Keywords
I. hirsuta,
N. nigricollis,
spectroscopy
How to Cite
Abstract
Phytoconstituents have been reported to have protective activity against snake venom. This research work is aimed at identifying the components using two spectroscopic techniques Fourier Transform- Infrared (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) and scientifically test their antivenin potential via in vivo model. Preliminary phytochemical screening conducted on chloroform fraction obtained through liquid-liquid partition of crude methanol extract revealed the presence of secondary metabolites including alkaloids, steroids, terpenes and phenols. FTIR spectrum of the column fraction (E) showed sharp absorption band at 29.22.2 cm-1 characterized by C-H stretching, weak diagnostic peak at 2853.3cm-1 for methoxy group and appearance of peak at 1459.3cm-1 due to C-C stretching for aromatic molecule. GCMS analysis identified various components at different retention time including hispidulin triacetate (22.302min) as the major components while other constituents detected include squalene (23.401min), fumaric acid (20.00min) heptafluro butyric acid (12.0314min) and linoelainic acid (14.177min). Chloroform fraction (at 125, 250 and 500mg/kg) was able to protect mice lethality induced by Najo nigricollis venom in dose dependent manner (40, 40 and 60% respectively) while pooled fraction (E) offered 100% protection only 15mg/kg. The observed biological activity might be attributed to the identified phytoconstituents. Therefore, further work on isolation of pure compound needs to be done to ascertain the component(s) responsible for this activity