Research progress in phytochemistry and biology ofAframomumspecies

Abstract

Aframomum genus represents an enormous resource for novel compounds with a range of medicinal properties. However, these plants are under-researched and their conservation is poor. To unravel their full potential, efforts should be strengthened throughout the continent to establish the taxonomy, preserve the genus and explore novel medicinal properties.

In vitro biological activities of aqueous extracts of Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schumach. & Thonn.) taub. and Aframomum citratum (C. Pereira) K.Schum from three Agroecologic Zones in Cameroon

“…citratum show their importance in many food habits, where they are commonly used together for many traditional recipes ("pepe soup", "yellow soup", "Mbongo Tchobi", "nkwui"). Adding to their nutritional properties, they possess many traditional uses such as the treatment of inflammatory diseases (cancer, cough, diabetes, arthritis) in Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda [4,[6][7][8]. While inflammatory states are an important source of oxygenated radicals that cause many diseases [8][9][10].…”

Potential Application of Tetrapleura tetraptera and Hibiscus sabdariffa (Malvaceae) in Designing Highly Flavoured and Bioactive Pito with Functional Properties

“…Its biocidal activities against clinical viruses are well elucidated [64]. It is also effective against a wide array of inflammatory responses via many routes and the blockage of molecules like cyclooxygenase (COX), nitric oxide synthases (iNOS), cytokines, nuclear factor-κB, and matrix [65].…”

Phytochemical and Pharmacological Support for the Traditional Uses of Zingiberacea Species in Suriname - A Review of the Literature

“…A. melegueta seeds have also been used to provide a fictitious strength to alcoholic beverages, but this practice has been declared illegal and has been banned. Mans, et al Arylalkanoids such as paradols, shogaols, and gingerols, labdane diterpenoids such as zerumin A, sesquiterpenes such as humulene and caryophyllene, flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol 16,17 Antimicrobial, [19][20][21][22] antiparasitic, 24,25 antiinflammatory, 23 anticancer and chemopreventive activity, [28][29][30][31] blood pressure-lowering, 36 hypoglycemic activity; 37 (male) fertility booster; 32,33 abortifacient 35 Alpinia galanga (L.) Willd.…”

“…15 Important phytochemicals in A. melegueta seeds, seed extracts, and the seed essential oil are arylalkanoids such as paradols, shogaols, and gingerols, the aromatic ketones responsible for the strong aromatic flavor and pungent, peppery taste associated with the plant. 20 Other phytochemicals in the seeds are labdane diterpenoids such as zerumin A and (E)-labda 8(17),12-diene-15,16-dial; sesquiterpene hydrocarbons such as humulene and caryophyllene; and flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol and their derivatives. 20,21 Of note, the relative abundance and diversity of flavonoids, diterpenoids, and sesquiterpenoids may represent a chemotaxonomic marker of the genus Aframomum, distinguishing it from other genera in the Zingiberaceae.…”

“…20 Other phytochemicals in the seeds are labdane diterpenoids such as zerumin A and (E)-labda 8(17),12-diene-15,16-dial; sesquiterpene hydrocarbons such as humulene and caryophyllene; and flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol and their derivatives. 20,21 Of note, the relative abundance and diversity of flavonoids, diterpenoids, and sesquiterpenoids may represent a chemotaxonomic marker of the genus Aframomum, distinguishing it from other genera in the Zingiberaceae. 22 The traditional use of A. melegueta against respiratory tract infections is supported by the meaningful antibacterial and antifungal activity (including activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococus aureus (MRSA)) of preparations and constituents of the seeds and rhizomes.…”