Sciences of Phytochemistry
Volume 3 Issue 1
Showing 8 Articles
RESEARCH ARTICLE
- research article
Aphrodisiac Activity of Clove Leaves (Syzygium aromaticum L.) Ethanol Extract and Fractions in Wistar rats
Rezky Yanuarty, Muthmainnah Tuldjanah, Ayu Wulandari
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation are prevalent male sexual dysfunctions affecting various age groups. This study explores the potential aphrodisiac effects of Clove leaves (Syzygium aromaticum L.), a plant rich in secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and steroids. Fractionation of the ethanol extract yielded n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water fractions. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins in the water fraction, while steroids were detected in the ethanol extract, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane fractions. In vivo tests on male rats demonstrated that the ethanol extract, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate fractions significantly reduced mounting latency (ML), increased mounting frequency (MF), and accelerated intromission latency (IL), indicating heightened sexual arousal and endurance. Moreover, these fractions delayed ejaculatory latency (EL) and increased ejaculation frequency (EF), akin to the positive control, X-Gra. Notably, the n-hexane fraction showed the closest efficacy to X-Gra. The presence of steroids in the active fractions suggests their role in eliciting aphrodisiac effects. Further isolation and purification of the active compound(s) may optimize therapeutic outcomes. This study underscores the potential of Clove leaf fractions as natural aphrodisiacs, warranting further investigation for clinical applications.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
2 Jun 20246 pages - research article
Phytoconstituents, Fourier-Transform Infrared Characterization, and Antioxidant Potential of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Corchorus olitorius (Malvaceae)
Mubarak Muhammad Dahiru, Abubakar Sadiq Umar, Musa Muhammad, Asma'u Abubakar Waziri, Ibrahim Ishaq Fari, Zuwaira Yusuf Musa
Oxidative stress is a condition that is characterized by the generation of reactive oxygen species more than the amount endogenous antioxidants can absorb. Several diseases are associated with oxidative stress, notably during disease progression. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the phytoconstituents and antioxidant potential of the ethyl acetate leaf extract of Corchorus olitorius (ELEC). The phytochemicals were qualitatively and quantitatively determined, followed by characterization using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The antioxidant potential was determined in vitro. Alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids were detected in concentrations of 8.50 ± 2.65, 11.83 ± 0.73, and 19.17% ± 0.73, respectively. The FTIR spectrum revealed 9 peaks including six at the group frequency region corresponding to alcohols, carboxylic acid, amine salts, alkenes, alkyne, esters, and oxime functional groups. The ELEC exhibited lower total reducing power (11.06 ± 1.34 AAE µg/ml) compared to its total antioxidant capacity (49.26 ±2.44 AAE µg/ml) with a higher (60.47% ± 2.44) percentage inhibition of peroxidation than AA (37.98% ± 1.88). Furthermore, the ELEC exhibited a lower (0.20 ± 0.01 nmol/ml) MDA concentration than AA (0.42 ±s 0.02 nmol/ml). Conclusively, C. olitorius might be applied for the management of oxidative stress-linked ailments and a source of novel therapeutics for these ailments.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
10 Feb 202410 pages 
research articleIn Silico Larvicidal Activity Study of Six Limonoids Against Mosquito Larvae (Aedes aegypti L.) Ecdysone Receptor Protein
Mohamed Said Rajab
In an earlier study, six limonoids namely pyroangolensolide, calodendrolide, limonin, limonin diosphenol, harrisonin and pedonin were reported to exhibit varying larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti L. second instar larvae. The degraded limonoids exhibited a higher larvicidal activity relative to the more complex compounds. To investigate this observation at the relevant Aedes aegypti L. receptor level, the six limonoids were subjected to an in silico docking study to evaluate the binding characteristics of the selected limonoids in the ecdysone receptor (EcR) protein (PDB code 1z5x). This was compared with the binding affinity of the dipteran specific ecdysone agonist, RH 5849 (1,2-Dibenzoyl-1-tert-butylhydrazine). The EcR protein1z5x-LBP was identified from literature data. The binding energies of the ligands docked in the EcR protein 1z5x-LBP ranged from 3.0 to -9.1 kcal/mol and the dissociation constants (Kd) ranged from 2.10×10-7 M to 1.59×10+2 M. RH 5849 had a binding energy of -8.9 kcal/mol which was comparable with those displayed by pyroangolensolide (-9.1 kcal/mol) and calodendrolide (-9.0 kcal mol). Two pharmacophoric factors were important in the observed binding: (a) the hydrogen-bonding interactions by the residues Arg 271, Arg 275 Tyr 296. Thr231 and Ala 286 and (b) the hydrophobic pocket residues Met 268, Met 272, Met 269, Phe 285, and Leu 308. The binding affinities of the selected limonoids in the EcR pocket compared well with the observed larvicidal activity as reported earlier and in the literature. This study offers an opportunity to develop structurally simpler and specific receptor targeted larvicides against Aedes aegypti L.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
15 Mar 20247 pages- research article
Phytochemical Profiling of Passiflora edulis Vines
Emmanuel Eimiomodebheki Odion, Godfavour Nzubechukwu Nwigwe, Daniel Akpe-Efiak Ambe, Monica Nnenna Nnamani, Chinyelu Clementina Osigwe, Eravweroso Congrat Odiete, Loveth Uchechukwu Iyanyi
Over time Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa (PEFF) have been utilized in traditional medicine for the treatment of different health ailments. This study aims to identify the phytochemical constituents in the vines of PEFF responsible for its traditional usage. Maceration in methanol was used in the extraction of the powdered vines and standard procedures were also used to screen for its phytochemical contents. Two chromatographic techniques such as High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) were exploited to identify and quantify the phytoconstituents in the methanol extract. Phytochemical screening showed alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, saponins and terpenoids in the vines of PEFF. Prominent compound revealed by HPLC analysis include pyrogallol (18.64%), ferulic acid (13.71%), ellagic acid (12.88%), salicylic acid (10.83%), ribalinidine (10.50%) and cresol (9.67%). While the GC-MS analysis showed Octadec-9-enoic acid (67.78%); 3-methylindole-2-carboxlic acid,4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-, ethyl ester (16.89%) and 3-aminopyrrolidine (14.52%). Thus, the vines of PEFF contain phytoconstituents responsible for it use in traditional medicine.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
12 Mar 20249 pages - research article
Boswellia dalzielii Methanol Stem Bark Extract Demonstrates Significant Analgesic Activity in Swiss Albino Mice
Hauwau Abubakar, Albashir Tahir, Aminu Kura Umar
Medicinal plants are gaining popularity as safer and more natural alternatives to orthodox medicines for managing health challenges and diseases. One such plant is Boswellia dalzielii, a renowned tree in northern Nigeria extensively used due to its ethnomedicinal importance. To determine the analgesic properties of B. dalzielii methanol extract (BDME), the extract was screened in mice using thermal and acetic acid-induced pain models. The extract's acute toxicity and phytochemical constituents were determined using standard protocols. The results showed that the acute toxicity of the methanol stem bark extract was greater than 2000 mg/kg. Phytochemical screening of BDME revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and glycosides. The extract, at the dose of 50 mg/kg significantly (p < 0.05) prolonged the pain reaction time at 15 and 30 minutes in the hot plate test, and reduced acetic acid-induced writhing at the 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg doses. The analgesic activity of the extract may be attributed to the phytochemical contents. The findings suggest that BDME have analgesic properties and could be beneficial in alleviating painful conditions.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
17 Apr 20246 pages 
research articleChemical profiling of essential oils: Investigations into modulating milk production in dairy cows using in silico methods
İsmihan GÖZE, Sibel KAYMAK, Nilüfer VURAL
This study aimed to assess the biological and biotherapeutic activities of essential oils derived from the medicinal plants Tanacetum vulgare L., Myrtus communis L. subsp. communis L., and Pimpinella flabellifolia (Boiss.) Benth. Et Hook. ex Drude. Plant samples were systematically collected from the Sivas region of Türkiye. Subsequently, essential oils were extracted using a Clevenger-type apparatus, and their compositions were assessed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Then, antioxidant activities of the essential oil samples were investigated using β-carotene-linoleic acid and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of these species was assessed via the disc diffusion assay. Finally, the potential effects of the essential oil compositions from these plants on milk production in dairy cows were analyzed through in-silico methods.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
16 Apr 202411 pages- research article
Lemon Oil Enhances the Anti-Rheumatic Activity of Woody Essential Oils in Formaldehyde-Induced Arthritis in Wistar Rats
Emmanuel Uronnachi, Onyinyechi Okpalaku, Chidalu Ikeotuonye
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a major challenge, especially in the elderly. Many orthodox drugs have been helpful in managing the disease; however, deleterious side effects have been reported. Essential oils have been shown to exhibit anti-arthritic properties. This study highlights and compares the chemical composition and anti-arthritic activities of essential oils from Citrus limon, Zingiber officinale, and Curcuma longa. Twenty-seven Wister rats of both sexes were divided into 9 groups of three animals each. Acute non-immunological arthritis was induced by a sub-plantar injection of 0.1 mL formaldehyde (2% v/v). The animals were treated topically with essential oils extracted by hydro-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography. Measurement of paw volumes was done daily for 10 days using the volume displacement method. Ginger oil and turmeric oil achieved a 100% reduction in paw volume from the 8th day (p< 0.05). The coconut oil as carrier for the essential oils exhibited sub-optimal reductions when administered alone as a control. Combinations of the oils showed an antagonistic effect in the ginger/turmeric oil blend, while the essential blends of turmeric/lemon and ginger/lemon oil performed better than the individual oils. The findings from this study showed that the woody essential oils (ginger and turmeric) exhibited the greatest anti-arthritic activity of all the oil treatment groups. Terpenes like ar-turmerone, turmerone, zingiberene, and D-limonene may have been responsible for the activities observed with the turmeric, ginger, and lemon essential oils, respectively. Lemon, ginger, and turmeric essential oils are effective for the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
23 May 202410 pages - research article
Inhibition of Phospholipase A2 by Dihydrostilbene Glycoside Isolated from the Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Indigofera capitata: Structural Insights from IR and NMR
Maryam Mahmud Dauda, Garba Dauda, Sakynah Musa Abdullahi, Hadiza sada, Mohammed Ibrahim Sule, Halimatu Sadiya Hassan, Aliyu Muhammad Musa
Snakebites and subsequent envenomations remain a significant health challenge, especially in rural regions of underdeveloped countries, where they contribute to high mortality rates. In Nigeria, particularly in rural areas, the scarcity of healthcare facilities and antivenoms exacerbates the issue. Rural communities commonly seek traditional plant-based remedies due to their affordability and cultural significance. This study investigates the ethyl acetate fraction of Indigofera capitata, a plant traditionally used to treat snakebites, for its potential to inhibit phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity. Chromatographic separation of the ethyl acetate fraction led to the isolation of a greenish solid substance, coded MM2, identified as 3-methoxyl, 5, 4', 5' trihydroxyl, 6' pentyl-4-O-glycopyranoside through chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. The inhibition of PLA2 was assessed using an in vitro acidimetric assay. Compound MM2 was tested at 1 mg/mL, 0.1 mg/mL, and 0.01 mg/mL. The highest inhibition of 47.37% was observed at 1 mg/mL. At 0.1 mg/mL, the inhibition decreased to 36.84%, indicating reduced efficacy. Interestingly, at 0.01 mg/mL, the inhibition returned to 47.37%, suggesting that the enzyme inhibition by MM2 is concentration-independent within the tested range. The promising PLA2 inhibition observed with compound MM2 supports its potential as an antivenom agent. This research highlights the therapeutic potential of I. capitata in addressing the global snakebite crisis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report documenting this compound's isolation, characterization, and antivenin screening.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
19 May 202513 pages
Journal Key Facts
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No Charge
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CC BY 4.0
Language
English
Overview
Sciences of Phytochemistry (Sci. Phytochem.) is an international, peer-reviewed journal published by ETFLIN, dedicated to advancing research in all aspects of phytochemistry and plant-derived bioactive compounds. The journal provides a platform for the dissemination of original research, reviews, and scientific communications that explore the chemistry, biological activities, and applications of natural products derived from plants. We welcome contributions that deepen the understanding of the chemical diversity of plants and their potential in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, agriculture, cosmetics, and environmental sustainability.
Latest Articles
Recently published research articles, review papers, and technical notes from the current volume of the journal.
- research article
Phytochemical Extraction from Mediterranean Plants: A Comparative Study of Traditional Techniques
Elodie Melro, Carolina F. Jesus, Tomás Duarte, Andreia A. S. Alves, Filipe E. Antunes, Margarida Lindo, Daniel Ribeiro
This comparative screening study investigated how solvent polarity and extraction technique influence the recovery of bioactive compounds from four Portuguese native plants: Geranium robertianum (herb Robert), Olea europaea (olive leaves), Salvia rosmarinus (rosemary) and Laurus nobilis (bay laurel). Maceration and Soxhlet extractions were performed using five solvents spanning a polarity range (methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane and hexane), followed by colorimetric phytochemical screening and extraction-yield comparison; aqueous infusion and water-based Soxhlet extraction were also assessed. Among the organic solvents tested, methanol generally gave the highest extraction yields, whereas aqueous extraction showed species-dependent behavior; for example, infusion yields for olive leaves and rosemary ranged from approximately 26% to 34%, whereas water-based Soxhlet extraction of herb Robert exceeded 35%. Qualitative phytochemical assays indicated the broadest class-level detection in methanolic extracts, whereas tannins were not detected in ethanolic extracts and were only evidenced in bay laurel under less-polar conditions. GC–MS profiling of ethanolic extracts provided comparative species-dependent fingerprints dominated by fatty acid derivatives and terpenoid-related compounds within the analytical window of the method, with Soxhlet generally enhancing late-eluting hydrophobic metabolites; rosemary was enriched in phenolic diterpenes, herb Robert and olive leaves showed a stronger contribution of carbohydrate-related compounds, and bay laurel displayed a comparatively simpler lipid/terpenoid profile. These results provide a preliminary n exploratory comparative framework for future studies on extraction-condition selection basis for selecting extraction conditions according to plant matrix and analytical purpose.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
14 May 202612 pages - research article
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Acetone Extract of Green Coffee Beans: An In Vitro Assay
Chimezie Alexdaniel Chukwuemeka, Chukwudi Jude Ofoegbu, Nnaemeka Promise Amadi
This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory potential of the acetone extract of green coffee beans (Coffea excelsa) using in vitro assays. The extract was assessed for its ability to inhibit protein denaturation and stabilize biological membranes using heat-induced hemolysis of human erythrocytes as a model. The extract exhibited an overall increase in inhibitory effect across the tested concentrations in both assays. In the protein denaturation assay, percentage inhibition increased from 13.10% at 100 µg/mL to 70.45% at 1000 µg/mL, with an IC₅₀ value of 249.8 µg/mL. Similarly, in the membrane stabilization assay, inhibition ranged from 21.16% to 62.06% across the same concentration range, with an IC₅₀ value of 391.6 µg/mL. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s post hoc test indicated that all tested concentrations produced significant effects compared to the control (p < 0.0001). IC₅₀ values were determined using nonlinear regression analysis (n = 3). Although the extract showed lower activity compared with acetylsalicylic acid, it demonstrated moderate anti-inflammatory activity. These effects may be associated with the presence of bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids; however, this cannot be confirmed since no phytochemical analysis was conducted in this study. Overall, these results indicate that the acetone extract of green coffee beans possesses measurable anti-inflammatory properties in vitro, suggesting that it may serve as a potential source of bioactive compounds for further investigation. Further studies, including phytochemical characterization and in vivo evaluations, are required to validate these findings.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
21 Apr 20267 pages - research article
Comprehensive phytochemical profiling and in-silico evaluation of endemic medicinal plant Symplocos obtusa
J. Malavika, K. Thenmozhi
Symplocos obtusa Wall. Ex G. Don. (Symplocaceae) is an endemic medicinal plant whose pharmacological potential remains largely uncharacterized. This study utilized integrated in vitro and in silico methodologies to establish a comprehensive phytochemical and therapeutic profile of its ethanolic leaf extract. Initial screening revealed a significant extractive yield of 6.0%, with substantial concentrations of total phenolics (4.30 ± 0.02 mg GAE/g), tannins (2.91 ± 0.02 mg GAE/g), and flavonoids (71.15 ± 0.86 mg RE/g). Structural characterization via FTIR spectroscopy confirmed diverse functional groups, while GC-MS analysis identified 19 bioactive constituents with putative pharmacological relevance. The extract demonstrated potent antioxidant capacity across multiple benchmarks, yielding an IC50
IC_{50} IC50 of 26.55 ± 0.61 µg/mL in DPPH assays, alongside robust activity in ABTS (27.09 ± 0.11 µmol/g) and phosphomolybdenum (51.38 ± 0.08 mg/g) evaluations. Computational in silico modeling further corroborated the safety and therapeutic viability of the identified compounds, predicting favorable drug-likeness and low toxicity profiles (Classes IV–VI). Collectively, these findings validate S. obtusa as a prolific reservoir of bioactive secondary metabolites, supporting its development as a candidate for plant-derived drug discovery and antioxidant therapy.Sciences of Phytochemistry
20 May 202611 pages - research article
Formulation and Pharmaceutical Evaluation of Capsules Containing the n-Hexane Fraction of Moringa oleifera Leaves
Sylvester Nefai Mathias, Aliyu Hamidu Ahmed, Emmanuel Halilu Mshelia, Achor Mohammed, Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor, Mansur Lawal, Ibrahim Yusuf Alkali, Nkeiruka Nkeonyere Igbokwe, Cletus Anes Ukwubile, Ahmed Aminu Biambo
This study investigated the phytochemical composition, safety profile, and pharmaceutical formulation of capsules containing the hexane fraction of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOHx). The main objective of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the phytochemical constituents, toxicity profile, and develop a standardized oral capsule formulation of the hexane fraction of M. oleifera leaves suitable for potential therapeutic application. Phytochemical profiling was performed using LC–MS and GC–MS, and compounds were tentatively identified based on spectral library matching and fragmentation patterns. Selected phytochemicals were evaluated using in silico ADMET prediction and molecular docking analyses. Acute oral toxicity was assessed in Wistar rats using Lorke’s method. Pre-formulation studies were conducted prior to capsule formulation using the wet granulation technique. The granules were evaluated for micromeritic properties, and the capsules were subjected to pharmacopoeial quality tests including weight uniformity, disintegration, and dissolution. The estimated LD₅₀ of the extract was 3.808 mg/kg body weight, indicating relatively low acute toxicity. Dissolution testing showed more than 80% release within 20 min under the experimental conditions employed. These findings suggest that the developed capsule formulation provides a suitable pharmaceutical dosage form for the hexane fraction of M. oleifera, although further studies including stability testing, quantitative phytochemical standardization, and pharmacological evaluation are required.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
6 Apr 202617 pages - research article
Green-synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Cissus aralioides: Characterization, and Antimicrobial Potentials
Innocent Chukwujekwu Onunkwo, Mary Olire Edema, Christiana E. Ogwuche, Bamidele H. Akpeji
Antimicrobial resistance represents a critical global challenge due to microbial enzymes that neutralize antibiotic efficacy, prompting the use of nanotechnology to enhance the therapeutic potential of plant properties. In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were biosynthesized using a methanol extract of Cissus aralioides leaves obtained through Soxhlet extraction. Characterization via UV-vis, FTIR, PXRD, SEM, EDX, and TEM revealed a maximum absorption at 398 nm, a bandgap energy of 3.12 eV, and a hexagonal wurtzite structure with an average particle size of 15.90 ± 2.81 nm. FTIR analysis confirmed essential chemical groups (C-H, C=O, O-H), while SEM and EDX showed rough surfaces with a predominant zinc content of 80.76%. The antimicrobial potential of these ZnONPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Candida albicans using the agar well diffusion method at concentrations of 100–400 mg/mL. Results demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity, with the highest sensitivity observed against S. aureus (24.0 ± 0.01 mm), followed by C. albicans, E. coli, and Aspergillus sp., and an estimated minimum inhibitory concentration of 100–300 mg/mL. Consequently, this research highlights the potential of green-synthesized ZnONPs as a viable alternative for managing pathogenic microorganisms.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
11 May 202613 pages