@article {1398, title = {Exploring the Role of Phytoconstituents for Endocrine Disorder: A Review}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {17}, year = {2025}, month = {April 2025}, pages = {402-410}, type = {Review Article }, chapter = {402}, abstract = {

The endocrine system consists of various glands responsible for secreting hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, reproduction, and other physiological processes. Disruptions in this system, termed endocrine disorders, are linked to numerous health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndromes. Moreover, the significance of factors such as life stage, gender and dietary habits in influencing health risks associated with endocrine disruption cannot be overstated. Synthetic medications for these conditions often have adverse side effects like hypoglycemia and heart complications, highlighting the need for alternative treatments. Herbal and natural remedies have shown promise in managing these disorders due to their lower toxicity and minimal side effects. Phytochemicals and poly-herbal therapies are emerging as effective strategies for addressing endocrine and metabolic disorders, influencing molecular targets like AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and Nuclear factor erythroid-2- related factor (Nrf2). Specific disorders such as diabetes, Addison{\textquoteright}s disease, and hyperthyroidism are characterized by hormone imbalances, with molecular mechanisms involving insulin resistance, cortisol dysregulation, and thyroid dysfunction. Additionally, the role of factors such as life stage, gender, and dietary habits in modulating endocrine disruption-associated health risks is crucial. Natural products, including flavonoids, catechins, resveratrol, and terpenes, are being explored for their therapeutic potential in regulating hormone levels and improving metabolic health.

}, keywords = {AMPK, Cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes, Endocrine system, Herbal medicine, Hormone imbalance, Metabolic disorders, Natural Products, Obesity, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.20252070}, author = {Shweta Bhandari and Rahul Trivedi and Vishal Garg and Ajay Saini and Manish Gupta and Ram Singh} } @article {1382, title = {Phytopharmacological Insights into Ricinus communis: A Comprehensive Overview}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {17}, year = {2025}, month = {April 2025}, pages = {348-357}, type = {Review Article }, chapter = {348}, abstract = {

Medicinal plants are used in the traditional medicinal system and in Ayurveda globally. Euphorbiaceae is a large family which contains more than 3000 species. Ricinus communis or castor bean plant is well-known plant of Ayurveda. The herbal and natural medicines are the cost-effective and they have lesser side effects than currently available medicines in the market. Ricinus communis has many phytoconstituents such as ricinine, ricin A, ricin B, ricin C, ricinoleic acid, Y-sitosterol, fucosterol, stigmasterol, ricinus agglutin etc. which are responsible for various pharmacological activities. Traditionally, it has various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant activity, antifertility activity, antiulcer activity, antidiabetic activity, antimicrobial activity, hepatoprotective activity, immunomodulatory activity, bone regeneration activity, cytotoxic activity, anti-inflammatory activity etc. They also exhibited free radical scavenging potential along with repellent properties. The main objective of this review is to reveal all updated information{\textquoteright}s like phytochemicals, pharmacological activities of Ricinus communis by scientific evidences.

}, keywords = {Herbal Medicines, Medicinal plants, Pharmacological activities, Phytochemicals, Ricinus communis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.20251940}, author = {Surya Nath Pandey and Prashant Kumar and Harishchandra Verma and Sumit Durgapal and Balwan Singh} } @article {1391, title = {Unearthing the Modulatory Operations of Phytochemicals: A Reliable Framework for Therapeutic Approaches}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {17}, year = {2025}, month = {April 2025}, pages = {370-379}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {370}, abstract = {

Phytochemicals in no small measure confer active roles in human survival as well as in the prevention of various diseases by their effortless ability to combat oxidative stress known to shorten life expectancy in humans. A number of these factors are well known to predispose an individual to ageing, senescence, microvascular and macrovascular diabetic complications, cardiovascular and neurological disorders. The incidence of cancer amelioration in this regard cannot be discountenanced. A vast array of identified factors that are deep rooted in the cause of diseases implicated in oxidative stress are but not limited to chemical and environmental contaminants in air, food and water while several lifestyle modifications including lack of exercise, smoking and dietary preferences are key factors implicated in disease developments. While we review the extant roles of fruits, vegetables, grains and seed oils as safe for consumption, owing to their astonishing medicinal attributes to counteract the menace of free oxidants in cells, the emphasis on plant-based diets especially the ones that contains phenolic acids and flavonoids with strong antioxidant capabilities cannot be more emphasized. Many of these therapeutic roles are possible by the excess mopping of reactive oxygen in the body thereby protecting cells from damage. The wondrous effects of these antioxidants in cells can be implied to reduce the risk of cardiovascular and neurological diseases such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, arterosclerosis, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s and long-term cancer.

}, keywords = {Cardiovascular, Flavonoids, Neurological disorders, Oxidative stress, Phenolic acids, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.20252043}, author = {Ayodeji Benjamin Akawa and Isaac Adekola Adu and Ibrahim Abayomi Yekini and Ilesanmi Kayode Fasuba and Oluranti Esther Olaiya} } @article {1302, title = {A Comprehensive Review on Ethnomedicinal Aspects, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Limonia acidissima Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2024}, month = {October 2024}, pages = {688-697}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Fruits and other parts of Limonia acidissima Linn. (Wood apple) is edible and used in different cuisines. In folk medicine, various plant parts are utilized to treat various ailments. In addition to being utilized as a folk remedy, the plant was also investigated for its medicinal value. The plant is considered important in Ayurvedic medicine and fruit, leaves, seeds, gum and bark of the plant have medicinal importance. The plant is investigated for different pharmacological properties in preclinical studies. Wood apples are also important for nutritional values. Several phenolic bioactive phytochemicals like kaempferol, catechins, proanthocyanidins, vanillic acid, syringic acid and coumaric acids are characterized in the plant parts. This paper provides an overview of the pharmacological and phytochemical properties of Limonia acidissima. This knowledge might help create new formulations or improve current goods by adding additional medicinal or nutritional value.

}, keywords = {Folk use, Limonia acidissima, Nutraceutical value, Pharmacological activity, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.4.80}, author = {Salema Khatun and Saikat Sen} } @article {1243, title = {Status of Tree Diversity in Digha, West Bengal, India with Special Reference to their Phytochemical Constituents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2024}, month = {April 2024}, pages = {347-356}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {347}, abstract = {

Background: Digha is a coastal area in the district of Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, India. The vegetation in this area is unstable, like many other coastal zones. Trees play an important role in this region to prevent soil erosion and act as a windbreak. Also, the local people here depend on trees for their livelihood. Objectives: The current study aims to enumerate the tree species growing along the Digha seashore with special reference to their IUCN status and phytochemical constituents. Materials and Methods: The study area was rigorously surveyed over a period of about 4 years to record the trees of the area. Standard literature and websites were followed to summarize IUCN status and chemical constituents of the documented trees. Results: A total of 65 tree species belonging to 59 genera, and under 28 families have been documented with Fabaceae contributing the most (14 species). Tectona grandis was the only endangered tree species among the plants recorded. Conclusion: Conservation strategies must be adopted by the Forest Department and other government organizations to protect the relevant tree species as well as this fragile biozone.

}, keywords = {Conservation., Digha, IUCN Red List, Phytochemicals, Trees}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.2.44}, author = {Arnab Bera and Achintya Kumar Samanta and Sauris Panda} } @article {1326, title = {Unlocking the Therapeutic Potential of Terpenoids: A Roadmap for Future Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2024}, month = {October 2024}, pages = {698-705}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {698}, abstract = {

The naturally produced plant-derived compounds, known as phytochemicals, are biologically effective and incorporated to reduce the risk of numerous human illnesses. The utilization of phytochemicals for traditional medicine or functional nutrition has likely existed for as long as human history itself. Plants may gather phytochemicals in a variety of sections, including the roots, seeds as well as leaves and fruits. Among all the phytochemicals class, terpenoids are renowned for its proven biological activities and found in enormous capacity in medicinal plants. Several studies report the use of terpenoids in a wide range of diseases and infections. Different classes of terpenoids showed a variety of biological activities in chronic disorders and autoimmune diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis and cancer. These classes of compounds are also used against cancer and infectious diseases. In the present study we mainly highlight the use of terpenoids in different diseases and its availability in nature as different class. The role of terpenoids in developing new medications and enhancing current treatment methods is significant. However, thorough and detailed research is still warranted to entirely recognize the pharmacological effects of several terpenoids.

}, keywords = {Phytochemicals, Secondary metabolites, Terpenes, Terpenoids}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.4.81}, author = {Sarika Sapan Parekh and Ghanshyam Ratilal Parmar and Divya Kanojiya and Sunil Bhaurao Baile and Rahul Trivedi and Foram Bhatt} } @article {1142, title = {Phytochemical Analysis and in vitro Antioxidant Potential of Aqueous and Ethanol Extracts of Irvingia gabonensis Stem Bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {363-372}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {363}, abstract = {

Background: Irvingia gabonensis extracts are documented to possess antidiabetic, hypocholesterolemic, and antioxidant activities. The phytochemical components of medicinal plants are responsible for their therapeutic properties, particularly those with antioxidant properties. Objectives: The quantitative phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant properties of the aqueous and ethanol extracts of I. gabonensis stem bark were assessed in this study. Materials and Methods: Standard techniques were used to measure the concentrations of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, and saponins in water and alcohol extracts of this plant. Total Antioxidant Power (TAP) and the extract{\textquoteright}s capacity to scavenge free radicals including superoxide, nitric oxide, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzoth iazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+), β-carotene, and hydrogen peroxide were also evaluated. The extracts{\textquoteright} Ferric-Reducing Potential (FRAP) was also assessed. Results: The alcohol extract had significantly (P \< 0.05) higher concentrations of all the phytochemicals measured as well as near significantly (P \<0.066) higher TAP in comparison to the aqueous extracts. In general, the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the ethanol extract surpassed that of the water extract. The ethanol extract had IC50 values that were comparable to or less than the reference standards for its ability to neutralize nitric oxide, H2O2, superoxide, and DPPH radicals. Conclusion: The outcomes of the quantitative phytochemical analysis and in vitro antioxidant effects of aqueous and ethanol extracts of I. gabonensis stem bark clearly show their potential as an excellent reservoir of bioactive compounds and scavengers of deleterious oxidants; properties that could be explored therapeutically.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Free radicals, in vitro., Irvingia gabonensis, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.039}, author = {Catherine Otitolaiye and Akhere Omonkhua and Kelly Oriakhi and Edward Okello and Iyere Onoagbe and Friday Okonofua} } @article {1136, title = {Revealing Anti-Microbial Potential of Traditional Siddha Formulation Pancha Karpa Chooranam against Infectious Pathogens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {399-404}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {399}, abstract = {

Background: Infectious diseases are considered to be the most significant threat to human health due to the fact that they are responsible for one-half of all deaths in tropical countries. The majority of the currently available antibiotics have significant drawbacks in terms of antimicrobial spectrum and side effects. Over usage of such antibiotics has contributed to the development of clinical resistance in formerly sensitive microorganisms. Siddha system of medicine offers interesting possibilities to combat drug{\textendash}resistant pathogens. Medicinal herbs constitute an essential component of Siddha preparations are known for its diverse range of biological activity. One such potential formulation that exists in the Siddha system is Pancha Karpa Chooranam (PKC) which comprises a unique blend of five (pancha) potential herbal ingredients. Materials and Methods: The main objective of the present investigation is to evaluate the anti-microbial efficacy of the formulation PKC using the disc diffusion method. Results: Results of the study clearly emphasise that the drug PKC exhibits significant antimicrobial activity against all the tested organisms. Potency was measured in terms of zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (15{\textendash}23 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (13{\textendash}19 mm), B. subtilis (12{\textendash}19 mm), Salmonella typhi (16{\textendash} 23 mm), and Candida albicans (17{\textendash}21 mm). It was concluded from the results of the present investigation that the Siddha formulation PKC reveals broad spectral anti-bacterial activity against both gramme-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, B. subtilis) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi) pathogens. Conclusion: Further, it was evident that the formulation advocates potential anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans represented by the maximal zone of inhibition which attributes to the existence of structurally diverse phytochemicals present in the preparation. Hence traditional formulations like PKC shall be recommended for clinical management of drug{\textendash}resistant pathogens in near future.

}, keywords = {Anti-bacterial, Anti-fungal., Infectious diseases, Medicinal herbs, Pancha Karpa Chooranam, Phytochemicals, Siddha formulation}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.043}, author = {Sattanathan Iyswarya and Sampath Meena and Shanmugasundaram Visweswaran and Narayanan Jagathambal Muthukumar} } @article {1013, title = {Analysis of Bioactive Compounds from Different Algae Samples Extracted with Ultrasound: Characterizations, Phytochemical Contents and Antioxidant Potentials}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {35-44}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {35}, abstract = {

Introduction: Algae are a significant bioactive compounds source, with variation in biological functions including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral. Both microalgae and macroalgae biomass are a rich source of high value nutraceuticals and other bio products of commercial value, making algae worth investigating into. Objectives: To analyze bioactive phytochemicals and their antioxidants properties of extracts from algae from lake Taihu, Microcystis aeruginosa, Spirogyra and Seaweed extracted with ultrasound assisted method in comparison to the traditional extraction method, and a subsequent use of the residue in producing biochar. Materials and Methods: The different algae species viz Microcystis aeruginosa, Spirogyra and Seaweed were subjected to ultrasonic and thermostatted water bath extraction with a 70\% ethanol and 30\% water (v/v) as solvent. The extracts were characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The total phenol and flavonoid and antioxidant activities were assessed in vitro viz hydroxyl radical ({\textbullet}OH) scavenging activity, ferric- reducing antioxidant property, total antioxidant capacity and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity. Results: The chemical analysis indicated the existence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, proteins, carbohydrates, phytosterols, quinones, saponins, coumarins and glycosides. In vitro screening of the extracts also showed good antioxidant capacity (hydroxyl radical ({\textbullet}OH) scavenging activity, ferricreducing antioxidant property, total antioxidant capacity and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity), the extracted compounds are of biological and pharmacological importance. The ultrasound assisted extraction method significantly increased yield with 27.0\% in comparison to conventional method with 18.6\%. Conclusion: The study showed the different algae species were enriched with phytochemicals and that the ultrasound assisted method was an effective extraction method environmentally benignant. A complete utilization of algae biomass was achieved after biochar was made from the residue.

}, keywords = {Algae species, Antioxidant activity., ethanol, Phytochemicals, Ultrasound assisted extraction}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.7}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1417.html}, author = {Jakpa Wizi and Lixiao Ni and Williams Kweku Darkwah and Li Xianglan} } @article {1002, title = {Effects of Extraction Solvents on Phytochemical Screening, Cytotoxicity and Anti-Obesity Activities of Selected Sri Lankan Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {246-256}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {246}, abstract = {

Background: Phytoconstituents are known to have an arena of health benefits. The choice of extraction solvents for a desired pharmacological activity is poorly characterized. Objectives: The present study compared the use of different solvents to extract phytoconstituents, evaluate cytotoxicity and anti-obesity activities. Materials and Methods: Leaves, bark, flowers or tubers of fourteen commonly utilized plants in the Sri Lankan Ayurvedic system were used to prepare extracts of distilled water (DW), ethanol or n-hexane. Phytochemical screening, total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC), cytotoxicity and triglyceride assays were performed. Results: DW served as the best solvent to extract the highest yield of phytochemicals followed by ethanol marking hexane as the least efficient solvent. The water extract (WE) of Averrhoa bilimbi leaves and ethanol extract (EE) of Cassia auriculata showed the highest TPC. The TFC was lowest in the hexane extract (HE) of all plants. The WE of plants showed >=75\% cell viability below 500 μg/mL with no potential anti-adipogenic activity. The EE of Justicia adhathoda showed maximum lipid inhibition (88.31\%), followed by Aerva lanata (74.65\%), and Cyperus rotundus (74.04\%) at 100 μg/mL. The EE of Ipomoea aquatica (45.11\%), Murrya koenigii (41.04\%), and Hemidesmus indicus (32.97\%) showed the highest viable anti-adiposity activity at 50 μg/mL. Conclusion: The WE of most plants provided a greater yield of phytoconstituents enabling their safe usage in higher doses during Ayurvedic medication. Ethanol served as a better solvent to extract constituents responsible for anti-adipogenesis and no possible correlation was found between the phenolic content and anti-adiposity.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1, Anti-adipogenesis, Ayurveda, cytotoxicity, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.18}, author = {Silva Waruni Randika and Nugara Ruwani Nilushi and Manage Pathmalal and Undugoda Lanka and Udayanga Dhanushka and Liyanage Renuka Nilmini and Galhena Prasanna} } @article {61, title = {High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Antioxidant Activities of Extract of Azadirachta indica (Neem) Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {29-34}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {29}, abstract = {

Background: Extracts from Azadirachta indica (A. indica) tend to provide numerous health benefits including antioxidant activity. The main objectives for this research were to use standard procedures to determine total phenols, total alkaloids, total flavonoid, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine (DPPH)-scavenging activity, ferric reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity and analyze active components of the extracts using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Materials and Methods: In vitro antioxidant potential of the A. indica extract was evaluated using DPPH and total antioxidant ability assays. Ferric reducing power ability of the extract was also examined using tannic acid and ascorbic acid as standard. Concentrations of plant extracts ranging from 0.02 to 0.10 mg/ml were prepared and mixed with appropriate volumes of reagents. Results: Methanol extract of A. indica exhibited higher content of phytochemical compounds (alkaloid = 1.9 mg QE/g; flavonoids = 3.5 mg QE/g; and phenols = 4.9 mg QE/g) at concentration 0.1 mg/ml compared to the acetone/water extract (alkaloid = 1.7 mg QE/g; flavonoids = 1.4 mg QE/g; and phenols = 2.6 mg QE/g). An overall trend found in the present study highlights the fact that the methanol extracts have better antioxidant capacities (DPPH, total antioxidant ability, and ferric reducing antioxidant property) than the acetone/water extract. HPLC analysis conducted also reveals seven peaks for methanol extract and six for acetone{\textendash}water extract with different heights. Conclusion: HPLC analysis of A. indica extracts exhibited the presence of azadirachtin compound. The study showed that the extracts can competently protect the body against oxidative stress and therefore can be used as a source of potent natural antioxidant compounds.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Azadirachta indica, High-performance liquid chromatography analysis, Leaf extracts, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_14_19}, author = {Emmanuel Ekow Biney and Matthew Nkoom and Williams Kweku Darkwah and Joshua Buer Puplampu} } @article {189, title = {Comparative Analysis of the Antimicrobial Potential of Stem and Fruit Extracts of Calotropis procera}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {368-374}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {368}, abstract = {

Background: The dramatic rise in antimicrobial resistance continues to threaten the effective management and treatment of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Medicinal plants offer excellent therapeutic alternative especially due to their plethora bioactive constituents and low resistance development to them. Purpose: The comparative analysis of the antimicrobial potential of the stem and fruit extracts of Calotropis procera was investigated. Materials and Methods: Using different extracts of the plant, the phytochemical screening was determined alongside their antimicrobial properties with agar-disc diffusion assay. The antimicrobial potency of the plant extracts (200 mg/ml) was evaluated and compared by their inhibition zone (IZ), activity index (AI), percentage specific activity (PSA), and percentage total activity (PTA) values. Results: The highest antibacterial activity (IZ = 15 {\textpm} 0.5 mm) was displayed by the stem hot aqueous extract against Staphylococcus aureus, while the maximum antifungal effect was exerted by both the stem cold and hot aqueous extracts (P \> 0.05). The overall antimicrobial AI (AI = 1.56) was displayed by the stem cold aqueous extract against Candida albicans. The stem{\textquoteright}s hot and ethanolic extracts exhibited the highest achievable PSA of 100\%. Furthermore, the stem extracts displayed the PTA of 83.3\% compared to 25\% by the fruit extracts, thus confirming the greater antimicrobial potency of the plant{\textquoteright}s stem extracts. Conclusion: This study suggests that while the stem extracts of C. procera could have displayed better antimicrobial activity, the overall effects elicited by the plant could be attributed to the presence of phytochemicals as revealed by the result of the phytochemical screening. Further studies focusing on complete characterization and evaluation of the mechanism of antimicrobial action of bioactive constituents of the extracts is underway.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Antimicrobial resistance, Calotropis procera, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_58_20}, author = {Sharafa Adegoke Bello and Tawakalt Adedayo Ayofe and Mohammed Faridat Yakub and Abdullahi Temitope Jamiu} } @article {187, title = {Phytochemical Screening and Bioactive Potential of Pod Seed Extracts of Leucaena leucocephala Linn}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {361-367}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {361}, abstract = {

Background: Free radicals generated during injury lead to the development of various diseases such as diabetes, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, and cancer. Antioxidants present in plants can prevent the deleterious effect of these free radicals. Among various plants, Leucaena leucocephala is a mimosoid, fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing small tree having pods with various medicinal properties. Objective: Hence, the present study was designed to determine the bioactive potential of ethanolic and methanolic extracts of L. leucocephala pod seeds. Materials and Methods: We have assessed the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the extract. In addition, the presence of various metabolites and other compounds was also evaluated though gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Results: The results indicated that the methanol extract had relatively higher antibacterial and antioxidant properties than ethanol extract. Furthermore, GC-MS data revealed the presence of various active constituents in the methanolic extract. Conclusion: Thus, the bioactive potential of various compounds present in methanol extracts of plant parts could be responsible for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Leucaena leucocephala, Phytochemicals, Plant extracts}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_49_20}, author = {Om Prakash and Salma Malik and Kumari Vandana Rani and Vipin Kumar Verma} } @article {203, title = {Phytochemical Screening, Antibacterial-Guided Fractionation, and Thin-Layer Chromatographic Pattern of the Extract Obtained from Diploknema butyracea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {437-443}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {437}, abstract = {

Objective: Diploknema butyracea (family: Sapotaceae), commonly known as the Indian butter tree or Chyuri, is habitat to Nepal and distributed from Garhwal to Sikkim up to Bhutan. This study was aimed to investigate and examine the qualitative phytochemical screening, antibacterial-guided fractionation, and thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) pattern of the D. butyracea bark extracts. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical screening of D. butyracea extract was carried out by different chemical tests. Normal-phase TLC was conducted by using different solvent system to investigate the presence of phytochemicals. Antibacterial activity on different fractions of methanolic bark extract was determined by the agar disc diffusion method. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloid, tannin, and flavonoid in barks; alkaloid and flavonoid in flowers; and alkaloid, tannin, and steroid in leaves. Among the different fractions of bark extracts, the acetone fraction was found to be most effective against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, whereas the highest sensitivity against Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli was shown by n-butanol fraction. Both fractions showed a zone of inhibition of 15 mm at the concentration of 1 mg extract per disc. TLC of the bark extract confirmed the presence of prominently visible compounds at ethyl acetate fraction. Conclusion: Isolated compounds from dried barks of D. butyracea could be the cradle of the new useful drug.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Diploknema butyracea, Phytochemicals, Thin-layer chromatography}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_27_20}, author = {Supriya Tiwari and Samjhana Nepal and Shraddha Sigdel and Sarju Bhattarai and Rabindra Kumar Rokaya and Jitendra Pandey and Ram Bahadur Khadka and Pramod Aryal and Ravin Bhandari} } @article {176, title = {Antidiarrheal Activity of Some Selected Nigerian Plants Used in Traditional Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {371-377}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {371}, abstract = {

Context: Herbal preparations of the various parts of Vitellaria paradoxa, Neorautanenia mitis, Senna surattensis, and Hydnora abyssinica have been used in the Nigerian traditional medical practice to treat the symptoms of diarrhea in humans and animals. Aims: This study aims to validate claims of the traditional use of these plants in the treatment of diarrhea and provide a scientific basis for further studies. Materials and Methods: The median lethal dose (LD50) values of the extracts were obtained using the Limit test. Castor oil induced diarrhea and intestinal transit (motility) models in albino rats were used to determine the antidiarrheal activity. Graded doses of the extracts were administered to 3 test groups, while the positive control groups were given standard drugs (atropine and loperamide) and the negative control groups received distilled water per os. Results: The LD50 was considered higher than 2000 mg/Kg for all the extracts. In the castor oil-induced diarrhea model, the highest percentage inhibition of defecation was observed in the test groups treated with the extracts of H. abyssinica (82\%) followed by S. surattensis (81\%), N. mitis (66\%), and V. paradoxa (32\%). H. abyssinica extract significantly decreased the intestinal transit of charcoal meal compared to the other extracts. Conclusion: The antidiarrheal activities of all the extracts give credence to their traditional use. H. abyssinica comparatively had the best antidiarrheal activity and has the potential as an antidiarrheal agent. Thus, the need for further studies of this extract to investigate active fractions, isolate and characterize active compounds, and determine their activities and safety.

}, keywords = {Antidiarrheal activity, in vivo, Nigerian plants, Phytochemicals, Traditional medicine.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_43_19}, author = {Christiana J. Dawurung and Jurbe G. Gotep and Joy G. Usman and Ishaku L. Elisha and Lami H. Lombin and Stephen G. Pyne} } @article {81, title = {Gas Chromatography{\textendash}Mass Spectrometry Analysis of the Volatile Compounds from the Ethanol Extracts of Bulbine asphodeloides and Helichrysum petiolare}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {219-223}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Background: Bulbine asphodeloides and Helichrysum petiolare are important medicinal plants that commonly used in folklore medicine in South Africa for the management of skin ailments such as acne, burns, wounds, eczema, shingles, hives, psoriasis, sores, rosacea, and rashes. Despite their extensive use in traditional medicine, the chemical profiles of these medicinal plants have not been elucidated. Objective: The present study was carried out to identify and compare the gas chromatography{\textendash} mass spectrometry (GC{\textendash}MS) profiles of the volatile components from the ethanol extracts of both plants. Materials and Methods: The fresh leaves of both plants were collected from Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa, and later oven dried and subjected for extraction and these extracts were further subjected to GC{\textendash}MS analysis using standard procedures. Results: The GC{\textendash}MS analysis revealed the presence of bioactive terpenes in the volatile components of the ethanol extracts of B. asphodeloides and H. petiolare. Conclusion: The findings reveal the presence of various bioactive compounds which therefore validates the therapeutic importance of these plants in the treatment of skin-related diseases.

}, keywords = {Bulbine asphodeloides, Gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry, Helichrysum petiolare, Phytochemicals, Skin ailments.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_26_19}, author = {Wilfred Otang-Mbeng and Idowu Jonas Sagbo} } @article {414, title = {Root Exudates of Cyperus alternifolius in Partial Hydroponic Condition under Heavy Metal Stress}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {294-300}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {294}, abstract = {

Secondary metabolites play a vital role in the treatment of various ailments as well as in phytoremediation. The link between secondary metabolites and phytoremediation needs exploration. Hitherto, no information is available regarding the phytochemical components that exist in the root exudates of Cyperus alternifolius. This study was designed to determine the phytocomponents in the root exudates of C. alternifolius under heavy metal stress. C. alternifolius was grown by a novel technique in partial hydroponic conditions and imperiled to a mixture of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, and Fe) at different concentrations. The root exudates were collected, freeze-dried, redissolved and reconstituted in hexane and analyzed in gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry using JEOL GCMATE II in SAIF IIT-Madras. The analysis revealed that the profile of phytochemicals in root exudates is diverse with biological properties. Few phytochemicals found in the root exudates are not cited earlier in any literature. The composition and percentage of phytochemicals could not be correlated to heavy metal concentration. Phytochemical composition decreased with an increase in heavy metal concentration. Control plant released more phytochemicals than the plants under heavy metal stress. From the results, it is evident that root exudates of C. alternifolius contain various bioactive components. Further research can be extended to evaluate the pharmaceutical importance of the species and explore its role in phytoremediation of heavy metals.

}, keywords = {Cyperus alternifolius, Gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry analysis, Heavy metals, Phytochemicals, Root exudates}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_107_16}, author = {Boopathy Usharani and , Namasivayam Vasudevan} } @article {299, title = {Synergisms in Alpha-glucosidase Inhibition and Antioxidant Activity of Camellia sinensis L. Kuntze and Eugenia uniflora L. Ethanolic Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {101-107}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {101}, abstract = {

Background: Camellia sinensis, the most consumed and popular beverages worldwide, and Eugenia uniflora, a Brazilian native species, have been already confirmed to have beneficial effects in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. However, their potential acting together against an enzyme linked to this pathology has never been exploited. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory properties of individual and combined ethanolic extracts of the leaves of C. sinensis and E. uniflora over alpha-glucosidase, a key digestive enzyme used on the Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) control. In addition, their inhibitory activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH{\textbullet}) and peroxyl radicals was also assayed. Materials and Methods: Enzyme inhibition and antioxidant potential were assessed based on in vitro assays. Total phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and chlorophylls A and B were achieved using spectrophotometric methods. Results: E. uniflora was almost 40 times more active on alpha-glucosidase than C. sinensis and combined extracts showed a significant synergistic effect with an obtained IC50 value almost 5 times lower than the theoretical value. C. sinensis extract was twice more active than E. uniflora concerning DPPH{\textbullet}, in contrast, E. uniflora was almost 10 times more effective than C. sinensis on inhibition of peroxyl radicals with a significant synergistic effect for combined extracts. The extracts activities may be related with their phytochemicals, mainly phenolic compounds, and chlorophylls. Conclusion: Combined C. sinensis and E. uniflora ethanolic extracts showed synergistic effect against alpha-glucosidase and lipid peroxidation. These herbal combinations can be used to control postprandial hyperglycemia and can also provide antioxidant defenses to patients with T2DM.

}, keywords = {Additive effect, Antihyperglycemic effect, Antiradical activity, Diabetes, Phytochemicals, Synergistic effect}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.197797}, author = {Juliana Vinholes and M{\'a}rcia Vizzotto} } @article {379, title = {Quantitative and Qualitative analysis of Phenolic and Flavonoid content in Moringa oleifera Lam and Ocimum tenuiflorum L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {16-21}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {16}, abstract = {

Background: Number of secondary compounds is produced by plants as natural antioxidants. Moringa oleifera Lam. and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. are known for their wide applications in food and pharmaceutical industry. Objective: To compare phenolic and flavonoid content in M. oleifera Lam and O. tenuiflorum L. by quantitative and qualitative analysis. Materials and Methods: Phenolic and flavonoid content were studied spectrophotometrically and by paper chromatography in M. oleifera Lam. and O. tenuiflorum L. Results: Higher phenolic and flavonoid content were observed in Moringa leaf and flower. Ocimum flower showed higher phenolic content and low flavonoid in comparison to Moringa. Flavonoids such as biflavonyl, flavones, glycosylflavones, and kaempferol were identified by paper chromatography. Phytochemical analysis for flavonoid, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, reducing sugars, and anthraquinones were tested positive for Moringa and Ocimum leaf as well as flower. Conclusions: In the present study higher phenolic and flavonoid content, indicated the natural antioxidant nature of Moringa and Ocimum signifying their medicinal importance.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Flavonoids, Ocimum, Phenolics, Phytochemicals, Qualitative analysis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171095}, author = {Sangeeta Sankhalkar and Vrunda Vernekar} } @article {526, title = {Bioactive compounds from Carissa opaca roots and xanthine oxidase and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of their methanolic extract and its fractions in different solvents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {295-301}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {295}, abstract = {

Background: Carissa opaca is known for its many ethnomedicinal uses. There was a need to study its bioactivities and identify its phytochemicals. Objectives: The objective was to isolate and identify phytochemicals from roots of C. opaca and to evaluate xanthine oxidase (XO) and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of their methanolic extract and its fractions. Materials and Methods: Methanolic extract of finely divided powder of roots of C. opaca was obtained by cold maceration, followed by its fractionation to obtain hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanolic, and aqueous fractions. Phytochemicals screening was done by standard protocols. XO and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of the methanolic extract and its fractions were studied. The most active ethyl acetate fraction was subjected to the column and thin layer chromatography to isolate its compounds, which were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography comparison. Results: Methanolic extract displayed significant activity against both the enzymes with IC50 of 156.0 μg/mL and 5.6 mg/mL for XO and alpha-amylase, respectively. Ethyl acetate fraction showed highest activity against both the enzymes with IC50 of 129 μg/mL and 4.9 mg/mL for XO and alpha-amylase, respectively. Chloroform fraction had IC50 of 154.2 μg/mL and 5.5 mg/mL for XO and alpha-amylase, respectively. Aqueous fraction exhibited significant efficacy against alpha-amylase (IC50 5.0 mg/mL). Hexane fraction showed good activity against alpha-amylase in a dose-dependent manner but exhibited opposite trend against XO. The compounds isolated from ethyl acetate fraction included limonene, vanillin, lupeol, rutin, quercetin, β-sitosterol, Vitamin E, 2-hydroxyacetophenone, naphthalenone, 2,3,3-trimethyl- 2-(3-methylbuta-1,3-dienyl)-6-methylenecyclohexanone, and 2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester. Conclusion: Moderately polar phytochemicals of C. opaca roots possess exploitable inhibitory activity against both the enzymes.

}, keywords = {Alpha-amylase, Carissa opaca roots, Inhibitory activity, Phytochemicals, Xanthine oxidase.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158440}, author = {Ramsha Saeed and Dildar Ahmed} } @article {807, title = {Antimalarial Activity of Malaysian Plectranthus amboinicus Against Plasmodium Berghei}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {280-284}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {280}, abstract = {

Context: Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by parasitic protozoa from the genus of Plasmodium. The protozoans have developed resistance against many of current drugs. It is urgent to find an alternative source of new antimalarial agent. In the effort to discover new antimalarial agents, this research has been conducted on Plectranthus amboinicus. Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate the toxicity and antiplasmodial properties of P. amboinicus. Materials and Methods: Acute oral toxicity dose at 5000 mg/kg was conducted to evaluate the safety of this extract. Twenty mice were divided into control and experimental group. All the mice were observed for signs of toxicity, mortality, weight changes and histopathological changes. Antimalarial activity of different extract doses of 50, 200, 400 and 1000 mg/kg were tested in vivo against Plasmodium berghei infections in mice (five mice for each group) during early, established and residual infections. Results: The acute oral toxicity test revealed that no mortality or evidence of adverse effects was seen in the treated mice. The extract significantly reduced the parasitemia by the 50 (P = 0.000), 200 (P = 0.000) and 400 mg/kg doses (P = 0.000) in the in vivo prophylactic assay. The percentage chemo-suppression was calculated as 83.33\% for 50 mg/kg dose, 75.62\% for 200 mg/kg dose and 90.74\% for 400 mg/kg dose. Body weight of all treated groups; T1, T2, T3 and T4 also showed enhancement after 7 days posttreatment. Statistically no reduction of parasitemia calculated for curative and suppressive test. Conclusion: Thus, this extract may give a promising agent to be used as a prophylactic agent of P. berghei infection.

}, keywords = {Antiplasmodial, Phytochemicals, Plectranthus amboinicus, Safety, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138248}, author = {Norazsida Ramli and Pakeer Oothuman Syed Ahamed and Hassan Mohamed Elhady and Muhammad Taher} } @article {907, title = {A Comparison of Traditional Anti-inflammation and Anti-infection Medicinal Plants with Current Evidence from Biomedical Research: Results from a Regional Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {293-295}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {293}, abstract = {

Background: In relation to pharmacognosy, an objective of many ethnobotanical studies is to identify plant species to be further investigated, for example, tested in disease models related to the ethnomedicinal application. To further warrant such testing, research evidence for medicinal applications of these plants (or of their major phytochemical constituents and metabolic derivatives) is typically analyzed in biomedical databases. Methods: As a model of this process, the current report presents novel information regarding traditional anti-inflammation and anti-infection medicinal plant use. This information was obtained from an interview-based ethnobotanical study; and was compared with current biomedical evidence using the Medline{\textregistered} database. Results: Of the 8 anti-infection plant species identified in the ethnobotanical study, 7 have related activities reported in the database; and of the 6 anti-inflammation plants, 4 have related activities in the database. Conclusion: Based on novel and complimentary results from the ethnobotanical and biomedical database analyses, it is suggested that some of these plants warrant additional investigation of potential anti-inflammatory or anti-infection activities in related disease models, and also additional studies in other population groups.

}, keywords = {Ethnobotany, Infection, Inflammation, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72326}, author = {A Vieira} } @article {868, title = {A Search for Mosquito Larvicidal Compounds by Blocking the Sterol Carrying Protein, AeSCP-2, through Computational Screening and Docking Strategies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {247-253}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {247}, abstract = {

Background: Sterol is a very vital compound for most of the insects and mosquitoes to complete their life cycle. Unfortunately mosquitoes cannot synthesize the sterol, it depends on mammals for the same. Mosquitoes take the sterol from the plant decays during their larval stage in the form of phytosterol, which is then converted to cholesterol for further growth and reproduction. This conversion occurs with the help of the sterol carrier protein 2(SCP2). Methods: Mosquito populations are controlled by plant-based inhibitors, which inhibit sterol carrier protein (SCPI-Sterol carrier protein inhibitor) activity. In this article, we explain the methods of inhibiting Aedes aegypti SCP2 by insilico methods including natural inhibitor selection and filtrations by virtual screening and interaction studies. Results: In this study protein-ligand interactions were carried out with various phytochemicals, as a result of virtual screening Alpha-mangostin and Panthenol were found to be good analogs, and were allowed to dock with the mosquito cholesterol carrier protein AeSCP-2. Conclusion: Computational selections of SCPIs are highly reliable and novel methods for discovering new and more effective compounds to control mosquitoes.

}, keywords = {Computational screening, Docking, Mosquito sterol carrier protein, Phytochemicals, SCPI}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69126}, author = {R Barani Kumar and B Shanmugapriya and K Thiyagesan and S Raj Kumar and Suresh M. Xavier} } @article {900, title = {Standardization of Alpinia calcarata Roscoe rhizomes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {285-288}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {285}, abstract = {

Background: Rhizomes of Alpinia calcarata Roscoe (Family: Zingiberaceae) possess several bioactivities and are used in the traditional medicinal systems of Sri Lanka. Methods: The present investigation was carried out to standardize the rhizomes of A. calcarata by (a) screening for phytochemicals (b) determination of physico-chemical parameters and (c) development of a Densitogram. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroid glycosides and alkaloids in A. calcarata rhizomes. The percentages of moisture, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash, ethanol extractable matter and water extractable matter were of 5.5 - 6.8, 8.3 - 8.8, 0.036 - 0.040, 7.2 - 7.8, 22.6 - 24.8 and 18.6 - 20.5 respectively. Conclusion: The results obtained from this study can be used to standardize rhizomes of A. calcarata grown in Sri Lanka.

}, keywords = {Alpinia calcarata, Physico-chemical parameters, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72324}, author = {L.S.R Arambewela and L.D.A.M Arawwawala} }