ChemClass Journal

From molecular insights to sustainable solutions: Advancing chemical research for health, environment, and industrial innovation

Stanley I. R. Okoduwa — 2026-08-28

No Abstract

Proximate composition and mineral content of Cassia tora L. leaves

Yahaya A. Modibbo — 2026-08-28

The nutritional potential of underutilized leafy vegetables is increasingly recognized as a strategy to combat micronutrient deficiencies and enhance food security. This study determined the proximate composition, mineral content, anti-nutritional factors, and safety profile of Cassia tora L. leaves, a widely distributed plant in tropical regions with documented traditional uses. Fresh leaves were collected, washed, air-dried, and pulverized. Proximate analysis was conducted using standard AOAC methods with analytical validation (recovery 95.2-102.8%, RSD <5%). Mineral analysis for iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) was performed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) following wet digestion. Anti-nutritional factors (phytate, oxalate, tannins, cyanide) and heavy metal safety (Pb, Cd, As, Hg) were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Results showed that Cassia tora leaves contain moisture (6.25 ± 0.18%), ash (10.33 ± 0.24%), crude fiber (4.08 ± 0.12%), crude fat (8.19 ± 0.21%), crude protein (16.89 ± 0.35%), and carbohydrate (54.25 ± 0.68%) (n=3). Mineral analysis revealed iron (32.93 ± 1.85 mg/100g), manganese (6.95 ± 0.42 mg/100g), zinc (4.39 ± 0.28 g/100g), and copper (1.28 ± 0.09 mg/100g). Anti-nutritional factors were present at moderate levels: phytate (142.5 ± 8.3 mg/100g), oxalate (89.2 ± 5.1 mg/100g), tannins (45.8 ± 3.2 mg/100g), and cyanide (2.15 ± 0.18 mg/100g). Heavy metals were below safety thresholds (Pb: 0.08 ± 0.01 mg/kg; Cd: 0.02 ± 0.003 mg/kg). The high carbohydrate and appreciable protein content, combined with significant levels of essential minerals, suggest that Cassia tora leaves may possess substantial nutritional value when processed appropriately to reduce anti-nutritional factors. The low moisture content enhances storage stability, while the moderate fat and fiber contents contribute to dietary
quality. Safety analysis indicates suitability for consumption within established limits. These findings support further investigation into the traditional consumption of Cassia tora leaves and their potential as a functional food ingredient following appropriate processing for addressing nutritional deficiencies in resource-limited settings.

Substrate composition effects on black soldier fly larvae growth and bioconversion: A meta-analysis review

Alexander O. Ogabidu — 2026-08-28

As organic waste production rises, sustainable bioconversion technologies that adhere to the circular economy's tenets are needed. The larva of the Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens, BSFL) has become an important organism for turning various organic wastes into nutrient-dense frass and biomass that is high in protein. Nonetheless, the substrate composition has a significant impact on this process's efficiency. 131 international empirical research published between 2015 and 2026 are compiled in this systematic review and meta-analysis to quantitatively evaluate the effects of substrate properties on BSFL growth and bioconversion efficiency. The results indicate that crude protein content and carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio are the main factors influencing larval biomass yield and feed conversion efficiency, with 18–22% protein and a C/N ratio of 20–25:1 producing the best results. Multivariate modelling reveals important relationships between important parameters and emphasizes the complementary advantages of combining substrate pretreatments, especially microbial inoculation and physical size reduction. Significant adaptability may be shown in the larvae's dietary makeup, which closely reflects substrate characteristics. This study demonstrates that BSFL bioconversion is governed by interacting substrate factors rather than single traits and provides a predictive framework for optimizing substrates for scalable and sustainable waste management.

Foliar application of organic liquid nutrient affects selected vitamins and antioxidants in two basils (Ocimum gratissimum L. and Ocimum basilicum L.)

Funmilayo M. Oloyede — 2026-08-28

Study was conducted from December 2021 to June 2022 at the screen house of Osun State
University, College of Agriculture to evaluate the influence of foliar application of organic liquid
nutrient concentrations on the selected vitamins and antioxidant in two species of Ocimum. The
experiment was laid out in a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) in ten replications with four
treatments of organic liquid nutrient, with varied concentrations (T1: 5 ml/10 liters of water, T2:
10 ml/10 liters of water, T3: 15 ml/10 liters of water and Control: 0 ml). The two species of Ocimum
leaf seedlings were nursed for five weeks and were transplanted into each pot at the nursery house.
Results showed that for the antioxidant components, alkaloid was higher in O. basilicum with a
value of 3.74% compared to O. gratissimum with a value of 3.60% under plants that did not receive
organic liquid nutrient. For saponin, both species of Ocimum did not differ significantly (P<_0.05).
For plants that received 15 ml/ litre of organic nitrogen, O. basilicum had 8.81% of flavonoid while
O. gratissimum had 8.73%. Phenol was also higher in O. basilicum than O. gratissimum. For vitamins
and carotene contents of Ocimum gratissimum and Ocimum basilicum, 10ml of liquid organic
nutrient had a considerable effect on increasing parameters of both basils. Results showed in
Ocimum gratisimum, carotene (mg/100g) was significantly highest at 0ml of liquid organic nutrient
(16.37) and lowest at 5ml of liquid organic nutrient (13.33) compared to Ocimum basilicum at 0ml
of liquid organic nutrient (13.77). Vitamin C and E was significantly higher in Ocimum basilicum at
0ml nutrient concentration (0.07-27.37) compared to Ocimum gratissimum at 5ml nutrient
concentration (0.027) and 15ml nutrient concentration (20.23) respectively.

Production and evaluation of mosquito repellent coil using orange (Citrus sinensis) peel extract

Yahaya A. Modibbo — 2026-08-28

Mosquito-borne diseases remain a major public health concern, and continued reliance on synthetic mosquito coils raises issues of cost, insecticide resistance, and indoor air quality. This study produced and evaluated a plant-based mosquito repellent coil formulated from orange peel (Citrus sinensis) extract. Dried orange peels were extracted using ethanol and the extract was incorporated into a combustible base with starch solution as the binder. Gas ChromatographyMass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis confirmed limonene (87.3%) as the major constituent, with linalool (2.1%), citral (1.8%), and α-pinene (1.2%) as minor components. Turmeric and camphor were included as botanical repellent enhancers, while activated charcoal was added to support steady combustion and improve smoke characteristics. Dose-response studies were conducted at 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% extract concentrations, with 15% showing optimal repellency (91.2%) and burning characteristics. Performance was assessed using standardized WHO cone bioassay with Aedes aegypti, physical properties, burning time, mosquito repellency effectiveness, air quality emissions (PM2.5, CO, formaldehyde), stability over 3 months storage, and thermal degradation analysis. From 100 g of dried orange peel, 8.5 g of extract was obtained, giving a percentage yield of 8.5%. The formulated coils showed good structural integrity, produced moderate smoke, and had a characteristic, pleasant citrus odour. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed significant differences in repellency between concentrations (F = 24.36, p < 0.001), and t-test confirmed comparable burning time to commercial coils (t = 2.14, p = 0.067, 95% CI: -1.65 to 0.05). The average burning time of the 15% orange peel-based coil was 6.4 hours, compared with 7.0 hours for a commercial mosquito coil. Standardized bioassay revealed knockdown rates of 45% at 30 min and 78% at 60 min, with 82% mortality after 24h. Stability studies showed 94% essential oil retention after 3 months, and thermal analysis indicated 23% limonene degradation during combustion. Emission analysis demonstrated significantly lower PM2.5 (p < 0.01) compared to commercial coils. Overall, the orange peel-based coil demonstrated appreciable repellency, acceptable burning performance, improved safety profile, and satisfactory stability, suggesting potential for an affordable, eco-friendly household mosquito control product.

Effects of processing methods on fatty acid composition of three sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) cultivars

Funmilayo M. Oloyede — 2026-08-28

Sesame seeds are valued for their high nutritional and medicinal benefits globally. This study investigated the effects of cold and heat processing methods on the fatty acid compositions of sesame seed oil. Three varieties namely: White Benue, Cameroon White, and E8 were cultivated using standard agronomic practices in Ejigbo Campus of Osun State University in 2024. The seeds were evaluated for fatty acids using standard assays. Linoleic acid composition was significantly highest in E8 with a value of 11.81% and significantly lowest in Cameroon White with a value of 11.65%. Linolenic acid, Lauric acid, Capric acid, Myristoleic acid and Palmitic acid compositions were significantly highest in White Benue. Behenic acid composition was 0.03% as there was no significant difference across the cultivars. Linoleic acid had its highest significant value in the cold extracted oil (12.08%) in comparison with its value in the high heat extracted oil (11.22%). Linolenic acid was significantly highest in mild heat extracted oil (11.70%) in comparison with other methods of extraction. Stearic acid was significantly highest in cold extracted oil (13.13%) while high-heat extracted oil had lowest value (11.26%). Palmitic acid had its highest significant value (18.21%) in cold extracted oil and its lowest value (17.15%) in high-heat extracted oil. Coldpressed oil is richer in nutritional compositions, preserving the essential fatty acids in sesame seeds. However, when heat needs to be applied, it has to be moderate (400C) in order not impair the health-promoting substances in the sesame oil.

Investigating the effect of acid concentration on the surface and structural properties of HCl-modified natural clay

Uwaila Omoruyi — 2026-08-28

This study examined the changes in the structural and surface properties of Omialafara natural clay upon acid modification, using different concentrations of HCl solution. The changes in the natural clay before and after the acid treatments were studied by different instrumental techniques such as powder XRD, FTIR, BET, and SEM-EDX. The surface acidity of the clays was measured via pyridine-FTIR spectroscopy. The SEM images of the clays revealed different morphological features due to changes in the clay structures upon acid modifications. The specific surface area (SSA) of the clay increased at high concentrations of acid treatment, with the highest SSA value of
528 m²/g obtained at 35% HCl. The high SSA value, which is an important parameter in adsorption studies, was caused by structural changes within the clay matrix upon acid activation. The Si/Al ratios were directly proportional to the SSA values for the modified clays. Measurement of the surface acidity revealed intense adsorption bands at 1580 cm-1 for Brønsted acid sites (BAS) and 1438 and 1483 cm^-1
for Lewis acid sites (LAS) for the acid-modified clays at modest concentrations (15% and 25% HCl). At low (5%) and high (35%) acid concentrations, weak and low-intensity bands were observed for BAS and LAS. The surface acidities of the unmodified and modified clays showed an inverse proportionality to Si/Al ratios, revealing that high Al content may be required to maintain high acidity in the modified clays for catalysis. While the 35% HCl-modified clay with the highest SSA value (528 m²/g), Si/Al ratio of 5.35, and low surface acidity may be efficient in adsorption studies, the 25% HCl-modified clay, which has a high SSA value of 450 m²/g, Si/Al ratio of 3.81, and a very high surface acidity, may be a suitable catalyst for various acid-catalyzed reactions.

Computational identification and validation of novel inhibitors targeting LLM genes in Staphylococcus aureus for antimicrobial drug development

Ayodeji A. Fakuade — 2026-08-28

Staphylococcus aureus is a formidable pathogen responsible for a wide variety of illnesses, including some that are resistant to several antibiotics. Targeting the key llm genes in S. aureus, which are crucial for bacterial lysis and methicillin resistance, is an attractive method for accelerating the development of novel antimicrobial drugs. The aim of this research is to computationally find and validate novel inhibitors targeting these llm genes to combat S. aureus infections. An in-silico investigation was done using a complete literature review on NCBI and genomic analysis to uncover the llm genes in the S. aureus genome. Using computational techniques, including molecular docking using AutoDock Tools and PERL, twenty-two ligands, including the standard drug (Tunicamycin), were docked against the active site of the llm gene-encoded protein receptor. Pharmacokinetic investigations and molecular docking studies showed six potential inhibitors: ZINC06605913, ZINC06905586, ZINC35022243, ZINC40483738, ZINC90417652, and ZINC85428484. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) using GROMACS were performed on the molecules (ZINC90417652) with the highest binding affinity to examine the dynamics and stability of the protein-ligand complex. The predicted inhibitor demonstrated good pharmacological and structural properties, underscoring it’s potential as an effective antibacterial medications compare to tunicamycin. This study underscores the effectiveness of computational techniques in the identification and validation of novel inhibitors, providing a firm platform for the development of new antimicrobial medications targeting the llm genes in Staphylococcus aureus.

Studies in anti-sickling and antioxidant properties of Canna indica, Pergularia daemia and Parquetina nigrescens leaves

Clifford O. Ehisuoria — 2026-08-28

This research focused on investigating the in-vitro anti-sickling and antioxidant activities of Canna indica, Pergularia daemia and Parquetina nigrescens. The plant materials were air-dried, pulverized, extracted with analytical-grade methanol, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator at 50^oC. The spectrophotometric analysis for antioxidants was carried out at different concentrations of the plant extracts. The anti-sickling property of the methanol extract of the three plants were investigated in HbSS in vitro by 2% sodium metabisulphite assay. The DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging test was used to evaluate the three plant extracts' capacity to function as antioxidants. The results obtained indicated that Parquetina nigrescens gave the lowest DPPH scavenging effect with the percentage inhibition of 30% at 0.2mg/ml compared to the standard vitamin C giving 85% at the same dose (0.2mg/ml),while the methanol extract of Canna indica leaves at high dose (250mg/ml) did not cause a significant reduction in the number of sickle cell but Pergularia daemia at the same dose (250mg/ml) led to a marked decrease in the number of sickled erythrocytes from 10% at the initial time of the experiment to 2% during the 90mins duration. This study reveals that Pergularia daemia have antisicking potentials which may also be linked to its antioxidant property.

Effect of vegetable oil industrial effluent discharge on the physiochemical properties of agricultural soil

Nicholas L. Magashi — 2026-08-28

This study investigates the effect of vegetable oil industrial effluent discharge on the physiochemical properties of agricultural soil. Soil samples were collected around a soybean vegetable oil industry (Hule & Sons Nig. Ltd) Wannune, Benue State in January 2026. The samples were analyzed for parameters such as pH, bulk density, soil particle size, soil porosity, moisture content, organic matter, organic carbon, exchangeable base, exchangeable acid, base saturation, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and essential nutrients such as total nitrogen, P, Ca, Mg, K and Na using standard methods. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics and results were compared with standards set by regulatory bodies such as Standard Rating of Nigerian Soil (SRNS) and The United State Department of Agriculture Soil Standard Range (USDA SSR). The results of the analysis indicated that the effluents discharged on agricultural soil has no significant effects on the soil as most of the parameters studied fall within the prescribed limit set by the regulatory bodies except for bulk density (1.64 gcm^-3 ) which was slightly above the set limit (0.1-1.6 gcm^-3 ) set by SRNS. The values for pH range between 6.20-6.70, while bulk density, porosity, moisture, organic matter, organic carbon, exchangeable base, exchangeable acid, CEC and base saturation were between 1.25-1.64 1.64 gcm^-3 , 38.11-52.83 %, 15.56-26.35 %, 1.69-2.52 %, 0.98-1.37 %, 6.99- 7.71 cmol kg^-1 , 1.14-1.19 cmol kg^-1 , 8.05-8.87 cmol kg^-1 and 86.13-86.92 % respectively. Similar results were obtained for essential nutrients with total nitrogen value ranging between 0.10- 0.12 %, while P, Ca, Mg, K and Na recorded 9.80-12.10 ppm, 3.94-4.36 cmol kg^-1 , 2.65-2.90 cmol kg^-1 , 0.21-0.26 cmol kg^-1 , 0.19-0.23 cmol kg^-1 respectively. The study therefore recommends regular treatment of effluent before discharge to avoid potential health hazard despite having no pollution potentials.

Biodegradation of naphthalene, phenanthrene, and pyrene by four indigenous fungal species isolated from petrochemical refinery effluent

Linda E.O. Ameh — 2026-08-28

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants of global environmental concern due to their toxicity and resistance to degradation. Traditional remediation approaches are often costly and unsustainable. This study investigated the potential
of four fungal species isolated from petrochemical refinery effluent in the biodegradation of selected PAHs (naphthalene, phenanthrene, and pyrene). Molecular identification of fungi was conducted by PCR amplification and sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. The fungal isolates were evaluated for PAH degradation capabilities at concentrations of 100, 150, and 200 mg/L. The residual PAHs were analysed using UV spectroscopy analysis and the percentage of each PAH removal was calculated. The four fungi were identified as Talaromyces purpureogenus, Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus flavus, and Fusarium oxysporum. Trichoderma harzianum
showed the highest degradation efficiency across all concentrations, followed by Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus, and Talaromyces purpureogenus. Degradation ranges were 92.6 ± 0.12% – 99.6 ± 0.06%, for naphthalene, 78.3 ± 0.12% – 99.1 ± 0.06% for phenanthrene, and 39.1 ± 0.06% – 95.3% ± 0.15% for pyrene. The results demonstrate that these fungi, especially Trichoderma harzianum and Fusarium oxysporum are potentially valuable species for environmentally friendly bioremediation of PAH-contaminated sites. This study underscores the potential application of indigenous fungal species in sustainable remediation of PAHcontaminated environments particularly in developing countries like Nigeria and supports their inclusion in future environmental clean-up strategies.

Evaluation of irrigation water quality from major water sources in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria

Dooyum Ajaga — 2026-08-28

Irrigation agriculture depends on adequate supply of desired quality water, suitable for the soil and the crops in an agricultural area. This study was carried out to determine the quality and suitability of different water sources in Gboko for irrigation. The water samples for this study were collected from streams, boreholes and hand dug wells in selected district of high agricultural activities in the area under study. The samples were collected in clean PVC bottles which were rinsed with distilled water and dilute HNO3. Physicochemical properties of the samples, including, pH, EC, Temperature, TDS, TSS, and hydrogeochemical properties ( Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+ ) were
determined. Sodium percentage (SP), Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) and Kelly’s ratio (KR) were calculated to set the criteria for irrigation water quality and suitability for use in the area. All samples were analysed using standard methods of AOAC and APHA. The study revealed that the values of pH, EC, Temperature, TDS, TSS, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+ varied from 6.80 to 7.02, 44.0 to 814.3 mmhos/cm, 23.86 to 26.50 °C, 153 to 225 mg/L, 72.0 to 130 mg/L, 40.0 to 72.15 meq/L, 27.2 to 58.6 meq/L, 18.2 to 37.30 meq/L and 21.38 to 31.53meq/L respectively. The calculated values of SAR, SP and KR ranged from 3.13 to 4.27, 31.52 to 47.49 and 0.201 to 0.432 respectively. The results
of the study showed that the water in the area is of good quality and suitable for irrigation of the soil for agricultural purposes and all efforts to maintain the quality should be sustained.

Computational modelling of kinetics and thermodynamics of ecofriendly dimerization of cyclopentadiene

Omolara O. Adeboye — 2026-08-28

This study explores the application of computational modeling in optimizing the kinetics and thermodynamics of the dimerization of cyclopentadiene, a fundamental organic reaction with relevance in polymer and pharmaceutical industries. Using Density Functional Theory (DFT) at B3LYP level with 6-311++G (2df, 2P) basis set in Spartan software. Geometric parameters such as bond length, bond angle and dihedral angle, atomic charge distribution for the reactant (GS), transition state (TS) and the product (PRD) were obtained and activation parameters were calculated at 373K. The study evaluates reaction pathways which show endo- and exo-pathways that minimize energy consumption and byproduct formation, aligning with the principles of green chemistry. A lower activation enthalpy (98.84KJ/mol) means the endo pathway has a lower energy barrier and kinetically favored compared with the activation enthalpy for exo-pathway (115.893 kJ/mol) which indicates that the exo-pathway requires more energy to proceed, making it slower than the endo pathway under the same conditions. In conclusion, this computational DFT study demonstrates that the endo pathway for cyclopentadiene dimerization is kinetically preferred due to its lower activation enthalpy (98.84" kJ/mol" ) compared to the exo pathway (115.893" kJ/mol" ), offering valuable insights for optimizing reaction conditions at 373 K. These results highlight efficient, low-energy routes that reduce byproduct formation.

Evaluation of the corrosion inhibition of Senna occidentalis and Polyalthia longifolia leaves extracts on reinforced steel in 2m HCl solution

Sani A. Manzo — 2026-08-28

Corrosion of reinforced steel in acidic environments poses significant challenges in industrial and construction applications. This study evaluates the corrosion inhibition performance of Senna occidentalis and Polyalthia longifolia leaf extracts on reinforced steel in 2 M HCl at 303 K over an immersion period of 24 hours. Extracts were prepared via maceration and tested individually and in combination. Corrosion rates and inhibition efficiencies were determined using the weight loss method, while FTIR and SEM analyses were used to characterize functional groups and surface morphology. Results show that Senna occidentalis and Polyalthia longifolia extracts achieved
inhibition efficiencies of 71% and 81%, corresponding to corrosion rates of 3.8 mm/year and 3.3 mm/year, respectively. In contrast, the combined extract exhibited a significantly higher inhibition efficiency of 98% and a markedly reduced corrosion rate of 0.36 mm/year. This represents a ~17– 27% improvement in efficiency and over 10-fold reduction in corrosion rate compared to individual extracts. The enhanced performance of the combined extract is attributed to synergistic interactions among phytochemical constituents, leading to improved adsorption and protective film formation on the steel surface. These findings highlight the potential of these plant extracts as effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable corrosion inhibitors.

GC-MS analysis of chemical compounds in aqueous and precipitate extracts of Nicotiana tabacum leaves

Isaac A.S. Bankole — 2026-08-28

Tobacco and its uses have been linked to various adverse health effects, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. A study was conducted to identify and quantify carcinogens present in Nicotiana tabacum using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques. The GCMS analysis of the aqueous extract of Nicotiana tabacum leaves revealed a diverse range of compounds, including ketones, aromatic hydrocarbons, alkenes, alkynes, and heterocyclic compounds. Ketones, such as 9-hydroxy Nonan-2-one, and aromatic hydrocarbons, including Toluene, p-Xylene, and Naphthalene, were detected. Naphthalene is a known human carcinogen that has been linked to various health problems, including cancer. The presence of potential carcinogens, like Toluene, highlights the potential health risks associated with the extract. The analysis also detected alkenes, such as 3,3-dimethyl-But-1-ene, and alkynes, including Octa-2,4-
diyne. Heterocyclic compounds, such as Benzofuran and Indene, were also present in the extract. The GC-MS analysis of the precipitate layer of the tobacco leaves extract revealed a diverse range of compounds belonging to various chemical classes. Amines, such as N,NDimethylethylamine,(Z)- (RT = 2.284 min), and aldehydes, like 2-Butenal, (Z)- (RT = 3.675 min), were detected. Aromatic hydrocarbons, including Toluene, Benzocyclobutene, and Naphthalene, were detected in the precipitate layer extract. Toluene was one of the most abundant compounds in the extract. The analysis also revealed the presence of epoxides, including 2-ethenyl-2- methyloxirane, and ketones, such as 2-bromo-1-phenyl-Ethanone and 2,2-Dibromo-1- phenylethanone. Phenol, a simple aromatic compound, was detected in significant amounts, with a peak area of 717,623.20. The presence of naphthalene, toluene, and phenol, highlights potential health implications. Naphthalene is classified as (Group 2B) human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) that may increase the risk of cancer, Toluene shows neurotoxic effect like dizziness, headaches, reduced cognition, while phenol toxicity can
cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. This study successfully, identified and quantified chemical compounds present in aqueous and precipitate extracts of Nicotiana tabacum leaves, by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) technique, and revealed compounds that are potential carcinogens, and chemical toxicants with serious health implications.

Phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties of Corchorus olitorius leaves and Azanza garckeana seeds: Implications for phytocosmetic applications

S.D. Umoh — 2026-08-28

Skin aging, particularly photoaging, is largely driven by oxidative stress resulting from reactive oxygen species (ROS). Natural antioxidants from medicinal plants are of interest as potential contributors to skin health, as they may help mitigate oxidative stress mechanisms associated with aging. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and in vitro antioxidant activity of Corchorus olitorius leaves and Azanza garckeana seeds, with emphasis on their relevance to oxidative stress mechanisms associated with skin aging. Phytochemical analyses, both qualitative and quantitative, revealed the presence of bioactive compounds including phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, and steroids, with notably high levels of phenolics and flavonoids. Antioxidant activities were measured through DPPH, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging assays, along with the assessment of ascorbic acid content. Both plant extracts demonstrated strong, dose-dependent free radical scavenging activities, with ethanolic extracts performing better. The IC₅₀ values for DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging, calculated from triplicate measurements and expressed as mean ± SD, were below 100 µg/mL, indicating antioxidant capacity. When compared with literature reports on commonly used phytocosmetic plants such as Aloe vera, the extracts of Corchorus olitorius and Azanza garckeana demonstrated comparable or strong radical scavenging activity, despite differences in total phenolic content. While Corchorus olitorius is relatively well documented in the literature, Azanza garckeana remains underexplored with limited scientific data on its phytochemical and antioxidant potential, particularly in the context of phytocosmetic applications, making this inclusion a key novelty of this study.