Evaluation of the Phytochemical and Analgesic Properties of Crinum zeylanicum

Abstract

Crinum sp is a traditional herb that belongs to family Amaryllidaceae, which is a globally spread family containing about 90 genera and 1310 species. Crinum species have built a considerable reputation as potent folkloric remedies with their use being realized from ancient times in Africa, tropical Asia and South America, where they are said to show supposed habitat preferences. A literature search revealed numerous vernacular names for crinum across Africa, which signified a long-term active interest of the native communities in Crinums as a traditional medicine. Pain, in any of its forms (acute, chronic, visceral, inflammatory and neuropathic) is a global health problem that often has debilitating effects on the quality of life and work. The use of traditional medicine is still a common practice in Northern Uganda, owing to the persistent confidence of the local people in its efficiency in disease treatment and management, as well as its accessibility and affordability. Crinum is used traditionally in districts of northern Uganda such as Lira, Apac, Nwoya, Oyam and Kole as a topical application for pain relief by crushing and securing poultice using leaves, or by smearing sap onto the affected area. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemistry, as well as alkaloidal content of the plant specimen, thus determining its effectiveness in pain management. This was achieved by carrying out a phytochemical analysis of the plant leaves, bulbs and roots, as well as obtaining a comparative analysis of alkaloidal content of the various plant parts by weight. An in-depth literature search and screening was used to compile a literature review on the ethnobotany of crinum species. The phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of numerous phytochemical compounds including alkaloids, whose composition by weight was found to vary significantly across the leaves, bulbs and roots of C. zeylanicum. Therefore, the manner in which C. zeylanicum is used does not manage pain with the highest efficiency and would present better potency if another plant part (such as roots) was used.