Anthelmintic activity of Tephrosia purpurea root extract in earthworms.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Biological evaluation of anthelminitic activity of root extract of tephrosia purpurea in indian adult earthworm
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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Sachin S. Thorbole, Harshada A. Gaikwad, Pallavi V. Bhokare, Anand P. Khadke, Anuradha A. Khadke and Tejashwi S. Buwa
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Biological evaluation of anthelminitic activity of root extract of tephrosia purpurea in indian adult earthworm
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20176-8476
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the anthelmintic activity of the roots of Tephrosia purpurea, a perennial herb widely distributed across tropical regions. This plant is traditionally utilized for a variety of medicinal purposes, including its diuretic, laxative, and tonic effects, and its potential for treating conditions such as bronchitis and ulcers. The research focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of both aqueous and methanolic extracts of Tephrosia purpurea's roots against adult Indian earthworms, Isenia foetida, with the aim of determining the extracts' comparative potency to the standard anthelmintic drug, Piperazine citrate.
Anthelmintic Activity of Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts
The study quantitatively assesses the anthelmintic activity by measuring the time taken for paralysis and death in earthworms exposed to different concentrations of the extracts. The methanolic extract demonstrates a more potent effect than the aqueous extract, resulting in faster paralysis and death of the worms. For instance, at a concentration of 100 mg/ml, the methanolic extract induced paralysis in approximately 3.36 minutes and death in 6.56 minutes, showcasing significantly stronger anthelmintic properties compared to both the aqueous extract and Piperazine citrate.
Phytochemical Constituents and Their Role
Preliminary phytochemical screening reveals the presence of various compounds in the methanolic extract, including alkaloids, tannins, and phenolic compounds, which are known for their therapeutic properties. Specifically, tannins and phenolics have been implicated in anthelmintic action due to their ability to bind to proteins in the gastrointestinal tract of host animals or glycoproteins on the parasites’ cuticles, thereby leading to the death of the parasites. The presence of these bioactive constituents supports the traditional use of Tephrosia purpurea as a remedy against parasitic infections.
Significance of the Study
The findings underline the relevance of Tephrosia purpurea in addressing helminth infections, which pose substantial public health threats, particularly in developing nations. The evaluation of its extracts not only reinforces the plant's traditional medicinal use but also opens avenues for further research into natural alternatives to synthetic anthelmintics. The study highlights the pressing need to explore plant-based compounds as viable solutions to combat parasitic worm infections affecting both humans and livestock.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the research concludes that both methanolic and aqueous extracts of Tephrosia purpurea exhibit notable anthelmintic activity, with the methanolic extract being particularly effective. The study calls for increased exploration of this plant's potential in the development of alternative therapeutic agents to combat helminthiasis. The promising results underscore the importance of traditional knowledge in guiding modern pharmacological research and suggest that Tephrosia purpurea might serve as a valuable resource in the fight against parasitic infections.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of the study on Tephrosia purpurea?
The study investigates the anthelmintic activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Tephrosia purpurea roots on Indian adult earthworms, comparing their effects to the standard drug Piperazine citrate.
What parts of Tephrosia purpurea are evaluated for medicinal properties?
The root extracts of Tephrosia purpurea are evaluated for their medicinal properties, particularly their potential to treat helminth infections in humans, as well as other ailments.
What methods are used to extract compounds from Tephrosia purpurea roots?
The roots are extracted using a Soxhlet apparatus with both methanol and distilled water to obtain concentrated extracts for further evaluation of anthelmintic activity.
What were the key findings regarding the extracts' anthelmintic activity?
Both methanolic and aqueous extracts showed significant anthelmintic activity against Indian adult earthworms, with methanolic extract demonstrating more potent effects than the aqueous extract.
What phytochemical constituents were identified in the methanolic extract?
The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, triterpenoids, and tannins, which are known for their potential anthelmintic properties.
What future implications does this study suggest for Tephrosia purpurea?
This study suggests that Tephrosia purpurea could be further explored as a natural remedy for treating helminth infections, contributing to alternative therapeutic options in public health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anthelmintic activity of Tephrosia purpurea root extract in earthworms.”. 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) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological effects that substances, specifically extracts in this context, exhibit through their interactions with living organisms. The study focuses on the anthelmintic activity of Tephrosia purpurea extracts, aiming to evaluate their effect against parasitic worms, which is crucial for both human and animal health.
2) Indian:
Indian indicates geographical relevance, as the study is conducted using Indian adult earthworms, specifically the species Isonia Foetida. Local species are vital for evaluating the efficacy of traditional herbal remedies in a regional context and to understand the applicability of findings in Indian herbal medicinal practices.
3) Shatara (Satara):
Satara is a district in Maharashtra, India, where the research was conducted. Its geographical position is significant as the indigenous flora, including Tephrosia purpurea, is known for its traditional medicinal uses. The local environment can also influence the chemical profiles of plants, making the research contextually relevant.
4) Death:
Death in this context refers to the cessation of movement of earthworms used in the study after exposure to the extracts. Recording the time to death is crucial for assessing the efficacy of the anthelmintic properties of the extracts, which is fundamental to understanding their potential as therapeutic agents.
5) Disease:
Disease refers to conditions caused by parasitic infections in this study, notably caused by helminths. Such diseases pose significant public health challenges, particularly in developing countries. Understanding how plant extracts can combat these infections contributes to the broader field of herbal medicine and disease management strategies.
6) Bitter:
Bitter is a characteristic taste of the extracts and the Tephrosia purpurea root itself. This property is often linked to the presence of active compounds, which may be responsible for the plant's medicinal effects, including its anthelmintic action. Bitter flavor is common in many medicinal herbs, indicating bioactive properties.
7) Worm:
Worm refers to the parasitic entities (helminths) that the study focuses on treating. Understanding earthworm models like Isonia Foetida is essential for preclinical evaluations of drug efficacy. These worms serve as proxies for studying the effects of medicinal extracts on larger parasitic worm infections in humans and animals.
8) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds produced by plants, which may have health benefits. The study involves analyzing the phytochemical constituents of Tephrosia purpurea, identifying specific components that contribute to its anthelmintic activity. This analysis is foundational for understanding how these compounds work therapeutically.
9) Powder:
Powder denotes the processed form of the root extract used in the study. The roots of Tephrosia purpurea were ground into powder before extraction, making it easier to quantify dosages for testing. The form of the plant material can impact extraction efficiency and the concentration of bioactive compounds.
10) Water:
Water serves as a solvent for the preparation of the aqueous extract of Tephrosia purpurea. The choice of solvent is critical as it influences the extraction of desired phytochemicals. Water is used to harness the polar compounds, highlighting the versatility of the plant's therapeutic potential.
11) Drug:
Drug refers to substances used for therapeutic purposes. In this study, Piperazine citrate is a standard drug compared with plant extracts. Investigating plant-based alternatives to conventional drugs reflects a growing trend in pharmacology to explore natural compounds for drug development and to address drug resistance in parasites.
12) Animal:
Animal refers to the study's use of earthworms, specifically as a model organism for assessing anthelmintic activity. Earthworms mimic the physiological characteristics of parasitic worms in animals and humans, allowing researchers to evaluate the effectiveness of extracts as potential treatments against various parasitic infections.
13) Campus:
Campus refers to the academic setting where the research is conducted, specifically Yashoda Technical Campus. Academic institutions provide the necessary resources and environment for conducting research, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in pharmacognosy and the development of herbal medicines.
14) Ulcer:
Ulcer reflects one of the traditional medicinal uses of Tephrosia purpurea. The plant has properties attributed to the healing of ulcers and wounds, showcasing its relevance in treating gastrointestinal conditions. Understanding the plant's effects on ulcers contributes to evaluating its broader medicinal applications.
15) Blood:
Blood signifies the systemic circulation affected by parasitic infections, as well as the medicinal applications of Tephrosia purpurea in treating blood-related disorders. Investigating how plant extracts influence blood health underscores potential therapeutic benefits beyond anthelmintic activity, highlighting multifunctional plant properties.
16) Study (Studying):
Study pertains to the research conducted to evaluate the anthelmintic properties of Tephrosia purpurea extracts. The systematic examination of the extracts' effects on earthworms establishes a scientific basis for traditional medicinal claims and contributes to the evidence-based understanding of herbal medicine.
17) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study's emphasis on the effects of plant extracts on biological systems. The pharmacological evaluation of Tephrosia purpurea explores its active compounds' mechanisms of action, offering insights into how these natural substances may act as therapeutics in various health contexts.
18) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis is highlighted as a prevalent infectious disease. Although not directly related to the study, its mention underscores the burden of infectious diseases in developing countries. This context motivates research into alternatives like herbal remedies that could complement existing treatments for various health issues, including helminth infections.
19) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response that may be alleviated by compounds present in Tephrosia purpurea. Understanding its role can deepen the knowledge of the plant's medicinal properties, especially in relation to digestive or parasitic infections, where inflammation often complicates the condition and recovery.
20) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is the Indian state where the plant was collected for study. The local ecological conditions may impact the chemical constituents of Tephrosia purpurea, influencing its therapeutic efficacy. Regional studies contribute to a comprehensive understanding of plant-based remedies in different environmental contexts.
21) Agriculture:
Agriculture refers to the cultivation practices that can affect the availability and quality of medicinal plants like Tephrosia purpurea. Sustainable agricultural practices are essential for preserving such plants, which are vital in traditional medicine and have potential as therapeutic agents in modern healthcare.
22) Observation:
Observation denotes the process of monitoring the effects of the extracts on earthworms during the study. Careful observation is critical in determining the efficacy of treatments and collecting data necessary for drawing reliable conclusions regarding the anthelmintic properties of the plant extracts.
23) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section of the research where findings are interpreted and contextualized. It allows researchers to link their results with existing literature, explore implications for medicinal use, and identify future research directions to optimize the use of Tephrosia purpurea in healthcare.
24) Developing:
Developing pertains to countries where helminth infections are prevalent due to inadequate health management. This context highlights the significance of studies testing traditional remedies, emphasizing the potential for affordable, accessible treatments originating from local plants to address widespread health challenges.
25) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite is mentioned as a condition traditionally treated with Tephrosia purpurea. This highlights the plant's historical use in folk medicine, suggesting a wide range of applications beyond anthelmintic effects. The study may pave the way for further research into its efficacy across various conditions.
26) Rat-bite:
Rat-bite references another area of traditional use for Tephrosia purpurea. The relevance of the plant in addressing poisoning from animal bites indicates its broader medicinal applications and the need to research and validate these traditional claims in modern pharmacology and therapeutic settings.
27) Marathi:
Marathi is the regional language of Maharashtra, India, where the study took place. Its mention connects cultural practices and local knowledge to the use of indigenous plants, fostering an appreciation for traditional medicine within the scientific framework, which is valuable for holistic healthcare.
28) Solapur:
Solapur is the specific district in Maharashtra where the plant was collected. Local biodiversity contributes significantly to traditional medicine, and studying plants native to regions like Solapur allows for a deeper understanding of the pharmacological potential of local flora in addressing health problems.
29) Leprosy:
Leprosy is referred to as another ailment traditionally treated with Tephrosia purpurea. This mention expands the understanding of the plant's medicinal history and validates the need for scientific investigation into its pharmacological properties, potentially leading to new treatment options for various diseases.
30) Species:
Species indicates the importance of identifying the correct organisms that the study targets, particularly the earthworm model for evaluating anthelmintic activity. Precision in species identification is crucial for accurate scientific assessment and understanding the ecological relevance of findings in broader biological research.
31) Mineral:
Mineral refers to the essential nutrients that plants like Tephrosia purpurea can provide. The presence of minerals in the plant underscores its potential health benefits beyond medicinal constituents, indicating that consuming plants rich in minerals may contribute to overall health and wellness.
32) Science (Scientific):
Science signifies the systematic study of the natural world that guides the research on Tephrosia purpurea. This investigation exemplifies applying scientific methods to validate traditional herbal medicine claims, bridging the gap between ethnobotany and modern pharmacology through empirical evidence.
33) Unhali:
Unhali is the local name for Tephrosia purpurea in the Marathi language. This connection highlights the cultural significance of plants in indigenous medical practices and emphasizes the importance of local knowledge in preserving traditional remedies, which are increasingly relevant in contemporary health care discussions.
34) Nature:
Nature refers to the natural environment from which medicinal plants like Tephrosia purpurea are derived. The study underscores the importance of conserving biodiversity and understanding how natural resources can be utilized sustainably to promote health while maintaining ecological balance.
35) Botany:
Botany is the study of plants that provides the foundational knowledge required for this research. Understanding plant biology, physiology, and chemistry is crucial for identifying the active compounds in Tephrosia purpurea and elucidating their roles in medicinal applications.
36) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi, another regional language spoken in India, is part of the linguistic landscape where traditional uses of Tephrosia purpurea exist. Recognizing the regional languages enriches the cultural context of herbal medicine, allowing better communication of traditional knowledge within scientific studies.
37) Table:
Table is used to present the quantitative data collected during the study. It succinctly summarizes the experimental results, making it easier to compare the effects of different extract concentrations on earthworm paralysis and death times, enhancing the clarity of the research findings.
38) Acrid:
Acrid describes the sharp, pungent characteristic of the plant, particularly regarding its taste. This sensory property often correlates with the presence of specific phytochemicals, which may contribute to the therapeutic effects of Tephrosia purpurea, alongside its recognized medicinal uses.
39) Pune:
Pune, a city in Maharashtra, is significant for its academic institutions involved in pharmaceutical research. The mention of Pune relates to potential collaborative efforts in research and development of herbal medicines, as well as the educational backdrop for studying medicinal plants.
40) Pose:
Pose refers to the potential threats that parasitic infections represent to public health. In this context, addressing the pervasive problem of helminths poses significant challenges, motivating research into effective treatments like plant extracts that may provide alternative solutions to manage these health issues.
41) Pur:
Poor denotes the socioeconomic conditions prevalent in developing countries where helminth infections are widespread. Recognizing this context emphasizes the importance of accessible and affordable treatment options, such as herbal medicines derived from local flora, for addressing health disparities in vulnerable populations.