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A tropical and subtropical plant species found in Asia, Africa, and Australia, Microcos paniculata is also known as the Chinese box tree or orange jasmine. Microcos paniculata is the subject of this review, which delves into its taxonomy, phytochemistry, pharmacological actions, and medicinal uses. The pharmacological effects of the plant include larvicidal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic effects. The plant is rich in secondary metabolites, which include alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. New scientific research confirms the traditional uses of Microcos paniculata, which have been used for a long time in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and TCM to treat a variety of health issues. But should be careful, because there can be negative consequences from taking too much. When used as directed, the plant has shown no ill effects in toxicological testing. In order to incorporate Microcos paniculata into clinical practice and fully grasp its therapeutic potential, additional study is necessary.
ABSTRACT:
A tropical and subtropical plant species found in Asia, Africa, and Australia, Microcos paniculata is also known as the Chinese box tree or orange jasmine. Microcos paniculata is the subject of this review, which delves into its taxonomy, phytochemistry, pharmacological actions, and medicinal uses. The pharmacological effects of the plant include larvicidal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic effects. The plant is rich in secondary metabolites, which include alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. New scientific research confirms the traditional uses of Microcos paniculata, which have been used for a long time in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and TCM to treat a variety of health issues. But should be careful, because there can be negative consequences from taking too much. When used as directed, the plant has shown no ill effects in toxicological testing. In order to incorporate Microcos paniculata into clinical practice and fully grasp its therapeutic potential, additional study is necessary.
KEYWORDS: Microcos Paniculata, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Phenolic Compounds, South Asia, etc.
INTRODUCTION:
Medicinal plants are becoming more popular due to their distinctive traits, including their abundance of phytochemicals that may be used to create innovative drugs. Phytochemicals derived from plants, such as flavonoids and phenolics, are known to promote health and reduce the risk of developing cancer1. These natural materials, such as plant extracts2, have novel potential for drug development. Over 80 percent of the world's population reportedly uses herbal remedies, and most developing nations acknowledge traditional medicine and medicinal plants as a normative foundation for good health3. Vegetables include a number of compounds that have the potential to treat viral and chronic illnesses4. Because bacteria are resistant to chemical treatments, we shifted our focus to ethnopharmacognosy. There are several phytochemicals that have biological effects, such as anticancer, antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiarrheal, analgesic, and wound healing properties. The phytochemicals in question possess a variety of biological characteristics. Herbal therapies derived from plants have a long and storied history of usage in medicine, with documented cases of their use spanning the dawn of human history and continuing into the present day. Researchers believe systematic inquiry has discovered around 75% of the important bioactive plant-derived medications used worldwide5. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines traditional medicine as "The total combination of methods and practice, whether explicable or inexplicable, used in the diagnosis, prevention, or elimination of mental, physical, or even social diseases6." Traditional medicine is a medical system that has existed for centuries. People use traditional medicine to treat a wide range of illnesses, including mental, physical, and even societal conditions. It is hard to overestimate the importance of the use of traditional medicine in a range of therapeutic techniques by indigenous people all over the world7. This is due to the fact that eighty percent of the world's population seeks treatment via traditional medicine. Whenever your immune system detects an infection or damage, it will initiate an inflammatory reaction. These responses have the potential to impair the normal functioning of your body's physiological systems, resulting in pain, fever, and edema. Chemical mediators produced by injured tissue and migrating cells may cause inflammation. A common side effect of using nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to treat inflammatory diseases is the development of stomach ulcers. Materials found in nature may modulate pathways that cause inflammation8. Fever, also known as pyrexia, can have various causes such as inflammation, transplant rejection, malignancy, and tissue damage. It stimulates the hypothalamus, promoting the synthesis of cytokines and prostaglandin E2 (PGE). The symptoms include sorrowful glances, fatigue, obliviousness, eating disorders, and feeling drained. Antipyretics inhibit PGE2 formation and COX- 2 expression, thereby decreasing fever. Synthetic chemicals may have harmful effects on certain regions, but they also demonstrate selectivity and long-lasting inhibition of COX-2. Non-synthetic COX-2 inhibitors may have reduced selectivity9.
Microcos paniculata, a plant belonging to the Tiliaceae family, is often known as 'Kathgua' or 'Fattashi' in Bangladesh. It naturally grows as a shrub or small tree in Bangladesh's wild and human-managed environments. Microcos paniculata's phytochemical composition demonstrates its therapeutic potential via a diverse range of secondary metabolites. The plant contains a variety of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and other bioactive chemicals, all of which contribute to its pharmacological activity and therapeutic benefits. Within this group of substances, alkaloids such as vasicine, vasicinone, and vasicinol demonstrate the ability to widen the bronchial tubes and fight against microorganisms. On the other hand, flavonoids like quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin display qualities that may prevent damage from oxidation, reduce inflammation, and perhaps inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Some phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, caffeic acid, and ellagic acid, help the plant fight free radicals and bacteria. Other terpenoids, such as β-sitosterol and lupeol, protect the liver, reduce inflammation, and fight cancer. The combined effects of these plant compounds are the basis of Microcos paniculata's healing abilities, providing a comprehensive approach to promoting health and well-being. From a pharmacological perspective, Microcos paniculata is a valuable source of bioactivity, providing several therapeutic possibilities. Its pharmacological properties include antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic effects14. Researchers have conducted extensive research on these qualities in both laboratory settings and living organisms, revealing encouraging findings that underscore its potential as a valuable source of new medicinal substances and potential drugs. A thorough review of the research shows that M. paniculata has many effects, such as larvicidal, scavenging free radicals, killing bacteria, reducing the toxicity of brine shrimp, relieving pain, stopping α- glucosidase, damaging cells, and possibly preventing coronary heart disease and angina pectoris10-13. Many cultures and geographical areas have long esteemed Microcos paniculata for its therapeutic qualities. Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and African traditional medicine are among the systems that have long used this plant to address a range of health conditions14. Traditional medicine has used Microcos paniculata to treat a wide range of health conditions, including respiratory illnesses, gastrointestinal ailments, skin diseases, and reproductive issues. Its use is based on millennia of empirical knowledge and cultural history15. In this comprehensive review, we embark on an exploration of Microcos paniculata, delving into its taxonomy, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and medicinal applications.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
For establishing this several of web portals were used. We focus on the information on M. paniculata from several sources, including a library database, Google, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and the Web of Science.
Plant Description:
Microcos paniculata, also known as the Chinese box tree or Orange Jasmine, is a beautiful East Asian evergreen shrub or small tree. People value this plant for its decorative characteristics, particularly its glossy, dark green leaves that emit a delicious, lemony scent when crushed. Its little, star-shaped, white blooms have a fascinating scent and bloom in spring and sometimes throughout the year. These clustered blossoms look beautiful against the thick vegetation. Chinese box trees grow densely and bushy, making them ideal for hedging, topiary, and decorative shrubs in gardens and landscapes. They are versatile and aromatic outdoor plants that grow in full sun to partial shade, are low-maintenance, and adapt to a variety of soil types16. (table-1).
Geographical Distribution:
Microcos paniculata is a globally distributed species that grows in tropical and subtropical climates. It grows naturally and abundantly across Bangladesh's entire region. The species is indigenous and widely spread over India, Andaman and Nicobar (Andaman Islands), Sri Lanka, China, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Microcos paniculata is indigenous to various Asian nations, including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It frequently lives in tropical forests, grasslands, and disturbed habitats. The plant's ability to thrive in various environments often leads to its presence in both rural and urban areas. Many African states, including Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar, distribute Microcos paniculata. It often flourishes in savannas, forests, and riverbanks, serving several ecological roles and providing abundant supplies for local populations. The northern regions of Australia, particularly the Northern Territory and Queensland, are home to Microcos paniculata. This plant inhabits tropical and subtropical environments, enhancing the variety of native ecosystems and serving as a source of food and shelter for animals. Being a diversified plant species, Microcos paniculata demonstrates remarkable versatility and resilience, which makes it a useful resource in the fields of medicine, agriculture, and conservation across a wide range of temperatures and ecosystems17.
TAXONOMY AND MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION:
Microcos paniculata is classified as a member of the Malvaceae family based on its taxonomy (TABLE-2). It showcases unique botanical characteristics and patterns of growth. Microcos paniculata is a deciduous shrub or small tree that usually grows to heights between 4 and 8 meters. The trunk of the tree is often narrow and made of wood, with branches that spread out to create a dense covering of leaves. Microcos paniculata's foliage is characterized by uncomplicated, non-overlapping, and elongated oval forms. Their dimensions usually range from 5 to 12 centimeters in length and 2 to 5 centimeters in width, featuring serrated edges and pronounced veins18.
The leaf surface is sleek, lustrous, and tough, providing resistance to environmental pressures. The plant, Microcos paniculata, earns its name by producing small, inconspicuous flowers in terminal panicles. The flowers of this species are commonly yellowish-white in color and do not possess the flamboyance sometimes seen in other decorative plants. Although unassuming in appearance, Microcos paniculata's flowers are vital for pollination and reproduction. They serve as a magnet for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths. After pollination, the blooms produce small, round fruits called capsules. The capsules contain several seeds enclosed in a reddish-brown pulp, which acts as a nutrient-rich substance for dispersing the seeds. The seeds are diminutive, ebony-hued, and oval in form, featuring a durable outer layer that safeguards them throughout dispersion and sprouting19. Microcos paniculata is geographically widespread, occurring in tropical and subtropical climates throughout continents including Asia, Africa, and Australia. It flourishes in a wide range of environments, including woods and grasslands, showcasing its capacity to adapt to many soil types and climatic circumstances. It is a hardy and versatile species that can adapt to many habitats and successfully establish itself in new locations, even in the face of changing ecological conditions. Microcos paniculata showcases the diversity and ecological importance of plant life, providing valuable resources and services to global ecosystems20.
ETHNOMEDICINAL USAGE:
Traditional uses for Microcos paniculata span many cultures. The Ayurvedic and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) systems of medicine make use of this plant's various parts-leaves, stems, and roots-to treat a wide range of ailments, from skin problems to fevers. Additional validation of its traditional medicinal applications has been provided by scientific study that indicates this chemical has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory characteristics21. To improve the flavor and nutritional content of food, some cultures employ the plant's delicate branches in the kitchen. In some parts of the world, Microcos paniculata is used as animal feed in addition to its culinary and medicinal uses. It also has symbolic meaning in religious ceremonies. Its cultural and practical importance across eras is highlighted by the wide range of traditional uses for this object.
PHYTOCHEMISTRY:
Phytochemically, Microcos paniculata is composed of several secondary metabolites. So far, researchers have discovered and identified a total of 70 chemicals from the extracts of MPL's leaves, fruits, barks, and roots. These compounds include 30 flavonoids, 11 alkaloids, 10 triterpenoids, 9 organic acids, 3 steroids, and 7 miscellaneous compounds22. The compounds mentioned are recorded and included in Figure-1. The methods used for phytochemical analysis and the identification of physiologically active compounds are also covered. Furthermore, the pharmacological significance of these phytochemicals is highlighted in this part, which investigates their therapeutic advantages. This section sheds light on the medicinal properties and pharmacological activities of Microcos paniculata by elucidating its phytochemical composition.
Some of the more interesting chemical classes found in Microcos paniculata are alkaloids. Researchers have identified a number of alkaloids from the plant, including vasicine, vasicinone, and vasicinol23. These alkaloids exhibit a wide variety of pharmacological effects, including bronchodilation, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory24. Among the many phytochemicals discovered in Microcos paniculata, flavonoids stand out. Flavonoids such as rutin, quercetin, and kaempferol have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer capabilities25. Because it contains phenolic components like gallic acid, caffeic acid, and ellagic acid, Microcos paniculata possesses antibacterial and antioxidant properties. According to research, terpenoids such as β- sitosterol and lupeol help prevent liver damage, decrease inflammation, and combat cancer. In addition to tannins, saponins, and polysaccharides, Microcos paniculata includes several physiologically active compounds that contribute to its therapeutic qualities26.
PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES:
This section presents an overview of the pharmacological activity of Microcos paniculata. These activities include antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and hepatoprotective characteristics. We discuss the mechanisms of action, possible therapeutic uses, and clinical applications, along with the findings of in vitro and in vivo experiments.
Analgesic Activity:
The ethanolic extract of Microcos Paniculata L. leaves was tested for analgesia in mice using the acetic acid-induced writhing paradigm. The experimental animals were randomly assigned to four 10-animal groups. Control group I got 1% (v/v) Tween 80 in water. Group II got 25 mg/kg diclofenac sodium as the positive control. Group III got 250 mg/kg of body weight of Microcos Paniculata L. leaf ethanolic extract, whereas Group IV received 500 mg/kg. Before injecting 0.7% acetic acid into the abdomen, the vehicle control, conventional medicine, and ethanolic extracts were administered orally for 30 minutes. Five minutes were spent counting writhes (squirms) after 15 minutes28.
Anti-hyperlipidemic Activity:
SUN et al.29 found that a 95% alcohol extract of MPL leaves (7.8 g. kg-1, i.g.) effectively reduced TC (Total Cholesterol) and TG (Triglycerides) levels in mice with hyperlipidemia (HLP) after 7 days of therapy. According to another research, MPL leaves' total alkaloid percentage may alter blood lipids in different ways. HLP rats administered the alkaloid portion (600 and 900 mg.kg-1, i.g.) of these leaves showed substantial increases in ApoAI (Apolipoprotein A-I), LCTA (Long-Chain Triacylglycerol), SOD (Superoxide Dismutase), and NO (Nitric Oxide) levels30. Following 14 days of treatment with 187.5 mg.kg-1.d-1 (i.g.) flavonoid glycosides from MPL leaves in HLP mice, LDL-C, TC, and TG levels were dropped, while HDL-C levels significantly increased31. The exact procedure and chemical analysis of these fractions in MPL leaves were unknown, and the alkaloids and flavonoids extracted may have been too high.
Antipyretic Activity:
Brewer's yeast-treated animals' body temperatures increased significantly after consuming bark (200 and 400 mg kg-1) and fruit (400 mg.kg-1) methanol extracts. These extracts reduced PG production and were powerful antipyretics32. In a rat model of dry yeast-induced fever, MPL leaf aqueous extract (8.4 and 16.8 g/kg) normalized body temperature. A study by DAI33 examined the impact of n-butanol (23.4 g/kg) and water fractions (5.85, 11.7, and 23.4 g/kg) from MPL leaves on jaundice in mice with α-naphthyl isothiocyanateinduced cholesta A large decline in blood total bilirubin (T-BiL), direct bilirubin (D-BiL), ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase), AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), and ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) compared to the control group revealed these components may aid with jaundice34. Although these investigations only employed one dosage of MPL leaf extract in the n-butanol fraction, the doses were substantial. We need additional research to determine whether MPL leaves are antipyretic and jaundice-relieving.
Anti-inflammatory Activity:
Microcos paniculata has been extensively studied and proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant extracts and chemicals inhibit the synthesis of inflammatory mediators and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammatory responses and alleviating inflammatory disorders such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. The IC50 values for the fruits aqueous, methanol, and bark extracts were 285.47, 201.55, and 61.31 µg.mL-1, respectively, whereas the positive control, aspirin, had an IC50 of 24.46 µg.mL-1. Aziz35 found that methanolic extracts of MPL barks and fruits (200 and 400 mg.kg-1) suppressed inflammation better than diclofenac sodium (positive control), with the fruit methanolic extract (400 mg.kg-1) showing the highest inhibition of 36.97% for ear edema and 45.96% for granuloma formation. At the molecular level, LI et al.36 examined the anti-inflammatory effects of MPL leaf apigenin C-glycosides (10, 20, and 40 mg.kg-1) in mice with LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Apigenin Cglycosides reduce ALI by altering TLR4/TRPC6, lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines, and regulating apoptosis-related proteins. The structure-activity connection of apigenin C-glycosides and their ability to reduce ALI require further investigation. The therapy for MPL bark, fruit, and fruit allergies may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory properties. Oral therapy with MPL bark and fruit methanol extract (200 and 400 mg.kg-1) substantially decreased formalin-induced paw licking in mice37. Hydro-methanol, petroleum benzene, and ethanol extracts of MPL barks (200-400 mg.kg-1) and leaves (250-500 mg.kg-1) reduced acetic acid-induced mouse writhing. In a mouse tail immersion test, barks with petroleum benzene extract (200 and 400 mg.kg-1) showed a significant increase in latency at 30 min, while barks with methanol (400 mg.kg-1) and fruits with methanol extract (200 and 400 mg.kg-1) showed a significant increase at 60 min compared to the control group. Mice treated with hydro methanol and petroleum benzene extracts (200 mg.kg-1) from MPL barks showed a substantial increase in reaction latency at 30 min compared to the control group38. However, the mechanism of its analgesic effect requires additional study.
Cardiovascular Protective Activity:
MPL leaves were studied in relation to rats that had acute myocardial ischemia (AMI) caused by isoprenaline (ISO) by Chen et al.39. Following a daily administration of flavonoids extracted from MPL leaves at doses of 4 and 8 mg.kg-1 for a duration of 5 days, the downward J spot on the electrocardiogram (ECG) caused by ischemia was effectively suppressed within 10 minutes of injecting ISO. Furthermore, flavonoids had a substantial impact on reducing the levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) in the bloodstream. The heart tissue then experienced a drop in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels. These data suggest that the antioxidant activity of MPL leaves may contribute to their anti-AMI bioactivity. However, the research could not identify the specific bioactive components responsible for the cardiovascular preventive effects of MPL extracts.
Hepatoprotective Activity:
Microcos paniculata has hepatoprotective action, which means it can protect the liver from harmful substances and enhance liver healing. A study by WU et al.40 examined the effects of the polyphenol-rich fraction from MPL leaves on oxidative stress and APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. The study found that the 400 mg.kg-1 fraction has hepatoprotective properties, primarily by regulating ROS/MAPKs/apoptosis and Nrf-2-related factor-mediated antioxidant response. MPL leaves may have therapeutic promise as a natural and functional dietary element for preventing oxidative stress-induced liver damage. However, the research employed an excessive amount of MPL leaves extract (15 g.kg-1) due to the extraction technique.
Antidiarrheal Activity:
An investigation on the antidiarrheal properties of MPL fruits was carried out by Aziz et al.41. Based on the findings, it was determined that the chloroform extract of MPL fruits had antidiarrheal action in both the castor oil and MgSO4 caused diarrheal models. In the case of castor oil-induced diarrheal mode in mice, the inhibition of defecation was seen to be 77.78% and 83.33%, respectively, when the dose of MPL fruits was administered at 200 and 400 mg.kg-1 (i. g.). During the MgSO4 induced diarrheal model, the suppression of defecation was seen to be 80.65% and 90.32%, respectively, when administered at doses of 200 and 400 mg.kg-1 (i.g). According to the findings of another investigation, Moushome et al. investigated the effectiveness of hydromethanol and petroleum benzene extracts of MPL barks in preventing diarrhea. When conducting a test to induce diarrhea in mice, the administration of hydromethanol extract and petroleum benzene extract at doses of 200 and 400 mg.kg-1 resulted in the production of antidiarrheal activity. The hydromethanol extract of MPL barks, when administered at a dosage of 400 mg.kg-1, demonstrated the largest and most significant percentage of inhibition of diarrhea, which was 62.95 percent. When the MgSO4 induced diarrheal test was conducted, it was seen that all of the extracts, when administered at dosages of 200 and 400 mg.kg-1, exhibited a substantial reduction in the overall quantity of diarrheal feces. The petroleum benzene extract of MPL barks, when administered at a dosage of 400 mg.kg-1, demonstrated the highest and most significant percentage of inhibition of diarrhea, which was found to be 68.12%. In spite of this, the highest doses of MPL bark extracts that were examined were still shown to be less efficacious than the positive control, which was loperamide HCL, in both clinical models of diarrhea.
In addition, Rahman et al.42 discovered that administering methanol extract of MPL leaves to mice at doses of 200 and 400 mg.kg-1 intraperitoneally (i.p.) was able to considerably reduce both diarrhea and enteropooling. During the charcoal meal test, the extract was shown to have a significant impact on gastrointestinal motility. The inhibition rate was 20.34% at 200 mg.kg-1 and 29.49% at 400 mg.kg-1 (i.p.), respectively. In contrast, the inhibition rate of loperamide HCL (5 mg.kg-1, i.p.) was 40.52%. In contrast to the conventional decoction, these MPL extracts were obtained by the use of organic solvents, which deviated from the conventional method.
Larvicidal Assay:
Lab-grown C. quinquefasciatus was used to investigate larvicidal activities. The larvae were nourished with yeast tablets in chlorine-free water at 26-18 degrees Celsius with 75% relative humidity. They had 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. Larvicidal activity against C. quinquefasciatus was assessed using the method reported43, with minor modifications. In summary, 40 early fourth-instar larvae were placed in a 100 ml glass beaker with 35 ml dechlorinated water and 0.5 ml acetone-dissolved compounds. Three replicates per concentration were done simultaneously. A control solution was made by mixing 0.5 ml acetone with 35 ml dechlorinated water. 24 hours after treatment, Abbott's formula calculated mortality. The LC50, regression equation, upper and lower confidence limits (95% confidence level), and Chi-square values were calculated using probit analysis. Mean mortality of three replicates at each concentration and control was calculated, and LC50-the concentration that causes 50% mortality- was found. Compounds 1 and 2 have LC50 values of 5.2 and 17.0 mg/ml. The chi-square results were statistically significant at P < 0.05.
Antimicrobial Assay:
The agar disc diffusion method is employed as an in vitro technique to initially screen test bacteria44. The Petri plates were prepared by submitting them to autoclave treatment at a temperature of 121°C for 15 minutes. Afterwards, the plates were cooled using a Laminar air flow system. Each sterile Petri plate was aseptically filled with 20cc of medium, causing it to solidify. In order to evenly distribute the bacteria, a sterile glass rod was utilized to scatter 1 ml of the inoculum suspension uniformly across the agar substrate. Without delay, aseptic discs were filled with accurate quantities of plant extracts and carefully inserted into the growth medium. Subsequently, a 1-hour incubation period at 5°C was conducted to achieve optimal diffusion. Again, the incubation process was carried out for a period of 24 hours at a temperature of 37°C. The antibacterial activity was assessed by quantifying the observable area of bacterial growth inhibition surrounding the disc.
Anthelmintic Assay:
An anthelmintic test was performed using a slightly modified Ajaiyeoba et al., 2001 technique45. Due to its anatomical and physiological similarities to the human colon roundworm parasite, the experiment used the adult earthworm Pheretima posthuma46,47. Each of the three groups got 50 mg/mL earthworms and 50 mL samples. Earthworms in 0.9% NaCl were controls and those in piperazine citrate (10 mg/mL) were standards. The timing of each worm's paralysis and death was recorded. Paralyzed worms are immobile until a severe shake. When the worms stopped moving after intense shaking or immersion in 50°C water, it is understood that they died.
Anti-diabetic Activity:
Aziz et al.48 investigated the inhibitory impact of chloroform and aqueous MPL fruit extracts on α- amylase. These drugs showed IC50 values of 1262.82 and 1367.56 µg.mL-1, while acarbose had an IC50 of 785.84 µg.mL-1. Chen et al.49 examined the reaction of α-amylase, vitexin, isovitexin, and narcissin in a 70% methanol extract of MPL leaves. These drugs had IC50 values of 61.30 µg.mL-1, 244.0, 266.2, and 275.4 µmol.L-1, while acarbose had 1007.0 µmol.L-1. MPL compounds' potential to combat diabetes requires further research in real organisms, as previous studies have only examined their effectiveness in preventing α-amylase in test tubes50.
Other Activities:
The chloroform extract (200 and 400 mg.kg-1) greatly decreased locomotor activity, which suggests that it had a calming effect on the central nervous system, as shown by the open field and hole cross tests done on MPL fruits in mice. Using diazepam (1 mg/kg) as a standard medication. Additionally, as an external preparation for the skin, Dohi et al.51 documented the anti-aging bioactivity of a 50% ethanol extract of MPL leaves. Research on MPL leaves has the potential to inform the creation of skin care and cosmetic products that are in line with the plant's antioxidant properties.
Toxicological Studies and Safety Considerations:
Microcos paniculata is typically safe when used in recommended doses, but excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic responses, and hepatotoxicity. It is important to use this product under the guidance of healthcare professionals and adhere strictly to the approved dosage guidelines. Individuals who are pregnant, nursing, or have preexisting medical conditions should exercise caution. It is important to take into account any medication interactions with the plant51.
Acute Toxicity in Mice:
In order to have a better understanding of the general safety profile of traditional herbal medicines, toxicological investigations were essential. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners have widely used MPL leaves not only as an edible health care food and herbal tea, but also in the preparation of Chinese medicinal formulas. Only a few clinical studies on its hazardous or adverse effects were available. In accordance with the recommendations established by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), it was discovered that mice treated with a dosage of up to 4000 mg.kg-1 of both bark methanolic and fruit chloroform extracts of MPL did not exhibit any evidence of toxicity or behavioral alterations over a period of 14 days35,50,51.
Cytotoxicity Test:
Brine shrimps were harvested for the cytotoxicity test after 48 hours of incubation 5 milligrams of Artemia Salina eggs in natural seawater at 29°C50. Before usage, the larvae (nauplii) were kept in seawater for 48 hours to grow and survive. Six plant extract concentrations in 5% DMSO and/or seawater were tested: 20, 40, 60, 80, 120, and 140 Pg/ml. For duplicate testing, 10 ml of each extract mixture was dispensed into clean test tubes. DMSO concentrations in all vials were < 10 Pl/ml. Except for test samples, the control group followed the same protocol. After marking the test tubes, live shrimp were pipetted into each of the 20 vials51. After a 24-hour incubation in a 29°C water bath, the sample and control tubes were examined for surviving nauplii. From this, the death rate at each concentration was calculated.
CONCLUSION:
Microcos paniculata possesses a rich phytochemical profile and diverse pharmacological activities, making it a valuable resource in traditional and modern medicine. This comprehensive review has provided insights into the taxonomy, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and medicinal applications of Microcos paniculata, synthesizing information from diverse sources to present a holistic understanding of this plant species. By highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits and safety considerations, this review contributes to a better understanding of Microcos paniculata and its role in healthcare and medicine. Moving forward, further research is warranted to explore its full therapeutic potential and facilitate its integration into clinical practice.
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