Kinshasa Study Reveals Promise Of Traditional Medicinal Plants Against Infections

As antimicrobial resistance continues to escalate, researchers are increasingly turning to traditional medicinal plants for solutions. A recent study conducted in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has shed light on the potent properties of three such plants—Dysphania ambrosioides, Ocimum gratissimum, and Tetradenia riparia—which are used in local communities to treat oral microbial diseases.

In this ethnobotanical survey, the research team led by Lyz Makwela Ngolo aimed to explore the phytochemical composition and the synergistic antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of these plants. With an increasing incidence of multi-drug resistant infections, the significance of this research lies in its potential contributions to affordable and effective treatments.

The study revealed a variety of bioactive compounds present in the extracts of these plants. Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed that all three plant extracts contained alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, iridoids, and anthraquinones, known for their health benefits. Specifically, the methanolic extract of T. riparia exhibited the highest total phenolic content, measured at 299.146 ± 0.143 mg GAE/g extract, while O. gratissimum recorded the highest flavonoid content at 138.256 ± 0.277 mg QE/g extract.

Using advanced techniques such as ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS), researchers identified key metabolites within the plant extracts. Notable compounds included rosmarinic acid, cirsimaritin, xanthomicrol, and various derivatives of kaempferol.

This comprehensive analysis of the phytochemical profiles established a scientific basis for the traditional uses of these plants. The decocted extracts demonstrated superior antioxidant activity compared to their percolated counterparts, with O. gratissimum achieving the highest antioxidant capacity recorded at 11.744 ± 0.584 µg/mL.

When assessed for antimicrobial properties against clinically relevant bacterial strains, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the study reported significant antibacterial activity. The extracts of O. gratissimum and T. riparia both showed the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 500 µg/mL against S. aureus and displayed additive effects when used in combination. These results demonstrate that the extracts from these plants not only have individual efficacy but may also work synergistically to enhance their antimicrobial activities.

Moreover, the rising concern over the ineffectiveness of synthetic drugs against resistant microbes emphasizes the need for further exploration into plant-based remedies. The authors of the article noted, "The study provides evidence of the synergistic antioxidant and antibacterial potential of O. gratissimum and T. riparia,” reinforcing the idea that these natural resources could be leveraged to develop newer, safer, and more affordable treatment options.

As infectious diseases pose significant health challenges globally, particularly in developing nations where access to modern medicine can be limited, the traditional knowledge surrounding these medicinal plants offers a promising avenue for addressing the persistent health care crisis driven by antimicrobial resistance. The World Health Organization has highlighted the importance of integrating herbal medicine into primary healthcare systems, especially in regions with limited resources.

This study not only enhances our understanding of local medicinal plants but also opens new avenues for the exploration and synthesis of novel antimicrobial compounds derived from natural sources. The results underscore the necessity of prioritizing studies focused on the properties of traditional medicinal plants in the fight against infectious diseases.

In conclusion, the insights gained from this study of D. ambrosioides, O. gratissimum, and T. riparia indicate their potential as vital sources of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. The promising results of this research demand continued investigation into their mechanisms of action and applications in modern medicine, paving the way for significant advancements in the treatment of microbial diseases.