Showing papers on "Xylopia aethiopica published in 2018"
TL;DR: The study revealed the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Nigerian X. aethiopica, the extract at 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg/b.wt did not provoke toxic effects to the animalsr liver and kidney; however, caution should be exercised when using as a prolonged oral remedy at high doses.
Abstract: Background: Xylopia aethiopica is highly reputed for its numerous medicinal properties. In the present study, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and toxicity profile of methanol seed extract of Nigerian X. aethiopica in rat were evaluated. Methods: Phytochemical compositions were evaluated using standard procedures. The antibacterial study was carried out using agar well diffusion method, while antioxidant activities were evaluated by DPPH and FRAP assay. Twenty-five rats (5 each) were given 0, 75, 150, 300 and 600 mg/kg bwt of the extract orally for 28 days. Results: The extract had total phenolic and total flavonoid contents of 15.98p0.03mg GAE/g and 2.29p0.02 mg/g CE respectively. The extract had IC50 values of 52.45p3.05 mg/mL and 73.45p3.89 mg/mL in DPPH and FRAP assay respectively. The E. coli showed the highest susceptibility (20.27p0.90mm) while P.naeuruginisa showed the least (15.08p0.20mm). The MIC ranged from 25-50 mg/mL while MBC ranged between 50mg/mL and 100 mg/mL. In comparison with the control rats, the levels of serum creatinine, bicarbonate total proteins, albumin, and ALP were significantly higher in rat dosed 600 mg/kg bwt while urea decreases in rat dose 300 and 600 mg/kg. However, serum concentration of ALT, AST, bilirubin, Na+, K+ and Cl- compared favorably (P>0.05) with control at all doses. Conclusion: The study revealed the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Nigerian X. aethiopica, the extract at 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg/b.wt did not provoke toxic effects to the animalsr liver and kidney; however, caution should be exercised when using as a prolonged oral remedy at high doses.
38 citations
TL;DR: This study establishes that xylopic acid has anti-inflammatory action in acute inflammation.
Abstract: Background Our earlier studies had given evidence of the traditional application of Xylopia aethiopica in the management of inflammation. The principal constituent obtained from its bio-fractionation is xylopic acid. It is a crystalline diterpene that belongs to the class of kauranes. This work sets out to investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of the xylopic acid isolated from the dried fruit of X. aethiopica. Methods A preliminary anti-inflammatory study, using the protein denaturation model, and in vivo anti-inflammatory assay were employed in the investigation of acute inflammation. The modulation of the effect of the pro-inflammatory markers histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, and prostaglandin E2 by xylopic acid was investigated by in vivo mice paw oedema models. Results Xylopic acid showed a concentration-dependent inhibition of albumen denaturation with an IC50 of 15.55 μg mL-1. Xylopic acid (10, 30, 100 mg kg-1) inhibited the maximal oedema and the average paw thickness (oedema) over the period of each study considerably for all phlogistic agents employed (i.e. carrageenan, histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, and prostaglandin E2) in the inflammation induction for both prophylactic and therapeutic protocols. Conclusion This study establishes that xylopic acid has anti-inflammatory action in acute inflammation.
24 citations
TL;DR: The results obtained indicate that the richness in phytochemical element is a function of the species, and no drugs is at same time rich in free anthracenics, steroids and / or terpernoids, alkaloids, saponosides, and quinone derivatives.
Abstract: The most cited plant drugs during an ethnobotanical survey conducted for traditional healers and resource persons in southern Benin, used in the treatment of female infertility, were the subject of a phytochemical screening. It aims to determine the chemical substances that are conferred on the plants. These chemical substances are the pharmacological properties that are used for the treat of ailment recognized as being the origin of this disease. As a result, we studied the cytotoxicity of each herbal drug. In total, the organs of 17 plant species involved in this study are Aframomum melegueta, Allium cepa, Anchomanes deformants, Baphia nitida, Carissa spinarum, Elaeis guineensis, Garcinia cola, Kigelia africana, Monodora myristica, Morinda lucida, Musa sapientum, Olax subscorpioidea, Piper guineense, Pterocarpus erinaceus, Pupalia lappacea, Tetrapleura tetraptera, Xylopia aethiopica. The results obtained indicate that the richness in phytochemical element is a function of the species. Thus, Aframomum melegueta, Garcinia kola, Monodora myristica, Tetrapleura tetraptera, Xylopia aethiopica, and Anchomanes difformis are rich in catechin and/or gallic tannins, mucilages, reducing compounds, anthocyanins and/or leucoanthocyanins. On the other hand, no drugs is at same time rich in free anthracenics, steroids and / or terpernoids, alkaloids, saponosides, and quinone derivatives. The calculated CL50 values for each of the plant organs are all greater than 0.1 mg / ml. None of them is toxic. However, the non-toxicity of an herbal drug does not mean the same with the multispecies recipe in which it is used. Pharmacological tests of the various recipes used are also of significant importance.
14 citations
TL;DR: The observed hypolipidemic, antihypertensive and hepatoprotective effects exhibited by ETP suggest its potentials to prevent lipid abnormalities and associated risk factors, and this could be attributed to its phenolic constituents.
9 citations
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this paper, the phytochemicals present in the ethanolic extracts of the dried fruit of Xylopia aethiopica by GC-MS and HPLC-DAD analyses were identified.
Abstract: The study was aimed at identifying the phytochemicals present in the ethanolic extracts of the dried fruit of Xylopia aethiopica by GC-MS and HPLC-DAD analyses. A total of 39, 38 and 35 compounds were identified in the ethanol extract (EE), residual fraction (RF) and n-hexane fraction (HF) of ethanolic extracts of X. aethiopica, respectively by the GC-MS. The HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the presence ofxylopic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid and ellagic acid in all the samples while apigenin, kaempferol, rutin and quercetin were only present in EE and RF. The results postulated that the ethanolic extracts and the fractions of the extract contain various bioactive compounds which can be used for the treatment and management of various diseases.
8 citations
01 Jan 2018
TL;DR: In this article, chemical composition of Xylopia aethiopica fruits were evaluated using AOAC method and AAS for proximate and mineral analysis respectively, while phytochemical composition of the fruits was determined using GC-MS.
Abstract: Aim: Chemical composition of Xylopia aethiopica fruits were evaluated in this study. Materials and Methods: Xylopia aethiopica fruits were purchased as commonly sold at the new market in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. The fruits were sorted for healthy parts, air-dried and pulverized using manual blender. The AOAC method and AAS were used for proximate and mineral analysis respectively, while phytochemical composition of the fruits was determined using GC-MS. Results: The result revealed the presence of different phytochemicals which could possess several physiological and biological actions. The proximate analysis result showed Xylopia aethiopica fruit contain 38.72 ± 0.61% fibre, 26.08 ± 1.41% carbohydrates, 18.47 ± 0.05% protein, 6.73 ± 0.01% lipid, 6.02 ± 0.84% moisture and 4.00 ± 0.02% ash. Result of mineral analysis showed the abundance (ppm) of the selected mineral elements in Xylopia aethiopica fruit to be 12.773 ± 0.0010 calcium, 6.270 ± 0.1500 potassium, 5.297 ± 0.0005 magnesium, 4.030 ± 0.1200 sodium, 2.408 ± 0.0007 iron, 1.090 ± 0.2700 phosphorus, 0.422 ± 0.0002 zinc, 0.319 ± 0.0001 manganese, 0.226 ± 0.0004 chromium and 0.075 ± 0.0006 copper. Conclusion: The results revealed that Xylopia aethiopica fruits are not rich in the basic nutritional macromolecules, but contain appreciable amounts which could complement other food materials used in nutrition. The appreciable mineral content supports the use of Xylopia aethiopica fruits in pharmacology and nutrition which may aid the catalysis of many enzymes, as well as maintenance of homeostasis and immune function.
8 citations
01 Jun 2018
TL;DR: In this paper, the influence of different solvents with different polarities on the antioxidant properties of the fruit of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich was evaluated through the assessments of the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 1, 1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging potential.
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of different solvents with different polarities on the antioxidant properties of the fruit of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich. The phenolics and flavonoids in the extracts were quantified through colorimetric tests, while the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the extracts was evaluated through the assessments of the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 1, 1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging potential. The quantitative evaluations of the phytochemical compositions indicated that there were significant differences (p <0.05) in the amounts of phenolics and flavonoids in the extracts. The antioxidant activities measured by FRAP, TEAC and DPPH• scavenging methods revealed significant (p <0.05) differences amongst the extracts. Methanolic extract was found to have the highest TEAC and FRAP contents with the values of 244.12±21.76mg/100g and 304.78±5.71mg/100g respectively and lowest IC50 value in the results obtained from DPPH• scavenging assay (64.33±2.63µg/ml). The results showed that methanol could be an appropriate extraction solvent for phytomedicines from X. aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich that could be helpful in the treatment and management of free-radical-associated oxidative damage.
7 citations
01 Jan 2018
TL;DR: The plant kingdom is believed to hold many new drug templates; hence, the continued investigation into ethno-medicinal plants is thought to be as effective as conventional drugs.
Abstract: Plants have been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history in different cultures of the world (1). The World Health Organization (WHO) gave a list of about 21,000 plants used for medicinal purposes around the world (21). Plants have the ability to synthesize a wide variety of chemical compounds that possess pharmacological properties and defend against attack from predators such as insects, fungi and herbivorous animals (25,40). About 12,000 of such compounds, representing less than 10 % of the total, have been isolated. These compounds have been found to exert their effects on the human body through mechanisms that are similar to those already established in conventional drugs revealing that herbal medicines may be as effective as the latter (25,41). Furthermore, the plant kingdom is believed to hold many new drug templates; hence, the continued investigation into ethno-medicinal plants (22).
6 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a combination of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the bioactive compounds in methanol extract of Xylopia aethiopica fruits.
Abstract: The bioactive compounds in methanol extract of Xylopia aethiopica fruits were determined using a combination of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The compound identification was based on the molecular structure, molecular mass and calculated fragments. Interpretation on mass spectrum of GC-MS analyzer (Hewlett Packard GC-MS system) was done using the database of National Institute Standard and Technology (NIST). The results showed different peaks representing the presence of about 58 bioactive compounds which are mainly carboxylic acids, esters, phenolic compounds and fatty acids. The most abundant bioactive compounds detected were 2,4,6-octatriene (2.74%), cyclohexanemethanol (2.57%), kaurene (3.59%), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (5.63%), 1,6-cyclodecadiene (10.81%), terpineol (3.22%), cyclohexene (3.32%), copaene (3.04%), 1,6-cyclodecadiene (5.53%), 1-hexadecyne (5.63%) and silane (4.63%). The presence of these bioactive components suggests that the extract is of great pharmaceutical value.
5 citations
TL;DR: Quantitative analysis of the plant products revealed the presence of the active phytochemicals in various proportions, which may have caused the mortality of the pest in question on sweet potato in post-harvest storage at a small scale in Calabar, Nigeria.
Abstract: Biological assays were carried out to determine the effectiveness of powders of three locally available plants, Dennettia tripetala (G. Backer), Xylopia aethiopica (A. Rich) and Aframomum melegueta (K. Schum), for the control of Cylas puncticollis a sweet potato weevil. Powders of the leaves and fruits of each plant were separately applied at concentrations of 1, 3 and 5% (w/w for powders) for biological assays. This was laid out in a completely randomised design with each treatment replicated four times. Results revealed that 3 and 5%powders of the three test plants led to significantly (P < 0.05) higher mortality of C. puncticollis as compared to 1 % (powders) and the control (0.0 for powder). The fruit powders were more effective than leaves. The effectiveness of these plant products on C. puncticollis was directly proportional to concentration, with higher concentration providing greater protection of the tubers. Powders of A. melegueta and X. aethiopica fruits at 5 % applications caused the highest significant mortality of C. puncticollis after 96 h.Adult emergence was also significantly higher in the control than in treated tubers with A. melegueta giving the lowest number of emerged adults. Quantitative analysis of the plant products revealed the presence of the active phytochemicals (alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, carotenoids and phenols) in various proportions, which may have caused the mortality of the pest in question on sweet potato in post-harvest storage at a small scale in Calabar, Nigeria.
4 citations
01 Jan 2018
TL;DR: The aim of this book chapter reveals that fruit is considered as one of the important dietary ingredients that has a vital significant role to control and to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Abstract: Fruits have important bioactive and dietary components ingredients of our everyday life that plays a major role to cure diseases. Inadequate intake of antioxidant and improved reactive oxygen species is associated with diabetes mellitus. Many of the components were proved to be succeeding to treat several chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular, obesity, and diabetes. Fruits which have listed here have dietary fiber which reduces diabetes and cardiac and other diseases also. Fruits like Momordica cymbalaria, Pongamia pinnata, Diospyros peregrina, Xylopia aethiopica, Ficus deltoidea, Prunus avium, Trapa natans, Terminalia pallida and Punica granatum. The fruit aqueous extract of Momordica cymbalaria exposed significant antihyperlipidemic as well as antihyperglycemic administered orally at 0.5 g/kg for six weeks by alloxan-induced diabetic rats. In Pongamia pinnata fruits, compounds called pongamal and karanjin was administered using streptozotocin diabetic rats which decreases the blood glucose level at the dosage of 50 mg/kg for 11.7 and 12.8%, 20.7% at 100 mg/kg individually post oral administration of six hours. An edible fruit of Diospyros peregrina streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetes was achieved in aqueous extract decreases the blood glucose level at the dosage of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight for twenty-eight days. Xylopia aethiopica acetone fraction of ethanol extract was investigated for type 2 diabetes. Streptozotocin was induced by single intraperitoneal injection and animals were treated orally at the dosage of 150 or 300 mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks reduces blood glucose level. Ficus deltoidea fruit was carried out with crude aqueous extract and fractions were estimated for sugars, phenol, protein and flavonoid content. Antidiabetic activity was carried out in water fraction using alpha-glucosidase assay reveals the highest amount of protein 73.33 ± 4.99 μg/mg. Ethanol extract (200 mg/kg) of Prunus avium fruit was administered orally by single intraperitoneal injection using alloxan induced (120 mg/kg) rats which decrease blood glucose level. Trapa natans fruit peel of methanol extract was evaluated for antidiabetic activity by streptozotocin (100 and 200 mg/ kg body weight) induced a diabetic rat which decreases blood glucose level. Terminalia pallida ethanol fruit extract was given intraperitoneal injection using alloxan (150 mg/kg body weight) monohydrate induced for diabetic rats model. Blood glucose levels were significant to at the dosage of 0.5 g/kg body weight. The aqueous ethanol extract of Punica granatum juice sugar for diabetic rats for ten days. Significantly reduces the blood sugar level, total peroxide level, and peritoneal macrophages. The aim of this book chapter reveals that fruit is considered as one of the important dietary ingredients. It has a vital significant role to control and to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Henceforth, encouraging adherence of mentioned fruits was considerable significance to public health.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this paper, the variability of the chemical composition of essential oils of fruits of Xylopia aethiopica from southern Senegal was studied by using GC/FID and GC/MS to identify three major compounds: β-pinene, 1,8-cineole and αpinene in variable proportions.
Abstract: The objective of this work is to study the variability of the chemical composition of essential oils of fruits of Xylopia aethiopica from southern Senegal. Essential oils were obtained by steam distillation on the fresh (F), shade-dried (DSh) and sun-dried (DS) fruits of Xylopia aethiopica. Analyzes of these essential oils carried out by GC/FID and GC/MS revealed three major compounds: β-pinene, 1,8-cineole and αpinene in variable proportions. β-Pinene was identified for 29.9% (F), 15.1 to 31.2% (DSh) and 27.0 to 30.7% (SS), 1,8-cineole represented 14.7% (F), 14.5 to 15.1% (DSh) and 17.4 to 21.2% (SS) and αpinene constituted 10.0% (F) 3.7 to 11,0% (DSh) and 6.6 to 10.0% (DS).
TL;DR: A simple HPLC/UV analytical method is developed that can be reproduced in poor-resource settings where advanced analytical detection techniques such as HPLC-MS are unavailable and validated for linearity, limits of detection and quantification, precision and accuracy.
Abstract: Dunal) A. Rich, (herein called XYA), family Annonaceae, commonly known as “Guinea pepper”, “Ethiopian pepper” or “Negro pepper”, are widely used in traditional African medicines to treat a wide array of diseases including malaria, fungal infections, rheumatism, arthritis, etc. Scientific investigations have ascribed the following activities to the fruits of XYA; anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiplasmodial, analgesic, anti-nociceptive, anti-proliferative, spermatogenic and neuropharmacological effects. The main active principle reported is xylopic acid (XA), a kaurene diterpene. This study aimed to develop and validate a simple HPLC/UV (high performance liquid chromatography – ultraviolet detection) analytical method for the quantification of XA that can be reproduced in poor-resource settings where advanced analytical detection techniques such as HPLC-MS are unavailable.
Materials and Methods: Thus in this study, a simple C18 solid-phase extraction (SPE) column-pretreatment ─ HPLC/UV analytical procedure was developed for the quantification of XA in the dried fruits of XYA from four African countries, Benin, Cameroon, Ghana and Nigeria. The samples of XYA from the four countries were assessed for similarities using chromatographic fingerprinting.
Results: The HPLC method was validated for linearity, limits of detection and quantification, precision and accuracy. The samples of XYA from Cameroon were found to have the highest average content of XA while those from Benin had the lowest average content of XA.
Conclusion: Using the chromatographic fingerprint evaluation, the similarities of the samples from the four countries to the reference chromatogram was in the order: Benin > Cameroon > Nigeria > Ghana.
Key words: Xylopia aethiopica, xylopic acid, C18
TL;DR: The present study shows that Xylopia aethiopica and Monodora myristica can be used to substitute for Piper nigrum and Myritica fragrans respectively, in the manufacture of fresh pork sausages without affecting the sensory attributes and overall liking of the product.
Abstract: Xylopia aethiopica (African pepper) and Monodora myristica (African nutmeg) are used as spices in Ghanaian local dishes and as traditional medicine. The objective of this study was to substitute two spices in “normal” fresh pork sausage formulation with selected local spices and evaluate their effect on sensorycharacteristics of the product. A 4x4 factorial design was used with 4 spice treatments (Control – Syzygium Gaertner (clove), Allium cepa (onion), Piper nigrum (white pepper) and Myristica fragrans (nutmeg); African pepper (AP) substituted for white pepper; African nutmeg (AN) substituted for nut meg (Myristica fragrans); and combination of AP and AN (AP*AN) at 4 inclusion levels (0%, 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.15%). AP and AN were obtained from the local market in Accra. They were cleaned, dried and blended. The spices were irradiated with dose of 10KGY to reduce microbial load. The experiment had three replicates each replicate was made up of lb treatments. Six trained panellists evaluated the sausages using a 15 cm continuous scale on six sensory parameters (crumbliness, juiciness, palatability, saltiness, off flavour and overall liking), the formulated sausages with the selected local spices at varying concentrations did not differ (p ˃ 0.05) from the control product in all the sensory parameters. However, AP treated sausage at 0.15% was overall rated high. The present study shows that Xylopia aethiopica and Monodora myristica can be used to substitute for Piper nigrum and Myritica fragrans respectively, in the manufacture of fresh pork sausages without affecting the sensory attributes and overall liking of the product.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of solvent partitioning on the phyto-constituents, in vitro antioxidative activities and immunomodulatory potentials of Xylopia aethiopica fruit extracts (crude ethanolic extract, aqueous and n-hexane partitioned extracts).
Abstract: Background: Recently, there is increased interest in the scientific investigations of botanicals with immunomodulatory capabilities due to the alleged efficacy in achieving quality health. Xylopia aethiopica fruit is a popular recipe employed in brewing of soup/broth in the southern region of Nigeria and some parts of Africa. Objective: This study determined the effect of solvent partitioning on the phyto-constituents, in vitro antioxidative activities and immunomodulatory potentials of Xylopia aethiopica fruit extracts (crude ethanolic extract, aqueous and n-hexane partitioned extracts). Materials and methods: The phyto-constituents in the extracts were determined by colorimetric test, while in vitro antioxidant activities were assessed by the radical scavenging abilities, metal ion chelating potential and reducing potential of the extracts and the immunomodulatory potentials were evaluated by the carbon clearance capability, avidity of neutrophil, inhibition of cyclophosphamide induced neutropenia and zinc sulphate turbidity test. The extracts were tested at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight and levamisole was used as the standard drug. Results: Various phyto-constituents such as and terpenoids indicated marked reactions and recorded increases (p<0.05) in the crude ethanol extract than the partitioned extracts. Consequentially, the crude ethanol extract presented the least EC50 of the DPPH radical scavenging activity and metal ion chelating potential. In the same vein, the crude ethanol extract, as well as levamisole increased the adhesion of neutrophils in the blood to nylon fibre (p<0.05). The phagocytic index recorded increases (p<0.05) in the fruit extracts. Cyclophosphamide induced neutropenia was inhibited (p<0.05) by the standard drug and all the extracts of X. aethiopica. Conclusion: The results indicated that the crude ethanol extract exhibited most impressive antioxidant activity and also, improved immunoactivities than the levamisole and partitioned extracts. Therefore, the consumption of X. aethiopica fruit in soup/broth brewing, as well as alcoholic tincture is recommended for improved quality life. Keywords: Antioxidant activity, Immunomodulation, Improved quality life, Phyto-constituents, Phagocytic index, Xylopia aethiopica.
02 Oct 2018
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the changes in antioxidant status occurring in dried fruit of Xylopia aethiopica subject to cooking at different temperatures and found a significant heat-trend difference between the phenolic contents of the samples at the selected temperatures with the highest TPC recorded at 70°C.
Abstract: Most plant products undergo one or more different thermal processes before consumption despite the claims that cooking fruits and vegetables could have detrimental effects on the beneficial properties of the plants. This work investigated the changes in antioxidant status occurring in dried fruit of Xylopia aethiopica subjected to cooking at different temperatures. The analyses were performed on both raw and boiled samples to assess the total phenolic contents (TPCs) and the antioxidant potential through reduction of ferric chloride salt and bleaching of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and pairwise comparisons by Tukey-Kramer test at p < 0.05. There was a significant heat-trend difference between the phenolic contents of the samples at the selected temperatures with the highest TPC recorded at 70°C. Similarly, the ferric reducing potentials of the cooked samples were significantly different (p <0.05) from the raw. However, uncooked samples had significantly (p <0.05) higher percentage of DPPH radical scavenging activity compared to cooked samples. The overall effect of cooking the dried fruit of X. aethiopica was due to an elevation in total phenolics concentrations and reducing potentials of the aqueous infusions. However, boiling decreases the DPPH radical scavenging ability of the samples. Therefore, this study suggests an optimum cooking temperature of 70°C which could result in the highest retention of phenolic contents and ferric reducing potentials in the fruit of X. aethiopica and lowest appropriate temperature to conserve its intrinsic radical-scavenging activity in order to assure a higher quality food for the maintenance of human health. Moreover, losses in the phenolic contents and antioxidant potential should be considered when the procedural temperature during processing is unalterable.
TL;DR: The results suggest that Xylopia aethiopica may have the potentials of being developed into a male fertility enhancing drug.
Abstract: Objective: The sexual stimulatory effect of aqueous stem bark extract of Xylopia aethiopica which is commonly used traditionally for the treatment of fertility-related problems in males is reported in this work. Methods: The present study investigated the effect of 14 d oral administration of 1 ml/kg distilled water (control), 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg of body weight of the stem bark extract on some fertility parameters of the Swiss male rats. So, all the target organs (testis, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicle and prostate) were weighed. The sperm motility and sperm count in testis, epididymis and vas deferens were determined. Serum and tissue protein, as well as cholesterol, were evaluated. The serum testosterone level was also assessed. Results: The extract did not produced significant change in the mobility of sperm, the sperm count in vas deferens, the relative weight of body and accessory organs at all doses. The daily sperm production (DSP) and the weight of prostate significantly increased at a dose of 100 mg/kg (p<0.01) while the sperm count in cauda epididymis increased at a dose of 200 mg/kg. The testicular and serum cholesterol significantly increased (p<0.001) at the dose of 100 mg/kg whereas the testicular and serum proteins increased (p<0.001) at the dose of 200 mg/kg. The serum testosterone level increased following 14 d of treatment (p<0.01) at the dose of 100 mg/kg. Conclusion : The results suggest that Xylopia aethiopica may have the potentials of being developed into a male fertility enhancing drug.
Journal Article•
TL;DR: Results obtained from this study showed that there is no toxic effect on kidney function after feeding for a period of 28 days, therefore, fumigation of wooden structures for the storage of food or all types of domestic furniture made of wood susceptible to termites, M. subhyalinus with X. aethiopica and P. guineense powders and extracts at the tested concentrations may not be likely to cause oxidative liver and kidney damages.
Abstract: Termicidal toxicity of Xylopia aethiopica and Piper guineense seeds on termites, Macrotermes subhyalinus (Isoptera: Termitidae) and toxicological study on liver and kidney functions of albino rats were investigated in the Laboratory at a temperature of 28 ± 2°C and 75 ± 5% relative humidity. The parameter assessed were toxicity of X. aethiopica and P. guineense powders at a concentration of 3 g and extracts at concentrations of 1% - 5%. The toxicity was assessed in term of % mortality of termites. Toxicological studies involved the assay of liver and kidney functions in albino rats. The rats were divided into four groups (Groups A, B, C and D) of five animals each. Group A - Control rats fed with basal diet, Group B - rats fed with basal diet plus 1% plant seeds powder, Group C – rats fed diet supplemented with 2% plant seeds powder and Group D – rats fed diet supplemented with 4% plant seeds powder for 28 days. Plasma aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, urea and creatinine contents were determined using commercially available kits. The levels of these biochemical functions were also determined in the liver and kidney. The results obtained from this study showed that P. guineense and X. aethiopica methanoic extracts at 4% and 5% concentrations of treatment manifested acute biological activity as shown by high percentage mortality (90 - 100%) of termites within 1hour. The non-availability of Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) in the serum of animals fed with basal diet plus 1%, 2% and 4% of X. aethiopica and P. guineense powders in a significant values with the serum of animal fed with basal diet (control) is an indicator of no chemical assaults in the liver as well as normal Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activities in the liver of all experimental animals. With the evidence of normal urea and creatinine level in serum rats fed with basal diet (Control-Group A), 1% (Group B), 2% (Group C) and 4% (Group D), it means that there is no toxic effect on kidney function after feeding for a period of 28 days. Therefore, fumigation of wooden structures for the storage of food or all types of domestic furniture made of wood susceptible to termites, M. subhyalinus with X. aethiopica and P. guineense powders and extracts at the tested concentrations may not be likely to cause oxidative liver and kidney damages.
Dissertation•
01 Jul 2018
TL;DR: In this article, the amino acid and fatty acid profiles, phytochemical, proximate, mineral, anti-nutrient and vitamin contents of X. aethiopica fruits were determined using standard methods.
Abstract: Mineral contents and amino acid and fatty acid profiles of Xylopia aethiopica fruits from Enugu State, Nigeria were evaluated in this study. The amino acid and fatty acid profiles, phytochemical, proximate, mineral, anti-nutrient and vitamin contents of X. aethiopica fruits were determined using standard methods. The proximate, vitamins, phytochemical, anti-nutrient of both the crude and methanol extract were determined while the mineral and amino acid profile were determined in the crude fruit powder while fatty acid profile was determined in the oil extract of the fruits. Results show that the predominant amino acids present include proline, alanine, norleucine, isoleucine, glycine, threonine, cysteine, methionine, and tryptophan. Also, the most abundant fatty acids include arachidonic acid, dihomoϒ-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, caproic acid, linoleic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid and myristic acid. The mineral contents of X. aethiopica fruits detected in high amount were calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium. Sodium, zinc and manganese were detected in lower amounts. However, lead, silicon, nickel and chromium were not detected. The result of the proximate analysis shows moisture, total protein, crude ash, total fat, crude fibre, and carbohydrate contents. Anthraquinone was not detected in both crude and methanol extract of the fruit. The concentration of flavonoids, steroids, anthocyanin and terpenoids were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in crude sample when compared with methanol extract. The levels of carotenoid and glycosides were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the methanol extract when compared with crude sample. Vitamins B1, B3, B6, B9, B12, C and E levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in crude extract when compared with methanol extract. However, vitamin A content was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in methanol extract when compared with crude extract. Results obtained showed that X. aethiopica fruits are rich in nutrients and that methanol extraction decreased the anti-nutrient contents of the fruits thereby increasing the bioavailability of the nutritive factors. However, the quantities of some of the nutritive factors were reduced after extraction
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe current methods for harvesting two important Liberian plant species (Griffonia simplicifolia and Xylopia aethiopica) and suggested alternative (proposed sustainable) technique and their impact on the population in two harvesting seasons.
Abstract: Traditional harvesting methods of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) are known to be destructive and/or wasteful that lead to reduction and sometimes depletion of the population and the biodiversity. Sustainable harvesting however is not only necessary for conservation of biodiversity, but also the livelihoods of many rural peoples in forest areas for their sustenance. Sustainable harvesting increasingly acknowledged as a conservation strategy can easily be employed for plants that require seeds harvest as product, such as Griffonia and Xylopia. The harvesting of these plant products requires a practical method and a change of behavior pattern towards sustainability. Change in behavior patterns with corresponding modifications in harvesting techniques can create a win-win strategy for harvesters and the biodiversity. The study describes current methods for harvesting two important Liberian plant species (Griffonia simplicifolia and Xylopia aethiopica) and suggested alternative (proposed sustainable) technique and their impact on the population in two harvesting seasons. In the first and second harvest seasons, using traditional methods, an average total of 34.6 kg of Xylopia and 22.7 kg of Griffonia pods were collected; while using alternative methods, an average total of 52.5 kg of Xylopia and 34.7kg of Griffonia pods were collected. Equally using the traditional method, an average total number of 87 trees of Xylopia and 85 vines of Griffonia were damaged, while an average total number of 12 trees of Xylopia and 10 vines of Griffonia were damaged using the ‘proposed sustainable’ method. Changes in behavior pattern of local collectors incorporating the ‘proposed sustainable’ alternative method of collection lead towards a win-win situation with added value of preservation.
TL;DR: Out of the two extraction methods employed, the ethanol extract was a more effective method and thus recommended and the phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed that alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoid and polyphenol were present in the extracts in moderate quantities.
Abstract: Stored product insects reduced the quantity, quality, nutritive value and viability of stored crops such as maize, sorghum, wheat and rice. These pests and many others threaten food security. The study investigated the efficacy of Xylopia aethiopica in the control of Sitophilus oryzae on stored rice. The extracts of this plant were made using ethanol and aqueous as solvent and prepared at the concentrations of 3, 6, 8 and 0 g. Zero gram is the untreated grain that served as the control. Five pairs of male and female each of a day old adult of S. oryzae were introduced into jars containing 20 g of rice each and were observed daily for 6 weeks for mortality, oviposition, developmental stages and natality. The phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed that alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoid and polyphenol which was moderately high and which exposes the active ingredient of the extracts. The phytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed that alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, reducing compounds and polyphenols were present in the extracts in moderate quantities. The proximate analysis of the grain revealed that the carbohydrate content (83.45±0.1) of Oryza sativa followed by moisture (7.33±0.1), the least nutrient of proximate analysis was seen in ash (1.00±0.00). Out of the two extraction methods employed, the ethanol extract was a more effective method and thus recommended.
Key words: Xylopia aethiopica, ethanolic and aqueous, Sitophilus oryzae, rice grain.
TL;DR: In this paper, air-dried and ground fruits of Xylopia aethiopica were extracted using ethanol and the recovered extract was partitioned to give chloroform, water, methanol and n-hexane fractions.
Abstract: Xylopia aethiopica commonly known as the West African pepper tree is consumed as food condiment and also used traditionally in the treatment of cough, bronchitis, dysentery and female sterility. Air-dried and ground fruits of Xylopia aethiopica were extracted using ethanol and the recovered extract was partitioned to give chloroform, water, methanol and n-hexane fractions. The five extracts were screened for antibacterial activity against strains of β-lactamase producing bacteria: Escherichia coli , Proteus sp., and Klebsiella pneumonia as well as cytotoxicity against brine shrimp larvae. The result of the antibacterial screening showed that all the extracts exhibited selective activity against Proteus sp., the interface-2 demonstrated the highest activity with diameter of zone of inhibition of 14mm at 1000μg/disc. On the other hand, methanolic extract showed high cytotoxic activity in the brine shrimp lethality bioassay with LC 50 value of 3.4μg/mland moderate antibacterial activity with diameter of zone of inhibition of 12mm at 1000μg/ml. Keywords: Xylopiaaethiopica ; Extracts; antibacterial activity; β-lactamase producing bacteria; cytotoxicity; brine shrimp lethality bioassay
Journal Article•
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of Xylopia aethiopica on Monocrosporium bembicoides isolated from powdered Soyabean samples were analyzed using spectrophotometer and gravimetric methods.
Abstract: Several incidences of antimycotic resistant have been reported and traced from the consumption of contaminated foods and their products. This study was carried out to determine the effects of Xylopia aethiopica on Monocrosporium bembicoides isolated from powdered Soyabean samples. A total of 120 powderd Soya bean sample were collected randomly from Uli community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State and screened for the presence of Monocrosporium bembicoides using spread plate technique. The isolates were subcultured and characterized using their macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. The seeds of Xylopia aethiopica was collected and screened for phytochemical constituents using spectrophotometer and gravimetric methods. The antifungal activity of the extract was carried out using agar well diffution technique. Tube dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Xylopia aethiopica seed extract. A total of 24 powdered Soyabean samples out of 120 samples were positive to Monocrosporium bembicoides , of which the organism was seen most in samples collected from location C (Eke Agbagba market). The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, cardiac glycosides, tannins, steroids and saponins. The extracts showed pronounced activity against the tested Monocrosporium bembicoides of which ethanolic extract significantly (p< 0.05) inhibited the organisms more than the aqueous extracts. The ethanolic extract and ketoconazole had similar MIC and MFC. This study has shown the occurrence of Monocrosporium bembicoides in the studied powdered Soyabean samples, and Xylopia aethiopica seed extracts showed pronounced activity against the organism, of which ethanolic extract was more pronounced. Keywords: Monocrosporium bembicoides, Xylopia aethiopica, Soyabean,Phytochemical, Antifungal Activity
01 Jul 2018
Journal Article•
TL;DR: The results of the zone of inhibition obtained showed that X. aethiopica EO inhibited the growth of all the pathogens in order of S. paratyphi, S. aureus, pneumonia, and fungal pathogens.
Abstract: Chemical composition of the essential oil obtained by hydro-distillation from the fruits of Xylopia aethiopica growing in Ondo State, Nigeria was analyzed by GC/MS. Toxicity using antifeedant and filter paper methods of the essential oils against Callosobrchus maculatus was carried out. The essential oil (EO) was also tested against ten pathogens among which are six bacterial (Escherichia coli, Salmonella paratyphi , Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella Pneumonia and Streptococcus pneumonia) and four fungal (Aspergillus niger, Aspergilus flavus , Candida tropicalis and Fusarium solani ). Twenty-three components were identified representing 94% of the total oil composition with β-pinene (31.41%), α-pinene (21.7%), 1,8-cineole (8.69%), Δ-3- carene (7.17%) and α-phellandrene (5.0%) as major components. Toxicity was found to be100% in anifeedant method and ranged between 80 and 100% in filter paper methods after 6 and 24 hours of application. The results of the zone of inhibition obtained showed that X. aethiopica EO inhibited the growth of all the pathogens in order of S. paratyphi (1.86 mm) > S. aureus (1.73 mm) > S. pneumonia (1.53 mm) > K. pneumonia (1.40 mm) > B. subtillis (1.23 mm) > E. coli (0.46 mm), respectively for bacterial pathogens and F. solani (1.93 mm) > A. niger (1.66 mm) > A. flavus (1.60 mm) > C. tropicalis (0.86 mm) for fungal pathogens. Keywords: Xylopia aethiopica, essential oil, Callosobrchus maculatus hydrodistilation, toxicity, pathogens