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VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects of ethanolic extract of Cnidoscolus chayamansa (Hospital too far) leaves
Authors
Imarhobobhor L, Okorhi Damisa F B, Enakireru D B
Abstract
The growing prevalence of multidrug‑resistant
microorganisms and immune‑related disorders has intensified the search for
plant‑derived therapeutic agents. Cnidoscolus chayamansa, commonly known
as “Hospital Too Far,” is traditionally used for managing various ailments, yet
its antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties remain poorly documented.
This study evaluated the ethanolic extract of C. chayamansa (CCEE)
against multidrug‑resistant bacteria and in Wistar rats. Phytochemical
screening revealed alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, tannins, saponins,
anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides, and cyanogenic glycosides. Hematological
parameters were assessed using a Susmex machine, while immunological activity
was measured through delayed‑type hypersensitivity (DTH) and hemagglutination
assays. CCEE produced no significant changes in most hematological indices,
though mean corpuscular volume increased slightly at 50 mg/kg. DTH assays
showed mild stimulation of cellular immunity, with footpad swelling at 50 mg/kg
(0.65±1.12) and 200 mg/kg (0.70±1.52), compared to the negative control
(0.39±0.66), but markedly lower than the positive control (7.15±0.21). Humoral
immunity was suppressed, as antibody titers decreased at both doses relative to
controls. Antibacterial testing demonstrated activity only against Escherichia
coli and Enterococcus faecalis, with inhibition zones of 10-14 mm.
The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations for sensitive isolates
were 50 mg/ml. Acute and sub‑acute toxicity studies revealed no lethality up to
5,000 mg/kg, confirming safety at lower doses. However, histological analysis
showed degenerative changes in liver, spleen, kidney, heart, and bone marrow at
higher doses (100-200 mg/kg).Overall, CCEE exhibited limited antibacterial
activity, suppressed both cellular and humoral immunity, and was safe at lower
doses, though higher concentrations caused organ alterations.
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Pages:30-37
How to cite this article:
Imarhobobhor L, Okorhi Damisa F B, Enakireru D B "Antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects of ethanolic extract of <i>Cnidoscolus chayamansa </i>(Hospital too far) leaves". International Journal of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 30-37
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