Introduction
Trichilia emetica, also known as Natal Mahogany, is a plant native to Africa that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.1 Individuals have historically depended on it for the treatment of various medical conditions such as gastrointestinal discomfort, skin issues, and even as an aid in childbirth. Scientists have been captivated by its possible therapeutic advantages and have determined that it possesses numerous qualities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and even some anti-infective effects. Scholars have identified diverse compounds within the botanical specimen, such as limonoids and polysaccharides, which appear to contribute to its therapeutic attributes. Some of these compounds have exhibited encouraging outcomes in combating fungi, bacteria, and viruses. A particular form of polysaccharide present in the plant may even facilitate the process of wound recovery. On the whole, Trichilia emetica showcases considerable potential as a natural treatment with a broad spectrum of health advantages.1,2
Chemicals found in the meliaceae family
Studying the Meliaceae family, which includes mahogany trees, to understand their chemical makeup and biological activities can reveal a lot about their potential in healthcare. One crucial category of compounds discovered in Meliaceae trees is limonoids. These are plentiful within the Meliaceae family, with over 300 distinct varieties identified up to now. Their various biological activities, such as insecticidal, antifungal, and antibacterial, are well-known. Certain limonoids have displayed potential in managing illnesses like malaria, and scientists are also investigating their potential anticancer impacts.
Traditional remedies and preparations for common health conditions1
| Condition | Preparation and administration |
| Abdominal pain | The powdered leaf or root decoction may be utilised in bathing or consumed orally following the incorporation of salt and lemon twice daily. Decoctions made from pulverised bark combined with two cups of hot water. |
| Backache | An infusion of the leaf or bark. |
| Cough | Administration of a leaf decoction orally or consumption of powdered root mixed with porridge. |
| Constipation | A decoction of the leaf, root, or stem is administered for a duration of three to seven days. Consumption of the leaf decoction combined with Opilia celtidifolia is typically done orally. |
| Chest pain | The infusion of leaves is applicable for application in a sauna or for therapeutic rubbing, particularly targeting the thoracic region. |
| Digestive infections | The infusion of the root is combined with coffee and ingested over a period of three days, or it can be mixed with the root of Cassia sieberiana along with honey and imbibed for a duration of five days during the morning. |
| Jaundice | The root decoction is administered orally for a duration of 15 days. Alternatively, crushed roots may be combined with honey and water for a bath. |
| Malaria | The oral administration of the stem decoction combined with honey is recommended. The decoction consisting of the roots, stems, and leaves should be consumed 2–3 times daily for a duration of three days. It is advised to orally consume a macerate of the T. emetica root, Pseudocedrela kotschii, and Nauclea latifolia mixed with honey for a period of 10 days. |
Trichilia emetica bark: traditional uses
Trichilia emetica has a long-standing reputation in traditional medicine for addressing a variety of health issues. The bark has been found to be used as a vermifuge (used to destroy intestinal worms) and for treating syphilis. It's often sought after for its effectiveness in relieving abdominal pain, dermatitis, haemorrhoids, jaundice, and chest pain.1 This rich history of medicinal use has piqued the interest of researchers, who have delved into its potential health benefits. Research has investigated the antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities of T. emetica, indicating its potential as a versatile remedy. Notably, its bitter bark is highly regarded for treating malaria-related fevers, stomach issues, and headaches.1,2
Antimicrobial activity
T. emetica, a traditional remedy for respiratory issues, was studied for its antibacterial properties against common pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The root extract showed significant activity against these bacteria. This research highlights the potential of T. emetica as a natural remedy for fighting bacterial infections.3
Anti-inflammatory activity
Inflammation is the body's defence mechanism against harmful substances like germs or irritants, involving various different pathways. Two types of extracts from T. emetica leaves were tested for their ability to reduce inflammation. The results showed that the aqueous extract was highly effective. However, another study found that methanol and water extracts of T. emetica leaves had limited anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory tests.1,2 In Senegal and Congo, a concoction made from the stem bark which is combined with various botanicals and incorporated into bath water for the purpose of addressing ovarian issues, vaginal infections, and fever in children. A decoction of bark is administered to alleviate stomach discomfort.
Antibacterial properties of trichilia emetica root extracts
The root bark of Trichilia emetica contains compounds called "trichilins," which have various biological activities such as deterring insects, regulating growth, and fighting against fungi, bacteria, and viruses. To explore its medicinal potential, an extract of the root was prepared based on traditional usage by healers. Additionally, the extract was studied to determine if polyphenols or limonoids were responsible for its therapeutic effects.3,4
The antibacterial screening showed that the ethyl ether fraction had remarkable activity against bacteria linked to respiratory infections. The ethyl ether fraction showed effectiveness comparable to ampicillin against certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus and performed well against bacteria like Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Haemophilus influenzae. However, some strains displayed resistance at higher concentrations.2,5
Comparative phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of african mahogany bark extracts, with focus on khaya senegalensis
The study aimed to compare the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial effects of bark extracts from four African mahogany species: Notably, K. senegalensis and K. anthotheca extracts were particularly potent against microbes in water and ethanol solutions, respectively.4 Khaya senegalensis, also known as dry zone mahogany, has a long tradition in traditional medicine, used for ailments like fever, headaches, leprosy, syphilis, and even as an aphrodisiac. Phytochemical screening of its leaves has identified key components like flavonoids, glycosides, carbohydrates, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids, known for their medicinal properties against various diseases.6,7,8
Toxicity
Researchers studied how toxic extracts from the bark of the Mahogany tree affect a type of snail called the edible periwinkle. They used two types of extracts: one made with water (aqueous) and the other with alcohol (ethanolic). They found that the extract made with alcohol was much more toxic to the snails compared to the water-based extract. The snails showed signs of poisoning like not moving and eventually dying. This study helps us understand the potential risks of using these extracts and highlights the importance of safety when dealing with natural substances.9,10
Summary
Trichilia emetica, known as Natal Mahogany, has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments like abdominal pain, dermatitis, and fevers. Research suggests it possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential natural remedy for infections and inflammatory conditions. The bark of T. emetica is particularly valued for its effectiveness in treating fevers associated with malaria and headaches. Additionally, studies on other African mahogany species reveal promising antimicrobial activity in bark extracts. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of mahogany bark in addressing a range of health issues, supporting its continued exploration in healthcare. Mahogany bark, derived from trees like Trichilia emetica and Khaya senegalensis, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.7,8 It's known for its bitter taste and is often sought after for relieving fever, headaches, stomach issues, and even skin problems. Recent studies have revealed that mahogany bark contains beneficial compounds such as flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, and alkaloids, which may support its potential health benefits. While we're still learning exactly how it works, studies suggest that mahogany bark could offer relief from fever when used alongside other treatments. However, it's important to consult with healthcare professionals before trying mahogany bark or any herbal remedy to ensure safety and proper usage.2,8
Key words - Trichilia emetica, Natal Mahogany, Traditional African medicine, Phytochemical composition, Limonoids, Polysaccharides, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Antifungal, Antiviral, Traditional remedies, Pharmacological activities, Khaya senegalensis, Mahogany bar, Clinical trials
References
- Komane BM, Olivier EI, Viljoen AM. Trichilia emetica (Meliaceae) – A review of traditional uses, biological activities and phytochemistry. Phytochemistry Letters [Internet]. 2011; 4(1):1–9. Available from: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1874390010000947.
- Musengi K. Bitterbark tree, Cherry Mahogany - Fact sheet. Sensational Seasonals [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 16]. Available from: https://sensationalseasonals.com/pages/bitterbark-tree-cherry-mahogany-fact-sheet.
- Korang J, Opuni-Frimpong E, Ofori E, Owusu J. Comparative analysis of the phytochemical constituents and anti-microbial activities of four species of African Mahogany. Ghana Journal of Forestry. 2019; 35:51–63.
- Sani A, Alemika T, Zakama S, Wagami J, Barau M, Ilyas M. Phytochemical screening and thin layer chromatography of the leaves of Khaya senegalensis (dry zone mahogany) Meliaceae. J Pharm Bio [Internet]. 2013; 9(1):20–3. Available from: http://www.ajol.info/index.php/jpb/article/view/85365.
- Germanò MP, D’Angelo V, Sanogo R, Catania S, Alma R, Pasquale RD, et al. Hepatoprotective and antibacterial effects of extracts from Trichilia emetica Vahl. (Meliaceae). Journal of Ethnopharmacology [Internet]. 2005; 96(1–2):227–32. Available from: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0378874104004428.
- Frum Y, Viljoen AM. In vitro 5-Lipoxygenase and Anti-Oxidant Activities of South African Medicinal Plants Commonly Used Topically for Skin Diseases. Skin Pharmacol Physiol [Internet]. 2006; 19(6):329–35. Available from: https://karger.com/SPP/article/doi/10.1159/000095253.
- Diallo D, Paulsen BS, Liljebäck THA, Michaelsen TE. The malian medicinal plant Trichilia emetica; studies on polysaccharides with complement fixing ability. Journal of Ethnopharmacology [Internet]. 2003; 84(2–3):279–87. Available from: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0378874102003306.
- Diallo D, Paulsen B. Pharmaceutical research and traditional practitioners in Mali: Experiences with benefit sharing. In: Svarstad H, Dhillon S, editors. Responding to Bioprospecting from biodiversity in the South to medicines in the North. Norway: Spartacus Forlag; 2000; p. 133–44.
- Nakatani M, James JC, Nakanishi K. Isolation and structures of trichilins, antifeedants against the Southern army worm. J Am Chem Soc [Internet]. 1981; 103(5):1228–30. Available from: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/ja00395a046.
- Okonkwo CE. Comparative Toxicity Assessmentof Aqueous and Ethanolic Bark Extracts of Mahogany: Khaya grandifoliolaon Mangrove Periwinkle; Pachymelania aurita. JBAH [Internet]. 2020. Available from: https://iiste.org/Journals/index.php/JBAH/article/view/52263.
