Pharmacological potentials of medicago sativa l

a promising option for covid-19 prevention and cure

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Pharmacological potentials of medicago sativa l
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a promising option for covid-19 prevention and cure

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Nwaehiri Uloma L., Akwukwaegbu Peter I. and Ibe Ijeoma J.


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Pharmacological potentials of medicago sativa l

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20225-23896


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

1. Introduction

The outbreak of Covid-19 in 2019, declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020, has prompted extensive research for effective treatments. As conventional medicine seeks solutions, the exploration of medicinal plants has gained interest, particularly for their potential roles in prevention and therapy. The study conducted by Nwaehiri et al. investigated the bioactive compounds from Medicago sativa L. (commonly known as Alfalfa) to evaluate its potential therapeutic benefits against Covid-19.

2. Phytochemical Composition of Medicago sativa L.

One of the significant findings of the study is the comprehensive analysis of the phytochemical components in Medicago sativa L., including the presence of various active compounds. The plant contains alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, and phenols. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds, in particular, are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to address inflammation and virus-related diseases. The study revealed profitable quantities of flavonoids, saponins, and phenols in the leaf, stem, and root of the plant, with certain variations in their concentrations, demonstrating the plant's potential medicinal value.

3. Antioxidant Potential

The research also highlighted the antioxidant potential of Medicago sativa L., showcasing its ability to mitigate oxidative stress through its radical scavenging activity. This antioxidant activity was measured using various assays, including ABTS, DPPH, superoxide, and nitric oxide radical scavenging. The results indicated that antioxidant activity increased with concentration, reinforcing the idea that the presence of bioactive phytochemicals may offer protective mechanisms against oxidative damage, which is crucial for maintaining overall health, especially in the context of viral infections like Covid-19.

4. Therapeutic Effects and Bioactive Compounds

The therapeutic effects of Medicago sativa L. extracts were categorized, displaying properties such as antipyretic, expectorant, cough-suppressing, and immunoregulatory activities. Notably, compounds such as glycyrrhizin and 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects, suggesting their potential in combatting viral infections. The extraction revealed a rich presence of bioactive substances, including β-sitosterol, glycyrrhizin, and licochalcone, which were identified as particularly effective against various viral pathogens, further supporting the feasibility of formulating herbal supplements targeting Covid-19 disease.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the presence of bioactive compounds in Medicago sativa L. not only highlights its immunomodulatory potential but also underscores its role as a promising candidate for herbal formulations aimed at treating or preventing Covid-19. Although preliminary results are encouraging, future evidence-based research is necessary to solidify these findings and understand the therapeutic implications of Medicago sativa L. in treating Covid-19 effectively. The ongoing exploration of traditional medicine and botanical resources could lead to new avenues for combating current and emerging infectious diseases.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the focus of the study on Medicago sativa L.?

The study investigates the phytochemical components and therapeutic potentials of Medicago sativa L., aiming to evaluate its effectiveness as a herbal supplement for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.

What bioactive compounds are found in Medicago sativa L.?

Medicago sativa L. contains bioactive compounds such as β-sitosterol, glycyrrhizin, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, quercetin, and licochalcone, which are associated with various therapeutic effects.

What therapeutic effects does Medicago sativa L. exhibit?

The plant shows antipyretic, expectorant, cough-suppressing, and immunomodulatory effects, making it ideal for herbal formulations targeting COVID-19.

How was the research on Medicago sativa L. conducted?

Fresh leaf, stem, and root samples were collected, then screened and analyzed for their phytochemicals and antioxidant properties using standard analytical methods.

What antioxidants were tested in this study?

The study assessed the antioxidant potential using methods for ABTS, DPPH, superoxide, nitric oxide radical scavenging, and FRAP, with varying results based on concentration.

Can Medicago sativa L. be considered for COVID-19 treatment?

Yes, the presence of bioactive compounds signals the potential of Medicago sativa L. as a novel immunomodulatory drug against COVID-19, warranting further research.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmacological potentials of medicago sativa l”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds in plants that contribute to their flavor, color, and disease resistance. They have gained attention for their potential health benefits, including anticancer, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding phytochemicals can aid in developing herbal medicines for various health outcomes.

2) Viru:
This term likely alludes to 'virus,' which are microscopic infectious agents that can cause various diseases in humans and animals. Understanding the nature of viruses is crucial in developing vaccines and antiviral therapies, particularly in the context of global health issues like the COVID-19 pandemic.

3) Disease:
Diseases represent a range of pathological conditions affecting bodily functions. Research into medicinal plants aims to discover new treatments for such diseases, including viral infections like COVID-19, by identifying and analyzing the bioactive compounds that may help in their prevention and management.

4) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids refer to various subclasses within a larger category of phytonutrients, primarily responsible for the color and flavor of many plants. Their health-promoting properties have been well-documented, as they help fight oxidative stress and inflammation, making them crucial in the fields of medicine and nutrition.

5) Table:
In this context, 'table' refers to organized data presentation, summarizing findings related to phytochemical content, therapeutic effects, or any other relevant study metrics. Tables help in easily communicating complex information, enabling researchers and healthcare professionals to quickly analyze and reference crucial data.

6) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses a broad field involving the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of illnesses. It includes conventional approaches and traditional practices such as herbal and alternative therapies. The exploration of plant-based medicines, like those derived from Medicago sativa, plays a vital role in holistic health management.

7) Activity:
Activity, particularly in pharmacological terms, refers to the effect a compound has on biological systems, such as its efficacy in inhibiting viral replication or reducing inflammation. Understanding the activity of phytochemicals is essential for evaluating their potential therapeutic applications in treating diseases, including viral infections.

8) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological studies assess how drugs and other substances interact with biological systems. This discipline is critical for determining the efficacy and safety of therapies, such as herbal extracts of Medicago sativa, which may offer alternative treatments for conditions like COVID-19 through their bioactive constituents.

9) Resolving:
Resolving in a medical context refers to the process through which conditions, symptoms, or issues are addressed and alleviated. In the study of herbal medicine, resolving can pertain to how extracts may help manage inflammation or other health-related issues prevalent in diseases such as COVID-19.

10) Water:
Water acts as a vital solvent for chemical reactions in biological systems. In herbal studies, it is often used as an extraction medium to draw out phytochemicals from plant materials. Understanding the solubility of the components is paramount for effective extraction and therapeutic applications.

11) Study (Studying):
A study involves systematic investigation and analysis to gain knowledge about a particular subject or phenomenon. In the context of this research, the study focused on assessing the therapeutic potentials of Medicago sativa, and its bioactive compounds, contributing to medicinal knowledge in combating diseases.

12) Drug:
Drugs are substances that have a pharmacological effect on the body and can treat or prevent disease. The exploration of plant-derived drugs, such as those from Medicago sativa, is fundamental in expanding therapeutic options against diseases, including viral infections like COVID-19.

13) Discussion:
The discussion section in research typically interprets findings, placing them within a broader scientific context. It connects empirical data with existing literature to highlight significance and implications, offering insights into how various plant compounds might be used therapeutically against viruses like COVID-19.

14) Substance:
A substance is a particular kind of matter with uniform properties that can undergo physical and chemical changes. In the context of the research, it could refer to active compounds found in herbs like Medicago sativa which may contribute to their health benefits and therapeutic effects.

15) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding and information acquired through study and experience. In the context of medicinal plants, knowledge of their bioactive compounds and therapeutic effects is essential for developing effective treatments and improving our approach to health and disease management.

16) Science (Scientific):
Sciences involve systematic studies that seek to understand natural phenomena through observation and experimentation. Disciplines such as biology, pharmacology, and chemistry intersect in herbal medicine, supporting the exploration of natural compounds for health benefits and therapeutic applications.

17) Family:
In biological classification, 'family' is a rank that groups organisms sharing common characteristics. In botany, it refers to the classification of plants, such as Leguminosae for Medicago sativa, underscoring the significance of genetic relationships in understanding the properties and uses of various plants.

18) Cancer:
Cancer is the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells in the body that can lead to serious health complications. Research into phytochemicals such as flavonoids and other compounds found in plants like Medicago sativa contributes to drug development aiming to prevent or treat cancer effectively.

19) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli that can lead to symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain. It is a critical factor in many diseases. Herbal compounds known for anti-inflammatory properties are of interest in developing treatments for conditions exacerbated by inflammation.

20) Epidemic:
An epidemic refers to a significant increase in disease occurrences in a particular population or region. The emergence of COVID-19 as an epidemic has led to heightened research interest in potential treatments, including those derived from herbal sources like Medicago sativa.

21) Village:
In this context, 'village' likely refers to the specific community where plant samples were collected for the study. The local knowledge of herbal uses and the availability of plants like Medicago sativa highlight the significance of ethnobotany in medicinal research.

22) Heating:
Heating refers to the application of thermal energy, which can influence the extraction of active compounds from plants. Certain preparation methods may utilize heat as part of the extraction process, affecting the efficacy and availability of bioactive substances in herbal formulations.

23) Animal:
An animal is a living organism that can serve as an experimental model in scientific research. Animal studies can provide insights into disease mechanisms and the therapeutic effects of plant extracts, aiding in the discovery of novel treatments for human diseases.

24) Nature:
Nature encapsulates the physical world, including living organisms and their environments. In scientific research, an appreciation for nature underpins the study of biodiversity and the search for natural compounds in plants that can be harnessed for medicinal applications.

25) Medium:
Medium refers to the agent or substance through which active compounds are extracted from plants. In the context of herbal studies, the choice of medium (like water or specific solvents) can significantly impact the extraction efficiency and the compounds' bioavailability.

26) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom of infection and inflammation, representing the body's natural defense mechanism. Herbal remedies with antipyretic properties can help manage fever, making the study of plant compounds relevant in developing treatments for conditions like COVID-19.

27) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid that delivers nutrients and oxygen to cells while removing waste products. Understanding how diseases affect blood dynamics is crucial in medical research, particularly when investigating the therapeutic effects of various herbal compounds on cardiovascular and immune health.

28) Cina:
China is significant in the study of traditional medicine and herbal remedies, with a rich history of using plants for health purposes. The identification of viruses and diseases, including COVID-19, has opened avenues for research into traditional Chinese herbal treatments.

29) Alam (Alaṁ):
Alam refers to a contributor or a study author that may present research findings relevant to herbal medicine's potential in addressing health issues. Recognition of diverse research contributions is key in advancing knowledge and applications of medicinal plants in modern therapies.

30) Diet:
Diet encompasses the habitual food and drink choices made by individuals. Understanding how diet can affect health and disease outcomes, particularly in relation to antioxidant-rich foods like plants, supports the exploration of natural compounds for their health benefits.

31) Rich (Rch):
Rich describes the abundance of specific bioactive compounds in plant materials. The richness of phytochemicals in Medicago sativa highlights its potential benefits for health, emphasizing the importance of studying plants with high active component concentrations for therapeutic applications.

32) Pur:
Poor often refers to a lack of resources or quality, which can pertain to health status, nutrition, or access to medical care. Recognizing how herbal medicine can improve health outcomes in impoverished populations broadens the scope of research on accessible treatment options.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Pharmacological potentials of medicago sativa l’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Therapeutic effect, Phytochemical screening, Free radical scavenging activity, Clinical guidelines, COVID-19 Pandemic, Secondary metabolite, Phytochemical components, Antioxidant potential, Traditional medicinal use, Bioactive compound, Public Health Emergency, Immunomodulatory drug.

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