Batis maritima, commonly referred to as Saltwort, is a halophyte found in coastal regions of various parts of North America, South America and Africa. It has historically been used in traditional medicine in the treatment of ailments such as eczema and cutaneous infections, among others. Since many of these ailments are known to be caused by fungal and bacterial pathogens, it is highly likely that extracts of B. maritima possesses strong antimicrobial properties, and, as such, may contain phytochemicals which have been known to display these phytochemical properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a phytochemical screening of alcoholic extracts of B. maritima leaves and compare these to the traditional uses of the herb. Alcoholic crude extracts of leaves of the B. maritima shrub were subjected to a series of phytochemical analyses. The results of these analyses indicated the presence of glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, tannins and terpenoids. Upon a comparison of the phytochemicals detected and the documented traditional uses of the herb, a correlation may be seen between the two. Many of the phytochemicals present in the extract have been previously noted to be used in medicine to treat many diseases that are similar to those that have historically been treated with B. maritima.

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Present case study was carried out during 2013, to assess the microbiological quality of three freshwater fishes (Hoplosternum littorale, Cichlasoma bimaculatum and Hoplias malabaricus) offered for sale at two local markets in region 6. Fishes were examined for microbial quality and compared to the recommended levels of U.S Food and Drug Association (FDA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for fish and fisheries product. The results revealed based on the statistical test CHI-SQAURE that the microbial levels for the three freshwater fishes deviated significantly from U.S FDA and EPA expected standard. ANOVA done on the results further showed that there was no significant difference in coliform level among fish species and markets and for E. coli level, there was also no significant difference except at p<0.01. In conclusion, the three freshwater fishes offered for sale at local markets were not of acceptable standard based on U.S FDA and EPA Acceptable level and thus implores risk to human health.

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