A

Abelmoschus esculentus

NAME: Abelmoschus esculentus

FAMILY: Malvaceae

COMMON NAME: Okra, lady's finger, Gumbo

LOCAL NAME: Ila, okweje, kubewa

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Semi woody and sometimes pigmented with a green or reddish tinges color. It is erect, variable in branching, with many short branches that are attached to thick semi woody stem. Leaf is 10–20 cm long, cordate (heart-shaped), simple and broad, palmately lobed with 5–7 lobes and is dark green in color and resembles a maple leaf. Flower is 4–8 cm in diameter, with five white to yellow petals, often with a red or purple spot at the base of each petal. Fruit Shape and Size is cylindrical capsule, 5–35 cm long, with longitudinal ribs down its length, hispid covered with fine hairs. Fruit Color is yellowish green to green, but is sometimes purple or white.

USEFUL PART(S): Fruit, seeds, Leaves

GENERAL USES: Serves as an aid for pain, aid for complications relative to urinating, moisturizers on the skin!, and it is also used as an aid for safe and comfortable childbirth.

GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION: China, India, Pakistan

WHY IS IT GREEN: Fevers, gonorrhoea, dysentery, catarrhal infections, emollient, antispasmodic, tonic.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

FUN FACT: It is extremely rich in essential nutrients, minerals, vitamins so it is used in several traditional medicines as well as used in many food dishes as well since ancient time

FURTHER READING:

Dehghan Shahreza F. (2015). Hibiscus esculentus and diabetes mellitus. Journal of nephropharmacology, 5(2), 104-105. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5297561/

Huang, C. N., Wang, C. J., Lin, C. L., Lin, H. T., & Peng, C. H. (2017). The nutraceutical benefits of subfractions of Abelmoschus esculentus in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus. PloS one, 12(12), e0189065. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0189065, Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29216237

Khatun, H., Rahman, A., Biswas, M., & Islam, A. U. (2011). Water-soluble Fraction of Abelmoschus esculentus L Interacts with Glucose and Metformin Hydrochloride and Alters Their Absorption Kinetics after Coadministration in Rats. ISRN pharmaceutics, 2011, 260537. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3263724/

Sami, R., Lianzhou, J., Yang, L., Ma, Y., & Jing, J. (2013). Evaluation of fatty acid and amino acid compositions in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) grown in different geographical locations. BioMed research international, 2013, 574283. Retrieved from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2013/574283/

Okra Health Benefits | Abelmoschus esculentus

Sabitha, V., Ramachandran, S., Naveen, K. R., & Panneerselvam, K. (2012). Investigation of in vivo antioxidant property of Abelmoschus esculentus (L) moench. fruit seed and peel powders in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 3(4), 188-93. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3545238/

Wahyuningsih, S., Pramudya, M., Putri, I. P., Winarni, D., Savira, N., & Darmanto, W. (2018). Crude Polysaccharides from Okra Pods (Abelmoschus esculentus) Grown in Indonesia Enhance the Immune Response due to Bacterial Infection. Advances in pharmacological sciences, 2018, 8505383. doi:10.1155/2018/8505383, Retrieved from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/aps/2018/8505383/

Antidesma bunius

Useful Tropical Plants - Ken Fern

Useful Tropical Plants - Ken Fern

NAME: Antidesma bunius       

FAMILY: Phyllanthaceae

COMMON NAMES: Boni fruit, Chinese Laurel fruit

LOCAL NAMES: Buah Buni, Bignay

MORPHORLOGICAL DESCRIPTION:  

Antidesma bunius is a variable plant which may be short and shrubby or tall and erect, with an oval-shaped, berry-like fruit.

USEFUL PART(s): Fruits

GENERAL USES:

  • The fruit may be eaten raw.

  • Fruits are used for making wine, tea, jams and jellies.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION:

Southeast Asia, Northern Australia, Philippine, China, Thailand,  Malaysia

WHY IS IT GREEN?

  • Anemia

  • Heart disorders

  • Snake bites

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Can serve as an ornamental plant.

FUN FACT

The ripe fruit is sweet, but a bitter aftertaste will still be perceived.  

FURTHER READINGS

Belmi, R. M., Giron, J., & Tansengco, M. L. (2014). Antidesma Bunius (Bignay) Fruit Extract As an Organic Pesticide Against Epilachna Spp. Journal of Asian Scientific Research Journal of Asian Scientific Research Special Issue: International Conference on Emerging Trends in Scientific Research Journal of Asian Scientific Research.

El-Tantawy, W. H., Soliman, N. D., El-Naggar, D., & Shafei, A. (2015). Investigation of antidiabetic action of Antidesma bunius extract in type 1 diabetes. Archives of Physiology and Biochemistry. https://doi.org/10.3109/13813455.2015.1038278

Extraction and Stability Test of Anthocyanin from Buni Fruits (Antidesma Bunius L) as an Alternative Natural and Safe Food Colorants. (2013). Extraction and Stability Test of Anthocyanin from Buni Fruits (Antidesma Bunius L) as an Alternative Natural and Safe Food Colorants. https://doi.org/10.14499/jfps

Hamidu, L., Ahmad, A. R., & Najib, A. (2018). Qualitative and quantitative test of total flavonoid buni fruit (Antidesma bunius (L.) Spreng) with UV-Vis spectrophotometry method. Pharmacognosy Journal. https://doi.org/10.5530/pj.2018.1.12

Kassem, M., Hashim, A., & Hassanein, H. (2013). Bioactivity of Antidesma bunius leaves (Euphorbiaceae) and their major phenolic constituents. European Scientific Journal.

Alstonia Congensis

alstonia_congoensis_lokoli_benin_aug_2017_108_7510_a24970.jpg

NAME:  Alstonia congensis

FAMILY: Apocynaceae

COMMON NAMES: Stool wood, Alstonia, Cheese wood, Emien, Songati

LOCAL NAMES: Ahun, Egbu, Egbu-ora

USEFUL PART(s):  Bark

GENERAL USES:

  • The wood is used for little construction, light carpentry work e.g. crates, boxes etc.

  • It is also used in the production of household tools

  • The timber is also traded internationally

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Nigeria

  • DR Congo

  • Angola

  • Central African Republic

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Alstonia congensis medicinal values include:

  • Malaria

  • Astringent

  • Toothache

  • Malaria

  • Gonorrhea

  • Diarrhoea

  • Rheumatism

  • Anthelmintic

  • Leucorrhoea

  • Ulcers

  • Scabies

  • Headache

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental purpose

  • Shade tree

FUNFUL FACT

  • Alstonia congensis is a tall forest tree about 25-30 m high, the stem is cylindrical and it has a rough bark.

 

FURTHER READINGS

Akinnawo, O. O., Anyasor, G. N., & Osilesi, O. (2017). Aqueous fraction of Alstonia boonei de Wild leaves suppressed inflammatory responses in carrageenan and formaldehyde induced arthritic rats. Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, 86, 95–101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2016.11.145

Al-Henhena, N., Ying, R. P. Y., Ismail, S., Najm, W., Khalifa, S. A. M., El-Seedi, H., & Abdulla, M. A. (2014). Chemopreventive efficacy of Andrographis paniculata on azoxymethane-induced aberrant colon crypt foci in vivo. PLoS ONE, 9(11). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0111118

Bagheri, G., Mirzaei, M., Mehrabi, R., & Sharifi-Rad, J. (2016). Cytotoxic and antioxidant activities of alstonia scholaris, alstonia venenata and moringa oleifera plants from India. Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products, 11(3). https://doi.org/10.17795/jjnpp-31129

Chime S.A, Ugwuoke E.C, Onyishi I.V, Brown S.A, O. G. . (2013). and Evaluation of Alstonia boonei Stem Bark Powder Tablets. Indian Journal Pharmaceutics Science, 2(April), 226–230.

Khyade, M. S., Kasote, D. M., & Vaikos, N. P. (2014). Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. and Alstonia macrophylla Wall. ex G. Don: A comparative review on traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2014.01.025

Li, C. J., Chen, S., Sun, C., Zhang, L., Shi, X., & Wu, S. J. (2017). Cytotoxic monoterpenoid indole alkaloids from Alstonia yunnanensis Diels. Fitoterapia, 117, 79–83. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2016.12.011

Omoregie, E., Oriakhi, K., Oikeh, E., Okugbo, O., & Akpobire, D. (2014). Comparative study of phenolic content and antioxidant activity of leaf extracts of Alstonia boonei and Eupatorium odoratum. Nigerian Journal of Basic and Applied Science, 22(3&4), 91–97. https://doi.org/10.4314/njbas.v22i3.7

Pan, L., Terrazas, C., Acuña, U. M., Ninh, T. N., Chai, H., Carcache de Blanco, E. J., … Kinghorn, A. D. (2014). Bioactive indole alkaloids isolated from Alstonia angustifolia. Phytochemistry Letters, 10, liv–lix. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytol.2014.06.010

Ragasa, C. Y., Lim, K. F., Shen, C. C., & Raga, D. D. (2015). Hypoglycemic Potential of Triterpenes from Alstonia scholaris. Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal, 49(1), 30–33. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11094-015-1217-9

Thomas, S. K., Kunjumon, M., George, R. E., & Iyer, T. V. (2015). A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY OF ALSTONIA VENENATA R. BR. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research IJPSR, 6(4), 1741–1745. https://doi.org/10.13040/IJPSR.0975-8232.6(4).1741-45

 

Alstonia Boonei

boonei.jpg

NAME:  Alstonia boonei

FAMILY: Apocynaceae

COMMON NAMES: Stool wood, Pattern wood, Cheese wood

LOCAL NAMES: Awun, Ahun, Eghu, Akpi, Onyame dua

USEFUL PART(s):  Root, bark, leaves

GENERAL USES:

  • The wood is use for construction and carving

  • The plant produces good timber which can be traded internationally

  • The wood is used for fuel as firewood

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Ethiopia

  • Tanzania

  • Egypt

  • Cameroon

  • Central African Republic

  • Ghana

  • Cote D’Ivoire

  • Nigeria

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Alstonia boonei medicinal values include:

  • Breast development

  • Filaria worms

  • Anthelmintics

  • Antidote

  • Malaria fever

  • Yellow fever

  • Anti-periodic

  • Arthritis

  • Antimalarial

  • Aphrodisiac

  • Dysmenorrhoea

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • It is a good shade tree for crops

FUNFUL FACT

  • Alstonia boonei is a tall, deciduous, evergreen forest tree which height can reach 145ft in damp areas

  • The leaves are  oblanceolate, and in whorls at nodes and can be propagated by seeds

  • The latex from is toxic

FURTHER READINGS

Agbedahunsi, J. M., Adepiti, A. O., Adedini, A. A., Akinsomisoye, A., & Adepitan, O. (2016). Antimalarial Properties of Morinda lucida and Alstonia boonei on Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine and Curcuma longa on Quinine in Mice. Journal of Herbs, Spices and Medicinal Plants, 22(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1080/10496475.2014.999151

Akinnawo, O. O., Anyasor, G. N., & Osilesi, O. (2017). Aqueous fraction of Alstonia boonei de Wild leaves suppressed inflammatory responses in carrageenan and formaldehyde induced arthritic rats. Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, 86, 95–101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2016.11.145

Chime S.A, Ugwuoke E.C, Onyishi I.V, Brown S.A, O. G. . (2013). and Evaluation of Alstonia boonei Stem Bark Powder Tablets. Indian Journal Pharmaceutics Science, 2(April), 226–230.

Erhunse, N., Oriakhi, K., Orhue, N. E. J., & Omoregie, E. S. (2016). Comparative study on phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity and acute toxicity of extracts of Alstonia boonei de Wild and Anthocleista djalonensis. Journal, 13(1), 14–24. https://doi.org/10.4314/jpb.v13i1.3

Idowu, E. T., Ajaegbu, H. C. N., Omotayo, A. I., Aina, O. O., & Otubanjo, O. A. (2015). In vivo anti-plasmodial activities and toxic impacts of lime extract of a combination of Picralima nitida, Alstonia boonei and Gongronema latifolium in mice infected with Chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei. African Health Sciences, 15(4), 1262–1270. https://doi.org/10.4314/ahs.v15i4.27

Lucien Nkono Ya Nkono, B., Dongmo Sokeng, S., Djomeni Paul Désiré, D., & Kamtchouing, P. (2014). Antihyperglycemic and Antioxydant Properties of Alstonia boonei De Wild. (Apocynaceae) Stem Bark Aqueous Extract in Dexamethasone-Induced Hyperglycemic Rats. International Journal of Diabetes Research, 3(3), 27–35. https://doi.org/10.5923/j.diabetes.20140303.01

Ogueke, C. C., Uwaleke, J., Owuamanam, C. I., & Okolue, B. (2014). Antimicrobial activities of Alstonia boonei stem bark, a Nigerian traditional medicinal plant. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 4(S2), S957–S962. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2222-1808(14)60766-0

Omoregie, E., Oriakhi, K., Oikeh, E., Okugbo, O., & Akpobire, D. (2014). Comparative study of phenolic content and antioxidant activity of leaf extracts of Alstonia boonei and Eupatorium odoratum. Nigerian Journal of Basic and Applied Science, 22(3&4), 91–97. https://doi.org/10.4314/njbas.v22i3.7

Sarpong, L. M., Sarpong, F. M., & Amponsah, I. K. (2016). Antiplasmodial activity of the leaves and stem bark of Carapa procera and Alstonia boonei. Der Pharmacia Lettre, 8(3), 116–122.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera.jpg

NAME:  Aloe vera

FAMILY: Liliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Barbados Aloe, wonder plant

LOCAL NAMES: Barbados Aloe

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves juice

GENERAL USES:

  • Aloe vera is use in flavouring food

  • It is use in cosmetics in creams and lotions

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • China

  • Japan

  •  India

  • Greece

  • Egypt,

  • Mexico

  • Morocco

  • Mauritania

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Aloe vera medicinal values include:

  • Purgative

  • Guineaworms

  • Hair care

  • Skin diseases

  • Constipation

  • Wound

  • Diabetes

  • Amenorrhoea

  • Breast cancer

  • Depression and learning

  • Immune booster

  • Teeth and Gum treatment

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental purpose

FUNFUL FACT

  • Aloe vera  is an evergreen, succulent, short-stemmed plant and form a packed rosette

FURTHER READINGS

Ahlawat, K. S., & Khatkar, B. S. (2011). Processing, food applications and safety of aloe vera products: A review. Journal of Food Science and Technology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-011-0229-z

Basmatker, G., Jais, N., & Daud, F. (2011). Aloe vera : A valuable multifunctional cosmetic ingredient. International Journal of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, 1(3), 338–341.

Bharat, C. R., & Krishna, G. D. (2017). GC-MS analysis of young leaves of allophylus cobbe (L.) raeusch. and allophylus serratus (Roxb.) Kurz. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 51(3), 472–479. https://doi.org/10.5530/ijper.51.3.75

Chavan, R. B., & Gaikwad, D. K. (2016a). the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Properties of Allophylus Species Used in Traditional Medicine: a Review. Www.wjpps.com World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(11), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.20959/wjpps201611-8039

Chavan, R. B., & Gaikwad, D. K. (2016b). the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Properties of Allophylus Species Used in Traditional Medicine: a Review. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(11), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.20959/wjpps201611-8039

González, V. V., Solís, S. M., & Ferrucci, M. S. (2014). Anatomía reproductiva en flores estaminadas y pistiladas de Allophylus edulis (Sapindaceae). Boletin de La Sociedad Argentina de Botanica, 49(2), 207–216.

Manigandan, T., Elumalai, M., Cholan, P., Kaur, R., & Mangaiyarkarasi, S. (2015). Benefits of Aloe vera in dentistry. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, 7(5), 257. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-7406.155943

Mukherjee, P. K., Nema, N. K., Maity, N., Mukherjee, K., & Harwansh, R. K. (2014). Phytochemical and therapeutic profile of Aloe vera. Journal of Natural Remedies, 14(1), 1–26. Retrieved from http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-84902965077&partnerID=tZOtx3y1

Oladosu, I. A., Balogun, S. O., & Liu, Z. Q. (2015). Chemical constituents of Allophylus africanus. Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 13(2), 0133–0141. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1875-5364(15)60017-6

Radha, M., & Laxmipriya, N. (2015). Evaluation of biological properties and clinical effectiveness of Aloe vera: A systematic review. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 5, 21–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.006

Rahman, S., Carter, P., & Bhattarai, N. (2017). Aloe Vera for Tissue Engineering Applications. Journal of Functional Biomaterials, 8(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb8010006

Sánchez-Machado, D. I., López-Cervantes, J., Sendón, R., & Sanches-Silva, A. (2017). Aloe vera : Ancient knowledge with new frontiers. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 61, 94–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2016.12.005

Sujatha, G., Senthil Kumar, G., Muruganandan, J., & Srinivasa Prasad, T. (2014). Aloe vera in dentistry. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. https://doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2014/8382.4983

Aloe Barteri

Aloe barteri.jpg

NAME:  Aloe barteri

FAMILY: Liliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Aloe

LOCAL NAMES: Eti erin, Ida-egun, Ida-orisa, Moda, bangio fauru, sogoba hu

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves

GENERAL USES:

  • Aloe barteri  is majorly a medicinal plant

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Senegal

  • Ghana

  • Nigeria

  • Malawi

  • Zambia

  • Togo

  • Ivory coast

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Aloe barteri medicinal values include:

  • Ringworm

  • Anthelmintics

  • Aphrodisiac

  • Amenorrhoea

  • Cough

  • Skin infections

  • Astringent

  • Antitumour

  • Pile

  • Fruits for preventing snake bite

  • Malaria

  • Rheumatism

 

FUNFUL FACT

  • Aloe barteri is a plant with fleshy leaves organized in a rosette and it is 3ft high.

  • The plant has about 12 branches with bulbs that have different colours such as green-yellow, dull red, red.

FURTHER READINGS

Bharat, C. R., & Krishna, G. D. (2017). GC-MS analysis of young leaves of allophylus cobbe (L.) raeusch. and allophylus serratus (Roxb.) Kurz. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 51(3), 472–479. https://doi.org/10.5530/ijper.51.3.75

Chavan, R. B., & Gaikwad, D. K. (2016a). the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Properties of Allophylus Species Used in Traditional Medicine: a Review. Www.wjpps.com World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(11), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.20959/wjpps201611-8039

Chavan, R. B., & Gaikwad, D. K. (2016b). the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Properties of Allophylus Species Used in Traditional Medicine: a Review. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(11), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.20959/wjpps201611-8039

González, V. V., Solís, S. M., & Ferrucci, M. S. (2014). Anatomía reproductiva en flores estaminadas y pistiladas de Allophylus edulis (Sapindaceae). Boletin de La Sociedad Argentina de Botanica, 49(2), 207–216.

Mukherjee, P. K., Nema, N. K., Maity, N., Mukherjee, K., & Harwansh, R. K. (2014). Phytochemical and therapeutic profile of Aloe vera. Journal of Natural Remedies, 14(1), 1–26. Retrieved from http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-84902965077&partnerID=tZOtx3y1

Oladosu, I. A., Balogun, S. O., & Liu, Z. Q. (2015). Chemical constituents of Allophylus africanus. Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 13(2), 0133–0141. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1875-5364(15)60017-6

Radha, M. H., & Laxmipriya, N. P. (2015). Evaluation of biological properties and clinical effectiveness of Aloe vera: A systematic review. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.006

Rahman, S., Carter, P., & Bhattarai, N. (2017). Aloe Vera for Tissue Engineering Applications. Journal of Functional Biomaterials, 8(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb8010006

Sánchez-Machado, D. I., López-Cervantes, J., Sendón, R., & Sanches-Silva, A. (2017). Aloe vera : Ancient knowledge with new frontiers. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 61, 94–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2016.12.005

Sofidiya, M. O., Imeh, E., Ezeani, C., Aigbe, F. R., & Akindele, A. J. (2014). Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanolic extract of Alafia barteri. Brazilian Journal of Pharmacognosy, 24(3), 348–354. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjp.2014.07.013

Sujatha, G., Senthil Kumar, G., Muruganandan, J., & Srinivasa Prasad, T. (2014). Aloe vera in dentistry. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. https://doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2014/8382.4983

Ye, C.-L., Dai, D.-H., & Hu, W.-L. (2013). Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the essential oil from onion (Allium cepa L.). Food Control, 30(1), 48–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodcont.2012.07.033

Allophylus Africanus

allophylus_africanus_wamccl_dsc_1170_78_5dcb57.jpg

NAME:  Allophylus africanus 

FAMILY: Sapindaceae

COMMON NAMES: African false currant, African allophylus

LOCAL NAMES: Eekan-ehoro, Alarto, Odu-oko, banotoren, gono gonio

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, Roots, Bark

GENERAL USES:

  • The fruit of the plant is edible and serves as food

  • The wood serves as fuel and lighting

  • It is use in making household or domestic tools e.g. handles, toy etc.

  • Twig can be use as chew-sticks. 

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Madagascar

  • Nigeria

  • Zimbabwe

  • Senegal

  • Cameroon

  • Tanzania

  • Mozambique

  • South Africa

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Allophylus africanus medicinal values include:

  • Diarrhea

  • Pile

  • Toothache

  • Anthelmintics

  • Venereal diseases

  • Cough

  • Sedatives

  • Painkiller

  • Arthritis

  • Rheumatism

  • Eye treatment

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental purpose

FUNFUL FACT

  • Allophylus africanus is a shrubby plant about 10m tall whose flower is white, cream, yellow or green in colour and fruit is red and fleshy.

FURTHER READINGS

Bharat, C. R., & Krishna, G. D. (2017). GC-MS analysis of young leaves of allophylus cobbe (L.) raeusch. and allophylus serratus (Roxb.) Kurz. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 51(3), 472–479. https://doi.org/10.5530/ijper.51.3.75

Chavan, R. B., & Gaikwad, D. K. (2016a). the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Properties of Allophylus Species Used in Traditional Medicine: a Review. Www.wjpps.com World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(11), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.20959/wjpps201611-8039

Chavan, R. B., & Gaikwad, D. K. (2016b). the Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Properties of Allophylus Species Used in Traditional Medicine: a Review. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(11), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.20959/wjpps201611-8039

González, V. V., Solís, S. M., & Ferrucci, M. S. (2014). Anatomía reproductiva en flores estaminadas y pistiladas de Allophylus edulis (Sapindaceae). Boletin de La Sociedad Argentina de Botanica, 49(2), 207–216.

Oladosu, I. A., Balogun, S. O., & Liu, Z. Q. (2015). Chemical constituents of Allophylus africanus. Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 13(2), 0133–0141. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1875-5364(15)60017-6

Allium sativum

allium-sativum_bloem-garlic.jpg

NAME:  Allium sativum

FAMILY: Liliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Garlic

LOCAL NAMES: Ayo, Ayuu

USEFUL PART(s):  Bulb

GENERAL USES:

  • Garlic is use in seasoning food and it can be eaten raw

  • It is used in fish and meat preservation

  • Liquid substance from the garlic can be use as adhesive on broken glass

  • It is use for pest control

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Egypt

  • China

  • Nigeria

  • France

  • Italy

  • Vietnam

  • Indian

  • Pakistan

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Allium sativum medicinal values include:

  • Fever

  • Coughs

  • Asthma

  • Dilated bronchi

  • Flatulence

  • Anthelmintic

  • Ringworm

  • Antibiotic

  • Diuretic

  • Emmenagogue

  • Antimicrobials,

  • Blood tonic

  • Malaria

  • Cold

  • Cardiovascular diseases

FUNFUL FACT

  • Garlic is bulbous plant which have sword shape leaves joined to the subterranean stem

  • Garlic was used in preventing microbial infection known as gangrene during World Wars I and II

FURTHER READINGS

Chakravarthi, P. V., Arivuchelvan, A., & Jagadeeswaran, A. (2016). Immunomodulatory activity of Allium Sativum against newcastle disease in native poultry birds. Indian Veterinary Journal, 93(5), 17–19.

Dash, P., Yadav, S., & Sahoo, P. K. (2014). Immunoadjuvant effect of garlic (Allium sativum)–mineral oil suspension on immunity and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila infection in rohu, Labeo rohita. International Aquatic Research, 6(3), 167–173. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40071-014-0072-8

Farahpour, M. R., Hesaraki, S., Faraji, D., Zeinalpour, R., & Aghaei, M. (2017). Hydroethanolic Allium sativum extract accelerates excision wound healing: Evidence for roles of mast-cell infiltration and intracytoplasmic carbohydrate ratio. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 53(1). https://doi.org/10.1590/s2175-97902017000115079

Fonseca, G. M., Passos, T. C., Ninahuaman, M. F. M. L., Caroci, A. S., & Costa, L. S. (2014). Avaliação da atividade antimicrobiana do alho (allium sativum liliaceae) e de seu extrato aquoso. Revista Brasileira de Plantas Medicinais, 16(3), 679–684. https://doi.org/10.1590/1983-084X/12_150

Gbolade, A. (2012). Ethnobotanical study of plants used in treating hypertension in Edo State of Nigeria. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 144(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.07.018

Hosseini, A., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2015). A review on the effects of Allium sativum (Garlic) in metabolic syndrome. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40618-015-0313-8

Kuete, V. (2017). Allium sativum. Medicinal Spices and Vegetables from Africa. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-809286-6.00015-7

Martins, N., Petropoulos, S., & Ferreira, I. C. F. R. (2016). Chemical composition and bioactive compounds of garlic (Allium sativum L.) as affected by pre- and post-harvest conditions: A review. Food Chemistry, 211, 41–50. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.05.029

Products, C. on H. M. (2016). European Union herbal monograph Allium sativum L., bulbus. European Medical Agency, (July), 1–9.

Reiter, J., Levina, N., Van Der Linden, M., Gruhlke, M., Martin, C., & Slusarenko, A. J. (2017). Diallylthiosulfinate (Allicin), a volatile antimicrobial from garlic (Allium sativum), kills human lung pathogenic bacteria, including MDR strains, as a vapor. Molecules, 22(10). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules22101711

Allium Cepa

Allium_cepa.jpg

NAME:  Allium cepa

FAMILY: Liliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Onion, bulb onion, common onion

LOCAL NAMES: Alubosa, Albasa, Yabase, Albasa gudaji

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, Bulb

GENERAL USES:

  • Onions serves as a food, cooked as vegetables or as ingredient for delicacies 

  • Onions are usually use in education to teach the use of a microscope for viewing  cell structure

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • China

  • Egypt

  • Nigeria

  • England

  • India

  • Senegal

  • Mali

  • Burkina Faso

  • Ghana 

  • Kenya

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Allium cepa medicinal values include:

  • Cough

  • Diuretic

  • Anthelmintics

  • Weak erection

  • Anti-tumour

  • boils

  • stings

  • Rubefacient

  • Throat infection

  • Headache

  • Asthma

FUNFUL FACT

  • Onions are biennial plants which has bluish-green leaves and its bulb at the base is encircle by fleshy modified leaves

  • They have a strong odour when cut and contain certain chemical substances which irritate the eyes.

  • Onions are toxic to some animals e.g. dog, cat, goat etc.

FURTHER READINGS

El-Aasr, M., Fujiwara, Y., Takeya, M., Ikeda, T., Tsukamoto, S., Ono, M., … Nohara, T. (2010). Onionin a from allium cepa inhibits macrophage activation. Journal of Natural Products, 73(7), 1306–1308. https://doi.org/10.1021/np100105u

Khanna, N., & Sharma, S. (2013). Allium Cepa Root Chromosomal Aberration Assay: A Review. Indian J. Pharm. Biol. Res, 1(3), 105–119. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2008.06.004

Muñoz, D. M., & Guerrero, N. (2013). Allium test para evaluar el efecto citotóxico y genotóxico de extractos naturales en células meristemáticas de Allium cepa. Memorias, 11(19), 83–86.

Ozakca, D. U., & Silah, H. (2013). Genotoxicity effects of Flusilazole on the somatic cells of Allium cepa. Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology, 107(1), 38–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pestbp.2013.05.001

Özkara, A., Akyıl, D., Eren, Y., & Erdoğmuş, S. F. (2015). Potential cytotoxic effect of Anilofos by using Allium cepa assay. Cytotechnology, 67(5), 783–791. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10616-014-9716-1

Pobłocka-Olech, L., Głód, D., Zebrowska, M. E., Sznitowska, M., & Krauze-Baranowska, M. (2016). TLC determination of flavonoids from different cultivars of Allium cepa and Allium ascalonicum. Acta Pharmaceutica, 66(4), 543–554. https://doi.org/10.1515/acph-2016-0038

Qin, R., Ning, C., Björn, L. O., & Li, S. (2016). Proteomic analysis of Allium cepa var. agrogarum L. roots under copper stress. Plant and Soil, 401(1–2), 197–212. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11104-015-2741-9

Sari, M. U., Hartono, R., & Hakim, L. (2013). Sifat Antirayap Ekstrak Kulit Bawang Merah (Allium cepa). Jurnal USU, 139–145.

Setyadjit, & Sukasih, E. (2015). Effect of Addition of Filler on the Production of Shallot (Allium Cepa Var. Ascalonicum L.) Powder with Drum Dryer. Procedia Food Science, 3, 396–408. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profoo.2015.01.044

Surono, A. S. (2013). Antibakteri Ekstrak Etanol Umbi Lapis Bawang Merah (Allium cepa L.) Terhadap Pertumbuhan Staphylococcus aureus dan Escherichia coli. Jurnal Ilmiah Mahasiswa Universitas Surabaya, 2(1), 1–15.

Ye, C.-L., Dai, D.-H., & Hu, W.-L. (2013). Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the essential oil from onion (Allium cepa L.). Food Control, 30(1), 48–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodcont.2012.07.033

Allium Ascalonicum

Allium Ascalonicum.jpg

NAME:  Allium ascalonicum

FAMILY: Liliaceae

COMMON NAMES: Shallot, Spring onion

LOCAL NAMES: Alubosa-elewe, Albasa maigo, kaanda, praan

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, Bulb

GENERAL USES:

  • Allium ascalonicum  is majorly use in cooking  in spicing foods and as an ingredient

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Nigeria

  • USA

  • China

  • India

  • Malaysia

  • Thailand

  • Ghana

  • Indonesia

  • Vietnam

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Allium ascalonicum medicinal values include:

  • Convulsion

  • Dysentery

  • Sore throat

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

FUNFUL FACT

  • Shallot has its name from Ashkelon, an old Philistine city

  • It’s  in clusters of short prostrate shoot and often use because of their pleasant taste and flavour but it has a strong smell

  • Shallot is a type of onion but the flavour is not sharp or strong compared to onions

FURTHER READINGS

Acheampong, A., Badu, M., & Agyemang, A. Y. (2016). Comparative Total Phenolics and Antioxidant Activities of Xanthosoma colocasia , Solanum torvum and Allium ascalonicum L . International Journal of Chemical and Biomolecular Science, 2(4), 73–79.

Jamilah, & Novita, E. (2016). Pengaruh Pupuk Organik Cair Crocober Terhadap Tanaman Bawang Merah (Allium ascalonicum L.). Jurnal Ipteks Terapan, 2(2), 67–73. https://doi.org/10.22216/jit.2014.v8i2.424

Mariana Putri, Rosita Sipayung, M. S. (2012). PERTUMBUHAN DAN PRODUKSI BAWANG MERAH (Allium ascalonicum L.) DENGAN PEMBERIAN VERMIKOMPOS DAN URINE DOMBA. Jurnal Online Agroekoteknologi, 1(1), 125 & 137.

Pandurangan, V., Amanulla, S. S. D., & Ramanathan, K. (2016). Anticancer efficacy of dry and fresh Allium ascalonicum (shallot) against HepG2 cell line. National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 6(3), 196–199. https://doi.org/10.5455/njppp.2016.6.08012016112

Pobłocka-Olech, L., Głód, D., Zebrowska, M. E., Sznitowska, M., & Krauze-Baranowska, M. (2016). TLC determination of flavonoids from different cultivars of Allium cepa and Allium ascalonicum. Acta Pharmaceutica, 66(4), 543–554. https://doi.org/10.1515/acph-2016-0038

Raeisi, S., Sharifi-Rad, M., Quek, S. Y., Shabanpour, B., & Sharifi-Rad, J. (2016). Evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) fruit and ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague) seed extracts in semi-fried coated rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillets for shelf-life extension. LWT - Food Science and Technology, 65, 112–121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lwt.2015.07.064

Rosliani, R., Hidayat, I. M., Sulastrini, I., & Hilman, Y. (2016). Dissemination of technology for shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) seed production using true shallot seed (TSS) in Indonesia. In Acta Horticulturae (Vol. 1143, pp. 345–352). https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2016.1143.49

Setyadjit, & Sukasih, E. (2015). Effect of Addition of Filler on the Production of Shallot (Allium Cepa Var. Ascalonicum L.) Powder with Drum Dryer. Procedia Food Science, 3, 396–408. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profoo.2015.01.044

Tubić, L., Anačkov, G., Milojević, J., Ghalawenji, N., Mitić, N., Igić, R., & Zdravković-Korać, S. (2014). High variability in the tissue culture response of root-tips of Allium ascalonicum individuals and optimization of the regeneration procedure. Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture, 118(1), 101–110. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11240-014-0465-9

Zonyane, S., Van Vuuren, S. F., & Makunga, N. P. (2013). Antimicrobial interactions of Khoi-San poly-herbal remedies with emphasis on the combination; Agathosma crenulata, Dodonaea viscosa and Eucalyptus globulus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 148(1), 144–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2013.04.003

Allanblackia Floribunda

1024_Allanblackia-floribunda-seedling-P1280086.jpg

NAME:  Allanblackia floribunda 

FAMILY: Guttiferae

COMMON NAMES: tallow tree, vegetable tallow

LOCAL NAMES: Orogbo erin, Egba, Nkpukpotiri, anane, bohwe

USEFUL PART(s):  Root, leaves, stem-bark, fruit

GENERAL USES:

  • The wood is use in light constructions, furniture e.g. door, window frames etc.

  • It can also be use as chew-sticks, candlesticks

  • The wood can be use as firewood

  • The seed produce fat which is used in preparing food

 

Geographic Distribution

  • Nigeria

  • Togo

  • Congo

  • Uganda

  • Cameroon

  • Ghana

  • Sierra Leone

  • Gabon

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Allanblackia floribunda medicinal values include:

  • Malaria

  • Dysentery

  • Toothache

  • Chicken pox

  • Small pox

  • Measles

  • Hypertension

  • Pain relief

  • Toothache

  • Asthma

FUNFUL FACT

  • The fruits from the tree are big and much

  • It is an evergreen plant and occur in rainforest areas

FURTHER READINGS

Akpanika, G. A., Winters, A., Wilson, T., Ayoola, G. A., Adepoju-Bello, A. A., & Hauck, B. (2017). Polyphenols from Allanblackia floribunda seeds: Identification, quantification and antioxidant activity. Food Chemistry, 222, 35–42. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.12.002

Azebaze, A. G. B., Teinkela, J. E. M., Nguemfo, E. L., Valentin, A., Dongmo, A. B., & Vardamides, J. C. (2015). Antiplasmodial activity of some phenolic compounds from cameroonians allanblackia. African Health Sciences, 15(3), 835–840. https://doi.org/10.4314/ahs.v15i3.18

Boudjeko, T., Megnekou, R., Woguia, A. L., Kegne, F. M., Ngomoyogoli, J. E. K., Tchapoum, C. D. N., & Koum, O. (2015). Antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties of polysaccharides from Allanblackia floribunda Oliv stem bark and Chromolaena odorata (L.) King and H.E. Robins leaves. BMC Research Notes, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-015-1703-x

Brusotti, G., Papetti, A., Serra, M., Temporini, C., Marini, E., Orlandini, S., … Kamtchouing, P. (2016). Allanblackia floribunda Oliv.: An aphrodisiac plant with vasorelaxant properties. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 192, 480–485. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2016.09.033

Fobane, J. L., Ndam, E. N., & Mbolo, M. (2014). Population structure and natural regeneration of Allanblackia floribunda Oliv. (Clusiaceae) in a forest concession of East Cameroon. Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences (JBES). Retrieved from http://www.innspub.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/JBES-Vol4No2-p403-410.pdf

Loumouamou, B. W., Binaki, A. F., & Silou, T. (2014). Oleaginous character and profiles in fatty acids and in triacylglyc??rols of the seeds of Allanblackia floribunda Oliv. of Congo. Advance Journal of Food Science and Technology, 6(3), 308–315.

Sanda, A. K., Miegueu, P., Bilanda, D. C., Ngassam, M. F. N., Watcho, P., Djomeni, P. D. D., & Kamtchouing, P. (2013). Ejaculatory activities of Allanblackia floribunda stem bark in spinal male rats. Pharmaceutical Biology, 51(8), 1014–1020. https://doi.org/10.3109/13880209.2013.774029

Tsobeng, A., Ofori, D., Tchoundjeu, Z., Asaah, E., & Van Damme, P. (2016). Improving growth of stockplants and rooting ability of leafy stem cuttings of Allanblackia floribunda Oliver (Clusiaceae) using different NPK fertilizers and periods of application. New Forests, 47(2), 179–194. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11056-015-9517-1

Allamanda cathartica

Allamanda-cathartica.jpg

NAME:  Allamanda cathartica

FAMILY: Apocynaceae

COMMON NAMES: Yellow allamanda, Angel's trumpet, Butter-cup, Golden trumpet, Guinea herb

LOCAL NAMES: Ododo-alamanda, canario, ruan huang chan

USEFUL PART(s):  Roots

GENERAL USES:

  • The shrub serves as  wind-breaker

  • It can also be use for demarcation and support

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Brazil

  • Sri Lanka

  • Australia

  • China

  • USA

  • Fiji

  • Honduras

  • Costa Rica

  • Nicaragua

  • Puerto Rico

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Allamanda cathartica medicinal values include:

  • Antimicrobials

  • Malaria

  • Dysentery

  • Cathartic.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental plant

  • Environmental weed in some areas

FACT

  • The parts of the plant are toxic to both farm animal and man and contains milky latex

  • It is a woody vine whose flower is yellow and has a trumpet shape

  • It is propagated by seed and stem cutting

FURTHER READINGS

Bonomini, T. J., Holzmann, I., Thiesen, L. C., Fratoni, E., Muller, A. F. F., Lucinda-Silva, R. M., … Santin, J. R. (2017). Neuropharmacological and acute toxicological evaluation of ethanolic extract of Allamanda cathartica L. flowers and plumieride. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 91, 9–19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2017.10.005

Chaveerach, A., Tanee, T., Patarapadungkit, N., Khamwachirapithak, P., & Sudmoon, R. (2016). Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of Allamanda and Plumeria species. ScienceAsia, 42(6), 375–381. https://doi.org/10.2306/scienceasia1513-1874.2016.42.375

Conrad, O. A., Dike, I. P., & Agbara, U. (2013). In vivo antioxidant assessment of two antimalarial plants-Allamamda cathartica and Bixa orellana. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 3(5), 388–394. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(13)60082-9

Karunakaran, G., Jagathambal, M., Gusev, A., Kolesnikov, E., Mandal, A. R., & Kuznetsov, D. (2016). Allamanda cathartica flower’s aqueous extract-mediated green synthesis of silver nanoparticles with excellent antioxidant and antibacterial potential for biomedical application. MRS Communications, 6(1), 41–46. https://doi.org/10.1557/mrc.2016.2

Okoduwa, S. I. R., Mbora, L. O., Adu, M. E., & Adeyi, A. A. (2015a). Comparative Analysis of the Properties of Acid-Base Indicator of Rose ( Rosa setigera ), Allamanda ( Allamanda cathartica ), and Hibiscus ( Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ) Flowers. Biochemistry Research International, 2015, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/381721

Okoduwa, S. I. R., Mbora, L. O., Adu, M. E., & Adeyi, A. A. (2015b). Comparative analysis of the properties of acid-base indicator of rose (Rosa setigera), Allamanda (Allamanda cathartica), and hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) flowers. Biochemistry Research International, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/381721

Rajamanickam, K., & Sudha, S. S. (2013). In-vitro antimicrobial activity and in-vivo toxicity of Moringa oleifera and Allamanda cathartica against multiple drug resistant clinical pathogens. International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences, 4(1).

Alchornea Laxiflora

Alchornea laxiflora.jpg

NAME:  Alchornea laxiflora

FAMILY: Euphorbiaceae

COMMON NAMES: Three-veined bead string, Lowveld bead-string

LOCAL NAMES: Pepe, Ijan, uwenuwen, ububo, longoso

USEFUL PART(s):  Stem, roots, leaves

GENERAL USES:

  •  Leaves are used as wrapping and keeping material from destroying

  • Tender branches are used as chewing sticks for cleaning the teeth

  • Stems can be used as fence poles and also in making household and domestic items

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Nigeria

  • Ethiopia

  • Congo

  • Zimbabwe

  • Mozambique

  • South Africa

  • Swaziland.

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Alchornea laxiflora medicinal values include:

  • Hernia

  • venereal diseases

  • Emmenagogue

  • Ring worm

  • Inflammatory diseases

  • Malaria

  • Pain relief

FUNFUL FACT

  • Alchornea laxiflora is a deciduous, upright small tree about 7–10 m tall and common in evergreen forests.

  • The flowers are unisexual and the fruits are even, dark green, brown, slightly hairy and has 3 seeds

FURTHER READINGS

Akinpelu, D. A., Abioye, E. O., Aiyegoro, O. A., Akinpelu, O. F., & Okoh, A. I. (2015). Evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal properties of alchornea laxiflora (Benth.) Pax. & Hoffman. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/684839

Bafor, E. E., Eyohan, S. E., Omoruyi, O., Elvis-Offiah, U. B., Ayinde, B., Eze, G. I., … Braimoh, K. P. (2015). Preliminary endocrinological, histological and haematological investigation of Alchornea laxiflora (Euphorbiaceae) leaf extract effects on the ovary, uterus and cervix of mouse models. J Sci Pract Pharm December, 2(1), 55–63.

Kingsley, O., Esosa, U. S., Georgina, E. O., Sunday, J. J., & Spencer, N. C. O. (2013). Possible Reversal of Sodium Arsenate-induced Liver Toxicity by Hexane Leaf Extract of Alchornea laxiflora. Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, 5(1), 3–8.

Okokon, J. E., Augustine, N. B., & Mohanakrishnan, D. (2017). Antimalarial, antiplasmodial and analgesic activities of root extract of Alchornea laxiflora. Pharmaceutical Biology, 55(1), 1022–1031. https://doi.org/10.1080/13880209.2017.1285947

Olajire, A. A., Adeyeye, G. O., & Yusuf, R. A. (2017). Alchornea laxiflora Bark Extract Assisted Green Synthesis of Platinum Nanoparticles for Oxidative Desulphurization of Model Oil. Journal of Cluster Science, 28(3), 1565–1578. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10876-017-1167-3

Sandjo, L. P., Poumale, H. M. P., Noudou, X. S., Ntede, H. N., Shiono, Y., Ngadjui, B. T., … Mbafor, J. T. (2011). Erratum: Two new fatty acid derivatives from the stem bark of Alchornea laxiflora (Euphorbiaceae) (JAOCS, Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society DOI: 10.1007/s11746-011-1770-7). JAOCS, Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11746-011-1890-0

Tchinda, C. F., Voukeng, I. K., Beng, V. P., & Kuete, V. (2017). Antibacterial activities of the methanol extracts of Albizia adianthifolia, Alchornea laxiflora, Laportea ovalifolia and three other Cameroonian plants against multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 24(4), 950–955. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.01.033

Alchornea Cordifolia

Giloy.png

NAME:  Alchornea cordifolia

FAMILY: Euphorbiaceae

COMMON NAMES: Christmas bush

LOCAL NAMES: Ipa, esinsin, eepa, bambami, ububo, bulora, garagasaki

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, stem, bark, twig

GENERAL USES:

  • The part of the tree is use in making dyes, inks and stains

  • The wood is use in furniture and for house construction

  • The leaves can be cooked and serves as food

  • The wood serves as fuel

 

Geographic Distribution

  • Ghana

  • Togo

  • Nigeria

  • Cameroon

  •  sierra leone

  • Liberia

  • Mali

  • Ivory coast

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Alchornea cordifolia medicinal values include:

  • Fever

  • Rheumatism

  • antimicrobials

  • Diuretic

  • Purgative

  • Toothache

  • Cough

  • Sore

  • Gonorrhea

  • Insomnia

  • Diarrhea

  • Haemorrhoids

  • Antiaborifacients

  • Venereal diseases

  • Epilepsy

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Improve soil fertility

  • Shelter tree for crops

FUNFUL FACT

  • The mode of propagation is by seed or stem cuttings

  • It is a medicinal plant which scatter easily and usually found in secondary forest

FURTHER READINGS

Adeneye, A. A. dewale, Oreagba, A. I. brahim, Ishola, I. O. gunbayode, & Kalejaiye, H. A. deola. (2014). Evaluation of the anti-arthritic activity of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia in rats. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines : AJTCAM / African Networks on Ethnomedicines, 11(2), 402–410.

Adeshina, G. O., Kunle, O. F., Onaolapo, J. A., Ehinmidu, J. O., & Odama, L. E. (2012). Antimicrobial Activity of the Aqueous and Ethyl Acetate Sub-Fractions of Alchornea cordifolia Leaf. European Journal of Medicinal Plants, 2(1), 31–41.

Ajibade, T. O., & Olayemi, F. O. (2015). Reproductive and toxic effects of methanol extract of Alchornea cordifolia leaf in male rats. Andrologia, 47(9), 1034–1040. https://doi.org/10.1111/and.12374

Boniface, P. K., Ferreira, S. B., & Kaiser, C. R. (2016). Recent trends in phytochemistry, ethnobotany and pharmacological significance of Alchornea cordifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Muell. Arg. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2016.06.021

Djimeli, M. N., Fodouop, S. P. C., Njateng, G. S. S., Fokunang, C., Tala, D. S., Kengni, F., & Gatsing, D. (2017). Antibacterial activities and toxicological study of the aqueous extract from leaves of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae). BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-017-1854-5

Kouakou, K., Schepetkin, I. A., Yapi, A., Kirpotina, L. N., Jutila, M. A., & Quinn, M. T. (2013). Immunomodulatory activity of polysaccharides isolated from Alchornea cordifolia. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 146(1), 232–242. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.12.037

Mambe, F. T., Voukeng, I. K., Beng, V. P., & Kuete, V. (2016). Antibacterial activities of methanol extracts from Alchornea cordifolia and four other Cameroonian plants against MDR phenotypes. Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences, 11(2), 121–127. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtumed.2015.12.001

Ngaha, N. M. I., Dahlan, I., Massoma, L. D., Mandengue, S. H., & Yusuf, A. A. (2016). Comparative Proximate Analysis of Leaves and Bark of Alchornea Cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae). Journal of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, 5(1), 84–90. https://doi.org/10.15640/jaes.v5n1a9

Okoye, F. B. C., Osadebe, P. O., Nworu, C. S., Okoye, N. N., Omeje, E. O., & Esimone, C. O. (2011). Topical anti-inflammatory constituents of lipophilic leaf fractions of Alchornea floribunda and Alchornea cordifolia. Natural Product Research, 25(20), 1941–1949. https://doi.org/10.1080/14786419.2010.512272

Osadebe, P. O., Okoye, F. B. C., Uzor, P. F., Nnamani, N. R., Adiele, I. E., & Obiano, N. C. (2012). Phytochemical analysis, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Alchornea cordifolia methanol leaf extract on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic damage in rats. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 5(4), 289–293. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1995-7645(12)60041-8

Albizia Zygia

Albizia_zygia_PBirnb_CAN02038_100351.JPG

NAME:  Albizia zygia

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: Okuro, Atanza, Siris

LOCAL NAMES: Ayinre-weere, kurmii

USEFUL PART(s):  Bark

GENERAL USES:

  • It is used for carving, flooring and furniture

  • It can be used as firewood and charcoal is produce

  • The pulp from the wood is use to produce paper

  • Tender leaves are eaten which are cooked as a vegetable

 

Geographic Distribution

  • Senegal

  • Kenya

  • Angola

  • Tanzania

  • Ghana

  • Nigeria

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Albizia zygia medicinal values include:

  • Arthritis

  • Sprain

  • Aphrodisiac

  • Purgative

  • Toothache

  • Vermifuge

  • Sores

  • Bronchial diseases

  • Fever

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental tree

  • Shade tree

  • Fix nitrogen in the soil

FUNFUL FACT

  • Albizia zygia is a rapid-growing, medium-sized deciduous tree with a spreading crown

  • It grows well in loamy or clayey soil

FURTHER READINGS

Abotsi, W. K. M., Lamptey, S. B., Afrane, S., Boakye-Gyasi, E., Umoh, R. U., & Woode, E. (2017). An evaluation of the anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic effects of hydroethanol leaf extract of albizia zygia in animal models. Pharmaceutical Biology, 55(1), 338–348. https://doi.org/10.1080/13880209.2016.1262434

Amoateng, P., Osei-Safo, D., Kukuia, K. K. E., Adjei, S., Akure, O. A., Agbemelo-Tsomafo, C., … Agyeman-Badu, K. Y. (2017). Psychotropic Effects of an Alcoholic Extract from the Leaves of Albizia zygia (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae). Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2017. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/9297808

Eddy, N. O., Abechi, S. E., Ameh, P., & Ebenso, E. E. (2013). GCMS, FTIR, SEM, physiochemical and rheological studies on Albizia zygia gum. Walailak Journal of Science and Technology, 10(3), 247–265.

KOUASSI, K. H., N’GUESSAN, K., & and Kassi Justin N’DJA. (2013). Influence of the dynamics of Albizia adianthifolia and Albizia zygia on the dynamics of other woody forest. International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies, 3(1), 68–74. Retrieved from http://www.issr-journals.org/ijias/abstract.php?article=IJIAS-13-067-33

Lamptey, S. B., & Abotsi, W. K. M. (2017). Albizia zygia (DC.) Macbr. hydroethanol root extract exerts anti-oedemic and in vivo antioxidant activities in animal models. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 7(4), 199–205. https://doi.org/10.7324/JAPS.2017.70429

Ndjakou Lenta, B., Vonthron-Sénécheau, C., Fongang Soh, R., Tantangmo, F., Ngouela, S., Kaiser, M., … Weniger, B. (2007). In vitro antiprotozoal activities and cytotoxicity of some selected Cameroonian medicinal plants. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 111(1), 8–12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2006.10.036

Noté, O. P., Simo, L., Mbing, J. N., Guillaume, D., Aouazou, S. A., Muller, C. D., … Lobstein, A. (2016). Two new triterpenoid saponins from the roots of Albizia zygia (DC.) J.F. Macbr. Phytochemistry Letters. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytol.2016.09.010

O, U. J., O, O. L., & Igbinaduwa P O. (2017). Albizia zygia (D.C.) Macbr (Fabaceae): A Comparative Investigation of Phytochemical Composition, Proximate Analysis and Anti-Seizure Properties of Methanol Extracts of Its Leaves and Stem-Bark. Nigerian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Applied Science Research, 6(2), 76–80.

Ushida, K., Fujita, S., & Ohashi, G. (2006). Nutritional significance of the selective ingestion of Albizia zygia gum exudate by wild chimpanzees in Bossou, Guinea. American Journal of Primatology, 68(2), 143–151. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajp.20212

Albizia Lebbeck

albizialebbeck33.jpg

NAME:  Albizia lebbeck

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: Silk flower, Lebbeck, flea tree, frywood, koko, Woman's tongue tree, Siris

LOCAL NAMES: Igbagbo, Shak shak tree

USEFUL PART(s):  Root, stem bark, leaves

GENERAL USES:

  • The leaves serves as fodder for farm animal

  • The wood is use as timber for constructions

  • The wood also serves as firewood for fuel

  • The bark can be use for soap

Geographic Distribution

  • New Guinea

  • Northern Australia

  • Nigeria

  • Ghana

  • India

WHY IS IT GREEN?

 Albizia lebbeck medicinal values include:

  • Astringent

  • Mouthwash

  • River-blindness

  • Gonorrhoea

  • Cough

  • Flu

  • Lung problems

  • Pectoral problems

  • Inflammations

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Shade tree

  • Improves the soil

  • Controls erosion

FUNFUL FACT 

  • It has the name ‘Shak Shak Tree’ because of the sound the seeds make in the pod.

  • A conspicuous deciduous tree with a spreading crown with height reaching 15 - 20 metres

FURTHER READINGS

Babu, N. P., Pandikumar, P., & Ignacimuthu, S. (2009). Anti-inflammatory activity of Albizia lebbeck Benth., an ethnomedicinal plant, in acute and chronic animal models of inflammation. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 125(2), 356–360. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2009.02.041

Bobby, M. N., Wesely, E. G., & Johnson, M. (2012). High performance thin layer chromatography profile studies on the alkaloids of Albizia lebbeck. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2(1 SUPPL.). https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(12)60119-1

Egito, A. S., Girardet, J. M., Laguna, L. E., Poirson, C., Mollé, D., Miclo, L., … Gaillard, J. L. (2007). Milk-clotting activity of enzyme extracts from sunflower and albizia seeds and specific hydrolysis of bovine κ-casein. International Dairy Journal, 17(7), 816–825. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.idairyj.2006.09.012

Perveen, S., & Anis, M. (2015). Physiological and biochemical parameters influencing ex vitro establishment of the in vitro regenerants of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth.: an important soil reclaiming plantation tree. Agroforestry Systems, 89(4), 721–733. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10457-015-9809-7

Perveen, S., Varshney, A., Anis, M., & Aref, I. M. (2011). Influence of cytokinins, basal media and pH on adventitious shoot regeneration from excised root cultures of Albizia lebbeck. Journal of Forestry Research, 22(1), 47–52. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11676-011-0124-5

Rajesh, B., Saumya, D., Dharmajit, P., & Pavani, M. (2014). Formulation design and optimization of herbal gel containing albizia lebbeck bark extract. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 6(5), 111–114.

Seyydnejad, S. M., Niknejad, M., Darabpoor, I., & Motamedi, H. (2010). Antibacterial activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Callistemon citrinus and Albizia lebbeck. American Journal of Applied Sciences, 7(1), 13–16. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajassp.2010.13.16

Subramonia Pillai, N., Kannan, P. S., Vettivel, S. C., & Suresh, S. (2017). Optimization of transesterification of biodiesel using green catalyst derived from Albizia Lebbeck Pods by mixture design. Renewable Energy, 104, 185–196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2016.12.035

Venkatesh, P., Mukherjee, P. K., Kumar, N. S., Bandyopadhyay, A., Fukui, H., Mizuguchi, H., & Islam, N. (2010). Anti-allergic activity of standardized extract of Albizia lebbeck with reference to catechin as a phytomarker. Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology, 32(2), 272–276. https://doi.org/10.3109/08923970903305481

Zia-Ul-Haq, M., Ahmad, S., Qayum, M., & Ercişli, S. (2013). Compositional studies and antioxidant potential of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. pods and seeds. Turkish Journal of Biology, 37(1), 25–32. https://doi.org/10.3906/biy-1204-38

Albizia Ferruginea

Albizia ferruginea.jpg

NAME:  Albizia  ferruginea

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: False thorn albizia

LOCAL NAMES: Ayinre ogo, Ngu, kurmii, Iatandza, Awiemfosamina

USEFUL PART(s):  Root, stem bark, leaves

GENERAL USES:

  • It is used for construction, furniture and other tools such as toys, crates etc.

  • The wood is used as firewood for charcoal production

  • The leaves can be use to wash clothes

  • The leaves of the plant are eaten by farm animal

Geographic Distribution

  • Ghana

  • Liberia

  • Gabon

  • Senegal

  • Uganda

  • Angola

  • Nigeria

  • Sierra Leone

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Albizia  ferruginea  medicinal values include:

  • Dysentery

  • Constipation

  • Fish poison

  • Bronchial infections

  • Fever

  • Sores

  • Pimples

  • Vermifuge

  • Jaundice

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental tree

  • Shade tree

  • Soil improver

FUNFUL FACT

  • Large deciduous tree which height is up to 45–50m

  • The Leaves alternate and has rusty hairy

  • The flowers are bisexual and regular

FURTHER READINGS

Abubakar, M., & Majinda, R. (2016). GC-MS Analysis and Preliminary Antimicrobial Activity of Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach) and Pterocarpus angolensis (DC). Medicines, 3(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines3010003

Ameh, P. O. (2015). A Comparative Study of the Inhibitory Effect of Gum Exudates from Khaya senegalensis and Albizia ferruginea on the Corrosion of Mild Steel in Hydrochloric Acid Medium. International Journal of Metals, 2015, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/824873

Girma, Y., & Wolka, K. (2012). Effects of Albizia gummifera, Millettia ferruginea and Cordia africana leaf litter on the germination of Coffea arabica L. seed. International Journal of Agricultural Research, 7(6), 315–323. https://doi.org/10.3923/ijar.2012.315.323

Govender, R., Phulukdaree, A., Gengan, R. M., Anand, K., & Chuturgoon, A. A. (2013). Silver nanoparticles of Albizia adianthifolia: The induction of apoptosis in human lung carcinoma cell line. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-3155-11-5

Kamga, J., Sandjo, L. P., Böke-Sarikahya, N., Kirmizigül, S., Kuete, V., & Ngadjui, B. T. (2014). Albiziaflavane A: A new flavane from Albizia ferruginea (Mimosoideae). Natural Product Research, 28(19), 1574–1578. https://doi.org/10.1080/14786419.2014.927466

Kokila, K., Priyadharshini, S. D., & Sujatha, V. (2013). Phytopharmacological properties of Albizia species: A review. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Kumar, D., Kumar, S., Kohli, S., Arya, R., & Gupta, J. (2011). Antidiabetic activity of methanolic bark extract of Albizia odoratissima Benth. in alloxan induced diabetic albino mice. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, 4(11), 900–903. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1995-7645(11)60215-0

Albizia Adianthifolia

ALB.jpg

NAME:  Albizia adianthifolia

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: Flatcrown albizia, West African albizia, rough-bark flat-crown

LOCAL NAMES: Banabana Ayinreta, Igbabo, Afema, Avu, Tsintsiyar, Kurmii, mchani mbao, mchani mbawa

USEFUL PART(s):  Bark

GENERAL USES:

  • The wood of this plant is used for building and carving some items e.g. images, spoons, tools handles, toys, furniture etc.

  • The wood also serve as firewood

  • The viscous substance from the bark of the plant is used in improving beauty

  • In some areas, the leaves and seeds are eaten as vegetables and to make sauce

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Senegal

  • Kenya

  • Angola

  • South Africa

  • Swaziland

  • Madagascar

  • Nigeria

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Albizia adianthifolia medicinal values include:

  • Gonorrhoea

  • Night blindness

  • Piles

  • Purgative

  • Skin problems(Scabies)

  • Anthelmintics

  • Cough

  • Toothache

  • Fever

  • Irregular menstruation

  • Stomachache

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Soil improvement

  • Shade for some crops

FUNFUL FACT

  • Albizia adianthifolia is a deciduous, conspicuous tree with a stretching, flat crown of green leaves with flowers

  • It is an ornamental tree with many seeds and grows easily in sandy soil

 

FURTHER READINGS

Abubakar, M., & Majinda, R. (2016). GC-MS Analysis and Preliminary Antimicrobial Activity of Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach) and Pterocarpus angolensis (DC). Medicines, 3(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines3010003

Beppe, G. J., Dongmo, A. B., Foyet, H. S., Dimo, T., Mihasan, M., & Hritcu, L. (2015). The aqueous extract of Albizia adianthifolia leaves attenuates 6-hydroxydopamine-induced anxiety, depression and oxidative stress in rat amygdala. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-015-0912-0

Beppe, G. J., Dongmo, A. B., Foyet, H. S., Tsabang, N., Olteanu, Z., Cioanca, O., … Hritcu, L. (2014). Memory-enhancing activities of the aqueous extract of Albizia adianthifolia leaves in the 6-hydroxydopamine-lesion rodent model of Parkinson’s disease. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 14. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-14-142

Gengan, R. M., Anand, K., Phulukdaree, A., & Chuturgoon, A. (2013). A549 lung cell line activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles using Albizia adianthifolia leaf. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, 105, 87–91. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfb.2012.12.044

Govender, R., Phulukdaree, A., Gengan, R. M., Anand, K., & Chuturgoon, A. A. (2013). Silver nanoparticles of Albizia adianthifolia: the induction of apoptosis in human lung carcinoma cell line. J Nanobiotechnology (Vol. 11). https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-3155-11-5

Govender, R., Phulukdaree, A., Gengan, R. M., Anand, K., & Chuturgoon, A. A. (2013). Silver nanoparticles of Albizia adianthifolia: The induction of apoptosis in human lung carcinoma cell line. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-3155-11-5

KOUASSI, K. H., N’GUESSAN, K., & and Kassi Justin N’DJA. (2013). Influence of the dynamics of Albizia adianthifolia and Albizia zygia on the dynamics of other woody forest. International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies, 3(1), 68–74. Retrieved from http://www.issr-journals.org/ijias/abstract.php?article=IJIAS-13-067-33

Sonibare, M. A., Ayoola, I. O., & Elufioye, T. O. (2017). Antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities of leaf extract and fractions of Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach) W.F. Wright. Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, 28(2), 143–148. https://doi.org/10.1515/jbcpp-2015-0054

Tchinda, C. F., Voukeng, I. K., Beng, V. P., & Kuete, V. (2017). Antibacterial activities of the methanol extracts of Albizia adianthifolia, Alchornea laxiflora, Laportea ovalifolia and three other Cameroonian plants against multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 24(4), 950–955. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.01.033

Alafia Barteri

alafia barteri.jpg

NAME: Alafia barteri

FAMILY: Apocynaceae

COMMON NAMES: Alafia chewing stick, guinea-fowl's crest

LOCAL NAMES: Agbari etu, ota, momunimo, ndambi

USEFUL PART(s):  Roots, leaves

GENERAL USES:

  • The root of the plant can be use as chew-sticks

  • The fibre from the stems of the plant serves as tying material for roofs etc.

 

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Guinea Bissau

  • Cameroon

  • Congo

  • Sierra Leone

  • Gabon

  • Liberia

  • Nigeria

  • Togo

  • Benin

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Alafia barteri medicinal values include:

  • Sickle cell anaemia

  • Rheumatic pains

  • Tooth-ache

  • Eye infections

  • Fever

  • Malaria

  • Antifungal

FUNFUL FACT

  • Alafia barteri is an active, climbing shrub which is said to be toxic

FURTHER READINGS

Aiyelaagbe, O. O., Negi, A. S., Hamid, A. A., Luqman, S., Kumar, S. B., & Kaneez, F. (2015). Chemical Constituents from Alafia Barteri Oliv. Leaves with Cytotoxic Activity. Journal of the Chinese Chemical Society, 62(9), 751–755. https://doi.org/10.1002/jccs.201500213

Colegate, S. M., Gardner, D. R., Betz, J. M., Fischer, O. W., Liede-Schumann, S., & Boppré, M. (2016). Pro-toxic 1,2-Dehydropyrrolizidine Alkaloid Esters, Including Unprecedented 10-Membered Macrocyclic Diesters, in the Medicinally-used Alafia cf. caudata and Amphineurion marginatum (Apocynaceae: Apocynoideae: Nerieae and Apocyneae). Phytochemical Analysis, 257–276. https://doi.org/10.1002/pca.2624

Hamid, A. A., Aiyelaagbe, O. O., Kaneez, F., Luqman, S., & Negi, A. S. (2017). Correction to: Isolation, characterization and antiproliferative evaluation of constituents from stem extracts of Alafia barteri Oliv. Hook. F. Medicinal Chemistry Research, p. 1. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00044-017-2116-2

Hamid, A. A., Aiyelaagbe, O. O., Negi, A. S., Luqman, S., & Kaneez, F. (2017). New Triterpenoids from the Leaves of Alafia barteri. Chemistry of Natural Compounds, 53(6), 1075–1079. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10600-017-2204-z

Ishola, I. O., Oreagba, I. A., OkekeOgochukwu, N., & Olayemi, S. O. (2015). Analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions of Alafia barteri: Involvement of monoaminergic, nitrergic and opioidergic pathway. Nigerian Quarterly Journal of Hospital Medicine, 25(2).

Lasisi, A. A., Olayiwola, M. A., Balogun, S. A., Akinloye, O. A., & Ojo, D. A. (2016). Phytochemical composition, cytotoxicity and in vitro antiplasmodial activity of fractions from Alafia barteri olive (Hook F. Icon)-Apocynaceae. Journal of Saudi Chemical Society, 20(1), 2–6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jscs.2012.05.003

Sofidiya, M. O., Imeh, E., Ezeani, C., Aigbe, F. R., & Akindele, A. J. (2014). Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanolic extract of Alafia barteri. Brazilian Journal of Pharmacognosy, 24(3), 348–354. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjp.2014.07.013

Wieringa, J. J. (2011). Novitates Gabonenses 70. the advantages of a specimen database: Alafia velutina is a synonym of Farquharia elliptica (Apocynaceae). Blumea: Journal of Plant Taxonomy and Plant Geography, 56(3), 240. https://doi.org/10.3767/000651911X609237

Ageratum Conyzoides

ag cony.jpg

NAME: Ageratum conyzoides

FAMILY: Compositae

COMMON NAMES: Goat weed, Billygoat-weed, chick weed, whiteweed

LOCAL NAMES: Imi-esu, Ula ujula, Urata, Ahenhen, pig feces, macela francesa

USEFUL PART(s):  Whole plant, leaves, root

GENERAL USES:

  • The plant can be use as an insecticide and nematicide

  • Ornamental purpose

Geographic Distribution

  • Brazil

  • USA

  • Mexico

  • South Africa

  • Uganda

  • Vietnam

  • Nigeria

  • Ghana

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Ageratum conyzoides medicinal values include:

  • Wounds

  • Ulcers

  • craw-craw

  • Digestive disturbance

  • Diarrhoea

  • Emetic

  • Skin diseases

  • Antipyretic

  • Gonorrhoea

  • Sleeping sickness

  • Eye wash

  • Antidysenteric

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • The plant is an environmental weed

FUNFUL FACT

  • The plant has an offensive smell, compared to that of a male goat, hence the common name billy goat weed.

  • The plant is an erect, branching with shallow, fibrous roots and the stems become strong and woody as they grow.

FURTHER READINGS

Amadi, B. A., Duru, M. K. C., & Agomuo, E. N. (2012). Chemical profilesof leaf, stem, root and flower of Ageratum conyzoides. Asian Journal of Plant Science and Research, 2(4), 428–432.

Bosi, C. F., Rosa, D. W., Grougnet, R., Lemonakis, N., Halabalaki, M., Skaltsounis, A. L., & Biavatti, M. W. (2013). Pyrrolizidine alkaloids in medicinal tea of ageratum conyzoides. Brazilian Journal of Pharmacognosy, 23(3), 425–432. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0102-695X2013005000028

Leke, W. N., Brown, J. K., Ligthart, M. E., Sattar, N., Njualem, D. K., & Kvarnheden, A. (2012). Ageratum conyzoides: A host to a unique begomovirus disease complex in Cameroon. Virus Research, 163(1), 229–237. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2011.09.039

Mesa-Vanegas, A. M., Zapata-Uribe, S., Arana, L. M., Zapata, I. C., Monsalve, Z., & Rojano, B. (2015). Actividad antioxidante de extractos de diferente polaridad de Ageratum conyzoides L. Boletin Latinoamericano Y Del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales Y Aromaticas, 14(1), 1–10.

Nasrin, F. (2013). Antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of Ageratum conyzoides stems. International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, 2(2), 33–37.

Okunade, A. L. (2002). Ageratum conyzoides L.(Asteraceae). Fitoterapia, 73, 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2009.10.017

Shekhar, T. C., & Anju, G. (2014). Antioxidant Activity by DPPH Radical Scavenging Method of Ageratum conyzoides Linn. Leaves. American Journal of Ethnomedicine, 1(4), 244–249. Retrieved from http://www.ajethno.com

Singh, S. B., Devi, W. R., Marina,  a, Devi, W. I., Swapana, N., & Singh, C. B. (2013). Ethnobotany , phytochemistry and pharmacology of Ageratum conyzoides Linn ( Asteraceae ). Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 7(8), 371–385. https://doi.org/10.5897/JMPR12.897

Verma, P. K., Sultana, M., Raina, R., Prawez, S., Pandita, S., Jamwal, N., & Mir, A. H. (2013). Hepatoprotective effects of Ageratum conyzoides L. on biochemical indices induced by acetaminophen toxicity in Wistar rats. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 3(4SUPPL.1). https://doi.org/10.7324/JAPS.2013.34.S4