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
Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Activity of Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd. ) Poir Root Extracts.
Victor Wagner Barajas-Carrillo, Carlos Eduardo Covantes-Rosales, Valeria Estefanía Castrejón-Medina, Alexander Manuel Mendoza-Martínez, Saul Toledo, Adela Yolanda Bueno-Durán, Mercedes Zambrano-Soria, Karina Janice Guadalupe Díaz-Resendiz, Laura Janeth Díaz-Rubio, Iván Córdova-Guerrero
This study evaluated the phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity of extracts and partitions derived from the root of Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd. ) Poir. , also known as tepezcohuite. Three extracts were prepared through hydroalcoholic maceration, total alkaloid extraction, and Soxhlet extraction. Additionally, four partitions were obtained from the ethanolic extract using the modified Kupchan technique: n-hexane, dichloromethane, n-butanol, and water. Qualitative phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, reducing sugars, coumarins, and cardiac glycosides in various several fractions, while no anthraquinone glycosides were detected. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and ABTS assays. In the DPPH assay, the most active fractions were the butanolic (EC50 = 2.20 ± 0.45 µg/mL) and the ethanolic (EC50 = 2.25 ± 0.01 µg/mL). While, in the ABTS assay, the ethanolic extract and butanol partition were the most active fractions with EC50 values of 4.87 ± 1.11 µg/mL and 5.43 ± 0.21 µg/mL respectively. The less polar fractions (n-hexane, Soxhlet) exhibited lower activity. This study expands the phytochemical knowledge of M. tenuiflora, focusing on its roots, an organ less extensively characterized than the bark regarding its comprehensive phytochemical and antioxidant profile. The results show that this organ is a promising source of bioactive metabolites with antioxidant capacity. This finding justifies further investigation into the pharmacological and therapeutic applications of these compounds, which is particularly relevant given that while previous research has systematically favored the bark, and existing root studies have focused primarily on specific alkaloids, comprehensive profiling remains limited.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
6 Apr 202612 pages - research article
A Computational Investigation of Cathinone, the Major Psychotropic Alkaloid from Muguka (a Cultivar of Catha edulis), Co-administered with Diazepam
Mohamed Said Rajab
Muguka, a high-cathinone cultivar of Catha edulis consumed widely in East Africa, presents a growing health risk when co-administered with diazepam. This theoretical study represents one of the first integrated computational investigations focusing on the interaction between Muguka derived cathinone and diazepam, combining molecular docking, ADMET profiling, and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling. The in silico analysis identified overlapping CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 pathways, supporting potential mutual metabolic inhibition. The predictive PBPK models suggest moderate CYP2D6/CYP2C19-mediated drug-drug interactions based on a simulated oral dose of 100 mg cathinone and 30 mg diazepam in a human adult population. Co-administration is predicted to increase cathinone systemic exposure by 1.5-fold (AUC ↑50%) and reduce clearance by 33%, while diazepam exposure is projected to rise by 1.3-fold (AUC ↑30%) with 24% clearance reduction. Molecular docking revealed high-affinity binding of cathinone (-6.4 kcal/mol) at the dopamine transporter (DAT) and diazepam (-6.8 kcal/mol) at the γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABA-A) receptor, indicating distinct yet potentially complementary CNS targets. Collectively, these computational predictions suggest that co-use may prolong CNS exposure and theoretically enhance neurotoxicity, and dependence risk. This integrated computational framework provides a hypothetical mechanistic evidence for stimulant-benzodiazepine interactions and underscores the need for clinical monitoring and validation.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
25 Feb 20269 pages - research article
Phytochemical Analysis, Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Mimusops elengi Bojer Leaf Extract-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles in Albino Mice
Cletus Anes Ukwubile, Chidi Kaosi Clement
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.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
22 Jan 202613 pages - research article
Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity in Sorghum bicolor Leaves Extracts
Poro David Clark, Gloria Ihuoma Ndukwe, Kehinde Jonathan Awatefe
This study investigated the phytochemical composition and in-vitro antioxidant potential of leaves extracts from Sorghum bicolor, which were obtained through sequential maceration with solvents of different polarities (n-hexane and methanol). The extraction yields revealed a predominance of polar compounds, with methanol extract (12.5% w/w) significantly higher than the n-hexane extract (1.7% w/w). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) profiling, using NIST library matching (similarity scores > 80%) without reference standards, showed distinct patterns based on solvent use: the n-hexane extract contained nine primarily lipophilic compounds, mainly consisting of Z-2-octadecen-1-ol and octadecenoic acid derivatives, whereas the methanol extract yielded fifteen characterized by polar fatty acids and oxygenated derivatives. Identifications were tentative; those with lower match scores or inconsistent retention times required confirmation through alternative methods. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated via 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, hydroxyl radical inhibitory activity (HRIA), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The methanol extract demonstrated concentration-dependent DPPH scavenging (IC₅₀ = 0.1402 mg/L), comparable to vitamin C (0.1369 mg/L) in this assay, while the n-hexane extract showed weaker activity (IC₅₀ 3.22 mg/L). In HRIA and FRAP assays, vitamin C consistently showed greater activity than either extract, with n-hexane IC50 estimates constrained by poor curve fits (R2< 0.9). Overall, the methanol extract surpassed the n-hexane extract across all assays but did not match the effectiveness of vitamin C. These in-vitro results suggest that S. bicolor leaves contain polar phytochemicals that merit further fractionation, compound-level characterization, and evaluation in biologically relevant models to elucidate their potential as sources of natural antioxidants.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
17 Feb 202612 pages - research article
Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology of Cycas revoluta Thunb.: An Updated Review
Abdul Jaleel K, Prakash PS, Nakshathra KV, Devika V
Cycas revoluta Thunb. (sago palm), a cycad native to southern Japan, is widely cultivated and has a long history of ethnobotanical use, including as a famine food and in traditional medicine, but is also well known for its pronounced toxicity to humans and animals. This review critically synthesizes literature published between 1958–2025 on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of C. revoluta from ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Presented as a structured narrative review, the study highlights diverse phytochemicals, including biflavonoids, cycasin, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), and reported antimicrobial peptides, noting variability in compound verification and reproducibility. Reported pharmacological activities are derived mainly from in vitro and preclinical studies, with limited in vivo validation and no established clinical relevance, whereas toxicological evidence for neurotoxicity, genotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity is robust. This imbalance underscores the need for caution in extrapolating therapeutic potential. Key gaps include inadequate extract standardization, limited bioavailability and safety data, and overreliance on single-study findings. Future research should prioritize rigorous toxicological assessment and reproducible validation before any translational application is considered. In addition, the review emphasizes the importance of distinguishing traditional knowledge from experimentally validated evidence and separating descriptive phytochemical inventories from mechanistic and translational insights. Particular attention is given to methodological limitations, including inconsistent extraction protocols, insufficient structural confirmation of reported compounds, and the frequent absence of dose–response, pharmacokinetic, and long-term safety evaluations. By adopting a critical and balanced perspective, this review aims to guide future studies toward scientifically rigorous, ethically responsible, and clinically relevant research directions.
Sciences of Phytochemistry
28 Jan 202610 pages