028055   PURI A V, KHANDAGALE P D, ANSARI Y N (St. John Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Palghar- 401 404, Email: avpuri@rediffmail.com) : A review on ethnomedicinal, pharmacological and phytochemical aspects of Sonchus oleraceus Linn. (Asteraceae). Int J Pharm Bio Sci 2018, 8(3), 1-9.

Sonchus oleraceus Linn. (S. oleraceus) is one of the therapeutically important herb, broadly distributed all through world. S. oleraceus species find their roots in various ancient medicinal systems including Chinese medicines. Traditionally various parts of S. oleraceus had been employed in the treatment of different diseases like Galactagogue, febrifuge, sedative, vermifuge. Liver disorder. It treats phthisis hepatitis, infections, inflammation, and rheumatism treatment of vitiligo. It is used as a cathartic, a sedative, in a cancer treatment and a vermicide etc. Nowadays S. oleraceus species are being explored as a potential antioxidant. Considering these facts, we endeavoured to present a comprehensive review enlightening the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of plant S. oleraceus. We utilized logical writing and scientific literature from electronic search engine such as Springerlink, Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus and BioMed Central as well as relevant books, websites, scientific publications and dissertations as a source of information. Phytochemical profiling of this species has revealed the presence of some imperative phytochemicals sesquiterpene lactones of the eudesmanolides and guaianolide structures. It also contains flavonoids, flavonols, proanthocyanidins, total phenols, saponins and alkaloids. The pharmacological activities exhibited by S. oleraceus are attributed to the presence of valuable bioactive phytoconstituents. Literature revealed that plant S. oleraceus possess’ antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antinociceptive, anxiolytic, cytotoxic and antibacterial activity. This review intends to investigate the published report regarding phytochemicals, ethnomedicinal and pharmacological viewpoints and put forth the therapeutic potential of S. oleraceus. Future research can be directed to extensive investigation about phytochemistry, clinical trials and pharmacokinetics acquiring safety data so as to add new dimensions to therapeutic utilization of S. oleraceus and other Sonchus species.

2 illus, 44 ref

028029   HAZARI M H, RATHOD J L (Post Graduate Studies and Research in Marine Biology Dep, Karnatak Univ, Karwar- 581 303, Karnataka, Email: jagannathrathod9@gmail.com) : Characterization of heterotrophic bacteria from the sediment of marine cage farm of Polem, Goa. Int J Pharm Bio Sci 2018, 8(3), 30-5.

Present study aimed at characterising the sediment bacterial population from the cage farm of Polem, Goa with reference to phenotypic and biochemical characterization. Total of 9 isolates were selected for the present study based on the colony morphology and were identified by conventional biochemical and molecular techniques as Bacillus firmus, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus aryabhattai, Acinetobacter sps, Vibrio harveyi, Vibrio algenolyticus, Ferrimonas balearica and Oceanomonas smirnovii. The study suggests that the sediment bacteria from the cage farm can be used as biological indicator of farming practices.

1 table, 31 ref

028072   SRINIVAS D, VENKATESH D, PRASAD D K, BAKSHI V, KIRAN G (Pharmacy Dep, Anurag Group of Institutions, Telangana- 500 089, Email: kittukp25@gmail.com) : In vitro evaluation of antioxidant activity of novel theophylline derivatives. Int J Pharm Bio Sci 2018, 8(3), 24-9.

The present investigation is to assess the free radical quenching potential of Novel Theophylline containing derivatives, using DPPH and Nitric oxide methods. The synthetic compounds C-16 and C-17 were used to assess the antioxidant activity were measured spectrophotometrically. The C-17 compound (78.7 ± 0.608 in DPPH and 69.5 ± 0.495 in Nitric oxide assay at 160 µg/ml) showed more antioxidant potential than C-16 compound (73.4 ± 0.515 in DPPH and 65.5 ± 0.496 in Nitric oxide assay at 160 µg/ml). Both the C-16 and C-17 compounds have showed less Nitric oxide scavenging than the DPPH scavenging activity and were comparable with standard Ascorbic acid. The results obtained from the present study were showed that the C-16 and C-17 compounds exhibited potential source of antioxidant activity. The novel Theophylline derivatives were showed dose dependent inhibition of free radicals which might be due to the presence of purine ring system in their chemical structure, especially alkyl side chain in the C-17 compound.

3 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

028039   KUMAR S K, AGARWALA S, DAS R, CHAKRABORTY K (Zoology Dep, Gour Banga Univ, West Bengal- 732 103, Email: soumyakalyankmr@gmail.com) : Observation on the interrelation of morphological characteristic of jute leaf during the growth and development of jute plant at Malda, West Bengal. Int J Pharm Bio Sci 2018, 8(3), 10-23.

Leaf is the prime photosynthetic organ of plant. Structure of the leaf depends on some leaf-characteristics. Typically, a leaf is a thin, dorso-ventrally flattened, for photosynthesis. Photosynthesis mainly occurs in the palisade mesophyll tissue located at the upper side of leaf lamina. Jute leaves are of different shapes, sizes and textures in relation to plant growth and development. Quality of the jute leaf in relation to the days after sowing (DAS) depends on the leaf characteristics like plant height (cm), basal diameter/plant (cm), number of branches/plant, number of mature pods/ plant, lamina length, lamina thickness, leaf moisture content, leaf area/plant (dm²), dry matter /plant in gm., leaf weight, petiole length, petiole thickness, number of veins, number of dentition and leaf chlorophyll content. In order to understand the interrelationship of the leaf characteristics in relation to plant growth and development, an observation on the jute leaf features was made during 2017-2018 at Malda, West Bengal, India at three times (40, 60 and 80 DAS). In most of the cases the relation was found significantly positive as the different leaf characters influences mutually each other. However, in some occasional cases the relation, though very sporadic, are negative.

2 illus, 4 tables, 47 ref

028057   RAMEH B (Genetics & Genomics Dep, Yogi Vemana Univ, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, Email: adenoramesh@gmail.com) : A mini reveiw on. Int J Pharm Bio Sci 2018, 8(3), 143-8.

The disease "bract mosaic" in banana and plantain was caused by Banana bract mosaic virus (BBrMV), a distinct member of the genus Potyvirus belongs to the family Potyviridae. The disease incidence was reported from various parts of the world including Philippine, Australia, Sri Lanka, India, Western Samoa and Vietnam. In India, the disease is more prevalent in states of Kerala, Karnataka,Tamil Nadu (TN) and Andhra Pradesh (AP). BBrMV is a non-enveloped flexuous filamentous ssRNA virus infects all kinds of banana varieties. It follows the putative polyprotein strategy of Potyvirus. The virus is transmitted by aphid (non-persistantly) and vegetative planting materials and account for significant yield loss in banana. Recently, in addition to banana, the virus was also reported in small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and flowering ginger (Alpphinia purpurata) indicates adapting new hosts for their surveillance and spread. A laboratory study demonstrated that BBrMV could be transmitted from flowering ginger to its natural host banana seems alarming sign to the global banana production. The major problem in the management of this disease is remains unnoticed until it causes severe crop loss. Regular field inspection, early disease diagnosis, removal of source of virus inoculums, insect vector control, selection of resistant plants, mass production virus-free banana seedlings by in vitro micro-propagation and stringent quarantine measures are necessary for better management of the disease. This review provieds an overview of distribution, properties, detection and management of BBrMV.

2 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

028042   LAKSHMAIAH P, NAGAJYOTHI M, RAM V T, SRILAKSHMI T, SPANDANA U (Nirmala Coll of pharmacy, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: adenoramesh@gmail.com) : Best weight loss: Bottle gourd. Int J Res Pharm Chem 2018, 8(3), 437-41.

Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) is a green colour, longitudinal vegetable synonym calabash gourd belongs to the family cucurbitaceae. Bottle gourd most probably originated in tropical Africa, and occupies first place in India. It is only the crop known to have been cultivated in pre- columbian times in both the world and new world. Bottle gourd extracts of the plant shows antibiotic activity rich in vitC, and thiamine. The fruit pulp is used as emetic, purgative, diuretic. Bottle gourd is also considered of the best weight loss. Bottle gourd reported activities are free radical scavenging activity, antioxidant activity, lipase inhibitory activity, diuretic activity, cardio protective activity, antimicrobial activity, lipid lowering activity, hepato toxicity activity.

25 ref

028024   CREDO D, MACHUMI F, MASIMBA P J (Natural Products Development Dep, Muhimbili Univ, 65001 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania) : Phytochemical screening and evaluation of anti-diabetic potential of selected medicinal plants used traditionally for diabetes management in Tanzania. Int J Res Pharm Chem 2018, 8(3), 405-11.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the anti-diabetic activity of extracts from five selected medicinal plants used traditionally to manage diabetes in Tanzanian namely, Afzelia quanzensis (root), Bridelia duvigneaudii (root), Cyphomandra crassifolia (fruit), Dioscorea praehensilis (tuber) and Ficus fischeri (stem bark) which were collected in February 2017. The study was conducted from March to August 2017. Phytochemical screening focused on the usual reactions of characterization based on precipitation and coloration with standard reagents. Evaluation for anti-hyperglycaemic activity of 80% aqueous ethanol plant extracts was conducted in normal albino mice by using Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). The statistical analysis of results was carried out using Student t-test followed by one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s multiple comparisons at probability value (p < 0.05). Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of terpenoids, phenolics, saponins and glycosides. At a dose of 200 mg/kgbwt; B. duvigneaudii root extract exhibited the most significant anti-diabetic activity by lowering blood glucose levels at 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 hours after administration. The results suggested that the 80 % aqueous ethanol roots extract of B. duvigneaudii is capable of managing hyperglycemia on oral glucose loaded normal albino mice. Thus, this plant may be considered as one of the potential sources for the isolation of new alternative anti hypoglycemic agent (s) for management of diabetes.

2 tables, 23 ref

028023   CHAUHAN P, SHARMA H, SINGH S, GUPTA Y K, KUMAR U (Pharmacology Dep, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi - 110 029, Email: surenderaiims@gmail.com) : Attenuation of methotrexate-induced hepatorenal damage by Terminalia bellerica fruit extract in experimental rats. Pharmacogn Res 2018, 10(3), 301-8.

Methotrexate  (MTX) is used for numerous malignancies and autoimmune disorders. With such widespread use, MTX‑induced hepatorenal toxicity is an issue of concern that still needs to be addressed. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the role of Terminalia bellerica extract  (TBE) in MTX‑induced hepatorenal toxicity in Wistar albino rats. Rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6) – received MTX 20 mg/kg intraperitoneally on the 4^th day along with pretreatment with different doses of TBE (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg, p.o) given from 1^st to 15^th day. MTX‑induced hepatorenal toxicity was evaluated by biochemical hepatic and renal parameters along with histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Hepatorenal toxicity induced by MTX was attributed to increased oxidative stress, biochemical liver, and kidney parameters and upregulation of caspase‑3 and nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB). MTX‑treated group observed two-fold to three-fold rise in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen  (BUN), and creatinine values – 138.49  IU/L, 125.81  IU/L, 63.09  mg/dl, and 1.895  mg/dl, respectively. Groups pretreated with TBE (400 mg/kg) observed a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in oxidative stress and biochemical parameters – AST (63.94 IU/L), ALT (55.98 IU/L), BUN  (37.02  mg/dl), and creatinine  (1.065  mg/dl). Pretreatment with TBE 400  mg/kg, histopathology of both liver and kidney tissues showed improved architectural damage and immunohistochemistry showed downregulation of increased antigens‑caspase‑3 and NFkB. T. bellerica fruit extract  (400  mg/kg) showed significant hepatorenal protection by reducing oxidative stress, elevating serum enzymes, and downregulating the tissue expressions of caspase‑3 and NFkB.

15 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

028054   PALANISAMY C P, KANAKASABAPATHY D, ASHAFA A O T (Plant Sciences Dep, The Free State Univ, Phuthaditjhaba 9866, South Africa, Email: ashafaaot@ufs.ac.za) : In vitro antioxidant potential of Euclea crispa (Thunb.) leaf extracts. Pharmacogn Res 2018, 10(3), 296-300.

Euclea crispa is a South African medicinal plant belonging to the family Ebenaceae. The objective of this study was to analyze the in  vitro antioxidant activity of different extracts of E. crispa leaves. 2, 2‑diphenyl‑1‑picrylhydrazyl  (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, reducing power assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, hydroxyl scavenging assay, and nitric oxide scavenging assay were used to analyze free‑radical scavenging activity. The superoxide dismutase  (SOD), catalase  (CAT), glutathione peroxidase  (GPX), total reduced glutathione (TRG), and estimation of vitamin C assays were carried out to analyze the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants on a fresh leaf of E. crispa. The DPPH radical scavenging assay (135.4 ± 0.7 µg/ml), hydroxyl scavenging assay (183.6 ± 0.9 µg/ml), and nitric oxide scavenging assay (146.2 ± 1.3 µg/ml) showed the significant half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values in ethanolic extract when compared to the ethyl acetate, chloroform, and petroleum ether extract of E. crispa leaves. Further, the ethanolic extract exhibited good reducing power assay and FRAP assay showed (the maximum absorption of 0.79 and 0.68 at 500 μg/ml, respectively) when compared to other solvent extracts. The fresh E. crispa leaves possess high content of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants such as SOD (41.3 ± 0.34 units/mg protein), CAT (124 ± 0.54 µmole of H₂O₂ consumed/min/mg protein), GPX  (261.2  ±  0.42  µg of glutathione oxidized/min/mg protein), TRG (42.3 ± 0.16 µg/mg protein), and estimation of vitamin C (185 ± 0.39 µg/mg) assays. Based on the results obtained from this study, it can be concluded that the E. crispa leaves can be used for the preparation of antioxidative therapeutic agents. However, further studies are necessary to substantiate the current findings

5 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

028026   GARIGE B S R, SRISAILAM K, RAO V U M (Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Dep, (Formerly Lalitha Coll of Pharmacy), Medchal - 501 301, Email: babaphd2010@gmail.com) : Innovative research on isolation, characterization, and identification of bioactivity in the isolated constituent from methanol extract of Galphimia glauca Cav. stems. Pharmacogn Res 2018, 10(3), 265-74.

Galphimia glauca Cav  (GG) is naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions of the world including India. The present study has been opted to shed light on GG stems to isolate, characterize, and explore the analgesic and anti‑inflammatory potential of the isolated phytomolecule using in  vivo models. The bioactive fraction of the active stem methanol extract was subjected to column chromatography followed by preparative thin layer chromatography to separate the phytoconstituent. The isolated phytoconstituent was characterized and evaluated for toxicological studies, analgesic, and anti‑inflammatory activity. The isolated phytoconstituent “BS‑1” was characterized by melting point, Rf value, IR spectra, mass spectra, ¹H‑NMR spectrum, and ¹³C NMR spectrum. The LD₅₀ of BS‑1 was found to be > 2000 mg/kg. The results were significant (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01) in hot plate test and tail clip test. The central analgesic effect of BS‑1 was further proved through reversal actions of naloxone. The peripheral analgesic actions exhibited by BS‑1 were significant (P < 0.001) in formalin and writhing test when compared to control group. In carrageenan test, BS‑1 exhibited significant  (P ≤ 0.05) dose‑dependent activity on comparison of the high dose with respective low dose. The BS‑1 exhibited significant (P ≤ 0.05) anti‑inflammatory activity, when correlated with the standard drug in cotton pellet induced granuloma test. The BS‑1 exhibited significant analgesic and anti‑inflammatory activity in central and peripheral models of analgesic activity and in acute and chronic models of anti‑inflammatory activity.

9 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

028069   SINGLA C, ALI M (Ramgopal Coll of Pharmacy, Gurgaon, Haryana) : Antidandruff activity and chemical constituents of the leaves of Betula cylindrostachya Lindl. ex Wall. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 189-93.

Dandruff is a skin disorder caused by a fungus Malassezia furfur. There are some medicinal plants and essential oils which possess antidandruff properties. The stem bark and young shoots of Betula cylindrostachys Lindley (Betulaceae) are used as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, astringent, rubefacient, tonic and to treat bladder infections, neuralgia, rheumatism skin diseases. The air-dried leaf powder was extracted exhaustively with methanol in a Soxhlet apparatus. The concentrated methanolic extract was dissolved in 95% aqueous methanol and fractionated by partitioning the solution with petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. The chloroform fraction exhibited marked antidandruff activity against the growth of Malassezia furfur. It was adsorbed on silica gel (60-120 mesh) for the preparation of a slurry. The dried slurry was loaded over silica gel columns. The column was eluted with petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol, successively, in order of increasing polarity to isolate 1-heptadecanol (1), behenyl alcohol (1-docosanol, 2), 1-tricosanol (3), lignoceric acid (ntetracosanoic acid, 4) and 1-nonacosanol (5). Their structures were established on the basis of spectral data analysis and chemical reactions.

2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

028075   SWAEFY H M F, SABH A Z (Ornamental Horticulture Dep, Cairo Univ, Giza, Egypt) : Growth and anthraquinone content of madder plant as affected by propagation method and different sources of potassium. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 182-8.

Two field experiments were conducted during the two successive seasons of 2015/2016 and 2016/2017, at Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. The aim of this study is to determine the best propagation method of Rubia tinctorum L. plant (seed or division) which leads to the highest productivity of the roots, as well as to investigate the effect of three different sources of potassium on the total content of anthraquinones. The results clarified that there were significant differences between plants grown from seed and division in the root fresh and dry weights. The plants propagated by division produced roots yield more than that produced by seed propagation with a significant difference when harvested at the age of 14 months. Young roots (7 months) had a total content of anthraquinones (mmol / g f. w.) higher than the older ones. The treatment of 24 g ammonium sulfate plus 15 g wood ash per plant had a superior effect on roots yield and the total content of anthraquinones. The root anatomical structure supported the plant growth parameters.

2 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

028034   KANNAN G G, RAJAMANI K, NALINA L, UMA D (Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Studies on the effect of different spacing on Caralluma sarkariae (Lavranos & Frandsen) cuttings. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 180-1.

Caralluma sarkariae is a succulent herb belongs to the family of Apocyanaceae. The population of Caralluma sarkariae is found growing in a secluded area at Nagamalai hills of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The crop with its immense medicinal value such as anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties need to be explored and promoted in non-traditional areas. Hence the experiment was taken up to study the effect of different spacing on Caralluma sarkariae cuttings. The results revealed that, the use of different spacing greatly influenced the growth parameters particularly shoot and root length were greatly influenced in closer spacing of 15×15 cm.

1 table, 10 ref

028047   MUHAMMED N V A, RANJITH D, VINAYAKRAJ M, VIKRAMAN A, RAHMAN M M, SIVAN V V, SANIS J (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Veterinary and Animal Sciences Coll, Wayanad, Kerala) : Physical characteristics, extractive yield and qualitative phytochemical analysis of Flueggea leucopyrus Willd leaves. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 175-9.

In recent days, there is renewed interest towards the drugs of natural origin due to their nontoxic nature Therapeutic efficacy of medicinal plants depends upon the quality and quantity of chemical constituents. The misuse of herbal medicine or natural products starts with wrong identification. The most common error is the vernacular name given to two or more entirely different species. The problems can be solved by pharmacognostic identification of medicinal plants, which is essential to lay down standard specifications of medicinal plants. The present investigation attempts to study different facets of identification of Flueggea leucopyrus leaves including pharmacognostic parameters, physical parameters, Extractive yield and qualitative phytochemical analysis. The results suggests that all the parameters are were as per the prescribed guidelines, the extractive yield was highest with acetic acid and lowest with benzene and qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of maximum phytoconstituents in methanolic extract.

5 tables, 30 ref

028067   SINGH A P, KUMARI B (Botany Dep, Hindu Coll, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh) : A survey of tree flora of Rampur district of Rohilkhand region, (U.P.). J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 169-74.

A survey was conducted during the year 2017 for the investigation of multi-use of trees diversity in of Rampur District. The present study focuses on the need of multi-use tree species and their conservation for future generations. Total 93 tree species under 78 genera belonmging to 37 families have been recorded. Out of 37 families, Moraceae represented by 10 species followed by Caesalpiniaceae with 9 species and Apocynaceae & Mimosaceae with 6 species each. About 46 tree species exhibit deciduous nature, 33 species are evergreen, 9 species are semi-deciduous and 5 tree species are semi-evergreen in the study area. 93 species surveyed in the Rampur district have been used for multipurpose such as medicinal, ornamental, timber wood, edible fruits, avenue tree, fodder, firewood, religious, oil, handcraft, spices.

4 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

028058   RASHMI D R, RAGHU N, GOPENATH T S, PALANISAMY P, BAKTHAVATCHALAM P, KARTHIKEYAN M, GNANASEKARAN A, RANJITH M S, CHANDRASHEKRAPPA G K, BASALINGAPPA K M (Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeswara (JSS) Univ, Mysuru, Karnataka) : Taro (Colocasia esculenta): An overview. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 156-61.

Colocasia esculenta is a tropical plant grown primarily for its edible corms, the root and vegetables. It is most commonly known as taro and is widely cultivated in the high rainfall areas under flooded condition usually by small farmers. This study details about morphological characters of taro and their use as food and; region and season of cultivation.

3 illus, 5 tables, 46 ref

028019   ABUBAKAR U S, YUSUF K M, ABDULLAHI M S, ABDU G T, ABDULRAZAK A, MUHAMMAD S, BINTA I K, OSODI F A, ALIYU I (Bioresources Development Centre, Abuja, Nigeria) : Cultivation, phytochemical and in vitro antiplasmodium activity of Artemisia annua L. (Asteraceae). J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 151-5.

The chemical synthesis of Artemisinin for the production of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs) is complex, uneconomical and produces low yields, thus, the main source of Artemisinin is the Chinese plant, Artemisia annua. The present study was aimed to determine the adaptability, phytochemical constituents and in vitro anti-plasmodium activity of hexane and aqueous leaf extracts of A. annua cultivated in Kano State, Nigeria. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides, steroids, terpenoids, alkaloids and flavonoids in both extracts, while saponins, tannins, phenolic compounds and anthraquinones were only detected in the aqueous extract. The in vitro antiplasmodium screening showed that both extracts have anti-plasmodium activity; with aqueous extract having the highest activity at the concentration of 10, 5, 2.5 and 1.25 mg/ml which was statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05) when compared to the positive control. The study has shown that Kano soils may be suitable for the commercial cultivation of this important medicinal plant.

2 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

028040   KUMARI B (Botany Dep, Hindu Coll, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Taxonomy and ethnobotany of Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng: An exotic shrub in Rohilkhand region of Uttar Pradesh. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 123-5.

“Medicine is food and food is medicine” is the best way to describe on how the ailments were cured by using the plants during the ancient period of time. The “Magical plant of Indian Spice” (Murraya koenigii) has served humankind not only as food enhancer but also serve as village or folk medication to cure many disorders, the tribal communities have used many parts of the Murraya koenigii to cure them. A survey of study area revealed that Murraya koenigii used to cure pieria, diabetes, obesity, dysentery disorders, renal pain, stomach upsets and morning sickness.

2 illus, 11 ref

028044   MAITI P P, BHARDWAJ L K, AGRAWAL N, PANDA S, DE B, MANDAL S C (Prem Raghu Institute of Pharmacy, Hathras, Uttar Pradesh) : Histological evaluation of Calotropis gigantean (L.) R. Br. - Leaf, root, stem. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 110-6.

The present study was aimed to evaluate the histological parameters of different part of Calotropis gigantea. Calotropis gigantea (L.) R. Br. belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae is a well known medicinal shrub commonly known as milkweed and has been used in Unani, Ayurvedic and Siddha system of medicine for years. On large scale this plant is found in India, China and Malaysia. Also it is distributed in almost all over the world. Traditionally all the parts of the plant have been used as medicine, as well as an important ingredient in a number of Unani formulations. The plant is also commonly used in Ayurvedic system of medicine for healing various ailments. However the present study was aimed to evaluate the histological parameters to determine the identity, purity and strength of the plant for quality control purpose. The investigations of the study show the presence of madullary rays, xylem fibers, vessels, parenchyma cells, phloem, narrow fibers, wide fibers, lignified fibers and stomata.

17 illus, 11 ref

028030   HUSSEIN S (Biology Dep, Hajjah Univ, Yemen) : Ethnobotanical of Euphorbiaceae used in Hajjah district - Republic of Yemen. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 107-9.

This paper is based on the results of an ethnomedicinal research about the conventional medical use of any family Euphorbiaceae plant during summer 2016 in Hajjah District Republic of Yemen. The study revealed 5 plant species belonging to 3 genera Belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae are being used as medicine. The local people know the prospect and the nature of the plant utilization, through personal experiences and ancestral prescriptions. It was concluded that some plants are used singly while many others are used in combination. Similarly, few plant species are used for the treatment of a specific disease, while several others have multiple uses. The plants were mainly used Malaria, typhoid, Tumors, Sterile, purgative and laxative belly. The present investigation will help in the preservation of indigenous knowledge of the local people, which is depleting day by day. The most important of these species: Acalypha fruticosa Willd, Euphorbia cactus Ehrenb. Euphorbia fruticose Forssk, Jatropha Curcas L, Euphorbia granulata Forssk.

1 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

028037   KHATUN A, JANNAT K, JAHAN R, RAHMATULLAH M (Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Some plant-based home remedies used in Narayanganj district, Bangladesh. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 104-6.

Home remedies are perhaps the most elementary and frequently used means to treat illnesses. It is quite possible that treatment of human illnesses since the advent of humans started with home remedies, progressed to folk medicine and ended up in codified forms of traditional medicinal systems. The objective of this study was to document some home remedies used in Narayanganj city of Narayanganj district, Bangladesh. Eight plant species belonging to eight families are described, which were found to be used as remedies against bleeding from cuts and wounds, diabetes, pain, jaundice, diarrhea and dysentery. Scientific validation of such remedies can lead to low-cost treatment of the above-mentioned disorders.

1 table, 32 ref

028036   KEYA S I, AHMED N, MUNNI M N, MASUD K N A, RUNA M M, CHOWDHURY A F, KHAN R H (Pharmacy Dep, BRAC Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : In-vitro investigation of antioxidant activity of Baccaurea ramiflora in different fractions. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 100-3.

This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant property of Baccaurea ramiflora. The plant belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and locally used for the treatment of tumors, boils and buboes. This study provides a scientific basis for the use of Baccaurea ramiflora in traditional medicine. The seeds were extracted using methanol and different fractions were obtained using different organic solvents, e.g., dichloromethane, petroleum ether, chloroform. All these fractions were subjected to antioxidant activity determination. Among all the fractions, aqueous soluble fraction showed highest level of total phenolic content of 35.65 mg of GAE / gm of extractives comparing to the others. Whereas, for the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, petroleum ether fractions provided the highest IC₅₀ value of 556.29 g / ml.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

028027   GHANAVATI S, MASOUMIASL A, MORADI F (Plant Breeding Dep, Yasouj Univ, Yasouj, Iran) : Genetic diversity investigation of bitter melon (Citrullus colocynthis L.) populations using morphological and molecular markers. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 94-9.

Citrullus colocynthis L. is growing as a weed in Iran, has much medicinal application. Fifteen different populations of this plant were collected from different regions and genetic diversity among them evaluated using morphological and molecular markers. First, cluster analysis based on nine evaluated morphological traits divided populations into four distinct groups. Principle component analysis based on morphologic traits showed that first three components were explained 78.04 percent of variation among populations. Second, ten primers were applied on whole genome extract to disclose DNA polymorphism among populations. Many bands were appeared and display a 99.16 percent polymorphism. Cluster analysis categorized populations into four groups. The least and the most genetic similarity were observed between Dezful and Bandan and Dezful and Lendeh populations, respectively. Finally, it was proved that random amplified polymorphic DNA markers could be a proper tool for genetic diversity investigation in Iranian populations of Bitter melon.

5 illus, 6 tables, 28 ref

028070   SOFI M S, NABI S (Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore, Karnataka) : The role of phytocompounds in cancer treatment: A current review. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 83-93.

Plant-derived products are considered excellent sources for the discovery and development of novel cancer chemo-protective and chemotherapeutic agents. Throughout medical history, plant products have been shown to be valuable sources of novel anti-cancer drugs. Several plant-derived compounds are currently successfully employed in cancer treatment, and many natural products have been tested against cancer and still there has been a long standing interest in the identification of medicinal plants and derived natural products for developing novel cancer therapeutics. There are more than 270,000 higher plants existing on this planet. But only a small portion has been explored phytochemically. So, it is anticipated that plants can provide potential bioactive compounds for the development of new ‘leads’ to combat cancer diseases. The activities of phytoconstituents from plant and the synergistic action shown by them with other drugs make them ideal in alternative cancer therapies. It was also known that nature is able to produce a wide variety of chemical entities of novel structure. Many of the new and novel compounds isolated from natural sources might otherwise have never been discovered, especially those of considerable complexity requiring the development of methods for the creation of new ring systems. On the basis of ethnobotanical knowledge, researchers are screening natural bioactive phytoconstituents from plant to identify bioactive compounds for the development of new therapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer this includes studies on secondary metabolites with chemopreventive, antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities. In this review, complete outlines of the natural bioactive anticancer phytoconstituents from plant are described. Further pharmaceutical developmental challenges and opportunities in bringing the phytochemicals into the market are also explored.

1 table, 116 ref

028078   ZAKARIA Y, AZLAN N Z, HASSAN N F N, MUHAMMAD H (Sains Malaysia Univ, Kelantan, Malaysia) : In vivo antidiabetic efficacy of Malaysian Vernonia amygdalina aqueous extract. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 72-7.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major world health concern especially DM types 2. In Malaysia, about 2.6 million adults were diagnosed with diabetes and most of them turn to herbal medicine for treatment. Vernonia amygdalina or locally known as bitter leaf is believed by the local people and traditional inhaler to reduce blood glucose level. This study aims to prove the antidiabetic property of Malaysian local V. amygdalina as claim by the local Malaysian. V. amygdalina aqueous extract was prepared by reflux method and was further concentrated. Twenty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups; non-diabetic rats as normal control (NC), diabetic induced rats as diabetic control (DC), diabetic induced rats treated with 150 mg/kg metformin and diabetic induced rats treated with 50 mg/kg V. amygdalina aqueous extract. The diabetic rats were induced by using 40 mg/kg of Streptozotocin (STZ). The study was conducted for 28 days. Body weights (BW) were taken at weekly interval for 4 weeks. Fasting blood glucose was measured in 3 day intervals. At the end of experiment, blood samples were collected for lipid profile test and insulin secretion assay. There were no significant differences in BW, relative organ weight (ROW) and no organs abnormalities were observed in all experimental groups. Significant decreases in triglycerides, total cholesterol and fasting blood glucose gave a prove evidence that V. amygdalina possessing antidiabetic property. However, the levels of insulin in diabetic induced rats treated with V. amygdalina aqueous extract were not significant as compared to the diabetic induced rats treated with metformin. The aqueous extract of V. amygdalina has antidiabetic activity. This work supports the folk use of this plant in treating diabetes. This antidiabetic property of Malaysian V. amygdalina may due to its phytochemical constituents as our previous study revealed the high contents of flavonoids and terpenoids. However, the aqueous extract of V. amygdalina did not act through regulation of insulin hormone since there was no significant change in insulin level.

4 tables, 51ref

028071   SOWNTHARIYA P, LEKHA K (Botany Dep, PSG Coll of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Studies on floristic diversity in Pavalamalai hills, Gobichettipalayam, Erode. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 51-6.

Biological classification aims to simplify and order the immense diversity of life into coherent units. The present study is focused on the taxonomic and comprehensive information of the floristic diversity and ethnomedicinal properties of plants found in Pavalamalai hill surrounded by Western Ghats. The survey was to observe, record and to initiate the activities, such as inventory of useful species, habitat characteristics, identification of potential species for various economic uses and formulation. The collected plants were preserved using herbarium preparation techniques. A total of 37 families, 72 genera and 97 plant species were recorded. Dominant families in the study are Malvaceae (7 genera, 11 species), Asteraceae (6 genera, 6 species), Fabaceae (13 genera, 14 species), Euphorbiaceae (5 genera, 6 species).

1 table, 59 ref

028059   RINCHEN T, PATEL M K, DOLKAR P, STOBGAIS T, GURMET P, DAWA S, CHOSDUP T, ANGDUS T, DOLMA T (National Research Institute for Sowa Rigpa, New Delhi) : Agro-technique of critically endangered and commercially viable medicinal plant Inula racemosa Hook.f. in cold desert region of Ladakh, India. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 47-50.

The study has aimed to develop an agro-techniques of potential and commercially viable medicinal plant (Inula racemosa) in cold desert of Ladakh. It was observed that the Inula racemosa was easily cultivated through rootstock with easy techniques and with minimal care. Through this techniques around 98 % of the plants survived and established. The two year old rootstock can yield around 580 kgs/kanal and can earn around 0.61 lakhs per kanal. Number of stem is significantly correlated with fresh weight of the root at 5% and flower head per plant is highly significant correlated with fresh weight of root at 1 % and the primary root length is also highly correlated with the fresh weight of the root.

1 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

028046   MISONGE O J, KAMINDU G N, WANGUI W S, MUITA G M (Mount Kenya Univ, Thika, Kenya) : An ethnobotanical survey of plants used for the treatment and management of cancer in Embu County, Kenya. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 39-46.

Documentation of anticancer plants is not exhaustive in Kenya. The current study therefore was carried out to identify the plants used for treatment and management of cancer in Embu County. This is part of the mapping requirements of the laws of Kenya to promote complementary medicine. Analytical crosssectional ethnobotanical study was conducted in Embu County, sixteen key informants were recruited and provided information about the names of plants, the parts of plant and methods of preparation of the medicines used to manage cancer. The plants were collected from their natural habitat and identified. Nine plants were recorded to manage cancers of the breast, prostate and throat. Fagaropsis angolensis, Hydnora abyssinica and Indigofera swaziensis were recorded for management of cancer for the first time in this study. It was concluded that traditional medical practitioners of Embu County use plant extracts to manage and treat cancers of the breast, prostate and throat.

1 illus, 2 tables, 87 ref

028035   KASSAHUN A, GASHUA M, MULAT K (Chemistry Dep, Debre Berhan Univ, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia) : Review on medicinal plants used for the management of malaria in Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 28-33.

Malaria has been known as deadly communicable disease for decades in Ethiopia. The Amhara Regional State accounts for 31 % of malaria epidemics in the country. Traditional medicines have been used to treat malaria for thousands of years. About 90 % of the Ethiopian populations are dependent on traditional medicines for the management of the diseases. Traditional medicinal plants used to treat malaria in Amhara Reginal State were collected from available literature. Data collected from the literature includes scientific and local names, habit of the plant, plant parts used, mode of preparation and rout of administration. A total of 34 articles that provide information about the use of medicinal plant species to treat malaria in the region were reviewed and about 48 medicinal plant species are reported. The important parts of plants used for the management of the disease are leaves (60.42 %), roots (29.17 %), shoots (10.42 %) and seeds (8.33 %). However, latex, bulb, stem bark and stem were also used. The plant preparations consisted mostly of solutions, mixture of powders, infusions, powdering, and chopping decoction and burning. To administer remedies in the treatment of malaria, oral drinking (95.83 %) was the common route followed by dermal (4.17 %).

1 table, 34 ref

028074   SUNDARAM S S, SURESH K, SUNDARAM S P (Botany Dep, Saraswathi Narayanan Coll, Madurai, Tamil Nadu) : Indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants used to treat hemorrhoids in selected areas of Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, India. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 24-7.

The aim of present investigation mainly focused on Indigenous knowledge on Medicinal plants used to treat hemorrhoids in selected areas of Madurai District. It has been shown that 29 medicinal plants belonging to 20 families used to cure hemorrhoids. The ancestral traditional knowledge of people who have been using the native plants for the preparation of drugs and methods of their administration along with doses were recorded, Collected through questionnaire as well as informal personal interviews during field trips. The practical knowledge of people in herbal medicines reveals that they are capable of curing Hemorrhoids.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

028031   INDRACANTI M, TILAHUN S (Biotechnology Dep, Gondar Univ, Amhara, Ethiopia) : Evaluation of intra-cultivar interaction of rice (Oryza sativa L.) In presence of aqueous testa extract of cashew-nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) under NaCl salinity during early seedling growth. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 17-23.

Intra-cultivar interaction of basmati (cv. Kasturi) and non-basmati (cv. Pantdhan 11) mixed cultures of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in presence of aqueous extracts of testa of cashew-nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) under NaCl salinity during seedling stage was studied in laboratory conditions. Basmati and non-basmati seeds as mono or mixed cultures were sown at 0, 0.5, 1.0 % (w/v) NaCl concentrations along with 2.5 and 5 % aqueous testa extracts (TE = 1.5 gm/100mL) at 29 ± 2 °C under dark for 10 days. Results showed that, significant competitive interaction in mixed-culture of rice cultivars under salinity stress in presence of aqueous testa extracts. In 0.5 % salinity + TE treatments of basmati/non-basmati mixed cultures, AS (speed of accumulated germination) data indicates sensitivity to germination in basmati and stimulation in nonbasmati cultivars. SVI (seedling vigour index) values showed mixed culture had positive impact on basmati and negative impact on non-basmati during early days of seedling emergence. RCI (relative competitive intensity) values for root length, seedling height under 1.0 % (w/v) salinity + 5 % TE treatment showed competitive facilitation in basmati and competitive inhibition in non-basmati and competitive facilitation for seedling dry weight in both the cultivars. CR (competitive ratio) values suggest under 0.5 % (w/v) NaCl + 2.5 % TE and 1.0 % (w/v) NaCl + 5 % TE treatments basmati was better competitor for root length, seedling height and dry weight than non-basmati cultivar. The relative interaction index (RII) showed competitive interaction for accumulating both shoot and root biomass. Root and shoot biomass increased under 0.5 % (w/v) NaCl + TE and 0.5 % NaCl + 5 % TE respectively in basmati and decreased in non-basmati. Shoot biomass increased in 1.0 % (w/v) Na Cl + 5 %TE in both the cultivars. Presence of allele chemical (TE), competitive ability of basmati (cv. Kasturi) increased under NaCl salinity stress.

6 illus, 6 tables, 29 ref

028056   RAMALASHMI K (Biotechnology & Research Dep, SNMV Coll of Arts and Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : In vitro antidiabetic potential and GC-MS analysis of Digera muricata and Amaranthy cruentus. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 10-6.

The present study focuses on two plants of the family Amaranthaceae, and order Caryophyllales viz., Digera muricata and Amaranthy cruentus. All the medicinal plants were biologically active and plays major role in curing various hazardous human diseases. Therefore, the present work was undertaken to explore phytochemical analysis of these samples from the leave tissues and finally after analysis these are considered as rich source of phytoconstituents. The leaves of the selected two medicinal plants were washed, air dried and then powdered. Totally five different extracts namely aqueous, methanol, ethanol, chloroform and acetone extract of leaf samples were used for the phytochemical analysis to compare the phytochemical constituents in the selected plants. The results of the phytochemical analysis of these medicinal plants showed that the alkaloid, flavanoids, glycoside, amino acids, fatty acids, carbohydrates, proteins, phenolioc, tannins, steroids, terpenoids, anthocyanins, leucoanthocyanins, coumarins and emodins were found to be present in afore mentioned medicinal plants. The GC chromatograms was also performed on methanol extract and showed the retention time in the column and detected the peaks which correspond to the bioactive compounds present in the extract. The presence of polyphenol and antioxidant constituents such as flavonoids from the selected medicinal plants showed to have the ability to reduce blood glucose levels. The present finding reveals that the methanol extract of Digera muricata effeciently reacts with alpha-amylase in an extract dependent manner than Amaranthy cruentus by invitro analysis. Hence, the present work was undertaken to evaluate and compare the antidiabetic potential and also to support of the traditional claims.

2 illus, 5 tables, 14 ref

028076   YADAV S, BHAGCHAND O L A, YADAV P, YADAV J, NEHRA A (Genetics Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi) : DNA damage and repair in plants: A review. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(4), 6-9.

Despite stable genomes of all living organisms, they are subject to damage by chemical and physical agents in the environment (e.g., UV and ionizing radiations, chemical mutagens, fungal and bacterial toxins, etc.) and by free radicals or alkylating agents endogenously generated in metabolism. DNA is also damaged because of errors during its replication. The DNA lesions produced by these damaging agents could be due to altered base, missing base, mismatch base, linked pyrimidines, deletion or insertion strand breaks, intra- and inter-strand cross-links Excessive reactive oxygen species may cause irreparable DNA damage, leading to mutagenesis and perhaps cancer. Investigation into the nature of DNA damage and repair have provided valuable insight into aging, human genetics and cancer. Now, there is deep interest in identifying free radical scavengers or antioxidants that inhibit oxidative DNA damage. This review describes all the possible mechanisms of DNA damage and repair in general and recent progress in plants.

1 illus, 7 ref

028053   OMEIZA F S, LO A, EGU S A (Chemistry Dep, Kogi State Coll of Education, Ankpa, Nigeria) : Proximate composition of selected fruits consumed in Ihima metropolis of Okehi local government area, Kogi State. Int J Chem Sci 2018, 2(4), 13-5.

Five commonly consumed fruit samples Carrot, Coconut, Garden egg, Pineapple and Sweet Orange were purchased from Oboroke main market located in Ihima Metropolis of Okehi local government area of Kogi State and analyzed for proximate composition at National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT) Zaria, Nigeria. The results indicated that Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osb) has the highest moisture content (84.0 ± 0.05 %) among the tested fruits and Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) has the least moisture content (37.0 ± 0.02). The analysis also shows that Garden egg has the highest Crude protein (24.1 ± 0.15 %) and this was followed by Carrot (Daucus carota L.) 13.0 ± 0.07 % and Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.Merrill) has the lowest Crude protein (1.0 ± 3.40 %). Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) has the highest percentage of Crude fibre (12.0± 0.05%) with eggplant (Solanum melongena) having the lowest content (1.0 ± 0.11 %). Coconut (23 ± 0.53 %) and Carrot (5.76 ± 0.12 %) has the highest Crude fat and ash respectfully. As enhancement and a guard against spoilage of products, provision of storage facility and soft loan to horticultural farmers were recommended among others.

7 ref

028025   DEWANGAN M, KURRE A K (Plant Pathology Dep, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Evaluation of different chemical fungicides against myrothecium leaf spot of soybean under in vivo condition. Int J Chem Sci 2018, 2(4), 6-8.

Myrothecium leaf spot of soybean caused by Myrothecium roridum. Myrothecium leaf spot of soybean is occurring in almost all the major soybean growing areas of India causing about 30 per cent yield loss. Initial symptoms of the disease appear as small round or oval, brown spots with dark brown margin on leaves in the infected plant. In study of the foliar spray of different chemical fungicides against myrothecium leaf spot of soybean under in vivo condition, fungicides viz., Tebuconazole, Hexaconazole, Mancozeb, Pyraclostrobin, Fluxapyroxad and Propiconazole were quite effective in reducing the percent disease index over control. Foliar application of Propiconazole (78.90 %) was highly effective in reducing the percent disease index, followed by Pyraclostrobin (73.58 %). Minimum percent disease index over control was observed in Tebuconazole (35.75 %), followed by Fluxapyroxad (38.99 %). These fungicides were also effective in reducing the percent disease index under field conditions.

2 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

028050   NERDY N, MANURUNG K (Pharmacy Dep, Academy of Pharmacy Yayasan Tenaga Pembangunan Arjuna, Indonesia, Email: nerdy190690@gmail.com) : Spectrophotometric method for antioxidant activity test and total phenolic determination of red dragon fruit leaves and white dragon fruit leaves. Rasayan J Chem 2018, 11(3), 1183-92.

Dragon fruit is one of the fruits cultivated in the tropics. The fruit flesh of the dragon fruit has been widely consumed, and the fruit peel of the dragon fruit has also been extensively utilized. But the leaves of the dragon fruit have not been utilized and tend to be waste in agriculture. This study aims to utilize waste dragon fruit leaves with the test of antioxidant activity and the determination of total phenolic of red dragon fruit leaves extract and white dragon fruit leaves extract by spectrophotometric method. Methods performed for antioxidant activity test by 1,1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) with ascorbic acid as the comparator and total phenolic determination by Folin- Ciocalteu (FC) with gallic acid as the comparator. Measurements were done with a spectrophotometer. Antioxidant activity test results of red dragon fruit leaves extract and white dragon fruit leaves extract obtained scavenging concentration 50 % (SC50) 135.00 μg/mL and 142.47 μg/mL. Total phenolic determination results of red dragon fruit leaves extract and white dragon fruit leaves extract obtained value 756.75 mg/g and 707.07 mg/g. Both red dragon fruit leaves extract and white dragon fruit leaves extract to have moderate antioxidant activity.

7 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

028062   SARKER M A R, HAQUE M M, RIFA R A, EMA F A, ISLAM M A, KHATUN M M (Bangladesh Agricultural Univ, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Email: mmkhatun@bau.edu.bd) : Isolation and identification of bacteria from fresh guava (Psidium guajava) sold at local markets in Mymensingh and their antibiogram profile. Vet World 2018, 11(8), 1145-9.

The study was conducted for the isolation, identification, and antibiogram of bacteria obtained from fresh guava (Psidium guajava). A total of 25 fresh guavas were collected from five markets located in Mymensingh city. Guava samples were cultured onto various selective media such as eosin methylene blue, xylose lysine deoxycholate, thiosulfatecitrate- bile salts-sucrose, blood agar, and mannitol salt agar for the isolation of bacteria. Biochemical tests (dextrose, maltose, lactose, sucrose, mannitol, methyl red, Voges–Proskauer, and indole) were performed to identify the bacteria. Total viable counts of guava were ranged between log 6.56 colony-forming unit (cfu)/ml and 6.62 cfu/ml. A total of 106 bacterial isolates belonged to five genera (Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Vibrio spp., Bacillus spp., and Staphylococcus spp.) were identified. Salmonella spp. (23.6 %) was the most prevalent, followed by E. coli (22.64 %), Bacillus spp. (19.81 %), Staphylococcus spp. (17.92 %), and Vibrio spp. (16.03 %). The results of antibiotic sensitivity test showed that Salmonella spp., Bacillus spp., and E. coli were sensitive to chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin and resistant to ampicillin and cephalexin. Vibrio spp. was sensitive to chloramphenicol and gentamicin, intermediately sensitive to ciprofloxacin and ampicillin and resistant to cephalexin. The results of this study indicate that fresh guava contains multidrug-resistant bacteria which might pose a public health risk.

4 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

028041   LAILI K, FATATI N, INNEKE P F, SETYO P A, MARDI S (Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Indonesia, Email: fatma@chem.its.ac.id) : In vitro antioxidant activity of Sonneratia ovata Backer extract. Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 146-50.

Sonneratia ovata Backer is a mangrove plant as well as folk medicine from Aru Islands, Maluku-Indonesia which is traditionally used for treatment of many diseases. The present research has been purposed at antioxidant activity from stem bark of S. ovata. The methanol extract showed the highest in vitro antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values of 4.73 μg/mL and 2.00 μg/mL for DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging respectively. The isolation and identification of chemical constituents of S. ovata also have been performed and yielded β-sitosterol, stigmasterol and 3β-acetoxy-lup-20(29)-en-2α-ol.

4 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

028063   SARYONO, FINNA P, NURMALA S, WAHYU P N, AULIA A (Chemistry Dep, Riau Univ, Indonesia, Email: saryono@lecturer.unri.ac.id) : Morphological identification and hydrolytic enzyme producing abilities of fungi associated with wilting banana plants (Musa sp.). Res J Chem Environ 2018, 22(2), 79-86.

A dominant devastating disease found in banana plants (Musa sp.) in Indonesia is wilt. This study aimed to determine the genus of fungi associated with wilting banana plant which were isolated from the plant’s stump and the soil where the plants grew. Hydrolytic enzyme-producing abilities of each isolate were checked as well. There were 13 isolates obtained consisting of Aspergillus sp. LBKURCC72; Fusarium sp. LBKURCC73; Penicillium sp. LBKURCC74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79; and Trichoderma sp. LBKURCC80, 81, 82, 83 and 84. Cellulase-degrading abilities were found in Fusarium sp. LBKURCC73; Penicillium sp. LBKURCC75 and 77 whilst fungal isolates which are able to produce inulinase were Aspergillus sp. LBKURCC72, Penicillium sp. LBKURCC75, 76, 77, 78, 79 and Trichoderma sp. LBKURCC81, 83, 84. Amylaseproducing abilities were found in Penicillium sp. LBKURCC75 and Trichoderma sp. LBKURCC80, 81, 82, 83, 84. Furthermore, there are two fungal isolates producing lipase; Aspergillus sp. LBKURCC72 and Trichoderma sp. LBKURCC80. On the other hand, no isolate could degrade protein.

4 tables, 38 ref

029021   ARAÚJO K A, MIRANDA I P D A , CAMARGO C, REPETTO M (Federal Univ of Roraima (UFRR), Boa VistaRoraima, 69310-000, Brazil, Email: Kristiane.araujo@ufrr.br.) : Knowledge of medicinal plants used by residents in two peripheral districts of Boa Vista, Roraima, Northern Brazilian Amazon: Phytotherapy as a new strategy in collective health. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(26), 435-47.

The aim of the study was to describe local knowledge about the use of medicinal plants cited by study participants, as well as to examine how phytotherapy serves as an important strategy of integrative and complementary practice in coping with health problems. The research is characterized as an exploratory study of the descriptive type. Non-probabilistic snowball sampling generated a sample of one hundred and ten participants (n = 110). The study instruments were semi-structured interviews and questionnaires. The data collected were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2007 and summarized with descriptive statistical methods. The study informants presented knowledge of 77 species and 46 plant families, showing the rich variety of medicinal flora present in the Northern Brazilian Amazon. Among the respondents, elderly women had the most diversified knowledge. Preserving this knowledge is essential and can help in the implementation of public health policies. The results showed high richness of the medicinal flora present in Northern Brazilian Amazon.

7 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

029055   KANKARA S S, ISAH A B, BELLO A, AHMED A, LAWAL U (Biology Dep, Umaru Musa Yar’adua Univ, Katsina State, Nigeria, Email: sulaiman.kankara@umyu.edu.ng.) : Medicinal plants used for the management of hepatic ailments in Katsina State, Nigeria. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(24), 375-86.

People in Katsina State, Nigeria have been using medicinal plants to cure several ailments associated with liver since time immemorial; however the use of such plants was never documented. In this study, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted to document the medicinal plants used for the management of hepatic ailments in Katsina State, Nigeria. A semi-structured questionnaire method was adopted to interview 150 respondents (50 respondents from 1 Local Government Area of each of the three Senatorial Zones of the State) comprising herbalist, farmers, house wives, and others. A total of 62 plant species belonging to 57 genera distributed among 34 families were documented. Most of the reported plants belong to the Fabaceae (24.19 %), Moraceae (6.45 %), followed by Anacardiaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Asteraceae (each with 4.84 %). Senna occidentalis L., Ficus thonningii Bl., and Moringa oleifera Lam. had the highest relative frequency of citation (RFC) of 0.75, 0.64, and 0.53 respectively. Majority (38.71 %) of the reported plants were trees and about 79.03 % of the surveyed plants are sourced from wild. Leaves were the most frequently used (45.16 %) plants part. Most of the herbal medicines (80.65 %) were prepared in form of decoction and all the medicines were administered orally. This is the first ethnobotanical study on hepatic ailments in the study area. Results of the study could serve as baseline data based on which further ethnopharmacological investigations would be carried out. Further researches aimed at conserving as well as validating the folkloric use of the surveyed plants would be ideal.

5 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

029076   PILLAI M K, MATELA K S, GEORGE M J, MAGAMA S (Chemistry and Chemical Technology Dep, National Univ of Lesotho, P. O. Roma 180, Kingdom of Lesotho, Southern Africa, Email: kmharan@rediffmail.com) : Antioxidant activity of extracts from Schinus molle L. and Gleditsia triacanthos L.. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(24), 369-74.

Methanolic and chloroform extracts obtained from various parts of Schinus molle and Gleditsia triacanthos were evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging assay. The methanolic extracts from S. molle showed scavenging activity ranging from 35.97 ± 1.02 to 83.38 ± 2.74%, while the chloroform seed extract showed relatively weak scavenging activity ranging from 8.20 ± 1.02 to 68.82 ± 3.17%. The IC₅₀ values of S. molle methanolic leaves extract, S. molle methanolic stem-bark extract and S. molle chloroform seed extract (SMMELS, SMMESB and SMCHSD) were found to be 476.43, 3000 µg mL^-1 , respectively. The positive controls, GAMEOH and GAETAC, showed an IC₅₀ value <250 µg mL^-1 each. From this study, we concluded that the extracts from these two medicinal plants, S. molle and G. triacanthos, showed promising antioxidant activity. Therefore, further investigations, such as bioactive guided isolation of pure compounds, antioxidant activity of pure compounds, application of these extracts or pure compounds in culinary, etc., are required.

2 tables, 21 ref

029082   RAUTRAY S, PANIKAR S, SOFIA A, RAJANANTHINI A U (Biotechnology Dep, Mother Teresa Women’s Univ, Tamil Nadu, Email: biotechurn@gmail.com) : Anti-oxidant and anti-microbial study of Adiantum capillus veneris and Pteris quadriureta L. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(23), 359-68.

Adiantum capillus veneris (ACV) and Pteris quadriureta (PQ), two common ferns belonging to Pteridophyta family, has been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine against numerous human ailments since ancient times. This study was designed to analyse the presence of various phytochemicals in the ACV and PQ leaves and their pharmacological activities. The methanol extract of ACV and PQ leaves was screened for the presence of various primary and secondary metabolites such as proteins, lipids, phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins. Anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal activities were also analysed for methanolic extracts of ACV and PQ leaves using various methods. Various metabolites such alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, saponins and tannins in the ACV and PQ leaves were found. Phenols and flavonoids were present in high concentration when compared with other metabolites. The results also showed that methanolic extracts of ACV and PQ leaves have anti-oxidant, anti-haemolytic, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal activities. The pharmacological activities such as anti-oxidant, anti-haemolytic, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal activities of ACV and PQ leaves might be due to the presence of phenols and flavonoids.

3 illus, 6 tables, 52 ref

029012   ADEMOYE A D, LAJIDE L, OWOLABI B J, ONUBOGU C C (Chemistry Dep, Federal Univ of Technology, Akure. Nigeria, Email: morademoye@gmail.com) : Evaluation of anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis activity of fractions from selected medicinal plants used traditionally for treating cough and respiratory disorders in South West of Nigeria. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(23), 346-52.

Tuberculosis is a contagious airborne infection that mostly affects the lungs. The causative agent of tuberculosis in human is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The emergence and dissemination of M. tuberculosis isolates that are resistant to multiple antimicrobial drugs represent a growing public health threat. Fractions from Alafia barteri, Chasmanthera dependence, Chrysophyllum albidum, Emilia coccinea, Mezoneuron benthamianum, Phyllanthus muellerianus, Secamoni afzeli, Senna alata, Xylopia aethiopica and Acalypha fimbriata were screened for activity against drug susceptible M. tuberculosis H37Rv and the local isolates using proportion and nitrate reduction methods. The organisms used were M. tuberculosis H37Rv strain and the local isolates from TB patients. The standard antitubercular drugs used were isoniazid and rifampicin. No fractions from A. barterii, C. dependens, E. coccinea, S. afzeli, S. alata and X. aethiopica showed sensitivity against the M. tuberculosis strains. The hexane fraction of C. albidum, butanol fraction of M. benthamianum, ethyl acetate fraction of P. muellerianus and ethyl acetate fraction of A. fimbriata showed sensitivity with minimum inhibition concentration of 0.5 mg/ml. The ethylacetate and hexane fractions of M. benthamianum together with hexane fraction of P. muellerianus showed sensitivity with MIC value of 1.25 mg/ml. The highest MIC value of 2.5 mg/ml was obtained from hexane fraction of A. fimbriata. Thus, C. albidum, M. benthamianum, P. muellerianus and A. fimbriata possessed antimycobacterium tuberculosis activity and further research work would be required to assess possible antitubercular agents present in the four medicinal plants.

1 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

029073   OSSENI S D, TCHOBO F P, DJOSSOU A J, SOUMANOU M M (Abomey-Calavi Univ, calavi, République du Bénin, Email: sawabdeenosseni@yahoo.fr) : Varietal perceptions and medicinal uses of Irvingia gabonensis by indigenous populations in two departments in southern Benin. J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13118 - 25.

Irvingia gabonensis (bush mango) is a species present in Benin as well as in other parts of West and Central Africa. The present study discusses to varietal perceptions, the socio-economic and socio-cultural importance of Irvingia gabonensis in two departments of southern Benin. The study was conducted on 131 tree holders of Irvingia gabonensis in four municipalities to each of the two departments prospected. The investigations revealed, that there are two varieties of Irvingia gabonensis fruits and there marketing generates important devises to holders. In addition to the economic interest generated by the fruit, it should be noted that in order to obtain the kernel, more than 64 % of the respondents use the pulp as an organic fertilizer which would increase the productivity of the crops. Conclusion is, two variety exist in this two departments. The organs of this plant are also used in traditional medicine. They are used in wound healing of the uterus after delivery, in the treatment of stomachaches, malaria, anemia, edema and intestinal wounds. The aqueous decoction is the most cited pharmaceutical form.

3 tables, 22 ref

029069   NGOM A, GUEYE M C, GUEYE M, BILLOT C, CALATAYUD C, DIOP B M, KANE N A, PIQUET M, VIGOUROUX Y, ZEKRAOUI L, MBAYE M S, NOBA K, BARNAUD A (Centre de recherche de Bel Air, Sénégal, Email: ablaye11.ngom@ucad.edu.sn) : Cross-species amplification of microsatellite loci developed for Digitaria exilis Stapf in related Digitaria species. J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 12982 -95.

Digitaria exilis Stapf (white fonio) is a staple crop in West Africa, mainly consumed during food shortage and highly associated to cultural events. The aim of this study was to test the transferability of microsatellite loci developed for D. exilis to other species of the genus Digitaria in order to further investigate the diversity of species for which there is little genomic resources available. Methodology and Results : Eight (8) microsatellite loci on 119 accessions from 39 Digitaria species were tested. With an average amplification percentage of 62.8 % ranging from 25 % to 100 %, these SSR markers are transferable to other species of the genus Digitaria. The transferability was higher for D. argyrothrica, D. fuscescens, D. longiflora, D. milanjiana and D. ternata. In some species such as D. abyssinica, D. nuda, D. pennata, D. pseudodiagonalis and D. tisserantii, the very low percentage of cross-amplification confirmed their distance from D. exilis. D. longiflora, thought as the most related wild species to D. exilis, exhibited 100 % level of transferable polymorphic loci. This set of markers will be useful for breeding and studying relationships between Digitaria species.

3 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

029014   AKSHATHA K N, MURTHY S M, DEVI N L, SAMPATH KUMARA K K (Microbiology Dep, Mysore Univ, Karnataka) : In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant studies of active principle hexacosylidenecyclohexane extracted from bark of Madhuca longifolia L. Int J Herbal Med 2018, 6(5), 61-6.

Plants are benefactor of humankind. The enormous increase in multiresistant strains irrespective of potent antibiotics has resulted in an exploration of new plant based products. Free radicals produced in the body are responsible for oxidation of biomolecules and increases the risk of chronic disorders. Antioxidants are the compounds which gives protection against cell damage. Active principle hexacosylidenecyclohexane isolated from the bark of Madhuca longifolia L. is used in the present antimicrobial and antioxidant studies. The antimicrobial activity of active principle was evaluated against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans by disk diffusion method and Minimum inhibitory concentration assay. The antioxidant activity of crude extract was tested by Superoxide dismutase assay and active principle was evaluated by DPPH and TRPA assay. The results obtained from the present work proved active principle have strong antimicrobial and antioxidant activity and can be used in herbal formulations.

7 illus, 6 tables, 18 ref

029037   DASH G, MOHANTY K K G R, SAHOO D, MAHALIK G, PARIDA S (Botany Dep, Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Odisha) : Traditional medicinal plants used for the treatment of asthma in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Int J Herb Med 2018, 6(5), 57-60.

Asthma, issue of the respiratory system in which the entries that empower air to go into and out of the lungs occasionally limited, causing hacking, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma is one in every of the foremost common chronic diseases in fashionable society and it's evident that its incidence and severity are increasing, but little is thought concerning the plants utilized in the management of the sickness. The current study is an approach to find some cheap treatment for asthma. Herbs have been utilized from the early human advancement on wards as a medication for a wide range of disease. Disregarding the improvement in the health science and creation of modern synthetic drugs, plants still involve an essential part in the modern and traditional system of medicine in everywhere throughout the world. Asthma is well recorded in the primitive Ayurvedic texts. In Sanskrit, asthma is known as Svasaroga, Svasa means “breathing in and out,” and roga means “disease.” According to the ancient Ayurvedic text, the Charak Samhita, there are five types of Asthma: Mahasvasa, Urdhvasvasa, Chinnasvasa, tamakasvasa and Ksudrasvasa. Amongst these 5 kinds first 3 aren't curable. 'Tamak-shwas is controllable and is difficult to remedy. The ultimate one is curable. To find the answer of different medicinal plants used for asthma we carried out a survey among the different Ayurvedic physician available in Bhubaneswar city as well as different medicine inhabitants. During interviewed or consulted about 36 doctors and 13 medicine inhabitants in the town from which 26 accepted to give a response during survey. We prepared a questionnaire to know the views of their treatment on asthma. The results are very much encouraging and help in treatment of asthma.

2 illus, 6 ref

029102   SORE H, SANON S, HILOU A (Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, 01 BP : 2208 Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso) : Antiplasmodial properties of plants isolated flavonoids and their derivatives. Int J Herb Med 2018, 6(5), 43-56.

Flavonoids are one of the major groups of plant secondary metabolites and have long been used as traditional medicines with scientifically proven pharmacological profits. They are commonly found in fruit, vegetables, nuts, tea, wine, propolis, seeds, stems, flowers and honey. Among the multiple roles of flavonoids in plants, we can cite the important roles in transport of auxin, root and shoot development, pollination, modulation of reactive oxygen species. Flavonoids have received considerable attention because of their anti-infective and many groups have isolated and identified the structures of flavonoids possessing antifungal, antiviral, antiplasmodial and antibacterial activity. The antioxidant effects of that group of natural product in the prevention of human diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases have also been proven. This review enlightens the prospective antiplasmodial role of flavonoids.

2 illus, 1 table, 48 ref

029020   ANODE S O, ABRAHA T, FISSEHA S A (Allied Sciences Dep, Hamelmalo Agricultural Coll, Eritrea) : Phytochemical analysis of Dodonaea angustifolia plant extracts. Int J Herb Med 2018, 6(5), 37-42.

This study was conducted to investigate the presence of potential bioactivephy to chemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids, saponins, tannins, steroids proteins and cardiac glycosides in the leaves, bark and stems extracts of Dodonaea angustifolia plant commonly found in Eritrea. Plant parts samples were collected from Habrengaka and Balwa areas in Anseba region, Eritrea. Ethanol, diethyl ether and methanol solvents were used in the extraction. Preliminary phytochemical analysis and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) was carried out on plant extracts. Elution was done by step gradient method in which polar and non-polar solvents in varying proportions were used as mobile phase. It was found that alkaloids, anthraquinones, glycosides, essential oils, phenolics, saponins and terpenoids were present in leaf, stem and bark extracts of all the three solvents used. Flavonoids was detected in leaf extracts of all the three solvents and in ethanolic stem extracts but was not detected in methanolic and diethyl ether stem extracts and in the bark extracts of all the three solvents. Steroids was present in ethanolic leaf extract and in bark extracts of all the three solvents while tannin was present only in methanolic leaf and bark extracts.

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref