THE EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF CYPERUS ESCULENTUS ON SOME LIVER FUNCTIONAL INDICES IN RABBIT

International Journal of Basic, Applied and Innovative Research IJBAIR, 2014, 3(1): 8 - 13

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RESEARCH PAPER;

THE EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF CYPERUS ESCULENTUS ON SOME

LIVER FUNCTIONAL INDICES IN RABBIT

*1Ebojele F.O. and 1Ezenwanne E.B.

Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical sciences, University of Benin, Benin city, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: fredojele78@yahoo.com

Received: 16th December, 2013 Accepted: 24th February, 2014 Published: 31th March, 2014

ABSTRACT

Twenty-five (25) adult female rabbits were employed to study the possible effects of aqueous extract of Cyperus esculentus on some liver functional indices. The rabbits were divided into five groups (A, B, C, D and E) of five animals each with group A serving as control. The experimental groups (B, C, D and E) received daily oral doses of 12.5mg, 25mg, 50mg and 100mg per kg of body weight of the extract respectively for a period of four weeks. Weekly estimate of serum alanine aminotransferase(ALT), aspartate aminotransferase(AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were carried out. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA and the results were expressed as Mean  SEM, with p-values of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. The results revealed significant increase in serum ALT, AST, and ALP concentrations in group E at the end of the experiment. It was concluded that the observed increase in serum levels of these enzymes indicate that Cyperus esculentus may have some clearly definable hepatotoxic properties, probably, if taken in large quantities and for a prolonged period.

Keywords: Cyperus esculentus, Liver, Rabbit, Aqueous extract, Enzymes.

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INTRODUCTION

Cyperus esculentus, also known as ‘Tiger nut’ in local parlance, is a plant of the family Cyperaceae. The plant produces rhizomes from the base and tubers that are somewhat spherical (Cortes et al., 2005), and is also known by various names like yellow nutsedge, Chufa (a Spanish name), Earth Almond, Rush nut, Flatsedge, Water grass, Zulu nut, Nut grass, and edible rush (Shilenko et al., 1979; Eteshola and Oraedu, 1996). The nut of this plant is known by various local languages in Nigeria as ‘Aya’ in Hausa, ‘Imumu’ in Yoruba, and ‘Ofio’ or ‘Aki Hausa’ in Ibo (Omode et al., 1995). The nuts can be eaten raw, roasted, dried, baked or made into a refreshing beverage called ‘kunnu’ in Hausa language (Oladele and Aina, 2007).

Cyperus esculentus is valued for the highly nutritional starch content, dietary fibre and digestible carbohydrate of monosaccharides, disaccharides and polysaccharides (Temple et al., 1990). The nut was also reported to be rich in sucrose, protein, minerals and fat, which are resistant to peroxidation (Rita, 2009). It was also reported that Cyperus esculentus can be taken by diabetics mainly for its sucrose and starch, and for its high content of arginine which is reported to stimulate the production of insulin (Belewu and Belewu, 2007). The plant was shown to be nutritious, and possesses anti-sickling activity and may therefore be helpful in the management of sickle cell patients (Monago and Uwakwe, 2009). One other study showed that Cyperus esculentus content of arginine (an antisickling amino acid) is very high (Nwaoguikpe and Nwazue, 2010). This fact is potentially of immense benefit as an anti-sickling agent in inhibiting sickle cell hemoglobin polymerization, improvement of the oxidant status of sickle erythrocytes

and improvement of the oxygen affinity. Thus, Cyperus esculentus is probably of profound nutritional value as it possesses antisickling properties for the effective treatment and management of anemia, kwashiokor, thalassemia, sickle cell disease and their complications (Nwaoguikpe and Nwazue, 2010). These and several other reports led some group of workers to understudy the phytochemical composition of Cyperus esculentus tuber, following which it was determined that it contains Alkaloids, Cyanogenic glycosides, Resins, Tannins, Sterols, and Saponins (Ekeanyanwu et al., 2010).

There was a study of the possible effect of Cyperus esculentus on heart diseases and related conditions. In their report, the nuts were found to be ideal for children, the elderly, and sportsmen and women as a result of its cholesterol lowering properties (Martinez, 2003). There is a report that the consumption of the oil from Cyperus esculentus tuber decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases because of the low content of saturated fatty acid (Burn et al., 2004). It was also reported to help in preventing thrombosis, and the tuber was also implicated in the reduction of colon cancer (Adejuyitan et al., 2009). There is paucity of information from literature on the effect of Cyperus esculentus on liver function. It was therefore the aim of the present study to determine the effect of aqueous extract of Cyperus esculentus on some liver functional indices in rabbit.

Anthonio Research Center © 2014 8 Ebojele and Ezenwanne, IJBAIR; 3 (1): 8-13

ASN-PH-020919

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ASSESSMENT OF THE BIRTH AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS LEVEL OF PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CARE IN A PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CENTRE IN JOS, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

International Journal of Basic, Applied and Innovative Research IJBAIR, 2014, 3(1): 2 - 7

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RESEARCH PAPER

ASSESSMENT OF THE BIRTH AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS LEVEL OF

PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CARE IN A PRIMARY HEALTH

CARE CENTRE IN JOS, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

*1Envuladu E.A and 1Zoakah A.I.

Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Jos.

Corresponding author: esvula@yahoo.com

Received: 21st December, 2013 Accepted: 22nd February, 2014, Published: 31th March, 2014

ABSTRACT

Birth preparedness helps ensure that women can access professional delivery care when labor begins and reduces the delay that occurs when women experience obstetric complications. This cross sectional study was aimed at assessing the birth and emergency preparedness level of 250 pregnant women attending Antenatal Care (ANC) in a Primary Health Care (PHC) in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. The subjects were selected through a systematic sampling technique and the data was analyzed using SPSS version 17 statistical software, and the results were presented in tables. The results showed that 161(64.4%) identified a place of delivery, 210(84%) said they wanted to deliver in the hospital, while 40(16%) choose home as their preferred place. 135 (54%) made arrangement for transportation, while 115(46%) did not. Only 58(23.2%) of the pregnant women made arrangements for blood donation, while majority (83.6%) of the women saved money for the purchase of delivery items. The

finding s of this study suggests therefore, that a large proportion of the pregnant women did not prepare for childbirth and emergencies especially the prior arrangement for transportation and blood donation.

Key words: Birth, emergency, preparedness, danger signs, pregnant women

______________________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTION

While there is no universal definition for birth-preparedness, many packages that address birth preparedness promote the following: preparation for normal birth by selecting a place of delivery with a skilled birth attendant; preparation of essential items for delivery such as a clean delivery kit; knowledge of danger signs for mother and newborn and when to seek help; knowledge of where and to whom to go to for help; arranging access to funds and means for emergency transportation and medical care; and prior identification of blood donor (Baltimore, 2004; Moor, 2006). Generally, birth preparedness is a strategy to promote the timely use of skilled maternal care, especially during childbirth, by relying on the theory that preparing for childbirth reduces delays in obtaining quality care.

One of the major reasons for the high maternal death recorded in the developing countries especially in sub Saharan Africa is the inadequacy or lack of birth and emergency preparedness, which is a key component of globally accepted safe motherhood programs. Birth preparedness helps ensure that women can reach professional delivery care when labor begins and reduces the delays that occur when women experience obstetric complications (WHO, 2005; Hogan et al., 2010; Stanton, 2004).

The current shift from the “at risk” or “high risk pregnant” women to seeing that every pregnant woman is “at risk” because of unpredictable complications like hemorrhage, which is highly fatal if timely treatment is not obtained. This makes the package of birth and emergency preparedness a very important strategy in developing countries like Nigeria, where obstetric services are poor and obstetric referrals are usually women of low status, contributing significantly to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality (Kaye et al., 2003). Maternal deaths are thought to occur due to three delays: delay in deciding to seek appropriate care; delay in reaching an appropriate health facility and delay in receiving adequate emergency care once at a facility. The first two delays may be reduced if pregnant women are prepared for birth and complications (WHO, 1996).

The study therefore, is designed to assess the birth and emergency preparedness level of pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in Jos north Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria.

Anthonio Research Center © 2014 2 Envuladu and Zoakah, IJBAIR; 3 (1): 2-7.

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INNOVATION AS A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SOLUTION TOOL TO SOLVING NIGERIA’S CHALLENGES

International Journal of Basic, Applied and Innovative Research IJBAIR, 2014, 3(1): 1

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EDITORAL COMMENT

INNOVATION AS A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SOLUTION TOOL TO SOLVING NIGERIA’S CHALLENGES

Nwaopara A.O., PhD, FIIA

Published: 31th March, 2014

For centuries, challenges have remained a strong reason for solution-seeking. It might be economic, academic, financial, health, religious, social, political, and security challenges. By implication therefore, challenges of different shades can be an issue for individuals, institutions, families, communities, nations, continents, and the world at large. Of course in searching for a solution, several short term or long term strategies are deployed. What matters however, is how effective the strategy deployed is. Usually, hastily thought-out strategies are deployed and such hasty strategies might either incubate the challenges and worsen it, or set it up onto the solution path. Alternatively, the challenge can be studied carefully for a better understanding on the best solution strategy to apply; often times requiring an innovative approach. Indeed, the power of innovation has been recognized worldwide and several innovative strategies have been developed in solving economic, technological, financial, educational, and security challenges. Overall, innovative-laden solution strategies requires a deep understanding of the challenge and a thorough rehearsal of the well researched solution strategy, as well as a complete domination of the challenge in order to develop definite and effective preventive measures. Imagine then the half-measures deployed in solving the myriad challenges facing Nigeria like her political and cooperative governance in shambles; the civil service and education sector yearning for direction stability; the corruption and insecurity challenges swallowing the nation; the injustice and impunity becoming the order of the day; and the relatively non-existent social services. Yet, a lot of the nation’s wealth is being squandered on the alter of missing funds; ‘white-elephant projects; travelling and wardrobe allowances; refurnishing of already refurnished government owned houses; security votes that are statutorily not audited, road projects that are repeated in subsequent budgets and/or duplicated in same budget; constituency projects; debatable legislative remunerations that had appeared mysterious; remuneration for countless political aids whose functions appears duplicated; and tax-like payments to political god fathers amongst others. Although some Nigerian administrators are genuinely making efforts to salvage the country from her self induced socio-political ‘tsunami’, one wonders however, what goes on in the minds of those mismanaging the affairs of Nigeria? Are they allergic to genuine/innovative ways of tackling the challenges facing Nigeria? Are they not aware that some of their actions and inactions have contributed towards worsening the challenges facing Nigeria? Don’t they know that there are better and effective ways of doing things? In fact, the application of the basic principles of innovation towards providing solutions to the countless challenges facing Nigeria, especially the challenges of insecurity, severe unemployment rate, political instability, generalized intolerance, corruption and fraud of all shades, has become inevitable, as innovation-power remains that multidimensional solution tool that can confine the litany of Nigeria’s challenges in the history books.

Anthonio Research Center © 2014 1 Nwaopara, IJBAIR; 3 (1): 1

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THE INCIDENCE OF HUMAN INDUCED COMMUNITY ROAD DILAPIDATION: A CASE STUDY OF EKPOMA, EDO- NIGERIA

International Journal of Community Research

http://www.arpjournals.com

ISSN: 2315 – 6562 E-ISSN: 2384 - 6828

Nwaopara and Blackies, IJCR 2014; 3(3): 80-85.

THE INCIDENCE OF HUMAN INDUCED COMMUNITY ROAD DILAPIDATION:

A CASE STUDY OF EKPOMA, EDO- NIGERIA

1,2,3Nwaopara, A.O; 2,3Blackies, H.O.T

1Anthonio Research Center, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria; 2Department of Anatomy, Ambrose Alli University,

Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria; Innovative Science Research, Foundation, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria.

Correspondence: nwaoparaao@yahoo.com

30th May, 2014 Accepted: 28th July, 2014 Published: 31st July, 2014

ABSTRACT

The manner by which community roads are been excavated without concerted efforts to seal them up properly, has indeed become a worrisome phenomenon. The irony is the fact that requisite government agencies and community leaders/youths are apparently indifferent to this phenomenon; especially in this era whereby communities across Nigeria are groaning over the general lack of basic amenities, dilapidated infrastructures, poor social welfare, endemic corruption, leadership crisis, political instability, insecurity and hopelessness. It is based on the obvious human and economic consequences of this trend that we set out to investigate such incidence in Ekpoma –a semi urban town in Edo State, Nigeria, known for her characteristic good road network. An on-the-spot assessment of the roads was conducted and our findings revealed that many roads in Ekpoma town have been excavated and left at the mercy of natural forces without tangible effort to seal them up properly. It is our recommendation therefore, that relevant government agencies/community leaders should be alive to their responsibilities, while perpetrators are encouraged to do the needful when the need for road excavation arises. Like the saying goes, a bird at hand is worth millions in the air and a stitch in time saves nine.

Key Words: Human development, Optic fibre cables, Street lights, Road dilapidation

INTRODUCTION

Prior to 1999, Nigerians barely communicated effectively with relatives, friends, business partners and associate. Although communication services existed, availability, effectiveness, and efficiency were descriptive words alien to that pre-1999 era (Arzika, 2000). But reprieve came when the federal government under former Nigerian president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, gave licenses to private mobile phone network providers and this triggered a wave of changes that had so far enhanced communication among Nigerians and the rest of the world (Balogun, 2000; Ndukwe, 2004; Ajala, 2005). Undoubtedly, the advent of Global System of Mobile communication (GSM) services in Nigeria, has contributed tremendously to most of the developmental changes and transformations recorded in Nigeria; especially in her economy and education sectors (Wojuade, 2006; Adomi, 2006). This great developmental tool has also become an instrument in the hands of retrogressive forces like criminals and terrorists, as such anti-societal forces can now communicate effectively to perpetrate their evil deeds and leave behind a trail of destructions. For instance, mobile phones have become detonating tools for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the hands of the members of Boko-Haram –a terrorists group threatening the peace and security of Nigeria (OSS, 2005; Nnochiri, 2011). Another disheartening trend denting the undeniable positive roles of GSM in Nigeria, is the manner by which mobile network service providers are undertaking the laying of optic fibre cables across lands and roads all over Nigeria without apparent efforts to seal them up properly; particularly the excavated tarred roads, thereby laying foundations for road dilapidation. This developmentally-related but apparently destructive activity has also been observed in the excavation of road-sides (to lay light cables) by contractors awarded street lights contracts. Indeed, as several communities in Nigeria groan over the general lack of basic amenities, dilapidated infrastructures, poor social welfare, endemic corruption, leadership crisis, political instability, insecurity and hopelessness, it is retrogressive therefore, to destroy the few existing infrastructures in the name of these so-called developmental projects. Okunna (2002) had earlier asserted that development should bring positive changes and should be for the majority of the people. Moreover the fact that relevant government agencies appear in different to this phenomenon literarily makes it indeed, an unfortunate bitter pill to swallow. Of course, there are appropriate regulations and surely, regulatory bodies, put in place to check such activities where necessary, except if such government agencies saddled with the responsibility are not alive to their duties or have comprised to look the other way. What of the community leaders? What of the youths? Are they no longer interested in the goingson in their communities considering their trade-mark enforcement of compulsory levy payment by prospective developers? What of residents? Are they not observing the trend and the destructive potentials of such phenomenon? It is even more devastating to observe that some of these road destructive activities are occurring within the jurisdictions of Local Government Authorities who can barely maintain roads damaged by natural forces or even think of constructing new ones due to lack of funds (Aderamo and Magaji, 2010). Considering therefore, the obvious human and economic consequences of the trend in question, we set out to investigate the incidence of such phenomenon in Ekpoma –a semi urban town in Edo State, Nigeria, known for her characteristic good road network.

International Journal of Community Research http://www.arpjournals.com

ISSN: 2315 – 6562 E-ISSN: 2384 - 6828

Nwaopara and Blackies, IJCR 2014; 3(3): 80-85. 81

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EFFECT OF SALINE EXTRACT OF ALLIGATOR PEPPER (ZINGIBERACEAE AFRAMOMUM MELEGUETA) ON SERUM PROGESTERONE IN PREGNANT SPRAGUE DAWLEY RATS

International Journal of Herbs and Pharmacological Research IJHPR, 2014, 3(3): 46 – 51.

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RESEARCH PAPER

EFFECT OF SALINE EXTRACT OF ALLIGATOR PEPPER (ZINGIBERACEAE AFRAMOMUM MELEGUETA) ON SERUM PROGESTERONE IN PREGNANT SPRAGUE DAWLEY RATS

*1Inegbenebor, U. and 2Ebomoyi, M.

Department of 1Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria. 1Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author: druteinegbenebor@yahoo.com

Received: 9th June, 2014 Accepted: 28th July, 2014 Published: 31st July, 2014

ABSTRACT

This study was done to determine the cellular basis of the abortifacient effect of Alligator pepper on first trimester pregnancy using forty five female Sprague-Dawley rats mated with male rats for three days. Thereafter, the female rats were randomly selected into three groups, A, B and C. The rats in each group were further randomly selected into three subgroups A1, A2, A3; B1, B2, B3; and C1, C2 , C3 for groups A, B and C respectively. Each rat in group A was administered with intra-peritoneal injection of 2ml of normal saline, while each rat in groups B and C was administered with 6.7mg/kg and 13.3mg/kg/body weight of saline extract of Alligator pepper on day 4 of gestation respectively. Blood was collected from A1, B1, C1 on day 7; from A2, B2, C2 on day 14 and from A3, B3, C3 on day 21 by intra-ventricular aspiration and assayed for progesterone using ELISA technique. Results showed that progesterone level decreased significantly on days 7 and 21 of pregnancy among rats administered with 6.7mg/kg body weight, but day 7, only those treated with 13.3mg/kg /body weight of saline extract of Alligator pepper.

Alligator pepper is anti-progesterone.

Keywords: Saline extract, Alligator pepper, Progesterone, Sprague Dawley Rats, Pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Alligator pepper is a dietary spice used as food flavor enhancer in Nigeria and some other parts of the world. Alligator pepper contains an essential oil, which is volatile in nature, and is extractable by hydro-distillation from the seeds of Aframomum melegueta. Gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry have been used in characterizing 27 compounds, which constitute 98.6% of the essential oil (Ajaiyeoba and Ekundayo, 1999). These compounds include two sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, humelene and caryophyllene, which make up 82.6% of this volatile oil (Ajaiyeoba and Ekundayo, 1999). The oxides of humulene and caryophyllene constitute another 9% of the oil while 17 other mono and sesquiterpenes account for only one percent. Five non-terpenoids are detectable in trace amounts (< 0.2%) only (Ajaiyeoba and Ekundayo, 1999). Of interest is the fact that pregnant women indulges in such alligator pepper flavoured foods (like pepper soup), and the fact that granulated seeds of Alligator pepper has capacity to terminate first trimester pregnancy in Sprague Dawley rats (Inegbenebor et al., 2009a) in a manner similar to Mifepristone –a drug currently used alone or with misoprostol to induce emergency contraception and first trimester abortion (Clark et al., 2005). Mifepristone is in a class of medications called anti-progestational steroids (Hazra and Pore) that works by blocking the activity of progesterone (Medline Plus, 2014). This study was therefore carried out to determine if the mechanism of action of Alligator pepper in first trimester termination of pregnancy is similar to that of mifepristone and related to progesterone antagonism.

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E-ISSN: 2384-6836

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SEVERE MITRACARPUS SCARBER JUICE INDUCED FACIAL SKIN DISCOLOURATIONS: A CASE REPORT

International Journal of Herbs and Pharmacological Research IJHPR, 2014, 3(3): 52 – 58.

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CASE REPORT

SEVERE MITRACARPUS SCARBER JUICE INDUCED FACIAL SKIN DISCOLOURATIONS: A CASE REPORT

1,2Nwaopara A.O., 2,3Alufohai, P.I., 1Alufohai, D.I.; 1Nwaopara S.O.

1Anthonio Research Center, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria; Department of 2Anatomy, and 3Phyisiology, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding Author: nwaoparaao@yahoo.com

Received: 14th June, 2014 Accepted: 28th July, 2014 Published: 31st July, 2014

ABSTRACT

This is a case report on a 24-year old dark-skinned lady with incidence of facial skin discolorations secondary to the application of Mitracarpus scaber (MS) juice for the purpose of treating an emerging but unclassified facial skin blemishes. Investigations showed that after several failed attempts to treat the blemishes with two known antifungi creams, she was advised by friends to use the MS juice. She macerated some leaves of MS between her palms to obtain its juice and then applied it on her face. Minutes after, she experienced a burning sensation on her face which subsequently resulted in obvious facial discolourations 48 hours later; forcing her to stop the MS juice application. She was then advised by friends to use a combination herbal therapy comprising honey and Aloe vera. The combination therapy proved to be effective as the discolorations disappeared by the 5th day from onset. Although the precise type of skin blemish and the mechanisms associated with the observed skin discoloration were not determined, the bioactive constituents in Mitracarpus scaber juice may have played a major role; prompting this reminder that self-medication must be avoided especially the use of herbal medications if their appropriate doses have not been determined.

Key words: Facial Skin, Discoloration, Herbal therapy, Mitracarpus scaber, Self-Medication.

INTRODUCTION

The use of medicinal plants for the treatment of ailments is as old as human history and many drugs have been developed either as synthetic or refined components of agents in plants. Irrespective of the successes achieved using technology, the native people across different geographical terrains (especially developing countries) have indeed, continued to use herbs for the treatment of certain ailments, either as a result of poverty or probably due to the efficacy of the herbal products (Cordell and Colvard, 2005).

Available scientific information suggests that the medicinal value of plants lies in some chemical substances that produce a definite physiological action on the human body and the most important of these bioactive constituents are alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides and other phenolic compounds (Rojas et al., 1992). Amongst the myriad of therapeutic plants species, Mitracarpus scaber (coded MISCA), is among the species applied in the treatment of various ailments (Okuo et al., 2006; Zirihi et al., 2007). The plant family, Rubiaceae, which parades a long list of plants of medicinal importance, has Mitracarpus scaber “Zucc” as example (Oliver, 1959; Gill, 1992). The family consists of about 500 genera and 6,000 species distributed all over the world with some of them being tropical trees and shrubs (erect, struggling or twining) while few members are herbs (erect or decumbent) (Evans, 2002).

Specifically, Mitracarpus scaber is a perennial annual herb of about 30cm tall or much smaller and possess rough leaves (Olorode, 1984). In Nigeria, it is known as Obuobwa in Igbo language, Gududal in Hausa language (Hutchinson and Dalziel, 1948) and Irawo lle in Yoruba language (Gbile, 1984). It is claimed that Mitracarpus scaber possesses antimicrobial activities when crude extracts from the plant are used (Gill, 1992; Benjamin et al., 1986; Irobi and Daramola, 1994). Among the folkloric uses, the juice of the plant is applied topically for the treatment of skin diseases (infectious der-matitis, eczema and scabies) (Dalziel, 1936; Kerharo and Adam, 1974). Some pagan tribes use it as an ingredient in fish poison (Joklik et al., 1984).

Previous studies reported the isolation of pentalogin, from fresh aerial parts of Mitracarpus scaber, which demonstrated a potent antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Trichophytum soudanense (Moulis et al., 1992). In Senegal, the plant is used for the treatment of sore throat and leprosy in the same way as Cola cordifolia (Joklik et al., 1984). In Nigeria also, the juice from the crushed plant is known to be applied topically for the treatment of skin diseases such as ringworm, lice, itching, craw-craw and other fungi diseases; or applied to dressings for fresh cuts, wounds and ulcers (Fluck, 1976).

There is evidence also that the plant is an effective antifungal agent with capacity to revitalize areas of hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation (Van-wyk et al., 1997), while the crushed leaves can be used as dressing for fresh cuts, wounds and ulcers (Gill, 1992). Although several studies have been done on Mitracarpus scaber, the studies however, did not assess the side effects (toxic effects) of the juice hence forming the basis for this case report.

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THE HEPATO-PROTECTIVE POTENTIALS OF AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACT OF CASSIA OCCIDENTALIS AGAINST PARACETAMOL INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN ADULT WISTAR RATS

International Journal of Herbs and Pharmacological Research IJHPR, 2013, 2(2): 6 – 13.

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RESEARCH PAPER:

THE HEPATO-PROTECTIVE POTENTIALS OF AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACT OF CASSIA OCCIDENTALIS AGAINST PARACETAMOL INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN ADULT WISTAR RATS

*1Uzzi H.O. and 1Grillo, D.B.

1Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author: lovelyhenry01@yahoo.com

Received: 10th December, 2012 Accepted: 21st February, 2013 Published: 31st April, 2013

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the hepato-protective potentials of aqueous leaf extract of Cassia occidentalis on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in adult Wistar rats. Twenty adult rats weighing between 150 – 300g were used for this study. They were randomly divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D), whereby group A served as the control, while groups B, C and D served as test groups. Hepatotoxicity was induced in the test groups via oral administration of paracetamol (800mg/kg bw). However, while groups C and D were treated for 21 days with 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg/BW of Cassia occidentalis leaf extract respectively, group B was left untreated and served as the test control. Using standard laboratory procedures, the livers were harvested, histologically processed, and examined. Microscopy revealed normal histological hepatocytes in the control animals while those of test control were severe vascular congestion, periportal infiltrates of chronic inflammatory cells and periportal oedema. However, hepatic sections from groups C and D presented a dose dependent healing actions compared to the features observed for group B (untreated hepatotoxic group). Judging by these findings therefore, one can assert that aqueous leaves extract of Cassia occidentalis may be hepato-protective against hepatotoxicity.

Keywords: Cassia occidentalis, Hepatotoxicity, Paracetamol, Liver.

_____________________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTION

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in the treatment of pain, fever, and inflammation (Ozbakis Dengiz et al., 2007). Common amongst this class of drugs is Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, which has been reported to induce hepatic injury (Schnellman et al., 1999; Bessems and Vermeulen, 2001; Vermeulen et al., 1992). Certainly, the effect of paracetamol is not unexpected considering the fact that metabolism of chemicals occur largely in the liver (Kaplowitz, 1996), which surely may account for the organ’s susceptibility to metabolite-dependent/drug-induced injury. Worrisome however, is the fact that modern medicines have little to offer as regards alleviating hepatic diseases and the alternative, plant-based preparations are largely employed (Brattin et al., 1985). In line with this fact, Ayurvedic medicine is essentially promotive and preventive in therapeutic approach for treating liver disorders and as such, search for crude drugs of plant origin has become a central focus of study of hepatic protection (Ven kumar and Latha, 2002).

Available literature show that the drugs offered by modern medicine for the treatment of liver diseases such as corticosteroids and immuno-supressants, are said to provide only symptomatic relief; mostly without influencing the disease, and their use is associated with the risk of relapse and danger of side effects (Ram and Goel, 1999). However, in recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in herbal medicine in many parts of the world in view of the acclaimed therapeutic efficacy of many herbal preparations (Kolawole et al., 2006). In fact, Nuhu and Aliyu (2008) asserts that most rural dwellers rely on traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, and it is now generally believed that herbal medicine does not only agree with cultural and socio-economic peculiarities, but also symbolizes safety in contrast to conventional drugs (Taiwo et al., 2012). Hence, herbal medicine is becoming a focus for a wider coverage of primary health care delivery in Nigeria, Africa, India, China, and possibly, the rest of the world.

Of particular interest, is therapeutic potentials of Cassia occidentalis, which is commonly called ‘Dora rai’ in Hausa, ‘Akidi ogbara’ in Igbo, ‘Abo rere’ in Yoruba and ‘Coffee senna’ in English. It is said to belong to the family Leguminosae, sub family Caesalpinoidae, and botanically classified as both Cassia occidentalis and Senna occidentalis according to Egharevba et al. (2010). Extract of several parts of this plant has been widely reported for its pharmacological activities, which ranges from antibacterial, anti -histamine release, antiplatelet aggregation, memory protection and neuroprotection (Kim et al., 2007; Kitanaka et al., 1998; Sung et al., 2004). For example, the various classes of Cassia roots, flowers, seeds and leaves have been employed in herbal medicine for purposes such as laxatives, expectorants, antimalarias (Tons et al., 2001), relaxants (Ajagbonna et al., 2001), anti-inflammatory (Sadique et al., 1987), wound healing (Sheeba et al., 2009), and hepatoprotective potentials (Bhakta et al., 2001; Jafri et al., 1999; Usha et al., 2007).

Following suggestions on the protective potentials of Cassia occidentalis (Nadkarni, 1976), this study was designed therefore, to investigate the hepato-protective potentials of aqueous leaf extract of Cassia occidentalis in rats exposed to paracetamol induced liver injury.

 

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TOBACCO INDUCED RENAL FUNCTION ALTERATIONS IN WISTAR RATS: AN 8 WEEKS STUDY

International Journal of Herbs and Pharmacological Research IJHPR, 2013, 2(3): 29 – 35.

www.arpjournals.com

RESEARCH PAPER:

TOBACCO INDUCED RENAL FUNCTION ALTERATIONS IN WISTAR RATS: AN 8 WEEKS

STUDY

*1Okonkwo L.O., 2Dada F.L., 1Ugbor C.I., 3Nwadike I.G., 4Eze N.O., 4Ozougwu C.P.

Department of 1Medical Laboratory Science; 3Nursing Science; Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma-Nigeria. 2Chemical Pathology, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. 4Chemical Pathology, Enugu State University Teachinh Hospital, Park-Lane, Enugu, Nigeria.

Corresponding author: i.lilysky2013@gmail.com

Received: 13th April, 2013 Accepted: 28th June, 2013 Published: 31st July, 2013

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the effect of tobacco snuff on renal function using Wistar rat as a model. It involved adult rats (n=42) weighing 150-300g. They were assigned into a control group (A; n=6) and test groups B (n=12), C (n=12) and D (n=12). The groups were further divided into subgroups (1, 2, 3 and 4) representing durations of 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks respectively. The test groups were fed varying doses of tobacco snuff (tobacco plus potash). At the end of every 2 weeks, three randomly selected rats were prepared for blood sample collection into lithium heparin containers for laboratory analysis of creatinine, urea and uric acid. Results showed that creatinine levels of the test rats were higher than the control, but the recorded values were however, duration dependent. Interestingly, a similar but irregular pattern was observed for urea and uric acid levels. Over all, the significant increase (P<0.05) in renal function parameters of the test rats (as compared to the control values), suggests that the ingestion of tobacco snuff has harmful effects on kidney functions.

Keywords: Tobacco, Snuff, Kidney function, Nicotine substitute.

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INTRODUCTION

In the world today, the use of smokeless tobacco is quite popular in the Far East, Middle East, and Europe (Bates et al., 2003), with a rising trend in the United States of America (USA) (Changrani and Gany, 2005). In Nigeria however, the powdered form called ‘tobacco snuff’, has potash added to it to serve as additive. It is either inhaled (sniffed) through the nose or applied orally (Ureme et al., 2007). According to Aduema et al. (2012), it comes in two different forms- ‘Tobacco snuff’ and ‘Chewing tobacco’. Despite the awareness, that absorption of tobacco snuff is sometimes considered inefficient to provide an adequate nicotine substitute (Armitage et al., 1978; Turner et al., 1985), some have advocated its use as nicotine substitute for cigarette, since it is supposedly devoid of hazardous elements like tar and carbon monoxide (Russel et al., 1980).

Unfortunately, chronic absorption of nicotine from smokeless tobacco results in nicotine addiction (Hatsukami et al., 2004; Hatsukami and Severson, 1999 and PHS, 1998). Of greater concern however, is the fact that several scientific studies have reported that the phytochemical constituents of tobacco snuff is carcinogenic (IARC, 1985; Hecht et al., 1986; PHS, 1986; Brunnemann and Hoffmann, 1992; NCI, 1992; Hoffmann and Djordjevic, 1997 and IARC, 2007). According to Jorenby et al. (1998), the precise health effects of smokeless tobacco are uncertain but are not necessarily limited to oral cancers. Generally, smokeless tobacco has been associated with periodontal disease (Ernster et al., 1990; Fisher et al., 2005), precancerous oral lesions (Mattson and Winn, 1989), oral cancer (Stockwell 1986), and cancer of the kidney

ASN-PH-020919

ISSN: 2315-537X. 

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THE EFFECT OF XYLOPIA AETHIOPICA LEAVES ON BODY WEIGHT AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE

International Journal of Herbs and Pharmacological Research IJHPR, 2013, 2(2): 14 – 19.

www.antrescentpub.com

RESEARCH PAPER:

THE EFFECT OF XYLOPIA AETHIOPICA LEAVES ON BODY WEIGHT AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE

*1Obodo B.N., 2Iweka F.K.,1Obhakhan J.O., 3Oyadonghan G.P. 1Agbo G.E.

Department of 1Medical Laboratory Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma-Nigeria. 2Chemical Pathology; Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. Department of Anatomy, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State. Nigeria.

Corresponding Author: namecforme2@gmail.com

Received: 21st February, 2013 Accepted: 11th April, 2013 Published: 31st April, 2013

ABSTRACT

The effect of Xylopia aethiopica leaves on body weight and growth performance was studied on growing Wistar rats. The study involved twenty-four rats of comparable sizes and weights ranging from 150 to 300g and divided into four groups of six rats each. Group A served as the control while groups B, C and D served as the test and received 1.2g, 3.0g and 6.0g per day of Xylopia aethiopica leaves respectively for 21 days. The feed intake and weights of both the test animal and control were monitored weekly. Results showed that during the 21 days of Xylopia aethiopica leaves administrations, the control (Group A) had a greater mean body weight than those of the test groups. On growth performance, the average daily growth increased in the control but decreased in the test groups in a dose dependent manner. On the other hand, the feed conversion rate (FCR) was observed to decrease with time in the control compared to the test groups where it increased with time. Based on the findings of this study therefore, Xylopia aethiopica may possibly influence body weight and growth performances.

Keywords: Growth, Feed Conversion Rate, Body weight, Xylopia aethiopica, Plants.

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INTRODUCTION

Plants and derivatives of plants play a key role in health and have long been known to possess biological activity (Abass, 2012). It is a known fact that thirty percent of all modern drugs are derived from plants and available evidence suggests that approximately 80% of Africans rely on traditional healthcare practitioners and medicinal plants for their daily healthcare needs (Burns, 2000; Johnson et al., 2007; McKay et al., 2007). Also, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that almost 75% of the world's population has therapeutic experience with herbal remedies principally because of a belief that herbal remedies may have fewer side effects and can enhance the effects of conventional agents (Liu et al., 2007; Desai et al., 2009). Of interest is Xylopia aethiopica, commonly known as “African guinea pepper” or “Ethiopian pepper”. It is an angiosperm of the Annonaceae family, and grows predominantly in humid forest zones of West Africa (Puri and Talata 1978; Woode et al., 2011). In Nigeria, it is found all over the lowland rain forest and most fringe forest in the savannah zones (Sofowara, 1978). It is used as a pepper substitute in Europe and India (Sofowara, 1978) and highly valued in other countries because of its medicinal and pharmacological properties (Okeke et al., 2008). The fruits are used as spices and the aqueous decoctions are used especially after child birth, probably due to its antiseptic potential to arrest bleeding (Burkhill, 1985; Okeke et al., 2008).

Interestingly, compounds derived from plants could act as potential therapeutic weapons against various human, animal and even plant diseases, and this potential has made plants invaluable and indispensable to human and animal lives (Ogbonnia et al., 2008). Xylopia aethiopica is indeed a plant that has been widely used in traditional medicine and unfortunately, most herbal concoctions are not officially regulated like conventional drugs. This may account for the high prevalence of its misuse and abuse (Riddle, 1992; Onyeyili, 2000; Hashemi et al., 2008).

Beyond its therapeutic uses however, Xylopia aethiopica has been reported to be widely used as a food supplements (Sofowara, 1978; Evans, 2003; Okeke et al., 2008). Moreover, available evidence has shown that every food substance consumed by humans has either a therapeutic, nutritional or toxic effect on the body (Chike and Adienbo, 2010; Uzodike and Onuoha, 2010). In fact, it has been shown that Xylopia aethiopica can also induce liver damage (Cotran et al., 2005). This study therefore, investigates the effect of Xylopia aethiopica leaves on body weight and growth performance using Wistar rats.

ASN-PH-020919

ISSN: 2315-537X

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ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES OF DIFFERENT SOLVENT EXTRACTS OF CARICA PAPAYA FRUIT PARTS ON SOME GRAM POSITIVE AND GRAM NEGATIVE ORGANISMS

International Journal of Herbs and Pharmacological Research IJHPR, 2013, 2(4): 42 – 47.

www.arpjournals.com

RESEARCH PAPER:

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES OF DIFFERENT SOLVENT EXTRACTS OF CARICA

PAPAYA FRUIT PARTS ON SOME GRAM POSITIVE AND GRAM NEGATIVE ORGANISMS

1Orhue P.O. and *2Momoh A.R.M.

Department of 1Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences; 2Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences;

Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma-Nigeria.

Correspondence: mcsionelphilrazzy@yahoo.com

Received: 29th july, 2013 Accepted: 19th October, 2013 Published: 31st October, 2013

ABSTRACT

Aside its nutritional values, there are speculations that Carica papaya, also known as paw paw, has antibacterial potentials. This study evaluates the antibacterial potentials of different extracts of C.papaya parts, in comparison with standard drugs (perflacine and cefuroxine). Dried and grinded papaya leaves (5g), fruit peels (5g); and seeds (5g), respectively mixed with 95ml of extraction solvent (water, ethanol, 1% HCl, acetone and petroleum ether) for 24 hours, were used for this study. The constituent compounds were filtered aseptically and inoculated unto MacConkey and Nutrient agars to verify the sterility of the solutions for utilization. Results showed high antimicrobial activity for the extracts of C.papaya in petroleum ether with a Minimun Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 2mg/ml as against 4mg/ml and 6mg/ml for perflacine and cefuroxine respectively. Extracts in 1% HCl and ethanol however, showed antimicrobial activity against the gram positive and negative organisms investigated, while extracts in water was only active against Escherichia coli and S. aureus. No statistical difference (P<0.05) was observed in the antimicrobial activities between the extracts of petroleum ether and the standard antimicrobial drugs. These suggest that C. papaya may be used as an antibiotic, and extracts in petroleum ether seems more potent.

Key words: Carica papaya, Antimicrobial, Extraction solvents, Plant parts.

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INTRODUCTION

The use of local plants as primary health remedies, due to their pharmacological properties, is quite common in Asia, Latin America, USA, China, Japan and Africa (Bibitha et al., 2002). According to Boakye-yiadon and Dwuma-Bada (1997), there are over 10,000 medicinal plants in West Africa, used for disease treatment and prevention. While infectious diseases are reported to be the world’s major human threat and accounting for almost 50,000 deaths every day (Ahmad and Beg, 2001), the frequency and diversity of life-threatening infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms has increased steadily; becoming an important cause of morbidity and mortality in immune-compromised patients especially in developing countries (Al-Bari et al., 2006). The situation is further complicated with the rapid development of multidrug resistance to the available antimicrobial drugs (Nirosha and Mangalanayaki, 2013). This has globally challenged research institutions, pharmaceutical companies and the academia, and has led to the search for newer sources of antibiotics that must be more effective, affordable and readily available (Adekunle and Adekunle, 2009; Latha and Kannabiran, 2006).

Plants have been reported to be the cheapest and most effective source of drugs (Mathur et al., 2011; Prince and Prabakaran, 2011; Pretorius and Watt, 2001). In recent times, the use of herbal medicine in third world countries has increased, owing to the fact western orthodox medicines are relatively expensive and readily not available. This explains the increasing research on various plants, and the upsurge in mass-media advert placement on herbal preparations by countless ‘traditional doctors’.

Of interest in this study, is Carica papaya (C. papaya) commonly known as pawpaw (English), Adiba (Ewe–Ghana) or Bofre (Twi–Ghana). It belongs to the family of Caricaceae and several species of Caricaceae have been used as medication against a variety of diseases (Mello et al., 2008). Available evidence indicate that C. papaya can act as an analgesic, amebicide, antibacterial, cardiotonic, cholagogue, digestive, emenagogue, febrifuge, hypotensive, laxative, pectoral, stomachic and vermifuge (Anibijuwon and Udeze, 2009). Many scientific investigations have also been conducted to evaluate the biological activities of their various parts including fruits, shoots, leaves, rinds, seeds, roots or latex (Baskaran et al., 2012; Maisarah et al., 2013). In fact, a number of studies worldwide have investigated the antimicrobial properties of plants and C. papaya has been reported to serve as a source for therapeutic alternatives (Adriana et al., 2007).

Studies conducted in different parts of Africa have demonstrated the significant antibacterial activity of various extracts pawpaw tree parts (Doughari et al., 2007; Dawkins et al., 2003; Emeriwa, 1982). Specifically, Osato et al., (1993) reported that the latex of C. papaya is bacteriostatic to Bacillus spp, Enterobacter coacae, Escherichia coli, Saimonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus vulgaris. The seed was reported to have antimicrobial activity against Trichomonas vaginalis trophozoites and was suggested it could be used in urinogenital disorder like trichomoniasis, however, with care to avoid toxicity (Calzada et al., 2007). In addition to its antimicrobial qualities, scientists have discovered that C. papaya can mitigate many side effects associated with synthetic antimicrobial agents (Rajeshwar and Gupta, 2005; Iwu et al., 1999).

Despite these scientific facts on the antimicrobial potentials of C. papaya, little information exits on studies that have compared the potencies of extracts from different parts in varied extraction solvents. Hence, this study investigates the antibacterial activity of different parts of Carica papaya in different extraction solutions, in comparison with standard drugs (perflacine and cefuroxine).

 

ASN-PH-020919

ISSN: 2315-537X

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