PHYTOCHEMICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE AQUEOUS AND METHANOLIC EXTRACTS OF SOME HERBAL PLANTS IN JOS, NIGERIA
About Authors:
Enegide Chinedu*, David Arome, SolomonF. Ameh
Department of Science Laboratory Technology (Physiology & Pharmacology Technology),
University of Jos, Jos Nigeria.
chinex.snow@gmail.com
Abstract
Phytochemicals are referred to as pharmacologically active substances which are naturally present in plants. However, the effects of various plant preparations in the body when administered, is dependent on the phytochemicals present. Herbal medicine have been said to be the oldest form of medicine and have of recent even gained new momentum due to its advantages.The World Health Organization has recognized that traditional herbal plants may be useful in an integrated health care deliverysystem in several countries. But however to achieve the goal of using both herbal medicine and modern medicine paripassu, there is need for the phytochemical assessment of the plants coupled with pharmacological and toxicological investigations as well. Therefore, the aim of this research is to evaluate the phytochemicals present in the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of some herbal plants in Jos, Nigeria. This study have unveiled the presence of various phytochemcals in the different plant extracts examined. The various phytochemicals present in the extracts includes alkaloids, saponins, tanins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, steroids, cardiac glycosides and anthraquinones. These phytochemicals are known to posses therapeutic and also physiological activity. The test have shown that the plants are useful as they contain phytochemicals capable of producing valuable pharmacological effects. However, further studies aimed at establishing the dosage in which the may produce their pharmacological effects and toxicity should be done. Studies aimed at isolating the phytochemicals and screening their individual effects will also be very useful.
