A contribution to the phytochemical and antibacterial characteristics of Crinum macowanii bulbs extracts
- Authors: Sebola, Tendani Edith
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Crinum macowanii , Botanical chemistry , Medicinal plants , Pharmaceutical biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235673 , uj:24105
- Description: M.Tech. (Biotechnology) , Abstract: The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014 indicated that about 80% of the world’s population depend on medicinal plants for their primary health care, due to accessibility, affordability and cultural significance. However, issues such as extinction due to cultivation and lack of scientific validation of the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants through phytochemical and pharmacological screening hinder the sustainability and conversion of medicinal plants into a commodity of high value. Crinum macowanii Baker is a plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family under the genus Crinum. The species from the genus occurr world-wide in America, Africa, and southern Asia to Australia, with Africa having the most species. Crinum macowanii Baker grows in many habitats like grasslands, beside rivers and along the coast and in various types of soil. The plant has a deciduous bulb, with fleshy roots and bright green to bluish green leaves and large white lilies with dark pink stripes. The flower produces about 20 to 80 small seeds that appear as smooth, pale green to silvery and fleshy. The bulbs are 6-25 cm in diameter. The flowers have a heavy scent and are normally 4-20 cm and with pedicels up to 6.5 cm long. Traditionally, C. macowanii has been used for different applications in humans and animals since its known to possess medicinal properties. Crinum macowanii is used traditionally as a remedy for the treatment of boils, diarrhoea, fever, inflammation, respiratory system problems, skin rashes, tuberculosis, wounds and urinary tract problems. The bulbs are also used to increase lactation in women and cows. such indicates that the plant has phytochemicals which explains its continued used. The plant has shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. A number of alkaloids have been isolated from the plant which cannot all account for the biological uses of the plant and therefore this study was done to investigate the phytochemicals present in the plant and its antibacterial activity. Crinum macowanii bulbs were purchased from Faraday Muti Market in Johannesburg South Africa. The bulbs were subjected to solvent extraction and pressurized hot water extraction. The solvent extraction produced the highest yield as compared to the pressurized hot water extracts...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sebola, Tendani Edith
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Crinum macowanii , Botanical chemistry , Medicinal plants , Pharmaceutical biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235673 , uj:24105
- Description: M.Tech. (Biotechnology) , Abstract: The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014 indicated that about 80% of the world’s population depend on medicinal plants for their primary health care, due to accessibility, affordability and cultural significance. However, issues such as extinction due to cultivation and lack of scientific validation of the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants through phytochemical and pharmacological screening hinder the sustainability and conversion of medicinal plants into a commodity of high value. Crinum macowanii Baker is a plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family under the genus Crinum. The species from the genus occurr world-wide in America, Africa, and southern Asia to Australia, with Africa having the most species. Crinum macowanii Baker grows in many habitats like grasslands, beside rivers and along the coast and in various types of soil. The plant has a deciduous bulb, with fleshy roots and bright green to bluish green leaves and large white lilies with dark pink stripes. The flower produces about 20 to 80 small seeds that appear as smooth, pale green to silvery and fleshy. The bulbs are 6-25 cm in diameter. The flowers have a heavy scent and are normally 4-20 cm and with pedicels up to 6.5 cm long. Traditionally, C. macowanii has been used for different applications in humans and animals since its known to possess medicinal properties. Crinum macowanii is used traditionally as a remedy for the treatment of boils, diarrhoea, fever, inflammation, respiratory system problems, skin rashes, tuberculosis, wounds and urinary tract problems. The bulbs are also used to increase lactation in women and cows. such indicates that the plant has phytochemicals which explains its continued used. The plant has shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. A number of alkaloids have been isolated from the plant which cannot all account for the biological uses of the plant and therefore this study was done to investigate the phytochemicals present in the plant and its antibacterial activity. Crinum macowanii bulbs were purchased from Faraday Muti Market in Johannesburg South Africa. The bulbs were subjected to solvent extraction and pressurized hot water extraction. The solvent extraction produced the highest yield as compared to the pressurized hot water extracts...
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A study on the effect of a homoeopathic complex formula consisting of Echinacea purpurea tincture, Echinacea angustifolia tincture, Bapstisia tinctoria tincture and Thuja occidentalis D1 on circulating leukocytes
- Authors: Davey, Karen Lee
- Date: 2014-02-05
- Subjects: Homeopathy , Echinacea purpurea tincture , Medicinal plants
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9043
- Description: M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) , The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of the homoeopathic complex formula consisting of , Echinacea angustifolia tincture, Baptisia tinctoria tincture and Thuja occidentalis D1 on circulating leukocytes. These medicinal plants have immune enhancing properties and an effect on leukocytes. Leukocytes play an important role in the body's defence system. 54 volunteers participated in a randomised double blind placebo controlled trial. An initial full blood count before treatment served as a base-line control for each volunteer. A total of 15ml of the medication placebo was administered over 3 hours. After the last dose, a further three blood samples were drawn at 90 minute intervals. Blood analysis included a differential leukocyte count. The trial was conducted over a single 6 hour period. The homoeopathic medication caused a decrease in circulating leukocytes, specifically lymphocytes. The efficacy of this medicationas an immunostimulant should be confirmed on a larger study sample.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Davey, Karen Lee
- Date: 2014-02-05
- Subjects: Homeopathy , Echinacea purpurea tincture , Medicinal plants
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3658 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9043
- Description: M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) , The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of the homoeopathic complex formula consisting of , Echinacea angustifolia tincture, Baptisia tinctoria tincture and Thuja occidentalis D1 on circulating leukocytes. These medicinal plants have immune enhancing properties and an effect on leukocytes. Leukocytes play an important role in the body's defence system. 54 volunteers participated in a randomised double blind placebo controlled trial. An initial full blood count before treatment served as a base-line control for each volunteer. A total of 15ml of the medication placebo was administered over 3 hours. After the last dose, a further three blood samples were drawn at 90 minute intervals. Blood analysis included a differential leukocyte count. The trial was conducted over a single 6 hour period. The homoeopathic medication caused a decrease in circulating leukocytes, specifically lymphocytes. The efficacy of this medicationas an immunostimulant should be confirmed on a larger study sample.
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A synopsis of medicinally important indigenous species of the genus Scabiosa (Caprifoliaceae), an evaluation of their biological activity and synergistic properties of Scabiosa columbaria
- Authors: Mugwena, Ndinne Wendy
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Caprifoliaceae , Medicinal plants , Scabiosa columbaria
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/474156 , uj:42729
- Description: Abstract: The genus Scabiosa L., so called because of its traditional use for the treatment of scabies, belongs to the family Caprifoliaceae. This genus is relatively large comprising about 80 species distributed mainly in the Mediterranean, with only nine species occurring naturally in southern Africa. In southern Africa the genus was last revised by Harvey and Sonder (1865), however, the purpose of the current study was to provide a synopsis of the medicinally important species of the genus. In addition, the study aimed to record the ethnomedicinal uses of these species and identify the plants with which Scabiosa columbaria L. is used in combination. The third aim of the study was to evaluate S. columbaria and the plant combinations for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities and then assess interactive effects. The fourth aim was to evaluate S. columbaria for its antacid and acid neutralising potential and lastly, to investigate all the plants studied here for their toxicity levels. Herbarium specimens were examined to study the morphological characteristics and the geographical distribution patterns of the medicinal species. For the antibacterial activity, the minimum inhibitory concentration assay was used. The pathogens tested were Neisseria gonorrhoeae (sexual transmitted infections), Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli (gastrointestinal pathogens) and skin pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis). The anti-inflammatory activities were investigated through inhibition of the cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes COX-1 and COX-2, as well as 15-lipoxygenase enzyme (15-LOX). Back titration of sodium hydroxide and Fordtran’s model were used to assess the antacid activities and neutralization potential of the selected plants. Lastly the brine shrimp lethality assay was used to test the toxicity of S. columbaria and plants used in combination. The results indicate that leaf morphology is of diagnostic importance in distinguishing the closely related taxa with differences observed in pubescence density, leaf shape, size and margins... , M.Sc. (Botany)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mugwena, Ndinne Wendy
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Caprifoliaceae , Medicinal plants , Scabiosa columbaria
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/474156 , uj:42729
- Description: Abstract: The genus Scabiosa L., so called because of its traditional use for the treatment of scabies, belongs to the family Caprifoliaceae. This genus is relatively large comprising about 80 species distributed mainly in the Mediterranean, with only nine species occurring naturally in southern Africa. In southern Africa the genus was last revised by Harvey and Sonder (1865), however, the purpose of the current study was to provide a synopsis of the medicinally important species of the genus. In addition, the study aimed to record the ethnomedicinal uses of these species and identify the plants with which Scabiosa columbaria L. is used in combination. The third aim of the study was to evaluate S. columbaria and the plant combinations for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities and then assess interactive effects. The fourth aim was to evaluate S. columbaria for its antacid and acid neutralising potential and lastly, to investigate all the plants studied here for their toxicity levels. Herbarium specimens were examined to study the morphological characteristics and the geographical distribution patterns of the medicinal species. For the antibacterial activity, the minimum inhibitory concentration assay was used. The pathogens tested were Neisseria gonorrhoeae (sexual transmitted infections), Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli (gastrointestinal pathogens) and skin pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis). The anti-inflammatory activities were investigated through inhibition of the cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes COX-1 and COX-2, as well as 15-lipoxygenase enzyme (15-LOX). Back titration of sodium hydroxide and Fordtran’s model were used to assess the antacid activities and neutralization potential of the selected plants. Lastly the brine shrimp lethality assay was used to test the toxicity of S. columbaria and plants used in combination. The results indicate that leaf morphology is of diagnostic importance in distinguishing the closely related taxa with differences observed in pubescence density, leaf shape, size and margins... , M.Sc. (Botany)
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Alkaloidal variation in Cissampelos capensis (Menispermaceae)
- van Wyk, Ben-Erik, De Wet, Helene, Van Heerden, Fanie R., Van Wyk, Ben-Erik
- Authors: van Wyk, Ben-Erik , De Wet, Helene , Van Heerden, Fanie R. , Van Wyk, Ben-Erik
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Menispermaceae , Cissampelos capensis , Medicinal plants , Dawidjieswortel
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5805 , ISSN 1420-3049 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7813
- Description: Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: van Wyk, Ben-Erik , De Wet, Helene , Van Heerden, Fanie R. , Van Wyk, Ben-Erik
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Menispermaceae , Cissampelos capensis , Medicinal plants , Dawidjieswortel
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5805 , ISSN 1420-3049 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7813
- Description: Please refer to full text to view abstract
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Biological and phytochemical screening of major compounds in Cephalanthus natalensis
- Authors: Ngwenya, Nomcebo Marcia
- Date: 2012-05-02
- Subjects: Biological screening , Phytochemical screening , Cephalanthus natalensis , Medicinal plants , Materia medica, Vegetable
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4673
- Description: M.Sc. , Cephalanthus natalensis of the Rubiaceae family of plants is used in traditional medical systems. Different parts of this shrubby plant are used to treat different ailments. In this study, the use of C. natalensis for medicinal purposes was investigated. Plant materials (leaves, bark and fruits) were collected from different localities in Swaziland. Extraction of phytochemicals in C. natalensis was done by maceration in four solvents of increasing polarities: hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol. Amino acids and alkaloids were also extracted in boiling water and mild acid, respectively. Phytochemical screening of compounds was done by means of TLC, HPLC and GC-MS. Previously reported TLC screening of C. natalensis indicated the presence of alkaloids. This study also confirmed the presence of alkaloids, although these were not isolated. No other chemical compounds have been reported from this plant in literature. Phenolic compounds and terpenes were extracted and detected by the chromatographic methods employed. GC-MS analysis was also used to identify and quantify amino acids in the extracts. A phytochemical assessment of compounds was done by investigating the leaves, bark and fruits of C. natalensis. A further phytochemical variation study was conducted by comparing these phytochemicals and their relative concentrations in C. natalensis plants collected from five different localities. While the same compounds were present in all the plants sampled, the concentrations of the different compounds seemed to vary irrespective of the geographic location of the plants sampled. In the different plant parts collected, some common compounds were present in the leaves, bark and fruits and other compounds varied between the different parts studied. The traditional usage of C. natalensis as fever and malaria remedy was investigated in vitro. Antibacterial and antimalarial tests of crude extracts were done. The antibacterial test on the extracts against five bacteria: Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed an average activity in all the plant parts tested. The average MIC values ranged from 0.917 mg/mL to >100 mg/mL. In the antimalarial test the extracts inhibited 50% of Plasmodium falciparum growth at concentrations ranging from 27 μg/mL to >100 μg/mL. Hexane extracts of the bark had notable antimalarial activity with the highest inhibition at the lowest concentration of 27 μg/mL. The fruits were not as active as expected since they are particularly used as malaria remedy in traditional medicine. Two compounds were also isolated from methanol extracts of C. natalensis for the first time. A volatile isoprenoid ketone, (5E,9E)-6,10,14-trimethylpentadeca-5,9,13-trien-2-one, was isolated and characterised. The structure of the second compound could not be completely characterised due to complex data obtained from the NMR experiments.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ngwenya, Nomcebo Marcia
- Date: 2012-05-02
- Subjects: Biological screening , Phytochemical screening , Cephalanthus natalensis , Medicinal plants , Materia medica, Vegetable
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4673
- Description: M.Sc. , Cephalanthus natalensis of the Rubiaceae family of plants is used in traditional medical systems. Different parts of this shrubby plant are used to treat different ailments. In this study, the use of C. natalensis for medicinal purposes was investigated. Plant materials (leaves, bark and fruits) were collected from different localities in Swaziland. Extraction of phytochemicals in C. natalensis was done by maceration in four solvents of increasing polarities: hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol. Amino acids and alkaloids were also extracted in boiling water and mild acid, respectively. Phytochemical screening of compounds was done by means of TLC, HPLC and GC-MS. Previously reported TLC screening of C. natalensis indicated the presence of alkaloids. This study also confirmed the presence of alkaloids, although these were not isolated. No other chemical compounds have been reported from this plant in literature. Phenolic compounds and terpenes were extracted and detected by the chromatographic methods employed. GC-MS analysis was also used to identify and quantify amino acids in the extracts. A phytochemical assessment of compounds was done by investigating the leaves, bark and fruits of C. natalensis. A further phytochemical variation study was conducted by comparing these phytochemicals and their relative concentrations in C. natalensis plants collected from five different localities. While the same compounds were present in all the plants sampled, the concentrations of the different compounds seemed to vary irrespective of the geographic location of the plants sampled. In the different plant parts collected, some common compounds were present in the leaves, bark and fruits and other compounds varied between the different parts studied. The traditional usage of C. natalensis as fever and malaria remedy was investigated in vitro. Antibacterial and antimalarial tests of crude extracts were done. The antibacterial test on the extracts against five bacteria: Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed an average activity in all the plant parts tested. The average MIC values ranged from 0.917 mg/mL to >100 mg/mL. In the antimalarial test the extracts inhibited 50% of Plasmodium falciparum growth at concentrations ranging from 27 μg/mL to >100 μg/mL. Hexane extracts of the bark had notable antimalarial activity with the highest inhibition at the lowest concentration of 27 μg/mL. The fruits were not as active as expected since they are particularly used as malaria remedy in traditional medicine. Two compounds were also isolated from methanol extracts of C. natalensis for the first time. A volatile isoprenoid ketone, (5E,9E)-6,10,14-trimethylpentadeca-5,9,13-trien-2-one, was isolated and characterised. The structure of the second compound could not be completely characterised due to complex data obtained from the NMR experiments.
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Determination of biological activity of Celtis africana extracts and its endophytic microflora and mycoflora
- Authors: Nchabeleng, Evonia Kanyane
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Plant metabolites , Plant biotechnology , Medicinal plants , Plant-pathogen relationships , Endophytes , Celtis africana
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235616 , uj:24098
- Description: M.Tech. (Biotechnology) , Abstract: With the rapid rise in untreatable diseases, researchers are compelled to search for new drugs that can combat these diseases. Plants are recognized as unlimited sources of bioactive compounds that can be used to treat different ailments and also be applied in various sectors including agriculture, pharmaceutical and food. In addition, plants are also known to be associated with endophytes such as bacteria and fungi, which are also regarded as fertile sources of bioactive constituents. Celtis africana is an ornamental and medicinal plant that is used to treat different ailments. In the study reported herein, the aims were to identify and characterize secondary metabolites produced by both the plant and its endophytes and to further investigate the antibacterial activity of C. africana extracts against fourteen pathogenic bacteria. To achieve these aims, endophytes were isolated from fresh and apparently healthy aerial parts (leaves, stems and fruit) of C. africana. The isolated endophytes were then cultivated and secondary metabolites extracted sequentially with hexane, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. Dried plant aerial parts were screened for the presence of phytochemicals, extracted successively with hexane, ethyl acetate and dichloromethane: methanol (1:1 v/v) and the crude extracts tested for antibacterial activity. The crude extracts of both the plant parts and endophytes were analyzed using two dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time of flight mass spectrometry(GC×GC-TOF/MS ) to determine their volatile secondary metabolites constituents. From the results obtained, it is evident that C. africana has endophytic bacteria and fungi in the stem and fruit, but not in the leaves. Seven bacteria (Kocuria sp., Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus hominis, Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Brachybacterium conglomeratum and Arthrobacter sp) were isolated and identified. Four fungal endophytes, all belonging to the same genus (Aspergillus) were also isolated and identified, of which two were identified to genus level and two were found to be A. niger and A. flavus. The plant crude extracts showed antibacterial activity against seven of the test microorganisms, viz., Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter aerogenes. These microorganisms are causal agents of various ailments ranging from food-borne illnesses to skin infections, urinary tract infections and pneumonia....
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nchabeleng, Evonia Kanyane
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Plant metabolites , Plant biotechnology , Medicinal plants , Plant-pathogen relationships , Endophytes , Celtis africana
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235616 , uj:24098
- Description: M.Tech. (Biotechnology) , Abstract: With the rapid rise in untreatable diseases, researchers are compelled to search for new drugs that can combat these diseases. Plants are recognized as unlimited sources of bioactive compounds that can be used to treat different ailments and also be applied in various sectors including agriculture, pharmaceutical and food. In addition, plants are also known to be associated with endophytes such as bacteria and fungi, which are also regarded as fertile sources of bioactive constituents. Celtis africana is an ornamental and medicinal plant that is used to treat different ailments. In the study reported herein, the aims were to identify and characterize secondary metabolites produced by both the plant and its endophytes and to further investigate the antibacterial activity of C. africana extracts against fourteen pathogenic bacteria. To achieve these aims, endophytes were isolated from fresh and apparently healthy aerial parts (leaves, stems and fruit) of C. africana. The isolated endophytes were then cultivated and secondary metabolites extracted sequentially with hexane, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. Dried plant aerial parts were screened for the presence of phytochemicals, extracted successively with hexane, ethyl acetate and dichloromethane: methanol (1:1 v/v) and the crude extracts tested for antibacterial activity. The crude extracts of both the plant parts and endophytes were analyzed using two dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time of flight mass spectrometry(GC×GC-TOF/MS ) to determine their volatile secondary metabolites constituents. From the results obtained, it is evident that C. africana has endophytic bacteria and fungi in the stem and fruit, but not in the leaves. Seven bacteria (Kocuria sp., Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus hominis, Bacillus sp., Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Brachybacterium conglomeratum and Arthrobacter sp) were isolated and identified. Four fungal endophytes, all belonging to the same genus (Aspergillus) were also isolated and identified, of which two were identified to genus level and two were found to be A. niger and A. flavus. The plant crude extracts showed antibacterial activity against seven of the test microorganisms, viz., Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter aerogenes. These microorganisms are causal agents of various ailments ranging from food-borne illnesses to skin infections, urinary tract infections and pneumonia....
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Doing an ethnobotanical survey in the life sciences classroom
- De Beer, Josef, Van Wyk, Ben-Erik
- Authors: De Beer, Josef , Van Wyk, Ben-Erik
- Date: 2011-02
- Subjects: Ethnobotanical surveys , Indigenous knowledge , Intellectual property rights , Medicinal plants , Life sciences teaching , Nature of sciences
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5733 , ISSN 1938–4211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6357
- Description: On the basis of an ethnobotanical survey that we conducted on plant use by descendents of the Khoi-San people in the Northern Cape Province in South Africa, we introduce biology teachers to an adapted rapid-appraisal methodology that can be followed in the life sciences classroom. Such a project addresses a number of the content standards in the National Science Education Standards, such as science as a human endeavour, the nature of science, and the history of science. We also shed light on ethical considerations when engaging in an ethnobotanical survey, and address, among other issues, intellectual property rights. Examples are provided of how teachers in the United States can sensitize students to the rich ethnobotanical heritage of their country.
- Full Text:
- Authors: De Beer, Josef , Van Wyk, Ben-Erik
- Date: 2011-02
- Subjects: Ethnobotanical surveys , Indigenous knowledge , Intellectual property rights , Medicinal plants , Life sciences teaching , Nature of sciences
- Type: Article
- Identifier: uj:5733 , ISSN 1938–4211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6357
- Description: On the basis of an ethnobotanical survey that we conducted on plant use by descendents of the Khoi-San people in the Northern Cape Province in South Africa, we introduce biology teachers to an adapted rapid-appraisal methodology that can be followed in the life sciences classroom. Such a project addresses a number of the content standards in the National Science Education Standards, such as science as a human endeavour, the nature of science, and the history of science. We also shed light on ethical considerations when engaging in an ethnobotanical survey, and address, among other issues, intellectual property rights. Examples are provided of how teachers in the United States can sensitize students to the rich ethnobotanical heritage of their country.
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Elephantorrhiza elephantina and Pentanisia prunelloides : antimicrobial activities and synergy
- Authors: Mpofu, Smart Johannes
- Date: 2014-07-15
- Subjects: Legumes - Therapeutic use , Rubiaceae - Therapeutic use , Medicinal plants
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11686 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11409
- Description: Ph.D. (Chemistry) , The following study was conducted to explore the in vitro antimicrobial and synergistic properties of the two medicinal plants (Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Fabaceae and Pentanisia prunelloides, Rubiaceae), which are widely used in southern Africa. These two plant species are used to remedy various ailments including diarrhoea, dysentery, inflammation, fever, rheumatism, heartburn, tuberculosis, haemorrhoids, skin diseases, perforated peptic ulcers and sore joints. The cytotoxicity of the aqueous and methanol extracts and fractions of both species was studied using the brine shrimp lethality tests for the first time. The results demonstrated that the lethality (LC₅₀) for crude extracts for both plants ranged between 1.8 and 18 μg/mL which was relatively greater than the fractions of the extracts. This suggested that crude extracts were more potent than their respective fractions which further implied that the different fractions of phytochemicals in these plant species work jointly (In synergy) to exert their therapeutic efficacy. The antimicrobial activity of methanol and aqueous extracts of rhizomes was investigated by means of a checkerboard micro-dilution technique in a bid to validate possible synergistic interactions between the two plants...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mpofu, Smart Johannes
- Date: 2014-07-15
- Subjects: Legumes - Therapeutic use , Rubiaceae - Therapeutic use , Medicinal plants
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11686 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11409
- Description: Ph.D. (Chemistry) , The following study was conducted to explore the in vitro antimicrobial and synergistic properties of the two medicinal plants (Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Fabaceae and Pentanisia prunelloides, Rubiaceae), which are widely used in southern Africa. These two plant species are used to remedy various ailments including diarrhoea, dysentery, inflammation, fever, rheumatism, heartburn, tuberculosis, haemorrhoids, skin diseases, perforated peptic ulcers and sore joints. The cytotoxicity of the aqueous and methanol extracts and fractions of both species was studied using the brine shrimp lethality tests for the first time. The results demonstrated that the lethality (LC₅₀) for crude extracts for both plants ranged between 1.8 and 18 μg/mL which was relatively greater than the fractions of the extracts. This suggested that crude extracts were more potent than their respective fractions which further implied that the different fractions of phytochemicals in these plant species work jointly (In synergy) to exert their therapeutic efficacy. The antimicrobial activity of methanol and aqueous extracts of rhizomes was investigated by means of a checkerboard micro-dilution technique in a bid to validate possible synergistic interactions between the two plants...
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Evaluating the anticancer and antimicrobial properties of extracts from Hypoxis hemerocallidea (African potato)
- Authors: Sikhakhane, Xolani
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Hypoxis hemerocallidea - Therapeutic use , Medicinal plants , Botanical chemistry , Anti-infective agents , Diseases - Diet therapy , African potato
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11393
- Description: M.Sc. (Biochemistry) , A rich diversity of medicinal plants is found in Southern Africa and approximately 80% of the population still relies on medicinal plants to fulfil its primary health care needs. Many of these medicinal plants are used to treat ailments such as burns, sores, urinary tract infections, colds, flu, rheumatism, gout, cancer, hypertension, diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus infections and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. An example of such a plant is Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Fisch & CA Mey), formerly known as Hypoxis rooperi and popularly known as the African potato, from the Hypoxidaceae family. This plant is found across five of the South African provinces and corm extracts are reported to contain bioactive compounds that account for the plant’s medicinal and therapeutic properties. This study was conducted to investigate the anti-oesophageal cancer and antimicrobial potential of H. hemerocallidea. In cancer patients, the currently used cancer treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy are ineffective in decreasing disease progression, prolonging survival, providing cure and are associated with side-effects such as cytotoxicity to normal body cells and tumour non-specificity. Therefore, current cancer research is aiming at searching for novel plant-based anticancer compounds that can be used for the development and manufacturing of cancer treatment drugs that will have less side-effects and less toxicity towards the normal human body cells, and ultimately provide cure for cancer. In addition to cancer, infectious diseases still contribute to most premature deaths worldwide and are now becoming more difficult to treat due to multidrug resistance developed by pathogens against many of the currently used antibiotics. This multidrug resistance of human pathogens to antibiotics has led to a search for new antimicrobial compounds from plants sources, for use in the production of new affordable antibiotic drugs to effectively treat infections without posing any unwanted toxicity and harm towards the human body. An oesophageal SNO cancer cell line was treated with H. hemerocallidea extracts and the effect of the extracts on the cancer cells were investigated with cell viability assays (trypan blue dye exclusion and AlamarBlue® viability assays), light microscopy and flow cytometrical analysis (forward and side scatter analysis). The plant extracts were also tested for antimicrobial activities against various microorganisms - Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeast and fungi cultures by means of thin layer chromatographic bioautography (TLC-DB), microdilution assays and the BacTiter-GloTM assay. Antimicrobial compounds were then putatively identified and characterised using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). No morphological changes were observed in the SNO cells and significant cell death did not occur following treatment with either water or ethanolic H. hemerocallidea extracts from fresh or dried corms or leaves. The ethanolic leaf extracts did not show any significant inhibition against any of the microorganisms tested in contrast to the ethanolic extracts from the corms, which showed microbial growth inhibition against Gram-positive bacteria and fungi and partial inhibition of the Gram-negative bacteria. The bioactive compounds responsible for the antibacterial and antifungal activities were identified as levoglucosan (as the major antimicrobial compound), pyrocatechol and hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl)-pyrrolo[1,2-α]pyrazine-1,4-dione. These results show that H. hemerocallidea plant extracts possessed no anticancer effects towards the SNO cell line. In addition, the corm extracts of H. hemerocallidea contain a levoglucosan compound, which may work synergistically with other antimicrobial compounds to exert antimicrobial properties. With more research, the antimicrobial compounds in H. hemerocallidea may hold promise for possible candidates for use in the development of antibiotic or antiseptic products (for example, topical creams and lozenges) to be used in the treatment of skin and soft tissue infections caused by bacterial and fungal infections.
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- Authors: Sikhakhane, Xolani
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Hypoxis hemerocallidea - Therapeutic use , Medicinal plants , Botanical chemistry , Anti-infective agents , Diseases - Diet therapy , African potato
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11393
- Description: M.Sc. (Biochemistry) , A rich diversity of medicinal plants is found in Southern Africa and approximately 80% of the population still relies on medicinal plants to fulfil its primary health care needs. Many of these medicinal plants are used to treat ailments such as burns, sores, urinary tract infections, colds, flu, rheumatism, gout, cancer, hypertension, diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus infections and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. An example of such a plant is Hypoxis hemerocallidea (Fisch & CA Mey), formerly known as Hypoxis rooperi and popularly known as the African potato, from the Hypoxidaceae family. This plant is found across five of the South African provinces and corm extracts are reported to contain bioactive compounds that account for the plant’s medicinal and therapeutic properties. This study was conducted to investigate the anti-oesophageal cancer and antimicrobial potential of H. hemerocallidea. In cancer patients, the currently used cancer treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy are ineffective in decreasing disease progression, prolonging survival, providing cure and are associated with side-effects such as cytotoxicity to normal body cells and tumour non-specificity. Therefore, current cancer research is aiming at searching for novel plant-based anticancer compounds that can be used for the development and manufacturing of cancer treatment drugs that will have less side-effects and less toxicity towards the normal human body cells, and ultimately provide cure for cancer. In addition to cancer, infectious diseases still contribute to most premature deaths worldwide and are now becoming more difficult to treat due to multidrug resistance developed by pathogens against many of the currently used antibiotics. This multidrug resistance of human pathogens to antibiotics has led to a search for new antimicrobial compounds from plants sources, for use in the production of new affordable antibiotic drugs to effectively treat infections without posing any unwanted toxicity and harm towards the human body. An oesophageal SNO cancer cell line was treated with H. hemerocallidea extracts and the effect of the extracts on the cancer cells were investigated with cell viability assays (trypan blue dye exclusion and AlamarBlue® viability assays), light microscopy and flow cytometrical analysis (forward and side scatter analysis). The plant extracts were also tested for antimicrobial activities against various microorganisms - Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeast and fungi cultures by means of thin layer chromatographic bioautography (TLC-DB), microdilution assays and the BacTiter-GloTM assay. Antimicrobial compounds were then putatively identified and characterised using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). No morphological changes were observed in the SNO cells and significant cell death did not occur following treatment with either water or ethanolic H. hemerocallidea extracts from fresh or dried corms or leaves. The ethanolic leaf extracts did not show any significant inhibition against any of the microorganisms tested in contrast to the ethanolic extracts from the corms, which showed microbial growth inhibition against Gram-positive bacteria and fungi and partial inhibition of the Gram-negative bacteria. The bioactive compounds responsible for the antibacterial and antifungal activities were identified as levoglucosan (as the major antimicrobial compound), pyrocatechol and hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl)-pyrrolo[1,2-α]pyrazine-1,4-dione. These results show that H. hemerocallidea plant extracts possessed no anticancer effects towards the SNO cell line. In addition, the corm extracts of H. hemerocallidea contain a levoglucosan compound, which may work synergistically with other antimicrobial compounds to exert antimicrobial properties. With more research, the antimicrobial compounds in H. hemerocallidea may hold promise for possible candidates for use in the development of antibiotic or antiseptic products (for example, topical creams and lozenges) to be used in the treatment of skin and soft tissue infections caused by bacterial and fungal infections.
- Full Text:
Evaluation of biologically active compounds in Coleonema album
- Authors: Liebenberg, Lindy
- Date: 2008-06-12T05:35:03Z
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Rutaceae , Therapeutic use of Rutaceae , Botanical chemistry , Plant bioactive compounds , Anti-infective agents
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2633 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/607
- Description: The undeniable efficacy of medicinal plants and wide range of biological activities attributed to plant secondary metabolites are an indication that plants can serve as an excellent pool of bioactive compounds with useful therapeutic properties. The South African flora is recognised as one of the richest centres of plant diversity in the world. From this enormous biodiversity a large number of species has the potential to yield pharmacologically active compounds. C. album is an indigenous plant belonging to the Cape fynbos biome with potentially useful bioactivities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioactivity of C. album by screening plant extracts for antibacterial, anti-mycobacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-HIV activity. For rapid and effective screening for the presence of bioactive compounds, a bioassay-guided fractionation methodology was followed. Extracts from plant material obtained from two different geographic regions, the Cape and Highveld, were prepared by liquid extraction in a ratio of 150g fresh plant material per litre solvent, either acetone or ethanol. Qualitative analysis of the crude extracts by TLC and RP-HPLC documented the multi-component plant constituents as a fingerprint, revealing a highly complex, but similar profile of extracted components in both plant groups. Preliminary identification and structural information of the bioactive components present in the active C. album extracts was obtained by a combination of preparative TLC and LC/MS. The development of resistance to all available classes of antibiotic agents, their decreased effectiveness and the re-emergence of previously uncommon infections has necessitated the search for antimicrobial substances with novel antimicrobial mechanisms. The antimicrobial activity, including the antibacterial (Gram-positive and Gram-negative), anti-mycobacterial and antifungal activity of the crude extracts were evaluated. The TLC-bioautographic method used to screen the plant extracts for antimicrobial activity, as well as the localisation of compounds with antibacterial and antifungal activity, indicated the presence of a number of inhibitory compounds with activity against all the microorganisms tested. Evaluation of the inhibitory strength of each extract by the serial microdilution assay indicated that the C. album extracts effectively inhibited all the microorganisms, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations in the low mg/ml range. The significant antimicrobial activity exhibited against all the microorganisms, especially against the Gram-negative bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Candida albicans, could suggest the potential use of the extracts or their active constituents as therapeutic agents for the treatment of infectious diseases. The need for natural antioxidants in the health care sector and food industry, due to the role that free radicals play in the pathology of a variety of human diseases and radical-induced deterioration of food products, supported the evaluation of the free radical scavenging activity of C. album extracts against relevant free radical species. The antioxidant activity of the extracts measured using the TLC-DPPH method, revealed the presence of a number of compounds with antioxidant activity. Quantification of the radical scavenging activity by the DPPHspectrophotometric assay revealed that the acetone extracts had a higher radical scavenging activity compared to the ethanol extracts, a pattern that was also found with the fluorescencemicroplate based oxygen radical absorbance assay (ORAC), specific for peroxyl radicals. The observed antioxidant activity were correlated with the total polyphenol content of the crude extracts, determined by the Folin-Ciocalteau procedure, but not with the reducing capacity evaluated by a Fe3 + - Fe2 + reduction method. HIV/AIDS has gained significant interest due to the high mortality rate and the rapid spread of the disease. The appearance of HIV strains resistant to certain antiretroviral drugs, in addition to the high cost, severe metabolic side effects and therapeutic failure of currently available antiretroviral agents, served as motivation for evaluation of C. album for anti-HIV properties and to evaluate potential cytotoxicity of plant extracts in mammalian cell cultures. The effects of the crude extracts on the in vitro HIV-1 subtype C (the predominant HIV-1 form in South Africa) replication and cytopathic effect on CEMnkrCCR5 lymphoid cells were determined. Viability assays using tetrazolium salts and viability dyes allowed the assessment of the host cell responses in the cytotoxicity and anti-HIV screening. Assays were performed at the maximum non-toxic concentration of 50 μg/ml. Some of the plant extracts exhibited significant reduction of the virusinduced cytopathic effect and induced a significant increase in cellular viability. The effect of the extracts on HIV activity was also investigated by determining the viral p24 core protein level, an indication of the replication fitness of the virus; and a significant decrease in p24 antigen level, was found. An attempt to clarify the main active compounds and the structural elements conferring the bioactivity in the analysed systems, revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, primarily coumarins and flavonoids, which are thought to be responsible for the observed antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The results of this study indicate that C. album possess strong bioactivity that warrants further investigation. , Prof. I.A. Dubery Dr. D. Meyer
- Full Text:
- Authors: Liebenberg, Lindy
- Date: 2008-06-12T05:35:03Z
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Rutaceae , Therapeutic use of Rutaceae , Botanical chemistry , Plant bioactive compounds , Anti-infective agents
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2633 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/607
- Description: The undeniable efficacy of medicinal plants and wide range of biological activities attributed to plant secondary metabolites are an indication that plants can serve as an excellent pool of bioactive compounds with useful therapeutic properties. The South African flora is recognised as one of the richest centres of plant diversity in the world. From this enormous biodiversity a large number of species has the potential to yield pharmacologically active compounds. C. album is an indigenous plant belonging to the Cape fynbos biome with potentially useful bioactivities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioactivity of C. album by screening plant extracts for antibacterial, anti-mycobacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-HIV activity. For rapid and effective screening for the presence of bioactive compounds, a bioassay-guided fractionation methodology was followed. Extracts from plant material obtained from two different geographic regions, the Cape and Highveld, were prepared by liquid extraction in a ratio of 150g fresh plant material per litre solvent, either acetone or ethanol. Qualitative analysis of the crude extracts by TLC and RP-HPLC documented the multi-component plant constituents as a fingerprint, revealing a highly complex, but similar profile of extracted components in both plant groups. Preliminary identification and structural information of the bioactive components present in the active C. album extracts was obtained by a combination of preparative TLC and LC/MS. The development of resistance to all available classes of antibiotic agents, their decreased effectiveness and the re-emergence of previously uncommon infections has necessitated the search for antimicrobial substances with novel antimicrobial mechanisms. The antimicrobial activity, including the antibacterial (Gram-positive and Gram-negative), anti-mycobacterial and antifungal activity of the crude extracts were evaluated. The TLC-bioautographic method used to screen the plant extracts for antimicrobial activity, as well as the localisation of compounds with antibacterial and antifungal activity, indicated the presence of a number of inhibitory compounds with activity against all the microorganisms tested. Evaluation of the inhibitory strength of each extract by the serial microdilution assay indicated that the C. album extracts effectively inhibited all the microorganisms, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations in the low mg/ml range. The significant antimicrobial activity exhibited against all the microorganisms, especially against the Gram-negative bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Candida albicans, could suggest the potential use of the extracts or their active constituents as therapeutic agents for the treatment of infectious diseases. The need for natural antioxidants in the health care sector and food industry, due to the role that free radicals play in the pathology of a variety of human diseases and radical-induced deterioration of food products, supported the evaluation of the free radical scavenging activity of C. album extracts against relevant free radical species. The antioxidant activity of the extracts measured using the TLC-DPPH method, revealed the presence of a number of compounds with antioxidant activity. Quantification of the radical scavenging activity by the DPPHspectrophotometric assay revealed that the acetone extracts had a higher radical scavenging activity compared to the ethanol extracts, a pattern that was also found with the fluorescencemicroplate based oxygen radical absorbance assay (ORAC), specific for peroxyl radicals. The observed antioxidant activity were correlated with the total polyphenol content of the crude extracts, determined by the Folin-Ciocalteau procedure, but not with the reducing capacity evaluated by a Fe3 + - Fe2 + reduction method. HIV/AIDS has gained significant interest due to the high mortality rate and the rapid spread of the disease. The appearance of HIV strains resistant to certain antiretroviral drugs, in addition to the high cost, severe metabolic side effects and therapeutic failure of currently available antiretroviral agents, served as motivation for evaluation of C. album for anti-HIV properties and to evaluate potential cytotoxicity of plant extracts in mammalian cell cultures. The effects of the crude extracts on the in vitro HIV-1 subtype C (the predominant HIV-1 form in South Africa) replication and cytopathic effect on CEMnkrCCR5 lymphoid cells were determined. Viability assays using tetrazolium salts and viability dyes allowed the assessment of the host cell responses in the cytotoxicity and anti-HIV screening. Assays were performed at the maximum non-toxic concentration of 50 μg/ml. Some of the plant extracts exhibited significant reduction of the virusinduced cytopathic effect and induced a significant increase in cellular viability. The effect of the extracts on HIV activity was also investigated by determining the viral p24 core protein level, an indication of the replication fitness of the virus; and a significant decrease in p24 antigen level, was found. An attempt to clarify the main active compounds and the structural elements conferring the bioactivity in the analysed systems, revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, primarily coumarins and flavonoids, which are thought to be responsible for the observed antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The results of this study indicate that C. album possess strong bioactivity that warrants further investigation. , Prof. I.A. Dubery Dr. D. Meyer
- Full Text:
Homeopathic practitioners’ experiences regarding their use of Bach flower remedies in practice
- Authors: Dos Santos, Cecilia Gorete
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Homeopathy , Flowers - Therapeutic use , Homeopathy - Materia medica and therapeutics , Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285713 , uj:30903
- Description: M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) , Abstract: Bach flower remedies are a set of 38 individual remedies developed by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930’s. These remedies are categorized as complementary medicines, and focus mainly on the restoration of mental and emotional balance. While these remedies are available to the public at selected health shops, they are frequently prescribed by homeopathic practitioners. Research studies done on the effects of Bach flower remedies are limited and have shown conflicting results. The extent of the use amongst homeopaths as well as their experiences leading to their use has not yet been explored. The investigation into Bach flower remedies from a homeopathic perspective is of use to homeopathic practitioners, educators and researchers. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the experiences of homeopathic practitioners in the Gauteng area who are making use of Bach flower remedies by means of individual interviews with information rich participants. This qualitative phenomenological study serves to provide insight into the experiences of homeopathic practitioners who make use of Bach flower remedies in the context of professional homeopathic practice in South Africa. Registered homeopathic practitioners in the Gauteng area with experience in using Bach flower remedies were recruited for the study by means of snowball sampling and contacted via telephone or email and provided with information about the study. Practitioners who were willing to take part had to meet the inclusion criteria as well as consent to both participation and the audio recording of their interview before commencing. The audio recordings allow for data to be accurately captured and transcribed, followed by an analysis for any trends and themes. There were fourteen practitioners who participated in this study. Interviews were steered by one central question, “Describe your experiences using Bach flower remedies in homeopathic practice”. Data was coded using three coding methods, as described by Johnny Saldaña (2013). These were grammatical methods, elemental methods and affective methods. Five themes emerged, these being: value in practice, remedy application in practice, practitioner perceptions, education and Bach flower remedies outside of homeopathic practice. This study explored the practitioners’ experiences and found that in general, practitioners have had positive experiences with Bach flower remedies. Participants acknowledged the safety and value that these remedies have in practice and perceive them to be a useful adjunct to their treatment...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dos Santos, Cecilia Gorete
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Homeopathy , Flowers - Therapeutic use , Homeopathy - Materia medica and therapeutics , Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285713 , uj:30903
- Description: M.Tech. (Homoeopathy) , Abstract: Bach flower remedies are a set of 38 individual remedies developed by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930’s. These remedies are categorized as complementary medicines, and focus mainly on the restoration of mental and emotional balance. While these remedies are available to the public at selected health shops, they are frequently prescribed by homeopathic practitioners. Research studies done on the effects of Bach flower remedies are limited and have shown conflicting results. The extent of the use amongst homeopaths as well as their experiences leading to their use has not yet been explored. The investigation into Bach flower remedies from a homeopathic perspective is of use to homeopathic practitioners, educators and researchers. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the experiences of homeopathic practitioners in the Gauteng area who are making use of Bach flower remedies by means of individual interviews with information rich participants. This qualitative phenomenological study serves to provide insight into the experiences of homeopathic practitioners who make use of Bach flower remedies in the context of professional homeopathic practice in South Africa. Registered homeopathic practitioners in the Gauteng area with experience in using Bach flower remedies were recruited for the study by means of snowball sampling and contacted via telephone or email and provided with information about the study. Practitioners who were willing to take part had to meet the inclusion criteria as well as consent to both participation and the audio recording of their interview before commencing. The audio recordings allow for data to be accurately captured and transcribed, followed by an analysis for any trends and themes. There were fourteen practitioners who participated in this study. Interviews were steered by one central question, “Describe your experiences using Bach flower remedies in homeopathic practice”. Data was coded using three coding methods, as described by Johnny Saldaña (2013). These were grammatical methods, elemental methods and affective methods. Five themes emerged, these being: value in practice, remedy application in practice, practitioner perceptions, education and Bach flower remedies outside of homeopathic practice. This study explored the practitioners’ experiences and found that in general, practitioners have had positive experiences with Bach flower remedies. Participants acknowledged the safety and value that these remedies have in practice and perceive them to be a useful adjunct to their treatment...
- Full Text:
Isolation and characterization of bio-active compounds from Lippia javanica
- Authors: Dlamini, Thobile Prudence
- Date: 2008-05-23T13:56:37Z
- Subjects: Plants biotechnology , Medicinal plants , Lippia javanica
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2191 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/457
- Description: Lippia javanica is an erect, small woody shrub that grows up to two metres in height, popularly known as “fever tea” or “koorsbossie”. It is distributed throughout southern Africa covering almost the entire country of Swaziland and large parts of South Africa. Its uses range from that of caffeine free tea with fever and pain-relieving activities to treatment of microbial infections such as coughs, colds and other bronchial ailments as well as the basic symptoms of HIV and AIDS. Topical uses also include disinfection and treatment of skin disorders such as dermatitis and dry skin, and even for the treatment of lice and scabies. Furthermore, it is used in combination with Artemisia afra as a remedy against malaria and as a prophylactic against dysentery and diarrhoea. In view of the traditional medicinal importance of L. javanica, it was surprising that not much is known on the polar fraction of this plant. This work was done to explore the presence of the polar compounds of L. javanica which may contribute to the plants’ medicinal properties. The chemical screening was conducted using both the non-polar and polar extracts of the aerial parts of L. javanica collected from various localities in South Africa and Swaziland. The screening involved extraction of the aerial parts of the plant in solvents of different polarities after which TLC showed the presence of essential oils, phenolic glycosides, amino acids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids and other phenolic compounds which may include flavonoids. The chemical variation was further investigated by means of chromatographic techniques such as HPLC and GC/MS. The essential oils of L. javanica demonstrated a dramatic variation both in quality and in quantity within and between natural plant populations. The variation was found to be random and it was not correlated to the geographical distribution of this plant. The polar extracts also showed variation in the chemical compounds, v with clear differences observed between Swaziland and South African populations. Even among the amino acids a considerable variation was observed on a geographical level. Although only the aerial parts of the plants were used in each case, the observed variation could be due to the different developmental stages of the plants and the different harvesting times. We have also established that there are different compounds present in L. rehmannii (toxic Lippia species) and L. javanica which are similar to each other in appearance and they grow in the same regions and similar environments. The results demonstrated the importance of performing chemical variation studies before using these plants and for quality control purposes for marketed products. The extracts of L. javanica were subjected to the isolation of compounds and structural elucidation. Two phenylethanoid glycosides, verbascoside β-[(3,4- dihydroxyphenyl)-ethyl]-(3′-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-(4′-O-caffeoyl)-β-Dglucopyranoside and isoverbascoside β-[(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-ethyl]-(3′-O-α-Lrhamnopyranosyl)-( 6′-O-caffeoyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside, previously unknown in L. javanica were isolated. The structures were established by extensive spectroscopic investigation (IR, UV, FAB-MS, 1D- and 2D-NMR). The discovery of these compounds gave the most important new insight in this study and they are known to possess antioxidant activities1. This activity is still to be investigated in L. javanica. , Mrs. D. K. Olivier Dr. R. W. M. Krause
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dlamini, Thobile Prudence
- Date: 2008-05-23T13:56:37Z
- Subjects: Plants biotechnology , Medicinal plants , Lippia javanica
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2191 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/457
- Description: Lippia javanica is an erect, small woody shrub that grows up to two metres in height, popularly known as “fever tea” or “koorsbossie”. It is distributed throughout southern Africa covering almost the entire country of Swaziland and large parts of South Africa. Its uses range from that of caffeine free tea with fever and pain-relieving activities to treatment of microbial infections such as coughs, colds and other bronchial ailments as well as the basic symptoms of HIV and AIDS. Topical uses also include disinfection and treatment of skin disorders such as dermatitis and dry skin, and even for the treatment of lice and scabies. Furthermore, it is used in combination with Artemisia afra as a remedy against malaria and as a prophylactic against dysentery and diarrhoea. In view of the traditional medicinal importance of L. javanica, it was surprising that not much is known on the polar fraction of this plant. This work was done to explore the presence of the polar compounds of L. javanica which may contribute to the plants’ medicinal properties. The chemical screening was conducted using both the non-polar and polar extracts of the aerial parts of L. javanica collected from various localities in South Africa and Swaziland. The screening involved extraction of the aerial parts of the plant in solvents of different polarities after which TLC showed the presence of essential oils, phenolic glycosides, amino acids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids and other phenolic compounds which may include flavonoids. The chemical variation was further investigated by means of chromatographic techniques such as HPLC and GC/MS. The essential oils of L. javanica demonstrated a dramatic variation both in quality and in quantity within and between natural plant populations. The variation was found to be random and it was not correlated to the geographical distribution of this plant. The polar extracts also showed variation in the chemical compounds, v with clear differences observed between Swaziland and South African populations. Even among the amino acids a considerable variation was observed on a geographical level. Although only the aerial parts of the plants were used in each case, the observed variation could be due to the different developmental stages of the plants and the different harvesting times. We have also established that there are different compounds present in L. rehmannii (toxic Lippia species) and L. javanica which are similar to each other in appearance and they grow in the same regions and similar environments. The results demonstrated the importance of performing chemical variation studies before using these plants and for quality control purposes for marketed products. The extracts of L. javanica were subjected to the isolation of compounds and structural elucidation. Two phenylethanoid glycosides, verbascoside β-[(3,4- dihydroxyphenyl)-ethyl]-(3′-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-(4′-O-caffeoyl)-β-Dglucopyranoside and isoverbascoside β-[(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-ethyl]-(3′-O-α-Lrhamnopyranosyl)-( 6′-O-caffeoyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside, previously unknown in L. javanica were isolated. The structures were established by extensive spectroscopic investigation (IR, UV, FAB-MS, 1D- and 2D-NMR). The discovery of these compounds gave the most important new insight in this study and they are known to possess antioxidant activities1. This activity is still to be investigated in L. javanica. , Mrs. D. K. Olivier Dr. R. W. M. Krause
- Full Text:
Isolation, characterisation and biological activity of some compounds from rapanea melanophloeos (L.) Mez.
- Authors: Lukhele, Thabile
- Date: 2012-08-20
- Subjects: Myrsinaceae , Materia medica, Vegetable , Medicinal plants , Chromatographic analysis , Bioactive compounds
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/377234 , uj:2815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6252
- Description: M.Sc. , The continued use and popularity of plant based traditional medicine necessitates scientific validation of the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants through phytochemical and pharmacological screening as well as the isolation and identification of bioactive compounds. Since the pharmacological effectiveness of medicinal plants is affected by several intrinsic and extrinsic factors, studies on the variations on chemical composition and biological activity are important as well. These provide a scientific rationale for using plants from different regions for the same medicinal purposes and allow traditional healers and consumers to make informed decisions with regard to the collection and use. Rapanea melanophloeos is a popular medicinal plant from the Myrsinaceae family widely distributed in southern Africa. It‟s bark, fruits and rarely the leaves are used traditionally for ailments ranging from stomach disorders, respiratory problems to disorders of the nervous system. Available chemical information reports on the accumulation of benzoquinones as major compounds, as well as some triterpenoid saponins and tannins. In view of the plant‟s wide distribution and medicinal use of different plant parts, this study comparatively evaluated the chemical composition of various crude extracts of the leaves, fruits and bark of plants collected from six localities. This was coupled with antibacterial tests to evaluate the therapeutic potential of different solvent extracts of the leaves, fruits and bark as well as the isolation of bioactive compounds from the fruits. Plants were collected from six different localities between Swaziland and South Africa and sequentially extracted with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol and water as a series of increasingly polar solvents. Thin layer chromatography (TLC), Gas-Chromatography/Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were used to obtain a semi-quantitative chemical composition profile of different extracts. The TLC fingerprints of petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed the accumulation of non-polar terpenes, benzoquinones, saponins, tannins and flavonoids in the three plant parts. Slight variations in the chemical composition of the leaves, bark, and fruits were noted. Some components occurred in specific plant parts and others occurred in all three plants. The chemical profile of the leaves and bark were quite comparable in most instances with the fruits showing a generally different profile. This confirms previous literature reports on the comparability of leaves and the bark accounting for interchangeable use in traditional medicine.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lukhele, Thabile
- Date: 2012-08-20
- Subjects: Myrsinaceae , Materia medica, Vegetable , Medicinal plants , Chromatographic analysis , Bioactive compounds
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/377234 , uj:2815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6252
- Description: M.Sc. , The continued use and popularity of plant based traditional medicine necessitates scientific validation of the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants through phytochemical and pharmacological screening as well as the isolation and identification of bioactive compounds. Since the pharmacological effectiveness of medicinal plants is affected by several intrinsic and extrinsic factors, studies on the variations on chemical composition and biological activity are important as well. These provide a scientific rationale for using plants from different regions for the same medicinal purposes and allow traditional healers and consumers to make informed decisions with regard to the collection and use. Rapanea melanophloeos is a popular medicinal plant from the Myrsinaceae family widely distributed in southern Africa. It‟s bark, fruits and rarely the leaves are used traditionally for ailments ranging from stomach disorders, respiratory problems to disorders of the nervous system. Available chemical information reports on the accumulation of benzoquinones as major compounds, as well as some triterpenoid saponins and tannins. In view of the plant‟s wide distribution and medicinal use of different plant parts, this study comparatively evaluated the chemical composition of various crude extracts of the leaves, fruits and bark of plants collected from six localities. This was coupled with antibacterial tests to evaluate the therapeutic potential of different solvent extracts of the leaves, fruits and bark as well as the isolation of bioactive compounds from the fruits. Plants were collected from six different localities between Swaziland and South Africa and sequentially extracted with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol and water as a series of increasingly polar solvents. Thin layer chromatography (TLC), Gas-Chromatography/Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were used to obtain a semi-quantitative chemical composition profile of different extracts. The TLC fingerprints of petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed the accumulation of non-polar terpenes, benzoquinones, saponins, tannins and flavonoids in the three plant parts. Slight variations in the chemical composition of the leaves, bark, and fruits were noted. Some components occurred in specific plant parts and others occurred in all three plants. The chemical profile of the leaves and bark were quite comparable in most instances with the fruits showing a generally different profile. This confirms previous literature reports on the comparability of leaves and the bark accounting for interchangeable use in traditional medicine.
- Full Text:
Manipulation of secondary metabolite synthesis in Centella asiatica cells : a metabolomics study
- Authors: Ncube, Efficient Nsikayezwe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Plant metabolites , Metabolites - Analysis , Medicinal plants , High performance liquid chromatography
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/124705 , uj:20949
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Sc. (Biochemistry)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ncube, Efficient Nsikayezwe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Plant metabolites , Metabolites - Analysis , Medicinal plants , High performance liquid chromatography
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/124705 , uj:20949
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Sc. (Biochemistry)
- Full Text:
Medicinal ethnobotany of the Kamiesberg, Namaqualand, Northern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nortje, Janneke Margaretha
- Date: 2011-08-20
- Subjects: Ethnobotany , Traditional medicine , Medicinal plants , Materia medica, Vegetable , Khoisan (African people) - Ethnobotany , Namaqualand (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6278
- Description: M.Sc. , Scientific relevance: Qualitative and quantitative data is presented that give a new perspective on the traditional medicinal plants of the Khoisan (Khoe-San), one of the most ancient of human cultures. The data is not only of considerable historical and cultural value, but allows for fascinating comparative studies relating to new species records, novel use records and the spatial distribution of traditional medicinal plant use knowledge within the Cape Floristic Region. Aim of the study: A detailed documentation and quantitative analysis of medicinal plants of the Kamiesberg area (an important Khoisan and Nama cultural centre) and their medicinal traditional uses, which have hitherto remained unrecorded. Materials and methods: During four study visits to the Kamiesberg, semi-structured and structured interviews were conducted with 23 local inhabitants of the Kamiesberg, mostly of Khoisan decent. In addition to standard methodology, a newly developed Matrix Method was used to quantity medicinal plant knowledge. Results: The Kamiesberg is an important center of extant Nama ethnomedicinal information but the knowledge is rapidly disappearing. Of a total of 101 medicinal plants and 1375 anecdotes, 21 species were recorded for the first time as having traditional medicinal uses and at least 284 medicinal use records were new. The relative importance, popularity and uses of the plants were quantified. The 97 newly documented vernacular names include 23 Nama (Khoekhoegowab) names and an additional 55 new variations of known names. The calculated Ethnobotanical Knowledge Index (EKI) and other indices accurately quantify the level of knowledge and will allow for future comparisons, not only within the Kamiesberg area but also with other southern African communities of Khoisan decent. Conclusion: The results showed that the Kamiesberg is an important focal point of Khoisan (Nama) traditional knowledge but that the medicinal plants have not yet been systematically recorded in the scientific literature. There are numerous new use records and new species records that are in need of scientific study. Comparative data is now available for broader comparisons of the pattern of Khoisan plants use in southern Africa and the study represents another step towards a complete synthesis of Cape Herbal Medicine.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nortje, Janneke Margaretha
- Date: 2011-08-20
- Subjects: Ethnobotany , Traditional medicine , Medicinal plants , Materia medica, Vegetable , Khoisan (African people) - Ethnobotany , Namaqualand (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6278
- Description: M.Sc. , Scientific relevance: Qualitative and quantitative data is presented that give a new perspective on the traditional medicinal plants of the Khoisan (Khoe-San), one of the most ancient of human cultures. The data is not only of considerable historical and cultural value, but allows for fascinating comparative studies relating to new species records, novel use records and the spatial distribution of traditional medicinal plant use knowledge within the Cape Floristic Region. Aim of the study: A detailed documentation and quantitative analysis of medicinal plants of the Kamiesberg area (an important Khoisan and Nama cultural centre) and their medicinal traditional uses, which have hitherto remained unrecorded. Materials and methods: During four study visits to the Kamiesberg, semi-structured and structured interviews were conducted with 23 local inhabitants of the Kamiesberg, mostly of Khoisan decent. In addition to standard methodology, a newly developed Matrix Method was used to quantity medicinal plant knowledge. Results: The Kamiesberg is an important center of extant Nama ethnomedicinal information but the knowledge is rapidly disappearing. Of a total of 101 medicinal plants and 1375 anecdotes, 21 species were recorded for the first time as having traditional medicinal uses and at least 284 medicinal use records were new. The relative importance, popularity and uses of the plants were quantified. The 97 newly documented vernacular names include 23 Nama (Khoekhoegowab) names and an additional 55 new variations of known names. The calculated Ethnobotanical Knowledge Index (EKI) and other indices accurately quantify the level of knowledge and will allow for future comparisons, not only within the Kamiesberg area but also with other southern African communities of Khoisan decent. Conclusion: The results showed that the Kamiesberg is an important focal point of Khoisan (Nama) traditional knowledge but that the medicinal plants have not yet been systematically recorded in the scientific literature. There are numerous new use records and new species records that are in need of scientific study. Comparative data is now available for broader comparisons of the pattern of Khoisan plants use in southern Africa and the study represents another step towards a complete synthesis of Cape Herbal Medicine.
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Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea : a systematic review
- Pellow, Janice, Nienhuis, Chantelle
- Authors: Pellow, Janice , Nienhuis, Chantelle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Herbal medicines , Phytotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/259356 , uj:27286 , Citation: Pellow, J. & Nienhuis, C. 2018. Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea : a systematic review.
- Description: Abstract: Objectives: Primary dysmenorrhoea is a common complaint experienced by many females in their reproductive years. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of various gynaecological conditions is on the increase, despite the limited evidence available regarding efficacy and safety of their use. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the most recent evidence relating to the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea with medicinal plants. Methodology: A thorough database search was conducted using defined search terms, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English between 2008 and 2016, pertaining to the use of medicinal plants (single use) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea, were assessed. Studies evaluating dysmenorrhoeal pain and associated symptoms as a primary or secondary outcome were considered and assessed by two reviewers independently of each other, using the JADAD scale and the Cochrane risk of bias tool.
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- Authors: Pellow, Janice , Nienhuis, Chantelle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Herbal medicines , Phytotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/259356 , uj:27286 , Citation: Pellow, J. & Nienhuis, C. 2018. Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea : a systematic review.
- Description: Abstract: Objectives: Primary dysmenorrhoea is a common complaint experienced by many females in their reproductive years. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of various gynaecological conditions is on the increase, despite the limited evidence available regarding efficacy and safety of their use. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the most recent evidence relating to the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea with medicinal plants. Methodology: A thorough database search was conducted using defined search terms, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English between 2008 and 2016, pertaining to the use of medicinal plants (single use) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea, were assessed. Studies evaluating dysmenorrhoeal pain and associated symptoms as a primary or secondary outcome were considered and assessed by two reviewers independently of each other, using the JADAD scale and the Cochrane risk of bias tool.
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Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea : a systematic review
- Pellow, Janice, Nienhuis, Chantelle
- Authors: Pellow, Janice , Nienhuis, Chantelle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Herbal medicines , Phytotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Articles
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/268988 , uj:28566 , Citation: Pellow, J. & Nienhuis, C. 2018. Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea : a systematic review.
- Description: Abstract: Primary dysmenorrhoea is a common gynaecological complaint experienced by many females in their reproductive years. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the current evidence relating to the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea with medicinal plants. Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) published in English between 2008 and 2016, pertaining to the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea were assessed. Twenty-two RCTs were included in the review. Most medicinal plants, with the exception ofNoni (Morinda citrifolia),produced positive findings, with cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), damask rose (Rosa damascena), dill (Anethumgraveolens), felty germander (Teucriumpolium), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), fenugreek (Trigonellafoenum-graecum), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), peppermint (Mentha piperita), rhubarb (Rheum emodi), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) showing similar efficacy to commonly used NSAIDs (ibuprofen and mefanamic acid), while ginger (Zingiber officinale), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), wheat germ (Triticum aestivum) and yarrow (Achillea millefolium) showed efficacy in placebo-controlled trials. While further research is needed before definitive conclusions can be made, given their potential positive benefits and relative safety, these herbs may be considered on an individual basis.
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- Authors: Pellow, Janice , Nienhuis, Chantelle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Herbal medicines , Phytotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Articles
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/268988 , uj:28566 , Citation: Pellow, J. & Nienhuis, C. 2018. Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea : a systematic review.
- Description: Abstract: Primary dysmenorrhoea is a common gynaecological complaint experienced by many females in their reproductive years. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the current evidence relating to the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea with medicinal plants. Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) published in English between 2008 and 2016, pertaining to the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea were assessed. Twenty-two RCTs were included in the review. Most medicinal plants, with the exception ofNoni (Morinda citrifolia),produced positive findings, with cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), damask rose (Rosa damascena), dill (Anethumgraveolens), felty germander (Teucriumpolium), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), fenugreek (Trigonellafoenum-graecum), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), peppermint (Mentha piperita), rhubarb (Rheum emodi), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) showing similar efficacy to commonly used NSAIDs (ibuprofen and mefanamic acid), while ginger (Zingiber officinale), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), wheat germ (Triticum aestivum) and yarrow (Achillea millefolium) showed efficacy in placebo-controlled trials. While further research is needed before definitive conclusions can be made, given their potential positive benefits and relative safety, these herbs may be considered on an individual basis.
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Natural occurrence of fungi and mycotoxins in some selected South African medicinal plants with some antifungal properties
- Authors: Areo, Oluwaseun Mary
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mycotoxins , Antifungal agents , Toxigenic fungi , Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/243916 , uj:25217
- Description: M.Tech. (Food Technology) , Abstract: The importance of medicinal plants for the treatment of different diseases has stimulated their widespread utilization in South Africa, particularly considering that these plants are readily available and affordable. Although some of these plants may have antifungal properties, they could be contaminated with fungi under conditions in which they find themselves and thereafter produce secondary metabolites including mycotoxins known to cause severe health problems in both animals and humans. It could be assumed that since such medicinal plants have high contents of phytochemicals, such phytochemicals may hinder the proliferation of mycotoxigenic fungi and subsequent mycotoxin production. There is therefore, a need to establish the mycoflora and mycotoxin profile of these plants in South Africa as there are a number of reports elsewhere on increased fungal and mycotoxin contamination of medicinal plants. This study was aimed at investigating the presence of fungi and mycotoxins in South African medicinal plants and to assess the antifungal properties of these plants. Thirty-six (36) samples of various medicinal plants were randomly purchased from Faraday Muthi market in the Johannesburg metropolis. Using conventional methods and DNA sequencing thereafter, a mycological screening of samples revealed the identities of a total of 164 fungi that were recovered. Accordingly, Alternaria alternata, Aspergilus niger, A. parasiticus, A. flavus, A. ochraceus, A. nidulans, Cladosporium sp., Chaetomium sp., Emericella nidulans, Epicoccum sp., Fusarium oxalicum, F. proliferatum, F. graminearum, P. aurantiogriseum, P. expansum, Mucor sp. and Rhizopus sp. with A. niger occurring most frequently. Over 39% of withal recovered isolates were identified as Aspergillus spp. with fungal load above the 1 x 103 CFU/g permissible limit set by World Health Organization (WHO). Of all the medicinal plants, Acacia karoo had the lowest fungal load of 1.8 × 104 CFU/g of sample, whereas Putranjiva roxburgii, Schotia brachypetata and Elephantorriza elephantine both had the highest fungal contamination level of 2 × 107 CFU/g sample. Mycotoxicological investigation for some economically important mycotoxins including total aflatoxins (AFs) [aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1) and G2 (AFG2)], ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenone (ZEA) was carried out following the multi-mycotoxin extraction method and quantification thereafter performed on a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) instrument. The analysis showed that AFs, OTA and ZEA occurred in most of the samples...
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- Authors: Areo, Oluwaseun Mary
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mycotoxins , Antifungal agents , Toxigenic fungi , Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/243916 , uj:25217
- Description: M.Tech. (Food Technology) , Abstract: The importance of medicinal plants for the treatment of different diseases has stimulated their widespread utilization in South Africa, particularly considering that these plants are readily available and affordable. Although some of these plants may have antifungal properties, they could be contaminated with fungi under conditions in which they find themselves and thereafter produce secondary metabolites including mycotoxins known to cause severe health problems in both animals and humans. It could be assumed that since such medicinal plants have high contents of phytochemicals, such phytochemicals may hinder the proliferation of mycotoxigenic fungi and subsequent mycotoxin production. There is therefore, a need to establish the mycoflora and mycotoxin profile of these plants in South Africa as there are a number of reports elsewhere on increased fungal and mycotoxin contamination of medicinal plants. This study was aimed at investigating the presence of fungi and mycotoxins in South African medicinal plants and to assess the antifungal properties of these plants. Thirty-six (36) samples of various medicinal plants were randomly purchased from Faraday Muthi market in the Johannesburg metropolis. Using conventional methods and DNA sequencing thereafter, a mycological screening of samples revealed the identities of a total of 164 fungi that were recovered. Accordingly, Alternaria alternata, Aspergilus niger, A. parasiticus, A. flavus, A. ochraceus, A. nidulans, Cladosporium sp., Chaetomium sp., Emericella nidulans, Epicoccum sp., Fusarium oxalicum, F. proliferatum, F. graminearum, P. aurantiogriseum, P. expansum, Mucor sp. and Rhizopus sp. with A. niger occurring most frequently. Over 39% of withal recovered isolates were identified as Aspergillus spp. with fungal load above the 1 x 103 CFU/g permissible limit set by World Health Organization (WHO). Of all the medicinal plants, Acacia karoo had the lowest fungal load of 1.8 × 104 CFU/g of sample, whereas Putranjiva roxburgii, Schotia brachypetata and Elephantorriza elephantine both had the highest fungal contamination level of 2 × 107 CFU/g sample. Mycotoxicological investigation for some economically important mycotoxins including total aflatoxins (AFs) [aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1) and G2 (AFG2)], ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenone (ZEA) was carried out following the multi-mycotoxin extraction method and quantification thereafter performed on a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) instrument. The analysis showed that AFs, OTA and ZEA occurred in most of the samples...
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Optimization of pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) of pharmacologically relevant metabolites from green leafy plants with the aid of UPLC-MS and multivariate data models
- Authors: Khoza, Bradley Sandile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Chemometrics , Plant metabolites , Medicinal plants , High performance liquid chromatography
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/124697 , uj:20948
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Sc. (Biochemistry)
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- Authors: Khoza, Bradley Sandile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Chemometrics , Plant metabolites , Medicinal plants , High performance liquid chromatography
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/124697 , uj:20948
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Sc. (Biochemistry)
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Phytochemical analysis and antibacterial properties of zantedeschia aethiopica
- Authors: Pelo, Sharon Pauline
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Plants - Analysis , Botanical chemistry , Phytochemicals , Medicinal plants , Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235914 , uj:24135
- Description: M.Tech. (Biotechnology) , Abstract: The use of plants for medicinal purposes has over the years come under the spotlight of scientists throughout the world. It is estimated that about 60-80% of the world’s population in developing countries depend on traditional medicine for their primary health care. Some of the prescribed medicines contain some form of ingredients derived from phytochemicals, mostly inspired by indigenous knowledge systems. Zantedeschia aethiopica is a plant native to South Africa, with little biological and phytochemical information and currently regarded as an ornamental plant. The present study was carried out to evaluate its phytochemical and antimicrobial properties. Phytochemical screening and extraction were performed using chloroform/methanol, water, hexane and ethyl acetate separately. Based on the phytochemical tests, the chloroform/methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were shown to be abundant in alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids and tannins, while the water extract showed little or no presence of phytochemicals. Antibacterial activities tested on a range of gram negative and positive bacteria species (Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumonia, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus) were performed using the disc diffusion susceptibility assay and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) methods. Zantedeschia aethiopica organic solvent crude extracts concentrations ranging from 8 mg/mL to 16 mg/mL inhibited the growth of all the bacterial species listed, except for Staphylococcus aureus. Whereas, Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter aerogenes and Mycobacterium smegmatis were inhibited at concentrations ranging between 1 mg/mL to 16 mg/mL with Proteus mirabilis showing more susceptibility (MIC of 0.25 mg/mL). A two-dimension gas chromatography coupled with time of flight mass spectroscopy (GCxGC/TOF-MS) was used to preliminarily identify the plant’s secondary metabolites. Interestingly, although the data obtained showed compounds such as 27.84 Allyl decanoate; 44, 2-aminobenzoate; Aziridine, 2,2-dimethyl-;1-Dodecyne; docosanoic acid-methyl ester; E-1,8-Dodecadiene; Undecane; 2(3H)-Furanone, dihydro-4-methyl-; 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-; 17-Octadecynoic acid; 9,12-Octadecadienal; 9,12-Octadecadienoyl chloride, (Z,Z)-; Oleic acid; 2-Oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, 1,3,3-trimethyl-;2-Oxetanone, 3,3-dimethyl-; Phenol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-; Phenol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-; Octadecanoic acid and 2-...
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- Authors: Pelo, Sharon Pauline
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Plants - Analysis , Botanical chemistry , Phytochemicals , Medicinal plants , Zantedeschia aethiopica
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/235914 , uj:24135
- Description: M.Tech. (Biotechnology) , Abstract: The use of plants for medicinal purposes has over the years come under the spotlight of scientists throughout the world. It is estimated that about 60-80% of the world’s population in developing countries depend on traditional medicine for their primary health care. Some of the prescribed medicines contain some form of ingredients derived from phytochemicals, mostly inspired by indigenous knowledge systems. Zantedeschia aethiopica is a plant native to South Africa, with little biological and phytochemical information and currently regarded as an ornamental plant. The present study was carried out to evaluate its phytochemical and antimicrobial properties. Phytochemical screening and extraction were performed using chloroform/methanol, water, hexane and ethyl acetate separately. Based on the phytochemical tests, the chloroform/methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were shown to be abundant in alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids and tannins, while the water extract showed little or no presence of phytochemicals. Antibacterial activities tested on a range of gram negative and positive bacteria species (Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumonia, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus) were performed using the disc diffusion susceptibility assay and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) methods. Zantedeschia aethiopica organic solvent crude extracts concentrations ranging from 8 mg/mL to 16 mg/mL inhibited the growth of all the bacterial species listed, except for Staphylococcus aureus. Whereas, Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter aerogenes and Mycobacterium smegmatis were inhibited at concentrations ranging between 1 mg/mL to 16 mg/mL with Proteus mirabilis showing more susceptibility (MIC of 0.25 mg/mL). A two-dimension gas chromatography coupled with time of flight mass spectroscopy (GCxGC/TOF-MS) was used to preliminarily identify the plant’s secondary metabolites. Interestingly, although the data obtained showed compounds such as 27.84 Allyl decanoate; 44, 2-aminobenzoate; Aziridine, 2,2-dimethyl-;1-Dodecyne; docosanoic acid-methyl ester; E-1,8-Dodecadiene; Undecane; 2(3H)-Furanone, dihydro-4-methyl-; 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-; 17-Octadecynoic acid; 9,12-Octadecadienal; 9,12-Octadecadienoyl chloride, (Z,Z)-; Oleic acid; 2-Oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, 1,3,3-trimethyl-;2-Oxetanone, 3,3-dimethyl-; Phenol, 2-methyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-; Phenol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-; Octadecanoic acid and 2-...
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