Abstract: The present study evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Mimusops elengi Bojer leaf extract encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) using murine models, to determine whether nanoparticle formulation enhances the biological effects of a methanolic plant extract. Preliminary phytochemical screening was conducted using established qualitative colorimetric assays, which indicated the presence of major secondary metabolite classes, including phenolics and flavonoids; these tests were intended for compositional inference rather than definitive compound identification. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were subsequently quantified using spectrophotometric methods, yielding 806.12 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g and 103.08 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g of extract, respectively. Antinociceptive activity was assessed using acetic acid–induced writhing and hot-plate assays, while anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated via the carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Animals treated with M. elengi–loaded CS-NPs exhibited statistically significant reductions in writhing responses, prolonged pain reaction latency, and decreased paw edema when compared with untreated controls and animals receiving the crude extract (p < 0.05). Inflammatory mediator analysis further demonstrated significant downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and PGE₂) alongside upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-22). Oxidative stress assessment showed reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating attenuation of lipid peroxidation. All experiments were conducted with appropriate replication, and data were subjected to statistical analysis to ensure reproducibility. While the phytochemical screening provides preliminary compositional insights, the observed pharmacological effects are attributed to the combined action of extract constituents and improved delivery via chitosan nanoparticles. Overall, the findings support the hypothesis that nanoparticle-based formulation can enhance the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory efficacy of M. elengi leaf extract, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapeutic approach while underscoring the need for further compound-level characterization and safety evaluation. Show less...

Abstract: In West African cultures, Picralima nitida has long been used in medicine for providing pain relief, controlling inflammation, reducing fever, and fighting infections. This study compares the elemental and proximate compositions, antimicrobial activities, and acute toxicity of the leaf and seed extracts of P. nitida. The samples were extracted using the cold maceration method. Elemental analysis revealed high levels of magnesium, calcium, and potassium in the leaf extract, while the seed extract contained lower amounts. The leaves also had a higher crude fiber content (15.5%), whereas the seeds were richer in crude protein (19.47%) and ether extract (14.00%). The leaf extract prevented the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa, yet did not affect C. albicans. The seed extract exhibited a broader and stronger inhibitory effect against P. aeruginosa. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of E. coli and P. aeruginosa were both 100 mg/mL (15.00 mm inhibition zone) when tested with the leaf extract, whereas S. aureus had an MIC of 75 mg/mL (13.00 mm inhibition zone). The MICs of the seed extract were 25 mg/mL (9.00 mm inhibition zone) for E. coli and S. aureus, 75 mg/mL (18.40 mm inhibition zone) for P. aeruginosa, and 25 mg/mL (11.20 mm inhibition zone) for C. albicans. For the toxicity tests, the leaf extract appeared safer for animals (mice) with no adverse effect at an LD50 of 800mg/kg, whereas the seed showed a notable adverse effect with an LD50 of ≥283 mg/kg. These experimental findings show the health benefit of P. nitida leaves and seeds in traditional medicines and its potential as an anti-microbial agent and use for dietary purposes. Show less...