South Asian Research Journal of Natural Products

Epigenetic Toxicology of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals: Mechanisms, Transgenerational Effects, and Human Health Implications

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that threaten human and environmental health by interfering with hormonal signalling. A growing body of research indicates that EDCs have long-lasting biological effects through epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone changes, and non-coding RNA regulation, in addition to traditional receptor-mediated toxicity. These processes, which are especially important during delicate developmental windows like embryogenesis and the early postnatal period, control gene expression without changing the DNA sequence.

The present understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms that support EDC toxicity is summarised in this review, with a focus on how these mechanisms interact with endocrine signalling pathways. Exposure to EDCs has been demonstrated to cause oxidative stress, damage chromatin architecture, and modify the activity of epigenetic enzymes, all of which result in long-lasting alterations in gene expression. According to new findings from epidemiological and experimental research, these changes may persist over generations and contribute to hormone-dependent, metabolic, neurodevelopmental, and reproductive diseases.

The study also emphasises the increasing importance of epigenetic biomarkers in illness prediction and exposure assessment, such as circulating non-coding RNAs and DNA methylation signals. Enhancing risk assessment and public health initiatives requires incorporating epigenetic endpoints into toxicological and regulatory frameworks. All things considered, comprehending the epigenetic underpinnings of EDC action offers vital insights into the genesis of disease and facilitates the creation of more successful environmental health regulations.

Nutritional Composition, Bioactive Properties, and Agri-Food Applications of Walnuts and Pomegranate Fruits

Aleksander Petre, Dritan Topi — Tue, 05 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Walnuts (Juglans regia L.) and pomegranates (Punica granatum L.) are among the most nutritionally and pharmacologically significant fruits in the human diet, yet a comprehensive comparative review of their bioactive profiles and combined therapeutic potential remains lacking. This review systematically examines their nutritional composition, key biochemical constituents — including polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant compounds — and their established roles in functional food development, nutraceutical formulation, and food processing applications. Walnuts are characterized by high energy density and a favorable lipid profile, with documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. Pomegranates, by contrast, are calorie-moderate and exceptionally rich in polyphenolic compounds, conferring anticancer, antihypertensive, and antimicrobial effects. Crucially, their complementary biochemical profiles position them as synergistic candidates for the development of health-promoting food and therapeutic products. Both fruits demonstrate significant potential in the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions. Despite growing industrial interest, standardized dietary and therapeutic dosages remain undefined, and the bioavailability and mechanistic pathways of key bioactives remain to be further elucidated. This review highlights the emerging case for their combined application and identifies priority areas for future clinical and food science research.

Wild Edible Fruit Plants as Functional Food Resources: A Critical Review of Nutritional Composition and Biological Activities

Vaishnavi Pophale, Rupali Shirsat — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Wild edible fruits have been integral to traditional diets and indigenous health-care systems for centuries. These fruits are rich in essential nutrients, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and diverse bioactive compounds that contribute to human health and nutrition. Despite their substantial nutritional and medicinal importance, many wild fruits remain neglected, underutilised, and insufficiently investigated. Increasing interest in natural health-promoting foods has highlighted the need to document and evaluate the therapeutic potential of these valuable plant resources.

Materials and Methods: This review was conducted through an extensive survey of published scientific literature on wild edible fruits. Relevant information was collected from research articles, books, scientific databases, and authenticated online sources. The gathered data were critically analysed and organised under major themes, including nutritional composition, phytochemical constituents, ethnomedicinal uses, and pharmacological activities.

Results and Discussion: The reviewed studies indicate that wild edible fruits are valuable sources of essential minerals, dietary fibre, vitamins, and diverse phytochemicals, such as phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, anthocyanins, terpenoids, and saponins. These bioactive compounds are associated with several biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and anticancer effects. Many wild fruits have also been used traditionally in the management of common ailments and chronic diseases. The findings suggest that these fruits have considerable potential as functional foods, nutraceuticals, and natural therapeutic agents.

Conclusion: Wild edible fruits represent an important yet underexploited natural resource with notable nutritional and medicinal value. Their sustainable utilisation, conservation, and scientific validation may contribute to improved food security, better public health, enhanced rural livelihoods, and the development of plant-based functional foods and pharmaceuticals. Greater research attention and public awareness are essential for promoting the effective use and conservation of these valuable biological resources.

Systematic Review of Multitarget Natural Products and Phytochemicals for Neurodegenerative Disease Therapy and Therapeutic Potentials

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases are severe and incurable health issues that affect millions of people. Phytochemicals are being increasingly studied, for their multitarget effects.

Aim: The objective is to examine research studies on multitarget natural products and phytochemicals for neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. Searches from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted for original research studies published from the year 2020 to 2026. Included studies demonstrated evidence of multitarget action from in vitro or in vivo based studies.

Results: The review showed that there is solid evidence for mulberroside A (a compound derived from mulberry), hesperetin and hesperidin (which are derived from citrus), extracts from Khaya grandifoliola, safflower yellow, alpha-terpinyl acetate (a compound derived from cardamom), and extracts from Atractylodes macrocephala. These compounds act on different mechanisms. They target harmful proteins (Aβ, tau, α-syn), reduce inflammation and oxidative damage. They also activate brain protective factors (PI3K/AKT, CREB/BDNF) and repair cholinergic function. In animal models, these compounds enhanced cognitive function, reduced neurodegenerative cell loss, diminished misfolded proteins, and reduced inflammation.

Conclusion: There is evidence from the early stages of research that multitarget natural products could be a valuable means to combat AD and PD. In order to translate these compounds from plants into clinically viable products, there must be considerable effort directed toward the development of more effective targeting systems, such as the use of nanoparticles, along with the initiation of clinically-based studies.

FTIR spectrum of Starch from Sweet Potato and the Effects of Acid Treatment and Extrusion

K. Anyiam Chioma — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This work aims to study the effect of acid treatment and extrusion on the structure of starch using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Starch from white fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) tubers was extracted and subjected to acid treatment and physical treatment (extrusion). The unmodified starch, acid treated starch (ATS) and physical treated starch (PTS) where analysed with the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). FTIR spectra obtained for the treated starches showed changes as compared to the unmodified starch. The PTS showed reduced transmittance, while the ATS showed alternating increase and decrease transmittance with shift of the peaks at C-H and O-H stretching 2929 cm^-1 and 3393 cm-1, respectively indicating change of structure and hydrogen bonding.

Antibacterial and Phytochemical Evaluation of Plastotoma africana as a Potential Antipneumonitic Agent

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among pneumonia-causing bacteria has intensified the search for alternative therapeutic agents from medicinal plants. This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of Plastotoma africana extracts against selected pneumonitic bacteria and investigated the phytochemical drivers of observed activity using correlation and regression analysis. Aqueous, ethanol, and methanol leaf extracts were tested against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae using agar well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. The methanol extract exhibited the highest antibacterial activity, with zones of inhibition ranging from 18.6 ± 0.6 mm (K. pneumoniae) to 22.1 ± 0.8 mm (S. aureus), compared to ethanol (14.2–17.5 mm) and aqueous extracts (9.6–13.1 mm). A dose-dependent response was observed, with inhibition increasing from 12.7 mm at 25 mg/mL to 22.1 mm at 100 mg/mL. MIC values for the methanol extract were 12.5 mg/mL for Gram-positive bacteria and 25 mg/mL for Gram-negative bacteria. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed higher concentrations of total phenols (52.4 ± 1.9 mg/g), flavonoids (41.2 ± 1.6 mg/g), and alkaloids (34.8 ± 1.3 mg/g) in the methanol extract. Strong positive correlations were observed between total phenols and antibacterial activity (r = 0.86–0.93), while regression models explained 84–89% of the variation, with total phenols emerging as the strongest predictor. These findings provide scientific validation for the ethnomedicinal use of Plastotoma africana and highlight its potential as a source of bioactive compounds for the development of alternative antipneumonitic therapeutics.

Comprehensive Investigation of Phytochemicals, Vitamins, and Antioxidant Properties of Ganoderma sichuanense, Using Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID)

Chukwunonso Anthony Nsude, Hannah Oluchukwu Nsude, Ebere Immaculata Akpata — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Ganoderma sichuanense are edible and cheap mushrooms that are rich in nutrients with the potential to be harnessed in traditional medicine as functional foods for disease prevention and treatment. This study assessed the quantitative phytochemicals, vitamins, and antioxidant properties of Ganoderma sichuanense. The GC-FID phytochemical analysis of the edible mushroom revealed high amounts of kaempferol (38.870 ppm), isorhamnetin (19.477 ppm), luteolin (14.359 ppm), and naringenin (8.812 ppm). Other phytochemicals detected were catechin, quercetin, artemetin, apigenin, retusin, ellagic acid, hesperidin, myricetin, lunamarin, gallocatechin, vanillic acid, daidzein, genistein, baicalin, epicatechin, and naringin. Estimation of the vitamin composition revealed the highest concentration of vitamin C (61.911±0.198 mg/100g), followed by vitamins D (56.98±0.198 mg/100g), E (17.961±0.099 mg/100g), A (14.179±0.112 mg/100g), B12 (6.259±0.077 mg/100g), B6 (0.10±0.099 mg/100g), B1 (0.052±0.012 mg/100g), and B2 (0.024±0.011 mg/100g). Ethanolic extracts of G. sichuanense showed a concentration-dependent rise in the scavenging activity. The DPPH free radical was scavenged maximally at a low concentration of the ethanolic extract (10 mg/ml). Also, the extract was equally effective in scavenging the FRAP radical in a concentration-dependent manner, showing a concentration-dependent rise up to the highest concentration used (80 mg/ml). The results of this study portray that G. sichuanense represents a valuable source of nutrients and bioactive compounds with potential health-promoting properties like hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and hypolipidemic actions.

Preliminary Phytochemical Profiling and Potential of Ricinus communis Leaf Extracts as Natural Sources of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Agents

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The increasing emergence of antimicrobial resistance and oxidative stress related diseases has intensified the search for bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. Ricinus communis L. (Euphorbiaceae) is widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments including infections and inflammatory conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of crude extracts obtained from the leaves of R. communis. The powdered leaves were successively extracted with petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol using maceration. Percentage recovery ranged from 1.44% (ethyl acetate) to 2.89% (methanol). Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins in all extracts, while saponins, anthraquinones, phenols, and cardiac glycosides varied depending on solvent polarity. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay at concentrations of 250–1000 µg/mL. The petroleum ether and methanol extracts demonstrated the highest radical scavenging activities of 82.59% and 73.42%, respectively, at 1000 µg/mL, compared with 93.80% for ascorbic acid. Chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts showed moderate activities. Antimicrobial activity assessed by the disc diffusion method revealed that chloroform and methanol extracts exhibited strong inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while moderate activity was observed against Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) values further confirmed the antibacterial potential of the extracts. The findings suggest that R. communis leaves contain bioactive secondary metabolites responsible for significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, supporting their traditional medicinal applications and highlighting their potential as sources of novel therapeutic agents. Further studies involving purification, structural characterization, and mechanistic investigations are necessary to identify the specific compounds responsible for the observed activity and to evaluate their potential for therapeutic development.

Electricity Generation Using a Zinc–copper Electrochemical Cell with Saltwater Electrolyte

Sat, 02 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The increasing demand for clean, affordable, and sustainable energy has encouraged the exploration of alternative methods of electricity generation for domestic consumption. This study investigates the feasibility of harnessing electricity from sodium chloride (NaCl) and water (H₂O) using electrochemical principles; It is important to note that the energy produced in this system originates primarily from electrode reactions, specifically the oxidation of the more reactive metal (zinc), rather than from the saltwater itself. The saltwater serves as a conductive medium that enables ion transfer and completes the electrical circuit. When salt dissolves in water, it forms free-moving ions that enable electrical conductivity. By immersing two dissimilar metal electrodes, such as zinc and copper, in a saltwater solution, an electrochemical reaction occurs, generating a measurable electric current. Experimental results showed that a single saltwater cell produced an average voltage of approximately 0.76 V, and the voltage increased proportionally when multiple cells were connected in series. The findings indicate that while the energy output is relatively low compared to conventional power sources, saltwater-based systems are simple, inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and suitable for low-power domestic applications such as LED lighting and small electronic devices. Additionally, the study demonstrates that electricity generation from sodium chloride and water is technically feasible and holds potential as a supplementary or backup energy solution for households, particularly in rural and off-grid communities.

Antibacterial Activity, Phytochemical Screening, and GC MS Profiling of Annona senegalensis Leaf and Stem Bark Extracts Against Selected Bacterial Pathogens

Aisha Esther Ibrahim, Danjuma Bulus — Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Antimicrobial resistance among bacterial pathogens continues to pose a serious global public health challenge, limiting the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics and necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic agents, including medicinal plants with documented antibacterial potential such as Annona senegalensis.

Aims: The study aims to investigate the antibacterial activity of Annona senegalensis leaf and stem‑bark extracts against selected bacterial pathogens and to characterise the phytochemical constituents and bioactive compounds responsible for the observed activity.

Study Design: Experimental laboratory study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biological Sciences, Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, between January and June 2025.

Methodology: Fresh leaves and stem‑barks of A. senegalensis were collected from Nasarawa State, Nigeria, and extracted sequentially with hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and hot water. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening was performed using standard methods. Antibacterial activity was evaluated by disc diffusion at five concentrations (100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25 mg/mL) and broth microdilution (MIC/MBC) against standard strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa obtained from the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVIR), Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria. The two most active extracts were analysed by GC‑MS.

Results: Methanol stem‑bark extract (ASSM) gave the highest inhibition zone against S. pneumoniae (21.67 ± 0.58 mm at 100 mg/mL) and the lowest MIC (1.56 mg/mL). Methanol leaf extract (ASLM) also showed activity (MIC 1.56 mg/mL). Water and ethyl acetate extracts were considerably weaker. GC‑MS of the leaf hexane extract (ASLH) revealed phthalic acid ester (21.80%), phytol (16.50%), and sesquiterpenes; the stem‑bark methanol extract (ASSM) contained amide derivatives (1.49%), α‑acetobutyrolactone (1.28%), and an alkaloid‑related compound (1.21%). The MIC of erythromycin (positive control) was 0.78 mg/mL for all isolates.

Conclusion: Methanol extracts of A. senegalensis stem‑bark and leaf display significant antibacterial activity, attributable to high flavonoid content and identified bioactive compounds such as phytol and phthalic acid derivatives. These extracts merit further fractionation and toxicity assessment.

Phytochemical Profiling and Anti-Inflammatory Evaluation of Selected Nigerian Spices: Evidence of Synergistic Bioactivity beyond Phytochemical Abundance

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Spices, rich in bioactive phytochemicals, are widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes and are increasingly studied as potential natural alternatives to conventional anti-inflammatory drugs with fewer side effects.

Aims: The study aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition and anti-inflammatory activities of selected Nigerian spices and determine the relationship between phytochemical abundance and biological activity.

Study Design: This is an Experimental laboratory-based study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Department of Science Laboratory Technology/Directorate of Laboratory Services and Biosecurity, Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria, between March 2025 and June 2025.

Methodology: Fresh samples of Ocimum viride (basil leaves), Allium sativum (garlic), Tetrapleura tetraptera (aidan fruit), Monodora myristica (African nutmeg), and Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon) were collected and extracted using aqueous maceration. Qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted for flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenolics, and terpenes using standard methods. Quantitative analyses of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and saponins were determined spectrophotometrically. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using the protein denaturation inhibition assay with diclofenac as the standard drug. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test at p < 0.05.

Results: Qualitative screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, and terpenes in all spice extracts, while variations were observed for alkaloids, tannins, and phenolics. Monodora myristica recorded the highest flavonoids (156.43 ± 0.95 mg QE/g) and alkaloids (144.72 ± 1.20 mg QE/g) contents, whereas Cinnamomum zeylanicum exhibited the highest phenolic content (195.70 ± 1.30 mg GAE/g). Significant differences were observed among the extracts in anti-inflammatory activity (F (5,6) = 14.49, p = 0.0027). Ocimum viride showed the highest inhibition of protein denaturation (92.86 ± 10.12%), exceeding diclofenac (77.15 ± 8.06%), while Allium sativum and Cinnamomum zeylanicum demonstrated comparatively low inhibition (35.72 ± 10.10%).

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory activity of the selected spices was influenced more by phytochemical synergy and compound type than by total phytochemical concentration. Ocimum viride exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity comparable to diclofenac and may serve as a promising candidate for the development of natural anti-inflammatory nutraceuticals and phytomedicines.

Dietary Supplementation with Chlorella vulgaris Confers Protection against Streptococcus agalactiae in Nile Tilapia: An NMR-Based Metabolomics Approach

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Disease outbreaks, particularly those caused by Streptococcus agalactiae, represent a significant challenge in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) aquaculture. While Chlorella vulgaris is recognized as a promising immunostimulant due to its rich nutrient profile, the molecular mechanisms underlying its protective effects during a live bacterial challenge require further elucidation.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a prophylactic diet incorporated with C. vulgaris in enhancing the survival of Nile tilapia challenged with Streptococcus agalactiae and to characterize the associated metabolic signatures using an NMR-based metabolomics approach.

Methodology: Juvenile Nile tilapia were fed a commercial diet supplemented with 125 mg/kg body weight of C. vulgaris biomass for 21 days. Each group of fish receiving treatment and the control group consist of six (6) fish and replicated three (3) times and one-way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Following the feeding period, the fish were subjected to a bacterial challenge via the immersion method using a 1x10⁸ CFU/mL concentration of S. agalactiae (exceeding the calculated LC₅₀ of 9x10⁷ CFU/mL). Spleen samples were collected on day 29 for ¹H NMR spectroscopy and multivariate data analysis (MVDA), including PCA and OPLS-DA, to identify differentiating biomarkers between control and treated groups. Data were expressed as Mean ± Standard Error of the Mean (SEM). Survival rates were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared via the Log-Rank test. For metabolomics data, normalized spectral intensities were subjected to one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (q < 0.05). MVDA models (PCA and OPLS-DA) were validated using 7-fold cross-validation (Q²) and a 100-fold permutation test. All univariate statistical analyses were performed using Software, SPSS Version 17.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), and multivariate modeling was conducted using Software, SIMCA Umetrics 14.1 (Sartorius Stedim Biotech, Sweden) and an online database, MetaboAnalyst 6.0.

Results: The C. vulgaris treatment significantly improved survival rates, with the treated challenged group (CVC) exhibiting a 90% survival rate compared to only 13.3% in the control challenged group (CFC). Metabolomics analysis identified 21 metabolites in the spleen, with significant up-regulation of key biomarkers in C. vulgaris-fed fish, including palmitic acid (11.55-fold), riboflavin (6.51-fold), arginine (2.62-fold), and alanine (2.12-fold). Conversely, S. agalactiae challenge in control fish led to a severe down-regulation of essential metabolites, most notably linoleic acid (33.28-fold reduction) and stearic acid (18.46-fold reduction). This drastic metabolic depletion was effectively mitigated in fish previously fed with C. vulgaris, where metabolite levels remained stable despite the bacterial challenge.

Conclusion: Prophylactic supplementation with C. vulgaris at 125 mg/kg bw effectively primes the innate immune system of Nile tilapia, providing robust protection against S. agalactiae infection. The sustained levels of vital amino acids and fatty acids in treated fish suggest that C. vulgaris maintains metabolic homeostasis and immune cell viability, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional disease management in aquaculture.

Comparative Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and GC–MS Profiling of Polar Leaf and Stem Bark Extracts of Khaya senegalensis

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Medicinal plants are important sources of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential and are increasingly being investigated as alternatives to synthetic drugs for managing oxidative stress, microbial infections, and other health disorders. Khaya senegalensis (African mahogany), a widely used medicinal plant in tropical Africa, has a long history of ethnomedicinal use in the treatment of malaria, fever, diarrhea, jaundice, rheumatism, and infectious diseases.

Aim: To evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities, and GC–MS bioactive profiles of aqueous and ethanol extracts of the leaves and stem bark of Khaya senegalensis.

Study Design: Experimental laboratory-based study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Science Laboratory Technology/Directorate of Laboratory Services and Biosecurity, Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria, between July and October 2025.

Methodology: Fresh leaves and stem bark of Khaya senegalensis were collected, air-dried, pulverized, and separately extracted using distilled water and ethanol through cold maceration. Percentage extraction yield was determined gravimetrically. Qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out for alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins, glycosides, anthraquinones, and terpenoids using standard analytical procedures. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, while bioactive compounds were identified using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at p < 0.05.

Results: Extraction yield differed significantly among the extracts, with aqueous leaf extract showing the highest yield (9.80 ± 0.12%) and ethanol stem bark extract the lowest (8.00 ± 0.08%). Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, glycosides, saponins, and anthraquinones in all extracts, while terpenoids were predominantly detected in stem bark extracts. Ethanol leaf extract exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (76.00 ± 0.38%), whereas aqueous stem bark extract showed the lowest activity at lower concentrations. GC–MS profiling identified forty-five bioactive compounds mainly comprising fatty acid esters, diterpenes, phytosterols, hydrocarbons, tocopherols, fatty alcohols, and phenolic compounds. Major metabolites identified included phytol, hexadecanoic acid methyl ester, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, squalene, and vitamin E.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that Khaya senegalensis possesses substantial phytochemical richness, significant antioxidant potential, and diverse bioactive metabolites of pharmacological relevance, supporting its traditional medicinal applications and potential use in natural antioxidant and nutraceutical development.

Potential Plant-Based Antibacterial Agent: In vitro Antibacterial Activity of Rauvolfia tetraphylla Methanolic Leaf Extract

S. Shenya, S. D. Sendanayake, L. S. D. Medis, G. N. Dilrukshi — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: The present study evaluated the in vitro antibacterial activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Rauvolfia tetraphylla against selected bacterial strains.

Study Design: Laboratory-based in vitro experimental study.

Methodology: Fresh R. tetraphylla leaves were collected, authenticated, shade-dried, powdered and extracted with methanol by cold maceration. The extract was tested against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 1706. Antibacterial activity was assessed by agar well diffusion at 12.5–200 mg/ml, and minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by broth microdilution. Gentamicin served as the positive control, while solvent and media controls were included. Assays were performed in triplicate, and results were expressed as mean values with standard deviations.

Results: The extract showed the highest activity against S. aureus, with a 26.56 ± 1.39 mm inhibition zone at 200 mg/ml. At the same concentration, inhibition zones were 13.55 ± 0.40 mm for E. coli and 11.89 ± 0.44 mm for P. aeruginosa. At 100 mg/ml, inhibition was observed only against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. No inhibition zone was observed against K. pneumoniae. MIC values were 12.5 mg/ml for S. aureus, 25.0 mg/ml for E. coli and K. pneumoniae, and 50.0 mg/ml for P. aeruginosa.

Conclusion: The methanolic leaf extract of R. tetraphylla exhibited in vitro antibacterial activity, particularly against S. aureus. Further studies are required to confirm the active constituents, reproducibility and safety before any therapeutic application can be considered.

Inhibition Performance of Selected Medicinal Plant Extracts on Mild Steel Q235: FTIR Characterization and Gravimetric Analysis

Janet O. Akpomie, Amos I. Ambo, S. P. I. Ogah, Timothy M. Akpomie — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Corrosion of mild steel in acidic and alkaline environments remains a practical concern because it reduces material durability and increases maintenance requirements. This study evaluated selected medicinal plant extracts as potential corrosion inhibitors for Q235 mild steel using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and gravimetric weight-loss analysis. Aqueous extracts were prepared from Calotropis procera, Euphorbia kamerunica, Camellia sinensis, Azadirachta indica and Cymbopogon citratus, and a 50:50 blend of Calotropis procera and Euphorbia kamerunica was also examined. The plant materials were collected from Shabu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, authenticated, air-dried, pulverised and extracted by cold maceration. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of hydroxyl, carbonyl, ether, amine and related oxygen- and nitrogen-containing functional groups, which may contribute to adsorption on the steel surface. Gravimetric measurements conducted in 0.5 M HCl and 3.0 M NaOH showed that the plant extracts reduced corrosion rates compared with uninhibited media. Inhibition performance varied among the extracts, with Azadirachta indica showing the highest reported inhibition efficiency of about 99%, followed by the Calotropis procera–Euphorbia kamerunica blend at about 98%, Camellia sinensis at about 97% and Cymbopogon citratus at about 80%. The improved inhibition may be attributed to the adsorption of phytochemical constituents and the formation of a protective interfacial film on the mild steel surface. Overall, the results suggest that the investigated plant extracts have potential as environmentally benign corrosion inhibitors, although further quantitative, electrochemical and surface analytical studies are required to clarify the inhibition mechanism and confirm practical applicability.

Phytochemical Constituents and Wound Healing Activity of the Essential Oil from the n-Hexane Leaf Fraction of Microdesmis puberula ex. F. Planch. (Pandaceae)

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: A wound is a form of tissue injury that develops rapidly when the skin is cut, torn or punctured, resulting in an open wound, or when blunt force causes damage beneath the skin, leading to a closed wound such as a contusion. The leaf sap of Microdesmis puberula Hook. f. ex Planch. (Pandaceae) is applied to snakebites or to scarifications in folklore medicine.

Aim: This study evaluated the chemical constituents and wound-healing potential of the essential oil extracted from the leaves of M. puberula.

Methodology: The methods used included vacuum liquid chromatography, GC-MS, an excision wound model, histopathology and histochemistry. The percentage of wound healing and the epithelisation period were measured and analysed for statistical significance using SPSS.

Results: GC-MS analysis of the essential oil identified ten phytoconstituents, including hexanal (53.329 %), tetracosanedoic acid (12.651 %), cyclobutanol (8.096 %), (E,Z)-2,6-nonadienal (4.394 %), trans-β-ocimene (3.711 %), 4-hydroxy-3-methyl butanal (3.656 %), octadecanoic acid (3.653 %), (E))-3(10)-caren-4-ol (3.612 %), hexan-2-yl (E)-2-methylbut-2-enoate (3.449 %) and 10-butyl-10-propyl-eicosane. Topical application of oil ointment formulations of M. puberula leaf (2 and 5 % w/w) on excision wounds in the experimental animals induced significantly greater (p < 0.05) wound contraction and shorter epithelisation periods compared with the negative control groups (blank and untreated). Histopathological and histochemical investigations revealed that the oil formulations improved healing through re-epithelialisation, collagen formation and angiogenesis.

Conclusion: The findings support the traditional use of M. puberula leaf in wound management, as the oil ointment formulations reduced wound-healing time and improved histological features associated with tissue repair, without observed dermal toxicity within the conditions of this study.

Phytochemical Screening: In-vitro, PASS, ADMET and Molecular Docking studies of Antifungal activities of Methanol Extract of Kigelia Africana Fruit Peels

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Kigelia africana fruit peels may contain phytochemicals with antifungal activity. This study qualitatively and quantitatively characterised the methanol extract of the fruit peels and evaluated its activity against Aspergillus terreus, A. nidulans, A. oryzae, and A. niger using in vitro and in silico approaches. Phytochemical screening identified alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, phenols, glycosides, coumarins, steroids, quinones, and cardiac glycosides, while anthocyanins and anthraquinones were absent. Quantitative analysis recorded 4.65% saponins, 10.35% alkaloids, 17.73 QE/mg/g flavonoids, 50.92 GAE/mg/g phenols, and 16.91 GAE/mg/g tannins. The extract produced inhibition zones of 52.5 mm against A. nidulans, 30.5 mm against A. oryzae, and 20.5 mm against both A. niger and A. terreus. PASS analysis identified phytochemicals with predicted activity against A. niger and A. terreus. Molecular docking showed that 6-transcaffeoyl ajugol, 6-p-coumaroyl sucrose, β-sitosterol, isoquercetrin, piperenol A, 1-O-feruloylglucose, 7-hydroxyviteoid II, ajugol, and akuammilan-17-ol-10-methoxy- had stronger or comparable binding affinities for the selected receptors than voriconazole. ADMET and physicochemical assessments indicated variable pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiles. Overall, 7-hydroxyviteoid II emerged as the most probable lead candidate for further investigation. Experimental validation of the isolated compounds remains necessary.

Protective Effects of Moringa oleifera and Malus domestica on Thyroid Dysfunction Induced by Low-Iodine Diet and Thiocyanate in Wistar Rats

Oyinbrakemi Collins Ogu, Chinyelu Helen Madukosiri — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the protective effects of Moringa oleifera and Malus domestica on thyroid dysfunction induced by a low-iodine diet and potassium thiocyanate in Wistar rats. Forty-eight female rats were randomly assigned to eight groups and treated for 30 days with normal feed, low-iodine diet, potassium iodate, potassium thiocyanate, M. oleifera, M. domestica, or selected combinations of these interventions. Urinary iodine concentration, serum triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were assessed, and thyroid tissues were examined histologically. The low-iodine diet and the low-iodine diet combined with potassium thiocyanate reduced urinary iodine concentration and serum T3 and T4 concentrations, while increasing TSH relative to the normal control group. Potassium thiocyanate exposure under normal feeding also reduced thyroid hormone concentrations. Treatment with M. oleifera and M. domestica improved urinary iodine concentration, moderated the hormonal alterations and reduced histological disruption of thyroid architecture. The group receiving the low-iodine diet with M. oleifera and M. domestica showed preserved follicular architecture, colloid presence and no significant pathological changes. These findings suggest that M. oleifera and M. domestica may have protective effects against thyroid dysfunction induced by low iodine availability and thiocyanate exposure under the experimental conditions used in this study. Further mechanistic and dose-response studies are required to validate these preliminary findings.

Comparative Analysis of the Expected and Actual Energy and Nutrient Contents of Blenderised-formulated Tube Feeds Administered at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Disparities in the nutrient content of blenderised-formulated tube feeds (BFTFs) administered to hospitalised patients may partly determine health outcomes in clinical settings.

Aim: This study aimed to determine the actual energy and nutrient contents of BFTFs administered to two paediatric patients in relation to the prescribed amounts.

Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study examined enteral feeds administered to patients in the hospital. Two paediatric patients were randomly selected from seven patients scheduled to receive BFTFs on the following day. Nutritional prescription data, including energy, protein, fat, carbohydrate, and prescribed volume, were obtained from the hospital’s Dietetics Department. Two aliquot samples of each BFTF prepared in the Dietetics Department kitchen were collected on two separate occasions from additional quantities prepared for sampling. The samples were analysed using Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods.

Results: For Diet 1, the mean ± standard deviation values for the actual amounts served were 61.50 ± 1.05 g protein, 75.17 ± 4.67 g fat, and 112.17 ± 6.59 g carbohydrate, compared with expected values of 89.67 ± 4.18 g protein, 109.83 ± 1.17 g fat, and 163.50 ± 1.87 g carbohydrate. The corresponding mean deficits were 28.50 ± 4.64 g, 34.67 ± 3.72 g, and 51.33 ± 5.57 g, respectively. Significant differences were observed for most nutrients across the two collection days (p < 0.05). Across both diets, the volume-weighted actual composition was approximately 86.24 kcal, 4.01 g protein, 4.30 g fat, and 7.64 g carbohydrate per 100 mL. The analysed samples showed discrepancies between the actual and expected macronutrient and micronutrient contents of the BFTFs administered.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates variability between the expected and actual energy and nutrient contents of BFTFs administered to paediatric patients. Because nutrient discrepancies may affect patient outcomes, standardised recipes, precise ingredient measurement, controlled dilution, and periodic laboratory verification are recommended to improve consistency and nutritional adequacy.

Sensory Evaluation and Nutrient Composition of Biscuits Produced from Composite Flour of Yellow Maize (Zea mays) and Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The utilisation of non-conventional flours in biscuit production can provide an alternative means of supporting food diversification and security in Nigeria.

Objective: To formulate composite flour from yellow maize and coconut flour, produce biscuits from the composite blends, and determine the nutrient composition and sensory properties of the biscuits produced.

Methods: This study employed an experimental design. The raw materials were purchased, identified, and processed into flour. Yellow maize flour and coconut flour were blended in ratios of 50:50, 60:40, 80:20, and 20:80, while biscuits made from 100% all-purpose wheat flour served as the control. The nutrient composition of the biscuits was determined using standard AOAC-approved methods, whereas mineral and vitamin contents were analysed by ICP-MS and HPLC, respectively. Sensory properties were evaluated by 20 semi-trained panellists using a nine-point hedonic scale. The data generated were analysed using SPSS version 26.

Results: The composite-flour biscuits had significantly (p < 0.05) higher ranges of moisture (5.83 ± 0.01–6.57 ± 0.02 g/100 g), ash (1.62 ± 0.01–1.75 ± 0.00 g/100 g), crude protein (8.94 ± 0.01–9.85 ± 0.03 g/100 g), total fat (14.67 ± 0.02–17.71 ± 0.01 g/100 g), and dietary fibre (1.31 ± 0.01–1.47 ± 0.01 g/100 g) than the 100% wheat flour biscuit. Among the blends, sample 103 (60% yellow maize flour and 40% coconut flour) recorded the highest overall mineral content, particularly for sodium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. Sensory evaluation showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) among the biscuit samples in aroma, colour, taste, texture, or general acceptability. All formulations received high mean scores ranging from 7.47 to 8.33 on the nine-point hedonic scale.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the acceptability of biscuits produced from yellow maize–coconut composite flour and indicate their potential to increase the intake of selected nutrients while supporting the use of locally available flour alternatives for biscuit production in Nigeria.

Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (NPK) Content of Termite Mound Soils across Guinea and Sudan Savannah Zones: Implications for Soil Fertility in Bauchi State, Nigeria

Hannatu Akanang, Abubakar Habib Idris, Dedah John, Jamila Ibrahim Shekarau — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Termite mounds are ecologically important nutrient repositories in tropical African ecosystems, yet their specific contributions to nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) availability across contrasting ecological zones of Nigeria remain understudied. This study determined the NPK content of mound soils from two field-designated termite taxa, provisionally recorded as Nasutitermes cf. walkeri and Coptotermes cf. acinaciformis (with identities based only on field morphology and not yet confirmed taxonomically; see Limitations), and adjacent control soils collected from nine communities across Bogoro (Guinea savannah), Bauchi (transition zone), and Katagum (Sudan savannah) LGAs of Bauchi State. Total nitrogen was determined by Kjeldahl distillation, phosphorus by colorimetry, and potassium by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Mounds provisionally designated N. walkeri at Wuntin Dada, Bauchi LGA, recorded the highest nitrogen (0.252%), phosphorus (105.97 mg/kg), and potassium (2.72 Cmol/kg). Control soils at Federal Lowcost, Katagum, showed elevated N (0.098%) and P (25.27 mg/kg), a pattern consistent with possible nutrient redistribution from adjacent mound structures, although land-use history, manure inputs, and other site-specific factors cannot be excluded. ANOVA indicated no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between mound and control soils at most sites; this finding should not be interpreted as evidence of active equilibration and may reflect limited statistical power associated with incomplete replication (see Limitations). These preliminary results indicate that termite mound soils warrant further investigation as potential nutrient sources for low-input cropping systems in northern Nigeria, subject to taxonomic confirmation and fully replicated sampling.

Pharmacognostic Evaluation of the Leaves of Manihot esculenta Crantz. (Euphorbiaceae)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Manihot esculenta Crantz (Euphorbiaceae) is used ethnomedicinally in the management of pain, prostate cancer, diabetes and bacterial infections. This study evaluated quality-control parameters of M. esculenta leaves to support the identification and standardisation of the medicinal plant. The leaves were collected, identified, air-dried, pulverised and stored in containers. Standard procedures were used to determine the microscopic features of fresh and powdered samples, micromeritic properties, chemomicroscopic and fluorescence characteristics, moisture content, ash values and soluble extractive values. Microscopic examination revealed paracytic stomata on the abaxial and adaxial surfaces, indicating an amphistomatic leaf, with stomatal indices of 4.95% and 0.23% and stomatal numbers of 40.1 and 1.20, respectively. The powdered leaf had an angle of repose of 34.60°, a Carr’s index of 19.3% and a Hausner’s ratio of 1.24, indicating good-to-fair flow properties. Moisture content, total ash, acid-insoluble ash and water-soluble ash values were 16.8% w/w, 5.8% w/w, 0.5% w/w and 1.5% w/w, respectively. Water-, methanol- and ethanol-soluble extractive values were 17.3% w/w, 14.3% w/w and 13.7% w/w, respectively. Chemomicroscopy indicated the presence of mucilage, cellulose, starch, lignin, calcium oxalate crystals and protein. These findings provide diagnostic and physicochemical data that may support the identification, authentication and preliminary pharmacopoeial standardisation of fresh and powdered M. esculenta leaf material.

Pharmacognostic Evaluation of the Leaves of Baphia nitida G Lodd. (Fabaceae) Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Baphia nitida G Lodd, a plant belonging to the Fabaceae family, is used in the management of skin diseases, inflammation, pains and malaria. The study aims to establish the pharmacognostic profile of a local plant species - Baphia nitida G Lodd (Fabaceae). The species is widely distributed in forests regions of coastal areas of Africa, including rainforests, secondary forests, and abandoned agricultural lands, ranging from sea level to an altitude of 600m. The plant has hemostatic and anti-inflammatory properties (leaves and bark); hepatoprotective and anti-anaemic effect; antiplasmodial, analgesic and antidiarrhoeal activity. Fresh leaves of the plant were collected, identified, air-dried, pulverized and stored for analysis. Standard procedures were used to carry out microscopy, micromeritics, fluorescence properties, chemomicroscopy, moisture content, soluble extractive values and ash values. The plant was observed to possess paracytic stomata on the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of the leaf and unicellular non-glandular trichomes on the transverse section and petiole of the leaf. The stomatal distribution of the leaf was observed to be amphistomatic with a stomatal index of 0.86 % for the adaxial surface and 12.31 % on the abaxial surface. It has an undulate epidermal cell wall pattern. The flow properties of the powdered leaf revealed an angle of repose of 36.42 °, Carr’s Index of 29.38 % and Hausner’s ratio of 1.4 suggesting significant interparticle friction. Chemomicroscopy revealed the presence of mucilage, cellulose, starch, and lignin in the leaf. Extractive values of water showing the highest extractive value of 15.33 % w/w, methanol of 13.67 % w/w and ethanol the lowest 10.67 % w/w. The moisture content of the leaf was found to be 8.7 % w/w, total ash value of 4.5 % w/w, acid-insoluble ash value of 0.5 % w/w and water-soluble ash value of 1.17 %w/w. The pharmacognostic parameters established in this studies will assist in the proper identification and quality control of B. nitida leaf, ensuring its efficacy and safety in medicinal use.

Heavy Metal Distribution in Termite Mound Soils of Coptotermes acinaciformis and Nasutitermes walkeri and Adjacent Control Soils in Bauchi State, Nigeria

Hannatu Akanang, Dedah John, Jamila Ibrahim Shekarau, Abubakar Habib Idris — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the distribution and ecological implications of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn) and cadmium (Cd) in termite mound soils and adjacent control soils across nine communities in Bogoro, Bauchi and Katagum Local Government Areas of Bauchi State, Nigeria. The mound soils were attributed in the field to Coptotermes cf. acinaciformis and Nasutitermes cf. walkeri, although taxonomic confirmation was not undertaken. Soil samples were collected from three communities per Local Government Area, air-dried, ground, sieved and subjected to acid digestion. Metal concentrations were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while one-way analysis of variance and Pearson correlation analysis were used to assess spatial and species-related patterns. Iron recorded the highest concentrations, whereas Cd showed the lowest values across mound and control soils. Reported Fe concentrations ranged from 1.535 to 4.784 mg kg⁻¹, with the highest values observed in Bogoro mound soils. Mound soils generally exhibited higher numerical metal concentrations than adjacent controls, although no statistically significant species-level differences were detected (p > 0.05). Strong positive correlations were observed between Zn and Cr (r = 0.997, p = 0.046) and between Cd and Zn (r = 0.998, p = 0.038). However, these relationships were based on only three Local Government Area-level means and should therefore be interpreted cautiously. The reported Cd, Mn, Cr and Pb concentrations were below the phytotoxic and regulatory comparison thresholds adopted in the study. Nevertheless, the findings do not independently establish ecological or agricultural safety because metal speciation, bioavailability, crop uptake and human exposure pathways were not assessed. Slight Pb enrichment in Bogoro indicates the need for continued site-specific environmental monitoring near roads. Verification of the analytical units, taxonomic identities and near-identical values reported for the two termite taxa is required before termite mound soil can be recommended for agricultural amendment.

Antibacterial Activity, Phytochemical Screening, and GC MS Profiling of Ficus sycomorus Leaf and Stem Bark Extracts against Selected Bacterial Pathogens

Aisha Esther Ibrahim, Rose Abiola Binoran, Elijah Gana Abu — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity of Ficus sycomorus leaf and stem‑bark extracts against selected bacterial pathogens (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), determine the phytochemical constituents, and identify bioactive compounds in the most active extracts.

Study Design: Laboratory-based experimental study involving sequential extraction, phytochemical screening, antibacterial susceptibility testing, and GC-MS profiling.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biological Sciences, Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, between January and June 2025.

Methodology: Plant materials were extracted sequentially with hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and hot water (with a 24‑h standing step to maximise water‑soluble phytochemicals). Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening was performed using standard methods. Antibacterial activity was evaluated by disc diffusion (100–6.25 mg/mL) and broth microdilution (MIC/MBC) against standard strains of S. pneumoniae, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa. The most active extracts were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‑MS).

Results: The methanol extracts gave the highest yields (leaf 15.0%, stem bark 21.2%). Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and steroids. The methanol stem‑bark extract (FSSM) produced the largest inhibition zone against S. pneumoniae (23.00 ± 1.00 mm at 100 mg/mL) and the lowest MIC (0.78 mg/mL). The methanol leaf extract was inactive against all three bacteria. GC‑MS of FSSM identified 12 bioactive compounds, including pyrazole dioxime (2.07%), 2‑myristonyl‑glycinamide (1.40%), and a benzodiazepine derivative (3.98%). The MBC of FSSM against S. pneumoniae was 100 mg/mL (MBC/MIC ratio ≈ 128), indicating predominantly bacteriostatic action. No bactericidal activity was detected against P. aeruginosa or K. pneumoniae at the tested concentrations.

Conclusion: The methanol stem‑bark extract of Ficus sycomorus exhibits significant in vitro antibacterial activity against S. pneumoniae, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa, attributable to its high flavonoid content and GC‑MS‑identified bioactive compounds. These findings support the traditional use of the plant for respiratory infections and justify further fractionation, toxicity assessment, and synergy studies.

Physical and Geotechnical Properties of Termite Mound Soils of Coptotermes acinaciformis and Nasutitermes walkeri in Two Ecological Zones of Bauchi State, Nigeria

Hannatu Akanang, Jamila Ibrahim Shekarau, Abubakar Habib Idris, Dedah John — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Termite-mound soils may possess physical and geotechnical characteristics relevant to construction and soil management. This study compared mound soils attributed to Coptotermes acinaciformis and Nasutitermes walkeri with adjacent control soils from nine communities in Bogoro, Bauchi, and Katagum Local Government Areas of Bauchi State, Nigeria. Moisture content, liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, specific gravity, organic matter content, pH, and colour were evaluated using the reported laboratory procedures. Across the three areas, N. walkeri mound soils had the highest moisture contents (26.05–27.80%) and plastic limits (17.24–18.60%). C. acinaciformis mound soils had moisture contents of 17.70–18.00% and plastic limits of 16.60–16.90%, whereas control soils had moisture contents of 11.11–12.10% and plastic limits of 11.00–12.05%. Organic matter contents were 4.05–4.44 g/kg in N. walkeri mound soils, 4.00–4.50 g/kg in C. acinaciformis mound soils, and 2.13–2.33 g/kg in control soils. The reported analysis of variance indicated no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) among soil groups within each Local Government Area. The mean reported plasticity index of N. walkeri mound soils was 8.99%, suggesting possible suitability for selected sub-base applications. However, several tabulated liquid limits were lower than the corresponding plastic limits; therefore, the plasticity indices and related engineering interpretations require verification against the original cone-penetrometer records before practical application.