Albizia Lebbeck

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Agelaea Obliqua

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NAME: Agelaea Obliqua 

FAMILY: Connaraceae

COMMON NAMES: Horse tamarind

LOCAL NAMES: Esura, Okun, niawri kluabu, Homabiri, Alanhita nta, Ehu, Egu

USEFUL PART(s): Leaves

GENERAL USES:

  • The fruit serves as chew stick for rubbing the teeth

  • Ornamental purpose

Geographic Distribution

  • Nigeria

  • Togo

  • Ghana

  • Ivory Coast

  • Cameroon

  • Guinea Bissau

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Agelaea obliqua medicinal values include:

  • Childbirth (Relaxation of Muscles)

  • Aphrodisiac

  • Convulsion

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • The plant beautifies the environment

FUNFUL FACT

  • It is a scrambling plant or climber of the forest and secondary jungle

  • The leaves are compounded of three acuminate leaflet

FURTHER READINGS

Barry, K. M., Janos, D. P., Nichols, S., & Bowman, D. M. J. S. (2015). Eucalyptus obliqua seedling growth in organic vs. mineral soil horizons. Frontiers in Plant Science, 6. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2015.00097

Fu, L., Li, Z. H., Huang, G. S., Wu, X. X., Ni, W. L., & Qü, W. W. (2014). The current and future potential geographic range of West Indian fruit fly, Anastrepha obliqua (Diptera: Tephritidae). Insect Science, 21(2), 234–244. https://doi.org/10.1111/1744-7917.12018

López-Guillén, G., Toledo, J., & Rojas, J. C. (2010). Response of Anastrepha Obliqua (Diptera: Tephritidae) to Fruit Odors and Protein-Based Lures in Field Trials. Florida Entomologist, 93(2), 317–318. https://doi.org/10.1653/024.093.0228

López-Guillén, G., Virgen, A., & Rojas, J. C. (2009). Color preference of Anastrepha obliqua (Diptera, Tephritidae). Revista Brasileira de Entomologia, 53(1), 157–159. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0085-56262009000100034

Montoya, P., Flores, S., & Toledo, J. (2008). Effect of Rainfall and Soil Moisture on Survival of Adults and Immature Stages of Anastrepha ludens and A . obliqua ( Diptera : Tephritidae ) under Semi-field Conditions. Florida Entomologist, 91(4), 643–650.

Pinto, A. F. M., Berger, M., Reck, J., Terra, R. M. S., & Guimarães, J. A. (2010). Lonomia obliqua venom: In vivo effects and molecular aspects associated with the hemorrhagic syndrome. Toxicon. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2010.01.013

Scally, M., Into, F., Thomas, D. B., Ruiz-Arce, R., Barr, N. B., & Schuenzel, E. L. (2016). Resolution of inter and intra-species relationships of the West Indian fruit fly Anastrepha obliqua. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, 101, 286–293. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ympev.2016.04.020

Zhang, Z. qun, Sun, X. ling, Xin, Z. jun, Luo, Z. xiu, Gao, Y., Bian, L., & Chen, Z. mao. (2013). Identification and Field Evaluation of Non-Host Volatiles Disturbing Host Location by the Tea Geometrid, Ectropis obliqua. Journal of Chemical Ecology, 39(10), 1284–1296. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10886-013-0344-6

Afzelia africana

afzelia_africana_reference.jpg

NAME: Afzelia africana

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: Apa, pod mahogany, African oak, African mahogany, counter wood

LOCAL NAMES: Apa-Igbo, Apa, kawo, Akpalata, Bilinga, Afzelia, Kilar

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

GENERAL USES:    

  • Young leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable

  • Fruit is edible but has a poisonous seed·

  • Dried seedpods are used as musical instruments

  • The wood is used for fuel and for making charcoal

  • The wood is use for ship building, construction, cabinetwork etc.

 

Geographic Distribution

  • Nigeria

  • Senegal

  • Uganda

  • Togo

  • Benin

  • Mali

  • Guinea Bisau

  • Ivory Coast

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Afzelia africana medicinal values include:

  • Gonorrhoea

  • Stomach disorders

  • Hernia

  • Lumbago

  • Febrifuge

  • Antiemetic

  • Backache

  • Malaria

  • Rheumatism

  • Arthritis

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Afzelia Africana improves the soil

  • Fix Nitrogen in the soil

 

FACT

  • The African mahogany is a large, deciduous tree and it is usually exported to Europe. The seeds are poisonous

 

FURTHER READINGS

Amusa, T. O. (2011). Effects of three pre-treatment techniques on dormancy and germination of seeds of Afzelia africana (Sm. Ex pers). Journal of Horticulture and Forestry, 3(4), 96–103. Retrieved from http://www.academicjournals.org/JHF/PDF/pdf2011/April/Amusa.pdf

Assogbadjo, A. E., Mensah, S., & Kakaï, R. G. (2017). The relative importance of climatic gradient versus human disturbance in determining population structure of Afzelia africana in the Republic of Benin§. Southern Forests, 79(2), 125–132. https://doi.org/10.2989/20702620.2016.1255406

Donkpegan, A. S. L., Doucet, J.-L., Dainou, K., & Hardy, O. J. (2015). Microsatellite development and flow cytometry in the African tree genus Afzelia (Fabaceae, Caesalpinioideae) reveal a polyploid complex. Applications in Plant Sciences, 3(1), 1400097. https://doi.org/10.3732/apps.1400097

Martins, E., Omoyeme, I., Christiana, I., Ofoefule, S., & Olobayo, K. (2009). Isolation, characterzation and compaction properties of Afzelia africana gum exudates in hydrochlorothiazide tablet formulations. . African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 3(5), 265–272. Retrieved from http://academicjournals.org/AJPP/PDF/ pdf2009/May/Martins et al.pdf

Mensah, S., Houéhanou, T. D., Assogbadjo, A. E., Anyomi, K. A., Ouedraogo, A., & Kakaï, R. G. (2016). Latitudinal variation in the woody species diversity of afzelia africana sm. Habitats in West Africa. Tropical Ecology, 57(4), 717–726.

Ogbu, I. M., & Ajiwe, V. I. E. (2016). FTIR studies of thermal stability of the oils and methyl esters from Afzelia africana and Hura crepitans seeds. Renewable Energy, 96, 203–208. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2016.04.055

Oyedemi, O. O., Adewusi, E. A., Aiyegoro, O. A., & Akinpelu, D. A. (2011). Antidiabetic and haematological effect of aqueous extract of stem bark of Afzelia africana (Smith) on streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 1(5), 353–358. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(11)60079-8

Sotannde, O. A., Oluwadare, A. O., Ogedoh, O., & Adeogun, P. F. (2012). Evaluation of cement-bonded particle board produced from Afzelia africana wood residues. Journal of Engineering Science and Technology, 7(6), 732–743.

Afrormosia laxiflor

Source: Pythonpathos

Source: Pythonpathos

NAME: Afrormosia laxiflor

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: Kulkuli, satin wood, false dalbergia, afrormosia

LOCAL NAMES: Shedun, makarfo, abua ocha, kukulabu

USEFUL PART(s): Root

GENERAL USES:

  • The wood is use in making household and personal items such as furniture, toys, pestle, handles etc

  • The wood serves as fuel and makes a good charcoal

Geographic Distribution

  • Senegal

  • Sudan

  • Togo

  • Ivory Coast

  • Nigeria

  • Ghana

  • Republic of Guinea

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Afrormosia laxiflor medicinal values include:

  • Intoxicant

  • Headache

  • Body pains

  • Headache

  • Ophthalmia

  • Anticonvulsant

  • Oedema

  • Oral treatments

  • Diarrhoea

  • Dysentery

  • Venereal disease

  • Paralysis

  • Epilepsy

  • Convulsion

FUNFUL FACT

  • It is a deciduous tree found in savannah woodland common in rocky places

  • It is propagated through seed

FURTHER READINGS

Abou, O., Karamoko, O., Adama, C., & Augustin, A. A. (2013). Phytochemical screening and evaluation of the antibacterial activity of bark extracts of Pericopsis (Afrormosia) laxiflora (Benth.) of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae ESBL. Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, 5(1), 86–90.

Bourland, N., Cerisier, F., Daïnou, K., Smith, A. L., Hubau, W., Beeckman, H., … Doucet, J. L. (2015). How tightly linked are Pericopsis elata (Fabaceae) patches to anthropogenic disturbances in Southeastern Cameroon? Forests, 6(2), 293–310. https://doi.org/10.3390/f6020293

Deklerck, V., Finch, K., Gasson, P., Van den Bulcke, J., Van Acker, J., Beeckman, H., & Espinoza, E. (2017). Comparison of species classification models of mass spectrometry data: Kernel Discriminant Analysis vs Random Forest; A case study of Afrormosia (Pericopsis elata (Harms) Meeuwen). Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry, 31(19), 1582–1588. https://doi.org/10.1002/rcm.7939

Haruna, A. K. (2000). Depressant and anticonvulsant properties of the root decoction of Afrormosia laxiflora (Leguminosae). Phytotherapy Research, 14(1), 57–59. https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1099-1573(200002)14:1<57::AID-PTR538>3.0.CO;2-V

Ngo Bum, E., Soudi, S., Ayissi, E. R., Dong, C., Lakoulo, N. H., Maidawa, F., … Kamanyi, A. (2011). Anxiolytic activity evaluation of four medicinal plants from Cameroon. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines : AJTCAM / African Networks on Ethnomedicines, 8(5 Suppl), 130–139. https://doi.org/10.4314/ajtcam.v8i5S.19

Nils, B., Lambert, K. Y., Philippe, L., Bonaventure, S., Julien, P., Kasso, D., … Jean-Louis, D. (2012). Ecology of Pericopsis elata (Fabaceae), an Endangered Timber Species in Southeastern Cameroon. Biotropica, 44(6), 840–847. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-7429.2012.00874.x

Aframomum melegueta

Cultivated plantPhotograph by:&nbsp;François Guibert

Cultivated plant
Photograph by: François Guibert

NAME: Aframomum melegueta

FAMILY: Zingiberaceae

COMMON NAMES: Alligator pepper, grains of paradise, Melegueta pepper, Guinea pepper, Ossame

LOCAL NAMES: Ata-ire, Atare, Itaye, Ose oji, Citta, Gyandamaryaji, Maniguette

USEFUL PART(s): Leaves, seeds

GENERAL USES:

  • Grains of paradise is a spice use to season food

  • It is use in flavouring drinks, wines and beers

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Nigeria

  • Liberia

  • Ethiopia

  • Ghana

  • Cameroon

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Aframomum melegueta medicinal values include:

  • Stimulant

  • Smallpox

  • Chicken pox

  • Anthelmintics

  • Wounds

  • Coughs and Cold

  • Anaemia

  • Rheumatism

  •  Measles

  • Malaria

  • Toothache

  • Relieve from nausea

  • Constipation

  • Reduce vomiting

  • Menstrual pain

FUNFUL FACT

  • Aframomum melegueta can boost the level of testosterone in male

  • It has the name “grain of paradise” because of its high values

  • It is a cash crop

FURTHER READINGS

Adefegha, S. A., Oboh, G., Okeke, B. M., & Oyeleye, S. I. (2017). Comparative Effects of Alkaloid Extracts from Aframomum melegueta (Alligator Pepper) and Aframomum danielli (Bastered Melegueta) on Enzymes Relevant to Erectile Dysfunction. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(5), 542–552. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2016.1272661

Amponsah, J., Adamtey, N., Elegba, W., & Danso, K. E. (2013). In situ morphometric characterization of Aframomum melegueta accessions in Ghana. AoB PLANTS, 5. https://doi.org/10.1093/aobpla/plt027

D.O., A., K.T., O., T.P., O., O.J., O., & I.A, A. (2014). Nutritional, Minerals and Phytochemicals composition of Garcinia cola [Bitter cola] and Aframomum melegueta [Alligator pepper]. Journal Of Environmental Science, Toxicology And Food Technology, 8(1), 8 6-91.

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

Ilic, N. M., Dey, M., Poulev, A. A., Logendra, S., Kuhn, P. E., & Raskin, I. (2014). Anti-inflammatory activity of grains of paradise (Aframomum Melegueta Schum) extract. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 62(43), 10452–10457. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf5026086

Kamte, S. L. N., Ranjbarian, F., Campagnaro, G. D., Nya, P. C. B., Mbuntcha, H., Woguem, V., … Maggi, F. (2017). Trypanosoma brucei inhibition by essential oils from medicinal and aromatic plants traditionally used in Cameroon (Azadirachta Indica, Aframomum Melegueta, Aframomum Daniellii, Clausena Anisata, Dichrostachys cinerea and Echinops Giganteus). International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14070737

Mohammed, A., Gbonjubola, V. A., Koorbanally, N. A., & Islam, M. S. (2017). Inhibition of key enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes by compounds isolated from Aframomum melegueta fruit. Pharmaceutical Biology, 55(1), 1010–1016. https://doi.org/10.1080/13880209.2017.1286358

Mohammed, A., Koorbanally, N. A., & Islam, M. S. (2015). Ethyl acetate fraction of Aframomum melegueta fruit ameliorates pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and major diabetes-related parameters in a type 2 diabetes model of rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 175, 518–527. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2015.10.011

Mohammed, A., Koorbanally, N. A., & Islam, M. S. (2016). Phytochemistry, antioxidative activity and inhibition of key enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes by various parts of Aframomum melegueta in vitro. Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica - Drug Research, 73(2), 403–417.

Umukoro, S., & Ashorobi, R. B. (2007). Further studies on the antinociceptive action of aqueous seed extract of Aframomum melegueta. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 109(3), 501–504. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2006.08.025

Afraegle paniculata

Fruits - one cut open to show the seeds and fleshPhotograph by:&nbsp;Marco Schmidt

Fruits - one cut open to show the seeds and flesh
Photograph by: Marco Schmidt

NAME: Afraegle paniculata
FAMILY: Rutaceae
COMMON NAMES: Kokodi, Nigerian powder-flask fruit
LOCAL NAMES: Sanga, kalêdé, bukobabu
USEFUL PART(s): Leaves, bark, roots
 

GENERAL USES:

  • The seed produce oil  that can be eaten

  • The leaves when cooked also serve as food

  • The wood of the plant is use to make household and domestic tools or items

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Senegal

  • Nigeria

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Afraegle paniculata medicinal values include:

  • Gastro-intestinal disorders

  • Antispasmodic

  • Skin diseases

  • Arthritis

  • Venereal diseases

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • The plant can serves as an ornament

FUNFUL FACT

  • Afraegle paniculata  is used as a rootstock for accession of bael fruit

  • The leaves are sometimes soften and added to the water used for bathing

  • Flowering period is from June to July and fruiting is from August to December.

FURTHER READINGS

Anju, D., Jugnu, G., Kavita, S., Arun, N., & Sandeep, D. (2012). a Review on Medicinal Prospectives of Andrographis Paniculata Nees. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Scientific Innovation, 1(1), 1–4.
Aziz, S. S. S. A., Sukari, M. A., Rahmani, M., Kitajima, M., Aimi, N., & Ahpandi, N. J. (2010). Koumarin daripada Murraya Paniculata (Rutaceae). Malaysian Journal of Analytical Sciences, 14(1), 1–5.
Costa, C. A. R. A., Tanimoto, A., Quaglio, A. E. V., Almeida, L. D., Severi, J. A., & Di Stasi, L. C. (2015). Anti-inflammatory effects of Brazilian ginseng (Pfaffia paniculata) on TNBS-induced intestinal inflammation: Experimental evidence. International Immunopharmacology, 28(1), 459–469. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2015.07.002
Gandi, S., Rao, K., Chodisetti, B., & Giri, A. (2012). Elicitation of Andrographolide in the Suspension Cultures of Andrographis paniculata. Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 168(7), 1729–1738. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12010-012-9892-4
Okhuarobo, A., Ehizogie Falodun, J., Erharuyi, O., Imieje, V., Falodun, A., & Langer, P. (2014). Harnessing the medicinal properties of Andrographis paniculata for diseases and beyond: A review of its phytochemistry and pharmacology. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 4(3), 213–222. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2222-1808(14)60509-0
Pant, N., Misra, H., & Jain, D. C. (2014). A xanthone glycoside from aerial parts of Swertia paniculata. Journal of Saudi Chemical Society, 18(5), 551–554. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jscs.2011.11.001
Premanath, R., & Nanjaiah, L. (2015). Antidiabetic and Antioxidant potential of Andrographis paniculata Nees. leaf ethanol extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 5(1), 069–076. https://doi.org/10.7324/JAPS.2015.50113
Sandborn, W. J., Targan, S. R., Byers, V. S., Rutty, D. A., Mu, H., Zhang, X., & Tang, T. (2013). Andrographis paniculata extract (HMPL-004) for active ulcerative colitis. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108(1), 90–98. https://doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2012.340
Shi, J., Li, C. J., Yang, J. Z., Ma, J., Wang, C., Tang, J., … Zhang, D. M. (2014). Hepatoprotective coumarins and secoiridoids from Hydrangea paniculata. Fitoterapia, 96, 138–145. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2014.04.015

 

Afzelia africana

Source: Youtube

Source: Youtube

NAME: Afzelia africana

FAMILY: Leguminosae

COMMON NAMES: Apa, pod mahogany, African oak, African mahogany, counter wood

LOCAL NAMES: Apa-Igbo, Apa, kawo, Akpalata, Bilinga, Afzelia, Kilar

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

GENERAL USES:

  • Young leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable

  • Fruit is edible but has a poisonous seed

  •  Dried seedpods are used as musical instruments

  • The wood is used for fuel and for making charcoal

  • The wood is use for ship building, construction, cabinetwork etc.

 GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Nigeria

  • Senegal

  • Uganda

  • Togo

  • Benin

  • Mali

  • Guinea Bissau

  • Ivory Coast

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Afzelia africana medicinal values include:

  • Gonorrhoea

  • Stomach disorders

  • Hernia

  • Lumbago

  • Febrifuge

  • Antiemetic

  • Backache

  • Malaria

  • Rheumatism

  • Arthritis

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Afzelia Africana improves the soil

  • Fix  Nitrogen in the soil

 FUNFUL FACT

  • The African mahogany is a large, deciduous tree and it is usually exported to Europe

  • The seeds are poisonous

Kigelia_africana_Wernfried.jpg

 FURTHER READINGS

Amusa, T. O. (2011). Effects of three pre-treatment techniques on dormancy and germination of seeds of Afzelia africana (Sm. Ex pers). Journal of Horticulture and Forestry, 3(4), 96–103. Retrieved from http://www.academicjournals.org/JHF/PDF/pdf2011/April/Amusa.pdf

Assogbadjo, A. E., Mensah, S., & Kakaï, R. G. (2017). The relative importance of climatic gradient versus human disturbance in determining population structure of Afzelia africana in the Republic of Benin§. Southern Forests, 79(2), 125–132. https://doi.org/10.2989/20702620.2016.1255406

Donkpegan, A. S. L., Doucet, J.-L., Dainou, K., & Hardy, O. J. (2015). Microsatellite development and flow cytometry in the African tree genus Afzelia (Fabaceae, Caesalpinioideae) reveal a polyploid complex. Applications in Plant Sciences, 3(1), 1400097. https://doi.org/10.3732/apps.1400097

Martins, E., Omoyeme, I., Christiana, I., Ofoefule, S., & Olobayo, K. (2009). Isolation, characterzation and compaction properties of Afzelia africana gum exudates in hydrochlorothiazide tablet formulations. . African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 3(5), 265–272. Retrieved from http://academicjournals.org/AJPP/PDF/ pdf2009/May/Martins et al.pdf

Mensah, S., Houéhanou, T. D., Assogbadjo, A. E., Anyomi, K. A., Ouedraogo, A., & Kakaï, R. G. (2016). Latitudinal variation in the woody species diversity of afzelia africana sm. Habitats in West Africa. Tropical Ecology, 57(4), 717–726.

Ogbu, I. M., & Ajiwe, V. I. E. (2016). FTIR studies of thermal stability of the oils and methyl esters from Afzelia africana and Hura crepitans seeds. Renewable Energy, 96, 203–208. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2016.04.055

Oyedemi, O. O., Adewusi, E. A., Aiyegoro, O. A., & Akinpelu, D. A. (2011). Antidiabetic and haematological effect of aqueous extract of stem bark of Afzelia africana (Smith) on streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 1(5), 353–358. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(11)60079-8

Sotannde, O. A., Oluwadare, A. O., Ogedoh, O., & Adeogun, P. F. (2012). Evaluation of cement-bonded particle board produced from Afzelia africana wood residues. Journal of Engineering Science and Technology, 7(6), 732–743.

Aerva lanata

NAME: Aerva lanata

FAMILY: Amaranthaceae

COMMON NAME(s): Bhadram, Cherula, Mountain knotgrass

LOCAL NAMES: Eweowo, Aje, Efun-ile, Alhaji, Furfurata, Fatumi, Kapuri jadi

USEFUL PART(s): Whole plant

GENERAL USE(s):  

  • The whole plant is edible and serve as food for people

  • It is also edible for farm animals

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • India

  • Nigeria

  • Ghana

  • Uganda

  • Ethiopia

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Australia

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Aerva lanata medicinal uses include:

  • Ulcers

  • Wounds

  • Snake bite

  • Diuretic

  • Purgative

  • Arthritis

  • Anthelmintic

  • Sore throat

  • Kidney and bladder stones

Source: commons.wikimedia.org By Vinayaraj

Source: commons.wikimedia.org By Vinayaraj

FURTHER READINGS

Dinnimath, B. M., Jalalpure, S. S., & Patil, U. K. (2017). Antiurolithiatic activity of natural constituents isolated from Aerva lanata. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 8(4), 226–232. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaim.2016.11.006

Gujjeti, R. P., & Mamidala, E. (2017). Anti-HIV Activity of Phytosterol Isolated from Aerva lanata Roots. Pharmacognosy Journal, 9, 112–116. https://doi.org/10.5530/pj.2017.1.19

Ikewuchi, J. C., Uwakwe, A. A., Onyeike, E. N., & Ikewuchi, C. C. (2011). Hepatoprotective effect of an aqueous extract of the leaves of Acalypha wilkesiana “Godseffiana” Muell Arg (Euphorbiaceae) against carbon tetrachloride induced liver injury in rats. EXCLI Journal, 10, 280–289.

Kalirajan, A., Narayanan, K. R., Ranjitsingh, A. J. A., Ramalakshmi, C., & Parvathiraj, P. (2013). Bioprospecting medicinal plant Aerva lanata Juss. ex Schult. flowers for potential antimicrobial activity against clinical and fish-borne pathogens. Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources, 4(3), 306–311.

Omotoso, K. S., Aigbe, F. R., Salako, O. A., Chijioke, M. C., & Adeyemi, O. O. (2017). Toxicological evaluation of the aqueous whole plant extract of Aerva lanata (l.) Juss. ex Schult (Amaranthaceae). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 208, 174–184. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2017.06.032

Poonkuzhali, K., Rajeswari, V., Saravanakumar, T., Viswanathamurthi, P., Park, S. M., Govarthanan, M., … Palvannan, T. (2014). Reduction of hexavalent chromium using Aerva lanata L.: Elucidation of reduction mechanism and identification of active principles. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 272, 89–95. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2014.03.001

Raihan, O., Brishti, A., Bahar, E., Islam, F., Rahman, M., Tareq, S. M., & Hossain, M. A. (2012). Antioxidant and anticancer effect of methanolic extract of Aerva lanata Linn. against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) in vivo. Oriental Pharmacy and Experimental Medicine, 12(3), 219–225. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13596-012-0073-3

Rao, M. A., Palaksha, M. N., Sirisha, K. N., Bhargavi, V. L., & Manikandhar, P. (2014). Effect of Aerva lanata on cisplatin induced neurotoxicity in rats. World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3(2), 2431–2451. Retrieved from http://www.wjpps.com/current_issue.php%5Cnhttp://ovidsp.ovid.com/ovidweb.cgi?T=JS&CSC=Y&NEWS=N&PAGE=fulltext&D=cagh&AN=20143096275%5Cnhttp://oxfordsfx.hosted.exlibrisgroup.com/oxford?sid=OVID:caghdb&id=pmid:&id=doi:&issn=2278-4357&isbn=&volume=3&issue=2&spage=2

Shekhawat, M. S., Manokari, M., & Revathi, J. (2017). In vitro propagation and ex vitro rooting of Aerva lanata (L.) Juss. ex Schult.: a rare medicinal plant. Indian Journal of Plant Physiology, 22(1), 40–47. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40502-016-0248-x

Thanganadar Appapalam, S., & Panchamoorthy, R. (2017). Aerva lanata mediated phytofabrication of silver nanoparticles and evaluation of their antibacterial activity against wound associated bacteria. Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers, 78, 539–551. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtice.2017.06.035

Vivek, D., Nair, N. G., Anju, M. P., Vatakkeel, B., Siju, E. N., & Aiswarya Lakshmi, A. G. (2015). In vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Aerva lanata. International Journal of Toxicological and Pharmacological Research, 7(1), 57–59.

 

Adenium Obesum

Source: Wikimedia

Source: Wikimedia

NAME: Adenium Obesum

FAMILY: Apoynaceae

COMMON NAME(s): Sabi star, Impala lily, Desert rose, Mock Azalea

LOCAL NAMES: Gariya

USEFUL PART(s):  Stem, roots, fruit, juice

GENERAL USE(s):  

  • The sap from the plant stem and root is used as arrow poison for hunting and fish toxin

  • Ornamental purpose

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Senegal

  • Sudan

  • Mauritania

  • Ethiopia,

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Yemen

  • Sri Lanka

  • Thailand

 WHY IS IT GREEN? 

 Adenium Obesum medicinal uses include:

  • Wound dressing

  • Ulcer

  • Cardiac tonic

  • Venereal diseases

OTHER IMPACT

The plant is toxic

FURTHER READINGS

Abalaka, S. E., Fatihu, M. Y., Ibrahim, N. D. G., & Ambali, S. F. (2015). Gills and skin histopathological evaluation in African sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus exposed to ethanol extract of Adenium obesum stem bark. Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Research, 41(1), 119–127. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejar.2015.01.005

Abalaka, S. E., Fatihu, M. Y., Ibrahim, N. D. G., & Ambali, S. F. (2015). Liver histopathological changes in Clarias gariepinus exposed to ethanol extract of Adenium obesum stem bark. Journal of Morphological Sciences, 32(1), 22–28. https://doi.org/10.4322/jms.069314

AL-Ghudani, M. K. N., & Hossain, M. A. (2015). Determination of total phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activity of root crude extracts of Adenium obesum traditionally used for the treatment of bone dislocations and rheumatism. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 5(S1), S155–S158. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2222-1808(15)60879-9

Farah, M. A., Ali, M. A., Chen, S.-M., Li, Y., Al-Hemaid, F. M., Abou-Tarboush, F. M., … Lee, J. (2016). Silver nanoparticles synthesized from Adenium obesum leaf extract induced DNA damage, apoptosis and autophagy via generation of reactive oxygen species. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, 141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfb.2016.01.027

Farah, M. A., Ali, M. A., Chen, S.-M., Li, Y., Al-Hemaid, F. M., Abou-Tarboush, F. M., … Lee, J. (2016). Silver nanoparticles synthesized from Adenium obesum leaf extract induced DNA damage, apoptosis and autophagy via generation of reactive oxygen species. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, 141, 158–169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfb.2016.01.027

Farah, M. A., Ali, M. A., Chen, S. M., Li, Y., Al-Hemaid, F. M., Abou-Tarboush, F. M., … Lee, J. (2016). Silver nanoparticles synthesized from Adenium obesum leaf extract induced DNA damage, apoptosis and autophagy via generation of reactive oxygen species. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, 141, 158–169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfb.2016.01.027

Hossain, M. A., Sohail Akhtar, M., Said, S., & Al-Abri, T. H. A. (2017). Two new flavonoids from Adenium obesum grown in Oman. Journal of King Saud University - Science, 29(1), 62–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jksus.2016.04.004

Van der Walt, K., & Witkowski, E. T. F. (2017). Seed viability, germination and seedling emergence of the critically endangered stem succulent, Adenium swazicum, in South Africa. South African Journal of Botany, 109, 237–245. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2017.01.011

Versiani, M. A., Ahmed, S. K., Ikram, A., Ali, S. T., Yasmeen, K., & Faizi, S. (2014). Chemical constituents and biological activities of Adenium obesum (Forsk. ) Roem. et Schult. Chemistry and Biodiversity. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.201200254

Yash, S., Anshita, N., & Susmita, S. (2015). Antimicrobial activity and phytochemical screening of Adenium obesum (Desert rose) leaf. International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences, 6(3), P85–P92.

Adenia cissampeloides

Source: West African Plants

Source: West African Plants

NAME: Adenia cissampeloides

FAMILY: Passifloraceae

COMMON NAME(s): Adenia

LOCAL NAMES: Arokeke, Godogbo, Akan-twi

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, Stem-bark

GENERAL USE(s):  

  • The leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable

  • The sap from the tree is used as cosmetics

  • The stem can be use to make rope

  • Used as fish poison

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Senegal

  • Somalia

  • South Africa

  • Seychelles

  • Angola

  • Zambia

  • Zimbabwe

  • Mozambique

 
WHY IS IT GREEN?

Adenia cissampeloides medicinal uses include:

  • Hypertension

  • Nervous disorder

  • Stress

  • Cough

  • Gonorrhea

  • Antimicrobial

  • Oedema

  • Rheumatism

  • Pain relief

  • Fever

  • Malaria

  • Lactation stimulants

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Ornamental purpose

OTHER IMPACT

  • The plant is toxic

adenia_cissampeloides_ms_1469_47_268548.jpg

FURTHER READINGS

Ishola, I. O., Olayemi, S. O., Yemitan, O. K., & Akinseye, K. (2015). Role for monoaminergic systems in the antidepressant and anxiolytic properties of the hydroethanolic leaf extract from Adenia cissampeloides. Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, 26(3), 301–312. https://doi.org/10.1515/jbcpp-2014-0015

Polito, L., Bortolotti, M., Pedrazzi, M., Mercatelli, D., Battelli, M. G., & Bolognesi, A. (2016). Apoptosis and necroptosis induced by stenodactylin in neuroblastoma cells can be completely prevented through caspase inhibition plus catalase or necrostatin-1. Phytomedicine, 23(1), 32–41. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2015.11.006

Saganuwan, S. A. (2014). EHMTI-0206. Nigerian plants that are used for treatment of headache and migraine. 4th European Headache and Migraine Trust International Congress, EHMTIC 2014 Copenhagen Denmark, 15(Suppl 1), G33. https://doi.org/10.1186/1129-2377-15-S1-G33

Sargiacomo, M., & Hughes, R. C. (1982). Interaction of ricin-sensitive and ricin-resistant cell lines with other carbohydrate-binding toxins. FEBS Letters, 141(1), 14–18. https://doi.org/10.1016/0014-5793(82)80005-7

Sun, D. (2016). Traditional chinese medicine for treating iron deficiency anemia due to weakness of the spleen and the stomach and preparation method [Machine Translation]. Faming Zhuanli Shenqing.

Trevisi, P., Miller, B., Patel, D., Bolognesi, A., Bortolotti, M., & Bosi, P. (2017). Two different in vitro tests confirm the blocking activity of D-galactose lectins on the adhesion of Escherichia coli F4 to pig brush border receptors. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 16(1), 101–107. https://doi.org/10.1080/1828051X.2016.1260499

Vaglica, V., Sajeva, M., Noel McGough, H., Hutchison, D., Russo, C., Gordon, A. D., … Smith, M. J. (2017). Monitoring internet trade to inform species conservation actions. Endangered Species Research, 32(1), 223–235. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00803

Varadharajaperumal, P., Subramanian, B., & Santhanam, A. (2017). Biopolymer mediated nanoparticles synthesized from Adenia hondala for enhanced tamoxifen drug delivery in breast cancer cell line. Advances in Natural Sciences: Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 8(3). https://doi.org/10.1088/2043-6254/aa7253

 

Adansonia digitata

Source: Wikimedia.org

Source: Wikimedia.org

NAME: Adansonia digitata 

FAMILY: Bombacaceae

COMMON NAMES: Baobab, monkey-bread tree, upside-down tree, cream of tartar tree.

LOCAL NAMES: Ose, Igi-ose, kukaa, kulambali, Gorakh-imli

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, fruit pulp, bark

GENERAL USE(s):  

  • The leaves are use as animal feed and pasture for ruminant animal.

  • Fruit pulp is edible and juice can be made from it.

  • It is a food plant in which the leaves and seeds can be cooked to make feeding better.

  • Fibres are gotten from the bark to make mats, fishing nets, sacks and cloths.

  • The wood is used for timber and fuel.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Namibia

  • Nigeria

  • Angola

  • Ghana

  • Cameroon

  • Congo

  • Ethiopia

  • Sudan

  • Haiti

  • India

  • South Africa

By Roger Culos - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0,

By Roger Culos - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0,

WHY IS IT GREEN? 

Adansonia digitata medicinal uses include

  • Malaria

  • Asthma

  • Diarrhea

  • Kidney and bladder diseases

  • Demulcent

  • Prophylactic

  • Antihistaminic

  • Skin diseases

  • Caries

  • Antimicrobial

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • It improves the soil by shedding its leaves

  • It can be grown for shade and sheltering

  • Support biodiversity

OTHER IMPACT

  • The plant stores water

  • Ornamental purpose

FURTHER READINGS

Abdulkarim, S.M, Bamalli Z, G. M. . and K. R. (2014). Baobab Tree ( Adansonia digitata L ) Parts : Nutrition , Applications in Food and Uses in Ethno-medicine – A Review. Austin Publishing Group, 1(3), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.1.1966.7602

Gebauer, J., Whitney, C. W., & Tabuti, J. R. S. (2016). First record of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) in Uganda. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, 63(5), 755–762. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10722-016-0387-y

Nwokocha, L. M., & Williams, P. A. (2016). Rheological properties of a polysaccharide isolated from Adansonia digitata leaves. Food Hydrocolloids, 58, 29–34. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodhyd.2016.02.013

Rahul, J., Jain, M. K., Singh, S. P., Kamal, R. K., Anuradha, Naz, A., … Mrityunjay, S. K. (2015). Adansonia digitata L. (baobab): A review of traditional information and taxonomic description. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 5(1), 79–84. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(15)30174-X

Sharma, B. K., Bhat, A. A., & Jain, A. K. (2015). Adansonia digitata L. (Malvaceae) a threatened tree species of medicinal importance. Medicinal Plants. https://doi.org/10.5958/0975-6892.2015.00025.8

Tahia, F., Majumder, P., Sikder, M. A. A., & Rashid, M. A. (2015). Studies of bioactivities of adansonia digitata (L.). Dhaka University Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 14(2), 157–162.

Tembo, D. T., Holmes, M. J., & Marshall, L. J. (2017). Effect of thermal treatment and storage on bioactive compounds, organic acids and antioxidant activity of baobab fruit (Adansonia digitata) pulp from Malawi. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 58, 40–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2017.01.002

Woodborne, S., Hall, G., Robertson, I., Patrut, A., Rouault, M., Loader, N. J., & Hofmeyr, M. (2015). A 1000-year carbon isotope rainfall proxy record from South African baobab trees (Adansonia digitata L.). PLoS ONE, 10(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0124202

Achyranthes aspera

Source: Wikimedia By Frank Vincentz

Source: Wikimedia By Frank Vincentz

NAME:  Achyranthes aspera

FAMILY: Amaranthaceae

COMMON NAMES: Devil's horsewhip, Rough-Chaff herb, chaff-flower

LOCAL NAMES: Aboro, Abora hakoorin-maciijii, Kutri, Nayurivi, Grootklits

USEFUL PART(s):  Leaves, roots

GENERAL USE(s):  

  • Use as fodder for some livestocks

  • The plant is useful in manuring and composting.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Afghanistan

  • India

  • Malaysia

  • Zimbabwe

  • Tunisia

  • Uganda

  • Mexico

  • Spain

 WHY IS IT GREEN? 

Achyranthes aspera medicinal uses include:

  • Stomach disorders

  • Abortion

  • Diarrhea

  • Dysentery

  • Skin diseases

  • Malaria

  • Venereal diseases

  • Haemostatic

  • Cold

  • Kidney Disease

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT        

  • The plant helps in soil improvement

  • It is also a host of pest

  • Widespread weed especially in shaded pastures

OTHER IMPACT        

Some features of the plant are harmful to humans and animals

FURTHER READINGS

Asif, M., Jabeen, Q., Atif, M., Abdul Majid, A. M. S., & Qamar-Uz-Zaman, M. (2014). Diuretic activity of Achyranthes aspera Linn crude aqueous extract in albino rats. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 13(12), 2039–2045. https://doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v13i12.14

Gawande, D. Y., Druzhilovsky, D., Gupta, R. C., Poroikov, V., & Goel, R. K. (2017). Anticonvulsant activity and acute neurotoxic profile of Achyranthes aspera Linn. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 202, 97–102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2017.03.018

Gnanaraj, W. E., Johnson, M., Mohanamathi, R. B., & Subramanian, K. M. (2012). In vitro clonal propagation of Achyranthes aspera L. and Achyranthes bidentata Blume using nodal explants. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2(1), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(11)60179-2

Khuda, F., Iqbal, Z., Khan, A., Zakiullah, Nasir, F., & Shah, Y. (2013). Anti-inflammatory activity of the topical preparation of Valeriana wallichii and Achyranthes aspera leaves. Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 26(3), 451–454.

Mukherjee, H., Ojha, D., Bag, P., Chandel, H. S., Bhattacharyya, S., Chatterjee, T. K., … Chattopadhyay, D. (2013). Anti-herpes virus activities of Achyranthes aspera: An Indian ethnomedicine, and its triterpene acid. Microbiological Research, 168(4), 238–244. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micres.2012.11.002

Rafiqkhan, M., & Saranya. (2013). Pharmacognostic profile and phytochemical investigation on the leaves of Achyranthes aspera. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(3), 368–370.

Rama, P., Vignesh, A., Lakshmanan, G., & Murugesan, K. (2013). IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF ACHYRANTHES ASPERA LINN. International Journal of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3(2), 2250–49.

Sen, M. K., Nasrin, S., Rahman, S., & Jamal, A. H. M. (2014). In vitro callus induction and plantlet regeneration of Achyranthes aspera L., a high value medicinal plant. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 4(1), 40–46. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2221-1691(14)60206-9

Sharma, V., Chaudhary, U., Singh, R., & Agarwal, A. (2013). Achyranthes Aspera: Phytochemical Estimation. J. PharmTech Res. American Journal of PharmTech Research, 3(2).

Siripong, P., Duangporn, P., Takata, E., & Tsutsumi, Y. (2016). Phosphoric acid pretreatment of Achyranthes aspera and Sida acuta weed biomass to improve enzymatic hydrolysis. Bioresource Technology, 203, 303–308. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2015.12.037

Upadhya, V., Ankad, G. M., Pai, S. R., & Hegde, H. V. (2015). Comparative HPTLC analysis of stem and leaf of Achyranthes coynei with Achyranthes aspera. Plant Science Today, 2(1), 7–10. https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.2015.2.1.87

Achillea millefolium

NAME: Achillea millefolium

FAMILY:  Asteraceae

COMMON NAMES: Yarrow, nose-bleed, sneeze-wort, millefoil

LOCAL NAMES: Yaro, nosebleed, plant devil’s nettle, thousand-leaf, sanguinary

USEFUL PARTS: Flowers, leaves, seeds

GENERAL USES

  • It serves as feed for farm animals

  • Ornamental purpose

  • Leaves and flowers are used in making bitter drinks and strong drinks

  • The plant controls soil erosion

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • USA

  • Canada

WHY IS IT GREEN? 

Achillea millefolium medicinal uses include:

  • Haemostatic

  • Wound

  • Astringent

  • Diaphoretic

  • Piles

FURTHER READINGS

Ayoobi, F., Shamsizadeh, A., Fatemi, I., Vakilian, A., Allahtavakoli, M., Hassanshahi, G., & Moghadam-Ahmadi, A. (2017). Bio-effectiveness of the main flavonoids of Achillea millefolium in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders- a review. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 20(6), 604–612. https://doi.org/10.22038/ijbms.2017.8827

De Souza, P., Crestani, S., Da Silva, R. D. C. V., Gasparotto, F., Kassuya, C. A. L., Da Silva-Santos, J. E., & Gasparotto Junior, A. (2013). Involvement of bradykinin and prostaglandins in the diuretic effects of Achillea millefolium L. (Asteraceae). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 149(1), 157–161. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2013.06.015

Jenabi, E., & Fereidoony, B. (2015). Effect of Achillea Millefolium on Relief of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, 28(5), 402–404. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpag.2014.12.008

Kazemi, M. (2015). Chemical composition and antimicrobial, antioxidant activities and anti-inflammatory potential of Achillea millefolium L., Anethum graveolens L., and Carum copticum L. essential oils. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 5(4), 217–222. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hermed.2015.09.001

Kyslychenko, О. А. (2014). Flavonoids Determination in the Aboveground Part of Achillea Millefolium. Український Медичний Альманах., 17(3), 16–18.

Milutinović, M., Radovanović, N., orović, M., Šiler-Marinković, S., Rajilić-Stojanović, M., & Dimitrijević-Branković, S. (2015). Optimisation of microwave-assisted extraction parameters for antioxidants from waste Achillea millefolium dust. Industrial Crops and Products, 77, 333–341. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2015.09.007

Shatnawi, M. A. (2012). Multiplication and cryopreservation of Yarrow (Achillea millefolium L., Asteraceae). Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 15(1), 163–173.

Veryser, L., Taevernier, L., Wynendaele, E., Verheust, Y., Dumoulin, A., & De Spiegeleer, B. (2017). N-alkylamide profiling of Achillea ptarmica and Achillea millefolium extracts by liquid and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis, 7(1), 34–47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpha.2016.09.005

Villanueva-Bermejo, D., Zahran, F., García-Risco, M. R., Reglero, G., & Fornari, T. (2017). Supercritical fluid extraction of Bulgarian Achillea millefolium. The Journal of Supercritical Fluids, 119, 283–288. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.supflu.2016.10.005

 

 

Acanthus montanus

Source:Wikimedia

Source:Wikimedia

NAME:  Acanthus montanus

FAMILY: Acanthacease

COMMON NAMES: Bear's breech, white's ginger, leopard's tongue

LOCAL NAMES: Ahon-ekun, irunmu-arugbo, inyinyiogwu, ogwudurunwashihshi

USEFUL PART(s):  Stem-twig, leaves, roots

 GENERAL USE(s):  

  • Ornamental purpose

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Benin

  • Ghana

  • Nigeria

  • Togo

  • Central African Republic

  • Cameroon

  • Equatorial Guinea

  • Gabon

WHY IS IT GREEN? 

Acanthus montanus medicinal uses include:

  • Syphilis

  • Cough

  • Emetic

  • Urethral discharge

  • Purgative

  • Boils

  • Aneamia

  • Anthelmintics

Source: Wikimedia.org

Source: Wikimedia.org

FURTHER READINGS

Adamu, M., Oshadu, O. D., & Ogbaje, C. I. (2010). Anthelminthic efficacy of aqueous extract of Acanthus montanus leaf against strongylid nematodes of small ruminants. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, 7(4), 279–285. https://doi.org/10.4314/ajtcam.v7i4.56143

Adeyemi, O. O., Okpo, S. O., & Okpaka, O. (2004). The analgesic effect of the methanolic extract of Acanthus montanus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 90(1), 45–48. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2003.09.021

Adeyemi, O. O., Okpo, S. O., & Young-Nwafor, C. C. (1999). The relaxant activity of the methanolic extract of Acanthus montanus on intestinal smooth muscles. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 68(1–3), 169–173. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0378-8741(99)00084-7

Amin, E., Radwan, M. M., El-Hawary, S. S., Fathy, M. M., Mohammed, R., Becnel, J. J., & Khan, I. (2012). Potent insecticidal secondary metabolites from the medicinal plant Acanthus montanus. Records of Natural Products, 6(3), 301–305. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0031-1273570

Anam, E. (1997). Pentacyclic triterpenoids from Acanthus montanus (Acanthaceae). INDIAN JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY SECTION B-ORGANIC CHEMISTRY INCLUDING MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY, 36(1), 110–113.

Asongalem, E. A., Foyet, H. S., Ekobo, S., Dimo, T., & Kamtchouing, P. (2004). Antiinflammatory, lack of central analgesia and antipyretic properties of Acanthus montanus (Ness) T. Anderson. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 95(1), 63–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2004.06.014

Igwe, O. U., & Nnaji, J. C. (2014). Chemical Characterization and Investigation of the Bio-effects of the Leaves of Acanthus montanus (Acanthaceae ) on Some Selected Microorganisms. International Journal of ChemTech Research, 6(14), 5554–5561.

Nana, P., Asongalem, E. A., Foyet, H. S., Folefoc, G. N., Dimo, T., & Kamtchouing, P. (2008). Maternal and developmental toxicity evaluation of Acanthus montanus leaves extract administered orally to Wistar pregnant rats during organogenesis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 116(2), 228–233. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2007.11.021

Noiarsa, P., Ruchirawat, S., & Kanchanapoom, T. (2010). Acanmontanoside, a new phenylethanoid diglycoside from Acanthus montanus. Molecules, 15(12), 8967–8972. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules15128967

Ukwe, C. V., & Ubaka, C. M. (2011). Hypoglycemic activity of leaves of Acanthus montanus T.Anderson (Acanthaceae) in rats. International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, 31(1), 32–36. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13410-010-0011-1

 

 

Adenia venenata

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

NAME: Adenia venenata

FAMILY: Passifloraceae

COMMON NAME(s): Akerbia  

LOCAL NAMES: Dodo, Yaga, Arokeke, oti, gantimi, bambuhi

USEFUL PART(s): Leaves, roots, stem-bark, fruits

GENERAL USE(s):  

  • Ornamental purpose

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Nigeria

  • Djibouti

  • Eritrea

  • Ethiopia

  • Tanzania

  • Somalia

WHY IS IT GREEN?

Adenia venenata medicinal uses include:

  • Cough

  • Bronchitis

  • Urinary tract infections

  • Fever

  • Stem-pulp is an aphrodisiac

  • Syphilis

  • Gonorrhea

  • Analgesic

  • Diuretic

  • Hypertension

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

FURTHER READINGS

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

Crouch, N. R., Smith, G. F., Figueiredo, E., & Styles, D. G. A. (2016). Rediscovery of Adenia natalensis W.J.De Wilde (Passifloraceae) After 150 Years. Haseltonia, 2016–Decem(22). https://doi.org/10.2985/026.022.0101

Polito, L., Bortolotti, M., Pedrazzi, M., Mercatelli, D., Battelli, M. G., & Bolognesi, A. (2016). Apoptosis and necroptosis induced by stenodactylin in neuroblastoma cells can be completely prevented through caspase inhibition plus catalase or necrostatin-1. Phytomedicine, 23(1), 32–41. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2015.11.006

Saganuwan, S. A. (2014). EHMTI-0206. Nigerian plants that are used for treatment of headache and migraine. 4th European Headache and Migraine Trust International Congress, EHMTIC 2014 Copenhagen Denmark, 15(Suppl 1), G33. https://doi.org/10.1186/1129-2377-15-S1-G33

Sun, D. (2016). Traditional chinese medicine for treating iron deficiency anemia due to weakness of the spleen and the stomach and preparation method [Machine Translation]. Faming Zhuanli Shenqing.

Trevisi, P., Miller, B., Patel, D., Bolognesi, A., Bortolotti, M., & Bosi, P. (2017). Two different in vitro tests confirm the blocking activity of D-galactose lectins on the adhesion of Escherichia coli F4 to pig brush border receptors. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 16(1), 101–107. https://doi.org/10.1080/1828051X.2016.1260499

Vaglica, V., Sajeva, M., Noel McGough, H., Hutchison, D., Russo, C., Gordon, A. D., … Smith, M. J. (2017). Monitoring internet trade to inform species conservation actions. Endangered Species Research, 32(1), 223–235. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00803

Varadharajaperumal, P., Subramanian, B., & Santhanam, A. (2017). Biopolymer mediated nanoparticles synthesized from Adenia hondala for enhanced tamoxifen drug delivery in breast cancer cell line. Advances in Natural Sciences: Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 8(3). https://doi.org/10.1088/2043-6254/aa7253

Zhang, Y., Li, Y., Wu, G., Feng, B., Yoell, S., Yu, Z., … Xu, J. (2012). Evidence against Barium in the Mushroom Trogia venenata as a Cause of Sudden Unexpected Deaths in Yunnan, China. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 78(24), 8834–8835. https://doi.org/10.1128/AEM.01798-12

 

 

Acanthospermum hispidum

Source: Wikimedia

Source: Wikimedia

NAME: Acanthospermum hispidum

FAMILY: Compositae

COMMON NAMES: Starburr, bristly starburr, goathead, slingshot weed

LOCAL NAMES: Dangunro-gogoro , kaashinyaawo

USEFUL PART(s): Leaves, whole plant

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION

  • Venezuela

  • Brazil

  • Ghana

  • Benin

  • Colombia

  • Peru

  • Nigeria

  • Uganda

WHY IS IT GREEN? 

 Acanthospermum hispidum medicinal uses include:       

  • Yellow Fever

  • Tuberculosis

  • Stomach disorder

  • Cough

  • Purgative

  • Rheumatism

  • Migraine

OTHER IMPACT

  • Toxic to livestock

  • Thorny fruits of this weed can cause injury to man and animals.

Source: Wikimedia

Source: Wikimedia

FURTHER READINGS

Araújo , L. B. D. C., Silva, S. L., Galvão, M. A. M., Ferreira, M. R. A., Araújo, E. L., Randau, K. P., & Soares, L. A. L. (2013). Total phytosterol content in drug materials and extracts from roots of Acanthospermum hispidum by UV-VIS spectrophotometry. Brazilian Journal of Pharmacognosy, 23(5), 736–742. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0102-695X2013000500004

Chakraborty, A. K., Gaikwad, A. V., & Singh, K. B. (2012). Phytopharmacological review on Acanthospermum Hispidum. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2(1), 144–148.

De Araújo, E. L., Randau, K. P., Sena-Filho, J. G., Mendonça Pimentel, R. M., & Xavier, H. S. (2008). Acanthospermum hispidum DC (Asteraceae): Perspectives for a phytotherapeutic product. Brazilian Journal of Pharmacognosy. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0102-695X2008000500024

Fleischer, T. C., Ameade, E. P. K., & Sawer, I. K. (2003). Antimicrobial activity of the leaves and flowering tops of Acanthospermum hispidum. Fitoterapia, 74(1–2), 130–132. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0367-326X(02)00290-3

Ganfon, H., Bero, J., Tchinda, A. T., Gbaguidi, F., Gbenou, J., Moudachirou, M., … Quetin-Leclercq, J. (2012). Antiparasitic activities of two sesquiterpenic lactones isolated from Acanthospermum hispidum D.C. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 141(1), 411–417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.03.002

Koukouikila-Koussounda, F., Abena, A. A., Nzoungani, A., Mombouli, J. V., Ouamba, J. M., Kun, J., & Ntoumi, F. (2013). In vitro evaluation of antiplasmodial activity of extracts of Acanthospermum hispidum DC (Asteraceae) and Ficus thonningii Blume (Moraceae), two plants used in traditional medicine in the Republic of Congo. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines : AJTCAM / African Networks on Ethnomedicines, 10(2), 270–276.

Panizzi, A. R., & Rossi, C. E. (1991). The role of Acanthospermum hispidum in the phenology of Euschistus heros and of Nezara viridula. Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata, 59(1), 67–74. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1570-7458.1991.tb01487.x