Aristolochia longa L. & Ephedra alata Decne: Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity.

Abstract

Aristolochia longa and Ephedra alata are widely used in Algerian traditional medicine for cancer management, prostate disorders, and metabolic regulation. However, uncontrolled usage and lack of dosage guidance raise safety concerns. This study aimed to document their ethnopharmacological applications, characterize their phytochemical profiles, and evaluate their cytogenotoxic effects using the Allium cepa bioassay. A structured survey of 200 herbalists, traditional healers, and local users across eight western Algerian regions captured data on plant parts, preparation methods, dosages, and therapeutic indications. Aqueous, hydroethanolic, and decoction extracts of A. longa stems and E. alata roots were prepared, dried, and weighed to determine extraction yields. Total polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins were quantified spectrophotometrically (Folin–Ciocalteu, AlCl₃, and vanillin assays). Cytogenotoxicity was assessed by exposing Allium cepa root meristems to a range of extract concentrations; mitotic index, phase indices, and chromosomal aberration frequencies were calculated