Antioxidant

This study evaluates the antioxidant and toxicity profiles of Alstonia boonei aqueous root extract in Wistar rats, a plant widely used in African traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. Despite its extensive traditional use, limited scientific data exist on its biochemical effects and potential toxicity. This study aims to assess the antioxidant activity and safety profile of Alstonia
boonei to validate its pharmacological relevance. Fourteen Wistar rats were assigned to three groups : a control group and four treatment groups receiving varying doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg) of Alstonia boonei root extract for 21 days. Biochemical assays assessed glutathione (GSH), vitamin C levels, total protein concentration, and organ weights. Acute and subacute toxicity studies were conducted, and statistical significance was determined using one-way ANOVA (p ≤ 0.05). No mortality or observable toxicity symptoms were recorded, confirming the extract’s safety at doses up to 5000 mg/kg. A dose-dependent increase in total protein concentration was observed in the liver, reaching 2.60 ± 0.13 g/dL in the 100 mg/kg group (p ≤ 0.05), suggesting enhanced protein synthesis. However, GSH levels declined significantly in the liver from 124.59 ± 2.62 µg/mL (control) to 23.77 ± 0.82 µg/mL (100 mg/kg), indicating a potential transient depletion of antioxidant reserves. Vitamin C levels showed a compensatory increase, peaking at 76.62 ± 27.27 µg/mL in the liver of the 500 mg/kg group. The findings suggest that Alstonia boonei root extract exhibits strong antioxidant potential while maintaining a favorable safety profile. However, the observed depletion of GSH highlights the need for caution in prolonged use. Future research should explore long-term effects, optimal dosage, and molecular mechanisms to ensure its safe application in medicine.

Luffa cylindrica is a popular, medicinal vine belonging to the Curcubitaceae family that reproduces from seeds. Commonly called loofah, Luffa cylindrica is used in treating pains, backaches, rheumatoid arthritis, fever, syphilis, dysentery and tumours. Luffa cylindrica fruit extracts, using ethanol was studied to explore its In-vitro antioxidant activity and HPLC profile. DDPH (α, α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl) radical, FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power), Hydroxyl radical, and Nitric oxide scavenging activity were assayed to determine the antioxidant capacity of Luffa cylindrica. Also, bioactive compounds were determined using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Phytochemical screening of the ethanoic extract of the Luffa cylindrica fruit extracts indicated the presence of steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, alkaloids and phenolic compounds. Quercetin was the most predominant compound present.

Cissus populnea has been reported to have high antioxidant content which is beneficial to health. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects aqueous extract of Cissus pulpolnae on the liver of Wistar rats. Twenty (20) male Wistar rats were allowed to acclimatize for two weeks under standard laboratory conditions (temperature 24-28°C and 12 hour light-dark cycle) before commencement of the experiment. The rats in each group were allowed access to standard rat chow and water ad libitum throughout the experimental period. The rats were randomly assigned into a control group and three treatment groups (5) rats each. The rats in Group A served as control and received feed and water ad libitum only. The treatment groups B received intraperitoneal injection of 30% CCl4 only; group C received 500 mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Cissus populnea only; group D received 500 mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Cissus populnea and intraperitoneal injection of 30% CCl4. The experimental period lasted for 14 days. At the end of the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed under chloroform anaesthesia. Blood samples were collected, in plain bottles, from the Inferior vena cava of each rat for biochemical assay. The liver was excised and fixed in 10% buffered formalsaline for routine histological processing. The data generated were subjected to statistical analysis. Significant difference in the means of all parameters was determined using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA; 95% confidence interval). The result obtained showed that CCL4 induced some pathologies on the liver tissue ranging from formation of lipid vacuoles (steatosis) to degeneration of the hepatocyte and obliteration of the sinusoids. Cissus populnea ameliorated the pathologies induced by CCL4 on the liver tissue. It is concluded however that Cissus populnea possess hepatoprotective potential against CCL4 insult.

Background: Herbal products, typically derived from plant sources, are often perceived as safer
alternatives and are widely used for their therapeutic and antioxidant benefits. This study will help to determine physicochemical and antioxidant properties of some selected liquid herbal products. Methods: Seven selected liquid herbal products (Mojeaga herbal remedy, Goodwill's herbal mixture, pro-life herbal remedy malaria & Typhoid, Goko cleanser, Ganacin G-7 ulcer solution, Evaking herbs ulcer & pile removal and orijin bitter) were obtained from various pharmacies throughout Edo State, Nigeria. Samples underwent sensory evaluation, followed by measurements of specific gravity, pH, viscosity, and antioxidant properties through DPPH radical scavenging activity using spectrophotometric analysis at 517 nm wavelength. Results: The organoleptic properties evaluation of the products revealed that most of the samples had a very strong characteristics odor, except Mojeaga and Goodswill that have aromatic scent, they
all taste bitter except Ganacin and Evakings herbs that were sweet and tasteless. In terms of color, majority of the products showed deep brown coloration, while Ganacin and goko cleanser appeared moudy and dark. The specific gravity ranges from (0.72 to 1.83 g/mL). The pH analysis showed that all products were acidic (ranging from 3.10 to 6.96). All seven herbal products exhibited high viscosity which ranges from (2805 to 5748 cp). The antioxidant assay indicated that all the products contain antioxidant which ranges from (39.13% to 65.22%). Conclusion: The findings suggest that most of the evaluated herbal products possess notable
antioxidant properties and favorable physicochemical characteristics. These attributes act
synergistically to enhance product stability and reduce the risk of degradation or contamination
during storage. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of these formulations may contribute to
protection against infections and minimize adverse effects when used by patients.