Phytochemical and Therapeutic Evaluation of Spathodea campanulata Used in Traditional Medicine in Kogi State
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Abstract
This study investigates the ethnomedicinal relevance of Spathodea campanulata (African tulip tree) in the management and treatment of commonly reported diseases in Kogi State, Nigeria, focusing on its traditional uses, phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential. Data were obtained through an extensive literature survey and structured interviews with 300 indigenous practitioners, documenting 16 distinct health conditions and a total of 2,903 ethnomedicinal citations. The most frequently reported uses were for skin rashes (254 responses; 84.7%), arthritis and rheumatism (231; 77%), ulcers (225; 75%) and syphilitic sores (203; 67.7%), indicating high reliance on the plant for dermatological, inflammatory and infectious conditions. The bark emerged as the most utilized plant part, followed by leaves, roots and flowers. Phytochemical screening across four plant parts and four solvent extracts confirmed the presence of seven major bioactive classes, notably alkaloids and glycosides (detected in nearly all extracts), flavonoids (present in over 80% of extracts) and tannins and saponins (moderately distributed). Phenolic compounds were also widely detected, while anthraquinones and anthocyanins showed limited occurrence and coumarins were absent in all samples. These compounds are associated with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, thereby supporting the plant’s traditional therapeutic applications. The findings validate indigenous knowledge of S. campanulata and underscore the medicinal potential of S. campanulata. However, comprehensive pharmacological evaluations and controlled clinical trials are necessary to establish its efficacy, safety and suitability for integration into modern healthcare systems.
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