Showing papers in "IOSR Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences in 2014"

Medicinal properties of Zingiber officinale Roscoe - A Review

Abstract: Ginger (Zingiber officinale) belong to Zingiberacae family is one of the famous spices all over the world. It is a perennial creeping plant with long leaves, yellow green flowers and thick tuberous rhizome. This is a type of storage root having pungent taste. Ginger has a long history of medicinal use for more than 2000 years as one of the most versatile medicinal plants having a wide spectrum of biological activity. From ancient times ginger has been exploited both as Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for curing heart problems, menstruation disorder, food poisoning, osteoarthritis, epilepsy, nausea, inflammation, cough and cold, motion sickness, menstrual cramps, cancer and many more. Besides these it also exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The medicinal properties of ginger are due to the presence of gingerol and paradol, shogaols, etc. Medicinal value of ginger and its knowledge provide the good platform for researchers for future research to protect human beings from several types of diseases.

Effect of Phosphorus fertilizer on growth and yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)

Abstract: Phosphorus is important for cowpea production in many tropical African soils with inherent low phosphorus fertility. Most farmers in Africa, however, do not have access to phosphorus fertilizer. Selection of cowpea lines that produce good yield under low soil phosphorus or those with high phosphorus use efficiency can be a low input approach to solving this problem. This research work was conducted in pot trials at the teaching and research farm of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, in the south eastern part of Nigeria to determine the effect of different phosphorus levels on growth and yield of three varieties of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp), obtained from the germplasm unit of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan. The experiment consists of five phosphorus levels (0kgha, 20kgha, 40kgha, 60kgha and 80kgha) each of which contains seven replicates. Phosphorus fertilizer significantly enhanced growth and yield characters of the cowpea varieties used; plant height, leaf area, number of leaves and number of branches in all the weeks of measurement were significantly improved. Phosphorus also had a significant effect (p> 0.05) on seed yield per treatment, weight of 50 seeds, number of nodules, weight of nodules and total aboveground dry matter in all varieties used. However, variations were observed in the responses of the different cowpea varieties to phosphorus application. High yield values were observed in variety three; IT99K-573-2-1, followed by variety two; IT99K-573-1-1 and variety one; IT97K-499-35. Highest value in all the yield characters measured was observed in variety three: IT99K-573-2-1 at phosphorus fertilizer rate of 40kgha. When phosphorus is available, IT99K-573-2-1and 40kgha phosphorus application rate is recommended.

Phytochemical, Proximate and Mineral Composition of Leaf Extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam. from Nsukka, South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract: The phytochemical constituents aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam. were assessed and compared. The mineral and proximate analyses were done on the whole leaf extract. The result of the qualitative phytochemical constituents of both leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera showed presence of all the tested phytochemicals (flavonoids, anthraquinone, alkaloids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, anthocyanin, tannins and carotenoids) with water extracting more of the phytochemicals. Results showed the presence of iron (0.03g/100g), calcium (2.09g/100g), magnesium (0.48g/100g), potassium (1.62g/100g), phosphorus (0.04g/100g), zinc (0.005g/100g), copper (0.01g/100g) and sulphur (0.85g/100g). Proximate analysis revealed the presence of carbohydrate (57.01%), protein (18.92%), fats (2.74%), fibre (9.31%), moisture (4.09%) and ash (7.95%). The results from this study prove the extensive use of the leaves of this plant in ethnomedicine and its potentials in drug formulation.

Synthesis and In Vitro Antibacterial Properties of Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles

Abstract: hydroxyapatite (HAP, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) nanoparticles are important biocompatible materials and were successfully synthesized by a new and simple precipitation process using calcium hydroxide, phosphoric acid as phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) precursors and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The crystal structures and morphologies of the as synthesized hydroxyapatite were analyzed by X-ray diffractions (X-ray), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Single phase HAP, with an average grain size of about 19 nm and surface area of 61 m 2 /g, was obtained. Additionally, the antibacterial activity of the as synthesized HAP nanoparticles related to gram positive and gram negative bacteria's were examined, too. Finally, the obtained results indicated that the HAP nanoparticles possess excellent and a broad spectrum antibacterial activity and it can potentially be applied in medical and environmental fields.

Antibacterial Activity of Seed and Leaf Extract of Carica Papaya var. Pusa dwarf Linn

Abstract: The study dealt with the antibacterial activity of aqueous, chloroform extract of leaves and aqueous, methanolic extract of seeds of Carica papaya var. pusa dwarf through agar well diffusion assay against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli and Salmonella typhi. It was revealed that the aqueous as well as the methanolic extract of seeds were effective to inhibit the bacterial pathogens while in case of chloroform extract of Carica papaya leaves did not show any inhibition against the bacteria and the aqueous leaf extract was potent to inhibit them.

Association Of Handgrip Strength With Body Mass Index Among Nigerian Students.

Abstract: The aim of the present research was to study the relationship between handgrip strength with body mass index in 400 randomly selected Secondary School Students in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. The students were from Two Secondary Schools and were aged between 14-18 years with mean age of 16.00±1.35. Various anthropometric variables studied include, the height, weight, BMI, hand width and length, upper and lower arm length, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and handgrip strength were measured using standard anthropometric measurement techniques. The results show that male students had higher mean values in height (16.00±1.35kg), weight (46.34±8.30cm), hand length (19.34±0.98cm), hand width (10.45±0.90cm), forearm length (27.93±1.92cm), arm length (31.93±2.46cm) and handgrip strength (35.63±17.17), while having lower mean values in BMI (17.45±2.30) and MUAC (24.23±2.26cm). Male students had a higher mean handgrip strength which is significantly correlated (P≤0.01) with all the variables studied while female students had handgrip strength with a significant positive correlation (P≤0.01) with some of the variables. It may be concluded that handgrip strength had strong positive correlations with all the anthropometric variables associated with BMI in Nigerian Secondary School Students of Kano metropolis.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting among the Pharmacy Students in South India

Abstract: The Study entitled "Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and perception of Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting among the Pharmacy Students in South India" was designed to assess the awareness of Pharmacovigilance and ADR reporting, and to evaluate the impact of an educational intervention. A validated (pilot study) self administered (KAP) Knowledge, attitude, perception survey questionnaire was used in the study. This prospective knowledge attitude practice (KAP) questionnaire study, of 6 month duration included a total of 225(90%) participants out of 250. An interactive educational intervention was designed for all participants of pre-KAP questionnaire survey. The impact of effectiveness of educational intervention among the pharmacy students was evaluated by means of post-KAP questionnaire survey. The paired t-test and chi-square test in GraphPad InStat was used for statistical calculation. The overall response rates between pre intervention and post intervention was statistically significant (P< 0.001) shows effectiveness of educational intervention for improving awareness of pharmacovigilance and ADR reporting among the participants. The study concluded that imparting the knowledge and awareness of Pharmacovigilance among the pharmacy students by means of continuous educational intervention would bring up updated knowledge and practice in drug safety and rational use.

Role of herbs in root canal irrigation-A review

Abstract: One of the major objectives of a root canal treatment is to disinfect the root canal system. Irrigation is carried out to reduce the number of bacteria in the root canals. For this purpose, a wide variety of synthetic drugs are available today but due to the ineffectiveness, safety concerns and side effects of these synthetic drugs, the herbal alternatives for endodontic irrigants might be advantageous. Herbal alternatives are popular mainly due to their easy availability, cost effectiveness, increased shelf life and low toxicity. Thus this review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of the various herbal endodontic irrigants and their efficacy in carrying out root canal irrigation.

Antimicrobial Qualities of Senna Alata

Abstract: The antimicrobial activity of the root and leaf extracts of the Senna alata plant against some infectious bacteria (Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa etc) and fungi (spergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans etc) as well as the physiochemical and microbiological quality of the plant was determined using the cup plate agar diffusion method. The freshly collected fresh mature leaves and roots were chopped into pieces and shade-dried at 32-35 0 C to constant weight for 5 days. 50g each of the plant parts was coarsely powdered using a mortar and pestle and finely powdered using an electric blender. Each of the powdered air-dried plant material was extracted with water, acetone and methanol. All the extracts demonstrated considerable activity against both Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria and some fungi with the organic extracts showing higher activity than the aqueous extracts. Stretococus pyogenes and S. aureus were the most susceptible to all the extracts followed by Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli. The most susceptible fungi were Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans while the least susceptible was Aspergillus flavus. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of the methanol extracts ranged between 3-10 mg/ml and 25-50 mg/ml for bacteria and fungi respectively. Preliminary phytochemical analysis showed that the extracts contained tannins, saponins, glycosides, flavonoids and phenols. The results obtained show the basis for the local usage of S. alata Linn as an antimicrobial. Phytochemical result showed ethanol to be a better solvent for the extraction of the bioactive agents in Senna alata which include: glycosides, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids and volatile oil. Despite the significant progress made in microbiology and the control of microorganisms, sporadic incidents of epidemics due to drug resistant microorganisms pose an enormous threat to public health. The use of medicinal plants for antimicrobial activities needs to be given more attention.

The Diaphyseal nutrient foramina architecture - a study on the human upper and lower limb long bones

Abstract: The nutrient foramina are cavities that conduct the nutrient arteries and the peripheral nerves on the shaft of long bones. Long bones receive most of the interosseous blood supply from the nutrient arteries, and sometimes through the periosteal vessels. Nutrient arteries play an important role in nutrition and growth of the bones particularly during its growth period in the embryo and fetus as well as during early phases of ossification. The present study was conducted in the department of Anatomy, MNR Medical college, Sangareddy, Medak, Andhra Pradesh and Govt. Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra. A study group comprised of 1320 (840male, 480 female) long bones of upper and lower limbs of known age and sex from the bone library. The number, location, direction, position and also whether the nutrient foramina obey the general rule that is directed away from the growing end of long bone is determined in this study. Distance of nutrient foramina from either ends of long bones are more in males than females. Single nutrient foramen is common in females whereas multiple nutrient foramena in males. Femur showed highest number of nutrient foramena in 2 nd segment in males and females only 1% shows multiple nutrient foramens in second segment. Two nutrient foramens were found in 68% of femur, 14% of tibia, 20% of fibula and only 10% of Humerus while it is less in females.

Evaluation of antioxidant efficacy of different fractions of Tagetes erecta L. Flowers

Abstract: Oxidative stress is an important pathogenesis of numerous chronic diseases. Free radicals and other reactive oxygen species are recognized as agents involved in the pathogenesis of sicknesses. The main characteristic of an antioxidant is its ability to trap free radical. Plants rich in phenolic compounds are generally reported to show good antioxidant activity. Tagetes erecta L (Marigold) belongs to the family Asteraceae. The flowers are especially employed to cure eye diseases, colds, conjunctivitis, coughs, ulcer, bleeding piles and to purify blood. The extractive efficiency of phenolic compounds from plant material is greatly dependent on the choice of solvent. In this study, six solvents of different polarity viz., hexane, toluene, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol and water have been used for the extraction of Tagetes erecta L. flower by individual cold percolation method. Phenolic and flavonoid content of extracts were determined using Folin- ciocalteu assays and aluminium chloride colorimetric method respectively. Antioxidant activity was carried out by DPPH radical scavenging activity assay, superoxide free radical scavenging (SO) assay, ABTS radical cation scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), Reducing capacity assessment. Maximum extractive yield was in water extract followed by methanol extract. There was a direct correlation between phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Methanolic extract had maximum phenolic content and maximum FRAP and SO activity. ABTS and DPPH did not show positive correlation with total phenol content in ethyl acetate extract. Ethyl acetate extract had maximum flavonoid content. T. erecta flowers can be used as a natural source of antioxidants to combat the oxidative stress related disorders. Key word: Tagetes erecta, Influence of solvent, Antioxidant activity, positive correlation

Efficacy of Leaf Extract of Drumstick Tree (Moringa Oleifera Lam.) On The Growth of Local Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)

Abstract: A field study was conducted on the growth of tomato plants with leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera. Different concentrations of the crude extract measured for treatments: A 20%, B 40%, C 60%, D 80%, and E with 100%. In the treatments used, l00ml of distilled water was sprayed at the stem base of the plant labeled F which served as control. Four (4) parameters were determined at each week of the experiment i.e. plant height (PH), number of leaves (NL), number of branches (NB) and number of flowers (NF) at five (5) different times. A corresponding increase appeared in the study area. Treatments D (80g/20ml), C (60g/40m1) B (40g/60ml) and an average plant height, A (20g/80ml). Control was found to have the least of all the growth parameters with an average plant height, leaves number, number of branches and number of flowers of 18.8, 51.0, 9.1 and 1.6. This indicates that, the Moringa leaf extract used significantly increased the growth and yield of tomato plants in all the trials with erect stemming, fresh leaves, regular branching and healthy fruits and regular flowering.

Phytochemical, antioxidant and microbial inhibitory effects of Spondias mombin leaf and stem bark extracts.

Abstract: AIM: The study evaluated the phytochemical, antioxidant and microbial inhibitory properties of the leaf and stem bark extracts of Spondias mombin. METHODOLOGY: Ten grams of the leaves and stem bark were each extracted with 100ml of 80% ethanol, hot and cold water respectively and allowed to stand for 24 hrs. The phytoconstituents, antioxidant vitamins C and E and antimicrobial testing were carried by standard methods. RESULTS: There were the presence of the tested phytoconstituents in both the leaves and stem bark extracts using different extraction media. The leaves contain saponins, alkaloids and tannins in all the extraction media while flavonoids, alkaloids and tannins were detected in all the extraction media of the stem bark. The leaf extract contained more vitamin C and E than the stem bark extracts. The ethanolic extract showed increased activity against Staphylococcus aureus when compared to the inhibitions observed with the other tested microorganisms. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that the plant has both medicinal and antioxidant properties.

Growth Response of Indian Spinach to Biogas Plant Residues

Abstract: A pot experiment was conducted to study the growth response of Indian spinach (Basella alba L) to biogas plant residues. There were seven treatments comprising of control, recommended NPK fertilizer and biogas plant residues (BPR) @ 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ton ha -1 . The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Results indicated that number of leaves; plant height and root length and dry weight of shoot and root obtained with recommended NPK fertilizer were statistically similar to those with control treatment except for number of leaves at 60 DAS. Application of biogas plant residues up to 30 ton ha -1 produced similar number of leaves and plant height compared to control and recommended NPK fertilizer at 30 DAS. At 60 DAS, a significantly higher number of leaves and root length was found with above 20 ton ha -1 biogas plant residues and plant height with above 10 ton ha -1 biogas plant residues than control and recommended NPK fertilizer. Fresh weight of shoot and root found with recommended fertilizer dose were significantly higher than that with the control but lower than that with biogas plant residues above 30 ton ha -1 and 10 ton ha -1 , respectively. Biogas plant residues at 30 ton ha -1 and above gave higher shoot and root dry weight than control and recommended NPK fertilizer. However, there were no significant differences between BPR40 and BPR50 for growth parameters of Indian spinach. The study recommends 40 ton ha -1 of biogas plant

Antimicrobial, Nutritional and Phytochemical Properties of Monodora Myristica Seeds

Abstract: Seeds of Monodora myristica was investigated for its antimicrobial, nutritional and phytochemical properties. Results of the study, shows that the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the seeds, were active against both gram negative and gram positive organisms used. Important bioactive constituents found to be present in the extracts were alkaloids, anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds. Yield extracts of the powdered seeds, was for water 7.94% and ethanol 12.5%, indicating that ethanol was the better of the two solvents used. Results of the antibacterial activity of the extracts reveal that the ethanolic extracts at different concentrations were more active against the test organisms namely Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi than the aqueous extracts. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for the aqueous extract ranged between 2.5 and 3.0 mg/ml while that for ethanolic extract was between 2.5 and 3.5 mg/ml. The minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) values for aqueous extract ranged between 3.0 and 3.5 mg/ml while that for ethanolic extract ranged between 3.5 and 4.0 mg/ml. Nutritionally result from the study justifies the use of the seed as both a spice and food component by locals. The seed was particularly found to be very rich in potassium and magnesium. There is therefore the need for further studies on the active components of the seeds of Monodora myristica so as to maximize its medicinal and nutritional potential.

Probiotic Efficacy and Potential of Streptococcus thermophilus modulating human health: A synoptic review

Abstract: The use of probiotic bacterial cultures stimulates the growth of preferred microorganisms, crowds out potentially harmful bacteria, and reinforces the body's natural defence mechanisms. Streptococcus thermophilus has been exploited industrially for making cheese as well as yogurt. One of the most important properties of this bacterium which is being used is production of lactase, an enzyme that converts lactose (milk sugar) into a simple sugar, which helps people who are lactose intolerant to digest milk. So consumption of this microbe has facilitated to alleviate symptoms of lactose intolerance and other gastrointestinal problems. Due to this unique feature of the microbe, it has been added to several health supplements along with other bacteria with similar properties. Over and above, it also produces a variety of antagonistic factors that include metabolic end products, antibiotic-like substances and bactericidal proteins, termed bacteriocins which assist to prevent several types of infections from various pathogenic microbes. In addition, the bacterium is endowed with enormous important beneficial properties. The following review will discuss with some beneficial aspects of S. thermophilus.

Phytochemical and Antioxidant Analyses of Selected Edible Mushrooms, Ginger and Garlic from Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

Abstract: Antioxidant defense and repair systems naturally found in humans as well as in other living organisms are insufficient to completely prevent biological injuries caused by free radicals because of the relative ease with which we are constantly exposed to processes that generate them. The advantage of dietary antioxidants over synthetic ones (which are associated with gross side effects) as free radical scavengers has been documented worldwide. In this study, the phytochemical and antioxidant analyses of selected edible mushrooms, ginger and garlic from Ebonyi State, Nigeria, were carried out using dried extracts of the samples. The results revealed the presence of valuable phytochemicals including: phenolics, flavonoid, proanthocyanidin, saponin, alkaloid, tannin, phytic acid, and cyanogenic glycosides. Ginger (Zingiber officianale) had the highest phenolics content of 64.42±0.91 mg/g, closely followed by the mushroom, Tricholoma nudum, (64.122±1.20) and garlic (Allium sativum) (12.42±0.61 mg/g). Least phenolics content of 2.65±0.006 mg/g was observed in the study with the mushroom, Boletus spp. Ginger also had the highest flavonoid content of 0.045±0.001 μg/g. The presence of these bioactive or phytochemical compounds supports the possible antimicrobial and antioxidant potentials of mushrooms, ginger and garlic and high phenolics and flavonoid contents of ginger and mushroom suggests high antioxidant potentials.

Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne Species) Distribution in Some Tomato Fields in Makurdi

Abstract: Studies were conducted to assess the distribution of root-knot nematode in some tomato fields in Makurdi from October 2010 to January 2011. Tomato plants were surveyed for infection based on symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing of leaves and wilting in farmers' farm for determining disease incidence. Number of knots (NK) and root knot index (RKI) was used for disease severity. Disease plant Samples were collected and taken to the laboratory for extraction. Perineal patterns were prepared and examined under the microscope and species identified using appropriate keys. The result shows incidence range from 20%-60% in October, 2010 and 20%-80% January, 2011 while the severity of the disease ranged from 1-3 in October, 2010 and 1-4 in January, 2011. Significant differences (P=0.05) in the study areas. Egg Mass Index (EMI) and Gall Index (GI) ranged from 1.0 - 4.0. Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica were identified to be the causes of infection. It is suggested that control methods should be applied in the nematode management in farmers fields

Comparative Chemical Analyses of Vernonia amygdalina and Azadirachta indica Leaves

Abstract: The chemical and elemental constituents of Vernonia amygdalina and Azadirachta indica leaves were investigated. Phytochemical analysis was determined by the methods of Association of Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The trace elements and macronutrients concentrations of both samples were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS). Vernonia amygdalina leaves recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher levels of flavonoids, saponins and caroteinoids while Azadirachta indica leaves had higher levels of alkaloids, glycosides, phenols and steroids. Vernonia amygdalina also recorded higher concentrations of zinc, iron, and manganese while there were higher levels of nickel, molybdenum, cobalt, silicon and lead in the leaves of Azadirachta indica. There were higher levels (mg/100g) of potassium, sodium and phosphorus in Azadirachta indica which recorded 0.843 ± 0.019, 0.301 ± 0.047 and 0.280 ± 0.002 respectively with corresponding values in Vernonia amygdalina as 0.710 ± 0.016, 0.334 ± 0.006 and 0.382 ± 0.006. The results showed that both leaves contained varying concentrations of chemical, elemental and macronutrient components. They can serve as good sources of useful elements. The leaves of Vernonia amygdalina could have better anti-oxidant properties than Azadirachta indica leaves.

Evaluation of In Vitro Ovicidal Activity of Ethanolic Extracts of Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC (Fabaceae)

Abstract: Gastrointestinal nematode infections in ruminants have direct effects such as mortality, weaknesses, feeding efficiency and decreased productivity. Animal deaths due to nematode infections are common in tropical regions where control programs based solely on the use of synthetic anthelmintics are no longer sustainable due to increased prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode resistance, slow development of new anthelmintics, high costs to poor farmers and concerns regarding residue in food and the environment. Alternative methods of control are thus required. Prosopis juliflora is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree adapted to poor and saline soils in arid and semi-arid lands of Kenya, inhabited by nomadic pastoralists. Analysis of the EHA data using t- test revealed that there was no statistically significant difference in the activities of both LEE and REE (p>0.05). However, in comparison to ALB, the difference in activity was significantly different (p<0.05). The observed in vitro anthelmintic activity was attributed to saponins and condensed tannins and to alkaloids present in the plant. Phytochemical analysis confirmed presence of tannins, saponins and alkaloids, among other phytoconstituents. These phytochemicals are known to exhibit anthelmintic activity, therefore making the plant a potential candidate for drug development against gastrointestinal nematodes.

Documentation and Assessment on Knowledge of Ethno- Medicinal Practitioners: A Case Study on Local Meetei Healers of Manipur

Abstract: The traditional medicinal healersof the state Manipurare generally known as Maibas for male health practioner and Maibis in case of female health practioner. Since time immemorial they are involved in prescribing folk-medicine with the help of herbal-medicine or mystic incantation. An investigation on 41 local Maiba and Maibi of Meetei community of Manipur is carried out to find reliability of their knowledge, and tested if these were related significantly to age, literacy, hesitation, results of their treatment, doses and to document such know ledges based on a total of 205 locally available medicinal plant spp. belonging to 87 families used for treating 18 major diseases classes. Traditional medicinal practioners were also interviewed to gather information regarding knowledge of folk medicinal system, diagnostic system of ailments, classification of folk medicinal system, nomenclatural system and uses of medicinal plants found in Manipur as a remedy for various primary health complaints. In the present study three types folk medicinal system were recorded. The diagnostic system is bases on pulsation and symptoms. Nomenclature of medicinal plants was made in with reference to its medicinal value and traditional culture for easy identification. The Meetei forefathers put several norms for do and don'ts of eating food plants accordingly to the season and its consequences. Most of the species (72.20%) were wild species and the part used for medicinal properties were above-ground (83.41%) amongst which leaves (27.80%) were mainly harvested. Concoction mode of preparation (21.46%) is the most common way of preparation and gastrointestinal ailments (13.170%) constitute the major ailments treated. About 55.60% of the medicinal plants collected were taken orally taken internally for treatment of various primary health ailments. For some ailments like jaundice, snake bites, dog bites and stone cases, etc , more than 90% of the Manipuris preferred folk medicine rather than modern medicine. Age interval 56 and above constitute 70.7 % of the informants of which majority of them are excellent professionals (46.3 %) in the field of medicine of which almost 48.8% of them are illiterate. Again, age 35 - 45 were persons who have good knowledge of folk medicine but lacks experience, 46 - 55 have mixed type of folk medicine knowledge where as age above 56 have a good experience and better knowledge except some who have limited knowledge of folk medicine as they are following their parents footsteps only or due to their expertise is meant for treatment of a very few diseases only. Statistical analyses showed that there was significant correlation between the age of the informant and his knowledge of plants on folk medicine. According to our statistical analysis, spearman correlation showed significant correlation (Spearman correlation test, r = 0.5435, at 5% level of significance) between the education level of traditional healers and the number of species reported. Majority of herbal healers learnt their knowledge of folk medicine from mangtak (43.9%), it is from followed by forefathers (24.4%) and senior herbal practioners as guru (24.4%) later other few learnt from literature. An excellent herbal practitioner could be characterized by aged (56 years and above) old experience, educated, who were accustomed with the use of wild plants, whose forefathers were herbal practitioners, who had gained high confidence of doses and cure, and with good knowledge of folk medicine and plants.

Antimalarial Activity and Isolation of Phenolic Compound from Parkia biglobosa

Abstract: Parkia biglobosa popularly called African locust bean tree is used traditionally for the treatment of malaria. Phenolic compounds were found to be the major antimalarial components of Parkia biglobosa .The aim of this work is to evaluate the antiplasmodial activity and isolate phenolic compounds from Parkia biglobosa.The stem barks of Parkia biglobosa were extracted with methanol to obtain methanol extract. The extract was also subjected to column chromatography to obtain four fractions, these fractions were preliminary tested for antiplasmodial potency and methanol fraction which gave the most potent effect was fully evaluated and was refractionated to obtain the phenolic compounds. Phytochemical test, Thin layer chromatography (TLC), Infra-red (IR) spectroscopy and functional group tests were used to study the compounds. The compounds showed antimalarial activity against P.berghei and clinical isolate of P.falciparum. This study confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds in the stem extract of Parkia biglobosa, further research is needed to identify the chemical structures of the compounds from Parkia biglobosa and this may serve as new lead structure in the development of an antimalarial agent.

The Plankton as Indicators of Water Quality in Kusalla Reservoir: A Shallow Man Made Lake

Abstract: The composition, abundance and distribution of the plankton of Kusalla reservoir was studied between June 2006 and May 2007. With the aim of assessing the responses of the plankton to seasonal and spatial changes. Plankton samples were collected monthly from six sampling stations using standard methods. Eighteen species of phytoplankton belonging to four taxa were recorded. Twenty species of zooplankton from four taxa were observed. There was significant seasonal and spatial variation (p=0.05) in the distribution of the phytoplankton and zooplankton. There was significant positive correlation (r = 0.7689) between the distribution and abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton in Kusalla reservoir. Shannon-Weiner index of 5.17, 4.24 and 5.24 for stations 1,2 and 6 respectively indicate that these stations have a relatively high species diversity and therefore are not polluted. The distribution of the plankton shows that they are sensitive to changes in levels of nutrients and other interactions with one another and with other factors. As such the plankton can be good indicators of water quality.

Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxic evaluation of novel derivatives of 1, 3, 4-oxadiazole containing 5-phenyl thiophene moiety.

Abstract: In the present work a series of novel derivatives of 1,3,4-oxadiazoles containing 5-phenyl thiophene moiety has been synthesized by convergent synthetic method and studied their anticancer properties. The synthesized compounds were characterized by spectral ( 1 H-NMR, 13 C NMR, MS and elemental) analyses. Three cell lines were used for thecytotoxic evaluation namely, HepG2, Caco-2 and PANC-1. The synthetic chemistry involved conversion of various substituted aromatic acids into ethyl ester 2a-e. The ethyl ester was converted into corresponding carbohydrazide 3a-e. Carbohydrazides3a-e were reacted with 5-phenyl thiophene-2- carboxaldehyde(5) in presence of acetic acid as catalyst and obtained novel Schiff base compounds6a-e. The Schiff base derivatives were cyclized using chloramine-T as promoter and obtained novel derivatives of 1,3,4- oxadiazole 7a-e.Among the synthesised compounds, the cytotoxicity of the compound 7b i.e. 2-(4'- fluorobiphenyl-3-yl)-5-(5-phenylthiophen-2-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole against Caco-2 cell line with IC50 of 5.3µM. The compound 7e i.e.2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-(5-phenylthiophen-2-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazoleshowed moderate cytotoxicity against HepG2 with IC50 of 28.4µM. Rest of the compounds showed less cytotoxicity against all the

Efficacy and Safety of some Medical Herbs on Gastric Ulcer Induced by Aspirin in Rats

Abstract: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used drugs in inflammation treatment. NSAIDs are associated with several side effects especially on the stomach. Considering these limitations of NSAIDs side effect, alternate natural nontoxic antioxidant with potent antiulcer activity such as ginger or curcumin was needed. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate the correction role of ranitidine alone or with ginger or/and curcumin on aspirin induced gastric ulcer in adult male albino rats. Gastric ulcer in rats was induced by administered aspirin (500mg/Kg body weight/day) for three successive days to the animals. The obtained data revealed that aspirin induced a significant (p<0.05) increase in macroscopic ulcer score, gastric acidity and gastric production of mucosal non-protein sulfhrydryl group than those in control ones. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β & IL-8) were significantly (p<0.05) increase associated with remarkable elevation in the levels of total oxidant capacity and malondialdehyde (MDA) in ulcergenic rats. On the other hand, aspirin caused significant (p<0.05) decrease in the gastric total anti-oxidant capacity, prostaglandine E2, cyclooxygenase and vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) levels as compared to control rats. These disturbances in all the pervious parameters were ameliorated after the ulcerogenic rats treated with ginger, curcumin or their mixture accompanied with ranitidine treatment dependent on the time of administration (1&2 weeks). These findings are consistent with the concept that curcumin and ginger are antioxidant agents. The underlying mechanisms of these effects were discussed with available recent researches.

Formulation and evaluation of Antiwrinkle activity of Cream and Nano emulsion of Moringa oleifera seed oil

Abstract: Aging is a natural phenomenon that leads to various changes in the physiology of the skin. The changes occurring in the physiology of the skin makes the candidate to appear old. Application of antiaging creams is the best choice even though various treatment methods are available because it nourishes skin and prevents or repairs fine lines and wrinkles thus giving young looking appearance. Apart from that, nature has an excellent anti-aging remedies that acts externally whereas internally to delay aging signs and some will act to repair and prevent aging signs. In the present study, Moringa oleifera was studied for its antiaging benefits as the seed oil is rich in antioxidants that might prevent the oxidative damage of the skin. By using the Moringa seed oil in various ratios, cream and nano emulsion were prepared and they are characterised for its physical properties. The best formula was optimised which has been evaluated for antiaging activity using animal models by topical application of the formulations for two times a day upto 30days and the results were compared with the standard. The results showed that the nano emulsion formulation was found more efficacious than the cream formulation. This shows that the moringa oil has a good antiaging activity and donot showed any irritant effects on skin.

Hepatoprotective and antioxidative effect of ethanolic leaf extract of Langenaria breviflora (bitter gourd) on indomethacin-ulcerated rats.

Abstract: Studies on the possibility of indomethacin-mediated hepatotoxicity have not received considerable attention over the years. The percentage of chronic users continue to rise, and its consequential hepatotoxic effect is encountered more frequently than ever. This study explored the effect of administration of ethanolic leaves extract of Lageneria breviflora on the hepatocyte and stomach of indomethacin-ulcerated rats. Ulceration was induced with indomethacin (60 mg/kg b.wt). Ulcerated rats were then administered with 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract for 21 days. At the end of the experiment, liver function indices and stomach oxidative status were evaluated. The study indicates that the extract significantly reduced (p< 0.05) serum activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase as well as albumin and total bilirubin concentrations. The stomach catalase and superoxide dismutase activities as well as the reduced glutathione level also improved significantly (p< 0.05) following treatment with the extract. Stomach lipid peroxidation in the ulcerated rats was also normalized by the extract. Data from this study indicates that the leaves of Lageneria breviflora possess hepatoprotective and antioxidative activities. Our findings suggest that the extract exerts its antiulcerogenic activity via antioxidative

The impact of each of the essential oils of marjoram and lemon grass in conjunction with gamma irradiation against the Greater Wax Moth, Galleria Mellonella

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the larvicidal activity of essential oils derived from two essential plants and / or gamma irradiation against early fourth instar larvae of the greater wax moth (GWM), Galleria mellonella L. was investigated. Methods: The oil of two plants were tested namely; Marjoram, Origanum majorana and Lemon Grass, Cymbopogon proximus were tested. To evaluate the relative efficacies of these materials as alternative control agent against GWM. The two essential oils were evaluated further for the determination of their LC10, LC50 and LC90 values based on Probit analysis, five of gamma irradiation doses (100,150,200,250 and 300 Gy) and the combined effect of them and essential oil were tested. Results: Comparing the estimated LC10, LC50, LC90 values of present investigation of mentioned essential oils indicated that essential oils of Origanum majorana is more toxic to G. mellonella than the other essential oil of Cymbopogon proximus, then were selected in combined with the dose of 100 Gy in the shared experience. It also found that the percentage of pupation, emergence and sex ratio decreased with increasing concentration of both extracts The lack of the number of eggs and the percentage of hatched eggs increase with the increase the radiation dose used from 100 Gy to 300 Gy -Also found that the percentage of larval mortality increases in the case of combined treatment of radiation and aromatic oils of the two plants than in the case of both of them solo. The percentages of pupation and emergence less in the case of combined treatment, but increased in the case of sex ratio Conclusion: it can be concluded that the insects varied in their susceptibility to various essential oils that probably referring to insecticidal ability of their active constituents

Intestinal Parasitic infections and Demographic status of school children in Bhopal region of Central India.

Abstract: Background: School going children of age 6-12 years are the prime victims of intestinal parasitic infections. There is scant information available on the prevalence and distribution of intestinal parasites among school children in Bhopal region of Central India. Aim: To study, (a) prevalence and types of intestinal parasites in school children (b) Demographic status and sanitary habits of school children. Materials and Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted in 300 rural and 300 urban school children of age 6-12 years. Data collected from their parents on demographic factors and behavioral habits. As consent was obtained only from rural school, stool samples of rural school children were examined for parasites by saline and iodine wet mount. Results: The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 40.7%. Giardia intestinalis was the commonest protozoa found (43.44%). Among helminths, Ascaris lumbricoides was predominantly detected (9.84%). Literacy rate of head of family was 85% and 1.67% in rural and urban school children respectively. 49.33% used cloth filter and 41.66% used plain water for drinking in rural area while 15% used cloth filter and 34.66% used plain water for drinking in urban area. 7.33% of children from rural area and 3.0% children from urban area used open field for defecation. Dirty untrimmed nails were found in 86.23% of rural and 28.66% of urban school children. Conclusion: Burden of parasitic infections and poor sanitation are still important public health problems in school children of our region. Creating awareness about health, improving sanitation level and promotion of de-worming could reduce intestinal parasitic infestation.

Phytochemical, Antinutrient and Amino Acid Composition of Synsepalum dulcificum Pulp

Abstract: Quantitative phytochemical test shows that the pulp contains 3.45% saponin, 57.01%`flavonoids, 7.12% tannin, 0.0001% alkaloids, 0.0001% glycosides, 0.0003% resins, 0.0002% terpenoids, 0.0001% steroids and 0.0003% cyanogenic glycosides.Antinutrient analyses of the pulp show 5.67% oxalate, 0.03% phytates and 0.02% hemagglutanin. Amino acid analyses shows that S.dulcificum pulp contains 8.055% tryptophan, 1.35% phenylalanine, 0.7% isoleucine, 0.5% tyrosine, 1.05% methionine, 0.4% proline, 0.69% valine, 1.1% threonine, 0.4% histidine, 0.5% alanine, 1.02% glutamine, 1.6% glutamic acid, 0.7% glycine, 0.3% serine, 1% arginine, 0.1% aspartic acid, 1.23% asparagine, 0.6% lysine and 0.6% leucine.