Local Medicinal Uses and Phytochemical Profiling of Phragmanthera capitata and Tapinanthus bangwensis (Loranthaceae) for Treatment Hypertension in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Aim: Hypertension is a major public health problem in West Africa. Plants of the Loranthaceae family, particularly Phragmanthera capitata and Tapinanthus bangwensis, are commonly used to treat this condition, but their bioactive properties remain poorly documented. This study aimed to document traditional practices and perform a qualitative phytochemical analysis of the leaves of these two species in Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire. Methods: A semi-structured ethnopharmacological survey was conducted among 60 participants, mainly herbalists, followed by phytochemical screening. The harvested leaves were dried, powdered and extracted by aqueous and hydro-ethanolic maceration. The extracts were analysed for the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, polyphenols, terpenes and steroids. Results: Traditional knowledge was mainly passed down through ancestral means. The leaves were unanimously cited and used exclusively in the treatment of hypertension, mainly in the form of decoctions administered orally. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins and alkaloids in all extracts, with aqueous extracts showing a greater abundance of flavonoids and saponins, while terpenes and steroids were only detected in hydro-ethanolic extracts. Conclusion: This study provides solid scientific evidence linking ethnopharmacological practices to the phytochemical composition of Loranthaceae, thus supporting their traditional use and providing a valuable basis for future pharmacological and toxicological research.