Memory challenges and cognitive decline, linked to neurodegenerative illnesses, continue to rise worldwide without effective remedies. Traditional medicinal plants have shown promise in mitigating these conditions. This study evaluated synergy-based aqueous combinations of Spondias mombin, Spilanthes filicaulis, and Piper guineense for learning and memory enhancement. Two formulations, H1 (ratio 2:2:4) and H2 (ratio 2:2:2), were prepared, administered, and assessed using the Morris Water Maze and Y-maze tests, alongside biochemical analyses of oxidative stress markers (MDA, H₂O₂, SOD, GSH, GPx, GST), nitric oxide levels, and acetylcholinesterase activity. Histopathological examination of the hippocampus was also performed. Results showed that scopolamine impaired learning and memory, elevated oxidative stress, and caused hippocampal damage. However, treatment with the combined extracts H1 and H2 significantly improved spatial learning and working memory compared to scopolamine controls, as evidenced by reduced escape latency and increased spontaneous alternation. Additionally, H1 and H2 lowered oxidative stress markers, restored antioxidant enzyme balance, reduced AChE activity, and ameliorated neuronal disruptions. Among the two formulations, H1 consistently demonstrated superior neuroprotective and antioxidant effects across behavioral and biochemical assays. These findings suggest that synergy-based combinations of these plants, particularly H1, may offer a promising approach for memory enhancement and warrant further investigation for development into an herbal therapeutic product.

Background: Launaea taraxacifolia (Willd.) Amin ex C. Jeffrey is a traditionally recognized medicinal plant with reported anticancer potential; however, it remains largely underutilized and is often regarded as a wild or neglected species. This review presents a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of existing evidence on the anticancer properties of L. taraxacifolia . Methodology: Relevant literature was systematically retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar and African Journals Online using targeted and structured search terms, and publications published from 2005 to date were considered for inclusion in the review. Results: The accumulated evidence indicates that L. taraxacifolia exhibits significant biological activities in experimental models that are relevant to cancer-related processes, including inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, induction of programmed cell death (apoptosis), and modulation of critical molecular pathways implicated in tumor initiation and progression. In addition, the species demonstrates notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and DNA-protective effects, which further support its relevance in cancer prevention and therapy. Phytochemical investigations reveal a diverse range of bioactive constituents such as saponins, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids believed to underpin its therapeutic effects. Evidence from studies involving isolated compounds, alongside available toxicity assessments, further reinforces the medicinal relevance and safety profile of the species. Conclusion: This narrative review highlights Launaea taraxacifolia as promising anticancer potential through the modulation of key cancer-related pathways. However, further phytochemical, mechanistic, preclinical, and clinical studies are needed to validate its potential for cancer prevention and management. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.

Uvaria chamae, commonly known as finger root or bush banana, has attracted considerable interest across West Africa due to its ethnomedicinal importance, edible value, and reported antidiabetic and anti-infectious properties. Thus, increasing demand for the species in traditional medicine has led to intensive harvesting from the wild, threatening its survival. Despite its significance, knowledge essential for its sustainable management, conservation, and utilization remains limited and fragmented. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of the existing knowledge on U. chamae. Relevant literature was retrieved through systematic searches across PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ResearchGate, African Journals Online, and the Environmental Science Collection using structured and targeted search terms. The review covers taxonomy, geographical distribution, ecology, morphological variation, propagation techniques, phytochemical composition, and documented health benefits of the species. In addition, it critically evaluates current evidence regarding its antidiabetic and anti-infectious activities, toxicity profile, and potential clinical applications. The available evidence highlights U. chamae as a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential for the development of antidiabetic and anti-infectious therapeutics. By consolidating current knowledge and identifying existing research gaps, this review provides a foundation for future studies and supports ongoing efforts toward conservation, domestication, sustainable utilization, and valorization of U. chamae.

Medicinal plants are valuable sources of structurally diverse bioactive compounds with potential antiviral properties, although their chemical complexity complicates candidate prioritization. This study developed a hierarchical computational framework to prioritize metabolites from Uvaria chamae against Ebola virus glycoprotein GP1–GP2 (PDB ID: 5F1B) and SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease PLpro (PDB ID: 7CMD). A library of 105 phytochemicals was evaluated using statistical analyses, molecular docking, Prime MM-GBSA, ADMET and medicinal chemistry assessments, induced-fit docking, 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations, and conceptual DFT. Although overall docking-score distributions did not differ significantly among plant organs, top-ranked candidates were predominantly associated with roots and stems, while flavonoids, acetogenins, and phenolics showed the most favorable profiles. Proanthocyanidin emerged as the leading Ebola GP candidate (Prime MM-GBSA ΔGbind = −45.66 kcal/mol), whereas uvangoletin showed the most balanced PLpro profile (−41.69 kcal/mol). MD simulations with toremifene and GRL0617 as references supported structural persistence of the prioritized complexes. DFT analysis yielded HOMO–LUMO gaps of 5.37 eV for proanthocyanidin and 4.81 eV for uvangoletin. This framework enables reproducible prioritization of plant organs, phytochemical classes, and metabolites before experimental validation.

Uvaria chamae P. Beauv., commonly known as finger root or bush banana, is an important medicinal and edible plant widely used in West and Central Africa. Its increasing use in traditional medicine has intensified harvesting pressure on natural populations, highlighting the need for comprehensive scientific knowledge to support its sustainable management and valorization. This narrative review aimed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of the available knowledge on the taxonomy, ecology, propagation, phytochemistry, ethnomedicinal uses, and pharmacological properties of Uvaria chamae, with particular emphasis on its antidiabetic and anti-infective potential. Relevant literature published between 2004 and 2026 was retrieved through structured literature searches of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, African Journals Online, Google Scholar and the Environmental Science Collection using predefined search terms. Peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, theses, books, and other relevant scientific sources addressing the ethnomedicinal uses, pharmacology, toxicity, biology, and conservation of Uvaria chamae were screened and selected according to predefined eligibility criteria. The review revealed that Uvaria chamae contains a diverse range of bioactive constituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids, acetogenins, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and essential oils, which have been associated with various biological activities. Experimental studies provide evidence supporting its antidiabetic and anti-infective potential, while available toxicological data suggest low toxicity at the doses tested. The review also identified important knowledge gaps, particularly regarding clinical validation, mechanisms of action, propagation biology, and sustainable exploitation strategies. The available evidence highlights Uvaria chamae as a promising source of bioactive compounds for further investigation in the management of diabetes and infectious diseases. By consolidating existing knowledge and identifying research priorities, this review provides a scientific foundation for future studies and supports ongoing efforts toward the conservation, domestication, sustainable utilization, and valorization of this important medicinal species.