root of Silybum marianumas compared with the control treatments. The plants treated with 10m 3 cattle ma- nure /fed plus EM or 10 m 3 Chicken manure showed significantly higher silymarin content in the second season as com- pared with the other bio , manure fertilization and control treatments . SDS-PAGE analysis of total cellular proteins was used for detecting changes in gene expression on dry seeds. The data showed no variation in protein pattern in terms of number of bands and their relative intensities among all the studied treatments .

Phytodiversity along an altitudinal gradient in Dudhatoli forest of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India.

Abstract: The present study was undertaken to enumerate the diversity of higher plants (Angiosperms and Gymn o- sperms) including important medicinal plants in biodiversity rich moist temperate Dudhatoli forest of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India We have recorded a total of 268 plant species belonging to 182 genera and 69 families Of these, Gymnosperms were represented by 6 species, 6 genera and 3 families only Dicotyledons were represented by 243 spe- cies, 160 genera and 60 families , whereas monocotyledons by 19 species, 16 genera and 6 families In the study area 226 species had common occurrence, whereas rest 42 species were uncommon A total of 20, 7, 159, 53 and 29 species of climbers, grasses, herbs, shrubs and trees respectively were recorded from the study area

Nutritional composition of some Piper nigrum (L.) accessions from Nigeria

Abstract: Proximate, mineral, vitamins and phytochemical compositions of nine accessions of Piper nigrum leaves and fruits were investigated in order to assess their nutritional value. The result showed that all the nutritional traits of the leaves and fruits of these accessions varied significantly (P<0.01). the result of the proximate composition showed that the leaves contained protein (17.46 -20.30%), ash (10.30-12.94%), carbohydrate (42,32-46.17%), fat (3.59-4.04%), fibre (10.64-13.62%) and energy (273.68-295.67 kcal/100g) while the fruits contained protein (8.44 -9.18%), carbohydrate (51.37-53.74%), fate (12.77-15.05%), fibre (5.13.5.50% and energy (361.65 -384.18 kcal/100g). Elemental analysis r e- vealed that the calcium and magnesium content of the accession was high while zinc and iron was moderate. These a c- cessions of Piper nigrum were high in vitamin C but had low levels of thiamine, riboflavin and niacin while it was o b- served that higher phytochemicals occurred in the fruits than in the leaves. The result obtained in this study indicates that the leaves and fruits of Piper nigrum contain nutrients and mineral elements that determine their nutritional value. The presence of bioactive compounds may justify their medicinal value and confirm its nutritive importance for body health .

Evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of selected Indian medicinal plants.

Abstract: The study examine the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of the ethanolic and aqueous leaf extracts of ten selected Indian medicinal plants namely, Psidium guajava, Mangifera indica, Polyalthia longifolia, Allium cepa, Phyllanthus amarus, Thespesia populnea, Ricinus communis, Physalis angulata, Ixora coccinea, and Vinca rosea using 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay, total phenol content (TPC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) methods. In DPPH scavenging assay, the highest radical scavenging effect was found in ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava (94.48±0.07) and the least in ethanolic extract of Physalis angulata (9.58±0.65). The TPC and FRAP value followed similar trend with highest found in Ixora coccinea ethanolic extract (427.25±0.86), (554.93±2.37) and lowest in Vinca rosea aqueous extract (41.04±1.58) and Physalis angulata ethanolic extract (111.94±6.34) respectively. All the plant extracts showed strong scavenging and reducing power in a dose dependent manner. From the antioxidant screening, five plant extracts with highest activity were selected for antibacterial study. The plant extracts were tested against three pathogenic bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila (MTCC 1739), Micrococcus luteus (MTCC 106) and Vibrio vulnificus (MTCC 1145) individually and in combination, and all the extracts exhibited varying level of antibacterial activity. Therefore based on the results obtained from the study the plant materials tested may act as an antioxidant agent for effective protection from free radicals and potential utilization in animal feed as

Wild edible plants used by Guiziga people of far north region of Cameroon.

Abstract: Developing countries abounded in various resources of significant importance for rural populations. The o b- jective of this work is to describe and analyze the use of wild edible plants of Guiziga people. For this, 180 peasants were interviewed to determine the use frequencies of wild e dible plants. Wild edible plants are identified by their scientific and vernacular names, parts used and modes of preparation and consumption. The Guiziga people use 24 plants as sources of food which are consumed in 37 different forms. Four species pr oducing six forms of food are included here for the first time among Guiziga people. However, only a few wild edible plants are used frequently while others are occasionally or not at all. An intercultural comparison between Guiziga and four territorial neighbors reveals that it exists a great simila r- ity between Guiziga people and their neighbors on wild edible plants despite the fact that they have a different cultural basis. The close cultural habit would significantly affect Guiziga people ethnobotany. This article is a first contribution t o an understanding of ethnobotany of Guiziga people and to a comparison of inter -ethnic relations concerning their r e- sources in wild edible plants .

Ethanomedicinal uses of certain locally available plants of Bandipora district of Jammu & Kashmir, India.

Abstract: Throughout the globe, the traditional knowledge system has gained prime importance in context with conse r- vation, sustainable development and search for new utilization patterns of plant resources. In the present work an attempt has been made to study the traditional knowledge of certain locally available plants being used for medicinal purposes in district Bandipora of Jammu and Kashmir. The district has a rich flora of medicinal plants with diverse biological prope r- ties. The people of the region have always used the medicinal plants for curing various human and liv estock ailments and are still dependent on them for f ood, shelter, health, medicines, fodder and various cultural purpo ses. Ethnomedicinal data was collected by means of questionnaire method, interviews and discussions with local knowledgeable persons, herbal healers called "Bhoris", tribals ( Gujjars and Bakkerwals) and by direct observation during field trips. As a result of this study, conducted during March 2011 to September 2011, a total of 42 plant species belonging to 28 different fam i- lies were found to be used as effective remedies by the local people to cure various ailments afflic ting humans as well as their domestic animals. Today, many medicinal plants are on the verge extinction not only because of certain natural fa c- tors but also due to a wide range of anthropogenic factors. However, the efforts l ike present study must be promoted more and more so as to serve as a source for sustainable utilization as well as conservation of fast eroding plants of the region.

The effect of water stress (drought) on the proximate composition of the leaves of Ocimum gratissimum (L) and Gongronema latifolium (Benth).

Abstract: The present paper highlights the effect of water stress (drought) on the proximate composition of the leaves of Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolium. Cultivated O. gratissimum and G. latifolium plants grown in plastic planting buckets were subjected to mild water stress by irrigating each planning bucket with 500 ml of water once in a week. In the control treatment, each bucket was supplied with 750 ml of water three times a week. Treatment started two months after seedling emergence. The leaves of the plants were harvested for analysis one month from the commencement of treatment. The leaf was used for analysis since it is the part most eaten. The results obtained showed that water stress significantly (p< 0.05) decreased carbohydrate, moisture content, dry matter and crude fat content of the leaves of the two plants and the calorific value of the leaves of G. latifolium. On the other hand, there was significant increase (p < 0.05) in the ash, crude protein and crude fibre content of the leaves of the plants studied as a result of water stress. The calorific value of the leaves of O. gratissimum was not affected by water stress. The results obtained were discussed in line with the current literatures.

In vitro antileishmanial, antitumor, cytotoxic activities and phyto-chemical analysis of Citrullus colocynthis fruit extract and its fractions.

Abstract: Citrullus colocynthis fruits have been widely used in folk medicine for its medicinal properties (Hartwell 1971). In the present study the crude methanolic fruit extract (CME) and its fractions: chloroform fraction (CCF), acetone fraction (ACF) and aqueous fraction (AQF). This plant species investigated for antileishmanial, antitumor, cytotoxic a c- tivities and phytochemical analysis. The extract and its fractions were tested against L.major parasites. The result of CME showed significant antileishmanial activity with IC 50 value 11.99 µg/ml and CCF result showed moderate activity with IC50 value 18.60 µg/ml comparatively with standard drug Amphotericin B. AQF showed lowest activity with value IC50 >100 µg/ml. On the other hand CME showed significant potato disc antitumor activity with IC 50 value <1. The re- sults of CME and ACF showed maximum brain shrimp cytotoxic activity with ED50 values 0.56 µg/ml. The Phytochemi- cal analysis of CME and its fractions showed the presence of Alkaloid, Flavonoids, Saponins, Phenols, and Diterpenes. The extract and its fractions were also appreciating for further biological studies in future .

Antimicrobial activity of two diazotropic cyanobacteria against Staphylococcus aureus.

Abstract: Cyanobacteria are being recognized as a potent source of antibiotic with antimic robial activities during the last two decades In this study freshwater algae two Anabaena species were tested for its antimicrobial activity with the agar well diffusion method against gram positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus In vitro study of antiba cterial activity of different organic extracts of Anabaena sp is done The activity was assessed by using aqueous, acetone, methanol and hexane extracts These extracts showed specific activity in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus The methanolic extract showed largest zone of inhibition compared to other extracts Our results indicate that these species has a significant capacity for being used as potent natural antibiotics

Physico-chemical properties of Hyptis suaveolens essential oil

Abstract: This work has reported the results of analyzes performed by GC/MS on essential oils extracted from leaves of H. suaveolens (Lamiaceae) collected in seven localities of Benin and their physico-chemical properties (density, refractive index, acid index, rotatoty power) determined by appropriate methods. The volatile extracts analyzed were characterized by the presence of different compounds, marked by significant quantitative variations. Sabinene (7.3- 31.3%), eucalyptol (14.0-24.6%), β-caryophyllene (6.9-12.7%), 1,8-cineole (11.5%), β-phellandrene (10.2%), terpinolene (8.7-9.6%), fenchone (4.1-8.1%), p-mentha-2 (7), 8-diene (7.9%), bicyclogermacrene (4.7-7.5%), β-pinene (4.9-7.4%), (Z)-β-ocimene (6.9%) and terpinen-4-ol (5.4-5.9%) were the predominant compounds of essential oils analyzed. The values of the physico-chemical factors, in partcular those of the rotatory power have likewise exhibited profound differences according to the harvest area of the plant material.

Essential oil from Bay leaves in India and Nepal: an analysis for quality oriented value chain development.

Abstract: Cinnamomum tamalaNees & Eberm., commonly known as bay leaf is a high value medicinal and aromatic plant (MAP) widely used in the traditional medicine and spice sector. A study was carried out with the objective to ana- lyse essential oil content of bay leaf and their constituents using Gas Chromatography (GC) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectometry (GCMS) tests from one site each of Nepal and India based on their altitude and age . A total of 48 samples were prepared for the essential oil and GC and GCMS tests. L inalool and Cinnamaldehyde-linalool were found to be the main constituent of the essential oils from Nepal and India respectively. Essential oil content is highest for new leaves from low altitudes. Cinnamaldehyde and linalool seem to set the preference for use of the leaves in the Indian spice industry. Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) standards lays down d-α phellandrene and eugenol as the main constituents of essential oil of bay Leaf. The findings suggest that the leaves from the research areas may not be suitable for Ayurvedic purposes. There is a need for developing chemical content based standards in the value chain and prom o- tion of its cult ivation for improving livelihoods and biotrade in mountains .

In vitro and in vivo activities of blends of crude aqueous extracts from Allium sativum L, Callistemon citrinus (Curtis) Skeels and Moringa stenopetala (Baker F) Cufodontis against Leishmania major

Abstract: Leishmania major caused cutaneous leishmaniasis leads to painful skin so res in humans and usual drugs are expensive, toxic, and require prolonged use. The in vitro and in vivo efficacy of aqueous crude extracts from Callistemon citrinus flowers (B), Allium sativum bulbs (C) and Moringa stenopetala leaves (A) against L. major was studied. Con- trols were pentostam, liposomal amphotericin B, and phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Dried and ground plant materials were soaked in distilled water at 70 o C for 1.5 hours, filtered and freeze dried to obtain aqueous extracts. L. major infected BALB/c mice were treated orally or intra peritoneally (ip) with blends of the extracts. Minimum inhibitory concentra- tions (MICs) of single extracts ranged from 3 to 5mg/ml while IC 50 from 297 to 575µg/ml compared to MICs of 12.50 and 6.25µg/ml and IC50 of 0.26 and 0.82µg/ml for pentostam and liposomal amphotericin B respectively. Blends of M. stenopetala and C. citrinus (AB), M. stenopetala and A. sativum (AC), and C. citrinus and A. sativum (BC) at concentra- tions based on MICs of individual extracts wer e active at ratios 1:1, 1:9 and 1:1 with promastigotes' viabilities of 33.82%, 17.41% and 60.74 % respectively. IC50 for blends AB, AC, and BC ranged from 174µg/ml to 1314µg/ml against promastigotes. The individual extracts comprising blends AB, AC and BC interacted additively and synergistically in several combination ratios. Blend AC (1:1) at 125µg/ml had in vitro infection rate (IR) of 71% and multiplication index (MI) of 48.20% for L. major amastigotes compared to IR of 67% and MI of 47.51% for pentostam at 12.50µg/ml. Oral blend BC (1:1) reduced the mice footpad lesion size significantly (P < 0.05). Both oral blends BC and AC reduced mice spleen amastigotes by 48.33% and 60.94% with total LDUs of 6.35 ± 0.66 and 4.80 ± 0.95 respectively. Oral blend AB (1:1) lowered spleen amastigotes by 6.5% with total LDU of 11.49 ± 6.84. In conclusion, aqueous blends of C. citrinus, A. sativum and M. stenopetala extracts that interacted additively or sy nergistically were less toxic but active against L. major.

An in vivo experimental trial to determine the efficacy of stem-bark extract of Khaya senegalensis A. Juss (Meliaceae) for treating gastric ulcer in rat.

Abstract: Khaya senegalensisA. Juss (Meliaceae) is a plant that has a variety of traditional medical applications a nd it is used to treat gastroduodenal ulcers and pain. In this study, the antiulcer effect of the plant was evaluated in laboratory animal models. Antiulcer effect of the methanol extract of K. senegalensis was evaluated by measuring gastric acidity, volume, mucus and malondialdehyde concentrations in rats. Similarly, ethanol -induced gastric ulceration was used to assess the antiulcer activity of the extract. When administered orally, the extract at doses of 400 and 800 mg/kg pr oduced significant (p<0.05) dose-dependent decrease in gastric acid concentration and volume. Similarly, the extract caused a significant (p<0.05) increase in gastric mucus and decrease Malondialdehyde concentrations in a dose -dependent fashion. At doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg, the extract also causes remission of gastric ulcer lesions. The pharmacological a c- tions of the extract were comparable to standard drugs (cimetidine and misoprostol) used in this study. The findings in this study suggest that the methanol extract of the stem -bark of K. senegalensis possesses antiulcer and gastric antisecretory effects. Phytochemical investigation of methanol extract of K. senegalensis revealed the presence of alka- loids, carbohydrate, glycosides, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and triterpenes, which may be involved in the observed pharmacological action of the plant. The results justify the traditional use of the stem -bark of K. senegalensis for the treatment of gastroduodenal ulcers. However, further detailed studies are required in both labor atory and target animal species to fully justify the clinical application of the extract in treating gastroduodenal ulcers .