Traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology review of 2 Vitex: diversifolia and doniana

Genus Vitex is largely used throughout the world (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Lesotho, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa) for various care such as: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, hepatocuractive, intestinal troubles. Among the plurality of known Vitex, the most exploited in Burkina Faso are Vitex diversifolia Bak and Vitex doniana Sweet. Then, the aim of this study is to summarize traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of 2 local species of Vitex. The results of this study show that the species of this genus are rich in polyphenolic compounds, minerals and vitamins. These founding can justify the many uses in traditional medicine.

Extracts of Guiera senegalensis J.F. Gmel (Combretaceae) Galls Ameliorates Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus Rats Status

Background:A good number of medicinal and dietary plants are used for diabetes treatment in Burkina Faso. Aim of the Study:The present study aimed to investigate the antidiabetic activity of Guiera senegalensisgalls extracts and its potential mechanisms in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methodology:The methanol extract was administered by gavage to healthy Wistar rats for the determination of toxicity, to normal and diabetic Wistar rats forthe determination of glucose reduction level, lipid profile, insulin level and glycaemic parameters in serum. The histology and immunohistochemistry of thepancreas were also determined.Results:The acute toxicity results showed that the medium lethal dose (LD50) of the methanol galls extract of Guiera senegalensisis greater than 2000 mg/kg body weight in rats. Guiera senegalensismethanolic extract (250 mg/kg) and the tolbutamide (100 mg/kg) recorded a significantly (p < 0.05)lower level of triglyceride compared to the diabetic group. The methanol extract (250 and 500 mg/kg pc) significantly (p < 0.05)decreased the blood glucose level and increased the serum insulin level in diabetic rats. Interestingly, improved ß-cell function and antioxidant status were also observed in G. senegalensis-treated diabetic rats when compared to tolbutamide-treated diabetic rats.Conclusion:These data showed direct evidence that G. senegalensishas antidiabetic activity by decreasing blood glucose level, improving insulin secretion and β-cell functions and modulating antioxidant status