Phyllanthus muellerianus
|
|
Phyllanthus muellerianus Common Names: Myrobalan, African Myrobalan, Wild Gooseberry Scientific
Classification Kingdom: Plantae Clade: Tracheophytes Clade: Angiosperms Clade: Eudicots Clade: Rosids Order: Malpighiales Family: Phyllanthaceae Genus: Phyllanthus Species: P. muellerianus Synonyms: Phyllanthus muellerianus (Kuntze) Exell., Phyllanthus casticum Willemet, Phyllanthus floribundus Müll.Arg. Morphological Description Phyllanthus muellerianus is a perennial herb or straggling shrub, occasionally
climbing, that can grow to heights of 1–12 m depending on environmental
conditions. Its key features include: · Stem: Glabrous, woody at the base, often reddish-brown when
mature, with slender, flexible branches · Leaves: Alternate, elliptic to obovate, 2–8 cm long and 1–3 cm wide,
with a rounded or acute apex, dark green above and paler beneath · Flowers: Monoecious, small (2–3 mm), greenish-yellow, borne in
axillary clusters; male flowers with 5–6 tepals, female flowers slightly larger · Fruit: Spherical capsules, 3–5 mm in diameter, green turning
reddish-brown when ripe, containing numerous tiny seeds The plant’s adaptability
to various growth forms makes it a versatile species in tropical ecosystems
(Burkill, 1994). Distribution and Habitat Phyllanthus muellerianus is widely distributed across tropical Africa, from Senegal
and Mali in the west to Uganda and Tanzania in the east, and south to Angola
and South Africa (latitudes 15°N–25°S). It thrives in a variety of habitats,
including: · Forests: Evergreen and deciduous forests (altitude 0–1,500 m) · Savannas: Open woodlands and grasslands (annual rainfall 800–1,800 mm) · Riverbanks: Moist, shaded areas near streams and rivers It prefers well-drained,
loamy or sandy soils (pH 5.0–7.0) and tolerates partial shade to full sun, with
temperatures ranging from 18–35°C (Tropical Plants Database, n.d.). Ethnopharmacology Phyllanthus muellerianus is a multipurpose plant widely utilized in
traditional African medicine for its diverse therapeutic properties. It is
commonly employed to treat wounds, menstrual disturbances, pain, dysentery,
gonorrhea, stomach sores, skin and eye infections, bronchitis, urethral
discharges, and gastrointestinal issues. Phytochemical analyses have identified
bioactive compounds in P. muellerianus, including geraniin, gallocatechin,
quercetin-3-O-gallate, ellagic acid, and methylellagic acid rhamnoside. These
constituents contribute to its pharmacological activities, such as
anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, hypocholesterolemic,
and immunomodulatory effects. Scientific studies have provided evidence
supporting several of these traditional uses. For instance, research has
demonstrated the plant's wound-healing efficacy, validating its application in
treating skin injuries. Additionally, P. muellerianus has been shown to restore
ovarian functions, reduce blood glucose levels, and improve lipid profiles and
sex hormone levels, indicating potential benefits in managing reproductive and
metabolic disorders. While these findings highlight the therapeutic potential
of Phyllanthus muellerianus, further research is necessary to fully elucidate
its efficacy, safety profile, and possible interactions with conventional
medications. Consultation with healthcare professionals is recommended before
incorporating P. muellerianus into therapeutic regimens. · Antimalarial: In Cameroon, the Baka Pygmies use stem bark decoctions for
malaria; methanol extracts and ethyl acetate fractions from the leaves to mice
infected with Plasmodium berghei. The treatments resulted in significant
parasite suppression and increased survival rates among the mice. Additionally,
the study observed modulation of CD4+ T-cell populations, suggesting an
immune-enhancing effect. Phytochemical analysis identified compounds such as
gallocatechin, quercetin-3-O-gallate, ellagic acid, and methylellagic acid
rhamnoside, which may contribute to the observed antimalarial activity (Ofokansi
et al., 2023). · Wound Healing: In Ghana, leaf pastes treat wounds; studies report a 50%
increase in fibroblast proliferation with aqueous extracts at 100 μg/ml (Agyare
et al., 2011). · Fever Relief: In Nigeria, root infusions reduce fever; methanol extracts
lowered rectal temperature by 1.5°C in rats at 200 mg/kg (Okoli et al., 2010). · Gastrointestinal Aid: In Ivory Coast, leaf decoctions manage
diarrhea; ethanol extracts inhibited Escherichia coli growth (MIC 125 μg/ml) (Brusotti et al.,
2011). · Anti-inflammatory: Ellagitannins (e.g., geraniin) reduced paw
edema in rats by 40% at 20 mg/kg (Agyare et al., 2011). · Antiviral: Aqueous extracts inhibited HIV-1 replication by 60% at 100
μg/ml in vitro (Doughari & Okafor, 2008). · Antimicrobial: Stem bark essential oils showed MIC of 64 μg/ml
against Staphylococcus aureus (Brusotti et al., 2011). · Hepatoprotective: Aqueous leaf extracts reduced
acetaminophen-induced liver damage in mice by 55% at 200 mg/kg (Ajiboye et al.,
2017). ⚠ Toxicity Profile: No significant toxicity is reported at
traditional doses (<500 mg/kg). However, high doses (>1,000 mg/kg) of
aqueous extracts caused mild renal inflammation in rats, suggesting caution in
prolonged use (Ajiboye et al., 2017). Additional Uses · Nutrition: Fruits are edible, containing 10–15% sugars and traces of
vitamin C (0.5 mg/100g) (Burkill, 1994). · Ecological: Used in agroforestry to stabilize riverbanks and prevent
erosion. · Industrial: Stem bark yields tannins (15–20%) for leather tanning
(Tropical Plants Database, n.d.). References |
|
| Compounds of Phyllanthus muellerianus |
|
| References |