The Use of Basella Alba as a Hepatoprotective Agent

by Wasiah Olundegun

Medicinal plants are traditionally used in folk medicine as natural healing remedies with therapeutic effects such as prevention of organ damage (brain, kidney, liver), inflammation disorders or reducing the risk of cancer. They are priceless sources of bioactive compounds, and despite the contemporary progresses in pharmaceutical and drug developments they remain a major source of medicine for a large proportion of our world.

Medicinal plants are a valuable source of wide variety of chemical molecules having different functionalities that exhibit important biological activities and are linked to a multitude of beneficial properties such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant and enzyme-inhibitory, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, weight reducing, antihypertensive, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective and anticoagulant effects.

Different parts of medicinal plants (leaves, stems, roots, seeds, flowers or fruits) are rich sources of bioactive compounds. Similar protective and health-promoting effects of a plant-derived bioactive compounds have been found for humans and animals, and their general perception as being safe, natural and having fewer side effects in comparison with chemical drugs makes them highly attractive for consumers and industries.

Basella alba commonly known as Malabar spinach, is a versatile and nutritious leafy vegetable. This plant is commonly cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions due to its high nutritional value and adaptability to various environmental conditions. In Nigeria, it is referred as Amunututu among the Yoruba people, okpodéyovoton in Fon language and and Yoroukpé in Bariba language.

Malabar spinach is a fast-growing perennial vine that can reach up to 10 meters in length. It has thick, fleshy, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green and glossy. The stems are succulent and can be green or reddish depending on the variety. The plant produces small, white to pink flowers that develop into dark purple berries, each containing several seeds. There are two main varieties of Basella: Basella alba, which has green stems and Basella rubra, which has reddish stems.

It is also rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, being an excellent source of vitamin A and C, iron, calcium and magnesium. These nutritional values make it a valuable addition to the diet, particularly in regions where malnutrition is a concern. It is also rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, compounds which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic disease such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. The leaves of Basella alba have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that extracts from the plant can inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators, which may help alleviate conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

The high fiber content in Malabar spinach promotes healthy digestion by adding bulk to the stool and facilitating regular bowel movements. It can help prevent constipation and maintain a healthy gut biome. The high levels of vitamin A and C in Malabar spinach support immune function. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of mucosal surfaces, such as those in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, while vitamin C enhances the production and function of white blood cells.

Basella alba is rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, carotenoids and polyphenols which have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering properties. The plant’s high content of antioxidants helps to neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, a major contributor to liver damage in hypercholesterolemic conditions.

The innovative use of Basella alba leaf extract as a hepatoprotective agent presents a promising natural alternative for managing hypercholesterolemia and its associated liver damage. Its ability to reduce cholesterol levels while maintaining normal liver enzyme activity sets it apart from conventional treatments that may cause organ damage. As interest in plant-based therapy grows, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying Basella alba hepatoprotective effects and lipid-lowering effects, as well as its long-term safety. Basella alba may eventually be an accessible and affordable treatment for hypercholesterolemia, especially in areas where conventional therapies are inaccessible.

Components of Basella alba and Their Effect on Human Metabolism