Physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of Calotropis procera Ait. root bark powders from 20 sites in Burkina Faso for standardization

Abstract

Calotropis procera is a component of the phytomedicine FACA®, used to manage sickle cell disease in Burkina Faso. This work aimed to standardize plant powders by evaluating the physicochemical characteristics and microbial quality of Calotropis procera root bark powders from different sites, with properties similar to those of the reference harvest site, to optimize the production of the phytomedicine. The samples were collected from different geographical areas of Burkina Faso during the dry season. The population, physicochemical characteristics, and microbial quality of each powder were evaluated. Twenty (20) geolocated harvest sites were identified with various soil types (clay, silt, gravel, and sand). The availability of Calotropis procera was high in Ziniaré, Ouaga 1, and Boromo; average across 8 sites; and low across 9. Physicochemical analyses of the powders revealed general uniformity in pH and residual moisture content. However, differences were observed in color, bitterness, and hygroscopicity. Total phenolics could serve as tracers, given their content is comparable to that of the reference. All samples complied with the specifications of the European Pharmacopeia 11th edition for total aerobic bacteria, yeasts and molds, and E. coli. Pathogens such as Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus have been found in some powders. This study identified the optimal sites for collecting Calotropis procera samples. Keywords: Sickle cell disease; Calotropis procera; root bark; geographical variability.