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
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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
Metabolite Profiling of Balinese Grape (Vitis vinifera L. Var. Alphonso Lavallee) Kombucha: GC-MS Analysis
Ida Ayu Manik Damayanti, Nadya Treesna Wulansari, Ni Wayan Kesari Dharmapatni, Ni Wayan Sukma Antari
Balinese grape (Vitis vinifera L. var. Alphonso Lavallee) is a local grape variety containing various phytochemical constituents. Fermentation into kombucha using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) may alter the chemical composition of the substrate through microbial metabolic activity. This study aimed to characterize the metabolite profile of Balinese grape kombucha using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). GC-MS analysis detected several chemical constituents, including fatty acid esters, alkaloids, and terpenoid hydrocarbons. The major compounds identified based on mass spectral library matching were 9-Octadecenoic acid methyl ester (E)-, acetic acid n-octadecyl ester, caffeine, and 2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22-tetracosahexaene, 2, 6, 10, 15, 19, 23-hexamethyl-, (all-E)-. These results describe the metabolite profile detected in the fermented sample and indicate changes in chemical composition following kombucha fermentation. The findings provide preliminary information on the chemical constituents of Balinese grape kombucha and may serve as a basis for further studies involving comparative analyses with unfermented substrates and confirmation of compound identities using complementary analytical approaches.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
17 Jul 20265 pages - research article
Identification and Characterization of Volatile Compounds in Antidesma bunius (Buni) Fruit Kombucha During Fermentation
Nadya Treesna Wulansari, Ni Wayan Kesari Dharmapatni, Ida Ayu Manik Damayanti, Ni Made Raningsih
Buni fruit (Antidesma bunius) is a fruit commonly found in tropical countries such as Indonesia. This fruit has the potential to be developed into kombucha tea because it contains beneficial bioactive compounds. However, the use of buni fruit as kombucha tea remains very limited and has not been studied in depth. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize the volatile compounds in buni fruit kombucha using GC-MS. This study employed a descriptive experimental design to analyze the volatile compounds in buni fruit kombucha after 8 days of fermentation using GC-MS. Buni fruit kombucha fermented for 8 days produced a dark purple color. Based on the analysis of volatile compounds, buni fruit kombucha was identified as containing 30 volatile compounds. The dominant compounds were hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, 9-octadecenoic acid methyl ester, (E)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester, octadecanoic acid ethyl ester, eicosanoic acid ester, and docosahexaenoic acid methyl ester, which are classified as fatty acid esters and lipids. Additionally, the identified alcohol compounds are patchouli alcohol and 13-tetradecen-11-yn-1-ol. Buni fruit kombucha tea undergoes chemical transformations characterized by the formation of volatile compounds such as esters, alcohols, and fatty acid derivatives as a result of microbial metabolic activity. The profile of the resulting compounds highlights the important role of biotransformation during fermentation in shaping the sensory characteristics and bioactive potential of kombucha tea.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
4 Jul 20267 pages - research article
Phytochemical Profiling with Biological Validation Reveals Therapeutic Effect of Vincetoxicum capparidifolium
Athira Prameela, Thenmozhi Krishnasamy
The present research discusses the phytochemical composition, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antiproliferative efficacy of Vincetoxicum capparidifolium leaf aqueous extract. Phytochemical characterization was performed using FTIR and LC-MS analysis. Network pharmacology was employed to identify potential molecular targets of tylophorine associated with liver associated disorders, followed by molecular docking studies. Anti-inflammatory activity and antidiabetic potential was evaluated in vitro. Cytotoxic outcomes were determined using MTT assay on HepG2 cells, along with AO/EtBr staining and DNA fragmentation analysis. FTIR investigation disclosed the occurrence of various functional groups, incorporating hydroxyl, amine, aromatic, and heteroatom-containing moieties. LC-MS profiling categorized a total of 28 compounds belonging to alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and fatty acid derivatives. Network pharmacology analysis identified 94 intersecting targets of tylophorine with liver inflammation, diabetic liver disease, and end-stage liver disease, while molecular docking showed binding affinities of tylophorine with proteins, presenting the strongest interaction with 3HHM (-8.9 kcal mol-1). The extract produced concentration-dependent inhibition of protein denaturation (9.5-68.0%), proteolytic activity (10.3-71.7%), and erythrocyte lysis (10.6-70.2%) although its activity was lower than the reference drug, aspirin. The extract also displayed inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, with greater potency against α-glucosidase (IC50=99.6 µg mL-1). The cytotoxic activity evaluated using MTT assay supported reduction in HepG2 cell viability (IC50=168 µg mL-1). AO/EtBr staining revealed increased apoptotic features, including membrane damage and nuclear condensation, while DNA fragmentation analysis verified apoptosis-mediated cell death. Overall, V. capparidifolium exhibits notable in vitro anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and cytotoxic potential, highlighting its potential as a source of bioactive compounds for further pharmacological investigations.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
11 Jul 202617 pages - research article
Computational Assessment of Plant-Derived Alkaloids for Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Properties
Abhinav Maniyeri, Karthika Krishnamoorthy
The demand for efficient antiviral treatments that go beyond traditional treatment, whose effectiveness may be compromised by viral changes and documented adverse effects following immunization, has increased due to the quick and ongoing introduction of SARS-CoV-2 variations. In this regard, a potential class of natural chemicals for SARS-CoV-2 medication development is plant-derived alkaloids, which are known for their broad-spectrum antiviral qualities. This research employs network pharmacology, gene ontology, and molecular docking to find effective alkaloid candidates that can target conserved viral proteins across SARS-CoV-2 variations. 5 bioactive alkaloids were screened against three key coronavirus proteins—2AJF (spike RBD–ACE2 complex), 2DD8 (spike RBD-neutralizing antibody complex), and 2J98 (replication-associated nsp9 protein). Binding affinities ranged from -6.0 to -11.3 kcal/mol, with Manzamine A emerging as the strongest inhibitor across all targets (2AJF: -11.3, 2DD8: -10.0, 2J98: -9.1 kcal/mol). Its stable hydrogen-bonding network and interactions with key amino acids suggest strong potential to disrupt viral entry, immune evasion mechanisms, and replication processes. Network pharmacology revealed 5, 272 SARS-CoV-2 associated genes, of which 51 overlapped with alkaloid-related targets. Venn analysis identified 6 shared genes, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction highlighted critical hub regulators like MTOR, AKT1, STAT3, SYK, CASP3, and JAK2 implicated in immune modulation, apoptosis, inflammation, and viral pathogenicity. The combined computational approach identifies Manzamine A as a promising natural scaffold for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug development. Experimental validation through in vitro, in vivo, MD simulation and pharmacokinetic research is still necessary to show clinical application, even though the results provide insightful information for future therapeutic design.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
12 Jul 202613 pages - research article
Optimization of Extraction Conditions and Kinetics of Antioxidant Compounds from Polyalthia longifolia Leaves
Poro David Clark
This study aimed to optimize phenolic antioxidant extraction from Polyalthia longifolia leaves using hot maceration with 70% ethanol and to characterize the extraction kinetics under optimal conditions. Response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effects of extraction time and temperature on extraction yield, total phenolic content (TPC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Both factors significantly influenced all responses, with the extraction yield and TPC increasing progressively with temperature and time. FRAP, however, exhibited a dome-shaped response, peaking at intermediate temperatures before declining under prolonged high-temperature conditions, consistent with the thermal degradation of heat-labile antioxidants. The highest phenolic recovery and antioxidant activity were achieved at the upper boundary of the experimental domain, suggesting that the true optimum may lie beyond the conditions tested. Kinetic analysis further revealed that antioxidant-active compounds were mobilized faster than the bulk extractable mass, with implications for reducing extraction time and energy consumption at scale. These findings provide a statistically guided and kinetically informed foundation for the valorization of Polyalthia longifolia leaves, supporting future process optimization across broader solvent systems and extraction techniques for functional food and nutraceutical applications.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
9 Jul 202611 pages