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In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves1.Introduction: 1.1 Medicinal plants; 1.2 Medicinal plants of Bangladesh; 1.3 Vernacular names of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.4 Taxonomy of C. cordifolia; 1.5 Cucurbitaceae family; 1.5.1 Species of Cucurbitaceae available in Bangladesh; 1.6 Coccinia cordifolia; 1.7 Synonyms of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.8 Distribution of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.9 Habitant of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.10 Morphology of plant; 1.10.1 Stem of C. cordifolia; 1.10.2 Leaf of C. cordifolia; 1.10.3 Flower of C. cordifolia; 1.10.4 Fruit of C. cordifolia; 1.10.5 Seed of C. cordifolia; 1.10.6 Root of C. cordifolia; 1.11 Reproduction and dispersal of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.12 Vegetative propagation of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.13 Nutritional value of Coccinia cordifolia; 1.14 Local uses of C. cordifolia in Bangladesh; 1.15 Toxicology of C. cordifolia2. Literature Review: 2.1 Phytochemical constituents; 2.2 Pharmacological properties; 2.2.1 Anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic activity; 2.2.1.1 In vivo study on human model; 2.2.1.2 In vivo study on animal model; 2.2.2 Hypolipidemic and antidyslipidemic activity; 2.2.3 Anti-inflammatory activity; 2.2.4 Analgesic and antipyretic activity; 2.2.5 Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity; 2.2.6 Anthelmintic activity; 2.2.7 Cytotoxic, antitumer and pesticidal activity; 2.2.8 Antioxidant activity; 2.2.9 Chemoprotective activity; 2.2.10 Antiulcer and cytoprotective activity; 2.2.11 Anti-hepatotoxic activity; 2.2.12 Fertility inducing activity; 2.2.13 Larvicidal, repellent and egg hatching inhibition property; 2.2.14 Antilithiatic activityRationale and objective of the work3. Methods and Materials: 3.1 Collection and preparation of plant material; 3.2 Extraction of the plant material; 3.3 Preparation of mother solution; 3.4 Partition of mother solution; 3.4.1 Partition with n-hexane; 3.4.2 Partition with carbon tetrachloride; 3.4.3 Partition with chloroform; 3.4.4 Partition with ethyl acetate; 3.4.5 Collection of aqueous Fraction; 3.5 Antioxidant activity; 3.5.1 DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical test; 3.5.1.1 Principle; 3.5.1.2 Apparatus and reagents; 3.5.1.3 Procedure; 3.5.2 Total phenolic content; 3.5.2.1 Principle; 3.5.2.2 Apparatus and reagents; 3.5.2.3 Procedure; 3.5.3 Total flavonoid content; 3.5.3.1 Principle; 3.5.3.2 Apparatus and reagents; 3.5.3.2 Procedure; 3.6 Brine shrimp lethality bioassay; 3.6.1 Principle; 3.6.2 Apparatus and reagents; 3.6.3 Procedure; 3.6.3.1 Preparation of sea water; 3.6.3.2 Hatching of brine shrimp; 3.6.3.3 Preparation of test solutions; 3.6.3.5 Counting of nauplii; 3.7 Antimicrobial activity by disc diffusion method; 3.7.1 Principle; 3.7.2 Apparatus and reagents; 3.7.2.1 Materials; 3.7.2.2 Test sample of Coccinia cordifolia; 3.7.2.3 Test organisms; 3.7.3 Procedure; 3.7.3.1 Preparation of the medium; 3.7.3.2 Sterilization procedure; 3.7.3.3 Preparation of test plate; 3.7.3.4 Preparation of discs; 3.7.3.5 Preparation of test sample; 3.7.3.6 Application of test samples; 3.7.3.7 Diffusion and incubation; 3.7.3.8 Determination of antimicrobial activity by measuring the zone of inhibition4. Results and Discussion: 4.1 Antioxidant test results; 4.1.1 DPPH test results; 4.1.1.1 Preparation of standard curve4.1.1.2 Preparation of aqueous fraction curve; 4.1.1.3 Discussion; 4.1.2 Total phenol content test results; 4.1.2.1 Preparation of standard curve; 4.1.2.2 Total phenolic content present in aqueous fraction; 4.1.2.3 Discussion; 4.1.3 Total flavonoid content result; 4.1.3.1 Preparation of standard curve; 4.1.3.2 Total flavonoid content present in aqueous fraction; 4.1.3.3 Discussion; 4.2 Brine shrimp lethality bio-assay result; 4.2.1 Preparation of standard curve; 4.2.2 Preparation of aqueous fraction curve; 4.2.3 Discussion; 4.3 Antibacterial test results; 4.3.1 Zone of inhibition of standard and aqueous fraction; 4.3.2 Discussion5. Conclusion: 5.1 Conclusion6. Reference
Citation preview
IN V
A Disser
VITRO PH
FRA
rtation subm
fulfillmen
HARMACO
ACTION O
mitted to th
nt of the req
D
OLOGICA
OF COCCI
he Departme
quirements f
Sub
Samiya K
ID: 20
Departme
East W
AL INVES
CINIA COR
ent of Pharm
for the degr
bmitted B
Khondaker
010-3-70-0
ent Of Pha
West Univer
STIGATI
RDIFOLIA
macy, East
ree of Bache
By
r Rinta
048
armacy
rsity
IONS OF A
IALEAVE
West Unive
elor of Phar
AQUEOU
ES
ersity, in pa
rmacy.
i
US
artial
Dedication This Research paper is dedicated to
My beloved parents,
Who are my biggest Inspirations
ii
DECLARATION BY THE CANDIDATE
I, Samiya Khondaker Rinta, hereby declare that this dissertation, entitled In vitro
pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves submitted
to the Department of Pharmacy, East West University, in the partial fulfillment of the
requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honors) is a genuine & authentic research
work carried out by me under the guidance of Nigar Sultana Tithi, Lecturer and Mahbubul
Hoque Shihan, Senior Lecturer, Department of Pharmacy, East West University, Dhaka. The
contents of this dissertation, in full or in parts, have not been submitted to any other Institute or
University for the award of any Degree or Diploma of Fellowship.
----------------------------------
Samiya Khondaker Rinta
ID: 2010-3-70-048
Department of Pharmacy
East West University
Aftabnagar, Dhaka
iii
CERTIFICATION BY THE SUPERVISOR
This is to certify that the dissertion, entitled In vitro pharmacological investigations of
aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves is a bonafide research work done, under our
guidance and supervision by Samiya Khondaker Rinta (ID: 2010-3-70-048), in partial fulfillment
of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Pharmacy.
------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
Nigar Sultana TithiMahbubul Hoque Shihan
Lecturer & SupervisorSenior Lecturer & Co-supervisor Department of Pharmacy Department of Pharmacy
East West UniversityEast West University
Aftabnagar, Dhaka Aftabnagar, Dhaka
iv
ENDORSEMENT BY THE CHAIRPERSON
This is to certify that the dissertation, entitled In vitro pharmacological investigations of
aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves is a bonafide research work done by Samiya
Khondaker Rinta (ID: 2010-3-70-048), in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Bachelor of Pharmacy.
---------------------------------------
Dr. Chowdhury Faiz Hossain
Professor & Chairperson
Department of Pharmacy
East West University
Aftabnagar, Dhaka
v
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
All praise is for Almighty for all the bounties granted to me and only with His guidance and help
this achievement has become possible.
It is my pleasure and proud privilege to express my heartiest regards and gratitude to my
respected teacher and supervisor Nigar Sultana Tithi, Lecturer, Department of Pharmacy, East
West University, for her expert supervision, constructive criticism, valuable advice, optimistic
counseling, constant support and continuous backup and encouragement throughout every phase
of the project as well as to prepare this dissertation.
I am thankful to my honorable teacher and co-supervisor, Mahbubul Hoque Shihan, Senior
Lecturer, Department of Pharmacy, East West University, for his amiability to provide me with
untiring guidance, whole hearted cooperation and for his extensive knowledge in research that
helped me in all the spheres to perform the research work.
My special thanks to Nishat Nasrin, Senior Lecturer, Department of Pharmacy, East West
University and for giving me her valuable time, constant advising, encouragement and for her kind words during my troubling moments.
I would also like to put forward my most sincere regards and profound gratitude to Dr.
Chowdhury Faiz Hossain, Professor and Chairperson, Department of Pharmacy, East West
University, for giving me the opportunity to conduct such an interesting project and for facilitating a smooth conduction of my study
I would also like to extend my thanks to all the research students in the lab, lab officers and other
staffs of the Department of Pharmacy for their help and assistance, friendly behavior and earnest
co-operation which enabled me to work in a very congenial and comfortable ambience.
I owe special thanks to my fellow research group members for their immense support and
contribution in my research work.
Last but not the least, I would like to thank my family, and friends for their care and
encouragement during my research work.
vi
CONTENTS
1. Introduction 1-21
1.1 Medicinal plants 1
1.2 Medicinal plants of Bangladesh 2
1.3 Vernacular names of Coccinia cordifolia 7
1.4 Taxonomy of C. cordifolia 7
1.5 Cucurbitaceae family 8
1.5.1 Species of Cucurbitaceae available in Bangladesh 8
1.6 Coccinia cordifolia 11
1.7 Synonyms of Coccinia cordifolia 13
1.8 Distribution of Coccinia cordifolia 13
1.9 Habitant of Coccinia cordifolia 14
1.10 Morphology of plant 15
1.10.1 Stem of C. cordifolia 15
1.10.2 Leaf of C. cordifolia 15
1.10.3 Flower of C. cordifolia 16
1.10.4 Fruit of C. cordifolia 17
1.10.5 Seed of C. cordifolia 17
1.10.6 Root of C. cordifolia 18
vii 1.11 Reproduction and dispersal of Coccinia cordifolia 18
1.12 Vegetative propagation of Coccinia cordifolia 18
1.13 Nutritional value of Coccinia cordifolia 19
1.14 Local uses of C. cordifolia in Bangladesh 19
1.15 Toxicology of C. cordifolia 21
2. Literature Review 22-38
2.1 Phytochemical constituents 22
2.2 Pharmacological properties 22
2.2.1 Anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic activity 22
2.2.1.1 In vivo study on human model 22
2.2.1.2 In vivo study on animal model 24
2.2.2 Hypolipidemic and antidyslipidemic activity 25
2.2.3 Anti-inflammatory activity 27
2.2.4 Analgesic and antipyretic activity 28
2.2.5 Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity 28
2.2.6 Anthelmintic activity 30
2.2.7 Cytotoxic, antitumer and pesticidal activity 30
2.2.8 Antioxidant activity 31
2.2.9 Chemoprotective activity 32
2.2.10 Antiulcer and cytoprotective activity 32
viii 2.2.11 Anti-hepatotoxic activity 33
2.2.12 Fertility inducing activity 35
2.2.13 Larvicidal, repellent and egg hatching inhibition property 35
2.2.14 Antilithiatic activity 36
Rationale and objective of the work 38
3. Methods and Materials 39-57
3.1 Collection and preparation of plant material 39
3.2 Extraction of the plant material 39
3.3 Preparation of mother solution 40
3.4 Partition of mother solution 40
3.4.1 Partition with n-hexane 40
3.4.2 Partition with carbon tetrachloride 40
3.4.3 Partition with chloroform 40
3.4.4 Partition with ethyl acetate 40
3.4.5 Collection of aqueous Fraction 42
3.5 Antioxidant activity 42
3.5.1 DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical test 42
3.5.1.1 Principle 42
3.5.1.2 Apparatus and reagents 43
3.5.1.3 Procedure 43-44
ix
3.5.2 Total phenolic content 44
3.5.2.1 Principle 44
3.5.2.2 Apparatus and reagents 45
3.5.2.3 Procedure 45-46
3.5.3 Total flavonoid content 46
3.5.3.1 Principle 46
3.5.3.2 Apparatus and reagents 47
3.5.3.2 Procedure 47-49
3.6 Brine shrimp lethality bioassay 49
3.6.1 Principle 49
3.6.2 Apparatus and reagents 50
3.6.3 Procedure 50-52
3.6.3.1 Preparation of sea water 50
3.6.3.2 Hatching of brine shrimp 50
3.6.3.3 Preparation of test solutions 51
3.6.3.5 Counting of nauplii 52
3.7 Antimicrobial activity by disc diffusion method 52
3.7.1 Principle 52
3.7.2 Apparatus and reagents 52
3.7.2.1 Materials 52
x
3.7.2.2 Test sample of Coccinia cordifolia 53
3.7.2.3 Test organisms 53
3.7.3 Procedure 53-57
3.7.3.1 Preparation of the medium 53
3.7.3.2 Sterilization procedure 54
3.7.3.3 Preparation of test plate 55
3.7.3.4 Preparation of discs 55
3.7.3.5 Preparation of test sample 56
3.7.3.6 Application of test samples 56
3.7.3.7 Diffusion and incubation 56
3.7.3.8 Determination of antimicrobial activity by measuring
the zone of inhibition 57
4. Results and Discussion 58-71
4.1 Antioxidant test results 58
4.1.1 DPPH test results 58
4.1.1.1 Preparation of standard curve 59
4.1.1.2 Preparation of aqueous fraction curve 60
4.1.1.3 Discussion 61
4.1.2 Total phenol content test results 62
4.1.2.1 Preparation of standard curve 62
xi 4.1.2.2 Total phenolic content present in aqueous fraction 63
4.1.2.3 Discussion 63
4.1.3 Total flavonoid content result 64
4.1.3.1 Preparation of standard curve 64
4.1.3.2 Total flavonoid content present in aqueous fraction 65
4.1.3.3 Discussion 65
4.2 Brine shrimp lethality bio-assay result 66
4.2.1 Preparation of standard curve 67
4.2.2 Preparation of aqueous fraction curve 68
4.2.3 Discussion 69
4.3 Antibacterial test results 70
4.3.1 Zone of inhibition of standard and aqueous fraction 70
4.3.2 Discussion 71
5. Conclusion 72
5.1 Conclusion 72
6. Reference 73-79
xii
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1: Coccinia cordifolia plant 12
Figure 1.2: Coccinia cordifolia, A: Twig with flower; B: Male flower; C:
Female flower; D: L.S. female flower; E: Male flower with
corolla split open; F: T.S. Ovary 13
Figure 1.3: Regional distribution of C. cordifolia (Synonym: Coccinia
indica) and other most frequently mentioned plants 14
Figure 1.4: C. cordifolia leaves, fruits and flowers. 15
Figure 1.5: Leaves of C. cordifolia 16
Figure 1.6: Flower of C. cordifolia 16
Figure 1.7: Fruits of C. cordifolia- (a) unripe fruit; (b) ripe fruit; (c) cross-
section of unripe fruit 17
Figure 1.8: Seeds of C. cordifolia 17
Figure 1.9: Roots of C. cordifolia 18
Figure 3.1: Drying of extract using rotary evaporator 39
Figure 3.2: Schematic representation of the partitioning of methanolic
crude extract of Coccinia cardifolia leaves 41
Figure 3.3: Mechanism of free radical scavenging activity 42
Figure 3.4: Schematic diagram of DPPH test 44
Figure 3.5: Schematic diagram of flavonoid content test 49
Figure 3.6: Artemia salina 24 hours old 51
Figure 3.7: Autoclave machine 54
Figure 3.8: Laminar hood 55
Figure 3.9: Incubator 57
Figure 4.1: Regression line and R2 value of ascorbic acid 59
Figure 4.2: Regression line and R2 value of aqueous fraction of Coccinia
xiii
cordifolia 60
Figure 4.3: Comparison between IC50 values of standard and extract 61
Figure 4.4: Graphical representation of assay of phenolic content of
ascorbic acid 62
Figure 4.5: Comparison between absorbances of standard and extract over
different concentrations 63
Figure 4.6: Graphical representation of assay of flavonoid content of
ascorbic acid 65
Figure 4.7: Plot of % mortality and predicted regression line of Tamoxifen
(standard) 67
Figure 4.8: Plot of % mortality and predicted regression line of aqueous
fraction (extract) 68
Figure 4.9: Comparison between LC50 values of standard and extract 69
Figure 4.10: Comparison of antimicrobial activity between Azithromycin
and aqueous fraction 71
xiv
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1.1: Name and medicinal uses of some common plants in Bangladesh 2
Table 1.2: Showing the vernacular names of Coccinia cordifolia 7
Table 1.3: Some plants of Cucurbitaceae family available in Bangladesh 9
Table 1.4: Nutritional value of per 100gm of edible portion of C. cordifolia 19
Table 1.5: Use of C. cordifolia in different parts of Bangladesh 19
Table 3.1: Composition of 100mg Folin-Ciocalteu Reagent 44
Table 3.2: Different concentrations of ascorbic acid solution preparation 48
Table 3.3: List of micro-organisms 53
Table 4.1: % inhibition and IC50 values of ascorbic acid 59
Table 4.2: % inhibition and IC50 values of aqueous fraction of Coccinia
cordifolia 60
Table 4.3: Free radical scavenging capacity of ascorbic acid and aqueous
fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 61
Table 4.4: Total phenol content of ascorbic acid 62
Table 4.5: Total phenolic content of aqueous fraction of leaves of Coccinia
cordifolia 63
Table 4.6: Total flavonoid content of ascorbic acid 64
Table 4.7: Total flavonoid content of aqueous fraction of leaves of
Coccinia cordifolia 65
Table 4.8: Results of the bioassay of Tamoxifen (standard) 67
Table 4.9: Results of the bioassay of aqueous fraction (extract) 68
Table 4.10: Cytotoxic activity of Tamoxifen and aqueous fraction of
Coccinia cordifolia leaves 69
Table 4.11: Antimicrobial activity of standard sample (Azithromycin) and
aqueous fraction 74
xv
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
g microgram l microliter AAE Ascorbic Acid Equivalent
ALK.P alkaline phosphatase
ALP alkaline phosphatase
ALT alkaline aminotransferase
AST aspartate aminotransferase
DMSO dimethyl sulfoxide
DPPH 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl
CI Coccinia indica
CLEt Coccinia indica leaf extract
CP cyclophosphamide
FCR Folin-Ciocalteu Reagent
g gram
GSH glutathione
hr hour
IC50 The concentration of a drug which is required for 50% of inhibition of a
specific test.
LC50 The lethal concentration required to kill 50% of the sample population of
a specific test.
LPO Lipid peroxidation
L.S. Longitudinal Section
MDA malondialdehyde
mg milligram
ml milliliter
xviPI protease inhibitor
SGOT Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase
SGPT Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase
SOD Superoxide dismutase
STZ Streptozotocin
TB Total billirubin
TP Total proteins
T.S. Transverse Section
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
UV Ultraviolet
WHO World Health Organization
xvii
ABSTRACT
The study was designed for pharmacological investigation of aqueous fraction of methanol
extract of the leaves of Coccinia cordifolia (Family: Cucurbitaceae). The powdered leaves of
Coccinia cordifolia were extracted with methanol and then partitioned with n-hexane, carbon
tetrachloride, chloroform and ethyl acetate consecutively. The aqueous fraction remaining at the
end was investigated for free radical scavenging activity (DPPH Test), total flavonoid content,
total phenol content, brine shrimp lethality test and antimicrobial test. From DPPH test the IC50
values obtained were 42.82g/ml and 25.19g/ml for standard (ascorbic acid) and aqueous fraction, respectively. The fraction contained 64.38mg AAE/g of total phenolic content and
212mg AAE/g of total flavaniod content. Screening for cytotoxic properties using brine shrimp
lethality bioassay with tamoxifen (LC50 value of 13.38g/ml) as positive control showed that the fraction have considerable cytotoxic potency exhibiting LC50 value 12.39g/ml. In antimicrobial activity investigation, the aqueous fraction showed low antibacterial and antifungal activity
against the tested organisms compared to azithromycin (30g/disc) that was used as positive
control.The aqueous fraction showed strong cytotoxic activity, moderate antioxidant activity and slight antimicrobial activity. Further investigations are needed for the proper identification and
isolation of these bioactive compounds to produce safer drugs for treatment of harmful diseases.
Key words: Coccinia cordifolia, Brine shrimp lethality bio-assay, DPPH test, phenolic content,
flavonoid content,antimicrobial activity.
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves
Chapter One INTRODUCTION
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 1
1.1 Medicinal Plants
The use of natural products with therapeutic properties is as ancient as human civilization and,
for a long time, mineral, plant and animal products were the main sources of drugs. The
development of organic chemistry resulted in a preference for synthetic products for
pharmacological treatment. Plant derived medicines are used in selfmedication in all cultures.
Only a fraction of the worlds available plants have been studied. Discovery and use of synthetic
drugs have caused side effects or adverse reactions that were not for seen in preclinical and
clinical examinations. As a result, a resurgence of interest in the study and use of medicinal
plants has been taken place during the last two decades. As a result of modern isolation
techniques and pharmacological testing procedures, new plant drugs found their way into
modern medicine as purified substances rather than in the form of galenical preparations (Reddy
et al., 2010). Compounds such as muscarine, physostigmine, cannabinoids, yohimbine, forskolin,
colchicine and phorbol esters, all obtained from plants, are important tools used in
pharmacological, physiological and biochemical studies (Williamson et al., 1996).
Plants are valuable for modern medicine in four basic ways:
1) They are used as sources of direct therapeutic agents.
2) They serve as raw materials base for elaboration of more complex semi synthetic chemical
compounds.
3) The chemical structures derived from plant sources can be used as models for new synthetic
compounds.
4) Finally plants can be used as taxonomic markers for the discovery of new compounds
(Reddy et al., 2010).
The study of traditional human uses of plants is called Ethnobotany. It is a recognised way to
discover new effective medicines for future. In ancient Greece, plants were classified and
descriptions of them were given by scholars. It aids in the identification process. Researchers
identified in 2001 that 122 compounds that are used in modern medicine, were isolated and
identified from "ethnomedical" plant sources. The current use of the active elements of the plants
is 80% similar to those of ethnomedical use (Fabricant and Farnsworth, 2001).
In vitro pha
About 25
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Table 1.1
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Distribu
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armacological in
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ation (WHO)
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d medicinal u
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f aqueous fracti
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exclusively o
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quinine and
roseus, atro
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gladesh
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from plants,
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f, stem, root,
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medicinal p
plants in Ban
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121 such a
ssential by th
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ugs obtained
hona spp.,
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d Ayurvedic
of the count
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the subconti
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Distribu
Plant pa
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lessens b
Scientifi
Family:
Name: N
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
inflamma
loss treat
Scientifi
Family:
Name: G
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
and diges
armacological in
c Name: Ae
Rutaceae
Bel (local nam
tion: Cultiv
art used: Fru
al uses: dys
c Name: An
Annonaceae
Ata, Sharif
name)
tion: Cultiv
art used: Fru
al uses: jau
burning sensa
c Name: Az
Meliaceae
Neem
tion: Plante
art used: wh
al uses: an
ations, gastr
tment
c Name: Alo
Liliaceae
Ghritakumari
tion: Cultiv
art used: lea
al uses: pur
stive
nvestigations of
egle marmelo
me), Wood A
ated all over
uit
entery, diarr
nnona squam
e
fa (local n
ated all over
uit & leaf
undice; laxa
ation and sed
adirachta in
d all over Ba
hole plant
nthelmintic,
ric, fever, sk
oe barbaden
i (local name
ated, mainly
af
rgative, anth
f aqueous fracti
os
Apple (engli
r Bangladesh
rhoea
mosa
name); Cust
r Bangladesh
ative and an
dative to the
ndica
angladesh
used in
kin diseases
nsis
e), Aloe (eng
y in Natore
helmintic, c
ion of Coccinia
ish name)
h
tard Apple
h
nthelmintic;
e heart
ulcers and
and in hair
glish name)
carminative
cordifolia leavees 3
In vitro pha
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Family:
Name: M
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
skin dise
Scientifi
Family:
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black-ber
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
asthma a
Scientifi
Family:
Name: A
(english n
Distribu
and Chitt
Plant pa
Medicin
antipyret
armacological in
c Name: La
Lythraceae
Mehedi (loca
tion: Cultiv
art used: bar
al uses: jau
ases
c Name: Syz
Myrtaceae
am, Kalojam
rry (english
tion: Plante
art used: wh
al uses: g
nd dysentery
c Name: He
Asclepiadac
Anantamul
name)
tion: Fores
tagong Hill T
art used: roo
al uses: bl
tic, antidiarrh
nvestigations of
wsonia inerm
al name), He
ated through
rk, leaf and s
undice, enla
zygium cumi
m (local nam
name)
d all over Ba
hole plant
good for so
y, cures dyse
emidesmus in
ceae
(local name
sts of Dhak
Tracts
ot
ood purifier
hoeal and pu
f aqueous fracti
mis
nna (english
hout the coun
seed
arged spleen
ini
me), Black Pl
angladesh
ore throat,
entery
ndicus
e), Indian S
ka-Tangail;
r, demulcen
urgative
ion of Coccinia
h name)
ntry
n, obstinate
lum, Indian
bronchitis,
Sarsaparilla
Chittagong
nt, diuretic,
cordifolia leavees 4
In vitro pha
Scientifi
Family:
Name:
(english n
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
enlargem
anthelmin
bowels; i
Scientifi
Family:
Name: D
(english n
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
stomachi
Scientifi
Family:
Name: P
Distribu
Banglade
Plant pa
Medicin
dyspepsi
armacological in
c Name: Tri
Fabaceae
Methi, Met
name)
tion: Cultiv
art used: wh
al uses: use
ment of the
ntic, carmin
increase app
c Name: Pu
Punicaeae
Dalim, Anar,
name)
tion: Plante
art used: fru
al uses: cu
ic; astringent
c Name: Ca
Caricaceae
Pepe (local n
tion: W
esh
art used: Fru
al uses: dig
a, intestinal
nvestigations of
igonella foen
thishak (loc
ated in the w
hole plant
eful in drops
e spleen a
native, emol
etite, and cu
unica granatu
, Bedana (lo
d throughou
it, seed and
ures dyspep
t; strengthen
arica papaya
ame), Papay
Widely cu
uit, leaf and
gestive and
irritation an
f aqueous fracti
num-graecum
cal name);
western distr
sy, chronic
and liver;
llient, astrin
ure bronchiti
um
ocal name); P
ut the country
bark
sia; cardiac
ns gums; use
a
ya (english n
ultivated
seed
anthelminti
d ringworm
ion of Coccinia
m
Fenugreek
ricts
cough, and
antipyretic,
gent to the
s and piles
Pomegrante
y
tonic and
ed in piles
name)
throughout
ic; used in
cordifolia leavees 5
In vitro pha
Scientifi
Family:
Name: A
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
Scientifi
Family:
Name:
name)
Distribu
Plant pa
Medicin
useful in
Scientifi
Family:
Name: T
Bay Leaf
Distribu
occationa
Plant pa
Medicin
diarrhoea
of the tee
armacological in
c Name: An
Bromeliacea
Anaras (local
tion: Cultiv
art used: lea
al uses: anth
c Name: Ad
Acanthaceae
Basak (loca
tion: Cultiv
art used: roo
al uses: exp
gonorrhoea
c Name: Cin
Lauraceae
Tejpata (loc
f (english na
tion: Cultiv
ally in other
art used: lea
al uses: stim
a, dyspepsia
eth, sore thro
nvestigations of
nanas sativus
ae
l name), Pine
ated all over
af
helmintic
dhatoda zeyla
e
al name), M
ated through
ot, bark and l
pectorant, an
and rheuma
nnamomum
cal name);
ame).
vated comm
places
af
mulant, carm
, anoerexia,
oat, piles, he
f aqueous fracti
s
eapple (engl
r Bangladesh
anica
Malabar Nu
hout Banglad
leaf
ntispasmodic
atism
tamala
Indian Cass
mercially in
minative; use
skin disease
art troubles
ion of Coccinia
lish name).
h
ut (english
desh.
c properties,
sia Lignea,
Sylhet and
ed in colic,
es, diseases
cordifolia leavees 6
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 7
1.3 Vernacular Names of Coccinia cordifolia
Table 1.2: Showing the vernacular names of Coccinia cordifolia (Ajmal and Pandey, 2006;
Kumar et al., 2013)
Bangla Telakucha, Vinbu, Kakjhinga, Kawoaluli, Kanduri, Telakochu shag (Chakma),
Muss si (Murang)
English Ivy-Gourd, Scarlet Gourd
Hindi Kundaru ki bel, Tindora, Kovaikkai
Urdu Kunduru
Sanskrit Tundika
Assam Kawabhaturi
Malayalam Tendli, Ghiloda, Kundri, Kowai, Kovai, Kovakkai
Danish Skariagenagurk
Chinese Hong Qua
Japanese Yasai, karasuuri
Spanish Pepino, cimaron
Others Kovakka, Tindla, Kundri, Bhimb, Gentleman's Toes, Kowai, Tindori, Dondakaya,
Ghiloda, Little Gourd, Thainli, Tendli, Thendli, Manoli, Thondai
1.4 Taxonomy of C. cordifolia
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Subkingdom: Tracheobionta
Superdivision: Spermatophyta
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Cucurbitales
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Genus: Coccinia
Species: Coccinia cordifolia
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 8
Botanical name: Coccinia cordifolia (Ayurveda Informatics, 2011; Pekamwar et al., 2013;
USDA, 2014)
1.5 Cucurbitaceae Family
Cucurbitaceae, the gourd family of flowering plants, belongs to the order Cucurbitales and
contains 118 genera and 845 species of food and ornamental plants. It includes the gourds,
melons, squashes, and pumpkins. Most species are prostrate or climb by tendrils. They are
annual or perennial herbs native to temperate and tropical areas. No member of the family
tolerates frost or cold soil. Most species are extremely sensitive to temperatures near freezing, a
factor that limits their geographic distribution and area of cultivation. The family includes such
economically important food plants as pumpkin, cucumber, gherkin, watermelon, muskmelon,
summer squash, winter squash, chayote, cassabanana, squash, and gourd. They are distributed in
tropical and subtropical regions (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2014).
Members of the family are fast-growing, with long-stalked leaves that alternate along the stem.
Most species have unisexual flowers, which are borne in the leaf axils and have five white or
yellow petals. At the side of the leafstalk in annual species there is a simple, often branched,
spirally coiled tendril. It is generally regarded by most botanists to be a modified shoot. There
are five sepals in each flower; male flowers have up to five anthers, often fused or joined in a
complex way, and female flowers usually have three carpels. The fruit in most species is a
fleshy, many-seeded berry with a tough rind, often attaining considerable size. The seeds are
flattened and sometimes have beautiful wings (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2014).
1.5.1 Species of Cucurbitaceae available in Bangladesh
Cucurbitaceae plants grow well in Bangladesh. They are found in plain areas as well as in hilly
areas like Sylhet and Chittagong. According to the recent reports of Bangladesh National
Harberium, the following Cucurbitaceae plants are available in Bangladesh as shown in table
below.
In vitro pha
Tab
Species:
Local na
Plant pa
Medicin
tapeworm
Species:
Local na
Plant pa
Medicin
against
diuretic
cures pai
cough, as
Species:
Local na
Plant pa
Medicin
renoprote
induced
ulcer and
armacological in
le 1.3: Some
Cucurbita m
ame: Mistiku
arts: Seeds
al or oth
ms
Lagenaria s
ame: Lau, K
arts: Fruits
al or other
doxorubici
activity, an
in, ulcers an
sthma and ot
Benincasa h
ame: Chalku
arts: Fruits, S
al or ot
ective activ
renal dama
d antifungal a
nvestigations of
e plants of C
maxima
umra
her uses:
siceraria
Kadu, Pani La
uses: Cardi
in induced
nti hyperlip
nd fever and
ther bronchi
hispida
umra
Seeds
ther uses
vity on isch
age, manag
activity
f aqueous fracti
Cucurbitacea
Treatment
au.
oprotective
d cardiotox
pidemic act
used for pe
al disorders
: Antidiar
hemia/reperf
gement of p
ion of Coccinia
ae family ava
t for
effect
xicity,
tivity,
ectoral
rrheal,
fusion
peptic
cordifolia leave
ailable in Ba
es
angladesh (UUddin, 2014)
9
).
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 10
Species: Cucumis sativus
Local name: Khira, Shasha
Plant parts: Fruits, Seeds
Medicinal or other uses: Removing constipation
and aid indigestion, has demulcent property,
cooling, tonic, diuretic and anthelmintic
Species: Cucumis melo
Local name: Kharmuj
Plant parts: Fruits, Seeds
Medicinal or other uses: Cooling, tonic,
laxative, aphrodisiac and diuretic; cures
biliousness, insanity, liver and kidney troubles,
bronchitis, burning of the throat, chronic fever,
painful discharges and suppression of urine
Species: Luffa aegyptiaca
Local name: Dhundul
Plant parts: Fruits
Medicinal or other uses: Expectorant, tonic,
laxative and diuretic; spleen diseases, leprosy,
piles, fever and bronchitis
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 11
Species: Momordica charantia
Local name: Korola
Plant parts: Fruits, Seeds
Medicinal or other uses: Anthelmintic,
antiemetic, carminative, purgative and for the
treatment of anemia, jaundice, malaria, cholera;
and also has antidiabetic, antioxidant property
Species: Trichosanthes cucumerina
Local name: Chichinga
Plant parts: Roots, Fruits, Seeds
Medicinal or other uses: Cure for bronchitis,
headache and boils, considered as cathartic, used
as an anthelmintic and stomach disorders.
1.6 Coccinia cordifolia
Coccinia cordifolia is one kind of species of Cucurbitaceae commonly known as telakucha, ivy
gourd, scarlet gourd, tindori, tindola, or kovai kai. It is native to north-central East Africa and is
also found wild in the Indo-Malayan region. Coccinia includes 29 additional species and they are
found only in tropical Africa (Singh, 1990).
In vitro pha
Coccinia
Australia
in these p
(Muniapp
of Southe
armacological in
a cordifolia w
a, Pacific Isl
parts of the w
pan et al., 2
east Asia (Sh
nvestigations of
Fig
was introduc
lands, the Ca
world becau
009). It is co
haheen et al.
f aqueous fracti
gure 1.1: Co
ced by huma
aribbean, an
use it is capab
onsidered as
., 2009).
ion of Coccinia
occinia cord
ans mostly as
nd southern U
ble of thrivin
s a valuable
cordifolia leave
difolia plant
s a food crop
United State
ng well in w
wild vegetab
es
p to several
es. It has be
warm, humid
able by the in
countries in
come natura
d, tropical re
ndigenous p
12
n Asia
alized
gions
eople
In vitro pha
Figure
L.S. fem
1.7 Syno
Coccinia
2011; Ku
1.8 Dist
C. cordif
Pakistan,
India in w
found in
2013).
armacological in
e 1.2: Coccin
male flower;
onyms of C
a indica; Ce
umar et al., 2
ribution of
folia is dist
, India and S
wild. It is m
areas like so
nvestigations of
nia cordifoli
E: Male flo
Coccinia co
ephalandra
2013; Pekam
f Coccinia c
tributed in A
Srilanka. It i
more common
outhern Asia
f aqueous fracti
ia, A: Twig w
ower with co
rdifolia
indica; Bryo
mwar et al., 2
cordifolia
Africa, tropi
is found in c
nly seen in a
an islands an
ion of Coccinia
with flower;
rolla split op
onia cordifo
2013).
ical Asia, a
climate that i
areas like Be
nd West Indi
cordifolia leave
; B: Male flo
pen; F: T.S.
olia; Coccin
and is comm
is warm and
engal, Bihar
ies and Haw
es
ower; C: Fem
Ovary (Sam
nia grandis
monly found
d humid. It i
and Orissa.
wain islands (
male flower;
mbamurty, 20
(Shivhare e
d in Bangla
is found in w
In generally
(Pekamwar e
13
D:
005)
et al.,
adesh,
whole
y it is
et al.,
In vitro pha
This plan
Hawaiian
Western
range of
Eastern P
througho
Figure
The urba
Azadirac
(Jaam/Ka
charantia
highest n
al., 2013
1.9 Hab
Coccinia
zones. It
adapted t
armacological in
nt has been
n and Mari
Australia, th
C. cordifoli
Papua, New
out the count
1.3: Region
freq
an and rural
chta indica
alojam tree)
a (Korola tr
number of ci
).
bitant of Co
a cordifolia
grows as a v
to tropical a
nvestigations of
n spread in
iana Islands
he northern t
a also found
w Guinea an
try in fallow
nal distributi
uently ment
l distribution
(Neem tree
, Terminalia
ree) and Swi
itations in bo
occinia cord
is a warm c
vine and can
and subtropi
f aqueous fracti
America an
s of the Pa
territory and
d in Philippin
nd Northern
lands and on
on of C. cor
ioned plants
n of C. cord
e), Trigonell
a chebula (H
ietenia mah
oth urban an
difolia
climate; shor
n be trellised
cal areas. C
ion of Coccinia
nd Pacific, b
acific. Smal
d the northern
nes, China,
n Territories
n fences (Pe
rdifolia (Syn
s in Banglade
difolia is com
la foenum-g
Haritaki tree)
agoni. It ha
nd rural regi
rt-lived pere
d when culti
C. cordifolia
cordifolia leave
but it has b
l population
n coastal par
Indonesia, M
(Australia)
ekamwar et a
nonym: Cocc
esh (Ocvirk
mpared with
graecum (M
), Ficus rac
as been foun
ions compar
ennial plant
ivated in a h
is growing
es
become inva
ns are scatt
rts of Queen
Malaysia, Th
. In Bangla
al., 2013; M
cinia indica)
et al., 2013)
h other com
Methi tree), S
cemosa (Dum
nd that C. c
red to other
that thrives
home vegetab
wild throug
asive only in
tered throug
nsland. The n
hailand, Viet
adesh it is f
BG, 2008).
) and other m
)
mmon plants
Syzygium cu
mur), Momo
cardifolia ha
plants (Ocv
s in rainy, h
ble garden. I
ghout Bangla
14
n the
ghout
native
tnam,
found
most
like,
umini
rdica
as the
irk et
humid
It has
adesh
In vitro pha
and is al
sheltered
trees. Th
up electri
1.10 Mo
C. cordif
1.10.1 S
It has ste
at the no
become s
1.10.2 L
Leaves h
smell. Th
armacological in
so cultivated
d position an
hese plants, w
icity poles, o
orphology o
folia is a dioe
Stem of C. c
ems and coil
odes. Initiall
swollen and
Leaf of C. c
have bright g
hey are trian
nvestigations of
d in various
nd a sandy s
when cultiva
over nearby
of Plant
ecious, peren
Figure 1.4
cordifolia
led tendrils.
ly, younger
semi-succul
ordifolia
green upper s
gular or pen
f aqueous fracti
parts of Ba
soil. It can fo
ated in garde
trees and int
nnial and he
4: C. cordifo
When stems
stems are
lent in nature
surface and p
ntagonal in sh
ion of Coccinia
angladesh. It
form dense m
ens, will qui
to suburban
erbaceous cli
folia leaves, f
s of C. cordi
slender, gre
e (Kumar et
pale-green u
hape (Kuma
cordifolia leave
t is an outdo
mats that rea
ickly spread
bush land (P
imber (Kum
fruits and flo
ifolia touch
een, and sm
al., 2013).
underneath, w
ar et al., 2013
es
oor plant bu
adily cover
d along fence
Pekamwar et
mar et al., 201
owers.
soil, they st
mooth but as
with charact
3).
ut prefers a s
shrubs and
es and roads
t al., 2013).
13).
trike roots re
s they grow
teristic odou
15
sunny
small
sides,
eadily
they
ur and
In vitro pha
1.10.3 F
The flow
borne sin
long) tha
tips. The
white, 3
(present a
armacological in
Flower of C
wers are acti
ngly in the le
at are joined
calyx has fi
4.5cm long
as staminode
nvestigations of
Fi
C. cordifolia
inomorphic
eaf forks on
together at t
five subulate
g, deeply d
es in female
Fi
f aqueous fracti
igure 1.5: L
a
and nearly a
stalks 1-5cm
the base and
, recurved lo
divided into
flowers). Th
igure 1.6: F
ion of Coccinia
Leaves of C.
always unise
m long. The
d usually hav
obes, each 2
five ovate
he ovary is i
lower of C.
cordifolia leave
cordifolia
exual. These
ey have five
ve five sprea
25mm long
lobes. Each
inferior (Kum
cordifolia
es
e white, tub
small narrow
ading petal lo
. The corolla
h flower ha
mar et al., 20
bular, flower
w sepals (6-
obes with po
a is campanu
as three sta
013).
16
rs are
-8mm
ointed
ulate,
amens
In vitro pha
1.10.4 F
The ivy
raw fruit
fruit (2.5
several p
Figure 1
1.10.5 S
Seeds are
grey (Shi
armacological in
Fruit of C. c
gourd fruit b
is green in c
5-6cm long a
pale, flattened
1.7: Fruits of
Seed of C. c
e obovoid an
ivhare et al.,
nvestigations of
cordifolia
belongs to th
color resemb
and up to 3
d seeds (Kum
f C. cordifol
cordifolia
nd rounded
, 2011).
F
f aqueous fracti
he berry typ
bles a small
.5cm wide)
mar et al., 20
lia-(a) unripe
at the apex,
Figure 1.8: S
ion of Coccinia
pe: oval and
dark green c
turn bright
013).
e fruit; (b) ri
, slightly pap
Seeds of C. c
cordifolia leave
hairless wit
cucumber wi
scarlet red
ipe fruit; (c)
pillose, muc
cordifolia
es
th thick and
ith paler strip
as they mat
cross-sectio
ch compress
d sticky skin
pes. These f
ture and con
on of unripe
ed and yello
17
n. The
fleshy
ntains
fruit.
owish
In vitro pha
1.10.6 R
The fresh
attached
shows ci
and thoro
2011).
1.11 Rep
This spec
from Au
self-fertil
create fru
fragment
common
dormancy
quickly,
1.12 Veg
Ivy gour
Coccinia
plant is M
The vari
armacological in
Root of C. c
h root is thic
to it. Roots
ircular outlin
ough perme
production
cies reprodu
gust to Sept
le. The plan
uit. Seeds m
ts can be sp
ly occurs by
y and usual
capable of g
getative pr
rd will grow
a cordifolia n
May-June an
iety is prop
nvestigations of
cordifolia
ck, tuberous,
s are flexible
ne and is ch
eation of par
F
n and dispe
uces by seed
tember. The
nts are dioec
may be dispe
read by floo
y humans w
ly germinate
growing 4 inc
ropagation
w in slightly
needs full su
nd Septemb
pagated thro
f aqueous fracti
, long taperi
e, soft and b
haracteristic
renchyma w
Figure 1.9: R
ersal of Coc
and also ve
species is d
cious, which
ersed by bir
ods or in dis
hen we deli
e within 24
ches per day
of Coccini
y sandy loa
un and consi
ber-October.
ugh vegetat
ion of Coccinia
ing, more or
break with a
of storage ty
with vascular
Roots of C. c
ccinia cord
egetatively v
dioecious an
h means the
rds and othe
scarded gard
iberately cul
4 weeks at 2
y (Bird, 1990
ia cordifolia
am soils wit
stent moistu
The plants
tion. Plantin
cordifolia leave
r less tortuou
a fibrous fra
ype. Parench
r elements i
cordifolia
difolia
via stem frag
nd pollinated
ey need two
er animals t
den waste. L
ltivate these
20C. Ivy g
0).
a
th good dra
ure. So, the s
should be i
ng the three
es
us with a few
acture. A tra
hyma is full
is observed
gments. C. c
d by insects.
o vines of d
that eat the
Long distanc
plants. Seed
gourd takes h
ainage. For
suitable plan
irrigated dur
e-noded cutt
w fibrous ro
ansaction of
l of starch g
(Shivhare e
cordifolia flo
. The plant i
different sex
fruit, while
ce dispersal
ds do not ex
hold and sp
the best har
nting time fo
ring hot wea
tings is the
18
otlets
f root
grains
et al.,
owers
is not
xes to
stem
most
xhibit
reads
rvest,
or this
ather.
e best
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 19
method. The selected cuttings should be planted in pits of 60cm diameter dug at a spacing of 2m
by 2m. Two or three cuttings may be planted in each pit. The most important thing is that care
should be taken to keep the root zone sufficiently moist. It is observed that manure along with
70g nitrogen and 25g each of phosphorus and potash per pit would provide the best result. The
plants should be allowed to climb over pandal or trellises (Gautam et al., 2014).
1.13 Nutritional value of Coccinia cordifolia
The nutritional value per 100gm of edible portion of Coccinia cordifolia is shown in table below.
Table 1.4: Nutritional value of per 100gm of edible portion of C. cordifolia (Gautam et al.,
2014)
Components Amount
Energy 21 (KCal)
Protein 1.4 (g)
Carbohydrate 3.4 (g)
Fat 0.2 (g)
Calcium 25 (mg)
Iron 0.9 (mg)
1.14 Local uses of C. cordifolia in Bangladesh
Table 1.5: Use of C. cordifolia in different parts of Bangladesh (Rahmatullah, 2010)
Local
Name Tribe Village District
Part(s)
Used Ailment
Nichu-
bang
Marma The fruit is given for respiratory
problems and lung disorders.
Telakucha Khasia Juice and paste of the leaves to be
taken with honey for diabetes.
Telakucha Dashuria
village
Pabna Whole
plant
Diabetes, carminative, hypertension,
fever.
Telakucha Boro bon
gram
Rajshahi Leaf,
stem
For diarrhea, juice of young leaves is
(1/32kg) is taken with a little sugar
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 20
Local
Name Tribe Village District
Part(s)
Used Ailment
village every morning till cure.
For blood dysentery, 1/32kg of
leaves is taken and juice squeezed
out. The juice is heated in an iron pot
and mixed with 1/64kg of sugar. To
be taken every morning on an empty
stomach.
For dizziness from sunstroke, juice
from leaves mixed with a little water
is applied to forehead and top of
head.
Telakucha Rajshahi Leaf The fried leaves are taken for
diabetes. Paste of leaves is applied to
hands or head if they feel hot.
Telakucha Muslim Rajshahi Root In case of persistent bleeding
following menstruation, the roots are
cut into small pieces and taken with
molasses sherbet.
Telakucha Kodra
village
Jessore Leaf For dysentery, leaf juice is taken
with a little salt for a week.
Telakucha Bajua
danga
village
Jessore Root For leucorrhea and menstruation
problems, pills are made from a
combination of root of Coccinia
cordifolia, root bark of Abroma
augusta, root of Achyranthes aspera,
whole plant of Ipomoea paniculata
along with honey and opium. Three
tablets are to be taken in the morning
on an empty stomach.
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 21
Local
Name Tribe Village District
Part(s)
Used Ailment
Telakucha Natore Leaf For cough relief and anti-pyretic
effect, 1 glass of leaf juice is taken
with sugar thrice daily.
Telakucha Narshingdi Juice from the leaves is used in
diabetes.
Telakachu Garo Sherpur For diabetes, mix enough water with
leaf and stem to make 125ml of
juice. Take two times daily (morning
before meal, and night after meal).
Kawla
kochu
pata
Noakhali Leaves The leaves are washed and crushed
to make a semi-solid paste. Pills
made from the paste are dried and
given to patients for controlling
diabetes mellitus.
Note: the housewives claim that this
preparation can cure diabetes
mellitus.
1.15 Toxicology of C. cordifolia
No toxic effect was seen on human body with C. cordifolia consumption. A study was planned to
assess the acute toxicity of Coccinia indica (Synonym: Coccinia cordifolia, Coccinia grandis)
leaves. Rats were orally administrated single dose of 100, 500 and 1000mg/kg of ethanolic
extract of Coccinia indica. Mortality, signs of toxicity, body weight, food consumption and gross
findings were observed for 14 days post treatment of Coccinia indica extract. In addition, no
significant differences were noticed in the body and organ weights between the control and
treated groups. These results state that ethanol extract of Coccinia indica is toxicologically safe
by oral administration (Baghe et al., 2011).
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves
Chapter Two LITERATURE REVIEW
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 22
2.1 Phytochemical constituents
Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity of Coccinia cordifolia L. plant
The medicinal plant, Coccinia cordifolia L. was analyzed in a research for its chemical
composition. Chemical analysis showed that the plant is rich in nutrients, especially antioxidant
compounds such as total phenol, vitamin C and -carotene. Phytochemical screening showed that the methanolic extract contains the bioactive constituents such as tannins, saponins, phenols,
flavonoids and terpenoids (Khatun et al., 2012).
Studies on phytochemical constituents, quantification of total phenol, alkaloid content and
In-vitro anti-oxidant activity of Coccinia cordifolia
In a study extracted dried plant of Coccinia cordifolia in hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol (70% v/v)
and methanol was collected and these extracts were checked for their phytochemical
constituents. The whole plant of Coccinia cordifolia revealed the presence of steroids,
triterpenoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, phenols and carbohydrates but
extract of Coccinia cordifolia give the negative results for quinines and oils. The methanolic
extract has more phenolic content than other extracts and the ethanol (70% v/v) extract has more
alkaloid content than other extracts (Ganga et al., 2011).
2.2 Pharmacological properties
2.2.1 Anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic activity
2.2.1.1 In vivo study on human model
Blood Sugar Lowering Effect of Coccinia grandis (L.) J. Voigt: Path for a New Drug for
Diabetes Mellitus
Double-blind phase I clinical trial was conducted at the general hospital and a private hospital in
Matara in August 2009. Sixty-one healthy volunteers were given a meal for dinner containing
20g of leaves of Coccinia grandis which was mixed with a measured amount of scraped coconut
and table salt for breakfast, and other 61 were given the placebo meal for dinner which also
contained scraped coconut and salt. They maintained a 10-hour fasting period. Glucose tolerance
test was performed blindly for the two groups. Results showed that overall blood sugar levels of
the experimental group were also significantly lower than those of the control group (F(1,117)
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 23
5.56, P < 0.05). Increase in the blood sugar levels from fasting to one hour (F(1,117) 6.77, P <
0.05) and two hours (F(1,117) 5.28, P < 0.05) postprandially was statistically significant for
participants who were in the control group than those of in the experimental group. The mean
difference of postprandial blood sugar levels (mg/dL) after one hour (20.2, 95% confidence
interval, 4.81 to 35.5) and two hours (11.46, 95% confidence interval; 1.03 to 21.9) was
statistically significant between the two groups. This proved that Coccinia grandis has a blood
sugar lowering effect (Munasinghe et al., 2011).
Effect of Supplementation of Coccinia cordifolia Extract on Newly Detected Diabetic
Patients
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Coccinia cordifolia on blood glucose levels of
incident type 2 diabetic patients requiring only dietary or lifestyle modifications. A double blind,
placebo control, randomized study trial was carried out. Sixty incident type 2 diabetics (aged 35
60 years) were recruited. The subjects were randomly assigned into the placebo or experimental
group and were provided with 1g of an alcoholic extract of the herb for 90 days. Anthropometric,
biochemical, dietary and physical activity assessment were carried out at baseline and were
repeated at day 45 and day 90 of the study. All the subjects were provided with standard dietary
and physical activity advice for the control of their blood sugars. Results showed a significant
decrease in the fasting, post prandial blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin of the
experimental group when compared to the placebo group. The fasting and post prandial blood
glucose levels of the experimental group at day 90 significantly decreased by 16% and 18%
respectively. This study suggests that Coccinia cordifolia extract has a potential hypoglycemic
action in patients with mild diabetes (Kuriyan et al., 2008).
Coccinia indica in the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus
A double blind control trial was conducted with preparation from the leaves of the plant,
Coccinia indica, on uncontrolled, maturity onset diabetics. The trial lasted for six weeks for an
individual patient. Out of the 16 patients who received the experimental preparations 10 showed
marked improvements in their glucose tolerance while none out of the 16 patients in the dummy
group showed such a marked improvement. This difference is highly significant (kappa 2 with
Yates' correction = 11.7, P < 0.001) (Khan et al., 1979).
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 24
2.2.1.2 In vivo study on animal model
Comparative efficacy of Telakucha (Coccinia indica) leaves and Amaryl(R) Tablet
(Glimepiride) in induced diabetes mellitus in rat
Thirty healthy rats of both sexes weighing between 150 to 200gm were selected from among the
offspring and randomly divided into six equal groups. Rats of Group A and Group B were kept
as non-hypoglycemic control and hypoglycemic control, respectively. After acclimatization
hyperglycemia was induced in five groups of rats (B, C, D, E and F) by administering
streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally at a dose of 55mg/kg body weight. After fifteen days of
STZ injection, four groups of rats (C, D, E and F) were administered with Telakucha (Coccinia
indica) and Amaryl(R) (Glimepiride) as per schedule dose and all the control and treated rats were
closely observed during 14 days of treatment. The oral administration over 14 days of Telakucha
(Coccinia indica) leaves extract significantly lowered blood glucose level but was not as potent
as patent drug Amaryl(R) (Glimepiride). The herbal preparation also increased body weight but
not to the extent caused by the patent drug Amaryl(R). The Telakucha leaves at 750mg/kg body
weight significantly reduced (30.73%) the blood glucose level from 31.240.36mmol/L to
21.640.17mmol/L and significantly increased (5.45%) the body weight from 181.9621.10g to
191.8712.42g (Amanullah et al., 2008).
Effect of Ethanol Extract of Coccinia grandis Lin leaf on Glucose and Cholesterol Lowering
Activity
Glucose and cholesterol lowering effect of the ethanol extract of C. grandis leaf was evaluated
using the alloxan-induced diabetic rat and compared the activity with diabetic control and
antidiabetic drug (Glibenclamide). Ethanol extract (25mg/kg) of C. grandis and Glibenclamide
were administered to normal and experimental diabetic rats for the duration of 10 days. In the
alloxan-induced diabetic rat model, C. grandis (25mg/kg) significantly (p
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 25
Protective effect of Coccinia indica on changes in the fatty acid composition in
streptozotocin induced diabetic rats
The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Coccinia indica on blood glucose,
plasma insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, free fatty acids and phospholipids and fatty acid
composition of total lipids in liver, kidney and brain of normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic
rats. Oral administration of the ethanolic extract of Coccinia indica leaves (200mg/kg body
weight, CLEt) for 45 days to diabetic rats decreased the concentrations of blood glucose whereas
plasma insulin was elevated. These results suggest that CLEt exhibits hypoglycaemic effect in
STZ induced diabetic rats. The effect of CLEt at 200mg/kg body weight was better than that of
glibenclamide. The results indicate that the administration of CLEt to diabetic animals
normalizes blood glucose and causes marked improvement of altered carbohydrate metabolic
enzymes during diabetes (Pari and Venkateswaran, 2003).
2.2.2 Hypolipidemic and antidyslipidemic activity
Protective effect of Coccinia indica on changes in the fatty acid composition in
streptozotocin induced diabetic rats
The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Coccinia indica on cholesterol,
triglycerides, free fatty acids and phospholipids and fatty acid composition of total lipids in liver,
kidney and brain of normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. Oral administration of the
ethanolic extract of Coccinia indica leaves (200 mg/kg body weight, CLEt) for 45 days to
diabetic rats decreased the concentrations of lipids and fatty acids, viz., palmitic, stearic, and
oleic acid whereas linolenic and arachidonic acid were elevated. These results suggest that CLEt
exhibits hypolipidaemic effects in STZ induced diabetic rats. It also prevents the fatty acid
changes produced during diabetes. The effect of CLEt at 200 mg/kg body weight was better than
that of glibenclamide (Pari and Venkateswaran, 2003).
Antidyslipidemic activity of polyprenol from Coccinia grandis in high-fat diet-fed hamster
model
Ethanolic extract was fractionated into chloroform, n-butanol and water-soluble fractions and
were evaluated. Activity was proved to be concentrated in chloroform-soluble fraction.
Chloroform-soluble fraction containing active component was subjected to repeated column
chromatography, furnished a polyprenol characterized as C(60)-polyprenol(1) isolated for the
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 26
first time from this plant. It significantly decreased serum TG by 42%, total cholesterol (TC)
25% and glycerol (Gly) 12%, accompanied HDL-C/TC ratio 26% in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed
dyslipidemic hamsters at the dose of 50mg/kg body weight. Results are comparable to standard
drug, fenofibrate at the dose of 108mg/kg. So the compound polyprenol(1) isolated from leaves
of C. grandis possess marked antidyslipidemic activity (Singh et al., 2007).
Ameliorative potential of Coccinia grandis extract on serum and liver marker enzymes and
lipid profile in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the potential of Coccinia grandis extract on serum
and liver marker enzymes (ALP, AST, ALT and LDH) and lipid profile (total cholesterol,
phospholipids, triglycerides and free fatty acids in serum and liver) in streptozotocin induced
diabetic animals. The experimental animals were treated with methanolic extract of Coccinia
grandis and the levels of marker enzymes and lipid profile were estimated. The ALP, AST, ALT
and LDH levels were increased in diabetic rats and restored to near normal levels after
administration of plant extract. The lipid profile increased in diabetic group and after the
treatment with the plant extract the levels were reverted to near normal. Thus the methanolic
extract of Coccinia grandis has a potent ability to restore the marker enzymes and the lipid
profile was reverted to near normal levels (Krishnakumari et al., 2011).
Effect of Ethanol Extract of Coccinia grandis Lin leaf on Glucose and Cholesterol Lowering
Activity
Glucose and cholesterol lowering effect of the ethanol extract of C. grandis leaf was evaluated
using the alloxan-induced diabetic rat and compared the activity with diabetic control and
antidiabetic drug (Glibenclamide). Ethanol extract (25mg/kg) of C. grandis and Glibenclamide
were administered to normal and experimental diabetic rats for the duration of 10 days. C.
grandis extract (25mg/kg) produced significant (p
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 27
2.2.3 Anti-inflammatory activity
Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity of aqueous extract of fresh leaves of
Coccinia indica
This study was aimed to evaluate both post- and pre-treatment anti-inflammatory activities of the
aqueous extract of fresh leaves of Coccinia indica in rats using the carrageenan-induced paw
oedema method at various dose levels. Ceiling effect of the extract was observed at 50mg/kg in
pre-treatment carrageenan test. In post-treatment studies, a dose-dependent anti-inflammatory
effect was observed in the dose range of 25-300mg/kg. The effect was equivalent to diclofenac
(20mg/kg) at 50mg/kg but it was significantly pronounced at higher doses. Effectiveness of
extract in the early phase of inflammation suggests the inhibition of histamine and serotonin
release. In conclusion, this study has established the anti-inflammatory activity of C. indica and,
thus, justifies the ethnic uses of the plant (Niazi et al., 2009).
Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory activity of Coccinia indica leaves extracts
The effects of Coccinia indica leaves extracts on different phases of acute inflammation were
examined. Investigations were performed using different phlogistic agents-induced paw edema
viz.Carrageenan-induced paw oedema and Dextran- induced paw oedema in rats. Various
extracts (ethanol and aqueous) of Coccinia indica leaves extracts at a dose of 250mg/kg and
500mg/kg orally were tested. Diclofenac sodium at the dose of 10mg/kg was used as standard.
Both the extracts showed significant activity (*p
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 28
2.2.4 Analgesic and antipyretic activity
Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity of aqueous extract of fresh leaves of
Coccinia indica
Analgesic and antipyretic properties were evaluated using tail flick model and yeast-induced
hyperpyrexia, respectively. The extract produced marked analgesic activity comparable to
morphine at 300mg/kg, which suggests the involvement of central mechanisms. A significant
reduction in hyperpyrexia in rats was also produced by all doses of extract with maximum effect
at 300mg/kg comparable to paracetamol. In conclusion, this study has established the analgesic
and antipyretic activity of C. indica (Niazi et al., 2009).
2.2.5 Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity
Antimicrobial activity of the fruit extracts of Coccinia indica
The bioactive compounds of fruits of Coccinia indica were investigated for antibacterial activity
against some pathogenic bacteria. The aqueous extracts did not show much significant activity,
while the organic extracts (petroleum ether and methanol) showed the highest activity against the
test bacteria. The activity was more pronounced on gram-positive organisms with
Staphylococcus aureus being more susceptible and Salmonella paratyphi A being more resistant
(Shaheen et al., 2009).
Antibacterial Activity of the Leaves of Coccinia indica (W. and A) Wof India
The aim of the present research was focused on investigating the antibacterial properties of
Coccinia indica (W.A.) via in vitro approach. The aqueous and organic solvent (Petroleum ether,
chloroform and ethanol) extracts from the leaves of Coccinia indica (Cucurbitaceae) were tested
against Enterobacter aerogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus
subtilis and Salmonella typhimurium by agar well diffusion method and broth dilution method.
Results showed promising antibacterial activity against the bacteria tested. Among these, ethanol
and aqueous extracts were found to have a more potent inhibitory effect comparing with the
other extracts. This proves that there is potentiality in the plant extracts for the treatment of
various skin and gastrointestinal infections in humans (Hussain et al., 2010).
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 29
Antibacterial, cytotoxic and antioxidant activity of chloroform, n-hexane and ethyl acetate
extract of plant Coccinia cordifolia
Disc diffusion technique was used for in vitro antibacterial screening against gram positive and
gram negative human pathogenic bacteria. Here kanamycin disc (30g/disc) was used as
standard. The chloroform extract of Coccinia cordifolia showed good antibacterial activity with
the average zone of inhibition 9-12mm. The n-hexane and ethyl acetate extract showed average
zone of inhibition 7-10mm and 7-11mm respectively (Bulbul et al., 2011).
Antibacterial activity of Coccinia grandis leaf extract on selective bacterial strains
To assess the antibacterial activities of Coccinia grandis leaf extract on selective bacterial strains
under in-vitro conditions. The antibacterial activity was tested against five bacterial strains by
agar well diffusion method. The crude extract showed a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity
by inhibiting both the gram positive and gram negative groups. The antibacterial activity of C.
grandis leaf extract using solvents such as acetone, ethanol, methanol, aqueous and hexane was
evaluated against five bacterial sp. Ethanol leaf extract of C. grandis showed high antibacterial
activity against S. aureus, B. cereus, E coli, K pneumoniae and S. pyogens. Minimal inhibitory
concentration of the leaf extract against each test organism was also studied by observing their
growth on Mueller Hinton Agar containing the extract at various incremental levels, equivalent
to 31.25g/ml to 1000g/ml of the extract. The highest activity was observed in ethanol extracts against S. aureus, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae with an inhibitory concentration below 31.5g/ml. The significance of the study was conducted to investigate the in vitro antibacterial activity of
folklore medicinal plant and to evaluate scientific base of their applications (Sivaraj et al., 2011).
Antimicrobial activity of protease inhibitor isolated from leaves of Coccinia grandis (L.)
Voigt.
A 14.3kDa protease inhibitor PI exhibited marked growth inhibitory effects on colon cell lines in
a dose-dependent manner. PI was thermostable and showed antimicrobial activity without
hemolytic activity. PI strongly inhibited pathogenic microbial strains, including Staphylococcus
aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Eschershia coli, Bacillus subtilis and
pathogenic fungus Candida albicans, Mucor indicus, Penicillium notatum, Aspergillus flavus
and Cryptococcus neoformans. Examination by bright field microscopy showed inhibition of
mycelial growth and sporulation. Morphologically, PI treated fungus showed a significant
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 30
shrinkage of hyphal tips. Reduced PI completely lost its activity indicating that disulfide bridge
is essential for its protease inhibitory and antifungal activity. Results reported in this study
suggested that PI may be an excellent candidate for development of novel oral or other anti-
infective agents (Satheesh and Murugan, 2011).
Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity of Coccinia cordifolia L. plant
The antimicrobial activities of the methanol, water, ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of Coccinia
cordifolia L. plant were evaluated against some Gram positive bacteria (Sarcina lutea, Bacillus
subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus), Gram negative bacteria (Salmonella typhi, Shigella
dysenteriae and Escherichia coli) and fungi (Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and
Penicillium notatum). In the methanolic extract of the plant, promising antimicrobial potential
was observed against the tested microorganism. Methanolic extract showed highest activity
against Shigella dysenteriae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans
compared to the other extracts. Water extract showed less antimicrobial activity as compared to
other extractants (Khatun et al., 2012).
2.2.6 Anthelmintic Activity
Evaluation of Anthelmintic Activity of Coccinia indica (fruits)
The present study was designed to explore the anthelmintic activity of different extracts of plant
Coccinia indica (fruits) using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate methanol and water as solvents.
Various concentrations (25 and 50mg/ml) of all the extracts were tested, which involved
determination of time of paralysis and time of death of the worms. It was compared with
Albendazole as standard reference and normal saline as control. The study indicated the potential
usefulness of Coccinia indica against earthworm infections (Shivhare et al., 2011).
2.2.7 Cytotoxic, antitumer and pesticidal activity
Antibacterial, cytotoxic and antioxidant activity of chloroform, n-hexane and ethyl acetate
extract of plant Coccinia cordifolia
The main aim of this study was to find out the antibacterial, cytotoxic and antioxidant activity of
chloroform, n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of Coccinia cordifolia (Family: Cucurbitaceae).
The Brine shrimp lethality bioassay method was used to determine the cytotoxic activity and
vincristine sulphate was used as positive control. The LC50 values of standard vincristine
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 31
sulphate, chloroform, n-hexane and ethyl acetate extract were 7.55g/ml, 23.96g/ml, 14.12g/ml & 15.49g/ml respectively which indicate the plants extracts compounds are promisingly cytotoxic and they might have antitumer and pesticidal activity. Among the extracts
the chloroform extract showed the highest cytotoxic activity with LC50 23.96g/ml (Bulbul et al., 2011).
2.2.8 Antioxidant activity
Effect of Coccinia indica leaf extract on plasma antioxidants in streptozotocin- induced
experimental diabetes in rats
The present study was carried out to investigate the antioxidant effect of an ethanolic extract of
Coccinia indica leaves. Oral administration of Coccinia indica leaf extract (CLEt) (200mg/kg
body weight) for 45days resulted in a significant reduction in plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive
substances, hydroperoxides, vitamin E and ceruloplasmin. The extract also caused a significant
increase in plasma vitamin C and reduced glutathione, which clearly shows the antioxidant
property of CLEt (Venkateswaran and Pari, 2003).
Antibacterial, cytotoxic and antioxidant activity of chloroform, n-hexane and ethyl acetate
extract of plant Coccinia cordifolia
Antioxidant activity test of the crude extracts were assessed by means of DPPH free radical
scavenging method where ascorbic acid was used as standard with IC50 43.22 g/ml. The ethyl acetate fraction of Coccinia cordifolia showed strongest antioxidant activity with IC50 value of
50.98g/ml (Bulbul et al., 2011).
Studies on phyto chemical constituents, quantification of total phenol, alkaloid content and
In-vitro anti-oxidant activity of Coccinia cordifolia
In the present study dried plant of Coccinia cordifolia was extracted in hexane, ethyl acetate,
ethanol (70%v/v) and methanol. The selected plant extracts were produced concentration
dependent percentage inhibition of superoxide radical and produced maximum activity at a
concentration of 160g and there after the percentage inhibition were raised gradually to its maximum level with higher concentrations. Among the four types of C. cordifolia extracts, the
methanolic extract showed better activity than remaining extracts at 160g concentrations (Ganga et al., 2011).
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 32
2.2.9 Chemoprotective activity
Chemoprotective potential of Coccinia indica against cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity
The present study was aimed to investigate the chemoprotective potential of Coccinia indica
against CP-induced oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. Rodents were orally pre-
treated with Coccinia indica extract (200, 400, and 600mg/kg) for five consecutive days. On 5th
day, these animals were injected with CP (5mg/kg i.p) and sacrificed after 24hrs for the
evaluation of oxidative stress, hepatotoxicity, micronucleus formation, and chromosomal
aberrations. It was found that the CP significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and
decreased catalase and glutathione (GSH) levels in brain, and it was significantly reversed by
Coccinia indica extract (400 and 600mg/kg). Further, pre-treatment with Coccinia indica extract
(200, 400, 600mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently reduced micronuclei formation and
incidence of aberrant cells. It was also found that the CP-induced increase in the serum
biomarker enzymes like alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alkaline aminotransferase (ALT), and
aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were significantly reduced by Coccinia indica extract. Thus,
the results indicate the protective effect of Coccinia indica extract against CP-induced oxidative
stress, genotoxicity, as well as hepatotoxicity (Nitharwal et al., 2013).
2.2.10 Antiulcer and cytoprotective activity
Antiulcerogenic and antioxidant effects of Coccinia grandis (Linn.) Voigt leaves on aspirin-
induced gastric ulcer in rats
The effect of Coccinia grandis (Linn.)Voigt leaves powder, its methanol and aqueous extracts
were investigated on aspirin-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. The leaf powder showed a
significant dose related decrease in ulcer index, with significant increase in mucus secretion and
decrease in level of Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity.
Methanol extract at an equivalent dose to that of the powder also showed a significant decrease
in ulcer index with significant changes in mucus secretion, LPO and SOD. However, aqueous
extract was found to be non-significant in reducing ulcer index. The group, receiving standard
drug Famotidine, showed no effect on the mucus secretion induced in this experimental model.
These observations confirm the antiulcerogenic potential of this plant, probably due to increased
mucus secretion and antioxidant property (Mazumder et al., 2007).
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 33
Anti-ulcer activity of ethanolic, aqueous and total aqueous extracts of Coccinia grandis
Linn. Voigt in pyloric ligature induced ulcers in albino rats
The present study was designed to investigate the antiulcer potential of ethanolic, aqueous and
total aqueous extracts of Coccinia grandis Linn. Ulcer was induced by pylorus ligature in Wistar
albino rats. Drugs were administered in two different dose levels (200mg/Kgbwt,
400mg/Kgbwt). Though all three extracts of Coccinia grandis, dose dependently reduced, the
total acidity, ulcer index, and increased pH of gastric juice, ethanol extracts exhibited markedly
significant results. However, ethanol extract has shown (78.57%) a highly significant ulcer
curative potential and decreased ulcer formation also. A preliminary phytochemical analysis
revealed the presence of different phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, carbohydrate, glycosides,
phyto sterol, saponins, volatile oil, tannins etc. which may impart their anti-ulcer activity by
acting as anti-secretory and cytoprotective agents. The present result suggests that both antisecretory and cytoprotective mechanisms of different extracts of Coccinia grandis exerted
protective effect (Santharam et al., 2013).
2.2.11 Anti-hepatotoxic activity
Antihepatotoxic activity of Coccinia indica
Aqueous, light petroleum, chloroform, alcohol, benzene and acetone extracts of the leaves of
Coccinia indica (Family: Cucurbitaceae) were screened for antihepatotoxic activity.The extracts
were given after the liver was damaged with CCl4. Liver function was assessed based on liver to
body weight ratio, pentobarbitone sleep time, serum levels of transaminase (SGPT, SGOT),
alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin. Alcohol and light petroleum extracts were found to
have good anti-hepatotoxic activity (Gopalakrishnan et al., 2001).
Protective effect of Coccinia indica leaf extract against alcohol combined with carbon
tetrachloride and paracetamol induced liver damagein rats
The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of leaf extract of Coccinia indica against
Alcohol combines with CCl4 and Paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity. The effects of oral
treatment with Coccinia indica (CI) leaf extracts (100mg/kg and 200mg/kg for 7 days) were
studied on hepatic damage induced by alcohol (40% alcohol 2.0ml/100g, p.o. for 21 days) and
CCl4 (0.1ml/kg, s.c. on 20th day) and also with paracetamol (750mg/kg ip.) in rats. Biochemical
parameters in serum like glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), total billirubin (TB),
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 34
alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total proteins (TP) were estimated to assess the liver function.
Alcohol CCl4 and paracetamol treatment produced an increase in SGOT, ALP, Total billirubin
and decrease in total proteins indicating the liver damage. These effects were progressively
reduced (SGOT, ALP and Total billirubin) and increased (Total proteins) by treatment doses of
(100mg/kg and 200mg/kg) CI leaf extracts. These biochemical observations were supplemented
by histopathological examination of liver sections. CI leaf extract protected the liver from
alcohol-CCl4 and paracetamol induced hepatic damage (Maheswari et al., 2011).
Evaluation of hepatoprotective activity of ethanol extract of Coccinia grandis (L.)
Voigt.leaves on experimental rats by acute and chronic models
The aim of this work was to study the hepatoprotective effect of crude ethanolic extract from the
leaves of C. grandis against liver damage induced by Paracetamol and CCl4 in rats.
Administration of paracetamol (750mg/kg/day) and CCl4 (3ml/kg/day) showed a marked
increase in SGOT, SGPT, ALP, bilirubin (total, direct), total proteins, globulin, cholesterol and
decrease in albumin in comparison with the normal control group. The effect of ethanol extract
of C. grandis at 150mg/kg and 300mg/kg doses reduced the serum activities caused by
paracetamol and CCl4, which were observed to be statistically significant when compared with
that of the control group. Silymarin provided a better inhibition or exhibition of the biochemical
parameters induced by paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride in rats. The activity may be due to
the presence of either alkaloids or triterpenoids or reducing sugars or their combinations, as
obtained from the preliminary phytochemical screening of the leaves of the plant. The extract
showed no signs of acute toxicity up to a dose level of 3.2gkg1 in rats by oral route. Thus, it
could be concluded that ethanolic extract of C. grandis leaves possessed significant
hepatoprotective activity (Kundu et al., 2012).
Hepatoprotective Activity of Aqueous Fruit Extract of Coccinia indica against Paracetamol
Induced Hepatotoxicity in rats
To evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of the aqueous fruit extract of Coccinia indica against
paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Hepatotoxicity was induced in albino rats by
p.o of paracetamol (2gm/kg for 3 days). The aqueous fruit extract of Coccinia indica was
administered to the experimental animals at two selected doses for 14 days. The hepatoprotective
activity of the extract was evaluated by the liver function marker enzymes in the serum
In vitro pharmacological investigations of aqueous fraction of Coccinia cordifolia leaves 35
(asparitate transaminases AST, alanine transaminase ALT, alkaline phosphatase ALK.P, total
bilirubin TB, and histopathological studies of liver. Both the treatment groups showed
hepatoprotective effect against paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity by significantly restoring the
levels of serum enzymes to normal which was comparable to that of silymarin group. The oral
administration of Coccinia indica significantly ameliorate