Physicochemical properties and biological evaluation of Yoyo bitters

The current widespread distribution and use of Yoyo bitters; an herbal bitters made in Nigeria calls for an assessment of its content, efficacy and extent to which this product achieves the labelled claim of being an herbal cleanser.

The pH, analysis for trace metal and preliminary phytochemicals screening were assessed. In addition, the total phenolic acid content, antioxidant activity using DPPH inhibition and microbiological assay were evaluated using standard procedures. The biological effect of different doses on weight, blood glucose, haematological parameters, liver function and tissues pathology were investigated in healthy Wistar rats over a 28-day period.

Yoyo bitters is a slightly acidic liquid (pH 5.46), containing 0.110 μg/L of zinc, little quantities of saponins, alkaloids, anthraquinones and cardenolides. Low total phenolic acid content (537.7 ± 22.38 mgGAE/mL), poor radical scavenging activity; DPPH IC50 of 855.27 ± 85.8 mg/mL compared with 1.27 ± 0.03 and 1.24 ± 0.02 mg/nL for gallic acid and ascorbic acid respectively. There was lack of antibacterial activity. The weight, blood glucose level and liver function were not affected, while only WBC and platelet levels were increased significantly (p = 0.003). Gut associated lymphoid tissues (GALT) was observed in the intestine as well as hepatic lesions with some of the treated groups.

Yoyo bitters has a weak antioxidant activity, thus may not possess significant effect on the enhancement of general body health. It has immune-potentiating effect with the risk of development of hepatic degeneration.