Read full article By Chukwuma Muanya @ The Guardian Photo Credit: The Guardian
•Nigerian researchers recommend Mojeaga herbal remedy for anaemia, diabetes, cancer, other chronic diseases
Nigerian researchers have demonstrated that a combination of three local herbs, Mojeaga herbal remedy, could be used to boost the immune system, red blood cells and prevent development of degenerative diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
The researchers investigated the phytochemicals contents, antioxidant property and haematinic potential of Mojeaga herbal remedy (Alchornea cordifolia, Sorghum bicolor, Pennisetum glaucum) leave preparation in animal model.
The researchers concluded: “It is significant to consider this research study, which elicited essential preclinical information progressing to anti-anemic herbal remedy development in the country. Therefore, possible isolation and feature of bioactive components should be accounted for with diverse pharmacological properties of Mojeaga herbal remedy in accordance with determine its bioactive guide to assay.”
The study titled, “Phytochemical screening, antioxidant study and hematinic property of Mojeaga herbal remedy using animal model” was published in Beni-Suef University Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences.
The researchers, led by a Professor of Phytomedicine at Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Benin, MacDonald Idu, include: Managing Director of Mojeaga International Ventures Limited, Benin City, Mr. Monday Ojeaga Alugeh; Director of Mojeaga, Mr. Micheal Ojeaga Alugeh; and a researcher at Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Benin Dr. Benjamin Ogunma Gabriel.
Standard protocols were used to analyse the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical, gas chromatography mass spectrum (GC–MS), and in vitro antioxidant studies (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total antioxidant capacity were also used to assess these plants. Ninety Wistar rats of both sexes were selected for this study. They were administered with 40-mg/kg phenylhydrazine hydrochloride to induce anaemia.
Five days afterward, they were treated with oral dose of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 ml/kg Mojeaga herbal remedy for 10 days. Haematological, CD4 and CD8, and histology of the blood and bone marrow were analysed.
The CD4/CD8 ratio is one of the blood tests used to monitor the immune system in immune-compromised persons, especially in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
The result of the phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids and phenol.
