Picralima nitida

A tropical African tree valued as a medicinal source of primarily akuammine, a potential painkiller, derived from the dried seeds.

Propagation

Germination

[2] [3] [1] [4] [2]

Vegetative

Protocol

1. cut >8cm stems with at least 2 nodes
2. trim leaf area to 50 cm2
3. treat with 100-200 ppm IBA
4. place in high humidity with low light

Nitida is difficult to propagate by stem cuttings. Less than 25% of cuttings rooted, though some improvement was seen with longer cuttings and IBA hormone treatments.[5]

In-Vitro

[6] [7]

Cultivation

[8] [5] [1] [4]

Harvest

[9]

Yield

[8] [10] [11] [9]

Soilless

Soil

[8]

Fertilization

[8] [4]

Temperature

[8]

Lighting

Pests

Ecology

[8] [1] [11] [12] [13] [14]

Morphology

[8] [1] [15]

Roots

Stem

Leaves

[12]

Inflorescence

Seeds

[16] [9]

The seeds of nitida are coated with a muscilage that makes them slippery to the touch.

The seeds have a thin seed coat.

Some seeds have protrusions.

The remnants of seed coats.

Fruit

The fruit of nitida is quite large, weighing in around 450 grams.

The fruit peel is fibrous and strong. A knife/scalpel is necessary to open the fruit. The seeds are distributed along one edge.

[8] [1] [16] [17]

Phytochemistry

[18] [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [10] [27] [28] [29] [16] [30] [12] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] [17] [37] [38] [39] [40] [41] [42]

Infraspecific Variation

[1] [15]

Biosynthesis

[18]

Distribution

[19] [20] [22] [26] [28] [16] [30] [12] [32] [17] [37] [38] [42]

Timecourse

Improvement

Identification

Inheritance

Methods

[10] [27] [28] [30] [31] [32] [36] [37] [40] [41] [42]

History & Society

[21] [25] [43] [26] [29] [44] [45] [46] [47] [33] [34] [35] [36] [13] [38]

Work Log

02 May 2025

Seed Storage

§ until mold begins to develop

The first fruit (2170725) had more seeds than #2 so I added a longer storage condition of 90 days at 4°C. That would be a useful amount of time for seed storage.

All seeds will be rinsed thoroughly and patted dry with a paper towel before storage to remove the muscilage.

One test I would like to conduct in the future is storage in the intact fruit. Based on the lack of decay over a week while I was away and the unknown amount of time since it was picked, I think it might be possible to store the seeds inside the fruit for a prolonged period, perhaps even inside the refrigerator. It would make sense that there is a germination inhibitor (chemical dormancy) inside the pulp based on the lack of precocious germination.

All of these tests could be null, of course. The germination fraction could be low or none to start with. I guess we will see in a few weeks or so.

01 May 2025

Seed groups that were soaking for 24-hours were drained and placed on petri dishes, same as the other groups.

30 Apr 2025

Fruit remained completely unchanged while I was away. Extracted the seeds from two fruit. IDs: 2170687 and 2170725.

80 seeds plus one immature were extracted from the first fruit.

One fruit weighed 464 grams in total with 87g of seeds and 377g of pulp. 71 seeds were removed plus 3 immature seeds (avg. seed weight 1.2g with the coat intact). There were probably a couple of immature seeds left behind in the crevices of the fruit pulp.

All seeds sunk in water, even the immature ones.

Seed Treatments

I would also like to do seed storage trials. One reference suggested that nitida is recalcitrant, so I don’t want to lose too many just on the off-chance that’s wrong. I certainly didn’t have any luck with dried seeds last time. I think 6 from each fruit in four groups: raw shelf storage, raw storage in the refrigerator, dehydrated storage, dehydrated then refrigerated storage. I’m not even going to attempt freezing. I also have more seeds from the first fruit than the second (50 vs. 41).

I can also do two time periods for some storage: 1 week and 1 month. I suspect the raw shelf storage will result in mold after some time. Germination tests will be contingent on the results of the initial germ tests above. Further storage tests will be contingent on the successes/failures.

21 Apr 2025

Received two fruits from Ghana.

Bibliography

1. Akabassi, Ghislain Comlan and Padonou, Elie Antoine and Déléké Koko, Kafui Inès Edna and Assogbadjo, Bidossèssi Eliane Juliette and Assogbadjo, Achille Ephrem and Zirihi, Guédé Noël, Ecophenotypic Variation of Fruits, Natural Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Picralima Nitida in Dahomey Gap: Implication for Conservation and Valorization, Environment, Development and Sustainability, vol. 23, no. 5, pp. 7670--7685, May 2021. doi: 10.1007/s10668-020-00940-6. Abstract
   Picralima nitida is an important African medicinal plant species threatened in the Dahomey Gap. It is used in pharmaceutical industries and traditional medicine to treat several diseases. Despite its importance, this the species faces a serious conservation problem. It is rare, especially in the Dahomey Gap countries in contrast to the Guinean zone. The present study aims to contribute to the conservation of P. nitida by assessing the ecophenotypic variation of the fruit, natural seed germination and seedling growth. A total of 1,200 fruits were collected in two phytodistricts of Dahomey Gap to evaluate the morphotypes. The seeds were evaluated for natural germination with different substrates. The results on ecophenotypic variation and natural seed germination revealed no significant difference (p\,{$>$}\,0.05) between the fruits from the two phytodistricts. However, three morphotypes of fruits were obtained with significant difference (p\,{$<$}\,0.05). Morphotype 1 gathered large, round and heavy fruits, morphotype 2 fruits were elongated oval-shaped, and morphotype 3 fruits were short, round and light. The highest germination rate (73.33\%) was obtained with morphotype 1 seeds on the substrate composed of 100\% top soil. The fruits from the phytodistrict of Pobè had seeds with the highest rate of germination (55.55\%) on the substrate composed of 100\% top soil. The use of organic matter in the substrate of germination stimulated the growth of P. nitida seedlings after seed germination.
2. Gbadamosi, Alaba E, Germination Biology of Picralima Nitida(Stapf) under Pretreatments, Greener Journal of Biological Sciences, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 013--020, January 2013. doi: 10.15580/GJBS.2013.1.110912247. Abstract
   Viable seed sometimes fails to germinate under favourable conditions. The study assessed the germination of Picralima nitida (Stapf) seeds following pretreatments. Fruits were collected from Benin, Southern Nigeria (lat. 60 231N and long. 50 131E). The seeds were extracted manually and processed for sowing. Seeds were pretreated using ten pretreatment methods: control; soaking in water at 900C and allowing to cool overnight; soaking in water at room temperature; seeds which coats were manually removed; soaking in concentrated sulphuric acid (H2SO4) for 1min; 2mins; and 5mins; and soaking in primarily recycled H2SO4 for 2mins, 5mins and 10mins. One hundred seeds were assigned to each treatment and replicated in two locations of Akungba (lat. 70 281N and long. 50461E) and Ibadan (lat. 70 241N and long. 30 491E). Seeds were sown in germination trays containing washed-sterilized river sand in the screen house. Germination counts were taken daily. P. nitida exhibited “durian-epigeal” germination, seeds which coats were manually removed were the first batch to germinate 17 and 22 days after sowing (DAS) in Ibadan and Akungba respectively. The highest germination percentage of 100 in Ibadan and 84 in Akungba were obtained among this batch. Seeds soaked in water at room temperature gave 86\% germination in Akungba and 63\% in Ibadan. Seeds soaked in water at 900C, and primarily recycled H2SO4 acid for 10mins did not germinate for 106days. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences at P≤0.05 in treatment and location effects. Mean germination percentage of seeds which coats were removed was significantly different from other treatments. The inherent dormancy in P. nitida seed can be treated by manually removing the seed coat before sowing.
3. Kareem, A. A. and Olaitan, O. A. and Ogunwande, O. A. and Salami, K. D., Seed Germination and Dormancy Breaking Techniques for Picralima Nitida (Stapf), Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies \& Management, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 124--130, 2023. url: https://ejesm.org/2023/04/16/seed-germination-and-dormancy-breaking-techniques-for-picralima-nitida-stapf/. Abstract
   Tree species are fast disappearing from the forest due to over exploitation without adequate regeneration which makes some of these tree species going to extinction, there is little information about breaking dormancy of Picralima nitida. This study was conducted to examine the effects of various dormancy breaking treatments under different conditions of tap water for 24 hours, hot water treatment 30 seconds, acid scarification, (H2SO4, HNO3 and HCl for 30 seconds, 1 minute and 2 minutes respectively).The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 12 treatments and replicated four times, A total number of one thousand three hundred (1300) seeds were used for this experiment, Germination count was observed for a period of 8weeks.and data generated was subjected to analysis of variance while LSD used to separate the means. The results of the effect of pre – sowing treatment on P. nitida showed the total germination was between 5\% and 95\% seeds. Seeds treated with H2SO4 (30\% diluted acids) for 2 minutes produced the highest germination percentage (PG) of 95\% while those treated with HNO3 (30\% diluted acids) for 30 seconds had 68\%., followed by seeds treated with H2SO4 (30\% diluted acids) for 1 minute had 59\%. While control (without treatment had the least 5\%) However, pre-sowing treatments had significant effects on germination of P. nitida seeds. In conclusion, this work has established an effective approach for breaking seed dormancy and enhancing seed germination of Picralima nitida and recommends the use of sulphuric acid for breaking dormancy of P. nitida seed and the time for soaking the seed in sulphuric acid should be 2 minutes in other to promote the germination process and improve the early germination of seedlings in the nursery.
4. Emmanuel, Gbadamosi Alaba, Effect of Watering Regimes and Water Quantity on the Early Seedling Growth of Picralima Nitida (Stapf), Sustainable Agriculture Research, 2014. doi: 10.22004/ag.econ.230521. Abstract
   Competing land use pattern has necessitated planting of useful forest trees on marginal lands with varying water status. A study was conducted on the effect of watering regimes and water quantity on seedlings growth of P. nitida. Seedlings were raised from seeds, transplanted in polythene bags and subjected to watering at full capacity daily, once in 3 days, 5 days; 20 ml daily, 3 days, 5 days; 15 ml daily, 3 days, 5 days; 10 ml daily, 3 days, 5 days; and flooding. The growth traits assessed were plant height, collar diameter, number of leaves; shoot, root and leaf dry weights as well as leaf area. The effect of watering regime and water quantity were significant (P ? 0.05) on quantitative morphological parameters of seedlings. Total dry weight and root dry weight were lower in both water-stressed and waterlogging than well-watered conditions, but the lowest values were obtained under flooding. However, specific leaf area (SLA) and leaf area ratio (LAR) were higher in water-stressed conditions than well-watered conditions. Relative growth rate of seedlings is related more to the net assimilation rate values than LAR and SLA. Also, root/shoot ratio was highest under daily full capacity watering. Thus, daily watering at full capacity with water availability or 15-20 ml of water per seedling during scarcity is recommended for raising P. nitida seedlings
5. Olaniyi, A. A. and Yakubu, F. B. and Nola, M. O. and Alaje, V. I. and Odewale, M. A. and Fadulu, O. O. and Adeniyi, K. K., Vegetative Propagation of Picralima Nitida (Stapf.) by Leafy Stem Cuttings: Influence of Cutting Length, Hormone Concentration and Cutting Positions on Rooting Response of Cuttings, Tanzania Journal of Forestry and Nature Conservation, vol. 90, no. 3, pp. 84--92, November 2021. doi: 10.4314/tjfnc.v90i3. Abstract
   Picralima nitida is a valuable tree species in the humid zone of West and Central Africa whose natural regeneration is threatened by seed dormancy and over exploitation. This study investigated the rooting ability of P. nitida using mature leafy stem cuttings. Two cutting length (6 and 8 cm), cutting positions (apical and basal) and three concentrations (0, 0.1 and 0.2 mg/l) of Indole-butyric acid (IBA) were evaluated using a split-split plot design. The result showed that cutting length of 8 cm significantly influenced percentage of rooted and callused cuttings than cutting length of 6 cm.~ Significantly higher number of roots occurred in 8 cm cutting length than 6 cm cutting length. Cutting positions significantly affected percentage of callused cuttings only. Cuttings treated with IBA significantly enhanced rooting percentage, number of leaves and shoot height than untreated cuttings. Interactive effect of cutting positions, cutting length and IBA concentration was significant for only rooting percentage. Mature leafy stem cutting of P. nitida can be propagated asexually using cutting length of 8 cm from any position on the shoot to improve the rooting success. ~Stem cuttings of P. nitida should be treated with IBA to enhance the rooting capacity of the species
6. Kamdem, - and Donfagsiteli, Nehemie Tchinda and Mache, Njoueretou Mfondi and Nono, Carine Temegne and Goimasse, Rodrigue and Zambou, Leila Zebaze and Nzweundji, Justine Germo and Youmbi, Emmanuel and Tonfack, Libert Brice, In Vitro Regeneration of Picralima Nitida (Stapf). T. Durand \& H. Using Zygotic Embryo, Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology, vol. 31, no. 2, pp. 143--151, 2021. doi: 10.3329/ptcb.v31i2.57342. Abstract
   Disinfected mature seed embryos of Picralima nitida, were cultured in MS medium supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of 2,4-D, BAP and NAA to determine an efficient protocol for in vitro propagation. Nine culture media made of combination of different components were used in a factorial design with three replications. Results showed up to 80 ± 4\% disinfection rate with combination of triton x- 100 (0.2\%) and sodium hypochlorite (30\%). Embryo germination was highest on control medium. Rooting was higher (2±1 roots per embryo) after 4 weeks on control medium and on BAP supplemented medium at 0.8 μM while the longest root (1.5±0.5 cm) was observed on 2,4-D supplemented medium at 1.8 μM. Black soil was suitable for leaf formation (4 ± 2 leaves) and shoot elongation (2±1 cm) after 8 weeks in acclimatisation. These results show efficient disinfection, regeneration and acclimatisation of Picralima nitida. Plant Tissue Cult. \& Biotech. 31(2): 143-151, 2021 (December)
7. Gbadamosi, Alaba E., In-Vitro Propagation of Picralima Nitida (Stapf) through Embryo Culture, African Journal of Biotechnology, vol. 12, no. 22, 2013. doi: 10.4314/ajb.v12i22. Abstract
   Embryo abortion in wide crosses and seed dormancy has hampered the mass propagation of selected tree germplasm from the wild. An in vitro plant regeneration protocol was successfully established in Picralima nitida (Stapf), a medicinal tropical plant, by culturing excised embryo from mature seeds collected from the wild. Seeds were sterilized and dissected; embryos were raised in vitro in 11 different media compositions comprising pure Murashige and Skoog (MS) and MS media supplemented with varying concentrations of cytokinins labeled A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J and K. Media type was significant on metrical traits of sprouts (P ≤ 0.05). One hundred percent survival of explants were obtained in media J while MS basal medium (K) had the lowest survival of 40\%; and mean number of leaves (1.4). Number of roots per sprout, shoot and root length responses were lowest in medium H with values of 0.13, 0.79 and 0.15 cm, respectively. Overall best growth parameters in shoot (3.38 cm) and root lengths (3.75 cm) were obtained in medium F. Mass propagation of P. nitida can be accomplished in MS media supplemented with 0.05 mg/L kinetin and 0.01 mg/L naphthalene acetic acid (NAA).Keyword: Excised embryo, In vitro culture, sprouts, metrical traits, Picralima nitidaAfrican Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 12(22), pp. 3447-3454
8. Akabassi, Ghislain Comlan and Padonou, Elie Antoine and Gbesso, Gbodja Houéhanou François and Assogbadjo, Achille Ephrem and Guede, Noël Zirihi, Effect of Climate and Habitat on Morphological Characteristics and Fruit Production of Picralima Nitida (Stapf) in West Africa, Journal of Environmental Geography, vol. 16, no. 1-4, pp. 95--101, August 2023. doi: 10.14232/jengeo-2023-44667. Abstract
   Picralima nitida is an important African medicinal plant species used in pharmaceutical industries and traditional medicine to treat several diseases. Despite its importance, the species faces conservation problem. This study evaluated the effect of climate and habitat on morphological characteristics and fruit production of P. nitida. A total of 132 fruiting trees was randomly sampled from three habitat types (home gardens, botanical garden and natural forest) and three soils (Nitisols, Arenosols and Acrisols) in Dahomey Gap and Guineo-Congolese zone.~ A total of 5 morphological traits and fruit production were recorded per tree to describe the relationship between morphological determinism of the species and climate. Pearson correlation was performed to identify the suitable habitat type in each climatic zone. Harmonized World Soil Database was used to determine physicochemical characteristics of the soil types on which the species occurred. Results revealed that the climatic zones (p\<0.001) and habitat types (p\<0.0001) influenced significantly the morphological characteristics and fruit production of P. nitida. High trees with more number of fruits were observed in home gardens on acid soils (Nitisols (pH: 5) and Arenosols (pH: 5.3)) in Dahomey Gap. In Guineo-Congolese zone, the species was more present in natural forest on acid Acrisols (pH: 5).
9. Ndukwu, M. C. and Bennamoun, L. and Anozie, O., Evolution of Thermo-Physical Properties of Akuama (Picralima Nitida) Seed and Antioxidants Retention Capacity during Hot Air Drying, Heat and Mass Transfer, vol. 54, no. 12, pp. 3533--3546, December 2018. doi: 10.1007/s00231-018-2379-2. Abstract
   Interest in picralima nitida is growing over the years because of its therapeutic application in human and animal medicine. In many countries the dried seed is compounded and sold as drugs but there is limited information on the process variables associated with its thermal processing. The study therefore, is focused on the evolution of physical properties, heat and mass transfer coefficient, specific heat capacity, energy utilization and quality characteristics of the seed during oven and microwave drying. The goal is to generate data using theoretical and empirical steps for process model development that can be applied in dryer design. The results obtained showed that the coefficient of heat and mass transfer varied from 0.0421–1.326~W/m2~K and 1.49\,×\,10–7 – 8.47\,×\,10−6~m/s respectively while the specific heat capacity ranged between 1189 and 2531~J/ kg K. The volume of the seed shrank gradually with a non-linear exponential shape for all drying treatments. The intrinsic particle and bulk densities decreased while the porosity of the seed increased with drying period, indicating an increase in internal voids of the seeds. The energy and specific energy utilized for drying peaked after 14~h, 12~h and 7~h of continuous drying at 50, 60 and 70~°C for oven drying treatment. Effective moisture diffusivities for all treatments ranged from 5.37\,×\,10−10 – 1.45\,×\,10–7 m/s2 with activation energy of 27.82~kJ/mol and 20~W/g for oven and microwave respectively. Flavonoide was the least stable at high temperature among the screend compound.
10. Akabassi, Ghislain Comlan and Padonou, Elie Antoine and Yao, Edouard Jacques Kouadio and Nakpalo, Silue and Palanga, Koffi Kibalou and Assogbadjo, Bidossèssi Eliane Juliette and {Zandjanakou-Tachin}, Martine and Assogbadjo, Achille Ephrem and Zirihi, Noël Guede, Extract Yield, Dilution Methods and Antifungal Potential of Fruits of Picralima Nitida (Stapf.) T. A. Durand \& H. Durand, Journal of the Saudi Society of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 21, no. 7, pp. 425--431, October 2022. doi: 10.1016/j.jssas.2021.11.006. Abstract
    Today, despite its status as a key sector, agriculture faces many problems due to fungi and the use of synthetic pesticides. This study evaluated the antifungal potential of Picralima nitida fruits against Fusarium oxysporum. The extracts were obtained by the Total Aqueous Extraction method (TEA) and Hydroethanolic extraction (EE70\%) method. Two dilution types of the extracts in PDA medium were tested: (1) dilution before autoclaving (AvA) and (2) dilution after autoclaving (ApA). The extracts of two fruit morphotypes from two climatic zones were tested at a concentration of 3~mg.ml−1. The yield of fruit extracts from Dahomey Gap (DG) was significantly higher ({$>$}8\%) than that from the Guinea-Congolese region (GC). A significant difference was observed in yield (p~{$<~$}0.05) between TEA type and the EE70\% type with a higher inhibition rate (27\%) of EE70\% on Fusarium oxysporum. No significant difference was observed between the pathogen inhibition rates in the dilution type (p~{$>~$}0.05). The inhibition rate of the pathogen was 25.65\% for the short fruit morphotype and 25.08\% for the large fruit morphotype. This study demonstrated possibility of using extracts of Picralima nitida in agriculture.
11. Akabassi, Ghislain Comlan and Padonou, Elie Antoine and Assogbajo, Achille Ephrem and Zirihi Guede, Noël, Economic Value, Endogenous Knowledge and Distribution of Picralima Nitida (Stapf) T. Durand and H. Durand in Africa, AAS Open Research, vol. 3, pp. 29, July 2020. doi: 10.12688/aasopenres.13087.1. Abstract
    Background: Picralima nitida (Apocynaceae) is an important African medicinal plant species. It is frequently used in traditional medicine and pharmaceutical industries for manufacture of drugs against infectious diseases, malaria, diabetes and cancer. Despite its important, the species can be rare, especially in the Dahomey Gap (in contrast to the Guineo-Congolese region). There is also a controversy on its distribution. To ensure the sustainable use of the species, this study evaluated the economic value, endogenous knowledge and effect of climate gradient on the distribution of the species in Africa. Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in the Dahomey Gap with 120 informants randomly interviewed. A literature review of scientific papers and books was used to provide information on the uses, distribution and threats of the species in the Guineo-Congolese region. Results: The results revealed that P. nitida products were more expensive in the Dahomey Gap than the Guineo-Congolese region. All parts of the species were collected and used for 34 treatments. The species had low density and distribution in Dahomey Gap compared to the Guineo-Congolese region. Conclusions: P. nitida is used across its distribution areas with important economic values. Adapted management strategies are needed for the sustainable use and conservation of the species.
12. Nwachukwu, Charles and Ngwoke, Kenneth and Eze, Peter and Eboka, Chuks and Okoye, Festus, Secondary Metabolites from Curvularia Sp, An Endophytic Fungus Isolated from the Leaves of Picralima Nitida Durand and Hook (Apocynaceae), Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research, vol. 2, no. 5, pp. 209--213, May 2018. doi: 10.26538/tjnpr/v2i5.2. Abstract
    Nature has remained a major source of pharmacologically active compounds used for the treatment of new and existing diseases, or as lead molecules for the development of synthetically derived analogues. This research was carried out to determine the secondary metabolites from the extract of Curvularia sp, an endophytic fungus associated with the leaves of Picralima nitida. The endophytic fungus was isolated and purified from the leaves of the plant material, using the conventional methods. The identity of the fungus was determined by molecular biology characterization. A combination of chromatographic methods (high performance liquid chromatography and column chromatography), spectroscopic techniques (1-D and 2-D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry), dereplication and literature data comparison were used to isolate, purify and identify the secondary metabolites in the fermentation extract of the endophytic fungus. Three previously reported compounds, acropyrone (1), 4hydroxyphenylacetic acid (2) and indole-3-acetic acid (3) were isolated for the first time from Curvularia Sp extract. Compounds 1-3 were tested for microbial and cytotoxic properties. The compounds showed no antimicrobial properties at 1 mg/mL, no observable cytotoxic properties at the dose of 10 µg/mL and no antimycobacterial properties at the dose tested. Although there was no significant bioactivity, the result further confirms the usefulness of endophytic fungi as a secondary metabolite factory for the production of drugs and drug precursors in the laboratory.
13. Djiam, Yakeu and Eric, Serge, Local Knowledge and Socio-Economic Values of Picralima Nitida ((Stapf) Th. \& H. Durand) in the Humid Forest Zone of Cameroon, 2012. url: https://www.academia.edu/100142658/Academic_year_2011_2012_LOCAL_KNOWLEDGE_AND_SOCIO_ECONOMIC_VALUES_OF_PICRALIMA_NITIDA_STAPF_TH_and_H_DURAND_IN_THE_HUMID_FOREST_ZONE_OF_CAMEROON. Abstract
    The present study was conducted in the villages of Nguila and Mbangassina of the humid forest zone of Cameroon with the aim of assessing local knowledge on and socio-economic values of Picralima nitida. It was carried out using a households’ questionnaire survey during which 65 respondents were interviewed using purposeful and snowball sampling methods. Secondary data have been collected from reports, publications and other official documents. Data have been analysed using SPSS 16.0 and Microsoft Excel. Results reveal that the species is growing naturally in forest (52 \%) and on farms (30 \%). Ninety-five percent of the respondents have free access in gathering the product with no exclusive control over the resource. P. nitida is mostly used to treat malaria, yellow fever, and typhoid fever, but often in combination with modern medicine. Half of the respondents (49\%) mix the berries’ flesh of P. nitida with other products such as leaves of guava and Aloe vera, papaya stems, and citrus juice. They found P. nitida to be more effective than modern medicine in curing typhoid. Only one group of women healers was found in Mbangassina that makes traditional medicine from P. nitida. Ninety-five percent of the respondents affirm that their health has been greatly improved and the cost of health care for the identified diseases has been reduced by about 20 \%. All household members are fully participating in the activity. On average, 12 \% of household’s income was derived from sales of P. nitida. The product fully contributes to the need for the majority of respondents (58 \%) in terms of saving in expense with regard to household cost for health care. The importance people attach to P. nitida is significantly related to their evaluation of its socio-economic values ((r=0.348), P-value (0.0025)). Males gave a significant higher mean value compared to females, thus they found the product more important than females (P-value (0.037)). There is no difference in product importance and the evaluation of its socio-economic values between age groups. The change in household welfare can be increased with increase in knowledge about medicine, places and forms of sales. Forest and environmental services should develop more educational activities to sensitize the population on sustainable resources management. Farmers should form in groups to improve their production and marketing capacities. Universities and research institutions should develop: (1) Ethnobothanical survey on P. nitida with a larger sample size in the main production sites of Cameroon; (2) Marketing research to identify the key challenges in the value-chain of the product; (3) Investigation on the domestication of the species using cost-effective production techniques for farmers; (4) Laboratory test analysis on the species to find probable side effects of the product; and (5) Organize an awareness seminar on P. nitida to give the opportunity to other actors to discover the species.
14. Betti, J. L., Ethnobotanical Study of Picralima Nitida (Apocynaceae) in the DJA Biosphere Reserve, Cameroon., African Study Monographs, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 1--27, March 2004. url: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/32171063_An_ethnobotanical_study_of_medicinal_plants_among_the_Baka_Pygmies_in_the_Dja_Biosphere_Reserve_Cameroon. Abstract
    An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from January to April 1994 in the Dja Biosphere Reserve and its adjacent areas in East and South Provinces in Cameroon. The survey aimed at identifying the plants used in the general pharmacopoeia among the Baka pygmies also using interviews with housewives and mothers who have a rich knowledge on the plants. A total of 102 medicinal plants were recorded from 37 households comprising 97 genera and 51 families. Cough, lactation failure, malaria, wound and toothache were the major ailments treated in these households. To compare the usages of the plant species, an index of performance (Ip) was calculated for each plant species, from the number of citations of treatment actually recorded from the households against the proportion of each plant among the general flora. Some plants are widely used in Africa in similar ways. The plants with high Ip are often confirmed to possess effective medicinal substances in the literature.
15. Gbadamosi, Alaba E., Quantitative Genetic Variability in Picralima Nitida (Stapf) from Seven Sources in Nigeria, Journal of Sustainable Forestry, vol. 33, no. 4, pp. 358--372, May 2014. doi: 10.1080/10549811.2014.899499. Abstract
    Intraspecific variation in useful tree species is a requirement for any improvement program. Fruits of P. nitida were collected from seven different sources along its geographic range in Nigeria; metrical traits of seeds and resulting seedlings were assessed as well as the biomass. There were significant (p ≤ .05) differences in seed metrical traits of length, width, and weight. Seeds from J4 had the highest germination percentage of 95\%, while Ore had the lowest percentage of 70. Highest mean values of 2.22 g, 3.11 cm, and 95 for weight, length, and number of seeds per pod, respectively, were obtained from Edo seeds. There were significant (p ≤ .05) differences in seedlings height, collar diameter, number of leaves, internodes, stem dry weight, root dry weight, leaf dry weight, total dry weight, and leaf area among the sources. The highest mean values of 4.33 cm (collar diameter), 2.31 cm (internodes length), were obtained from Edo collection. Other seedling traits and biomass indices were highest in J4 provenance. J4 seedlings had the highest average relative growth rate (RGR) values of 0.0450 gg−1 wk−1 while Etemi seedlings had the highest average net assimilation rate (NAR) value of 0.0063 g2 wk−1. J4 propagule had the best overall performance and is therefore recommended as a seed source for the improvement and conservation of Picralima nitida.
16. Ndukwu, M. C. and Ohia, A. and Anozie, O., Influence of Moisture Content and Compression Axis on Mechanical, Physical, and Phytochemicals Properties of Akuamma (Picralima Nitida) Fruits and Seeds, Journal of The Institution of Engineers (India): Series A, vol. 100, no. 3, pp. 417--426, September 2019. doi: 10.1007/s40030-019-00375-x. Abstract
    This research studied the effect of the moisture content and the three orthogonal axes on the physical, mechanical, and the phytochemical properties of Picralima nitida fruits and the seeds. The results showed that the compression force, the compression shear strength, the deformation, and the Poisson’s ratio depend on the compression axis and the moisture content. Rupturing the fruit through the intermediate diameter showed higher strength than rupturing the fruit along the major and the minor diameter. The Poisson’s ratio ranged from 0.468 to 0.432 at the moisture content range of 75–88.3\% wb. Phytochemical screening of the seed showed that saponins, tannins, and flavonoid were present in the seeds. Losing moisture was associated with the loss of the phytochemicals, but flavonoid showed a higher susceptibility to the moisture loss. The frequency distribution of the axial dimensions showed that 85\% of the seed major diameters fell within the median class of 27.5~mm. The surface area of the fruits ranged from 409.88 to 987.12~cm2.
17. Obasi, N.A. and Okorie, U.C. and Enemchukwu, B.N. and Ogundapo, S.S. and Otuchristi, G., Nutritional Evaluation, Phytochemical Screening and Antimicrobial Effects of Aqueous Extract of Picralima Nitida Peel, Asian Journal of Biological Sciences, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 105--112, February 2012. doi: 10.3923/ajbs.2012.105.112. Abstract
    The numerous ethno-medicinal applications of Picralima nitida plants have called for a high thorough-put investigation of all the parts of the plant including the peel that is usually discarded in order to ensure maximum utilization of the plant. In this study, nutritional evaluation, phytochemical screening and antimicrobial effects of Picralima nitida peel were carried out using standard methods, in order to determine the potentials of this discarded part of the plant. The results of proximate contents indicated the following: moisture (49.6\%), ash (16.0\%), crude fibre (10.5\%), crude lipid (7.4\%), crude protein (28.4\%) and carbohydrate (37.7\%) while its calorific value is 265.8 kcal/100 g. Thus, the nutritional value of Picralima nitida peel is high and as such it could be used as feed additives. The results of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannins and alkaloids and the aqueous extract had antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus with varying degrees. The most potent inhibitory effect was observed with Escherichia coli. These results have revealed that the peel and its extracts have pharmacological active compounds and antibacterial effects and as such could be used in ethno-medicine for the treatment of microbial infection and other ailments.
18. Mai, Zhan and Richardson, Matthew Bailey and Mann, Scott Galeung Alexander and Greene, Julia and Paul, Allyson Audrey and Perley, Jacob Owen and Deslongchamps, Ghislain and Qu, Yang, Promiscuous and Regiospecific Vinca Minor Hydroxylases for Opioid Akuammine Biosynthesis and Monoterpenoid Indole Alkaloid Diversification, Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, vol. 223, pp. 109841, June 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2025.109841. Abstract
    The medicinal plant Vinca minor produces vincamine, a compound used for neurodegenerative diseases, along with a diverse array of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs) primarily within the aspidosperma and akuammiline subclasses. While recent studies have elucidated the core biosynthetic pathways for these subclasses, the transformations of key intermediates into the vast diversity of naturally occurring alkaloids remain poorly understood. In this study, we identify and characterize two promiscuous cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) in V. minor: vincaminoreine/pericyclivine 10-hydroxylase (VmV10H) and pseudoakuammigine 10-hydroxylase (VmPs10H), both exhibiting high substrate versatility. VmV10H catalyzes the hydroxylation of structurally diverse MIAs, including vincaminoreine, pericyclivine, apparicine, and akuammidine, while VmPs10H demonstrates a preference for akuammiline type MIAs such as pseudoakuammigine, picrinine, and strictamine. Homology modeling and substrate docking reveal active site architecture of these enzymes, suggesting a consistent mechanism for C10 hydroxylation across all substrates. The discovery of VmV10H and VmPs10H not only broadens our understanding of MIA biosynthesis but also expands the enzymatic toolkit for the metabolic engineering of pharmaceutical MIAs, including akuammine, a μ-opioid receptor agonist with analgesic properties.
19. Onyekachukwu, Erwin Osiele and Osagie, Aishat Mary and Omage, Sylvia Oghogho and Omage, Kingsley and Azeke, Marshall Arebojie, Comparative Reducing and Carbohydrate Enzyme Inhibitory Activities of the Root, Leaf, and Seed of Picralima Nitida, Phytomedicine Plus, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 100710, February 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2024.100710. Abstract
    Background The ethnomedicinal uses of Picralima nitida is partly due to its antidiabetic properties. Purpose In this study, the antioxidant and total reducing power, as well as the carbohydrate hydrolysing enzymes’ inhibition potentials of the root, leaf, and seed of P. nitida were compared. Methods The antioxidant reducing power of P. nitida as well as its ability to inhibit selected enzymes of carbohydrate hydrolysis were evaluated using standard experimental methods. Results Methanol extract of P. nitida leaves exhibited the strongest reducing power (653.52 mgASC/g) followed by the seed extract (620.11 mgASC/g). The free radical scavenging powers of the extracts were concentration dependent. P. nitida seed extract exhibited the highest scavenging ability (IC50 = 190.7 µg/ml) as compared to the root extract (IC50 = 470.40 µg/ml) and leaf extract (IC50 = 560.65 µg/ml). However, the seed extract had the highest ABTS radical scavenging ability (IC50 = 174.02 ± 0.75 µg/ml) in comparison with the root extract (IC50 = 181.83 ± 1.01 µg/ml) and leaf extract (IC50 = 279.87 ± 1.39 µg/ml). Alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory properties of the extracts increased steadily with increasing concentration, as that of glibenclamide. The methanolic extract of P. nitida seed had the highest inhibitory activity (95.70 \%) as compared to that of the root (92.39 \%) and leaf (83.58 \%) extracts. Conclusion P. nitida show strong reducing as well as enzyme inhibitory properties which are concentration dependent and compares favourably with glibenclamide. Comparatively, the methanolic extract of the leaf of P. nitida exhibited the highest reducing power and inhibition of α-amylase, while the methanolic seed extract exhibited the highest ability to fight free radicals and inhibit the activity of α-glucosidase.
20. Onwuegbuchulam, Chibuzo Henry and Peter, Dabesor Anani and Moses, Olorunyolemi Imoleayo, Phytochemical Screening and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Bioactive Compounds Present in Stem Bark of Picralima Nitida (Stapf), Journal of Diseases and Medicinal Plants, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 8--16, March 2024. doi: 10.11648/j.jdmp.20241001.12. Abstract
    Over the years, traditional societies and ethnic nationalities have engaged plants with medicinal properties for the treatment of a range of diseases without any scientific knowledge of it inherent bioactive compounds that are responsible for its medicinal and pharmacological potentials. The aim of this study is to screen for the presence of phytochemical constituents and to identify the bioactive compounds domicile in the stem bark of Picralima nitida by the use of Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry. The result of the quantitative investigation of the stem bark extract of P. nitida showed the presence of some phytochemical compounds such as saponins (3.22\%), alkaloids (2.43\%), flavonoids (6.05\%) tannins (6.25\%), oxalate (12.70\%), phytate (2.87\%), anthracene glycosides (2.14\%) and cyanogenic glycosides (1.37\%). Eleven (11) different bioactive compounds were recognized in the stem bark extract of P. nitida by Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry analysis. The percentage of major bioactive compounds were vitamin E (69.31\%), Cis-Myrtanol (5.57\%), Octadecanoic acid methyl ester (4.52\%), 11-Octadecenoic acid methyl ester (4.42\%), 9-Methyl-2-phenyl-9H-imidazo (1,2-a) benzimidazole (3.70\%), Pentadecanoic acid 14-methyl- methylester (3.21\%) and 7,9-Dimethyl-6H-Indolo (2,3-b) quinoxaline (3.11\%). From these findings, it could be concluded that P. nitida stem bark is rich in various bioactive compounds which possess antioxidant, laxative and other diverse medicinal properties. Therefore, it can be recommended as a plant of phytomedicinal value.
21. Rahiman, Siti Sarah Fazalul and Ballouze, Rama and Mathandaver, Devasharmini and {Al-Amin}, Mohammad and Salhimi, Salizawati Muhamad, Opioid-like Compounds Isolated From Mitragyna Speciosa, Picralima Nitida and Clinacanthus Nutans as Potential Therapeutics for Peripheral Analgesia via Opioid and Non- Opioid Mechanisms: A Review, 2024. Abstract
    Growing evidence underscores nociceptor-immune system interactions in regulating chronic pain and inflammatory diseases. Opioid receptors play a role in modulating pain-associated inflammation via central and peripheral mechanisms. Concerns over central side effects have driven the exploration of plant-derived compounds mimicking opioids, aiming to relieve inflammation while mitigating issues like addiction. Traditionally, Mitragyna speciosa, Picralima nitida and Clinacanthus nutans are used for pain relief in conditions such as rheumatism, gastric pain and cancer. While their compounds primarily alleviate pain centrally by interacting with opioid receptors, their peripheral analgesic potential remains uncharted. The presence of opioid receptors and opioid-producing immunocytes at sensory neuron terminals hints at a peripheral opioid analgesic possibility. This review elucidates the peripheral role of the opioidergic system in pain management and explores the potential peripheral analgesic effects of compounds isolated from M. speciosa, P. nitida and C. nutans in pain management.
22. Ngozika, KANU Stella and Ijeoma, OKOROIWU Leticia and Ikechukwu, IKARAOHA Chidiebere and Johnkennedy, Nnodim, Evaluation of the Qualitative Phytochemical Composition of Extracts of Picralima Nitida Seeds, Leaves and Bark, Current Research Bulletin, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 01--08, July 2024. url: https://crbjour.org/index.php/crb/article/view/1. Abstract
    In West African traditional medicine, picralima nitida is frequently used to treat a variety of blood-related conditions, such as anemia and diabetes, as well as malaria, diarrhea, and inflammation. The ethno-medical use of several portions of this plant has been validated by strong scientific data; however, research on its contents has been restricted, and conflicting claims have been made regarding its safety profile. In this work, the qualitative phytochemical content of Picralima nitida seed, leaf, and bark extracts is determined.The results of the phytochemical study showed that the extractives had a high concentration of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, carbohydrates, and a moderate amount of flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and terpenoids. The bark showed 20\% mortality at a dose of 5000 mg/kg, with an LD50 \< 3,807.89 mg/kg, whereas the leaf and seed extracts had LD50 ≥ 5000 mg/kg (practically not dangerous).These abilities shown by the various extracts could be attributed to the phytoconstituents and some of the compounds identified in the GC-MS analysis.
23. Hennessy, Madeline R. and Creed, Simone M. and Gutridge, Anna M. and Rusali, Lisa E. and Luo, Dan and Sepehri, Bakhtyar and Rhoda, Elizabeth S. and Villegas, José A. and {van Rijn}, Richard M. and Riley, Andrew P., Discovery of Potent Kappa Opioid Receptor Agonists Derived from Akuammicine, Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, vol. 67, no. 23, pp. 20842--20857, December 2024. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00736. Abstract
    Akuammicine (1), an alkaloid isolated from Picralima nitida, is an agonist of the kappa opioid receptor (κOR). To establish structure–activity relationships (SARs) for this structurally unique κOR ligand, a collection of semisynthetic derivatives was synthesized. Evaluating these derivatives for their ability to activate the κOR and mu opioid receptor (μOR) revealed key SAR trends and identified derivatives with enhanced κOR potency. Most notably, substitutions to the C10 position of the aryl ring led to a {$>$} 200-fold improvement in κOR potency and nearly complete selectivity for the κOR. A selection of the most potent ligands was shown to possess differing abilities recruitment of β-Arrestin-2 to the κOR, indicating they have distinct signaling properties from each other and existing κOR ligands. The discovery of these κOR agonists underscores the potential of using natural products to identify new classes of potent and selective ligands and provides new tools to probe the κOR.
24. Dzotam, Joachim K. and Kuete, Victor, Picralima Nitida as a Potential Source of Antibacterial Agents, vol. 107, pp. 275--288, January 2023. doi: 10.1016/bs.abr.2022.08.019. Abstract
    Picralima nitida is a shrub or a tree used in folk medicine in the treatment of several diseases including malaria, diabetes, and cancers. The plant displayed analgesic, antimalarial and antimicrobial potential, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. In the present chapter, the phytochemical composition, as well as the antibacterial potential of this plant, is reviewed. Several classes of secondary metabolites like alkaloids (akuammine, picraline or akummicin), saponins, phenolic compounds (coumestans and glycosidic coumestans) have been identified from the plant. The methanol extract of this plant had interesting antibacterial effects on both drug-sensitive and drug-resistant phenotypes. Data compiled herein indicate that this plant can be a source of an herbal drug to combat bacterial infections.
25. Hennessy, Madeline R. and Gutridge, Anna M. and French, Alexander R. and Rhoda, Elizabeth S. and Meqbil, Yazan J. and Gill, Meghna and Kashyap, Yavnika and Appourchaux, Kevin and Paul, Barnali and Wang, Zaijie Jim and {van Rijn}, Richard M. and Riley, Andrew P., Modified Akuamma Alkaloids with Increased Potency at the Mu-Opioid Receptor, Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, vol. 66, no. 5, pp. 3312--3326, March 2023. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01707. Abstract
    Akuammine (1) and pseudoakuammigine (2) are indole alkaloids found in the seeds of the akuamma tree (Picralima nitida). Both alkaloids are weak agonists of the mu opioid receptor (μOR); however, they produce minimal effects in animal models of antinociception. To probe the interactions of 1 and 2 at the opioid receptors, we have prepared a collection of 22 semisynthetic derivatives. Evaluation of this collection at the μOR and kappa opioid receptor (κOR) revealed structural-activity relationship trends and derivatives with improved potency at the μOR. Most notably, the introduction of a phenethyl moiety to the N1 of 2 produces a 70-fold increase in potency and a 7-fold increase in selectivity for the μOR. The in vitro potency of this compound resulted in increased efficacy in the tail-flick and hot-plate assays of antinociception. The improved potency of these derivatives highlights the promise of exploring natural product scaffolds to probe the opioid receptors.
26. Haruna, M. A. and Odunsi, A. A., Proximate Composition, Mineral Elements and Phytochemical Contents of Seed Powder and Extract of Picralima Nitida as a Phyto-Additive in Poultry Diets, Nigerian Journal of Animal Science, vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 128--138, May 2022. url: https://www.ajol.info/index.php/tjas/article/view/224977. Abstract
    The phytochemical, proximate and mineral compositions of seed powder and aqueous extract of Picralima nitida as a medicinal plant was investigated. Picralima nitida pods were sourced from Ago Owu Farm Settlement, Ikoyi, Osun State, Nigeria, broken to remove the seeds which were processed into powder form and subsequently extracted using aqueous solution. The percentage yield after extraction was 27.25\%. Proximate composition (\%) of Picralima nitida seed powder (PnSP) and aqueous Picralima nitida Seed Extract (PnSE) were: crude protein (13.92±5.23\% and 16.44±4.13\%), ether extract (7.13±1.42\% and 2.08±0.15\%), crude fibre (7.15±4.26\% and 15.00±0.18\%), ash (6.82±3.74\% and 4.97±0.06\%), nitrogen free extract (58.09±5.27\% and 51.70±2.82\%) respectively. The seed powder and extract of P. nitida showed good contents of macro and micro elements. The seed powder had higher contents of most mineral elements except manganese (4.25±0.45 mg/kg), molybdenum (0.03±0.00 mg/kg) and sulphur (0.04±0.00 mg/kg) which were higher in PnSE. Saponin (267.11±4.37 mg/100g), tannin (6.84±0.41 mg/100g), flavonoid (5.47±0.84 mg/100g), alkaloid (295.19±2.80 mg/100g) and oxalate (124.35±3.78 mg/100g) were highest in PnSE compared to the PnSP. It could be concluded that Picralima nitida has adequate nutrients, minerals and bioactive secondary metabolites that could be exploited for use as a phyto-additive in poultry diets.
27. Creed, Simone M. and Gutridge, Anna M. and Argade, Malaika D. and Hennessy, Madeline R. and Friesen, J. Brent and Pauli, Guido F. and {van Rijn}, Richard M. and Riley, Andrew P., Isolation and Pharmacological Characterization of Six Opioidergic Picralima Nitida Alkaloids, Journal of Natural Products, vol. 84, no. 1, pp. 71--80, January 2021. doi: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c01036. Abstract
    The seeds of the akuamma tree (Picralima nitida) have been used as a traditional treatment for pain and fever. Previous studies have attributed these effects to a series of indole alkaloids found within the seed extracts; however, these pharmacological studies were significantly limited in scope. Herein, an isolation protocol employing pH-zone-refining countercurrent chromatography was developed to provide six of the akuamma alkaloids in high purity and quantities sufficient for more extensive biological evaluation. Five of these alkaloids, akuammine (1), pseudo-akuammigine (3), akuammicine (4), akuammiline (5), and picraline (6), were evaluated against a panel of {$>$}40 central nervous system receptors to identify that their primary targets are the opioid receptors. Detailed in vitro investigations revealed 4 to be a potent kappa opioid receptor agonist, and three alkaloids (1–3) were shown to have micromolar activity at the mu opioid receptor. The mu opioid receptor agonists were further evaluated for analgesic properties but demonstrated limited efficacy in assays of thermal nociception. These findings contradict previous reports of the antinociceptive properties of the P. nitida alkaloids and the traditional use of akuamma seeds as analgesics. Nevertheless, their opioid-preferring activity does suggest the akuamma alkaloids provide distinct scaffolds from which novel opioids with unique pharmacologic properties and therapeutic utility can be developed.
28. Aghedo, O. N. and Owolabi, J. B. and Ogbeide, O. K., Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activities of Picralima Nitida Stem Bark Extracts, ChemSearch Journal, vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 55--63, 2021. url: https://www.ajol.info/index.php/csj/article/view/220159. Abstract
    Picralima nitida has varied applications in West African traditional medicine. The stem bark of the plant was~ successively extracted with n-hexane and chloroform using cold extraction techniques. The phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of P. nitida extracts were determined using established methods. Chemical composition of the n-hexane extract was determined by GC-MS. The phytochemical screening of the n-hexane and chloroform extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, glycosides, eugenols, terpenoids, reducing sugars and proteins. The GC-MS of the n-hexane extract of P. nitida stem bark revealed the presence of 54 compounds, representing 100\% of the total identified components. The major components detected were found to be dodecanoic acid (lauric acid)(18.34\%), 9 octadecanoic acid (Stearic acid) (7.49\%) , n-hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid) (5.95\%) while among the minor component were phytol (1.73\%) and 5cholesten-3-Beta, 2,6-dioic-16-one (0.36\%). The result of the antimicrobial activity revealed that the n-hexane extract exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli while the chloroform extract exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The activity of the extracts against the fungi isolates were found to insignificant at all test concentrations. The MIC value for of n-hexane was found to be 150 and125mg/ml for S. aureus and E. coli respectively while that of chloroform extract was found to be 125 and 125mg/ml for S. aureus and E. coli respectively. This study has shown that the n-hexane extract was more active against the Gram negative bacteria while the chloroform extract was more active against the Gram-positive bacteria .This investigation therefore revealed that the stem bark extracts possess some antimicrobial properties and could be a promising source of novel drugs.
29. Awodele, Olufunsho and Coulidiaty, Abdul Gafar Victoir and Afolayan, Gbenga Oluyemi and Agagu, Sunday and Omoseyindemi, Bunmi and Busia, Kofi, Toxicological Evaluation of {\emph{Picralima Nitida}} in Rodents, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 236, pp. 205--219, May 2019. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.03.008. Abstract
    Picralima nitida (Stapf) T. Durand and H. Durand (Apocynaceae), over the years has shown wide range of usage in African folk medicine and its safety profile in instances of prolonged use and pregnancy are major concerns. The study aimed to extensively investigate the toxicological effects of Picralima nitida in albino rodents and make appropriate extrapolations to humans. In the first phase of the experiment which evaluated the genotoxicity and subchronic toxicity of P. nitida, a total of 40 albino rats (male and female) were randomized into 4 groups of 10 animals per group. Group 1 (control group) was orally administered with 10\,ml/kg of distilled water. Animals in Groups 2 to 4 were administered with aqueous seed extract of the plant at 100, 200, 400\,mg/kg body weight/day, respectively. Oral administration at the designated doses was continued for 90 days after which they were sacrificed by cervical dislocation for subchronic toxicological assessment. In the genotoxicity phase, 30 female mice were randomized into 5 groups, the control group was treated with 10\,ml/kg of distilled water, groups 2 to 4, treated with 100\,mg/kg, 200\,mg/kg and 400\,mg/kg doses of extract, and the 5th group had cyclophosphamide (0.1\,mg/kg). The mice were sacrificed on the 28th day for bone marrow sampling for genotoxicity testing. In the second phase of the experiment which evaluated the teratogenicity of P. nitida, graded doses of the extract were administered to pregnant rats from day 1–19. Three groups of 6 female rats per group were administered 75, 150 and 300\,mg/kg aqueous extract of P. nitida and a fourth group of 6 rats used as control was administered distilled water at 10\,ml/kg. On day 20, 3\,dams from each group were sacrificed and the foetuses were harvested through abdominal incision for physical examination. The 3 remaining dams were allowed to litter. The litters were sacrificed at 6 weeks for biochemical, haematological and histological analyses. The LD50 determined was 707.107\,mg/kg. The aqueous seed extract of P. nitida was found to be genotoxic at all the test doses. There were no significant alterations in haematologic and renal parameters following subchronic administration. Notable dynamics were observed in hormonal characteristics: there was a significant dose-dependent reduction in FSH while oestradiol and progesterone showed dose-dependent increase. Furthermore, P. nitida may cause hepatopathy as shown by hepatic venous and sinusoidal congestion on hepatic histology. Also, there is non-significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL. No significant alteration in glucose level. Furthermore, the extract produced a statistically significant decrease in birth weight (p\,{$<$}\,0.0001). The extract induced a significant (p\,{$<$}\,0.05) increase in creatinine and transaminase levels in the first filial of group 150\,mg/kg. The platelet count was increased in all treated group (p\,{$<$}\,0.005). All the histology of kidney in 150\,mg/kg group showed vascular congestion. In conclusion, the aqueous seed extract of P. nitida has teratogenic effects and should not be used in pregnant women. Also, P. nitida is highly genotoxic and may cause hepatic damage and depletion of glutathione pool on chronic use, thereby causing oxidative stress and its potential sequelae.
30. Feyisayo, Akinwunmi Kemi and Victor, Amadi Chizi, Assessment of Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Properties of Picralima Nitida Seed Extracts, Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 9--17, January 2019. doi: 10.5897/JMPR2018.6680. Abstract
    The study investigated the antioxidant potential as well as the inhibitory potential of the seed extracts of Picralima nitida on \α-amylase and \α-glucosidase enzymes. The methanolic, aqueous and coconut water extracts were obtained using 70\% methanol, distilled water and coconut water, respectively. Antioxidant properties were studied in vitro using DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-pricrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), Hydroxyl Radical Averting Capacity (HORAC), Total Phenol Content (TPC), and Total Flavonoid Content (TFC) assays. Different concentrations (0.1 - 0.5 mg/ml) of the extracts were subjected to \α-amylase and \α-glucosidase inhibitory assays using acarbose as standard. Absorbance was measured at 540 (for \α-amylase) and 405 nm (\α-glucosidase). The percentage of \α-amylase and \α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the extracts and their IC50 values were determined. The seed extracts of P. nitida showed significant antioxidant potential. The inhibitory activity of the extracts on \α-amylase and \α-glucosidas compared favourably with acarbose with the methanolic extract possessing the highest inhibitory activity. The methanolic extract also possessed the highest antioxidant capacity with the lowest IC50 value among the extracts. The results indicate that the seed extracts of P. nitida possess significant antioxidant properties and are effective inhibitors of \α-amylase and \α-glucosidase enzymes. Key words: Antioxidants, \α-amylase, \α-glucosidase, diabetes, phenolics, flavonoids, Picralima nitida. \ 
31. P, Ngaïssona and C, Nkounkou Loumpangou and Fa, Namkona and Jn, Koane and Tsiba, Gouollaly and Jl, Syssa-Magalé and Jm, Ouamba, Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of the Polar Extracts Picralima Nitida Stapf. (Apocynaceae) Family, Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 198--204, 2016. url: https://www.phytojournal.com/archives/2016.v5.i4.913/phytochemical-screening-and-evaluation-of-the-antioxidant-activity-of-the-polar-extracts-picralima-nitida-stapf-apocynaceae-family. Abstract
    Picralima nitida Stapf., synonymous Tabernaemontana nitida known under the vernacular name of "Ngongabé" is a medicinal plant of the family of Apocynaceae, widely used in Central African traditional medicine. This study is a contribution to the phytochemical screening and evaluation of the antioxidant activity of this species. Preliminary phytochemical tests conducted on various crude extracts of P. nitida have revealed the presence of some chemical groups: alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, triterpenes and sterols. The estimate of the content of total phenols and flavonoids by calorimetric methods showed that the extracts methanolic, hydro-methanolic and aqueous of bark of trunk and root of Picralima nitida Stapf., showed that the extracts are rich in these compounds. The evaluation of the antiradical capability realized by the DPPH test on TLC plate on the one hand, and by the method of trapping of the free radical DPPH on microplate 96 wells, revealed that the various extracts of P. nitida respectively have a moderated reduction (2, 867 ± 0,002 mg/mL, 3,161 ± 0,016 mg/mL and 2,693 ± 0,004 mg/mL) for the extracts methanolic, hydro-méthanolic and aqueous, but relatively low compared to the molecule of reference, the ascorbic acid (0,064 ± 0,000 mg/mL).
32. Nwaogu, Linus A, Chemical Profile of Picralima Nitida Seeds Used in Ethnomedicine in West Africa, Futo Journal Series, vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 110--122, December 2016. Abstract
    The chemical composition of the ground seeds of Picralima nitida were determined using standard methods. The results of the phytochemical analyses indicated the presence of alkaloids (5.33±0.57\%), tannins (9.60±0.05\%), cyanogenic glycosides (3.39±0.03\%), oxalates (4.36±0.02\%), saponins (13.50±0.50\%), flavonoids (5.50±0.40\%), phenols (1.79±0.03\%) and phytates (0.17±0.004\%). The moisture content of the seed was 10.67±0.34\%, ash 3.67±0.34\%, protein 3.50±0.18\%, crude fiber 8.78±0.60\% fat 3.49±0.10\% and carbohydrate 69.90±078\%. The seeds contained vital essential amino acids especially leucine (11.83\%), phenylalanine (9.21\%) and tyrosine (6.08\%) and non-essential amino acids. The ground seed contained more unsaturated fatty acids (78.87\%) than saturated fatty acids (20.13\%). There were appreciable presence of macro and micro-elements with iron (172.40±0.70), zinc (55.70±0.30) and manganese (38.20±0.20) mg/kg being high. The ground seeds had vitamins A 123.40±0.30 and E 3285.70±0.05 µg/100 respectively. The study revealed that Picralima nitida seeds contain important phytochemicals, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals which, if used, will not only offer medicinal benefits to its users but could also serve as a good source of nutrients.
33. N’dri, Fulgence Kouakou Kouassi and {Nene-Bi}, Semi Anthelme and Zahoui, Ouga Stanislas and Traore, Flavien, Phytochemical and Toxicological Studies of an Extract of the Seeds of Picralima Nitida (Stapf) (Apocynaceae) and Its Pharmacological Effects on the Blood Pressure of Rabbit, Journal of Biology and Life Science, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 114, January 2015. doi: 10.5296/jbls.v6i1.6615. Abstract
    The phytochemical screening of the seeds extracts of Picralima nitida has highlighted the presence of alkaloids and terpenes poly sterols in chloroform solutions, methanol and in the aqueous. Unlike chloroform and methanol solutions, the aqueous revealed the presence of saponins. An acute toxicity study in mice showed that the aqueous extract of Picralima nitida would be slightly toxic with a lethal dose (LD) 50 \% of 9120.11 mg/kg of body weight (bw). This extract, in rabbits induced a dose-dependent hypotension for the doses between 3.10-6 g / kg bw and 2.10-5 g/kg bw with an effective dose 50\% (ED50) equal to 4.07×10-6 g/kg bw. In the presence of atropine (6.10-9 g/kg), a competitive inhibitor of acetylcholine, the hypotensive effect of aqueous extract of Picralima nitida is reduced, confirming in this extract the presence of cholinomimetics substances of muscarinic type. The results therefore suggest the presence of cholinomimetics substances in the aqueous extract of Picralima nitida seed. These substances could be responsible for the hypotensive effect of this extract. The same extract did not induce diuresis in rats.
34. Owolarafe, T. A. and Dosunmu, S. O. and Yakubu, M. T. and Lawal, A. T. and Akolade, J. O. and Muhammed, M. B. and Ononamadu, C. J., Phytochemical Investigation and Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay of Extracts of Picralima Nitida (Apoceanacea )Staph. Seeds, Asian Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology, vol. 2, no. 3, pp. 11--15, 2014. url: https://asianpharmacology.com/home/article_abstract/18. Abstract
    Phytochemical study was undertaken on the seed of picralima nitida staph. Phytochemical analysis based on test of colouration and precipitate formation was carried out on four different extracts of P. nitida seed , extraction was based solvents polarities and are aqueous, methanol, ethylacetate and hexane. Also brine shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA) of the extracts was carried out to detect possible cytotoxicity effects and possible pharmacological activities of the plant seed. Cytotoxicity was evaluated in terms of LC50 (lethality concentration) were carriedout in three replicates of the concentration of the seed extracts and survining brine shrimp were recorded after 24 hours. The tests carried out shows the presence of saponin, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids, glycoside and anthraquinones. However no reducing sugar was observed with alkaloids, glycoside and steroids found/observed in all the extracts. The extracts were potent against the briŶe shriŵp ǁith LC5Ϭ ǀalues of ϯϭ7, ϯϭ7, ϭϭϬ aŶd Ϯ9 ppŵ (μg/ŵL), respectively.This indicates the presence of bioactive components in these seed extracts which could account for the reported pharmacological effects of the plant. Thus, the results support the uses of these plant seeds in traditional medicine.
35. Erharuyi, Osayemwenre and Falodun, Abiodun and Langer, Peter, Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Picralima Nitida (Apocynaceae) in Tropical Diseases: A Review, Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, vol. 7, no. 1, pp. 1--8, January 2014. doi: 10.1016/S1995-7645(13)60182-0. Abstract
    Picralima nitida Durand and Hook, (fam. Apocynaceae) is a West African plant with varied applications in African folk medicine. Various parts of the plant have been employed ethnomedicinally as remedy for fever, hypertension, jaundice, dysmenorrheal, gastrointestinal disorders and malaria. In order to reveal its full pharmacological and therapeutic potentials, the present review focuses on the current medicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological and toxicological activities of this species. Literature survey on scientific journals, books as well as electronic sources have shown the isolation of alkaloids, tannins, polyphenols and steroids from different parts of the plant, pharmacological studies revealed that the extract or isolated compounds from this species posses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypoglyceamic, hypotensive, antiplasmodial, antimicrobial, antiulcer and antitumorigenic activities. Results from various scientific investigations to date have revealed the potential of the extract from the plant or isolated compounds for use in the treatment and prevention of various kinds of human diseases. However, further studies on the extracts and pure compounds from this species is required to completely assess its phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological profile as well as the mechanism of action behind these pharmacological activities exhibited by the compounds isolated from this species.
36. Forstinus, Ozioma and {Marie-Esther}, Uju and Ikechukwu, Goddy, Evaluation of the Antimicrobial and Larvicidal Potentials of Seed Extracts Of Picralima Nitida, International Journal of Natural Sciences, vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 23--30, June 2014. url: https://eajournals.org/wp-content/uploads/Evaluation-of-the-Antimicrobial-and-Larvicidal-Potentials-of-Seed-Extracts-of.pdf. Abstract
    The increasing rate of resistance to antibiotics and insecticides by microorganisms and various insect pests have become an issue of Public Health concern. In this research, various concentrations of extracts were tried against three Gram negative isolates, zones of inhibitions were recorded in (mm) after 24hrs. Fourth (4th) instar larvae of A. gambiae were tested against various extract concentrations, and mortality recorded over 72hours. Results obtained showed that both methanolic and aqueous extract of seed samples showed excellent antimicrobial activity against the isolates tested. The aqueous extract showed more activity against both E. coli and E. aerogenes, however Klebsiella spp were more susceptible to the methanolic extract. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values of isolates determined using broth dilution method reveals that the MIC of the methanolic Extracts were ≤20mg/ml, ≤30mg/ml and ≤10mg/ml for E. coli, E. aerogenes and K. pneumonia respectively. MIC values of the aqueous extracts were found to be ≤30mg/ml, ≤20mg/ml and ≤30mg/ml for E. coli, E. aerogenes and K. pneumonia respectively. Result of larvicidal assay revealed that the methanolic seed extract of P. nitida showed a remarkable activity against the insect larva with a mean mortality of 18.7  1.5, 19.3  1.2 and 19.7  0.6 for extract concentrations of 0.5mg/ml, 1.0mg/ml and 2.0mg/ml respectively after 24hours exposure. However, aqueous extract had mean mortalities of 4.7  1.2 and 6.3  1.2 at concentrations of 4.0mg/ml and 5.0 mg/ml after 72hours exposure time. LT95 values of methanolic seed extract at (P ≤ 0.05) was found to be 29 hrs and 16 hrs at concentrations of 0.5mg/ml and 1.0mg/ml, while LT95 value for aqueous extract at (P ≤ 0.05) was 489 hrs at 1.0mg/ml. This research shows that seed extracts of P. nitida are both efficient antimicrobials and larvicidal agents and its potential can be harnessed for future use.
37. Jacques, Kouam and K. Mabeku, Laure B. and R. Kuiate, Jules and T. Tiabou, Alembert and T. Fomum, Zacharias, Antimicrobial Glycosides and Derivatives from Roots of Picralima Nitida, International Journal of Chemistry, vol. 3, no. 2, pp. p23, June 2011. doi: 10.5539/ijc.v3n2p23. Abstract
    Phytochemical screening was performed on the roots of Picralima nitida, resulting in the isolation of three new coumestan glycosides, 3-hydroxy-9-methoxy-2-[2’(E)-3’-methyl-4’-O-β-D-galactopyranosylbutenyl]-8isoprenylcoumestan (1), 3-hydroxy-9-methoxy-2-[2’(E)-3’-methyl-4’-O-β-D-glucopyranosylbutenyl]-8-[2”(E) -3”-methyl-4”-oxobutenyl]coumestan (2), and 3-hydroxy-9-methoxy-4-[2’(E)-3’-methyl-4’-O-β-Dglucopyranosylbutenyl]-8-[2”(E)-3”-methyl-4”-oxobutenyl]coumestan (3). Acid hydrolysis of 1, 2 and 3 afforded three new coumestan, 3-hydroxy-9-methoxy-2-[2’(E)-4’-hydroxy-3’-methylbutenyl]-8isoprenylcoumestan (4), 3- hydroxy-9-methoxy-2-[2’(E)-4’-hydroxy-3’-methylbutenyl]-8-[2”(E)-3”-methyl-4”oxobutenyl]coumestan (5), and 3-hydroxy-9-methoxy-4-[2’(E)-4’-hydroxy-3’-methylbutenyl]-8-[2”(E)-3”methyl-4”-oxobutenyl]coumestan (6), respectively. Structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data and chemical transformations. Compounds 1 - 6 showed antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus vulgaris.
38. Duwiejua, M. and Woode, E. and Obiri, D. D., Pseudo-Akuammigine, an Alkaloid from Picralima Nitida Seeds, Has Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Actions in Rats, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 81, no. 1, pp. 73--79, June 2002. doi: 10.1016/S0378-8741(02)00058-2. Abstract
    Pseudo-akuammigine, an alkaloid from Picralima nitida seed extract was investigated for anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions using the carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema and the rat tail flick. The alkaloid, at 1.0, 5.0 and 50 mgkg−1, dose-dependently inhibited the mean maximal paw swelling attained during 6 h to 78.2±2.1, 74.7±4.3 and 59.5±2.3\% of the mean control value respectively when administered p.o. 1 h before induction of oedema. At the same dose levels, the total paw swelling over the 6-h period was also significantly (P{$<$}0.05) reduced to 83.2±9.7, 73.0±5.0 and 55.8±8.3\% of the mean control response respectively. When administered after induction of oedema, ψ-akuammigine (5.0 mgkg−1) significantly (P{$<$}0.05) reduced established rat paw swelling to 82.8±4.6\% of the control response after 5 h. As an analgesic, ψ-akuammigine was 3.5 and 1.6 times less potent than morphine and indomethacin respectively. The ED50 values were Morphine (2.9 μM), ψ-akuammigine (10 μM) and indomethacin (6.3 μM). Naloxone (1.0 mgkg−1) significantly (P{$<$}0.05) antagonised the analgesic action of the alkaloid by 35.8±6.8\%. Pseudo-akuammigine therefore exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. The analgesic actions are mediated via interaction with opioid receptors.
39. Saxton, J. E., Chapter 11 Alkaloids of Picralima Nitida, vol. 10, pp. 501--519, January 1968. doi: 10.1016/S1876-0813(08)60263-8. Abstract
    This chapter discusses the occurrence of alkaloids of Picralima nitida. The occurrence of several of the Picralima bases in other genera has been reported. Akuammine—for example, is present in Vinca rosea L. The chapter discusses the application of mass spectroscopy in the investigations of the chemistry of Picralima alkaloids. The application of mass spectroscopy in this area has been extensive and knowledge of the fragmentation patterns of the alkaloids of known structure has considerably assisted the elucidation of the structures of new bases. In this connection, the mass spectra of akuammicine and its dihydro and tetrahydro derivatives are discussed in the chapter, together with those of appropriately substituted derivatives and cognate alkaloids. The chapter discusses the biogenesis of the Picralima alkaloids. The co-occurrence in Picralima nitida of such a wide variety of structural types of indole alkaloids is of much interest from their biogenesis point of view.
40. Robinson, Robert and Thomas, A. F., The Alkaloids of Picralima Nitida, Stapf, Th. and H. Durand. Part I. The Structure of Alkuammigine, Journal of the Chemical Society (Resumed), no. INVALID\_SCITE\_VALUE, pp. 3479--3482, January 1954. doi: 10.1039/JR9540003479. Abstract
    No abstract available
41. Millson, M. F. and Robinson, R. and Thomas, A. F., Notes on the Alkaloids of Picralima, Experientia, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 89--91, March 1953. doi: 10.1007/BF02178329. Abstract
    Für das AlkaloidAkuammin wird die neue Bruttoformel C22H26O4N2 aufgestellt und durch Vergleich verschiedener UV.- und IR.-Spektren und Reaktionen das Vorliegen einer 5-Hydroxydihydroindol-Verbindung abgeleitet. Die Zinkstaubdestillation liefert 3-Äthyl-Pyridin und vermutlich Skatol. Als Arbeitshypothese wird fürAkuammin die Formel (III) vorgeschlagen. Die UV.- und IR.-Spektren und Reaktionen von Pseudoakuammigin, Akuammigin, Akuammilin und Akuammicin sind gleichfalls diskutiert.
42. Adepiti, Awodayo Oluwatoyin and , Divinah Kwamboka, Nyamboki and , Kibrom Gebreheiwot, Bedane and , Anthony Adebolu, Elujoba and , Michael, Spiteller and {and Matasyoh}, Josphat Clement, Secondary Metabolites from the Stem Bark of Alstonia Boonei and the Seeds of Picralima Nitida with Antibacterial Activities, Natural Product Research, vol. INVALID\_SCITE\_VALUE, no. INVALID\_SCITE\_VALUE, pp. 1--6, April 2024. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2349254. Abstract
    The methanol stem bark extract of A. boonei and methanol seed extract of P. nitida, were subjected to purification using chromatographic techniques. A. boonei yielded loganic acid (1), sweroside (2) and secoxyloganin (3), while P. nitida afforded (1), akuammidine (4), akuammicine (5) and alstonine (6). The structures of the compounds were elucidated based on their nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) profiles and comparison with literature data. The antibacterial activities of the compounds were evaluated using the disc diffusion assay with chloramphenicol as the positive control. Alstonine (6) demonstrated weak activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus agalactiae with zones of inhibition of 9.3 ± 0.6 and 10.0 ± 0.0 mm, respectively. This is the first report of sweroside (2) and secoxyloganin (3) in A. boonei.
43. Igwegbe, Chinenye Adaobi and Ovuoraye, Prosper Eguono and Białowiec, Andrzej and Okpala, Charles Odilichukwu R. and Onukwuli, Okechukwu Dominic and Dehghani, Mohammad Hadi, Purification of Aquaculture Effluent Using Picralima Nitida Seeds, Scientific Reports, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 21594, December 2022. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-26044-x. Abstract
    Aquaculture effluent treatment is essential to eliminate the undesirable characteristics of water to ensure cleaner production and~environmental sustainability. In an effort to develop green coagulant without compromising cost, this research investigated the feasibility of aquaculture effluent (AQEF) pollutant removal using Picralima nitida seeds extract (PNSC) and its bio-coagulation/adsorption kinetic characteristics with the substrate in water. The coagulative decrease was observed in terms of TD (turbidity), TSS (total suspended solids), COD (chemical oxygen demand), BOD (biochemical oxygen demand), and COLR (color) from AQEF. The active coagulant was extracted from the seeds and analyzed for its spectral and morphological characteristics through FTIR and SEM. The influence of PNSC dosage (0.10–0.50~g~L−1), pH (2–10), settling time (0–60~min), and temperature (303–323~K) on the removal of contaminants were surveyed. The process kinetics of coagulation–flocculation were also explored. Maximal TD reduction of 90.35\%, COD (82.11\%), BOD (82.38\%); TSS (88.84\%), and COLR (65.77\%) at 0.2~g~PNSC~L−1, pH 4, and 303~K was achieved. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests proved that pH, temperature, and settling time had a significant effect on pollutant removal. Results fitted Von Smoluchowski’s perikinetics theory at the optimum conditions, which gave R2\,{$>$}\,0.900. At perikinetics circumstances, the~Kb~(reaction rate) and~\$\$\{t\}\_\{f\textbackslash frac\{1\}\{2\}\}\$\$~(half-life) correspond to 0.0635~Lg−1~min−1~and 1.9~min. More so, sorption results fitted the Lagergren over the Ho~model. Additionally, the net cost of using PNSC to handle 1 L of AQEF (including electricity, material, and labor costs) was evaluated to be €4.81. Overall, the PNSC appears reliable and useful in pretreating AQEF for improved biodegradability and superior effluent quality.
44. Onyechi, Kenechukwu Keluo and Igwegbe, Chinenye Adaobi, Determination of Shelf Life of Picralima Nitida, Ciprofloxacin and Pefloxacin Using Bio-Based Concentration-Activity Relationship Technique, Asian Journal of Research in Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 1--17, February 2019. doi: 10.9734/AJRIMPS/2019/46309. Abstract
    Aim: The shelf-life of Picralima nitida (herbal drug) and two orthodox drugs (ciprofloxacin, and pefloxacin) has been examined. Methodology: The stability studies were carried out using the bio-based concentration-activity relationship technique. Accelerated stability studies were applied on the basis of first-order degradation kinetics to determine the shelf-life of the drugs at different temperatures (45 – 70°C) and storage times (1, 2, 3 and 4 wks). Ciprofloxacin and pefloxacin were used as the comparative drugs for the estimation of the specifications for Picralima nitida. Their half-life (t1/2) and temperature coefficient (Q10) were also investigated.
45. Onyechi, Kenechukwu Keluo and Igwegbe, Chinenye Adaobi, Shelf Life Determination of Picralima Nitida, Glibenclamide, Ciprofloxacin and Pefloxacin Using UV Spectrometry Physicochemical Technique, 2018. Abstract
    Shelf life is one of the important property of a drug for safety and quality. The shelf life of Picralima nitida (herbal drug) and three orthodox drugs (glibenclamide, ciprofloxacin, and pefloxacin) has been investigated. The stability study was done using UV spectrometry method. Their shelf life was determined by accelerated stability studies on the basis of first-order degradation kinetics and t10\% (the time required to degrade 10\% of a drug at 27°C). The stability was studied at temperatures of 45°C, 60°C and 70°C during the course of one month at one-week interval (1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks). The initial concentration of 5, 2.5, 25 and 100 mg/ml was used for Picralima nitida, glibenclamide, ciprofloxacin, and pefloxacin, respectively in the study. Influence of storage time and temperature on the drug samples were investigated. The half-life was also evaluated. All experiments were carried out in the year 2012. The concentrations of the drug samples were found to decrease with increase in storage time and temperature. The shelf life of ciprofloxacin, pefloxacin, and glibenclamide were found to be 535.18, 298.17 and 134.31 weeks, respectively. The half-life of ciprofloxacin, pefloxacin and glibenclamide were also found to be 3553.85, 1980 and 891.89 weeks, respectively. The shelf life and half-life of Picralima nitida could not be determined using UV spectrometry technique because of the presence of complex metabolites, which results in the irregular increase in absorbance and instability. Storage time and temperature was found to have a great influence on the concentration of the drug substances.
46. Akabassi, G. C. and Padonou, E. A. and Chadare, F. J. and Assogbadjo, A. E., Ethnobotanic importance and use value of Picralima nitida (stapf) in South-Benin (West Africa)., International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, vol. 11, no. 5, pp. 1979--1993, 2017. doi: 10.4314/ijbcs.v11i5.4. Abstract
    African continent rich in biodiversity loses its resources due to the ignorance of their uses by the local populations. It becomes important to assess the knowledge of populations on the importance of resources to elaborate their conservation strategy and their sustainable management. The purpose of the present study is to document the knowledge of the local populations on the use value of P....
47. Otoo, Lydia Francisca, Reproductive Studies and Safety Assessment of an Ethanolic Seed Extract of Picralima Nitida ((Stapf) Th. \&h. Durand), March 2015. url: https://ir.knust.edu.gh/items/8a68eb3b-6c48-42bf-9ae5-e9f0671d2cd3. Abstract
    Almost all parts of Picralima nitida are widely used in Ghana and other West African countries for the treatment of various ailments, including diabetes, malaria, stomach problems, pneumonia, jaundice, measles, cough, typhoid fever and gonorrhea. Captured in the population patronizing the plant product are men and women of child bearing age. Womenare susceptible to disorders during pregnancy and sometimes require treatment to protect themselves and theirdeveloping fetus. The Thalidomide catastrophe sparked the focus into reproductive studies to ensure that xenobiotics are not toxic to both parents and unborn child.The effect of the ethanolic seed extract of Picralima nitida on reproduction in both males and females and its safety for use was,therefore, investigated in mice and chicks. The effect ofthe extract on reproductive indices in female mice was studied after pretreatment with 30 – 300 mg/kg orally for fourteen days prior to mating. Possible alterations in estrous cycle or hormonal imbalance after ingestion of the extract was also studied.The chick uterotrophic assay to assess the estrogenic effect of the extract was conducted after seven-day treatment of chicks with 30-300 mg/kg of extract. The number of mounts, sniffing and licking of female, genital and non-genital grooming in an orientation behaviour test to study the aphrodisiac potential of the Picralima nitida extract in male mice when treated with the extract was also conducted. Androgenic effect of the extract was also assessed by studying comb growth in White Leghorn chicksafter a sixday treatment with 50-500 mg/kg. The safety for use of the extract was also assessed. Results indicated that mating index and gestation period were not affected. At a dose of 300 mg/kg female fertility decrease from 100 \% to 25\%.Litter size wasmoderately reduced with increasing doses. Daily administration of the extract to female rats prolongedsignificantly(p{$<$}0.001) the duration of estrous at a dose of 300 mg/kg.The extract showed estrogenic effect as there was significant (p{$<$}0.01) increase in uterus weight to body ratio.The extract caused a significant boost in attempted mounts(p{$<$}0.001), sniffing and licking of female(p{$<$}0.05), genital and non-genital grooming(p{$<$}0.05)at a dose of 300 mg/kg. There was however no significant (p{$>$}0.05) changes in the above parameters upon continuous administration of the extract for 14 days. Although sperm numbers diminished significantly (p{$<$}0.001) especially at a dose of 300 mg/kg, sperm motility, viability and morphology remained unchanged.The extract caused a significant (p{$<$}0.01) dose dependent increase in comb growth, similar to, Testosterone propionate. However, the extract antagonized the effects of testosterone when administered together.Safety studies revealed insignificant (p{$>$}0.05) changes in haematological and biochemical parameters, making the extract safe up to the doses used.Per the findings the ethanol seed extract of Picralima nitidahas antifertility effects in females and enhances sexual ability in males.It could be detrimental to females who have plans of conception whilst using the extract to treat a particular ailment but inure to the benefit of others who desire contraception. In males, the extract could be used as an aphrodisiac.