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Abd. Kakhar Umar
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abdulkaharumar@gmail.com
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sciphy@etflin.com
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Sciences of Phytochemistry
Published by ETFLIN
ISSN : 29625793     EISSN : 2962553X     DOI : https://doi.org/10.58920/sciphy
Sciences of Phytochemistry (SciPhy or Sci Phytochem) is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published by ETFLIN. SciPhy aims to offer a widely visible and highly indexed platform for scholars and intellectuals to share their insights and works. From July 2023 onwards, SciPhy will accept only four types of articles: Research, Review, Mini-review, and Opinion. SciPhy accepts research, review, mini-review, and opinion/perspective that falls within the scope of the journal. SciPhy will publish articles that describes new and relevant findings on the following topics: Phytochemical Analysis Techniques: Reviewing advancements in methodologies for identifying and quantifying phytochemicals in plant samples, such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. Pharmacological Activities of Plant Compounds: Investigating the biological activities of phytochemicals, including their potential as antioxidants, antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory agents, and anticancer compounds. Natural Product Isolation and Characterization: Detailing the extraction, purification, and structural elucidation of bioactive compounds from plants, fungi, and marine organisms. Bioinformatics and Computational Approaches in Phytochemistry: Exploring computational tools and techniques for analyzing phytochemical data, predicting bioactivities, and identifying potential drug candidates from natural sources. Ethnobotany and Traditional Medicine: Examining the ethnopharmacological uses of plants in traditional medicine systems and their relevance to modern drug discovery and development. Phytochemical Diversity in Plant Families: Studying the chemical composition and variability of secondary metabolites across different plant families and genera. Biological Interactions of Phytochemicals: Investigating the interactions between phytochemicals and biological targets, including enzymes, receptors, and cellular pathways. Phytoremediation and Environmental Applications: Discussing the role of plants in detoxifying pollutants, restoring degraded ecosystems, and contributing to sustainable environmental management. Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods: Highlighting the health-promoting properties of phytochemical-rich foods and their potential as functional ingredients in nutraceutical products. Biotechnological Approaches in Phytochemistry: Reviewing biotechnological methods such as plant tissue culture, genetic engineering, and metabolomics for enhancing the production of valuable phytochemicals or developing novel plant-based products.
Articles 69 Documents
Qualitative and Quantitative Phytochemical Constituents, Antioxidant Activities, and Antimicrobial Studies of Methanol Extract of Morinda citrifolia Stem Ogbeide, Osahon Kennedy; Aghedo, Oscar Notoriuwa; Akhidenor, Faith Isimemen; Dibie, Edward Nduka; Iyasele, Julius Uche
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 4 Issue 2
Publisher : ETFLIN Publishing House

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58920/sciphy0402368

Abstract

This study evaluated the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical constituents, antioxidant potential, and antimicrobial properties of Morinda citrifolia stem. The stem extract was prepared using the maceration method with 99.8% methanol for three days at room temperature. Phytochemical and proximate compositions were analyzed using standard methods, while selected minerals were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, and antimicrobial activity was examined by the agar-well diffusion method. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of phenolics, glycosides, steroids, terpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and eugenols. Proximate analysis showed moisture, lipid, protein, ash, fiber, and carbohydrate contents of 18.99%, 9.12%, 4.72%, 6.40%, 37.90%, and 22.87%, respectively. The concentrations of Na, Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn were 7.51 ± 1.60, 126.67 ± 9.43, 91.12 ± 16.12, 7.59 ± 0.63, 3.50 ± 0.65, 0.02 ± 0.003, and 0.26 ± 0.086 mg/kg, respectively. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀ of 49.48 µg/mL, comparable to ascorbic acid (46.56 µg/mL). Antimicrobial testing showed inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus growth, with minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of 500 mg/mL and 50–200 mg/mL, respectively. These results demonstrate that M. citrifolia stem methanol extract possesses significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic and its traditional medicinal applications.
Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Activities of Strobilanthes urens (B. Heyne ex Roth) J.R.I. Wood. Leaf Extract (Acanthaceae) T., Praveen; Kakkalameli, Siddappa B,
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 4 Issue 2
Publisher : ETFLIN Publishing House

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58920/sciphy0402372

Abstract

This study investigated the phytochemical composition and biological activities of Strobilanthes urens leaf extracts. The proximate composition, including protein, carbohydrate, lipid content, nutritive value, and total moisture, was evaluated. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins, tannins, phenols, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides, and carbohydrates in all three extracts, except for steroids in methanol, and both terpenoids and steroids in the distilled water extract. Alkaloids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, and steroids were absent in the chloroform extract. Quantitative analysis confirmed the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, while GC–MS analysis identified 22 major bioactive compounds with potential medicinal properties. Antioxidant activity assessed by the DPPH assay showed IC₅₀ values of 79.23 ± 3.78 µg/mL in methanol and 237.00 ± 12.37 µg/mL in distilled water, with no activity in chloroform. The extracts exhibited antibacterial activity but no significant antifungal effect. Cytotoxicity evaluation by MTT assay showed IC₅₀ values against MCF-7 and HepG2 cell lines ranging from 88.19 ± 8.29 to 188.10 ± 39.99 µg/mL. Overall, the findings highlight the phytochemical richness and potential pharmacological value of S. urens leaf extracts.
Comparative Antioxidant and Antiradical Potentials of Four Curcuma species B., Alansheeja D.; Nair, Mangalam S.
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 4 Issue 2
Publisher : ETFLIN Publishing House

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Abstract

Various species belonging to the genus Curcuma are widely utilised in Asian cuisine and medicine. Among the various Curcuma species, Curcuma longa has well-established therapeutic and antioxidant effects. This study evaluated and compared the antioxidant and antiradical properties of four Curcuma species commonly used in India. The methanolic extracts were tested for DPPH radical scavenging activity, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total antioxidant activity (phosphomolybdenum method and beta-carotene linoleate model), hydrogen peroxide scavenging, reducing power, and metal chelating ability using various in vitro assays. According to the study, Curcuma zedoaria has the strongest antioxidant capacity, whereas Curcuma amada has a high total flavonoid concentration and metal chelating ability. When tested using the phosphomolybdenum technique, Curcuma malabarica had the highest value for antioxidant activity.
Phytochemical and Behavioral Assessment of Guiera senegalensis for Antidepressant Activity Muazu, Ibrahim Khaleel; Nasir, Aisha Balanmalam; Tahir, Albashir
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 4 Issue 2
Publisher : ETFLIN Publishing House

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58920/sciphy0402416

Abstract

Depression is a prevalent and debilitating mental disorder that significantly affects global health and quality of life. Conventional pharmacological treatments have adverse effects, necessitating the search for alternative therapies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential antidepressant activity of the ethanol leaf extract of Guiera senegalensis in Wistar rats. Phytochemical screening was performed to identify bioactive compounds in the extract. Acute toxicity was assessed following OECD guidelines, with doses up to 5000 mg/kg. The antidepressant activity was evaluated using the Forced Swim Test (FST) and Tail Suspension Test (TST). Experimental groups received extract doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, with control groups receiving normal saline and reference groups treated with imipramine (10 mg/kg). Statistical analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA with Dunnett’s post hoc test. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, which are known for their neuropharmacological properties. Acute toxicity testing showed no mortality at 5000 mg/kg, indicating a high safety profile. Behavioral assessments demonstrated that the extract significantly reduced immobility time in the FST and TST at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg (p < 0.05), suggesting antidepressant activity. The ethanol leaf extract of G. senegalensis exhibits both antidepressant effects in animal models, supporting its traditional use in managing mood disorders. The presence of bioactive compounds suggests a pharmacological basis for its efficacy. Further research is needed to elucidate its mechanisms of action and assess its long-term safety.
Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology of Cycas revoluta Thunb.: An Updated Review K, Abdul Jaleel; PS, Prakash; KV, Nakshathra; V, Devika
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 5 Issue 1
Publisher : ETFLIN Publishing House

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Abstract

Cycas revoluta Thunb. (sago palm), a cycad native to southern Japan, is widely cultivated and has a long history of ethnobotanical use, including as a famine food and in traditional medicine, but is also well known for its pronounced toxicity to humans and animals. This review critically synthesizes literature published between 1958–2025 on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of C. revoluta from ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Presented as a structured narrative review, the study highlights diverse phytochemicals, including biflavonoids, cycasin, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), and reported antimicrobial peptides, noting variability in compound verification and reproducibility. Reported pharmacological activities are derived mainly from in vitro and preclinical studies, with limited in vivo validation and no established clinical relevance, whereas toxicological evidence for neurotoxicity, genotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity is robust. This imbalance underscores the need for caution in extrapolating therapeutic potential. Key gaps include inadequate extract standardization, limited bioavailability and safety data, and overreliance on single-study findings. Future research should prioritize rigorous toxicological assessment and reproducible validation before any translational application is considered. In addition, the review emphasizes the importance of distinguishing traditional knowledge from experimentally validated evidence and separating descriptive phytochemical inventories from mechanistic and translational insights. Particular attention is given to methodological limitations, including inconsistent extraction protocols, insufficient structural confirmation of reported compounds, and the frequent absence of dose–response, pharmacokinetic, and long-term safety evaluations. By adopting a critical and balanced perspective, this review aims to guide future studies toward scientifically rigorous, ethically responsible, and clinically relevant research directions.
Comparative Studies on the Elemental Analysis, Proximate Analysis, Antimicrobial Activity and Acute Toxicity Study of Picralima nitida Leaves and Seeds Ogbeide, Osahon Kennedy; Unachukwu, Christabel Ifeoma; Sajere, Onome; Aghedo, Oscar Notoriuwa; Oghomwenrhiere, Osarinmwian; Dibie, Edward Nduka; Okuo, James Majebi
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 5 Issue 1
Publisher : ETFLIN Publishing House

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Abstract

In West African cultures, Picralima nitida has long been used in medicine for providing pain relief, controlling inflammation, reducing fever, and fighting infections. This study compares the elemental and proximate compositions, antimicrobial activities, and acute toxicity of the leaf and seed extracts of P. nitida. The samples were extracted using the cold maceration method. Elemental analysis revealed high levels of magnesium, calcium, and potassium in the leaf extract, while the seed extract contained lower amounts. The leaves also had a higher crude fiber content (15.5%), whereas the seeds were richer in crude protein (19.47%) and ether extract (14.00%). The leaf extract prevented the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa, yet did not affect C. albicans. The seed extract exhibited a broader and stronger inhibitory effect against P. aeruginosa. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of E. coli and P. aeruginosa were both 100 mg/mL (15.00 mm inhibition zone) when tested with the leaf extract, whereas S. aureus had an MIC of 75 mg/mL (13.00 mm inhibition zone). The MICs of the seed extract were 25 mg/mL (9.00 mm inhibition zone) for E. coli and S. aureus, 75 mg/mL (18.40 mm inhibition zone) for P. aeruginosa, and 25 mg/mL (11.20 mm inhibition zone) for C. albicans. For the toxicity tests, the leaf extract appeared safer for animals (mice) with no adverse effect at an LD50 of 800mg/kg, whereas the seed showed a notable adverse effect with an LD50 of ≥283 mg/kg. These experimental findings show the health benefit of P. nitida leaves and seeds in traditional medicines and its potential as an anti-microbial agent and use for dietary purposes.
Phytochemical Analysis, Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Mimusops elengi Bojer Leaf Extract-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles in Albino Mice Ukwubile, Cletus Anes; Clement, Chidi Kaosi
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 5 Issue 1
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Abstract

The present study evaluated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Mimusops elengi Bojer leaf extract encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) using murine models, to determine whether nanoparticle formulation enhances the biological effects of a methanolic plant extract. Preliminary phytochemical screening was conducted using established qualitative colorimetric assays, which indicated the presence of major secondary metabolite classes, including phenolics and flavonoids; these tests were intended for compositional inference rather than definitive compound identification. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were subsequently quantified using spectrophotometric methods, yielding 806.12 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g and 103.08 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g of extract, respectively. Antinociceptive activity was assessed using acetic acid–induced writhing and hot-plate assays, while anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated via the carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Animals treated with M. elengi–loaded CS-NPs exhibited statistically significant reductions in writhing responses, prolonged pain reaction latency, and decreased paw edema when compared with untreated controls and animals receiving the crude extract (p < 0.05). Inflammatory mediator analysis further demonstrated significant downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and PGE₂) alongside upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-22). Oxidative stress assessment showed reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating attenuation of lipid peroxidation. All experiments were conducted with appropriate replication, and data were subjected to statistical analysis to ensure reproducibility. While the phytochemical screening provides preliminary compositional insights, the observed pharmacological effects are attributed to the combined action of extract constituents and improved delivery via chitosan nanoparticles. Overall, the findings support the hypothesis that nanoparticle-based formulation can enhance the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory efficacy of M. elengi leaf extract, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapeutic approach while underscoring the need for further compound-level characterization and safety evaluation.
Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity in Sorghum bicolor Leaves Extracts Clark, Poro David; Ndukwe, Gloria Ihuoma; Awatefe, Kehinde Jonathan
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 5 Issue 1
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Abstract

This study investigated the phytochemical composition and in-vitro antioxidant potential of leaves extracts from Sorghum bicolor, which were obtained through sequential maceration with solvents of different polarities (n-hexane and methanol). The extraction yields revealed a predominance of polar compounds, with methanol extract (12.5% w/w) significantly higher than the n-hexane extract (1.7% w/w). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) profiling, using NIST library matching (similarity scores >80%) without reference standards, showed distinct patterns based on solvent use: the n-hexane extract contained nine primarily lipophilic compounds, mainly consisting of Z-2-octadecen-1-ol and octadecenoic acid derivatives, whereas the methanol extract yielded fifteen characterized by polar fatty acids and oxygenated derivatives. Identifications were tentative; those with lower match scores or inconsistent retention times required confirmation through alternative methods. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated via 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, hydroxyl radical inhibitory activity (HRIA), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The methanol extract demonstrated concentration-dependent DPPH scavenging (IC₅₀ = 0.1402 mg/L), comparable to vitamin C (0.1369 mg/L) in this assay, while the n-hexane extract showed weaker activity (IC₅₀ 3.22 mg/L). In HRIA and FRAP assays, vitamin C consistently showed greater activity than either extract, with n-hexane IC50 estimates constrained by poor curve fits (R2<0.9). Overall, the methanol extract surpassed the n-hexane extract across all assays but did not match the effectiveness of vitamin C. These in-vitro results suggest that S. bicolor leaves contain polar phytochemicals that merit further fractionation, compound-level characterization, and evaluation in biologically relevant models to elucidate their potential as sources of natural antioxidants.
A Computational Investigation of Cathinone, the Major Psychotropic Alkaloid from Muguka (a Cultivar of Catha edulis), Co-administered with Diazepam Rajab, Mohamed Said
Sciences of Phytochemistry Volume 5 Issue 1
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Abstract

Muguka, a high-cathinone cultivar of Catha edulis consumed widely in East Africa, presents a growing health risk when co-administered with diazepam. This theoretical study represents one of the first integrated computational investigations focusing on the interaction between Muguka derived cathinone and diazepam, combining molecular docking, ADMET profiling, and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling. The in silico analysis identified overlapping CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 pathways, supporting potential mutual metabolic inhibition. The predictive PBPK models suggest moderate CYP2D6/CYP2C19-mediated drug-drug interactions based on a simulated oral dose of 100 mg cathinone and 30 mg diazepam in a human adult population. Co-administration is predicted to increase cathinone systemic exposure by 1.5-fold (AUC ↑50%) and reduce clearance by 33%, while diazepam exposure is projected to rise by 1.3-fold (AUC ↑30%) with 24% clearance reduction. Molecular docking revealed high-affinity binding of cathinone (-6.4 kcal/mol) at the dopamine transporter (DAT) and diazepam (-6.8 kcal/mol) at the γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABA-A) receptor, indicating distinct yet potentially complementary CNS targets. Collectively, these computational predictions suggest that co-use may prolong CNS exposure and theoretically enhance neurotoxicity, and dependence risk. This integrated computational framework provides a hypothetical mechanistic evidence for stimulant-benzodiazepine interactions and underscores the need for clinical monitoring and validation.