Effect of methotrexate on the ultrastructure of Alliurn ceps L. and Haemanthus albiflos Jacq. roots cultured under anaerobic conditions

Changes were found in the cell structure of the root meristems of <em>Haemanthus albiflos</em> and <em>Allium cepa</em> treated with methotrexate, an oncostatic preparation of the antimetabolite group. Root culture was conducted under anaerorbic conditions to induce In this way glycolysis typical for neoplastic cells. In <em>Haemanthus</em>, where the glycolytilc process runs normally, hypertrophy of the rough ER membranes noted correlated with the presence of numerous mitochondria and dictyasames with changed Structure. In <em>Allium</em> cells, where the glycalytic process runs with the participation of alliin, methotrexate did not evoke development of ER membranes. The structure of mitochondria and dictyosomes was similar as that in the root meristem of <em>Haemanthus</em>. In both studied objects thickening of the cell wall was noted.

Phytotherapeutic Information on Plants Used for the Treatment of Tuberculosis in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

The current rate of deforestation in Africa constitutes a serious danger to the future of medicinal plants on this continent. Conservation of these medicinal plants in the field and the scientific documentation of our knowledge about them are therefore crucial. An ethnobotanical survey of plants used for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) was carried out in selected areas of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. These areas were Hala, Ncera, Sheshegu, and Gquamashe, all within the Nkonkobe Municipality. One hundred informants were interviewed. The survey included the identification of scientific and vernacular names of the plants used for treatment of TB as well as the methods of preparation and administration, the part used, dosage, and duration of treatment. The survey revealed 30 plants belonging to 21 families which are commonly used by traditional healers for the treatment of TB and associated diseases. Of these plantsClausena anisata, Haemanthus albiflos,andArtemisia afrawere the most cited. The leaves were the most common part used in the medicinal preparations. Our findings are discussed in relation to the importance of the documentation of medicinal plants.