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Strobilanthes glutinosus (family: Acanthaceae) is one of the important medicinal plants and the current research work was carried out to assess the phytochemical, biological, and in-silico evaluations of different solvent extracts of S. glutinosus. The phytochemical composition was assessed by determining qualitative phytochemical testing, total bioactive contents, and GC-MS analysis. For biological evaluation, antioxidant (DPPH and FRAP), antibacterial, and enzyme inhibition (urease) potential were determined. The methanol extract was found to contain the highest total phenolic (247.85 mg GAE/g extract), and flavonoid content (71.91 mg QAE/g extract), which can be correlated to the observed higher antioxidant potential of this extract. On the contrary, the n-hexane extract presented maximum anti-urease activity with IC50 value of 0.244 mg/ml, whereas, in the case of antibacterial assays, a dose-dependent activity was observed. Similarly, the GC-MS investigation of methanol extract and n-hexane fraction revealed the tentative identification of several important classes of secondary metabolites. Furthermore, the main compounds as identified by GC-MS were further studied for in-silico molecular docking studies in order to highlight any interactions between the compounds identified and the urease enzyme. Overall, the present investigation highlighted the studied plant extracts to be considered further for the isolation of bioactive compounds for the pharmaceutical and food industry.

Androgenic alopecia is a common type of hair loss, usually caused by testosterone metabolism generating dihydrotestosterone and hair follicular micro-inflammation. These processes induce dermal papilla cells to undergo apoptosis. Currently approved effective medications for alopecia are Finasteride, an oral 5α-reductase inhibitor, Minoxidil, a topical hair growth promoter, and Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory agent, all of which, however, have several adverse side effects. In our study, we showed the bioactivity of Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl. (AE) extract performed by 95% ethanol, and verbascoside (VB), a biomarker of AE extract. Both AE extract and VB were studied for their effects on dermal papilla cell viability and the cell cycle by using MTT assay and flow cytometry. The effect of an anti-inflammatory activity of AE extract and VB on IL-1β, NO, and TNF-α, released from LPS induced RAW 264.7 cells, and IL-1α and IL-6 released from irradiated dermal papilla cells were detected using ELISA technique. The preventive effect on dermal papilla cell apoptosis induced by testosterone was determined by MTT assay. In controlled in vitro assays it was found that AE extract and VB at various concentrations induced dermal papilla cell proliferation which was indicated by an increase in the number of cells in the S and G2/M phases of the cell cycle. AE extract at 250 µg/mL concentration or VB at 62.50 µg/mL concentration prevented cell apoptosis induced by testosterone at a statistically significant level. In addition, both AE extract and VB greatly inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines from RAW 264.7 and dermal papilla cells. The release of IL-1β, TNF-α, and NO from RAW 264.7 cells, as well as IL-1α and IL-6 from dermal papilla cells, was also diminished by AE extract 250 µg/mL and VB 125 µg/mL. Our results indicate that AE extract and VB are promising ingredients for anti-hair loss applications. However, further clinical study is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of AE extract and VB as treatment for actual hair loss.

Plant species belonging to the family Acanthaceae are globally known to possess various medicinal properties and have cultural and economic importance in both traditional medicine and horticulture. They are important to both animals and humans and are used as food or for ornamental purposes worldwide. Barleria is the third largest genus in the family Acanthaceae. A few of the highly important and reported species of Barleria include B. prionitis, B. cristata, B. grandiflora, and B. lupulina. The flowers, leaves, stems, roots, and seed extracts of plants belonging to this genus are rich in bioactive compounds and have exhibited significant medicinal potential for the treatment of various ailments and infections. Evidence derived from several studies has demonstrated the antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antiamoebic, antihelminthic, antiarthritic, antihypertensive, antiviral properties and toxicity of extracts, in addition inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity and biosynthesis of nanoparticles, of the plant and seed extracts of species belonging to Barleria. Studies have reported that bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, quinones, iridoids, phenylethanoid glycosides, the immunostimulant protein “Sankaranin”, and antibiotics isolated from Barleria species are resposnsible for the above biological activities. Traditionally, the genus Barleria has significant medicinal potential; however, there is a scarcity of information on various species that are yet to be evaluated. This review provides a comprehensive report on existing literature, concerning the phytochemistry and biological activities of the genus Barleria.

This study investigated the phytochemical constituents and evaluated the total phenolic content, it also determined the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the ethanol (EtOH) extract of the whole plant of Dicliptera verticillata. The phytochemical study was carried out using repeated silica gel column chromatography followed by Sephadex LH-20 to purify the extract which afforded three known compounds: lutein (1), shikimic acid (2) and guaiacylglycerol (3). The structures of these compounds were identified after analyses of their NMR and MS data and comparison of these data with those reported in the literature. The antioxidant and antibacterial activities were evaluated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical assay and the broth macrodilution method, respectively. The EtOH extract showed moderate antioxidant activity (63.9%; IC50 40.16 μg/mL), weak total phenolic content and had a bactericidal effect against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli). This is the first report on the isolation of compounds (1–3), as well as the total phenolic content and the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the EtOH extract of D. verticillata.

Stenosiphonium russellianum Nees. is rarely known species belongs to the family Acanthaceae and it is a shrub, found above 500m on slopes of mountain. It was traditionally used for wound healing in and as blood purifier. The current study designed to provide the requisite pharmacognostical and phytochemical properties of Stenosiphonium russellianum. Pharmacognostical studies like microscopic and macroscopic analysis of the leaves were carried out. Physiochemical parameter and preliminary phytochemical screening for secondary metabolite were also performed. Extracts were taken from nonpolar to polar solvants like hexane, diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, alcohol and water. Their extractive values are calculated. GCMS analysis of hexane, diethyl ether, ethyl acetate and ethanol extract of the leaves of Stenosiphonium russellianum were studied. Preliminary phytochemical evaluation showed the presence of alkaloids, phytosterols and glycosides. GCMS analysis revealed the presence compounds like lupeol, gamma sitosterol and stigmasterols. In conclusion, the information obtained from these studies can be used as markers in the identification and standardization of this plant as an herbal remedy and also towards further pharmacological activity estimation.

Background: Adhatoda vasica (Nees.) of the family Acanthaceae has been used in the Southeast tropical zone as it is efficacious against headache, colds, cough, whooping cough, fever, asthma, dyspnea, phthisis, jaundice, chronic bronchitis, and diarrhea. It exhibits commendable pharmacological activities. Objective: The aim of the review is to provide a systematic overview of pharmacological activities with toxicity and clinical assessment, phytochemistry of A. vasica along with its characterization, geographical observation, phenology, traditional uses as well as an organized representation of the findings. Methods: The overall information of A. vasica was collected from various resources, including books, review papers, research papers, and reports which were obtained from an online search of globallyaccepted scientific databases. ChemDraw software was used to draw the compound’s structure. Results: Phytochemical review on A. vasica has led to the collection of 233 compounds of different types such as alkaloids, flavonoids, essential oils, terpenoids, fatty acids, phenols, etc. It is a promising source of potential phytopharmaceutical agent that exhibits diverse pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, hepatoprotective, anti-ulcer, abortifacient, antiviral, antiinflammatory, thrombolytic, hypoglycemic, anti-tubercular, antioxidant, and antitussive activities. Conclusions: The sufficient number of studies on ethno-pharmacology, traditional uses and pharmacological activities of A. vasica are conducted. Furthermore, it is necessary to study the activity of chemical constituents for new drug design and discovery from natural products.

Aim: The present work was aimed at evolving with Pharmacognostical, Preliminary Phytochemical investigation and Antioxidant activity of plant Tubiflora acaulis Kuntze (Synonym Elytraria acaulis) belong to family Acanthaceae. Study Design: The permission was taken from Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board, Nagpur for plant collection, collected and authenticated and evaluated Pharmacognostical character including morphological and microscopical as well as Physical Evaluation, phytochemical process and antioxidant activity. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at PSGVPMs College of Pharmacy, Shahada, Dist- Nandurbar (MS) Affiliated to KBCNMU, Jalgaon University, Jalgaon (MS), during 2019-21. Methodology: The plant material firstly taken permission from Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board, Nagpur for plant collection, collected and authenticated and evaluated Pharmacognostical character including morphological and microscopical as well as Physical Evaluation, extraction by successive solvent method, phytochemical process and antioxidant activity of Tubiflora acaulis Kuntze (Acanthaceae). Results: The macroscopical and microscopical studies revealed useful diagnostic features. Qualitative phytochemical analyses revels that Tubiflora acaulis Kuntze leaf separately for different extract like pet. Ether, chloroform and methanol and contained the secondary metabolites. The quantitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of secondary metabolite. The extract of Tubiflora acaulis showed the antioxidant activity by DPPH, Nitric oxide and reducing power assay. Conclusion: The findings of the current research indicated that the ethanol leaf extract of Tubiflora acaulis Kuntze (Acanthaceae) had presence of secondary metabolites and potent antioxidant properties against standard drug.

Background Adhatoda vasica L. is a medicinal plant, known as Malabar nut in English, belonging to the family Acanthaceae. It has been used traditionally to treat respiratory disorders like severe coughs, colds, chronic bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis, and other illnesses. The multifunctional range of bioactives found in it has piqued the interest of pharmaceutical companies, who are looking for more evidence-based ways to develop new formulations. Objective To analyse the A. vasica leaves by GC-MS technique and evaluation of its antioxidant activity. Method Methanolic extract of A. vasica L. (MEAV) leaves was analyzed by GC-MS for identification and characterization of its bioactives and traditional therapeutic claims. A widely anticipated 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method was used to determine the antioxidant activity of MEAV. Results The major compounds revealed in MEAV leaves are: 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine (3.06%); 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one (5.35%); 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (16.82%); 2-butylphenol (6.85%); 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methyl-dihydro-furan-2-on (2.5%); 2(OR 3)–(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methoxyphenol (3.52%); megastigmatrienone 3 (1.02%); tetradecanoic acid (1.52%); vomifoliol (0.58%); oxalic acid, cyclobutylhexyl ester (6.03%); hexadecanoic acid (6.06%); 4-ethyl-2-oxo-2,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-cyclopenta[B]pyridine-3-carbonitrile (10.08%); phytol (2.01%); and vitamin E (3.18%). A significant reduction in free radicals against DPPH was observed, which revealed the antioxidant potential of MEAV. Conclusion MEAV consists of both polar and nonpolar components. GC-MS analysis was used to identify these compounds. The current work validates that the antioxidant activity of MEAV is attributed to the presence of compounds such as vitamin E and terpenes. Highlights This work validates the antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of A. vasica attributed to the presence of compounds like vitamin E and terpenes.

One new benzophenone derivative, named penibenzophenone C (1), and a new benzophenone natural product, neamed penibenzophenone D (2), together with two known compounds (3, 4) were isolated from the EtOAc extract of the endophytic fungus Penicillium sp. isolated from the mangrove Acanthus ilicifolius L. collected in the South China Sea. The structures of 1–4 were elucidated by extensive NMR spectral interpretation and MS data. The new compounds 1 and 2 showed moderate antibacterial activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus with the MIC values of 3.12 and 6.25 μg ml−1, respectively.

Objective: Justicia flava is a plant commonly used in traditional medicine for the treatment of frictions, convulsions, body aches, pains, and fever. The aim of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory properties of an aqueous extract of J. flava (AEJf) in rats. Methods: Thus, 36 rats were divided into six groups of six rats each for each test. Acute anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by induction of plantar edema following injections of egg albumin, carrageenan, or histamine. AEJf and aspirin (100 mg/kg bw) were orally administered to rats with doses ranged from 62.5 to 500 mg/kg bw before (preventive study) and after (curative study) the induction of edema. The rat’s paw edema was measured using a digital caliper thereafter. For a sub-chronic anti-inflammatory activity, sterilized cotton pellets (20±0.5 mg) were implanted in the anterior dorsal region for granuloma formation. Animals received the different doses of AEJf (62.5–500 mg/kg bw) for 7 days and on the 8th day, cotton pellets were removed and weighed, dried, and weighed again. Results: The results of the oral administration of AEJf at doses of 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg bw to rats showed similar acute anti-inflammatory properties such as aspirin (100 mg/kg bw) on carrageenan (1%), fresh egg albumin, and histamine injection-induced rats’ paw edema. AEJf caused 77.63% (preventive study) and 28.1% (curative study) inhibitions of carrageenan (1%) solution-induced paw edema and 61% (preventive study) and 29.62% (curative study) inhibitions of fresh egg albumin-induced paw edema. AEJf also inhibited histamine-induced edema (1 mg/mL) by 83.67% compared to the control group. AEJf significantly reduced the weight of granuloma tissue elicited by the insertion of sterile cotton pellets from 34.53 to 46.98% for wet cottons and from 45.73 to 59.45% for dry cottons. Conclusion: AEJf possessed anti-inflammatory activity on acute and sub-chronic inflammations in rats.

Light and scanning electron microscopic studies of pollen and seeds were carried out for nine species of Andrographis (Acanthaceae) from India. Pollen in all species is isopolar, radially symmetric...

Acanthus ilicifolius Linn. (Acanthaceae) is a popular mangrove ethnomedicinal plant that cures several ailments, including asthma, diabetes, cancer, and many others. Our experiment was aimed at evaluating the anti-atherogenic effect of A. ilicifolius (leaf and stem) on a high-fat diet-induced atherogenic rat model. Atherosclerosis was developed in 12 weeks. Treatment with the standard drug (3 mg/kg b.w./day, p.o. of Simvastatin), separate doses of methanolic and ethanolic extracts of A. ilicifolius leaf (250 and 500 mg/kg b.w./day, p.o.), and stem (200 and 400 mg/kg b.w./day, p.o.) was subsequently conducted for additional 15 days. The anti-atherogenic effect was evaluated by estimating the change in body weight, systolic blood pressure, and lipid profile. Histopathology of aorta, liver, and kidney of atherogenic models was done for further evaluation. The antioxidant effect of different extracts was performed via DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay using ascorbic acid as standard. The anticoagulant effect was determined after 15 days of treatment with the same doses of the plant extracts and the standard Warfarin (2 mg/kg b.w./day, p.o.). When compared with atherogenic control, treatment with A. ilicifolius significantly reduced ( p p

Recently, the demand for discovery of safe anticancer drugs from nature has been extensively increased to avoid cancer chemotherapy side effects. Blepharis edulis (Forssk.) pers (Acanthaceae) is a perennial herb growing in Egypt with many traditional and pharmacological activities. The in vitro assay as well as identification of phytoconstituents in plant samples by LC/MS/MS spectrometry has reserve time and efforts for rapid screening and identification of biologically active compounds in plants. Herein, we investigated the cytotoxic activity of different fractions of Blepharis edulis methanolic extract using Sulforhodamine B stain (SRB) against three cancer cell lines; Hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2), human colon carcinoma (HCT-116), and human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell lines. The results revealed that the n-butanol fraction showed the most potent cytotoxic activity against the three tested cancer cell lines with CC50 values 9.12 ± 0.92, 6.79 ± 0.65 and 4.19 ± 0.51 against MCF-7, HCT-116 and HepG2 cell lines, respectively. Moreover, the high resolution the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q-TOF-MS-MS) metabolomic analysis for the n-butanol fraction as the most active sample has been achieved for the first time. A total of 30 compound of different classes including flavonoids, aromatic aldehydes, aromatic acids and alkaloids, have been identified from Blepharis edulis.

The aim of this Study was to document medicinal plants used in the management of HIV and AIDS-related conditions in Mbulu District. An ethnomedical survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire. The main HIV and AIDS-related conditions considered during this study were; cough, frequent fevers, diarrhea, weight loss, oral thrush, genital warts, candidiasis, abscesses, skin rashes, shingles and venereal diseases. Literature survey was also carried out to compile supplementary data on ethnomedical used and pharmacological activities of the respective plants. Thirty seven plant species from 23 families were reported. The plant families with the highest number of documented species were Acanthaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Compositae and Verbanaceae with three species each. Literature information on the 37 reported plant species showed that, 23 plants could be linked to supporting data on ethnomedical uses, 23 were related to biological activity and 12 had been reported to display varying activities against HIV-1. Sixteen identified medicinal plants recorded new ethnomedical uses related to HIV and AIDS-related conditions, while 8 and 16% of the plant species did not have any previously reported ethnomedical uses or pharmacological activities, respectively. Key words: Medicinal plants, indigenous knowledge, HIV and AIDS-related conditions.

Background Malaria is among the most devastating and widespread tropical parasitic diseases which is more prevalent in developing countries. Acanthus polystachyus (Acanthaceae) leaves are traditionally used for the treatment of malaria in Ethiopia. This study aimed to investigate the in vivo antimalarial and in vitro antioxidant activity of the leaves extract of Acanthus polystachyus. Materials and Methods The leaves part of A. polystachyus were extracted using 80% methanol. The antioxidant effect of Acanthus polystachyus extract was evaluated by using (DPPH) diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay model. To evaluate the antimalarial effect of the A. polystachyus extract, Plasmodium berghei ANKA strain (chloroquine sensitive) was used to infect the mice in three different experimental protocol: suppressive, curative, and prophylactic test models. Results The leaves extract of Acanthus polystachyus significantly (P

Andrographis paniculata (family: Acanthaceae) is a medicinal herb-used in Indian system of medicine (Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani), traditional and folk systems to treat various illnesses. This study examined the phytochemical constituents of ethanol extract from A. paniculata and its protective effect against genotoxicity caused by cyclophosphamide (CPA). Phytochemical screening and estimation of total phenolic content were analyzed using standard methods. The bioactive components from the ethanol extract of A. paniculata (EAP) were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. To investigate the protective effect of EAP against CPA-induced genotoxicity, human peripheral lymphocyte cultures were used. To test the antigenotoxic and antimutagenic effects of EAP, lymphocytes were treated with different concentrations of extract (50∼250 mg/mL) alone and co-treated along with CPA+EAP for 48 h. The cells were analyzed for structural chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) in control, CPA treated, and CPA+ EAP co-treated lymphocytes. Results of the study revealed that the lymphocyte cultures which had 48 h continuous exposure to EAP (50∼250 mg/mL) did not show any significant changes in CAs and SCE frequencies. These results substanti-ate the antimutagenic nature of the extract. Furthermore, the lymphocytes co-treated with CPA along with extract showed a significant reduction in CAs (reduced from 26.50±2.50% to 11.00±1.00%) and SCEs (reduced from 9.92±0.63 per cell to 4.56±0.18 per cell). These results suggest that A. paniculata is protective against CPA induced genotoxicity and put forward its possible use as a supplement with chemotherapeutic drugs.

Adusa is a well-known herbal remedy used in Unani system of medicine for its beneficial effects, especially in bronchitis. The herb containing fresh, dried, ripe leaves of Adhatoda vasica Nees, Family Acanthaceae, is a sub-herbaceous bush which grows and found throughout the year in plains and sub-Himalayan tracts in India, ascending up to 1200 m., flowering occurs during February-March and also at the end of rainy season. Adusa leaves, bark, root bark, fruit and flowers help to remove intestinal parasites. Adusa herb is used in the treatment of cold, cough, bronchitis and asthma. In acute bronchitis especially when the sputum is thick and sticky, it gives unfailing relief. Its action on liquefying the sputum makes it easier for body to expel sputum. It’s dried leaves may be smoked to get relief from asthma. Local application of poultice of adusa leaves is also used with beneficial results over rheumatic joints, inflammatory swellings and fresh wounds. Scabies and other skin diseases may also be treated with a warm decoction of its leaves. In this paper general medicinal uses and pharmacological activities of various parts of this plant have been discussed and reviewed.

Acacia macrostachya (Mimosaceae) and Lepidagathis anobrya (Acanthaceae) are two medicinal plants used in Burkina Faso folk medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The purpose of this study was to assess the phenolic content, the antioxidant, lipoxygenase and lipid peroxidaseinhibitory effects of Acacia macrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya.The experimental results revealed that Acacia mascrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya have respective total phenolic contents varies from 240.13 ± 0.44 and 30.88 ± 0.30 mg GAE / 100 mg extract; and total flavonoids contents of 2.30 ± 0.002 and 4.24 ± 0.28 QE / 100 mg of extract. The two plants demonstrated anti-free radicals (ABTS) capacities of 0.06 and 0.14 TEAC while the FRAP reducing power of 2.24 ± 0.08 and 4.43 ± 0.12 mmol AAE per 100 mg respectively. Acacia macrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya showed significant inhibitory effect on lipid oxidation with the inhibition percentage values of 55.45 ± 1.48 and 66.36 ± 0.65 respectively. In the 15-lipoxygenase inhibition, Acacia macrostachya demonstrated very important inhibitory effect with the IC50 value of 1.32 ± 0.16 while the effect of Lepidagathis anobrya is very moderate.The results of this work demonstrated the interest of Acacia macrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya in the management of inflammatory diseases.

The present review mainly focuses on the morphological and pharmacological activities of the Adhatoda vasica belonging to the family Acanthaceae, which is commonly referred to as Adosa or Adsogi. It also focuses on the evidence based therapeutic uses of A.vasica in various experimental models. This plant is found in all the ecosystem in India and other parts of the world as well. Because of its greater availability and multitude of pharmacological activities, the plant is being used in the treatment of numerous diseases. Extracts of various parts of the plants such as bark, root, leaf, flower, fruit and many a times, the whole plants are used in the management of pain, inflammation, asthma, cold, cough, diabetes, bronchitis, diarrhea, dysentery and other upper respiratory diseases and it is also used to heal wounds; is utilised as an insecticide, and also used as abortifacient. In asthma and acute stages of bronchitis, the extract of vasica offers an unflagging result by decreasing the thickness of the sputum. Because of the above mentioned reasons the plant has greater importance in the various systems of medicines such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. According to the texts, the plant has greater power on asthma, abortifacient and uterotonic. Numerous trials have been conducted to prove the effects of A.vasica on asthma which led to its inclusion in WHO manual. According to the present day studies the alkaloids such as vasicinone, vasicine, and oxyvasicine which are present in A.vasica are responsible for most of the activities. But extensive studies need to be conducted to understand the constituent responsible for abortifacient and uterotonic activity.

Scorpion sting envenoming in Saudi Arabia posed major public health problems. Conventional treatment with antivenom with its limitations and hazards called for the use of support remediation like prazosin therapy and phytotherapy as alternative solutions in systematic medicine and a trend of use in medicinal plants. The present study is aiming to procure the medicinal plants that exhibit antidotes of scorpion stings which, were scientifically ignored in Saudi Arabia. Current study data of 11 rare and endangered medicinal plants were collected identified up to the family level, in addition to the parts used. The Family Leguminosae was represented by 4 species. The families Acanthaceae, Amaranthaceae, Annonaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Plumbaginaceae, and Zygophyllaceae, were represented with a single species each. All of them have got medicinal ability of antidote potential against scorpion venoms. These commonly used herbs that belonged to 8 families were similar in the use of all parts in treatment. This review study may assist the researchers recruiting new natural herbs and their active products as therapeutic agents against scorpion envenoming. However, these medicinal plants are still requiring pharmacological and phytochemical investigations in order to be claimed as effective antidotes in scorpion envenoming syndrome.

—We describe and illustrate Stenandrium diamantinense and Stenandrium eustachyum, two new species from campos rupestres in a region of high endemism in southeastern Brazil. Stenandrium diamantinense is differentiated from other congeners by its unique indurate, small leaves with revolute margins. Stenandrium eustachyum is most similar to Stenandrium villosum, the only congener with which it shares the combination of oval bracts and caulescent habit; it can be distinguished from the latter species by its ovate to widely ovate leaves (vs. lanceolate in S. villosum). Stenandrium eustachyum differs from other species of Stenandrium from the Serra do Espinhaço by its oval (vs. linear in all other regional species) bracts. Photographs of living plants in the field are supplemented by scanning electron micrographs of pollen, seeds, and trichomes. A distribution map and a key to the Stenandrium species of the southern Serra do Espinhaço are provided. Stenandrium diamantinense is informally and provisionally assessed as Endangered and S. eustachyum as Critically Endangered. The distribution of Stenandrium in the Serra do Espinhaço supports proposed centers of endemism and key biodiversity areas.

Ruellia angustiflora (Acanthaceae) is known as flower-of-fire, and its leaves are traditionally employed to promote wound healing. This study was aimed at extracting and characterizing the chemical constituents of the extracts of R. angustiflora obtained by ultrasound-assisted and supercritical fluid extractions, and subsequently investigate their antioxidant potential and cyto-genotoxicity. The extract obtained by ultrasound (UAE-EtOH) was characterized by ultraperformance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS), and the extract obtained via supercritical fluid (SFE-CO2) by gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The antioxidant potential was verified by the antiradical activity against the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), and the cyto-genotoxicity evaluation to test cell viability and DNA damage was performed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cultures. The SFE-CO2 extract presented some fatty acids, triterpenes, tetraterpenes, tocopherols and phytosterols. The UAE-EtOH extract contained phenolic acids and flavonoids, and showed the highest antioxidant capacity. Neither extract was genotoxic or cytotoxic at the tested concentrations.

Three novel 14-membered cyclopeptide alkaloids, justicianenes B-D (1-3), were isolated from the EtOH extract of the whole plant of Justicia procumbens L., and their structures were determined on the basis of detailed NMR spectroscopic data and the absolute stereochemistry of the ring-bonded α-amino acids in the cyclopeptide alkaloids were determined by ECD spectra. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxicity against human cancer cell lines, including brest cancer MCF-7, cervix carcinoma HeLa, lung cancer A549 and H460, and diphyllin (14) showed moderate cytotoxicity against the HeLa, A549 and H460 cells with IC50 of 9.13, 23.12, 42.34 µM, respectively, justicianene D showed weak cytotoxicity against the MCF-7 cell with inhibition rate of 50% at the concentration of 90 µM.

This study aimed to assess and determine the estrogenic activity of the leaf extract of Justicia flava (JF) in mice, which may interfere with its therapeutic use in female reproduction. The uterotr...

Limitations in existing anticoagulants have prompted a search for the natural origin of anticoagulants. Since there is an increasing need to source for pharmacological and medicinal materials from a plant source, thus an exploratory effort towards identifying and characterizing new anticoagulants from plants is worthwhile. Clinacanthus nutans (C. nutans) commonly known as Sabah snake grass belongs to Acanthaceae family was chosen since it has therapeutic and medicinal benefits. This plant possessed anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic activities. This study was carried out to identify the anticoagulant activities of C. nutans leaves in aqueous and methanol extracts at different concentrations based on prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). The dried leaves of C. nutans were ground into a fine powder and extracted using aqueous and methanol. Anticoagulant assays of PT and aPTT were done on three different concentrations of C. nutans aqueous and methanol extracts (10 mg/mL, 20 mg/mL, and 30 mg/mL) and control group respectively. PT and aPTT of plasma samples were prolonged in both types of extracts (p

Context Fruit of Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh. (Acanthaceae) is used as a Chinese herb. Studies have found that it contains marinoid J, a novel phenylethanoid glycoside (PG) compound, but its neuroprotective functions are largely unknown. Objective This study evaluated the effects of marinoid J on vascular dementia (VD) and determined its potential mechanisms of action. Materials and methods The VD model was established by the ligation of the bilateral common carotid artery in Sprague–Dawley rats, who received daily intragastrically administration of saline, marinoid J (125 or 500 mg/kg body weight/d), or oxiracetam (250 mg/kg body weight/d) for 14 days (20 rats in each group). The Morris water maze (MWM) was used to evaluate cognitive performance. The hippocampus was subjected to histological and proteomic analyses. Results Marinoid J shortened the escape latency of VD rats (31.07 ± 3.74 s, p

Haplanthodes (Acanthaceae) is an Indian endemic genus with four species. It is closely related to Andrographis which is also mainly distributed in India. Haplanthodes differs from Andrographis by the presence of cladodes in the inflorescences, sub actinomorphic flowers, stamens included within the corolla tube, pouched stamens and oblate pollen grains. To understand the phylogenetic relationship of Haplanthodes with Andrographis and Haplanthus, another related genus, we used four plastid markers, matK, rbcL, psbA-trnH and trnGR to construct a molecular phylogeny. Our results established the monophyly of this genus and revealed a sister relationship to Andrographis and Haplanthus. Further, to understand the historical biogeography of the genus, we inferred the divergence time and performed ancestral area reconstruction. Our analyses suggest that Haplanthodes has evolved during Late Miocene 5.85 Ma [95%HPD: 2.18-10.34 Ma] in peninsular India where it might have shared a common ancestor with Andrographis. To understand character evolution, the ancestral states of important morphological characters were inferred based on the equal rate model and discussed. The generic status of Haplanthus is not resolved due to incomplete sampling.

Thunbergia coccinea Wall. ex D. Don being a rare, ornamental and medicinal plant of India, is needed to propagate for conserving the germplasm and analyzing its phytochemical compounds in the future. A reliable protocol for direct in vitro propagation using nodal shoot meristem of T. coccinea as explant was standardized. The highest number of shoots per explant (22.17 ± 0.54) with maximum shoot length (2.36 ± 0.28) in cm was obtained in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 9.70 µM of 6-furfurylaminopurine (Kinetin) and 0.053 µM of α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) combination, among all the different plant growth regulators (PGR’s) and concentrations tested. The aforesaid PGR’s combination was optimum for axillary shoot bud induction and multiplication in T. coccinea. The best rooting was observed on the half-strength MS medium fortified with 2.68 µM NAA with the highest number of roots per shoot (3.75 ± 0.12) and maximum length (5.22 ± 0.32) in cm. All the in vitro raised plantlets were acclimatized in sterile sand and soil mixture (1:1) with a survival rate of 70% on earthen pots under greenhouse conditions. PCR-based RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) and ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat) molecular markers were employed to determine the genetic homogeneity amongst the plantlets. Twelve (12) RAPD and nine (9) ISSR primers developed a total of 104 and 91 scorable bands, respectively. The band profiles of micropropagated plantlets were monomorphic to the mother, donor in vivo plant, and similarity values varied from 0.9542–1.000. The dendrogram generated through UPGMA (unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean) showed 99% similarities amongst all tested plants confirming the genetic uniformity of in vitro raised plants.

Two new polycyclic pyrroloquinazoline alkaloids with unprecedented skeleton, anisulcusines A (1) and B (2), along with four known compounds (3-6), were identified from the aerial parts of Anisotes trisulcus (Forssk.) Nees. To our knowledge, anisulcusines A and B are the first polycyclic pyrroloquinazoline alkaloids that possess a unique N-methyl-1,2-dihydro-1'H-spiro[benzo[d][1,3]oxazine moiety. The chemical structures of the new compounds were elucidated through extensive spectroscopic analyses and high-resolution mass spectroscopy. Anisulcusine B (2) exerted moderate cytotoxic effect on cultured human hepatoma (HuH7) cells, whereas compounds 1 and 3-5 exhibited mild cell proliferative or growth stimulatory activity. HIGHLIGHTS Two new polycyclic pyrroloquinazoline alkaloids from Anisotes trisulcus. Structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D- and 2D-NMR and HR-ESI-MS spectra. Compound (2) exerted moderate cytotoxic effect against human hepatoma (HuH7) cells. Compounds (1, 3-5) exhibited mild cell proliferative or growth stimulatory activity.

Phytochemical investigation of chloroform fraction (DBC) and ethyl acetate fraction (DBE) of D. bupleuroides (Acanthaceae) resulted in the isolation of β-sitosterol (1) from DBC and vanillic acid (2) from DBE, which were first to be isolated from D. bupleuroides. β-Sitosterol (1) exhibited substantial antioxidant activity (IC50 = 198.87 µg/mL), whereas vanillic acid (2) showed significant antioxidant power (IC50 = 92.68 µg/mL) employing 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH*) radical scavenging capacity assay. Both compounds showed pronounced antimicrobial activity using the agar disc diffusion method, particularly against fungi showing MIC values of 0.182 and 0.02 concerning Candida albicans, respectively, and 0.001 mg/mL regarding Penicillium notatum. They revealed considerable antibacterial activity with MIC values ranging between 0.467 and 0.809 mg/mL. Vanillic acid (2) exhibited substantial anticancer potential displaying 48.67% cell viability at a concentration of 100 μg/mL using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyl-2H-Tetrazolium Bromide) assay concerning HepG2 cell lines. These results were further consolidated by in silico studies on different enzymes, where vanillic acid displayed a high fitting score in the active pockets of DNA-gyrase, dihydrofolate reductase, aminoglycoside nucleotidyltransferase, and β-lactamase. It also inhibited human cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK-2) and DNA topoisomerase II, as revealed by the in silico studies. ADME/TOPKAT (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) prediction showed that vanillic acid exhibited reasonable pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity properties and, thus, could perfectly together with D. bupleuroides crude extract be incorporated in pharmaceutical preparations to counteract cancer and microbial invasion, as well as oxidative stress. Thus, it is concluded that D. bupleroides could be a potential source of therapeutically active compounds, which would be helpful for the discovery of clinically effective and safe drugs.

Clinacanthus nutans Lindau (Family: Acanthaceae) is a medicinal herb widely distributed in the tropic and subtropic areas of Asia. C. nutans is traditionally consumed as vegetable or herbal tea, as well as a folk medicine for anticancer and antifungal activities. However, to date, chemical constituent responsible for observed health beneficial effects of this medicinal plant is not clear. In the current study, 32 compounds (1−32), including three new megastigmanes (1–3) were isolated from the aerial parts of C. nutans. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of comprehensive NMR, MS, and CD spectroscopic data analysis, as well as chemical hydrolysis. Among the isolates, cycloartane triterpenoids (9, 10, and 12) displayed moderate anti-proliferative effects against HepG2 cell growth with IC50 values ranging from 9.12 to 19.89 μM. Data obtained from flow cytometry analysis and western blotting assays revealed that compounds 9 and 12 induced apoptosis of HepG2 cells by modulating the expression of proteins associated to mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway. Furthermore, megastigmanes 1, 2, 7, and 8 enhanced the anti-Candida albicans activity of amphotericin B (AmB), supporting the synergistic effects between megastigmanes and AmB. This is the first report of anticancer and antifungal potential of cycloartane triterpenoids and megastigmanes in C. nutans, which shed useful insights on the relationship between C. nutans's chemical constituent and its beneficial effects to health. Findings from this study support further development of this medicinal plant for potential pharmaceutical applications.

The endemic Indian genus Haplanthodes (Acanthaceae) is revised. Four species, viz. H. neilgherryensis, H. plumosa, H. tentaculata and H. verticillata and a new variety, H. neilgherryensis var. toranganensis are recognized. Lectotype is designated for Haplanthodes, Haplanthus plumosus and H. verticillaris. The nomenclature of the Linnaean name Ruellia tentaculata is also discussed. Micromorphology of seed using light microscope (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) is observed for the first time, and two types, reticulate and micro papillate, have been recognized based on surface sculpturing pattern. The genus differs from the related genera Andrographis and Haplanthus by distinctly two grooved seeds with hygroscopic hairs. Pollen grains of the genus are oblate or prolate spheroidal, distinctly triangular, trizonocolporate with reticulate exine ornamentation.

Aims: We aimed in this study to investigate the mechanisms of the vasorelaxation effect caused by the anthocyanins-enriched extract of Odontonema strictum flowers. Study Design: Anthocyanins-enriched extract of Odontonema strictum flowers and vasorelaxantes activities of mice aortic rings. Place and Duration of Study: The flowers of Odontonema strictum (Nees) Kuntze (Acanthaceae) were collected in January 2015 at the “Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS)” experimental station in Ouagadougou. The experiments were conducted in October - November 2018 at the department of Medicine and Traditional Pharmacopeia-Pharmacy (MEPHATRA-PH)/IRSS. Methodology: The extract was enriched in anthocyanins using Amberlite XAD-7 non-ionic resin column. The vasorelaxant activity of anthocyanins-enriched extract of O. strictum flowers (OSF) was tested using isolated organ-chamber technique with mice aorta rings. Results: OSF showed concentration-dependent relaxant effects on mice endothelium intact or denuded aortic rings pre-contracted with U46619 (10-7 M) and KCl (80 mM). OSF induced relaxation in the mice aortic rings by stimulating smooth muscle cells. The vasorelaxant effect of OSF (10-1000 µg/mL) was similar in endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortic rings. The maximum relaxant effect was 93.78 ± 4.69% and 92.30 ± 3.19% for endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortic rings, respectively. Moreover, after incubation of the aorta rings with OSF (400 µg/mL) or vehicle (0.02% of DMSO) in PSS, OSF blocked the contraction through mechanism involving inhibition of CaCl2 and U46619 effect. Conclusions: The present study provides a pharmacological evidence for the antihypertensive medicinal use of Odontonema strictum by highlighting its vasorelaxant activity.

Background Clinacanthus nutans extracts have been consumed by the cancer patients with the hope that the extracts can kill cancers more effectively than conventional chemotherapies. Our previous study reported its anti-inflammatory effects were caused by inhibiting Toll-like Receptor-4 (TLR-4) activation. However, we are unsure of its anticancer effect, and its interaction with existing chemotherapy. Methods We investigated the anti-proliferative efficacy of polar leaf extracts (LP), non-polar leaf extracts (LN), polar stem extract (SP) and non-polar stem extracts (SN) in human breast, colorectal, lung, endometrial, nasopharyngeal, and pancreatic cancer cells using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, MTT assay. The most potent extracts was tested along with gemcitabine using our established drug combination analysis. The effect of the combinatory treatment in apoptosis were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Annexin V assay, antibody array and immunoblotting. Statistical significance was analysed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc Dunnett’s test. A p-value of less than 0.05 (p Results All extracts tested were not able to induce potent anti-proliferative effects. However, it was found that pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, PDAC (AsPC1, BxPC3 and SW1990) were the cell lines most sensitive cell lines to SN extracts. This is the first report of C. nutans SN extracts acting in synergy with gemcitabine, the first line chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer, as compared to conventional monotherapy. In the presence of SN extracts, we can reduce the dose of gemcitabine 2.38–5.28 folds but still maintain the effects of gemcitabine in PDAC. SN extracts potentiated the killing of gemcitabine in PDAC by apoptosis. Bax was upregulated while bcl-2, cIAP-2, and XIAP levels were downregulated in SW1990 and BxPC3 cells treated with gemcitabine and SN extracts. The synergism was independent of TLR-4 expression in pancreatic cancer cells. Conclusion These results provide strong evidence of C. nutans extracts being inefficacious as monotherapy for cancer. Hence, it should not be used as a total substitution for any chemotherapy agents. However, SN extracts may synergise with gemcitabine in the anti-tumor mechanism.

Strobilanthes tricostata, a new species with semelparous life history strategy, is described from the Megamalai hills, Tamil Nadu. Pollen morphology, phenology, distribution, conservation status and notes on allied taxa are provided along with illustrations.

Morphoanatomical and chemical changes can occur because of biotic and abiotic factors, naturally present in the environment. These changes can result in modifications in the concentrations of secondary metabolites of medicinal species, an essential aspect to produce herbal medicines. Justicia species are used for analgesic and anti-inflammatory purposes and widely used in social programs in the Northeast of Brazil. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate how different growth conditions (greenhouse and field) affect morphoanatomical features, chemical composition and AA of the aerial organs of three economically important species of Justicia (J. brandegeeana, J. gendarussa, and J. pectoralis). The results of morphological evaluations indicate that plants grown in the field developed better than those grown in the greenhouse, which underwent etiolation. Plants grown in the greenhouse had a greater leaf area and reduced mesophyll thickness. In contrast, plants that were grown in the field had greater cuticle and mesophyll thickness, as well as increased collenchyma cell wall thickness of stems and petioles. Plants grown in the field also had a higher stomatal density than plants grown in the greenhouse. Mass spectrometric data revealed a higher overall concentration of phenols and flavonoids, as well as higher AA, in the extracts of the plants grown in the field. Thus, the different growth conditions resulted in anatomical alterations, and changes in the concentrations of some chemical components. The results help to improve the cultivation of these species, as these changes imply in the quality of the final product and the treatment.

Objective: The genus Ruellia has been widely used in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine as an antioxidant. This study seeks to examine the antioxidant activity of the species Ruellia brittoniana. Methods: In this study, Ruellia brittoniana flowers were acquired from Depok, West Java, Indonesia. The flowers were cleaned and ground to form a powder, then dissolved in hexane, ethanol and ethyl acetate solvents. These three extracts were then tested for phytochemicals and thin layer chromatography (TLC) analysis. Ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts were also analyzed for antioxidants using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Results: Phytochemical results from the three extracts proved that Ruellia brittoniana contains flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides and triterpenes. These results are comparable to the results from TLC analysis, which showed the samples contained 4–5 chemical components. Furthermore, the best antioxidant activity resulted from the ethyl acetate extract of the Ruellia brittoniana flower with an IC50 value of 68.42 ppm. Conclusion: An ethyl acetate extract from the Ruellia brittoniana flower can be used as a natural source of additional antioxidants.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Blume, locally known in Malaysia as “Pecah kaca” or “Jin batu”, has been traditionally used for treatment of various ailments including cancer. We previously demonstrated that a standardized bioactive subfraction of S. crispus, termed as F3, possessed potent anticancer effects in both in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models. Aim of the study To investigate the potential of F3 from S. crispus to prevent metastasis in breast cancer. Materials and methods The antimetastatic effects of F3 were first investigated on murine 4T1 and human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell (BCC) lines using cell proliferation, wound healing and invasion assays. A 4T1-induced mouse mammary carcinoma model was then used to determine the expression of metastasis tumor markers, epithelial (E)-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, mucin (MUC)-1, nonepithelial (N)-cadherin, Twist, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vimentin, using immunohistochemistry, following oral treatment with F3 for 30 days. Results Significant growth arrest was observed with F3 IC50 values of 84.27 µg/ml (24 h) and 74.41 µg/ml (48 h) for MDA-MB-231, and 87.35 µg/ml (24 h) and 78.75 µg/ml (48 h) for 4T1 cells. F3 significantly inhibited migration of both BCC lines at 50 μg/ml for 24 h (p = 0.018 and p = 0.015, respectively). Similarly, significant inhibition of invasion was demonstrated in 4T1 (75 µg/ml, p = 0.016) and MDA-MB-231 (50 µg/ml, p = 0.040) cells compared to the untreated cultures. F3 treatment resulted in reduced tumor growth compared to untreated mice (p Conclusions Our findings suggest that F3 exerts anti-metastatic effects independent of its cytotoxic effects, and these are supported by the increased expression of E-cadherin concurrent with downregulation of MMP-9, MUC1, N-cadherin, Twist, VEGF and vimentin expression in breast cancer.

Several hummingbird-pollinated plant lineages have been demonstrated to show increased rates of diversification compared to related insect-pollinated lineages. It has been argued that this pattern is produced by a higher degree of specialization on part of both hummingbirds and plants. We here test an alternative hypothesis: The often highly territorial hummingbirds may on average carry pollen over shorter distances than other pollinators and drive diversification by reducing gene flow distances. We present experimental data from pollen analogue tracking showing shorter dispersal distances in hummingbird-pollinated than in bee-pollinated species among ten Neotropical species of Justicia (Acanthaceae).

Growing concerns over the toxicity of metallic nanoparticles synthesized using physical and chemical techniques seems to be a major hurdle for researchers. Green synthesis of nanoparticles is one of the promising, ecofriendly and safer methods. Utilizing plant sources as reducing agents will replace the use of toxic chemicals for nanoparticle synthesis. Among the various nanoparticles, copper has been theoretically and practically proved for its antimicrobial properties. However, to reduce the risk of copper toxicity, Ruellia tuberosa (R. tuberosa) aqueous extract is used for the synthesis of CuONPs in the present study. Nonetheless, till date no work has been reported on the use of R. tuberosa aqueous extract for the synthesis of CuONPs. In the present study, aqueous extract of R. tuberosa has been used for the synthesis of CuONPs. The synthesis of CuONPs was confirmed by the absorption peak at 327 nm representing the nanorods with an average size of 83.23 nm. Further, the CuONPs revealed antimicrobial effects against clinical pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Embedding CuONPs on cotton fabrics showed bactericidal activity against the bacterial pathogens. In addition, the photocatalytic property of the CuONPs was divulged by their crystal violet (CV) dye degradation potential. Thus, the green synthesized CuONPs using R. tuberosa could provide a remedy against bacterial pathogens in hospital and industrial environments.

Problem statement: Clinicanthus nutans has been used by Malaysian since long time ago. It is used to treat many diseases including cancer. Many studies carried out on its crude extract but no clear report on the specific secondary metabolites responsible for its nature in treating selected diseases. Objective: This study aims to confirm the practice carried out by many people on the usage of Clinicanthus nutans in treating cancer. Methods: C. nutans leaves were extracted by methanol. Thin layer chromatography was used to identify the suitable solvent for fractions separation. The fractions were then separated at larger volume using gravity column chromatography. Each fraction was tested on its anti-proliferative activity on Hep-G2 liver cancer cells by MTT assay. The phytochemical screening was carried out to identify the bioactive compound based on qualitative analysis. Results: The fraction 2 (F2) of C. nutans showed the lowest IC50 value of 1.73 μg/ml against Hep-G2 cancer cells, and it is identified as triterpenes. Conclusion: The fraction F2 identified as triterpenes isolated from C. nutans has potential as an anti-proliferative agent against liver cancer.

Justicia gendarussa Burm.f. (Acanthaceae) has been known to have anti-HIV activity. This study was conducted to determine the interaction of flavonoids (gendarusin A, B, C, D, and E) on the J. gendarussa leaves against HIV-1 protease receptor. It is expected that this research will provide scientific information on the development of J. gendarussa leaves as an anti-HIV drug. This study used in silico testing methods with FAF-Drugs4 to predict the ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion–toxicity), and Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) to predict the activity of five gendarusin compounds to the receptor of HIV-1 protease (PDB ID: 4HLA). The activity prediction was reflected by hydrogen bond and steric bond visible in MVD program with amino acid residue of the receptor of HIV-1 protease. Gendarusin compounds had good oral bioavailability and were not toxic, and from molecular docking test, it was found that gendarusin of J. gendarussa leaves could inhibit the activity of HIV protease enzyme. Gendarusin of J. gendarussa has potential as an anti-HIV.

Andrographis paniculata Nees is an annual herbaceous plant which belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is commonly known as Kalmegh, is found in the plains of India, China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and South Asia and is native to India and Sri Lanka. Kalmegh is known to be the “king of bitters” though it is of small size and it also has a similar appearance and taste as that of the Neem plant. It is one of the widely used effective medicinal plants in the world. All parts of this plant are used to extract the potential phytochemical, but the composition of phytoconstituents mostly differs from one part to another in a season, place and time of harvest. It is a traditional medicinal plant widely used in the treatment of anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, hematocidal, anti-HIV, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, arthritis, rheumatism, cough, cold, multiple sclerosis, depression, diarrhoea, dysentery, candida, fevers, herpes, leprosy, malaria, jaundice, tuberculosis and several infectious diseases ranging from malaria to dysentery. The plant is widely used in Ayurvedic and homeopathic system of medicine. The medicinal value of this plant is due to the active ingredients via andrographolide and neoandrographolide, which are derivative of diterpinoids. It prevents oxidative damage and inhibits binding of toxic metabolite to DNA.