Showing papers on "Xylopia aethiopica published in 2014"

Composition and cytotoxic activity of essential oils from Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich, Xylopia parviflora (A. Rich) Benth.) and Monodora myristica (Gaertn) growing in Chad and Cameroon.

Abstract: Cancer has become a global public health problem and the search for new control measures is urgent. Investigation of plant products such as essential oils from Monodora myristica, Xylopia aethiopica and Xylopia parviflora might lead to new anticancer therapy. In this study, we have investigated the antineoplastic activity of essential oils from fruits of these plants growing in Chad and Cameroon. The essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation of fruits of Monodora myristica, Xylopia aethiopica and Xylopia parviflora collected in Chad and Cameroon were analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS and investigated for their antiproliferative activity against the breast cancer cell line (MCF7). Overall, monoterpenes were mostly found in the six essential oils. Oils from X. aethiopica and X. parviflora from Chad and Cameroon mainly contain β-pinene at 24.6%, 28.2%, 35.7% and 32.9% respectively. Monodora myristica oils from both origins contain mainly α-phellandrene at 52.7% and 67.1% respectively. The plant origin did not significantly influence the chemical composition of oils. The six essential oils exerted cytotoxic activity against cancer (MCF-7) and normal cell lines (ARPE-19), with more pronounced effect on neoplastic cells in the majority of cases. The highest selectivity was obtained with the essential oils of X. parviflora from Chad and Cameroon (5.87 and 5.54) which were more cytotoxic against MCF-7 than against normal cell line (ARPE-19) with IC50 values of 0.155 μL/mL and 0.166 μL/mL respectively. Essential oils from fruits of Monodora myristica, Xylopia aethiopica and Xylopia parviflora have shown acceptable antineoplastic potency, and might be investigated further in this regard.

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 )-induced hepatic damage in experimental Sprague Dawley rats: Antioxidant potential of Xylopia aethiopica

Abstract: The present study was carried out to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of aqueous extract of Xylopia aethiopica stem bark (XASB) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver damage in sprague dawley rats. Experimental rats were randomly divided into four groups of five rats each. Group 1: served as the control rats, Group 2: was administered with CCl4 only in groundnut oil (1:1) at a dose of 3 ml/kg b.wt by single intraperitoneal administration. Group 3: was administered with extract of X. aethopica + CCl4 ( 250 mg/kg b.wt/day) , Group 4: was treated with extract of X. aethiopica + CCl4 ( 500 mg/kg b.wt/day).Serum alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels 24 hrs after CCl4 administration decreased significantly (p≤0.05) in rats pretreated with X. aethiopica than in CCl4-treated rat only. Total serum bilirubin also showed a remarkable decrease in rats pretreated with xylopia aethiopica when compared to those administered with CCl4 alone. The activities of GST and CAT in liver tissues were increased in the rats pretreated with X. aethiopica compared with CCl4 alone. Lipid peroxidation expressed by malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was significantly decreased (p≤0.05) in rats pretreated with X. aethiopica compared with CCl4 treated rat. However, the rats pretreated with X. aethiopica showed significant improvements in the cytoarchitecture of rat liver. The results suggested that aqueous extract of X. aethopica could palliate the liver injuries perhaps by its antioxidative effect, hence eliminating the deleterious effect of toxic metabolites from the CCl4.

Anti-allodynic and Anti-hyperalgesic effects of an ethanolic extract and xylopic acid from the fruits of Xylopia aethiopica in murine models of neuropathic pain.

Abstract: Background: Fruit extracts of Xylopia aethiopica are used traditionally in the management of pain disorders including headache and neuralgia. An animal model of vincristine-induced sensory neuropathy was developed after repeated intraperitoneal injection in rats and used in the present work to study the effects of the ethanolic extract of X. aethiopica (XAE) and its diterpene xylopic acid (XA) in vincristine-induced neuropathic pain. Materials and Methods: Vincristine (0.1 mg kg -1 day -1 ) was administered during two cycles of five consecutive days to induce chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. Static tactile anti-allodynic, anti-hyperalgesic, and cold anti-allodynic effects of XAE (30-300 mg kg -1 ) and XA (10-100 mg kg -1 ) were assessed using Von Frey filaments of bending forces of 4, 8, and 15 g, the Randall-Selitto paw pressure test, and cold water (4.5°C), respectively. Results: Administration of vincristine caused the development of allodynia and hyperalgesia with no significant motor deficit, spontaneous pain, and foot deformity. XAE (30-300 mg kg -1 ) and XA (10-100 mg kg -1 ) exhibited anti-hyperalgesic, tactile, and cold anti-allodynic properties with XA exhibiting greater potency than XAE. Pregabalin (10-100 mg kg -1 ) used as control produced similar effect. Conclusion: These findings establish the anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic effects of the ethanolic fruit XAE and its major diterpene XA in vincristine-induced neuropathtic pain.

Corrosion inhibition characteristics of Thymus vulgaris, Xylopia aethiopica and Zingiber officinale extracts on mild steel in H2SO4 solutions

Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to evaluate the inhibitive action of the corrosion of mild steel in sulphuric acid solutions by ethanol extracts of Thymus vulgaris (TYV), Xylopia aethiopica (XYA) and Zingiber officinale (ZGO) as eco-friendly and non-toxic mild-steel corrosion inhibitors in H2SO4 solutions. Design/methodology/approach – Ethanol extracts of TYV leaves, XYA fruits and ZGO roots were used as inhibitors in various corrosion tests. Gravimetric and gasometric techniques were used to characterize the mechanism of inhibition. Findings – Results indicate that the extracts inhibit the corrosion process efficiently. Inhibition efficiency was found to increase with an increase in extract concentration and decrease with an increase in temperature. Inhibition efficiencies followed the trend TYV > ZGO > XYA. Thermodynamic considerations revealed that the energy of activation increased in the presence of the plant extracts. Adsorption of the plant extracts on mild steel surface occurred spontaneously, and E a a...

Comparative Effects of Some Medicinal Plants: Anacardium occidentale, Eucalyptus globulus, Psidium guajava, and Xylopia aethiopica Extracts in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Male Wistar Albino Rats

Abstract: Insulin therapy and oral antidiabetic agents/drugs used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus have not sufficiently proven to control hyperlipidemia, which is commonly associated with the diabetes mellitus. Again the hopes that traditional medicine and natural plants seem to trigger researchers in this area is yet to be discovered. This research was designed to compare the biochemical effects of some medicinal plants in alloxan-induced diabetic male Wistar rats using named plants that are best at lowering blood glucose and hyperlipidemia and ameliorating other complications of diabetes mellitus by methods of combined therapy. The results obtained showed 82% decrease in blood glucose concentration after the 10th hour to the fortieth hour. There was significant increase P 0.05 recorded in the glutathione peroxidase activity of E. globulus (100 mg/kg) when compared to the test groups of P. guajava (250 mg/kg) and X. aethiopica (250 mg/kg). Catalase activity showed significant increase P 0.05, there was no significant difference seen between test group and treated groups. Meanwhile, degree of significance was observed in other parameters analysed. The biochemical analysis conducted in this study showed positive result, attesting to facts from previous works. Though these individual plants extracts exhibited significant increase in amelorating diabetes complication and blood glucose control compared to glibenclamide, a synthetic antidiabetic drug. Greater performance was observed in the synergy groups. Therefore, a poly/combined formulation of these plants extracts yielded significant result as well as resolving some other complications associated with diabetics.

Composition of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich essential oils from Cameroon and identification of a minor diterpene: ent-13-epi manoyl oxide

Abstract: Composition des huiles essentielles de Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich du Cameroun et identification d’un diterpene : ent-13-epi manoyl oxyde. L’huile essentielle des infrutescences de Xylopia aethiopica (Annonacee), de quatre localites du Cameroun, a ete analysee par GC/MS et GC/FID. Plus de soixante composes ont ete identifies avec 47,5–84,0 % de monoterpenes hydrocarbones, principalement le b-pinene et un melange de b-phellandrene et de 1,8-cineole, 6,5–12,9 % de monoterpenes oxygenes, 13,8–30,4 % de sesquiterpenes, et 0,4–0,6 % d’un diterpene non identifie. Les essais de purification sur colonne chromatographique et des analyses par GC/MS et RMN ont permis d’identifier ce diterpene comme etant le ent-13-epi manoyl oxyde qui est rapporte pour la premiere fois dans l’huile essentielle des fruits de X. aethiopica.

Antibacterial activity of essential oils of edible spices, Ocimum canum and Xylopia aethiopica.

Abstract: UNLABELLED The essential oils of 2 Cameroonian spices, namely, Xylopia aethiopica and Ocimum canum, were chemically investigated and screened for their antibacterial activity. The essential oils were analyzed by means of GC, GC/MS, and NMR. X. aethiopica oil contained myrtenol (12%), a monoterpenoid in highest concentration. The essential oil of O. canum belonged to the known linalool (44%) rich chemotype. The results of the antibacterial screening against the food spoiling bacteria revealed a significant and broad spectrum of activity for these essential oils. The present material of X. aethiopica, which is having myrtenol in relatively higher concentration, has shown moderate antibacterial activity. The bioassay-guided fractionation of Ocimum canum oil through flash chromatography showed that minor compounds, namely, α-terpineol, chavicol, chavibetol, and trans-p-mentha-2,8-dien-ol, significantly contributed for the overall activity observed. Hence, these results evidenced the possible potential of the essential oil of O. canum as a suitable antibacterial for controlling food-borne pathogens whereas the X. aethiopica oil has moderate possibility. PRACTICAL APPLICATION There is a strong global demand for the microbe-free, safe, and healthy foods. In this study, we showed that the essential oil of O. canum (wild basil) can be used as antibacterial for food items. Also, we showed that a value addition in the antibacterial potential of O. canum oil can be done by processing the essential oil through flash chromatographic separations.

Effects of some anti-diabetic plants on the hepatic marker enzymes of diabetic rats

Abstract: This study was embarked upon in order to evaluate the effects of the chloroform extracts of the leaves of Psidium guajava, Anacardium occidentale and Eucalyptus globulus and fruits of Xylopia aethiopica on hepatic marker enzymes of diabetic rats. The degree of hepatic damage caused by diabetes mellitus and the effects of the extracts were assessed using standard methods for assaying the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). All the extracts significantly (p<0.05) decreased the activities of ALT, AST and ALP with that of the P. guajava being the most protective. In addition, the P. guajava extract exerted more hepatoprotection than glibenclamide in terms of the AST and ALP activities. In conclusion, the chloroform extracts of the leaves of A. occidentale, E. globulus and P. guajava as well as the fruits of X. aethiopica exhibited remarkable protective effects on alloxan-induced acute liver damage and thus, may be used for treatment of some liver-associated disorders. Key word: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Psidium guajava, Anacardium occidentale, Eucalyptus globulus, Xylopia aethiopica, chloroform extracts, diabetes mellitus.

Neuropharmacological effects of an ethanolic fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica and xylopic acid, a kaurene diterpene isolate, in mice.

Abstract: Background: Even though the central analgesic effects of Xylopia aethiopica (XAE) and xylopic acid (XA) have been reported, XAE and XA have however not been evaluated for their effects on other neurological functions. Objectives : To determine the effects of XAE and XA on spontaneous activity, neuromuscular function, convulsive threshold and sedation as well as their interaction with hepatic enzymes Methods: The activity meter, rotarod, PTZ-induced convulsion and pentobarbitone-induced sleep tests were used to evaluate spontaneous activity, neuromuscular function, convulsive threshold and sedation respectively in mice. Effects of hepatic enzyme inhibition and induction were estimated using duration of pentobarbitoneinduced sleep. Results: XAE and XA showed significant central nervous system depressant effects in pentobarbitone-induced hypnosis and spontaneous activity test. Both XAE and XA showed neuromuscular coordination impairment tendency above 300 mg/kg. Whereas XAE significantly increased seizure threshold at all doses tested, XA had no effect on PTZ-induced convulsion. XAE may induce hepatic enzymes at lower doses whereas XA showed a bidirectional effect by inhibiting hepatic enzymes at lower doses and inducing hepatic enzymes at higher doses. Both XAE and XA may however be metabolized by hepatic enzymes. Conclusion: Xylopic acid and the fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica have significant central nervous system depressant effects in mice

Effect of Xylopia aethiopica, Fiscus mucuso and Anthocleista vogelli extracts on some biochemical parameters following ethanol-induced toxicity.

Abstract: 23 The objective of the study was to comparatively verify the effects of aqueous extracts of three 24 plants on some biochemical parameters following ethanol administration with a view to 25 ascertaining the role of the extracts in ameliorating ethanol toxicity. 26 A total of forty rats were divided into eight groups (n=5). Group A were control rats; Group B 27 were administered with absolute ethanol; Group C were ethanol administered rats treated with 28 Xylopia aethiopica; Groups D were ethanol administered rats treated with Fiscus mucuso, Group 29 E were ethanol administered rats treated with Anthocleista vogelli; Group F were normal rats 30 administered orally with Xylopia aethiopica; Group G were normal rats administered orally with 31 Fiscus mucuso; Group H were normal rats administered orally with Anthocleista vogelli. At the 32 end of the experimental period, the animals were sacrificed and serum was obtained for total 33 protein, uric acid, creatinin, urea, Aspartate aminotrasferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase 34 (ALT) analysis using respective research kits. 35 The result showed that Xylopia aethiopica had protective effect on the kidney as compared with 36 Fiscus mucuso and Anthocleista vogelli treated rats. Also, The AST and ALT was lowered with 37 the start of Xylopia aethiopia treatment. The total protein, creatinin and urea were slightly 38 (p>0.05) affected with ethanol, an effect which was normalized with the start of extract 39 treatment. 40 It can be concluded that Xylopia aethiopica had a better reno-protective and hepatoprotective 41 effect than Anthocleista vogelli and Fiscus mucuso extract as evidenced in its role in normalizing 42 the negative influence of ethanol toxicity. 43

Performance, Antimicrobial Effect and Carcass Parameters of Finisher Broilers Given Xylopia aethiopica Dried Fruits (Grains of Selim) as Additive

Abstract: Abstract The effect of graded levels of grains of selim on the performance, gut microbial population and carcass characteristics of finisher broilers was investigated. Two hundred and four (204) 28 days old broiler chicks (Marshal breed) were randomly allotted to four treatments with each treatment having three replicates of 17 chicks each in a completely randomized design. Finely blended grains of selim was administered through drinking water on treatments 2, 3 and 4 at concentrations of 0.5, 0.7 and 0.9 g per litre while chicks on treatment 1 (control) received 1.0 g per 1.5 litre of antibiotics (Gendox). Chicks were fed ad libitum with isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets containing 20% crude protein and 3000 Kcal/kg metabolisable energy for four weeks. Results showed no significant (P > 0.05) differences among treatments in the final body weight, total weight gain, daily weight gain, total feed intake, daily feed intake and feed:gain ratio. There were differences in the microbial population of the gastro-intestinal tract with colony count decreasing as the concentration of grains of selim increases. Carcass characteristics and organ weights were similar (P > 0.05) except for thigh and spleen weights, and large intestine lengths where differences (P < 0.05) exist. Mortality ranged from 8.47% - 13.47% across treatments. The results indicated that grains of selim have antimicrobial and anthelminthic properties, and promote growth in broiler chickens

Characterization of Essential Oils of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich for Afforestation of the Coastal Savanna at Pointe-Noire (Congo-Brazzaville)

Abstract: The essential oil from fruits, leaves and stem bark of Xylopia aethiopica of Congo-Brazzaville was obtained by steam distillation and analyzed by CG on two columns with different polarities (polar and apolar) and by CG/SM. The essential oil from fruits was characterized by the presence of three constituents at levels of at least 10%. These were pinenes (alpha-+beta-) as major components (17%), 1, 8-cineole (13.3%) and sabinene (10%), all monoterpene hydrocarbons. The three most abundant oxygenated monoterpenes were trans-pinocarveol (8.2%), myrtenal (6.3%) and myrtenol (6.2%). The essential oil from leaves was characterized by the presence of pinenes (alpha-+beta-) as major components (39-60%). Sesquiterpenes came second, with caryophyllene the most abundant (6-18%). Oil from stem bark was made up of pinenes (27-57%), with beta-cubebene (11-14%) in second position and transpinocarveol (6%) and myrtenal (5%) jointly in third position.

Antimicrobial activitiy of the fruits essential oil of Xylopia aethiopica (Dun.) A. Rich

Abstract: The antimicrobial activity of the fruits essential oil of Xylopia aethiopica (family: Annonaceae) was tested against six standard bacteria: Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and against two standard fungi namely Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans using the Agar plate diffusion method. The fruits essential oil of Xylopia aethiopica dissolved in methanol (1:10) showed high activity (21 mm) against the Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It also showed moderate activity (16 mm) against the Gram positive Bacillus subtilis and against the Gram negative E. coli (15 mm), K. pneumoniae (17 mm) and P. vulgaris (16 mm). The essential oil also showed high activity (19 mm) against A. niger and (21 mm) against C. albicans. The fruits oil was also tested against sixty clinical isolates, collected randomly from Khartoum and Soba Hospitals. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the essential oil against standard bacteria were determined using the agar diffusion method. The antimicrobial activity of the reference drugs were determined against the standard organisms and compared with the antimicrobial activity of the tested oil.

Phytochemical, Nutrient Composition and Serum Lipid Lowering Effect of Xylopia aethiopica Fruit

Abstract: Aims: The present study was carried out to evaluate the effects of Xylopia aethiopica on serum lipids in fed rats. Also the quantitative phytochemical and nutrient composition

Assessment of the nutritional qualities of ten botanicals used in pregnancy and child delivery in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract: Ten botanicals used in pregnancy and child delivery by traditional maternity experts in Ibadan were analysed for their nutrient and phytochemical constituents to provide scientific insight into their therapeutic uses. The nutrient and phytochemical analyses of powdered plant samples were done using standard methods. The plants contained phosphorus, calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc in varied quantity. Eleusine indica (165.0mg/100g) was highest in calcium content and Croton zambesicus (40.0mg/100g) had the least. Iron content was 9.7mg/100g in E. indica and Uraria picta had 2.7mg/100g. The protein content of plant samples varied between 13.95% and 18.30%, the highest (18.30%) being in Phyllantus niruri and Clerodendrum volubile (13.95%) the least. The carbohydrate value ranged between 45.75% ( U. picta ) and 52.60% ( C. volubile ). Crude fibre was 17.80% in Xylopia aethiopica and C . volubile contained 13.50%. All plants contained alkaloids, cerotenoids, flavonoids, saponins and steroids. The plants have significant nutritional properties in addition to phytochemical constituents. The nutrients could support the increased energy and nutritional requirements in pregnancy, prevent malnutrition and supplement the phytochemicals in therapeutic activities. Toxicological studies of the plants would confirm their safety in administration.

Effectiveness of Duration of Storage and Phytochemicals in the Management of Seed-Borne Mycoflora of Stored Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.)Walp) Seeds

Abstract: Piper guineense, Monodora myristica and Xylopia aethiopica seeds extracts were evaluated in the laboratory for their effects on the incidence of the seed-borne mycoflora of cowpea (Var. IAR-48) and germination of the treated seeds. The cowpea seeds were stored for 0-3 months in air-tight containers inside dark cupboards in the laboratory. On the last day of each storage period, the seeds were coated with thin films of the different plant extract powders and thereafter, they were plated and incubated at 27 o C for 5 days in Petri dishes containing moistened filter papers. The experiment was a 4 x 5 factorial laid out in completely randomized design (CRD). The fungal organisms isolated from the incubated seeds were Fusarium sp., Mucor sp., Aspergillus spp., Colletotrichum sp., and Curvularia sp. All the extracts with the exception of X. aethiopica were significantly (p<0.05) superior to benlatein reducing the incidence of the seed-borne fungi associated with the cowpea seeds, however the germination of the treated seeds was highest in Piper guineense dressed seeds (21.30%). In the overall, the mean incidence of the seed-borne mycoflora of the treated cowpea seeds decreased as storage period increased while germination also decreased with increasing storage period. Hence, these plants extract powders especially Piper guineense could be used in IDM programmes, for seed-dressing of cowpea for increased productivity.

Combined analysis of Xylopia aethiopica trunk bark oil by chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques

Abstract: The chemical composition of four oil samples of Xylopia aethiopica isolated from trunk bark harvested in three Ivoirian forests was investigated by chromatographic (GC with retention indices) and spectroscopic techniques (MS, 13C NMR). Thirty compounds accounting for 90.2-98.2% of the oil have been identified. X. aethiopica stem bark produced a monoterpene-rich essential oil, whose composition was dominated by βpinene (37.0-61.6%) and α-pinene (13.0-19.3%). Two samples out of four contained also 3,3-dimethyl-1vinylcyclohexene (up to 6.4%) and 4,4-dimethyl-2-vinylcyclohexene (up to 12.7%).

Anti-oxidative potentials of some medicinal plants on lipid peroxidation in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Abstract: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia and if not properly controlled, culminates in increased oxidative stress and decrease in anti-oxidant levels. The leaves of Psidium guajava, Anacardium occidentale, Eucalyptus globulus and fruits of Xylopia aethiopica are used in the management of diabetes mellitus and thus, their anti-oxidative effects in alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus in Wister albino rats were investigated using standard methods. The administration of P. guajava, A. occidentale, E. globulus leaf and X. aethiopica fruit extracts caused significant (p 0.05) different from those of the glibenclamide groups, with others better increased than the glibenclamide groups. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was significantly (p<0.05) reduced in all the groups except the diabetic-untreated group that showed a marked increase attesting to the fact that peroxidative activity occurred after the induction of diabetes mellitus. In conclusion, the above plants demonstrated anti-oxidative effects and therefore, may be used in the amelioration of disorders associated with oxidative stress. Key words: Diabetes mellitus, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione.

Histological Effects of Xylopia aethiopica on the Kidney of Adult Wistar Rats

Abstract: This study investigates the effect of Xylopia aethiopica leaves on the histology of the kidney. 24 growing rats were used. They were divided into four groups: A (n = 6) as control and B (n = 6), C (n = 6) and D (n = 6) as tests. Group A received normal feed and distilled water only, while B, C and D, received daily doses of 1.2g, 3.0g, and 6.0g / kg body weight of Xylopia aethiopica leaves respectively, for 21 days. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed under light chloroform anesthesia to harvest the kidney for histological studies. The kidney was excised, fixed in 10% formal saline and processed for light microscopy using HE hence the need for further studies.Keywords: Xylopia aethiopica, Kidney, Histology, Plants

Xylopia aethiopica fruit extract lowers uric acid levels in wistar albino rats

Abstract: The effect of aqueous fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica on bile, serum and fecal uric acid levels as well as bile secretion and cholesterol (LDL, VLDL, HDL and triglycerides) were studied in wistar albino rats. Thirty (30) wistar albino rats were divided into three groups of ten (10) rats each after an acclimatization period of seven (7) days. The control group received normal rat chow and water freely. The two test group's ii and iii received daily oral administration of 100mg/kg b.w and 200mg/kg b.w/day respectively of the fruit extract for 28 days, water and standard feed given ad libitum. At the end of the experimental period, bile, serum and feces from the three groups were analyzed for bilirubin and uric acid. Bile flow rate (ml/h) was significantly (p<0.05) lower in the test groups when compared with control. Total and unconjugated bile bilirubin in group ii were significantly (p<0.001) lower than control, while total, conjugated and unconjugated bile bilirubin in group iii was significantly (p<0.001) higher when compared with control. In the serum, total, conjugated and unconjugated biliribin was significantly (p<0.05, 0.001) higher in the group iii when compared with the control. Serum and fecal uric acid levels in the test groups were significantly (p<0.001) lower than in their control. The plasma cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides were significantly decreased in group i while the extract significant increased plasma triglyceride, VLDL but increased plasma LDL and HDL. It appears that low and high doses of aqueous fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica caused the lowering of uric acid levels in serum and feces, and this might be a panacea to arthritis and gout , atherosclerosis, coronary heart diseases and other cardiovascular related disorders.

Effects of Xylopia aethiopica and Piper guineense on the Lipid Profiles and Mineral Concentrations of Male, Female, Pregnant and Lactating Albino Rats

Abstract: Two hundred and eighty-eight albino rats of wistar strain were used to evaluate the effects of Xylopia aethiopica and Piper guineense seeds on the lipid profiles and mineral concentrations using standard methods. Male, female, pregnant and lactating rats were the different status of rats used in the study. Results on lipid profiles showed that Xylopia aethiopica and Piper guineense seeds significantly (p<0.05) affected the HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol all the status of rats when compared to their controls. Cholesterol levels in rats placed on Piper guineense were significantly (p<0.05) affected against their controls whereas cholesterol levels in rats placed on Xylopia aethiopica were significantly (p<0.05) affected in pregnant and lactating rats against their controls. Sodium ion levels were significantly (p<0.05) affected in female rats placed on Piper guineense while calcium and chloride ions were significantly (p<0.05) affected by the study seeds in pregnant and lactating rats. This study has shown the effects of Xylopia aethiopica and Piper guineense on the lipid profiles and mineral concentrations of male, female, pregnant and lactating albino rats.

Effects of Dietary Xylopia aethiopica on Hematological Parameters and Plasma Lipids in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract: The effects of dietary intake of whole fruits of Xylopia aethiopica on blood parameters were studied. The PVC, Hb, MCV, MCHC, RBC, WBC, platelets, ESR, PT, APTT, cholesterol and triglyceride were estimated using standard methods. The fruits demonstrated significant increases (p<0.05) in Hb concentration, PCV, MCV and RBC counts, and significant decreases (p<0.05) in ESR and total cholesterol in the male Wistar rats. It is concluded that the whole fruits of Xylopia aethiopica exhibited positive effects on blood cell indices and properties, probably by virtue of its rich iron content, and that its reduction in serum total cholesterol is a welcome development as an antihyperlipidemia against the cardiovascular risk factors associated with elevated blood cholesterol levels. Key words: Xylopia aethiopica , hematological parameters, Lipid profile, Wistar rats

The Use of Three Edible Oils in the Management of Caryedon serratus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Bruchidea) Infesting Stored Groundnut Seed Pods in Lafia, Nigeria.

Abstract: Three edible plant product oils, West African Black Pepper (WABP) Piper guineense Schum and Thonn, Clove, Syzgium aromaticum (L.) Merril and Percy, Ethiopian pepper oil, Xylopia aethiopica (Dum) A. Rich, were studied for their effectiveness in the control and management of the Caryedon serratus Olivier. The oil was used at different dosage rates of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/70 g of unshelled groundnut pods against the groundnut bruchid C. serratus. The experiment was carried out as treatment before infestation (TBI) in the laboratory. The entire plant product oil significantly (P<0.05) reduced oviposition by C. serratus when compared with oviposition in the control treatments. Clove and WABP oil at the highest dosage rate completely reduced oviposition and hence deterred adult emergence at the F1 generation respectively while Clove oil deterred adult emergence of the F2 generation at the dosage rates of 1.5 and 2.0mg and WABP oil also completely deterred F2 adult emergence at the dosage rates of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0mg respectively. The potential effectiveness of all the three edible plant product oils implies that stored unshelled groundnut pods could be adequately protected against Caryedon serratus, thus reducing their infestation and damage on groundnut.

Comparative effects of some medicinal plants on blood glucose concentration and lipid levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Abstract: The comparative effects of the chloroform extracts of the leaves of P sidium guajava (Myrtaceae), Anacardium occidentale (Anacardiaceae) and Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae) and fruits of Xylopia aethiopica (Annonaceae) on blood glucose concentration and lipid levels of diabetic rats were investigated using standard methods. The results show 74, 82 and 83% reductions in the blood glucose concentrations upon the administration of A. occidentale (100 mg/kg body weight), E. globulu s (100 mg/kg body weight) and X. aethiopica (250 mg/kg body weight) extracts respectively as from the 10th hour of treatments in relation to the 74 and 69% reductions in glibenclamide and diabetic untreated groups respectively while the synergic treatment group [ A. occidentale + E. globulus (100 mg/kg body weight)] showed 83% decrease in the blood glucose concentration as from the 10th hour upon the administration of the combined extracts when compared with the values obtained for the glibenclamide and diabetic untreated groups. P. guajava extract had the greatest significant (p<0.05) reduction in the total cholesterol concentration of the treated rats. P. guajava + X. aethiopica treatment group in a similar manner showed the most significant (p<0.05) decrease in the triglyceride concentration of the treated rats. Hence, the individual performances of these extracts on blood glucose concentration and blood lipids confirm their ability to reduce blood glucose and diabetic complications. Key words : Chloroform extract, Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae), A nacardium occidentale (Anacardiaceae), Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae), Xylopia aethiopica (Annonaceae).

Phytochemical Screening and Biochemical Effects of Aqueous Seed Extract of Xylopiaaethiopica (Uda) on SelectedHaematological Indices in Male Wistar Albino Rats

Abstract: The biochemical effects of aqueous seed extract of Xylopia aethiopica (uda) were determined on selected haematological indices of male Wistar albino rats using standard methods. Twenty five adult male rats were selected according to their weights and were divided into five groups designated A,B,C,D and E of five animals per group. Group A (control) received distilled water (1.0mL/kg body weight) whereas Groups B,C,D and E organisms were treated with 1.0mg/kg body weight, 2.0mg/kg body weight, 3.0mg/kg body weight and 4.0mg/kg body weight of extract respectively. The administration of the extract was carried out twice daily for 14 days after which the animals were anaesthesized and blood samples were collected 24 hours after the last administration through cardiac puncture and haematological studies carried out. The result revealed highest values of packed cell volume and invariably highest haemoglobin concentration (Hb) in Group E animals compared to the other groups. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of volatile oils, tannins, flavonoids and saponins while phytosterols, glycosides while alkaloids were absent. From the findings in this prospective study, Xylopia aethiopica seed extract has useful pharmacological bioactive compounds and as such could be used as tonic in traditional medicine and as immune booster.

Effect of Methanolic Extract of Xylopia aethiopica Fruits on Cytoprotection in Cold Stress - Induced Gastric Ulcer in Albino Wistar Rats.

Abstract: Following the wide spread consumption of fruits of Xylopia aethiopica in Nigeria, this study seeks to examine the effects of the fruit on gastric ulcer. Twelve male albino wistar rats weighting 150 - 200 g were randomly assigned one of two groups (n = 6). After 7 days of acclimatization, the test group was administered methanolic extract of Xylopia aethiopica at a daily oral dose of 10 mg/100g body weight for 14 days. All animals had access to food and water ad libitum. Animals were sacrificed and gastric acid secretion, ulcer score and adherent mucus was determined using standard methods. Histamine, an acid secretagogue and cimetidine, a blocker were used to aggravate and reduce acid secretion respectively. The mean basal gastric acid output was significantly (P<0.05) lower in the test group compared with control. After administration of histamine, the mean gastric acid output was significantly (P<0.001) lower in the test group compared with control. There was no significant difference in gastric acid output in the different groups after cimetidine administration. The mean ulcer score was significantly (P<0.001) lower in the test group compared with control. The mean gastric mucus output was significantly (P<0.01) lower in the test group compared with control. Fruit extract of xylopia aethiopica may be beneficial in treating gastric ulcers, since it reduces gastric acid secretion and increases gastric mucous output.

Evaluating the Effects of Gamma Irradiation and Storage Period on the Phytochemical Stability of Some Selected Spices on the Ghanaian Market

Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of gamma irradiation treatment and storage period on the phytochemical stability of some spices ( Eugenia caryophyllata , Xylopia aethiopica and Aframomum melegueta ) on the Ghanaian market. The radiation processing was carried out on dose levels of 0, 5, 10 and 20kGy over a period of four months. The irradiated and control samples were analyzed for Total flavonoids, Total Phenolics, Vitamin C and DPPH radical-scavenging activity for both aqueous and ethanolic extracts with the exception of Vitamin C. The study revealed that gamma irradiation did not compromise on the innate phytochemical stability of the spice samples; however storage period showed significant effects on the phytochemical indices of the spice

Collaborative effects of some anti-diabetic plants on the liver marker enzymes of diabetic rats

Abstract: The leaves of Psidium guajava, Anacardium occidentale, Eucalyptus globulus and fruits of Xylopia aethiopica are used in the management of diabetes mellitus. The phytochemical constituents as well as the acute toxicity of the combined chloroform extracts (A. occidentale + E. globulus and P. guajava + X. aethiopica) and their effects (at graded doses of 100 and 250 mg/kg body weight each) on the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were therefore, assayed in diabetic and normal rats using standard methods. The phytochemical analyses of the four extracts showed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids and fats and oil in all of them. Each of the combined extract was found to be non-toxic even at a dose as high as 5000 mg/kg body weight. The combined extracts at the tested doses significantly (p<0.05) and dose-dependently decreased the activities of ALT, AST and ALP. The effects of the combined extracts (especially 250 mg/kg body weight of P. guajava + X. aethiopica) were better than that of the standard anti-diabetic drug [glibenclamide (5 mg/kg body weight)]. The results generally indicate that the combined chloroform extracts of the leaves of A. occidentale, E. globulus, P. guajava and fruits of X. aethiopica might be adopted for the management and/or amelioration of diabetes mellitus and its accompanying complications. Key words: Psidium guajava, Anacardium occidentale, Eucalyptus globules, Xylopia aethiopica, chloroform extracts.