Esther U . Alum | Kampala International University (original) (raw)
Papers by Esther U . Alum
Avicenna Journal of Medical Biochemistry
Background: Herbs have gained recognition as highly efficient tools in the treatment and manageme... more Background: Herbs have gained recognition as highly efficient tools in the treatment and management of diseases both in modern and traditional medicine. Datura stramonium is a good example of such a medicinal herb. D. stramonium is popularly called thorn apple or Jimson weed in the family of Solanaceae. It has both toxic as well as medicinal potentials. D. stramonium leaves, seeds, and stems have been extensively studied for various pharmacological properties. D. stramonium seed is among the top plants commonly abused as a drug by Nigerian youths. Chemical constituents are responsible for the medicinal potential of plants. Objectives: This study was planned to investigate and compare the vitamin contents of ethanol extract of D. stramonium leaf and seed. Methods: The determination of vitamin levels was carried out using the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and other standard methods. Results: The order of vitamin composition in both leaves and seeds was E>C>A...
International Journal of Innovative and Applied Research, 2023
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world ... more The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world with severe impact in developing regions. Women and young girls are more threatened by HIV infection than their male counterparts. Notably, in 2022, 63% of all new HIV infections were attributed to women in sub-Saharan Africa. The anatomical architecture of the female genital tracts, poverty, gender imbalance, unrefined cultural norms aimed at subjugating women, early exposure to sex and marriage, and illiteracy are fingered to contribute to the increased risk of HIV infection in women and young girls. Mitigating these factors will no doubt help curb the prevalence of HIV infection. Herein, we highlighted some measures that could help turn down women’s risk of getting HIV including abstinence, regular use of condoms, delay in sexual exposure, maintaining one faithful partner, timely voluntary counseling and testing, formal education, monitoring of alcohol use, proper dieting, and scrapping of cultural norms targeted at subjugating women. Successfully turning down HIV infection risk in women and young girls will be a breakthrough in the combat against HIV infection since women and young girls being the most vulnerable group must have been salvaged. This paper reviewed the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in women and young girls, the factors fueling the high prevalence, and enumerated key areas to target in order to minimize this menace. Related published data from various databases wereutilized.
Medicine, 2023
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate int... more Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if not properly managed. HIV infection shortens life expectancy to about 5 to 10 years compared to noninfected individuals. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are prone to several health challenges as a result of a deranged immune system culminating in high morbidity and mortality. Depression is a common feature of PLWHA. Depression heightens the emergence of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected individuals, accelerates the progression to AIDS, and increased suicidal tendencies, morbidity, and mortality. Food insecurity with its resultant undernutrition contributes to HIV/AIDS-related deaths. Undernourished PLWHA are more prone to opportunistic infections due to poor immunity. Interestingly, proper diet intake can boost immunity, slow the progression of AIDS and opportunistic infections, enhance body weight, and retard depression tendencies. Undernutrition can also be ameliorated by incorporating nutritional counseling and oral nutrient supplementation in routine HIV/AIDS checkups. Therefore, to increase HIV/AIDS management outcomes, the integration of nutrition counseling, dietary supplements, and mental health services should be embraced. Thus, HIV/AIDS care centers should amplify these services. In this article, we isolated relevant studies from various databases, illuminated the interwoven relationship between HIV/AIDS, depression, and undernutrition, and also reemphasized the need for adequate nutritional intervention in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Thus, this study provides a reawakening call to focus on incorporating nutritional guides and mental health care in HIV/AIDS management protocols. Abbreviations: AIDS = acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, ART = antiretroviral therapy, CD4 = cluster of differentiation, HIV = human immunodeficiency virus, PLWHA = people living with HIV/AIDS.
Cogent Food & Agriculture, 2023
One of the prominent complications observed in those undergoing treatment with methotrexate (MTX)... more One of the prominent complications observed in those undergoing treatment with methotrexate (MTX) is hematological profile alterations which could culminate in severe anemia. In this study, we assessed the hematological profile indices in MXT-treated rats and the effect of leaf extract of Datura stramonium (LEDS) supplementation in MXT-treated rats. Ethanol (98%) was the solvent used in extraction. Animals were divided at random into four groups. Animals in group 1 received normal saline (5 mg/kg) orally and feeding was limitless and did not receive MXT. Animals in group 2 were given LEDS orally (200 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days while group 3 received 20 mg/kg body weight (bw) of MXT on day 18 via the intra-peritoneum without LEDS. Rats in group 4 were given the extract (200 mg/kg bw) and also injected with 20 mg/kg bw of MXT on day 18 of the study via the intra-peritoneum. Serum levels of hemoglobin, red blood
cells, packed cell volume, total white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and platelets were determined. Rats treated with MXT had notable depletion in hemoglobin, red blood cells, packed cell volume, total white blood cells, neutrophils, and platelets, unlike the control group. Interestingly, LEDS supplementation markedly restored the altered
hematological profiles. MXT injection caused hematological dysfunction while co-supplementation with LEDS restored the impaired hematological indices. Therefore, LEDs could be a promising tool in arresting hematological dysfunctions accompanying MXT chemotherapy. However, we advocate for further prospective scrutiny.
Medicine, 2023
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate int... more Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if not properly managed. HIV infection shortens life expectancy to about 5 to 10 years compared to noninfected individuals. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are prone to several health challenges as a result of a deranged immune system culminating in high morbidity and mortality. Depression is a common feature of PLWHA. Depression heightens the emergence of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected individuals, accelerates the progression to AIDS, and increased suicidal tendencies, morbidity, and mortality. Food insecurity with its resultant undernutrition contributes to HIV/AIDS-related deaths. Undernourished PLWHA are more prone to opportunistic infections due to poor immunity. Interestingly, proper diet intake can boost immunity, slow the progression of AIDS and opportunistic infections, enhance body weight, and retard depression tendencies. Undernutrition can also be ameliorated by incorporating nutritional counseling and oral nutrient supplementation in routine HIV/AIDS checkups. Therefore, to increase HIV/AIDS management outcomes, the integration of nutrition counseling, dietary supplements, and mental health services should be embraced. Thus, HIV/AIDS care centers should amplify these services. In this article, we isolated relevant studies from various databases, illuminated the interwoven relationship between HIV/AIDS, depression, and undernutrition, and also reemphasized the need for adequate nutritional intervention in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Thus, this study provides a reawakening call to focus on incorporating nutritional guides and mental health care in HIV/AIDS management protocols. Abbreviations: AIDS = acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, ART = antiretroviral therapy, CD4 = cluster of differentiation, HIV = human immunodeficiency virus, PLWHA = people living with HIV/AIDS.
International Journal of Innovative and Applied Research, 2023
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world ... more The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world with severe impact in developing regions. Women and young girls are more threatened by HIV infection than their male counterparts. Notably, in 2022, 63% of all new HIV infections were attributed to women in sub-Saharan Africa. The anatomical architecture of the female genital tracts, poverty, gender imbalance, unrefined cultural norms aimed at subjugating women, early exposure to sex and marriage, and illiteracy are fingered to contribute to the increased risk of HIV infection in women and young girls. Mitigating these factors will no doubt help curb the prevalence of HIV infection. Herein, we highlighted some measures that could help turn down women’s risk of getting HIV including abstinence, regular use of condoms, delay in sexual exposure, maintaining one faithful partner, timely voluntary counseling and testing, formal education, monitoring of alcohol use, proper dieting, and scrapping of cultural norms targeted at subjugating women. Successfully turning down HIV infection risk in women and young girls will be a breakthrough in the combat against HIV infection since women and young girls being the most vulnerable group must have been salvaged. This paper reviewed the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in women and young girls, the factors fueling the high prevalence, and enumerated key areas to target in order to minimize this menace. Related published data from various databases were utilized.
Avicenna Journal of Medical Biochemistry, 2023
In recent years, there has been a growing rise in the use of medicinal plants because they are u... more In recent years, there has been a growing rise in the use of medicinal plants because they are useful natural resources and are regarded as potentially safe drugs (1). These plants have been analyzed for various pharmacological roles, including biological, antimicrobial (2), and hypoglycemic functions (3). The medicinal properties of plants depend on chemical compounds that generate specific physiological actions (4-6). About 60% of the total global population relies on medicinal plant use for healthcare maintenance (7). Datura has been popular among traditional Chinese and Indian systems of Medicare for ages (8). It is used for the management of pain, fever, asthma, ulcer, and bronchitis (9). Excessive intake of Datura stramonium can cause hallucinations and death due to its high alkaloid content (2,10,11). Several pharmacological and ethnomedicinal uses of this plant abound. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (12) and stimulatory effects on the central nervous system, the enhancement of the respiratory tract, and also the maintenance of healthy teeth and skin (13). D. stramonium is rich in compounds with anticholinergic effects and hence can be used in treating symptoms related to organophosphate intoxication (14). Every part of D. stramonium is toxic; however, D. stramonium ripe seeds are the most toxic part (2,10,15). The unpalatable effects of its toxicity can be extremely deleterious. Thus, prior knowledge of its toxicity and dosage is essential. Vitamins are organic molecules that perform an array of
Newport International Journal of Research in Medical Science, 2023
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. HIV is still ravaging developin... more Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. HIV is still ravaging developing countries despite concerted efforts towards its eradication. HIV infection, and its treatment with antiretroviral increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These duos of cardiovascular diseases and HIV are more prevalent in developing countries, especially the sub-Saharan regions of Africa. Thus, they are considered inimical to the development of the sub-Saharan African region. Effacing these duos can scale down the health and economic burden orchestrated by them thereby accelerating the development of the sub-Saharan African region. In this paper, we shall illuminate the alliance between HIV infection, antiretroviral drug use, and cardiovascular risk, as well as proffer deflect measures to this imbroglio. A systematic search of already published studies shall be utilized.
Newport International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023
The emergence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has p... more The emergence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has posed a global threat to human health, economy, and longevity of life. Corollary, the search for treatment has been an extensive one and several breakthroughs have been made. However, prevention of HIV/AIDS is more economical than treatment and hence has been intensely advocated. Several measures have been championed by different groups. Worthy of note is the role of religious leaders in the dissemination of management and preventive measures for HIV/AIDS due to their exalted societal status and access to a large audience. Despite the gigantic strides made by religious leaders in curbing this menace, there are still some drawbacks. In this paper, we shall succinctly highlight the impacts made by religious leaders toward the annihilation of HIV/AIDS
Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Dec 30, 2022
Physicochemical properties of soil samples from Ikwo LGA of Ebonyi State were investigated for th... more Physicochemical properties of soil samples from Ikwo LGA of Ebonyi State were investigated for their impact on mineral composition of cassava samples. Standard methods were used for analyses. Sixteen soil samples and eight cassava samples were used for the research. The results of the soil physicochemical analysis were sand 67.73%, silt 16.77%, clay 15.5%, pH 7.45, organic carbon 1.62%, organic matter 2.79%, exchangeable acidity (EA) 1.13 mg/kg, effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) 9.71 mg/kg and base saturation (BS) 88.39 %, for topsoil. For subsoil, sand 60.73 %, silt 17.27 %, clay 22.00 %, pH 5.32, organic carbon 1.15 %, organic matter 1.98 %, EA 1.14 mg/kg, ECEC 9.23 mg/kg and BS 87.38 %. The soil texture was sandy loam for the top and subsoil. The result of soil mineral analyses (mg/kg) were Ca 5.20, Mg 3.00, K 0.19, Na 0.18, P 55.35 and N 0.15 for topsoil; while those of subsoil were Ca 5.07, Mg 2.67, K 0.17, Na 0.18, P 41.68 and N 0.11. The result of soil heavy metal analysis (mg/kg) showed that all the heavy metals are within EPA Standard. The result of the cassava mineral analysis (mg/kg) were Ca 3.76, Mg 1.19, K 0.849, Na 0.24-0.26, N 1.05 and P 0.46. The result of cassava heavy metal analysis (mg/kg) showed that all the heavy metals are within EPA Standard. There was correlation between the soil physicochemical properties and the mineral concentrations of the cassava samples. There was also correlation between the soil physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentration of the cassava samples.
Journal of Xenobiotics
The fight against malaria is a continuum as the epidemic is not abating. For proper deployment of... more The fight against malaria is a continuum as the epidemic is not abating. For proper deployment of tools in the fight against malaria, an assessment of the situation is necessary. This work assessed the level of antimalarial drug treatment failure in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Both survey and in vitro analyses were adopted. The survey was used to obtain qualitative information from both the malaria subjects and the pharmacies where antimalarial drugs are sourced. The results from the survey were complemented by an in vitro assay of the level of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the commonly used artemisinin combination in Nigeria; artemether/lumefantrine. Results from the survey revealed that artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs) remain the mainstay in the treatment of malaria, even though other non-artemisinin drugs are still used. It also revealed that many patients still self-medicate, although, this may not be connected to the treatment failure seen among some malaria su...
RPS Pharmacy and Pharmacology Reports
ObjectivesMethotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used anti-cancer drug. However, its usage could lead t... more ObjectivesMethotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used anti-cancer drug. However, its usage could lead to various biochemical dysregulations culminating in organ toxicity. Globally, most plant products have been used for the treatment of several diseases. Thus, we investigated the effect of Datura stramonium ethanolic leaf extract (DSELE) supplementation in MXT-induced biochemical alterations in rats.MethodsRats were divided into four groups: Group 1 received normal saline (5 mg/kg b. w), Group 2 received DSELE (200 mg/kg), Group 3 received 20 mg/kg MXT while rats in Group 4 received 200 mg/kg + MTX 20 mg/kg. Normal saline and DSELE were administered per os for 21 days while MXT single injection was given intraperitoneally on day 18 and the rats were sacrificed after 3 days. Thereafter, biochemical parameters were evaluated.Key findingsMTX caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in serum activities of liver enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP) and levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipo...
RPS Pharmacy and Pharmacology Reports
OBJECTIVES The anti-nutritional composition and Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) anal... more OBJECTIVES The anti-nutritional composition and Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of ethanol root extract and fractions of Sphenocentrum jollyanum (SJ) were carried out. METHODS The anti-nutritional factors and GC-MS were analyzed using standard methods. KEY FINDINGS The anti-nutritional constituents of the samples were in the order of phenols> terpenoids>flavonoids>tannins>glycosides>alkaloids>hydrogen cyanide>saponins>steroids. The phytochemicals were significantly (P<0.05) higher in extract than fractions, the terpenoids value obtained as 1904.72mg/100g from ethanol extract is significantly higher (P<0.05) than the values of 935.80mg/100g and 968.92 mg/100g gotten from it ethylacetate and methanol fractions respectively. There is no significant difference (P>0.05) for the ethylacetate 0.74 mg/100g and methanol 0.79 mg/100g fractions of steroids. However, the methanol fraction of Tannins, Phenols, Glycosides, Saponins, and Hydro...
Food Science & Nutrition
This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable... more This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable of alleviating BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the effects of CMSO on adipokine dysfunctions and dyslipidemia in bisphenol-A (BPA)-induced male Wistar rats. Six-week-old 36 albino rats of 100–200 g weight were assigned randomly to six groups, which received varied doses of BPA and/or CMSO. The administration of BPA and CMSO was done at the same time for 42 days by oral intubation. The adipokine levels and lipid profile were measured in adipose tissue and plasma using standard methods. BPA induced significant (p < .05) increases in triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices in adipose tissue and plasma, as well as a decrease in adiponectin and HDL-C levels in Group II animals. BPA administration significantly (p < .05) elevated Leptin levels and reduced adiponectin levels. BPA plus CMSO reduced triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices while increasing adiponectin levels and HDL-C in adipose tissue and plasma (p < .05). The results showed that BPA exposure increased adipose tissue as well as serum levels of the atherogenic index, triglycerides, cholesterol, coronary risk index, LDL-C, leptin, and body weight with decreased adiponectin levels and HDL-C. Treatment with CMSO reduced the toxicities caused by BPA in rats by modulating the body weight, adiponectin/leptin levels, and lipid profiles in serum and adipose tissue. This study has shown that CMSO ameliorates BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunctions. We suggest for further clinical trial to establish the clinical applications.
Food Science & Nutrition, 2023
This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable... more This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable of alleviating BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the effects of CMSO on adipokine dysfunctions and dyslipidemia in bisphenol-A (BPA)-induced male Wistar rats. Six-week-old 36 albino rats of 100–200 g weight were assigned randomly to six groups, which received varied doses of BPA and/or CMSO. The administration of BPA and CMSO was done at the same time for 42 days by oral intubation. The adipokine levels and lipid profile were measured in adipose tissue and plasma using standard methods. BPA induced significant (p < .05) increases in triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices in adipose tissue and plasma, as well as a decrease in adiponectin and HDL-C levels in Group II animals. BPA administration significantly (p < .05) elevated Leptin levels and reduced adiponectin levels. BPA plus CMSO reduced triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices while increasing adiponectin levels and HDL-C in adipose tissue and plasma (p < .05). The results showed that BPA exposure increased adipose tissue as well as serum levels of the atherogenic index, triglycerides, cholesterol, coronary risk index, LDL-C, leptin, and body weight with decreased adiponectin levels and HDL-C. Treatment with CMSO reduced the toxicities caused by BPA in rats by modulating the body weight, adiponectin/leptin levels, and lipid profiles in serum and adipose tissue. This study has shown that CMSO ameliorates BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunctions. We suggest for further clinical trial to establish the clinical applications.
Food Science & Nutrition
There has been increasing search for the ameliorative properties of seed oils against toxicants. ... more There has been increasing search for the ameliorative properties of seed oils against toxicants. bisphenol A acts as an estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemical capable of causing male infertility. This study aimed to explore Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil effects against mitochondrial damage in rats using bisphenol A. Forty-eight rats were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 6) of eight rats each and fed the same food and water for 6 weeks. The group A rats were given 1 mL olive oil, while the ones in group B were given bisphenol A at 100 mL/kg body weight via oral route. Group C received C. mannii seed oil 7.5 mL/kg body weight C. mannii seed oil, while group D, group E, and group F were pre-administered bisphenol A at 100 mL/kg body weight, followed by treatment with C. mannii seed oil at 7.5, 5, and 2.5 mL/kg body weight, respectively. Antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, reactive oxygen species, testicular volume, malondialdehyde, body weight, and testicular studies were done using standard methods. The results of the bisphenol A-administered group showed a significant decrease in the antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, body weight, and testicular volume with elevation in the levels of reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and testicular indices. BPA + CMSO-treated group showed a significant increase in GPx activity compared with BPA-exposed rats. CMSO treatment significantly increased catalase activity in comparison with that of rats exposed to BPA. Remarkably, C. mannii seed oil and bisphenol A co-administration significantly reversed the abnormalities observed in the dysregulated biochemical biomarkers. Our findings suggest that C. mannii seed oil has considerable antioxidant potential which can be explored in therapeutic development against systemic toxicity induced by exposure to bisphenol A. Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil protects against bisphenol A-induced testicular mitochondria damages.
Patrick M Aja, 2023
The global burden of malaria seems unabated. Africa carries the greatest burden accounting for ov... more The global burden of malaria seems unabated. Africa carries the greatest burden accounting for over 95% of the annual cases
of malaria. For the vision of a world free of malaria by Global Technical Strategy to be achieved, Africa must take up the stakeholder’s
role. It is therefore imperative that Africa rises up to the challenge of malaria and champion the fight against it. The fight
against malaria may just be a futile or mere academic venture if Africans are not directly and fully involved. This work reviews
the roles playable by Africans in order to curb the malaria in Africa and the world at large.
International Digital Organization for Scientific Research (IDOSR) JOURNAL OF APPLIED SCIENCES, 2023
Medicinal plants contain numerous biologically active compounds such as minerals which have physi... more Medicinal plants contain numerous biologically active compounds such as minerals which have physiological actions on the human body. This work was designed to analyse the mineral composition of Datura stramonium (D. stramonium) leaf and seed extracts. Dry leaves and seeds of D. stramonium were pulverized. The powdered sample was used for the extraction using 98% ethanol. Standard methods were used in the determination of the mineral contents. The study result showed the order of trace minerals composition of D. stramonium leaves and seed were as follows: Fe>Cu>Mn>Zn>Ni>Co and Cu>Fe>Zn>Mn>Ni>Co, respectively. The result showed higher value of trace minerals in D. stramonium leaves than the seed. There were significant difference (p<0.05) in the trace elements levels of the leaves and seeds with the leaves having higher mineral levels than the seed. The result also showed that macro minerals of D. stramonium leaves and seed were in this order: Mg>Ca>K>P. D. stramonium leaves had higher quantities of macro mineral than the seeds. D. stramonium leaves and seed used for this study have proved to be very important in drug research and development, because of the mineral composition that are present in appreciable amount. These minerals could contribute to the various pharmacological attributes of this plant. However, further research is necessary to determine other bioactive constituents present in this plant and their mechanism of action.
IAA Journal of Biological Sciences, 2023
The study of natural products has given rise to the discovery of a variety of useful drugs for ef... more The study of natural products has given rise to the discovery of a variety of useful drugs for effective management of several diseases. Phytochemical constituents of plants are fingered to be biologically active compounds responsible for different activities such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal and anticancer. Thus, assessment of phytochemical constituents of plants is of utmost importance in medicine. There is however paucity of information on the comparative assessment of leaves and seeds of Datura stramonium (D. stramonium). Therefore, the present study was carried out to compare the phytochemical constituents of D. stramonium leaves and seeds. Ethanol was used for the extraction using standard method. Phytochemical screening was performed using various quantitative methods. The ratio of leaves versus seeds of phytochemical quantitative analysis was as follows: saponins (65.25: 34.25 mg/g), alkaloids (32.10: 71.28 mg/g), flavonoids (44.24: 30.12 mg/g), terpenoids (32.68:30.20 mg/g), tannins (31.25:26.62), respectively. This implies that saponins were dominant compounds followed by flavonoids and terpenoids in leaves while alkaloids were the dominant phytochemical in seeds. Based on our results, it is concluded that leaf and seed extracts of D. stramonium have varying concentrations of phytochemicals with the seed having higher concentration of alkaloids justifying why the seed is more toxic than the leaves while leaf extract had highest concentration of saponins and flavonoids giving credence to the antioxidant property of the leaves. Good quantity of various phytochemicals in this plant justifies its traditional use in the treatment of various diseases.
IAA Journal of Biological Sciences, 2023
Poor control of diabetes mellitus can result to impairment in lipid profile culminating to dyslip... more Poor control of diabetes mellitus can result to impairment in lipid profile culminating to dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and stroke. Measurement of triglyceride (TAG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are recommended in cardiovascular screening. Herbal and natural products have been used in folk medicine for centuries throughout the world. The aim of this research was to determine the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile of streptozotocin-induced diabetic wistar albino rats. All the chemicals and reagents used in this research were of analytical grade. A total of 48 rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=8): diabetic rats in group 1 were not treated, rather received only 0.5ml normal saline; 0.5mg glibenclamide was given to diabetic rats in group 2; nondiabetic rats in group 3 received 0.5ml normal saline only, diabetic rats that were treated with 250 mg/kg, 350mg/kg and 450mg/kg b.w of ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata, were labeled groups 4, 5 and 6, respectively. At the end of the 21 days study period, the rats were fasted overnight and blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture. Lipid profile was assayed using standard biochemical methods. Injection of streptozotocin led to a significant (p<0.05) decline in HDL-C while the levels of TAG, TC, and LDL-C increased significantly. Remarkably, treatment with 250 mg/kg, 350mg/kg and 450mg/kg b.w of ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata led to reversal of the altered lipid profile. However, there were no significant differences (p>0.05) when the Chromolaena odorata extract-treated groups were compared to group 2 rats (treated with glibenclamide), a known standard antidiabetic drug. In conclusion, results from this research indicated that the ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata possess hypo-cholesterolaemic and hypotriacylglycerolaemic effects as the extract decreased the LDL-cholesterol and increased the HDL-cholesterol levels.
Avicenna Journal of Medical Biochemistry
Background: Herbs have gained recognition as highly efficient tools in the treatment and manageme... more Background: Herbs have gained recognition as highly efficient tools in the treatment and management of diseases both in modern and traditional medicine. Datura stramonium is a good example of such a medicinal herb. D. stramonium is popularly called thorn apple or Jimson weed in the family of Solanaceae. It has both toxic as well as medicinal potentials. D. stramonium leaves, seeds, and stems have been extensively studied for various pharmacological properties. D. stramonium seed is among the top plants commonly abused as a drug by Nigerian youths. Chemical constituents are responsible for the medicinal potential of plants. Objectives: This study was planned to investigate and compare the vitamin contents of ethanol extract of D. stramonium leaf and seed. Methods: The determination of vitamin levels was carried out using the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and other standard methods. Results: The order of vitamin composition in both leaves and seeds was E>C>A...
International Journal of Innovative and Applied Research, 2023
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world ... more The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world with severe impact in developing regions. Women and young girls are more threatened by HIV infection than their male counterparts. Notably, in 2022, 63% of all new HIV infections were attributed to women in sub-Saharan Africa. The anatomical architecture of the female genital tracts, poverty, gender imbalance, unrefined cultural norms aimed at subjugating women, early exposure to sex and marriage, and illiteracy are fingered to contribute to the increased risk of HIV infection in women and young girls. Mitigating these factors will no doubt help curb the prevalence of HIV infection. Herein, we highlighted some measures that could help turn down women’s risk of getting HIV including abstinence, regular use of condoms, delay in sexual exposure, maintaining one faithful partner, timely voluntary counseling and testing, formal education, monitoring of alcohol use, proper dieting, and scrapping of cultural norms targeted at subjugating women. Successfully turning down HIV infection risk in women and young girls will be a breakthrough in the combat against HIV infection since women and young girls being the most vulnerable group must have been salvaged. This paper reviewed the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in women and young girls, the factors fueling the high prevalence, and enumerated key areas to target in order to minimize this menace. Related published data from various databases wereutilized.
Medicine, 2023
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate int... more Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if not properly managed. HIV infection shortens life expectancy to about 5 to 10 years compared to noninfected individuals. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are prone to several health challenges as a result of a deranged immune system culminating in high morbidity and mortality. Depression is a common feature of PLWHA. Depression heightens the emergence of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected individuals, accelerates the progression to AIDS, and increased suicidal tendencies, morbidity, and mortality. Food insecurity with its resultant undernutrition contributes to HIV/AIDS-related deaths. Undernourished PLWHA are more prone to opportunistic infections due to poor immunity. Interestingly, proper diet intake can boost immunity, slow the progression of AIDS and opportunistic infections, enhance body weight, and retard depression tendencies. Undernutrition can also be ameliorated by incorporating nutritional counseling and oral nutrient supplementation in routine HIV/AIDS checkups. Therefore, to increase HIV/AIDS management outcomes, the integration of nutrition counseling, dietary supplements, and mental health services should be embraced. Thus, HIV/AIDS care centers should amplify these services. In this article, we isolated relevant studies from various databases, illuminated the interwoven relationship between HIV/AIDS, depression, and undernutrition, and also reemphasized the need for adequate nutritional intervention in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Thus, this study provides a reawakening call to focus on incorporating nutritional guides and mental health care in HIV/AIDS management protocols. Abbreviations: AIDS = acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, ART = antiretroviral therapy, CD4 = cluster of differentiation, HIV = human immunodeficiency virus, PLWHA = people living with HIV/AIDS.
Cogent Food & Agriculture, 2023
One of the prominent complications observed in those undergoing treatment with methotrexate (MTX)... more One of the prominent complications observed in those undergoing treatment with methotrexate (MTX) is hematological profile alterations which could culminate in severe anemia. In this study, we assessed the hematological profile indices in MXT-treated rats and the effect of leaf extract of Datura stramonium (LEDS) supplementation in MXT-treated rats. Ethanol (98%) was the solvent used in extraction. Animals were divided at random into four groups. Animals in group 1 received normal saline (5 mg/kg) orally and feeding was limitless and did not receive MXT. Animals in group 2 were given LEDS orally (200 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days while group 3 received 20 mg/kg body weight (bw) of MXT on day 18 via the intra-peritoneum without LEDS. Rats in group 4 were given the extract (200 mg/kg bw) and also injected with 20 mg/kg bw of MXT on day 18 of the study via the intra-peritoneum. Serum levels of hemoglobin, red blood
cells, packed cell volume, total white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and platelets were determined. Rats treated with MXT had notable depletion in hemoglobin, red blood cells, packed cell volume, total white blood cells, neutrophils, and platelets, unlike the control group. Interestingly, LEDS supplementation markedly restored the altered
hematological profiles. MXT injection caused hematological dysfunction while co-supplementation with LEDS restored the impaired hematological indices. Therefore, LEDs could be a promising tool in arresting hematological dysfunctions accompanying MXT chemotherapy. However, we advocate for further prospective scrutiny.
Medicine, 2023
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate int... more Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a public health challenge that can degenerate into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if not properly managed. HIV infection shortens life expectancy to about 5 to 10 years compared to noninfected individuals. People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are prone to several health challenges as a result of a deranged immune system culminating in high morbidity and mortality. Depression is a common feature of PLWHA. Depression heightens the emergence of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected individuals, accelerates the progression to AIDS, and increased suicidal tendencies, morbidity, and mortality. Food insecurity with its resultant undernutrition contributes to HIV/AIDS-related deaths. Undernourished PLWHA are more prone to opportunistic infections due to poor immunity. Interestingly, proper diet intake can boost immunity, slow the progression of AIDS and opportunistic infections, enhance body weight, and retard depression tendencies. Undernutrition can also be ameliorated by incorporating nutritional counseling and oral nutrient supplementation in routine HIV/AIDS checkups. Therefore, to increase HIV/AIDS management outcomes, the integration of nutrition counseling, dietary supplements, and mental health services should be embraced. Thus, HIV/AIDS care centers should amplify these services. In this article, we isolated relevant studies from various databases, illuminated the interwoven relationship between HIV/AIDS, depression, and undernutrition, and also reemphasized the need for adequate nutritional intervention in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Thus, this study provides a reawakening call to focus on incorporating nutritional guides and mental health care in HIV/AIDS management protocols. Abbreviations: AIDS = acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, ART = antiretroviral therapy, CD4 = cluster of differentiation, HIV = human immunodeficiency virus, PLWHA = people living with HIV/AIDS.
International Journal of Innovative and Applied Research, 2023
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world ... more The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is one of the health burdens ravaging the world with severe impact in developing regions. Women and young girls are more threatened by HIV infection than their male counterparts. Notably, in 2022, 63% of all new HIV infections were attributed to women in sub-Saharan Africa. The anatomical architecture of the female genital tracts, poverty, gender imbalance, unrefined cultural norms aimed at subjugating women, early exposure to sex and marriage, and illiteracy are fingered to contribute to the increased risk of HIV infection in women and young girls. Mitigating these factors will no doubt help curb the prevalence of HIV infection. Herein, we highlighted some measures that could help turn down women’s risk of getting HIV including abstinence, regular use of condoms, delay in sexual exposure, maintaining one faithful partner, timely voluntary counseling and testing, formal education, monitoring of alcohol use, proper dieting, and scrapping of cultural norms targeted at subjugating women. Successfully turning down HIV infection risk in women and young girls will be a breakthrough in the combat against HIV infection since women and young girls being the most vulnerable group must have been salvaged. This paper reviewed the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in women and young girls, the factors fueling the high prevalence, and enumerated key areas to target in order to minimize this menace. Related published data from various databases were utilized.
Avicenna Journal of Medical Biochemistry, 2023
In recent years, there has been a growing rise in the use of medicinal plants because they are u... more In recent years, there has been a growing rise in the use of medicinal plants because they are useful natural resources and are regarded as potentially safe drugs (1). These plants have been analyzed for various pharmacological roles, including biological, antimicrobial (2), and hypoglycemic functions (3). The medicinal properties of plants depend on chemical compounds that generate specific physiological actions (4-6). About 60% of the total global population relies on medicinal plant use for healthcare maintenance (7). Datura has been popular among traditional Chinese and Indian systems of Medicare for ages (8). It is used for the management of pain, fever, asthma, ulcer, and bronchitis (9). Excessive intake of Datura stramonium can cause hallucinations and death due to its high alkaloid content (2,10,11). Several pharmacological and ethnomedicinal uses of this plant abound. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (12) and stimulatory effects on the central nervous system, the enhancement of the respiratory tract, and also the maintenance of healthy teeth and skin (13). D. stramonium is rich in compounds with anticholinergic effects and hence can be used in treating symptoms related to organophosphate intoxication (14). Every part of D. stramonium is toxic; however, D. stramonium ripe seeds are the most toxic part (2,10,15). The unpalatable effects of its toxicity can be extremely deleterious. Thus, prior knowledge of its toxicity and dosage is essential. Vitamins are organic molecules that perform an array of
Newport International Journal of Research in Medical Science, 2023
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. HIV is still ravaging developin... more Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. HIV is still ravaging developing countries despite concerted efforts towards its eradication. HIV infection, and its treatment with antiretroviral increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These duos of cardiovascular diseases and HIV are more prevalent in developing countries, especially the sub-Saharan regions of Africa. Thus, they are considered inimical to the development of the sub-Saharan African region. Effacing these duos can scale down the health and economic burden orchestrated by them thereby accelerating the development of the sub-Saharan African region. In this paper, we shall illuminate the alliance between HIV infection, antiretroviral drug use, and cardiovascular risk, as well as proffer deflect measures to this imbroglio. A systematic search of already published studies shall be utilized.
Newport International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2023
The emergence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has p... more The emergence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has posed a global threat to human health, economy, and longevity of life. Corollary, the search for treatment has been an extensive one and several breakthroughs have been made. However, prevention of HIV/AIDS is more economical than treatment and hence has been intensely advocated. Several measures have been championed by different groups. Worthy of note is the role of religious leaders in the dissemination of management and preventive measures for HIV/AIDS due to their exalted societal status and access to a large audience. Despite the gigantic strides made by religious leaders in curbing this menace, there are still some drawbacks. In this paper, we shall succinctly highlight the impacts made by religious leaders toward the annihilation of HIV/AIDS
Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Dec 30, 2022
Physicochemical properties of soil samples from Ikwo LGA of Ebonyi State were investigated for th... more Physicochemical properties of soil samples from Ikwo LGA of Ebonyi State were investigated for their impact on mineral composition of cassava samples. Standard methods were used for analyses. Sixteen soil samples and eight cassava samples were used for the research. The results of the soil physicochemical analysis were sand 67.73%, silt 16.77%, clay 15.5%, pH 7.45, organic carbon 1.62%, organic matter 2.79%, exchangeable acidity (EA) 1.13 mg/kg, effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) 9.71 mg/kg and base saturation (BS) 88.39 %, for topsoil. For subsoil, sand 60.73 %, silt 17.27 %, clay 22.00 %, pH 5.32, organic carbon 1.15 %, organic matter 1.98 %, EA 1.14 mg/kg, ECEC 9.23 mg/kg and BS 87.38 %. The soil texture was sandy loam for the top and subsoil. The result of soil mineral analyses (mg/kg) were Ca 5.20, Mg 3.00, K 0.19, Na 0.18, P 55.35 and N 0.15 for topsoil; while those of subsoil were Ca 5.07, Mg 2.67, K 0.17, Na 0.18, P 41.68 and N 0.11. The result of soil heavy metal analysis (mg/kg) showed that all the heavy metals are within EPA Standard. The result of the cassava mineral analysis (mg/kg) were Ca 3.76, Mg 1.19, K 0.849, Na 0.24-0.26, N 1.05 and P 0.46. The result of cassava heavy metal analysis (mg/kg) showed that all the heavy metals are within EPA Standard. There was correlation between the soil physicochemical properties and the mineral concentrations of the cassava samples. There was also correlation between the soil physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentration of the cassava samples.
Journal of Xenobiotics
The fight against malaria is a continuum as the epidemic is not abating. For proper deployment of... more The fight against malaria is a continuum as the epidemic is not abating. For proper deployment of tools in the fight against malaria, an assessment of the situation is necessary. This work assessed the level of antimalarial drug treatment failure in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Both survey and in vitro analyses were adopted. The survey was used to obtain qualitative information from both the malaria subjects and the pharmacies where antimalarial drugs are sourced. The results from the survey were complemented by an in vitro assay of the level of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the commonly used artemisinin combination in Nigeria; artemether/lumefantrine. Results from the survey revealed that artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs) remain the mainstay in the treatment of malaria, even though other non-artemisinin drugs are still used. It also revealed that many patients still self-medicate, although, this may not be connected to the treatment failure seen among some malaria su...
RPS Pharmacy and Pharmacology Reports
ObjectivesMethotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used anti-cancer drug. However, its usage could lead t... more ObjectivesMethotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used anti-cancer drug. However, its usage could lead to various biochemical dysregulations culminating in organ toxicity. Globally, most plant products have been used for the treatment of several diseases. Thus, we investigated the effect of Datura stramonium ethanolic leaf extract (DSELE) supplementation in MXT-induced biochemical alterations in rats.MethodsRats were divided into four groups: Group 1 received normal saline (5 mg/kg b. w), Group 2 received DSELE (200 mg/kg), Group 3 received 20 mg/kg MXT while rats in Group 4 received 200 mg/kg + MTX 20 mg/kg. Normal saline and DSELE were administered per os for 21 days while MXT single injection was given intraperitoneally on day 18 and the rats were sacrificed after 3 days. Thereafter, biochemical parameters were evaluated.Key findingsMTX caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in serum activities of liver enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP) and levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipo...
RPS Pharmacy and Pharmacology Reports
OBJECTIVES The anti-nutritional composition and Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) anal... more OBJECTIVES The anti-nutritional composition and Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of ethanol root extract and fractions of Sphenocentrum jollyanum (SJ) were carried out. METHODS The anti-nutritional factors and GC-MS were analyzed using standard methods. KEY FINDINGS The anti-nutritional constituents of the samples were in the order of phenols> terpenoids>flavonoids>tannins>glycosides>alkaloids>hydrogen cyanide>saponins>steroids. The phytochemicals were significantly (P<0.05) higher in extract than fractions, the terpenoids value obtained as 1904.72mg/100g from ethanol extract is significantly higher (P<0.05) than the values of 935.80mg/100g and 968.92 mg/100g gotten from it ethylacetate and methanol fractions respectively. There is no significant difference (P>0.05) for the ethylacetate 0.74 mg/100g and methanol 0.79 mg/100g fractions of steroids. However, the methanol fraction of Tannins, Phenols, Glycosides, Saponins, and Hydro...
Food Science & Nutrition
This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable... more This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable of alleviating BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the effects of CMSO on adipokine dysfunctions and dyslipidemia in bisphenol-A (BPA)-induced male Wistar rats. Six-week-old 36 albino rats of 100–200 g weight were assigned randomly to six groups, which received varied doses of BPA and/or CMSO. The administration of BPA and CMSO was done at the same time for 42 days by oral intubation. The adipokine levels and lipid profile were measured in adipose tissue and plasma using standard methods. BPA induced significant (p < .05) increases in triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices in adipose tissue and plasma, as well as a decrease in adiponectin and HDL-C levels in Group II animals. BPA administration significantly (p < .05) elevated Leptin levels and reduced adiponectin levels. BPA plus CMSO reduced triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices while increasing adiponectin levels and HDL-C in adipose tissue and plasma (p < .05). The results showed that BPA exposure increased adipose tissue as well as serum levels of the atherogenic index, triglycerides, cholesterol, coronary risk index, LDL-C, leptin, and body weight with decreased adiponectin levels and HDL-C. Treatment with CMSO reduced the toxicities caused by BPA in rats by modulating the body weight, adiponectin/leptin levels, and lipid profiles in serum and adipose tissue. This study has shown that CMSO ameliorates BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunctions. We suggest for further clinical trial to establish the clinical applications.
Food Science & Nutrition, 2023
This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable... more This study demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) capable of alleviating BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the effects of CMSO on adipokine dysfunctions and dyslipidemia in bisphenol-A (BPA)-induced male Wistar rats. Six-week-old 36 albino rats of 100–200 g weight were assigned randomly to six groups, which received varied doses of BPA and/or CMSO. The administration of BPA and CMSO was done at the same time for 42 days by oral intubation. The adipokine levels and lipid profile were measured in adipose tissue and plasma using standard methods. BPA induced significant (p < .05) increases in triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices in adipose tissue and plasma, as well as a decrease in adiponectin and HDL-C levels in Group II animals. BPA administration significantly (p < .05) elevated Leptin levels and reduced adiponectin levels. BPA plus CMSO reduced triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, LDL-C, and atherogenic and coronary risk indices while increasing adiponectin levels and HDL-C in adipose tissue and plasma (p < .05). The results showed that BPA exposure increased adipose tissue as well as serum levels of the atherogenic index, triglycerides, cholesterol, coronary risk index, LDL-C, leptin, and body weight with decreased adiponectin levels and HDL-C. Treatment with CMSO reduced the toxicities caused by BPA in rats by modulating the body weight, adiponectin/leptin levels, and lipid profiles in serum and adipose tissue. This study has shown that CMSO ameliorates BPA-induced dyslipidemia and adipokine dysfunctions. We suggest for further clinical trial to establish the clinical applications.
Food Science & Nutrition
There has been increasing search for the ameliorative properties of seed oils against toxicants. ... more There has been increasing search for the ameliorative properties of seed oils against toxicants. bisphenol A acts as an estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemical capable of causing male infertility. This study aimed to explore Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil effects against mitochondrial damage in rats using bisphenol A. Forty-eight rats were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 6) of eight rats each and fed the same food and water for 6 weeks. The group A rats were given 1 mL olive oil, while the ones in group B were given bisphenol A at 100 mL/kg body weight via oral route. Group C received C. mannii seed oil 7.5 mL/kg body weight C. mannii seed oil, while group D, group E, and group F were pre-administered bisphenol A at 100 mL/kg body weight, followed by treatment with C. mannii seed oil at 7.5, 5, and 2.5 mL/kg body weight, respectively. Antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, reactive oxygen species, testicular volume, malondialdehyde, body weight, and testicular studies were done using standard methods. The results of the bisphenol A-administered group showed a significant decrease in the antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, body weight, and testicular volume with elevation in the levels of reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and testicular indices. BPA + CMSO-treated group showed a significant increase in GPx activity compared with BPA-exposed rats. CMSO treatment significantly increased catalase activity in comparison with that of rats exposed to BPA. Remarkably, C. mannii seed oil and bisphenol A co-administration significantly reversed the abnormalities observed in the dysregulated biochemical biomarkers. Our findings suggest that C. mannii seed oil has considerable antioxidant potential which can be explored in therapeutic development against systemic toxicity induced by exposure to bisphenol A. Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil protects against bisphenol A-induced testicular mitochondria damages.
Patrick M Aja, 2023
The global burden of malaria seems unabated. Africa carries the greatest burden accounting for ov... more The global burden of malaria seems unabated. Africa carries the greatest burden accounting for over 95% of the annual cases
of malaria. For the vision of a world free of malaria by Global Technical Strategy to be achieved, Africa must take up the stakeholder’s
role. It is therefore imperative that Africa rises up to the challenge of malaria and champion the fight against it. The fight
against malaria may just be a futile or mere academic venture if Africans are not directly and fully involved. This work reviews
the roles playable by Africans in order to curb the malaria in Africa and the world at large.
International Digital Organization for Scientific Research (IDOSR) JOURNAL OF APPLIED SCIENCES, 2023
Medicinal plants contain numerous biologically active compounds such as minerals which have physi... more Medicinal plants contain numerous biologically active compounds such as minerals which have physiological actions on the human body. This work was designed to analyse the mineral composition of Datura stramonium (D. stramonium) leaf and seed extracts. Dry leaves and seeds of D. stramonium were pulverized. The powdered sample was used for the extraction using 98% ethanol. Standard methods were used in the determination of the mineral contents. The study result showed the order of trace minerals composition of D. stramonium leaves and seed were as follows: Fe>Cu>Mn>Zn>Ni>Co and Cu>Fe>Zn>Mn>Ni>Co, respectively. The result showed higher value of trace minerals in D. stramonium leaves than the seed. There were significant difference (p<0.05) in the trace elements levels of the leaves and seeds with the leaves having higher mineral levels than the seed. The result also showed that macro minerals of D. stramonium leaves and seed were in this order: Mg>Ca>K>P. D. stramonium leaves had higher quantities of macro mineral than the seeds. D. stramonium leaves and seed used for this study have proved to be very important in drug research and development, because of the mineral composition that are present in appreciable amount. These minerals could contribute to the various pharmacological attributes of this plant. However, further research is necessary to determine other bioactive constituents present in this plant and their mechanism of action.
IAA Journal of Biological Sciences, 2023
The study of natural products has given rise to the discovery of a variety of useful drugs for ef... more The study of natural products has given rise to the discovery of a variety of useful drugs for effective management of several diseases. Phytochemical constituents of plants are fingered to be biologically active compounds responsible for different activities such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal and anticancer. Thus, assessment of phytochemical constituents of plants is of utmost importance in medicine. There is however paucity of information on the comparative assessment of leaves and seeds of Datura stramonium (D. stramonium). Therefore, the present study was carried out to compare the phytochemical constituents of D. stramonium leaves and seeds. Ethanol was used for the extraction using standard method. Phytochemical screening was performed using various quantitative methods. The ratio of leaves versus seeds of phytochemical quantitative analysis was as follows: saponins (65.25: 34.25 mg/g), alkaloids (32.10: 71.28 mg/g), flavonoids (44.24: 30.12 mg/g), terpenoids (32.68:30.20 mg/g), tannins (31.25:26.62), respectively. This implies that saponins were dominant compounds followed by flavonoids and terpenoids in leaves while alkaloids were the dominant phytochemical in seeds. Based on our results, it is concluded that leaf and seed extracts of D. stramonium have varying concentrations of phytochemicals with the seed having higher concentration of alkaloids justifying why the seed is more toxic than the leaves while leaf extract had highest concentration of saponins and flavonoids giving credence to the antioxidant property of the leaves. Good quantity of various phytochemicals in this plant justifies its traditional use in the treatment of various diseases.
IAA Journal of Biological Sciences, 2023
Poor control of diabetes mellitus can result to impairment in lipid profile culminating to dyslip... more Poor control of diabetes mellitus can result to impairment in lipid profile culminating to dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and stroke. Measurement of triglyceride (TAG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are recommended in cardiovascular screening. Herbal and natural products have been used in folk medicine for centuries throughout the world. The aim of this research was to determine the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile of streptozotocin-induced diabetic wistar albino rats. All the chemicals and reagents used in this research were of analytical grade. A total of 48 rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=8): diabetic rats in group 1 were not treated, rather received only 0.5ml normal saline; 0.5mg glibenclamide was given to diabetic rats in group 2; nondiabetic rats in group 3 received 0.5ml normal saline only, diabetic rats that were treated with 250 mg/kg, 350mg/kg and 450mg/kg b.w of ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata, were labeled groups 4, 5 and 6, respectively. At the end of the 21 days study period, the rats were fasted overnight and blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture. Lipid profile was assayed using standard biochemical methods. Injection of streptozotocin led to a significant (p<0.05) decline in HDL-C while the levels of TAG, TC, and LDL-C increased significantly. Remarkably, treatment with 250 mg/kg, 350mg/kg and 450mg/kg b.w of ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata led to reversal of the altered lipid profile. However, there were no significant differences (p>0.05) when the Chromolaena odorata extract-treated groups were compared to group 2 rats (treated with glibenclamide), a known standard antidiabetic drug. In conclusion, results from this research indicated that the ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata possess hypo-cholesterolaemic and hypotriacylglycerolaemic effects as the extract decreased the LDL-cholesterol and increased the HDL-cholesterol levels.