Acute and Subchronic Toxicity Studies on the Aqueous Extract of the Plant Mixture (Bidens pilosa and Cymbopogon citratus Aerial Parts) in Rat Model.

Bidens pilosa (B. pilosa) and Cymbopogon citratus (C. citratus) are plants used individually or in combination in the traditional treatment of several ailments such as cardiovascular disorders. In order to valorise their traditional use, a toxicological study was conducted on the aqueous extract of the mixture of aerial parts of B. pilosa and C. citratus. The acute and subchronic toxicity studies were conducted according to the OECD 425 and 407 guidelines. Regarding the acute study, the aqueous extract of the mixture of B. pilosa and C. citratus 50 : 50 (2000 and 5000 mg/kg) was administered once to rats of both sexes. In the subchronic study, the aqueous extract of the mixture of B. pilosa and C. citratus (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg) was administered once daily to rats for 28 days. The aqueous extract of the mixture of B. pilosa and C. citratus (2000 and 5000 mg/kg) did not cause death and did not induce any apparent sign of toxicity during the 14 days of observation. The DL50 of the extract is therefore greater than 5000 mg/kg. Taken daily for 28 days, the extract had no significant effect on selected parameters (creatinine, AST, ALT, urea, and uric acid) of renal and hepatic function, as well as on the number of some blood cells. However, the aqueous extract of the mixture of B. pilosa and C. citratus (200 and 400 mg/kg) caused a significant (p < 0.05; p < 0.001, respectively) decrease in creatinine levels in male rats as compared to normal control animals. In females, the aqueous extract of the mixture of B. pilosa and C. citratus (200 and 400 mg/kg) resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) increase in total cholesterol levels as compared to normal control animals. The study showed that the aqueous extract of the mixture of B. pilosa and C. citratus has a low toxicity and does not cause any injury to the liver, kidney, lungs, or spleen.

Amaranthus hybridus (Amaranthaceae) prevents the detrimental effects of cyclophosphamide on ovarian function in Wistar rats: An experimental study.

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an anticancer agent, but its chronic administration induces ovarian toxicity. Objective: We evaluated the effects of aqueous extract (AE) and methanol extract (ME) of Amaranthus hybridus (A. hybridus) on CP-induced ovarian toxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: 40 female Wistar rats (10 wk, 170-200 gr) were distributed into 8 groups (n = 5/each) as follows: 1) healthy control; 2) CP+distilled water (10 ml/kg/d); 3) CP+3%-tween 80 (10 mL/kg/d); 4) CP+clomiphene citrate (2 mg/kg/d); 5, 6) CP+AE of A. hybridus (55 and 110 mg/kg/d); and 7, 8) CP+ME of A. hybridus (55 and 110 mg/kg/d). After 28 days of treatment, estrus cyclicity, ovarian and uterine weights as well as estradiol levels and ovarian histology were determined. Results: CP induced ovarian toxicity after 28 days of exposure. More specifically, CP disturbed the estrus cycle, decreased ovary and uterus weights (p = 0.04), and the 17-ß estradiol level (p = 0.04), and induced severe ovarian damages. Remarkably, A. hybridus significantly increased (p = 0.03) the ovarian weight (AE and ME at all doses) and uterus weight (ME at 110 mg/kg/d), compared with the CP-treated rats. Moreover, the 17-ß estradiol level was significantly elevated (p = 0.02) in rats given clomiphene citrate and A. hybridus (AE 110 mg/kg/d; ME 55 mg/kg/d). Finally, the ovaries of rats given plant extracts had many corpus luteum and normal follicles, and no cystic follicles. Conclusion: prevented the detrimental effects of CP on ovarian function, which could support its traditional use as a fertility enhancer.

In Vitro Cercaricidal and Schistosomicidal Activities of the Raffia Wine and Hydroethanolic Extracts of Pedilanthus tithymaloides Linn (Poit). Stem Barks.

Schistosomiasis control remains a public health concern, and there is a need to evaluate new strategies for targeting larval and adult stages of the parasite. As Pedilanthus tithymaloides is empirically used to treat schistosomiasis, it becomes essential to know its effective action scientifically. This study assessed the cercaricidal and schistosomicidal activity of P. tithymaloides stem barks raffia wine extract (RwPt) and hydroethanolic extract (HePt). Different concentrations of these extracts were tested against cercariae (31.25-1000 µg/mL) and adult worms (62.5-2000 µg/mL) of Schistosoma mansoni. Niclosamide-olamine 5% (1 µg/mL) and praziquantel (10 µg/mL) were used as pharmacological controls. Cercariae viability was determined every 30 min for 180 min, and adult worms' motor activity and viability after 24 and 48 h incubation. In addition, cytotoxicity and phytochemical analysis were performed. HePt was lethal to cercariae and adult worms with LC50 of 73.91 µg/mL after 60 min of incubation and 731.17 µg/mL after 48 h of incubation, respectively. Furthermore, a significant reduction of 94.44% in motor activity was observed in surviving worms at the concentration of 2000 µg/mL. RwPt was less effective on S. mansoni cercariae with an LC50 of 617.86 µg/mL after 180 min and on adult worms with a mortality rate of 9.83% at 2000 µg/mL for 48 h incubation. Both extracts showed a weak cytotoxicity profile with an IC50 of 983.50 µg/mL for HePt and more than 1000 µg/mL for RwPt. The LC-MS analysis of HePt allowed the detection of two annotated diterpenoids. Based on the selectivity index, the hydroethanolic extract of P. tithymaloides stem barks disclosed an intense cercaricidal activity and a moderate schistosomicidal effect with low cytotoxicity. These findings may support the potential use of Pedilanthus tithymaloides as a natural product or a source of natural-derived compounds for interrupting schistosomiasis transmission.

Antidiabetic and Antiradical Effects of Garcinia kola Seeds in Dexamethasone-Induced Hyperglycemic Rats.

Background: In traditional medicine, the maceration of seeds of Garcinia kola (GK) is used to treat various diseases including diabetes. In traditional pharmacopoeia, GK seeds are used to strengthen the immune system and as a stimulant and aphrodisiac. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic free radical scavenging effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of GK seeds (HAEGS) in a dexamethasone-induced hyperglycemic (DexIH) rat model. Settings and Design: This study was an interventional study. Subjects and Methods: Here using in vivo model, we assessed some pharmacological properties of HAEGS in DexIH rat. Hypoglycemia, antihyperglycemia, spasmolytic and laxative activities were also evaluated in DexIH. In vitro study assessed antiradical activity. The HAEGS was obtained by decoction introducing 250 g with water-ethanol mixture (30:70). The plant extract was administered to the animals at doses of 50 (GK50) and 100 (GK100) mg/kg body weight. All animal experiments were in accordance with ARRIVE guidelines and were performed in accordance with the scientific procedures of UK Animals. Antiradical activity of GK was assessed in vitro by inhibition of the activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 5.03 software, and P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: At doses 50 and 100 mg/kg, GK significantly (P < 0.001) regulated DexIH after two weeks of treatment compared to the normoglycemic control and hyperglycemic rats. The extract at both doses significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited the spasmolytic activity in both normoglycemic and hyperglycemic rats compared to Imodium®. In rats DexIH rats, only dose 100 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) increased laxative effects when compared to the negative control. In vitro antiradical activity of GK revealed vitamin C-like antiradical activity. Conclusions: This study justifies the traditional use of GK seeds as an antidiabetic.

Protein undernutrition reduces the efficacy of praziquantel in a murine model of Schistosoma mansoni infection.

BACKGROUND: Undernutrition and schistosomiasis are public health problems and often occur in low and middle-income countries. Protein undernutrition can alter the host-parasite environment system and aggravate the course of schistosomiasis. This study aimed to assess the impact of a low-protein diet on the efficacy of praziquantel. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Thirty-day-old mice were fed with a low-protein diet, and 40 days later, they were individually infected with fifty Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. A 28-day-treatment with praziquantel at 100 mg/kg for five consecutive days followed by distilled water begins on the 36th day post-infection. Mice were sacrificed on the 64th day post-infection. We determined the parasitological burden, liver and intestine histomorphometry, liver injury, and immunomodulation parameters. Praziquantel treatment of infected mice fed with a standard diet (IN-PZQ) resulted in a significant reduction of worm and egg burdens and a normalization of iron and calcium levels. The therapy also improved schistosomiasis-induced hepatopathy and oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of praziquantel were also significant in these mice. When infected mice receiving the low-protein diet were treated with praziquantel (ILP-PZQ), the body weight loss and hepatomegaly were not alleviated, and the worm and liver egg burdens were significantly higher than those of IN-PZQ mice (P < 0.001). The treatment did not reduce the increased activities of ALT and γ-GGT, the high malondialdehyde concentration, and the liver granuloma volume. The iron and calcium levels were not ameliorated and differed from those of IN-PZQ mice (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05). Moreover, in these mice, praziquantel treatment did not reverse the high level of IL-5 and the low mRNA expression of CCL3/MIP-1α and CXCL-10/IP-10 induced by S. mansoni infection. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: These results demonstrated that a low-protein diet reduced the schistosomicidal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities of praziquantel.

Pathological and immunological evaluation of different regimens of praziquantel treatment in a mouse model of Schistosoma mansoni infection.

BACKGROUND: One of the considerable challenges of schistosomiasis chemotherapy is the inefficacy of praziquantel (PZQ) at the initial phase of the infection. Immature schistosomes are not susceptible to PZQ at the curative dose. Here, we investigated the efficacy of different PZQ regimens administered during the initial stage of Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Two months-old mice were individually infected with 80 S. mansoni cercariae and divided into one infected-untreated control group (IC) and four PZQ-treated groups: PZQ at 100 mg/kg/day for five consecutive days (group PZQ1), PZQ at 100 mg/kg/day for 28 days (group PZQ2), PZQ at 18 mg/kg/day for 28 days (group PZQ3) and a single dose of PZQ at 500 mg/kg (group PZQ4). The treatment started on day one post-infection (p.i), and each group of mice was divided into two subgroups euthanized on day 36 or 56 p.i, respectively. We determined the mortality rate, the parasitological burden, the hepatic and intestinal granulomas, the serum levels of Th-1, Th-2, and Th-17 cytokines, and gene expression. The treatment led to a significant (p < 0.001) reduction of worm burden and egg counts in the intestine and liver in groups PZQ2 and PZQ3. On 56th day p.i, there was a significant reduction (p < 0.001) of the number and volume of the hepatic granulomas in groups PZQ2 and PZQ3 compared to group PZQ1 or PZQ4. Moreover, in group PZQ3, the serum levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-13, and IL-17 and their liver mRNA expressions were significantly reduced while IL-10 and TGF-ß gene expression significantly increased. The highest mortality rate (81.25%) was recorded in group PZQ2. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: This study revealed that the administration of PZQ at 18 mg/kg/day for 28 consecutive days was the optimal effective posology for treating S. mansoni infection at the initial stage in a murine model.

Reduction of testosterone levels in Schistosoma haematobium- or Schistosoma mansoni-infected men: a cross-sectional study in two schistosomiasis-endemic areas of the Adamawa region of Cameroon.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of schistosomiasis-induced male reproductive dysfunction and infertility is probably underestimated compared to female genital schistosomiasis. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Schistosoma haematobium or S. mansoni infection on the reproductive function of men of reproductive age in Tibati and Wouldé, two endemic schistosomiasis areas in the Adamawa region of Cameroon. METHODS: A total of 89 men of reproductive age (range 14-56 years) from two localities were enrolled in the study, with 51 in Tibati and 38 in Wouldé. Each participant was submitted to a questionnaire to document data on sociodemographic and stream contact behaviors. A medical examination was performed to measure the testes' circumference and evaluate genital tract pathologies. Stool and urine samples were collected and screened for the presence of S. haematobium or S. mansoni ova. Blood serum was used to assess the levels of transaminases and testosterone. RESULTS: Schistosoma haematobium was present only in Tibati, with a prevalence of 31.37%. The S. mansoni prevalence was 3.92% at Tibati and 44.71% at Wouldé. The intensity of infection was 22.12 ± 9.57 eggs/10 mL for S. haematobium and 128.10 ± 3.76 epg for S. mansoni. Serum transaminase activity and the mean testicular circumference of Schistosoma-positive individuals were close to Schistosoma-negative individuals. However, the testes size was more prominent in S. mansoni-positive individuals than in S. haematobium-positive individuals (P < 0.05). The serum testosterone levels of S. haematobium- and S. mansoni-positive men were significantly reduced by 56.07% (P < 0.001) and 51.94% (P < 0.01), respectively, in comparison to those of Schistosoma-negative men. A significant and negative correlation was established between schistosomiasis and the low serum testosterone level. Male genital tract pathologies such as scrotal abnormalities, varicocele, nodular epididymis, inguinal hernia, and hydrocele were recorded in both Schistosoma-positive and Schistosoma-negative men. However, no significant link was established between schistosomiasis infection and these pathologies. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrated that infection with S. haematobium or S. mansoni is associated with low production of the reproductive hormone testosterone and may be a significant cause of male infertility.

Preventive Potential of the Aqueous Extract of the Mixture of Bidens pilosa (Asteraceae) and Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae) Aerial Parts on Hypertension Induced by a Chronic Salt and Alcohol Consumption on the Rats.

High blood pressure (HBP) is currently one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular and kidney diseases. Nowadays, populations make extensive use of alternative medicine for their health problems. Bidens pilosa (B. pilosa) and Cymbopogon citratus (C. citratus) are used individually in the traditional treatment of cardiovascular disorders. This study assessed the effects of the mixture of these two plants aqueous extract on HBP in rats. Male rats (42) were divided into 7 groups of 6 rats each. Normotensive rats received only distilled water and formed group 1. The other animals received ethanol + salt preceded by distilled water (10 mL/kg; group 2) and spironolactone (10 mg/kg; group 3); the aqueous extracts of the mixture (100 and 200 mg/kg; groups 4 and 5) isolated plants B. pilosa (200 mg/kg; group 6) and C. citratus (200 mg/kg; group 7). Animals were treated for 7 weeks during which water consumption and urine volume were assessed; then, hemodynamic parameters were recorded, and rats were sacrificed. Serum and some organs (liver, kidney, heart, and aorta) were used to evaluate biochemical parameters. Ingestion of ethanol + salt leads to a significant increase in urinary volume and water intake that were significantly prevented by the extracts from the mixture and isolated plants. Ethanol + salt solution significantly increased the blood pressure, heart rate, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-chol), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-chol), atherogenic indices, liver and kidney function parameters, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. However, the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-chol), albumin, reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were significantly reduced. The extracts of the mixture and isolated plants significantly prevented all these variations with a more pronounced action for the lowest dose of the mixture on the lipid profile, oxidative stress, and kidney function. These observations confirm the beneficial effects of B. pilosa and C. citratus to manage hypertension.

Subchronic administration of Parastar insecticide induced behavioral changes and impaired motor coordination in male Wistar rats.

Parastar is an insecticide formulation of lambda-cyhalothrin and imidacloprid largely used for crop protection in North West Region of Cameroon. In the present study, we evaluated the behavioral activities and motor function of Wistar male rats after subchronic treatment with the pesticide formulation. To this end, three groups of adult rats were administered Parastar at doses 1.25, 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg, respectively, for 35 days. A control group was included and received distilled water. At the end of the treatment, the animals were submitted to behavioral and functional tests (open field test, elevated plus maze test, light-dark box test, forced swimming test, tail suspension test, beam-walking test, grid suspension test and wire hang test) for estimation of anxiety, exploration, depression and motor coordination. Results revealed that Parastar, at the higher doses tested, 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg, induced anxiogenic-like pattern behavior in rats in all behavioral assays including open field test (total distance moved, total lines crossed, frequency and total time in center square were all reduced), elevated plus maze (decreased total time spent in open arms and the number of entries in open arms of the elevated plus maze), and light-dark box (the dark box duration increased, while light box duration time and frequency of transition between dark and light box decreased). Treatment with 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg Parastar increased the immobility time of animals in both forced swimming test and tail suspension test. The insecticide induced decrease in the distance traveled, foot slip and number of turns of animals in the beam walking test. Parastar also decreased the animal suspension time in both grid suspension grip-strength test and the wire hang test. Taken altogether, these results suggest that subchronic administration of Parastar at the doses of 2.49 and 6.23 mg/kg induced anxiety-like and depressive-like behavior as well as impaired motor coordination and muscle strength in male rats.

Estrogenic and Antioxidant Activities of Pterocarpus soyauxii (Fabaceae) Heartwood Aqueous Extract in Bilateral Oophorectomized Wistar Rat.

Phytoestrogens are used to ease postmenopausal symptoms, a property probably due to estrogenic and antioxidant effects. Pterocarpus soyauxii (P. soyauxii) is empirically used in Cameroon to treat among others primary and secondary amenorrhea. The aim of this study is to evaluate estrogenic and antioxidant activities of P. soyauxii heartwood aqueous extract in bilateral oophorectomized Wistar rats. Firstly, a characterization of the extract was carried out. For that, flavonoids, phenols, and tannins levels in P. soyauxii extract were evaluated by colorimetric assays and UHPLC-MS analysis was realized. In vitro antioxidant analysis of P. soyauxii was conducted using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Secondly, 2 sets of pharmacologic tests were carried out. The results revealed that P. soyauxii aqueous extract contains, respectively, 229.42 ± 3.62 mg EAG/g, 63.42 ± 2.16 mg EQ/g, and 27.88 ± 0.23 mg ETA/g of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. UHPLC-MS enabled identifying seven components including mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, cembrene, 3',5'-dimethoxy-4-stilbenol, and linoleic acid. DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays revealed that P. soyauxii extract possessed a high antioxidant activity with IC50 value of 730.20 µg/mL, 892.90 µg/mL, and 765.75 mEAG/g of extract, respectively. In the uterotrophic assay, P. soyauxii extract induced significant increase of fresh uterine weight, uterine and vaginal epithelial size, and mammary glands differentiation compared to Ovx control. In the postmenopausal model, compared to the sham control, vagina and uterine dystrophies were observed in Ovx rats treated with distilled water. P. soyauxii aqueous extract expressed estrogenic-like effects on vagina and did not affect uterine epithelial height compared with vehicle groups. On the back of these vaginotrophic effects, the extract displayed antiatherogenic properties by reducing (p < 0.001) AI and LDL cholesterol level as compared to Ovx control group. The extract at 200 mg/kg significantly prevented the increase of MDA (p < 0.01) level and decreased nitrites (p < 0.001) and GSH (p < 0.01) levels compared to Ovx rats. These beneficial effects are related at least in part to the presence of compound such as mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, 3',5'-dimethoxy-4-stilbenol, and linoleic acid. Overall, P. soyauxii aqueous extract exhibits estrogenic and antioxidant effects which can inhibit postmenopausal symptoms by providing vaginal stratification, improving lipid profile and insulin sensitivity, and reducing oxidative stress without side effects on the endometrium and mammary gland in 84-day Ovx rats.

Antihypertensive and antidiabetic activities of Erythrina senegalensis DC (Fabaceae) stem bark aqueous extract on diabetic hypertensive rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Erythrina senegalensis is traditionally used in Cameroon for its relaxing and hypoglycemic properties in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. AIM OF THE STUDY: High blood pressure and diabetes mellitus are frequently linked. These pathologies represent major risk factors for cardiovascular and renal diseases. The present study was designed to evaluate the antidiabetic and antihypertensive activity of the stem bark of Erythrina senegalensis aqueous extract in male hypertensive diabetic rats (HDR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hypertension and diabetes were induced by oral administration of sucrose (15%) and ethanol (40°) at doses of 1.5 g/kg and 5 g/kg respectively for 30 days, followed by an intravenous injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 40 mg/kg). A control group of 5 rats received distilled water (10 mL/kg) followed by intravenous injection of 0.9% NaCl (1 mL/100 g). HDR were divided into 4 groups of 5 rats each according to their blood glucose level and continued to receive ethanol in association with: distilled water (10 mL/kg); group I, metformin (200 mg/kg)+nifedipine (10 mg/kg); group II, plant extract (100 and 200 mg/kg) group IV and V, respectively for 28 days. At the end of the treatment, hemodynamic parameters were recorded by the direct method. Animals were sacrificed; blood and organs (aorta, heart, liver, and kidneys) were collected for biochemical and histological analysis. Phytochemistry and HPLC-DAD-HRESI-MS were used to determine the major compounds of the extract. RESULTS: The administration of sucrose, alcohol, and STZ resulted in a significant increase in blood glucose, hemodynamic parameters, and body weight loss. A significant decrease in pancreatic islets size, nitrite, GSH, SOD and catalase activity was observed in HDR. There was also a significant increase in serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, creatinine, bilirubin, and transaminases activity in HDR. The aqueous extract of E. senegalensis, as well as the metformin + nifedipine combination, significantly improved all these parameters. HPLC coupled to both diode array and mass spectrometry detectors revealed the presence of 15 compounds and 11 of them were identified. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the aqueous extract of E. senegalensis possess antihypertensive, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, cardiomodulator and antioxidant properties involved in the improvement of the metabolic disorders found in HDR. This may be due at least in part to the presence of Erysenegalensein (D, O, N, E), Warangalone, senegalensin and 6,8-diprenylgenistein identified in the extract.

Aphrodisiac property of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Raphia vinifera (Arecaceae) in sexually experienced male rats.

BACKGROUND: Raphia vinifera (Arecaceae) is a medicinal plant commonly used as a sexual enhancer. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the aphrodisiac potential of aqueous extract (AE) and methanolic extract (ME) of R. vinifera in sexually experienced male rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly distributed into six groups (5 rats per group) and administered for 14 days with distilled water (10 ml/kg), sildenafil citrate (1.44 mg/kg), and AE or ME of R. vinifera (100 or 500 mg/kg). The copulatory activity was tested on days 0, 7, and 14 using receptive females. Further, on day 14, rats were sacrificed and biochemical analyses (testosterone, total protein, and acid phosphatase) were performed. RESULTS: Sildenafil citrate significantly decreased the intromission latency (day 14, p = 0.04) and frequency (days 7 and 14, p = 0.03) but increased the mount frequency (day 14, p = 0.04), compared with control. Remarkably, R. vinifera enhanced the sexual activity by significantly decreasing the intromission latency (AE and ME, 500 mg/kg, day 14, p = 0.04) and increasing the mount frequency (AE and ME, 100 mg/kg, day 7, p = 0.02) compared with control. Moreover, R. vinifera improved plasmatic (AE, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.03; AE, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.001; ME, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.01) and testicular (AE, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.001; AE, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.01; ME, 100 mg/kg, p = 0.001; ME, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.01) testosterone levels as well as plasmatic total proteins concentration (ME, 500 mg/kg, p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: These findings showed that R. vinifera possesses an aphrodisiac property which could further justify its folkloric use in traditional medicine as a sexual enhancer.

Efficacy of Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf methanolic extract against Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver injury in mice.

The roots of Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf are used in traditional medicine to treat intestinal helminthiasis. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Ozoroa pulcherrima roots methanolic extract (OPME) on liver injury induced by Schistosoma mansoni in mice. A preliminary phytochemical study of OPME was conducted. OPME was given daily and orally to S. mansoni-infected mice at 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg for 28 days, starting from the 36th day post-infection. Praziquantel was used as reference drug. Non-infected and infected-untreated mice served as controls. Worm burden and egg output, transaminases, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and total protein; as well as malondialdehyde, catalase and reduced glutathione were evaluated. In OPME, total phenolic was 79.61 ± 0.25 mg gallic acid equivalent/g, while total flavonoid was 7.98 ± 0.04 mg rutin equivalent/g. Treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with OPME produced significant reduction of worm burden and ova count in the faeces, liver and intestine. Significant reduction of alanine aminotransferase activity (p < 0.001) as well as significant increase of total protein content (p < 0.001) was recorded after OPME treatment at all doses. Total bilirubin level was also reduced (p < 0.01). Administration of OPME at all doses corrected the high malondialdehyde level (p < 0.001) induced by the infection. At 200 mg/kg, catalase activity and reduced glutathione concentration were significantly increased (p < 0.001). OPME at 200 mg/kg showed moderate schistosomicidal effect, but was effective as the standard drug praziquantel in restoring the liver function after S. mansoni infection.

Nymphaea lotus Linn. (Nymphaeaceae) Alleviates Sexual Disability in L-NAME Hypertensive Male Rats.

Hypertension (HT) is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). This study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effect of Nymphaea lotus (N. lotus) on erectile dysfunction induced by NO deficiency in rat. 40 male rats equally divided into 4 groups received an oral treatment with 10 mg/kg/day of L-NAME, a NO blocker, during 4 weeks. Control group composed of 10 male rats received only distilled water (10 mL/kg). Thereafter oral treatments with N. lotus (75 and 200 mg/kg/day) and losartan (10 mg/kg/day) started and continued concomitantly with L-NAME in 3 groups for 4 additional weeks. Normal and negative controls received only distilled water. Sexual behaviour, orientation activities, anxiety, and penile histomorphology were evaluated at the end of treatment. L-NAME administration elevated significantly the blood pressure in male rats and decreased the copulatory rate by enhancing intromission latency and decreasing the numbers of intromission and ejaculation. However, the sexual motivation remains unaltered by chronic NO blockage suggesting that L-NAME induces penile dysfunction mainly by peripheral mechanisms. L-NAME chronic intake also induced anxiety, 4 weeks of N. lotus cotreatment prevented inhibitory effects of L-NAME on male sexual behaviour by shortening mainly ejaculation latency and postejaculatory interval while losartan does not. Losartan proved to be a more effective drug to decrease the blood pressure compared to the plant extract. Effectively, Nymphea lotus was able to reverse totally at 75 mg/kg the increment of hemodynamic parameters and the histological damage and exhibit anxiolytic-like effects in hypertensive male rats. Nymphaea lotus uses NO pathway to facilitate sexual responses at central and peripheral levels and can have a double medicinal use, against anxiety and erectile dysfunction.

Aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dracaena arborea (Wild) Link (Dracaenaceae) alleviate reproductive complications of diabetes mellitus in rats.

Reproductive dysfunction is one of the most prevalent diabetes complications. Draceana arborea is known to enhance sexual function in diabetic rats, but the underlying mechanisms have not been thoroughly elucidated. This study examined the effects of D. arborea on some reproductive complications of diabetes in rats. Aqueous and ethanol (500 and 100 mg/kg respectively) extracts of D. arborea, Sildenafil citrate (1.44 mg/kg), trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO, 20 mg/kg) and distilled water (10 ml/kg) were orally administered for 28 days to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Glycaemia, body and reproductive organ masses, fertility parameters, total proteins, antioxidant enzymes activities, serum and testicular testosterone and the histology of the testes and epididymis were determined. Results revealed significant decreases in body and absolute and relative masses of testes, epididymis, seminal vesicles, prostate and vas deferens, fertility parameters, epididymal and testicular total proteins, serum and testicular testosterone levels as well as antioxidant enzymes activities. Interestingly, while having minor anti-hyperglycaemic effects, these abnormalities associated with testicular and epididymal alterations were alleviated by D. arborea especially the aqueous extract (500 mg/kg). These outcomes provided evidence of the androgenic properties of D. arborea in diabetic rats, which could be useful for a better management of sexual dysfunctions in diabetic patients.

Cyclophosphamide-induced reproductive toxicity: Beneficial effects of Helichrysum odoratissimum (Asteraceae) in male Wistar rats.

OBJECTIVE: Cyclophosphamide (CP) is commonly used to treat some cancers, but its clinical efficacy is also linked with testicular toxicity. We investigated the effects of aqueous extract (AE) and methanolic extract (ME) of Helichrysum odoratissimum for reducing CP-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. METHODS: In addition to a normal control (group 1), drugs or vehicles were administered orally to seven groups (n = 5) of rats that had already received 4-weeks of pre-treatment with CP (5 mg/[kg·d], per oral administration); group 2 received CP + distilled water (10 mL/[kg·d]); group 3 received CP + 5% tween 80 (10 mL/[kg·d]); group 4 received CP + clomiphene citrate (0.25 mg/[kg·d]); groups 5 and 6 received CP + AE (50 and 100 mg/[kg·d]) and groups 7 and 8 received CP + ME (50 and 100 mg/[kg·d]). Animals were sacrificed on day 15, and body and sexual organ weights, sperm characteristics, testosterone level and testicular histology were evaluated. RESULTS: The CP-treated group showed a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in the body and seminal vesicle weights, testosterone level, sperm count, sperm motility and sperm viability, but elevated (P < 0.001) sperm morphological abnormalities and testicular structure alterations, compared to the control group. Interestingly, these detrimental effects of CP were reversed by treatment with H. odoratissimum extracts. For instance, both extracts and all doses of H. odoratissimum significantly increased the sperm count (P < 0.001), sperm motility (AE, 50 mg/kg, P < 0.05; ME, 50 and 100 mg/kg, P < 0.05) and sperm viability (AE, 50 mg/kg, P < 0.001; ME, 50 and 100 mg/kg, P < 0.001) compared to the CP group. H. odoratissimum also improved plasmatic and intratesticular testosterone levels and prevented histological alterations of the testes. CONCLUSION: H. odoratissimum might be considered as an alternative drug to alleviate/prevent reproductive damage in cancer patients receiving CP chemotherapy.

Sexual stimulant effects of the mixture of Mondia whitei, Dracaena arborea, and Bridelia ferruginea in normal and prediabetic male Wistar rats.

Background We investigated the effects of a polyherbal formulation prepared from the extracts of Mondia whitei (Periplocaceae), Dracaena arborea (Dracaenaceae), and Bridelia ferruginea (Euphorbiaceae) (MDB) on the sexual behavior of normal rats (NR) and prediabetic rats (PR). Methods Male Wistar rats were administered with drinking fructose solution (21%) or tap water for 16 weeks. After induction of prediabetic status, NR (n = 30) and PR (n = 30) were randomly distributed into 10 groups of six animals each and orally treated with distilled water (10 mL/kg), sildenafil citrate (5 mg/kg), or MDB (50, 100, or 500 mg/kg) for 21 days. Sexual behavior parameters per series (S) of ejaculation were evaluated on days 1, 7, 14, and 21. Results Drinking fructose solution (21%) induced prediabetic status in rats, characterized by a significant (p < 0.01) increase in glycemia by 43.41% compared with the control group. MDB improved sexual performances of NR and PR by increasing the mount frequency (MF) and the intromission frequency (IF) as well as the number of rats capable of ejaculating. For instance, the MF and the IF were significantly increased in animals administered with MDB for 7 (50 mg/kg, S1 and S2), 14 (100 mg/kg, S3), or 21 days (100 or 500 mg/kg, S2). This increase was more pronounced on days 7 and 14 in NR and PR treated with sildenafil citrate or MDB extracts, respectively. Conclusions The mixture of MDB improved sexual activity in NR and PR. This result may further justify the traditional use of these plants as sexual performance enhancers.

Aframomum melegueta prevents the ejaculatory complications of propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism in sexually experienced male rats: Evidence from intravaginal and fictive ejaculations.

OBJECTIVE: Hypothyroidism has been claimed to generate sexual dysfunctions such as ejaculatory disorders. Aframomum melegueta is an aphrodisiac plant with pro-ejaculatory properties. We investigated the protective effects of aqueous extract (AE) and methanolic extract (ME) of A. melegueta on the ejaculatory function of hypothyroid male rats. METHODS: Forty sexually experienced male rats were partitioned into 8 groups (5 rats per group) and treated for 28 d as follows: Group 1, Control; Group 2, propylthiouracil (PTU, 10 mg/kg) + distilled water (DW, 10 mL/kg); Group 3, PTU + 5% Tween 80 (10 mL/kg); Group 4, PTU + bromocriptine (6 mg/kg); Group 5, PTU + AE (20 mg/kg); Group 6, PTU + AE (100 mg/kg); Group 7, PTU + ME (20 mg/kg), and Group 8, PTU + ME (100 mg/kg). On days 0, 7, 14 and 28 of treatment, each male rat was paired with primed receptive female for measurement of ejaculatory latency time (ELT) and post-ejaculatory interval (PEI) for 1.5 h. On day 29, each male rat was urethane-anesthetized and the spinal cord was transected. Thereafter, following urethral/penile stimulations and intravenous injection of dopamine, contractions of the bulbospongiosus muscles and the intraseminal pressure were registered. After these recordings, blood was collected through the catheterization of abdominal artery and plasma was used for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin and testosterone assays. RESULTS: PTU-induced hypothyroidism was characterized by a significant elevation (P < 0.001) of plasmatic TSH and prolactin levels, but a decline (P < 0.001) in plasmatic testosterone, compared to untreated group. ELT, PEI, contractions of the bulbospongiosus muscles and the intraseminal pressure were also altered by PTU treatment. On the contrary, A. melegueta extracts elevated testosterone (AE, 100 mg/kg, P < 0.01; ME, 100 mg/kg, P < 0.05) and decreased prolactin (AE, 100 mg/kg, P < 0.05; ME, 20 mg/kg, P < 0.05) levels, compared to corresponding controls. With regard to DW + PTU group, prolactin concentration was lowered (P < 0.05) in rats administered with bromocriptine. Treatment with A. melegueta extracts significantly prevented the lengthening of ELT (P < 0.05) and PEI (P < 0.001). Hypothyroid state also altered the fictive ejaculation by increasing the latency and decreasing the number and frequency of bulbospongiosus muscle contractions. There was also a decrease in the intraseminal pressure. These alterations were significantly (P < 0.05) alleviated in plant extract-treated groups. CONCLUSION: This study highlighted the ejaculatory disturbance of hypothyroidism in male rats and its prevention with A. melegueta extracts.

The aqueous and methanol extracts of Bambusa vulgaris (Poaceae) improve calcium and phosphorus levels, and bone microstructure in ovariectomized model of osteoporosis.

Background Osteoporosis represents the most common metabolic bone disease. Bambusa vulgaris (Poaceae) is a plant with potential antiosteoporotic effects, due to its phytoestrogenic, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of aqueous and methanol extracts of B. vulgaris on osteoporosis in rats. Methods Adult female Wistar rats were randomly divided into normal (n = 6) and ovariectomized (n = 42) groups. Twelve weeks after ovariectomy, animals were treated for 4 weeks as follows: distilled water (10 mL/kg, per os (p.o.)), 17ß-estradiol (10 µg/kg, intraperitoneal (i.p.)), soya oil (1 mL/kg, i.p.), aqueous or methanol extract of B. vulgaris (55 or 110 mg/kg, p.o.). All rats were weighed daily and sacrificed on day 29. Plasma was collected, and the uterus and femur were dissected out, weighed, and used for biochemical and histological measurements. Results In the untreated ovariectomized females, a non-significant (p > 0.05) increase in body weight and a significant decrease (p < 0.001) in the uterine and bone weights were recorded. Ovariectomy also significantly (p < 0.001) lowered the bone calcium and phosphorus concentrations, and deteriorated the microarchitecture of the femur. Interestingly, B. vulgaris extracts significantly (p < 0.001) improved the bone calcium concentration and femur microarchitecture (increase in trabecular bone density, reorganization of the trabecular network, and increase in bone marrow) with estrogenic-like effects compared to 17ß-estradiol. Conclusion These results suggest that B. vulgaris is a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of osteoporosis. The present findings further justify the ethno-medicinal claims of B. vulgaris.

Evaluation of the schistosomicidal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethyl acetate fraction from Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf. Roots on Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver pathology in mice and its phytochemical characterization.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf. (syn.: Heeria pulcherrrima Schweinf.) is a small shrub belonging to the family Anacardiaceae. In Africa, the stem and the leaves are used to treat dystocia, hyperthermia, and conjunctivitis, while the root is used to treat dysmenorrhea and intestinal helminthiasis. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to assess the schistosomicidal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethyl acetate fraction from O. pulcherrima roots methanolic extract (EAOp) on S. mansoni- induced liver pathology in mice. Additionally, its phytochemical composition was elucidated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The phytochemical characterization of EAOp was carried out by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also quantified in the fraction. S. mansoni-infected mice received daily and per os, for 28 days, EAOp at 200 or 400 mg/kg, starting from the 36th day post-infection. Praziquantel was used as reference drug. Uninfected-untreated, uninfected-treated and infected-untreated mice served as controls. At the 65th day post-infection mice were sacrificed and parasitological burden monitored. Transaminases, total bilirubin, and total proteins levels were determined in the plasma. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrites, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were measured in the liver as biomarkers of the oxidative stress. Liver histology and morphometric analysis of granulomas were also conducted. RESULTS: The HPLC-MS analysis data of EAOp revealed the presence of four triterpenes namely oleaterminaloic acid, hydroxyoleanolic acid, moronic acid, and oleanolic acid; a flavonoid dipentoxybenzoic acid and two alkaloids. Its total phenolic content was 76.46 ±â€¯0.01 mg GAE/g and total flavonoid content 6.26 ±â€¯0.31 mg rutin equivalent/g. The reductions of worm burden (48.89 and 75.56%), fecal egg count (77.76 and 69.52%) and egg load in the liver (65.33 and 77.18%) and intestine (78.06 and 84.63%) were significant after EAOp treatment. EAOp at all doses significantly (p < 0.001) reversed the increasing transaminases activities and total bilirubin level induced by the infection. A normalization of total proteins concentration was also recorded. Treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with EAOp at 200 or 400 mg/kg resulted in a significant reduction (p < 0.001) of MDA concentration by 73.20% and 67.78% respectively. The level of nitrites which was reduced by the infection significantly increased after the treatment. EAOp significantly increased by 4.67 and 5.69-fold the CAT activity and by 126.67% the GSH level. Histologically, a significant reduction of the number (66.39 and 57.82%) and the volume (52.25 and 34.81%) of liver inflammatory granulomas was recorded after EAOp treatment at all doses. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the liver pathology in S. mansoni infection is improved by EAOp which disclosed good schistosomicidal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Its effects on the liver dysfunction and the hepatic oxidative stress were comparable to that of praziquantel. These findings justified the traditional use of O. pulcherrima for the treatment of intestinal helminthiasis. This fraction can be considered as a promising source for schistosomicidal agents.