Ephedra alata Growing Wild in Southern Tunisia: Phytochemical Profiling and Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial, Anti-xanthine Oxidase and Cytotoxic Potentials
Küçük Resim Yok
Tarih
2026
Dergi Başlığı
Dergi ISSN
Cilt Başlığı
Yayıncı
Natl Information Documentation Cent, Acad Scientific Research & Technology
Erişim Hakkı
info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess
Özet
This study investigated the ethnobotanical use, phytochemical composition, and biological activities of Ephedra alata from southern Tunisia. Ethnobotanical data were collected via an online questionnaire, and proximate, phytochemical, and mineral analyses were performed using standard methods. Extracts obtained with dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, butanol, ethanol, and water were assessed for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), as well as for anti-inflammatory (5-lipoxygenase inhibition), anti-xanthine oxidase, cytotoxic (HT-29 cell line), and antibacterial (MIC against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) activities. Among 450 respondents, 64% were familiar with Ephedra and 27% reported its use mainly aerial parts via infusion for cancer, digestive issues, and hypertension. Nutritional analysis revealed high fiber (41.6%), protein (9.45%), and mineral content. Phytochemical screening identified 9 of 17 targeted compounds. Mineral analysis confirmed the presence of Na, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, and Fe. Ethanol extracts showed the highest anti-xanthine oxidase (IC50 = 143mg/L) and cytotoxic activity (GI50= 780mg/L), while overall anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects were weak. These findings support the traditional use of E. alata and highlight its potential in health and nutrition applications.
Açıklama
Anahtar Kelimeler
Biological activities, Ephedra alata, Ethnobotanical survey, Mineral composition, Phytochemical screening, Proximate analysis
Kaynak
Egyptian Journal of Botany
WoS Q Değeri
Q3
Scopus Q Değeri
Q3
Cilt
66
Sayı
1
