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Leaf and stem essential oils of Lonchocarpus cyanescens Benth., (Fabaceae) were obtained by hydro-distillation, using all-glass apparatus adapted to British Pharmacopeia specifications with yields of 0.03% and 0.17% respectively. The oils were investigated by GC and GC-MS analyses. Results show seven compounds were responsible for 90.4% of leaf; eleven compounds responsible for 97.6% of stem volatile oils. Phytol (62.5%) and hexadecanoic acid (12.4%) dominate the leaf oil; octadecenoic (24.1%) and hexadecanoic acids (17.2%) are predominant in the stem oil. Phytochemical screening of stem, leaf, and root methanol extracts of Lonchocarpus cyanescens reveal presence of following seven classes of metabolites: saponin, tannin, steroid, terpenoid, cardiac glycosides, phlobatannins and flavonoids. Partitioning of methanol extract from dried leaf of it with ethylacetate gave fraction, which was chromatographed using gradient elution. TLC with high Rf was used in monitoring elution. Two white crystalline solids eluted at 5% and 10% ethylethanoate in hexane, were re-crystallized and characterized. They were subjected to Infra-Red spectra, mass spectrometry (ESI technique), 1H and 13C-NMR analyses, which confirmed they are triterpenoids. Above mentioned metabolites may be responsible for literature acclaimed bio-activities L. cyanescens display [anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-microbial effects]. This paper presents details of above results which are new in literature.

Every culture in history has depended on the healing power of herbs. Even modern mainstream medicine is intimately linked to herbal traditions. Like other forms of alternative therapy, herbal medicine attempts not to cure disease, but helps the body to return itself in the state of balance i.e. health. In general, herbal medicines work in much the same way as conventional pharmaceutical drugs. Herbs contain a large number of naturally occurring substances that work to alter the body's chemistry in order to return it to its natural state of health. In recent years, due to fast and busy life style, mental tension, low physical activity, many diseases and disorders are increasing. One of the most common musculoskeletal disease and disorder is arthritis. Herbs have been used for centuries in the treatment of many diseases and it has been demonstrated that some of them can have an incredible effect as an herbal treatment for arthritis. In modern allopathic system many medicines are also prescribed for this disorder, but they have many side effects. Therefore to avoid their side effects, now days, people are much inclined to use herbs based medicines rather than modern allopathic. Keeping this in view, present paper highlights the phytochemistry of some medicinal plants which are used traditionally for treatment of arthritis in India. These herbs have properties that can significantly reduce joint pain or swelling and have no side affects. Some herbs viz. Boswellia serrata (Salai Guggul), Curcuma longa (Haldi), Commiphora mukul (Guggul), Ricinis communis (Arandi), Vitex negundo (Nirgundi), Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), and Zingiber officinale (Adrakh) are enumerated in this paper with their botanical names, local names, family, biological descriptions, phytochemistry and medicinal uses.

Heavy metal pollution has become a serious health concern in recent years, because of industrial and agricultural development. Heavy metals of industrial bio-waste contaminate drinking water, food and air. The toxic heavy metals of great concern are Cd, Pb and Hg which are usually associated with harmful effects in men and animals. It is recognized that heavy metals may exercise a definite influence on the control of biological functions, affecting hormone system and growth of different body tissues. Many heavy metals accumulate in one or more of the body organs with differing half-lives. The Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) of ground water was found to be far below the index limit of 100 points indicating that the ground water was not polluted with heavy metals in spite of the prolific growth of mining and allied industrial activities near the town. India revealed that Cd concentration varied from 1.0 to 9.1 ppm, Cu varied from 8.0 to 10.2 ppm and Pb content ranged from 0.1 to 10.4 ppm. In many district of Uttar Pradesh, India, most of the water bodies are being used for the cultivation of edible aquatic plants. It was found to be contaminated with a variety of toxic metals like Fe, Cu, Cr, Mn and Pb. Soils irrigated with the effluents had higher contents of micronutrients and heavy metals as compared to the corresponding well irrigated soils. water, soil, grass and mineral salt samples to investigate the sources of toxicity in animals. In this paper discussed the metal Pb, Cd, Zn, Ni, Cu, Fe and Mn are in different concentration in all the study Jhansi sites.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Clinacanthus nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau, a widely used medicinal plant, is extensively grown in tropical Asia and Southeast Asian countries. C. nutans, with its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, has been traditionally used to treat cancer, inflammatory disorders, diabetes, insect bites, and skin problems, consumed as a vegetable, mixed with fresh juices, in concoctions, and as a whole plant. The present review analyzes the advances in the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of C. nutans. In addition, the needs and perspectives for future investigation of this plant are addressed. Aim of the review This review aims to provide a comprehensive report on the ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, molecular mechanisms, and nutritional values of C. nutans. The present review will open new avenues for further in-depth pharmacological studies of C. nutans for it to be developed as a potential nutraceutical and to improve the available products in the market. Material and methods All the available information on C. nutans was collected using the key words “Clinacanthus nutans” and/or “ethnomedicine” and/or “phytochemicals” and/or “anticancer” and/or “anti-inflammatory” and/or “antiviral” through an electronic search of the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Clinical Trials.org, SciFinder Scholar, Scopus, and Google Scholar. In addition, unpublished materials, Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations, conference papers, and ethnobotanical textbooks were used. The Plant List ( www.theplantlist.org ) and International Plant Name Index databases were used to validate the scientific name of the plant. Results The literature supported the ethnomedicinal uses of C. nutans as recorded in Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia for various purposes. Bioactivities experimentally proven for C. nutans include cytotoxic, anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, antimicrobial, and chemotherapeutic (in aquaculture) activities. Most of these activities have so far only been investigated in chemical, cell-based, and animal assays. Various groups of phytochemicals including five sulfur-containing glycosides, eight chlorophyll derivatives, nine cerebrosides, and a monoacylmonogalactosyl glycerol are present in C. nutans. The presence of two glycerolipids, four sulfur-containing compounds, six known flavones, a flavanol, four flavonols, two phytosterols, one polypeptide, and various phenolics and fatty acids largely influences its diverse bioactivities. Numerous reports justify the ethnomedicinal use of C. nutans as an antiviral agent in treating herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus infections and as part of a traditional anticancer anti-inflammatory concoction agent for various inflammatory diseases. C. nutans tea was reported to have a good percentage of carbohydrate, crude protein, minerals, essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids, and essential fatty acids. Acute, subacute, and subchronic toxicity studies demonstrated that oral administration of ethanol and methanol extracts of C. nutans to male Swiss albino mice and male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats, respectively, did not lead to any toxicity or adverse effects on the animal behavior and organs when used in amounts as high as 2 g/kg. Conclusion The collected literatures demonstrated that, as an important traditional medicine, C. nutans is a promising ethnomedicinal plant with various extracts and bioactive compounds exhibiting multifarious bioactivities. However, it is important for future studies to conduct further in vitro and in vivo bioactivity evaluations systematically, following the standard pharmacology guidelines. It is crucial to elucidate in-depth molecular mechanisms, structure-activity relationships, and potential synergistic and antagonistic effects of multi-component extracts and bioactive constituents derived from C. nutans. Further studies should also focus on comprehensive toxicity that includes long-term effects and adverse effects on target organs of C. nutans and bioactive compounds in correlation with the specific pharmacological effects.

The majority of Kurds inhabit a region that includes adjacent parts of Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey. This review shows that the traditional medicine is still used by Kurdish peoples and underlines the medicinal value of a great number of plants used locally. The medicinal uses include the treatment of a variety of diseases, ranging from simple stomach-ache to highly complicate male and female disorders; even sexual weakness and kidney stones are treated by plants. The majority of the plants that are used are for curing gastro-intestinal disorders and inflammation, followed by urinary tract disorders, skin burns, irritations and liver problems. In the last part of this paper, we also report the first results of our ongoing research project on the constituents of some uninvestigated Kurdish medicinal plants. The C-glycosylflavone embinin, the α-methylene acyl derivative 6-tuliposide A, and the iridoids aucubin and ajugol were isolated for the first time from Iris persica, Tulipa systole and Verbascum calvum, respectively. These plants are traditionally used against inflammation, pain, and skin burns.

The vegetation of Northeastern Brazil is an important source of income for the local population. Poincianella pyramidalis is a very important species in the semiarid and is inserted in various categories of ethnobotanical use, as foraging, construction and technology uses. However, the most important use is medicinal. Several preparations obtained from the root, bark, leaves and flowers of P. pyramidalis are used to treat various ailments, especially infections, pain and inflammation. This paper discusses the medical use, chemical constituents and pharmacological potential of P. pyramidalis. This revision was based on studies published in scientific journals, books, and search sites such as Science Direct, PubMed and American Chemical Society (ACS). P. pyramidalis features a wealth of secondary metabolites, belonging to the most diverse classes as flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins and others. Of these, 22 compounds were included in this review. The species showed significant ability to perform biological activities such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, radioprotective and anticancer, as well as being both a molluscicide and larvicide. On the other hand, the species showed relative toxicity. Numerous compounds in P. pyramidalis were identified with recognized action on the body, where anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities were the most pronounced. All parts of the plant stem, flower, root and leaf showed pharmacological action validating many traditional uses. However, the identification of the chemical constituents or group responsible for producing these therapeutic actions, as well as carrying out of further test in vivo to determine the mechanisms of action related to biological activities is required. Key words: Poincianella pyramidalis, folk medicine, bioactive compounds, phytochemistry, biological activities.

Flavonoids, the most common plant polyphenols are widely distributed in every species and possess a broad range of pharmacological activities. The genus Astragalus is the largest in the Fabaceae family with more than 2,500 species spread. They are known to contain different metabolites such as flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides. Plants from the genus have been used in the traditional medicine of many countries for centuries. This paper is focused on the large group of flavonoid compounds. Details on structure as well as information about the pharmacological properties of flavonoids, isolated from Astragalus species have been discussed. This review is based on publications until the first half of 2014 and includes also the results from our phytochemical investigations of the genus.

Ethnopharmacological reference The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of infections is ancient. A wide variety of ethnotherapeutic properties and pharmacological actions has been attributed to Terminalia sericea . Studies by various groups of investigators reveal that it is a multipurpose medicinal plant used mostly in the treatment of diarrhoea, sexually transmitted infections, skin rashes, tuberculosis and other infections. The current paper is aimed at providing an overview of the ethnomedicinal uses, toxicology, pharmacology and the phytochemistry of Terminalia sericea . Materials and methods Information was retrieved using various search engines, including Pubmed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scielo, SciFinder and Scopus. The key words used included Terminalia sericea , secondary metabolites, phytochemistry, biological activity, pharmacology, ethnobotanical survey, medicinal uses, safety, toxicology and other related words. Results Terminalia sericea is an important medicinal plant which possesses anti-HIV, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anticancer, lipolytic, wound healing, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity, as the most valuable biological activities, thus lending pharmacological support to the plant's folkloric uses in indigenous medicine. Toxicologically, the extracts and isolated compounds from the plant species may have mild toxic effects. Phytochemically, the plant species possesses valuable compounds including triterpenes, alkaloids and flavonoids which may well contribute to its biological activity. Conclusions Terminalia sericea contains secondary metabolites which are valuable in the treatment of a variety of human infections, including community acquired infections which may be prevalent in developing countries. The degree of toxicity reported in various extracts warrants further exploration of the cytotoxicity of the plant species, both against normal human cell lines and in vivo . Moreover, the acetylcholinesterase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory effects also need to be further investigated as there are only a few reports from the literature on these aspects. There is also a need to further understand the mode of action of the extracts against various enzymes relating to inflammation. Antioxidant activity of the plant extracts against various forms of free radicals needs to be investigated. Although T. sericea is reported to be used for ethnoveterinary infections, there are no scientific reports on the anti-parasitic activity of the plant species against common animal parasites.

The genus Fagopyrum (Polygonaceae), currently comprising 15 species of plants, includes three important buckwheat species: Fagopyrum esculentum (F. esculentum) Moench. (common buckwheat), Fagopyrum tataricum (F. tataricum) (L.) Gaertn. (tartary buckwheat) and Fagopyrum dibotrys (F. dibotrys) (D. Don) Hara. (perennial buckwheat), which have been well explored due to their long tradition of both edible and medicinal use. This review aimed to present an up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of the phytochemistry and pharmacology of the three Fagopyrum buckwheats. In addition, the scope for future research was also discussed. All available references included in this paper were compiled from major databases, such as MEDLINE, Pubmed, Scholar, Elsevier, Springer, Wiley and CNKI. A total of 106 compounds isolated from three Fagopyrum buckwheats can be mainly divided into six classes: flavonoids, phenolics, fagopyritols, triterpenoids, steroids and fatty acids. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds were considered to be the major active components. Considerable pharmacological experiments both in vitro and in vivo have validated that Fagopyrum buckwheats possess antitumor, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic activities, etc. All reported data lead us to conclude that Fagopyrum buckwheats have convincing medicinal potential. However, further research is needed to explore its bioactive constituents, the relationship to their structural activities and the molecular mechanisms of action.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Kigelia africana is a quintessential African herbal medicinal plant with a pan-African distribution and immense indigenous medicinal and non-medicinal applications. The plant is use traditionally as a remedy for numerous disease such as use wounds healing, rheumatism, psoriasis, diarrhea and stomach ailments. It is also use as an aphrodisiac and for skin care. Aim of the review The present review aims to compile an up-to-date review of the progress made in the continuous pharmacological and phytochemistry investigation of K. africana and the corresponding commercial and pharmaceutical application of these findings with the ultimate objective of providing a guide for future research on this plant. Method The scholarly information needed for this paper were predominantly sourced from the electronic search engines such as Google, Google scholar; publishing sites such as Elsevier, scienceDirect, BMC, PubMed; other scientific database sites for chemicals such as ChemSpider, PubChem, and also from online books. Results Pharmacological investigations conducted confirm the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and anticancer activity of the extract of different parts of the plant. Bioactive constituents are found to be present in all parts of the plant. So far, approximately 150 compounds have been characterized from different part of the plant. Iridoids, naphthoquinones, flavonoids, terpenes and phenylethanoglycosides are the major class of compounds isolated. Novel compounds with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer effect such as verbascoside, verminoside and pinnatal among others, have been identified. Commercial trade of K. africana has boosted in the las few decades. Its effect in the maintenance of skin has been recognized resulting in a handful of skin formulations in the market. Conclusions The pharmaceutical potentials of K. africana has been recognized and have witness a surge in research interest. However, till date, many of its traditional medicinal uses has not been investigated scientifically. Further probing of the existential researches on its pharmacological activity is recommended with the end-goal of unravelling the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical relevance and possible toxicity and side effects of both the extract and the active ingredients isolated.

Rocket ( Eruca sativa Miller) is an annual herbaceous oilseed plant of family Brassicaceae. Its phytochemistry and pharmacological values have been reviewed in the present paper. The reported phytochemical studies conducted on various parts of E. sativa plant revealed the presence of flavonoid compounds, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, phenolics, saponins and tannins ascorbic acid, essential oil. The essential oil contains volatile components as well as a great amount of sulfur- and nitrogen-possessing compounds. The rocket plant is high in erucic acid. The rocket oil also has glucosinolate methylsulphinylbutyl isothiocyanate which induce enzymes activity. It is generally used as a food, in which the leaves are eaten as part of salads. Medicinally it is used for increasing fertility and sperm production, eye infection (antibacterial). It is also helpful in digestive process and kidney activities. E. sativa is mainly responsible for different biological and pharmacological activities such as: antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-fungal, antitumour, analgesic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antidiarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory, anti-giardial activity etc. Although plenty of compounds were isolated from this plant, but further bioactivities have not been widely investigated yet. And further efforts concerning therapeutic significance are necessary (to investigate formulas) for the improvement of human health.

Objective This study was set up to review the phytochemistry of Ganoderma applanatum , its potentiality in nanotechological engineering for clinical use as well as impact of aqueous extracts of Ganoderma applanatum on laboratoery rats infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Methods Aqueous extracts of Ganoderma applanatum were obtained using hot sterile distilled water and whatmann filter paper. The presence of saponins, alkaloids, tannins, anthraquinones, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides and steroids were tested using standard procedures. Acqueous extracts were also inoculated into laboratory rats infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei along with both positive and negative controls. Blood samples were collected daily, stained with Giemsa's stain and examined for the presence of parasites. Results Ganoderma applanatum aqueous extracts contained detectable levels of saponins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides and steroids but undetectable levels of alkaloids, tannins and anthraquinone. All the infected rats died by day 12 from overwhelming trypanosomal infections. Conclusion The biochemical constituents of Ganoderma species should be subjected to nanotechnological engineering in order to probably discover more of its wider therapeutic benefits, and to further disprove its suitability or otherwise in the treatment of African sleeping sickness.

This paper illustrates total phenolic, total flavonoid content, phytochemicals present and physical properties of oil obtained from Artemisia abrotanum and Artemisia pallens (Asteraceae). Total phenolic and flavonoid content was established by folin-ciocalteu assay and aluminum chloride colorimetric assay respectively. Studies in our laboratory shows the presence of alkaloids, terpenoids/ sterols, tannins, phenols, flavonoids in A. abrotanum and terpenoids/ sterols, tannins, phenols, flavonoids in A. pallens in ethanolic extract. The phenolic content in ethanolic extract of aerial parts of A. abrotanum and A. pallens was found to be 9.35 ± 0.008 mgGAE/g and 6.88 f 0.052 mgRE/g respectively, standard curve (Y = 0.01143X - 0.02093 and rz = 0.9994). The flavonoids content in ethanolic extract of aerial parts of A. abrotanum and A. pallens was found to be 11.0 ± 0.025 mgRE/g and 11.55 ± 0.006 mgRE/g respectively, standard curve (Y = 0.0471X - 0.0056 and r2 = 0.9984). The results suggests both plant c...

Background: Belamcanda chinensis (L.) DC (Iridaceae), a widely used traditional Chinese medicine known as She Gan (Chinese: 射干), is a flowering perennial herb native to East Asia. For thousands of years in China, the rhizome of Belamcanda chinensis has been used to treat inflammation, oxyhepatitis, mumps, acute mastitis, and asthma, as well as throat disorders such as cough, tonsillitis and pharyngitis. Belamcanda chinensis is now listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China. The present paper reviews the advancements in the investigation of botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of Belamcanda chinensis.Materials and Methods: Information on Belamcanda chinensis was collected from scientific journals, books, theses and reports via library and electronic search (PubMed, CNKI, Elsevier, ACS, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar,Web of Science and Science Direct).Results: A number of chemical compounds have been isolated from Belamcanda chinensis, and the major isolated compounds have been identified as isoflavonoids, flavonoids and iridal-type triterpenoids. Among these active compounds, the effects of tectoridin and tectorigenin have been widely investigated. The primary active components in Belamcanda chinensis possess a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-tumour, anti-alcohol injury, cardiovascular and oestrogenic activities.Conclusions: As an important traditional Chinese medicine, Belamcanda chinensis has been demonstrated to have marked bioactivity, especially in the respiratory system and as an oestrogenic and hepatoprotective agent. This activity is related to its traditional use and provides opportunities for the development of novel drugs and therapeutic products for various diseases. However, the toxicity of Belamcanda chinensis will require further study, and more attention should be devoted to its better utilization.Keywords: Belamcanda chinensis; Ethnopharmacology; Phytochemistry; Pharmacology; Toxicology

Graphical abstract Lonicera japonica has been used for thousands of years in China. Now, more than 140 chemical compounds have been isolated; and studies show Lonicera japonica possesses wide pharmacological actions. Meanwhile, it could be used as healthy food, ornamental groundcover, etc., Ethnopharmacological relevance Lonicera japonica Thunb. (Caprifoliaceae), a widely used traditional Chinese medicine, was known as Jin Yin Hua (Chinese: ), Ren Dong and Japanese honeysuckle. It was taken to treat the exopathogenic wind-heat, epidemic febrile diseases, sores, carbuncles and some infectious diseases. At the same time, Lonicera japonica could be used as healthy food, cosmetics, ornamental groundcover, and so on. Aim of the review The present paper reviewed the ethnopharmacology, the biological activities, toxicology and phytochemistry of Lonicera japonica. Materials and methods Information on Lonicera japonica was gathered via the Internet (using Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Elsevier, ACS, Medline Plus, CNKI and Web of Science) and libraries. Additionally, information also was obtained from some local books and brilliant scholars on ethnopharmacology. Results More than 140 chemical compounds have been isolated, and the main compositions are essential oils, organic acids and flavones, etc. Lonicera japonica and its active principles possess wide pharmacological actions, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities. Conclusions As an important traditional Chinese medicine, further studies on Lonicera japonica can lead to the development of new drugs and therapeutics for various diseases, and how to utilize it better should be paid more attentions.

The small boat shaped seeds of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) has been used for many medicinal and culinary purposes from the ancient time in the various countries. Cumin is a popular spice in the world from Latin America to Northern Africa and all over the Asia and also used as a flavoring agent in many products such as cheese, pickle, soup, bean dishes or liqueurs. Essential oils of the seeds are also used as a flavor or in aromatherapy. Many pharmacological effects have been reported from this spicy plant as, anti-diabetic, Immunologic, anti-epileptic, anti-tumor and antimicrobial activities. Cumin used in the medicinal preparations is supposed to be produced with high quality encompasses all the properties of the final product which makes it optimal suitable for use. Reproducible quality is a goal, which achieved by the process of standardization. The focus here is rather on harvesting and processing of the cultivated species, because the quality of plant material and processing technology lead to the high quality of the final product. The quality of Cumin seeds and its essential oil can only be assessed with analytical methods, which include physical, microscopic and chemical analyzing assays. In this paper, the phytochemistry, medicinal properties and the standards from the field cultivation, harvesting and storage until marketing are reviewed.

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam, commonly known as the jackfruit tree and belonging to the family Moraceae, is an exotic tree originally native to the Western Ghats of India. The fruits are of dietary use and are an important source of carbohydrate, protein, fat, minerals and vitamins. The heart wood is a very durable timber and is used in the preparation of furniture. The bark, roots, leaves, and fruit are attributed with diverse medicinal properties and are used in the various traditional and folk systems of medicine to treat a range of ailments. Preclinical studies have shown that jackfruit possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticariogenic, antifungal, antineoplastic, hypoglycemic, wound healing effects and causes a transient decrease in the sexual activity. Clinical studies have also shown that the decoction of the leaves possesses hypoglycemic effects in both healthy individuals and non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Phytochemical studies have shown that jackfruit contains useful compounds like the flavonoids, sterols and prenylflavones which may have been responsible for the various pharmacological properties. The present paper reviews the nutritional value, culinary uses, the phytochemical compounds, traditional usage and validated pharmacological properties of jackfruit.

Garcinia indica Choisy Syn Brindonia indica, commonly known as kokum and belonging to Guttiferae family, is a plant native to certain regions of India. The trees yield fruits annually in the summer season during the months of March to May. The fruits are green when raw and red to dark purple when fully ripe. They are used to prepare juice, pickles and as acidulant in curries. In the traditional Indian system of medicine the Ayurveda and in various folk systems of medicine, the fruit rinds and leaves are used to treat various inflammatory ailments, rheumatic pain and bowel complaints. The kokum butter prepared from the seed is of both commercial and medicinal use. Chemical studies have shown that the rind contains protein, tannin, pectin, sugars, fat, organic acids like (−)-hydroxycitric acid, hydroxycitric acid lactone and citric acid; the anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-sambubioside; and the polyisoprenylated phenolics garcinol and isogarcinol. Preclinical studies have shown that kokum or and some of its phytochemicals possess antibacterial, antifungal, anti-ulcerogenic, cardioprotective, anticancer, chemopreventive, free radical scavenging, antioxidant and anti-obesity effects. The present paper reviews the nutritional value, the phytochemical compounds, traditional uses and validated pharmacological properties of kokum.

Ekebergia capensis is an integral part of indigenous pharmacopeia in tropical Africa. The present study critically reviewed the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of E. capensis. The keywords including E. capensis, its synonyms, English common names, ethnomedicinal uses, and phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of the species were searched using electronic databases such as ISI web of knowledge, ProQuest, science direct, OATD, Scopus, Open-thesis, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Pre-electronic literature of conference papers, scientific articles, books, book chapters, dissertations, and theses was carried out at the University Library. Literature studies revealed that E. capensis is mainly used as herbal medicine against fever and malaria, gastrointestinal problems, pain, parasitic worms, reproductive problems in women, respiratory problems, and skin diseases. Phytochemical compounds identified from the species include alkaloids, anthraquinones, coumarins, flavonoids, glycoflavonoids, glycosides, iridoids, limonoids, polyphenols, phytosteroids, pregnane, saponins, tannins, and withanolides. Pharmacological studies revealed that E. capensis extracts and compounds have acetylcholinesterase-inhibitory, analgesic and anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antifungal, antigonococcal, antimycobacterial, antimycoplasmal, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antimalarial and antiplasmodial, antischistosomal, antitrypanosomal, and antiviral and cytotoxicity activities. Although pharmacological evaluations carried out so far have confirmed the potency of E. capensis crude extracts and compounds, detailed studies are required aimed at establishing the efficacy, clinical relevance, safety, and mechanisms of action of the plant extracts and compounds.

Medicinal plants have been identified and used throughout human history for treating various diseases. Plants belonging to genus Aglaia have been used in traditional system of medicine. The genus Aglaia is a member of Meliaceae family. The plants belonging to this genus have various biological activities including antipyretic, astringent, antidiarrheal, antidysenteric, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity and are also used in treating skin diseases and tumors. The phytochemistry and the various biological activities of Aglaia sp. such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and nanoparticle activity are discussed in this review paper.

Dicoma anomala is used as herbal medicine to treat and manage fever, coughs, colds, sore throats, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, intestinal worms, and sexually transmitted infections in tropical Africa. The aim of this study was to summarize the research that has been done on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of D. anomala in tropical Africa. The literature search for information on ethnomedicinal uses and pharmacological activities of D. anomala was undertaken using databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, BioMed Central, PubMed, and Springer link. Other relevant literature sources included books, book chapters, websites, theses, conference papers, and other scientific publications. This study showed that D. anomala is used as herbal medicine in 57.1% of the countries in tropical Africa where it is indigenous. The species is used to treat 66 and five human and animal diseases, respectively. Several classes of secondary metabolites including acetylenic compounds, diterpene, flavonoids, phenols, phytosterols, saponins, sesquiterpenes, tannins and triterpenes have been isolated from D. anomala. Different aqueous and organic extracts of D. anomala exhibited anthelmintic, anticancer, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiplasmodial, and hepatoprotective activities. The documented information on the botany, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of D. anomala provide baseline data required for further ethnopharmacological studies on the species.

Cotula cinerea Del. belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is widely used in the traditional medicinal system for the treatment of various ailments such as colic, cough, diarrhea, digestive disorders, rheumatism, urinary and pulmonary infections, fever and headaches. Cotula cinerea contains a wide range of phytochemical compounds such as saponins, essential oils, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids. This paper reviews information pertaining its traditional uses, phytochemistry and biological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, herbicidal, anti-diarrheal and analgesic properties. It is hoped that the information presented here might stimulate further studies that will possibly lead to development of therapeutic agents from this plant. Keywords: Asteraceae, Cotula cinerea , Traditional uses, Phytochemistry, Biological activities

As pesquisas realizadas a partir de recursos genéticos de espécies medicinais nativas somente serão aplicadas se o material genético estiver seguro quanto à sobrevivência e disponibilidade. O objetivo deste artigo foi realizar uma revisão bibliográfica adotando como critério a escolha de artigos publicados em conceituadas revistas nacionais e internacionais, que permitissem melhor entendimento dos aspectos etnobotânicos, ecológicos e químicos de importante planta medicinal e aromática: Siparuna guianensis Aublet. Como tem sido apontada como uma das espécies prioritárias de conservação para a região do cerrado brasileiro, os estudos da propagação devem ser incentivados para que este recurso genético esteja disponível às gerações futuras.Studies with genetic resources of native medicinal species will only be applied if their genetic material is safe regarding survival and availability. The aim of this study was to do a literature review adopting as criterion the choice of papers published in renowned national and international journals to allow better understanding on ethnobotanical, ecological and chemical aspects of an important medicinal and aromatic plant, Siparuna guianensis Aublet. Since the latter has been considered one of the major species for the conservation of Brazilian cerrado, studies on its propagation should be encouraged in order to make this genetic resource available to future generations.

As pesquisas realizadas a partir de recursos genéticos de espécies medicinais nativas somente serão aplicadas se o material genético estiver seguro quanto à sobrevivência e disponibilidade. O objetivo deste artigo foi realizar uma revisão bibliográfica adotando como critério a escolha de artigos publicados em conceituadas revistas nacionais e internacionais, que permitissem melhor entendimento dos aspectos etnobotânicos, ecológicos e químicos de importante planta medicinal e aromática: Siparuna guianensis Aublet. Como tem sido apontada como uma das espécies prioritárias de conservação para a região do cerrado brasileiro, os estudos da propagação devem ser incentivados para que este recurso genético esteja disponível às gerações futuras. Studies with genetic resources of native medicinal species will only be applied if their genetic material is safe regarding survival and availability. The aim of this study was to do a literature review adopting as criterion the choice of papers published in renowned national and international journals to allow better understanding on ethnobotanical, ecological and chemical aspects of an important medicinal and aromatic plant, Siparuna guianensis Aublet. Since the latter has been considered one of the major species for the conservation of Brazilian cerrado, studies on its propagation should be encouraged in order to make this genetic resource available to future generations.

Diospyros lycioides Desf. (D. lycioides) is traditionally used as herbal medicine against various human and animal ailments in tropical Africa. The present paper reviewed information on botany, medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of D. lycioides. This review was compiled using scientific literature from electronic search engine such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, BioMed Central, Scielo, Medline and Science domain. Additional literatures were obtained from book chapters, books, dissertations, websites and other scientific publications. D. lycioides is used as traditional medicine in 50% of the countries where the species is native in tropical Africa. This study recorded 22 medicinal uses of D. lycioides which included abdominal pains, infertility in women, sexually transmitted infections, and used as chewing sticks (or mouthwash), toothbrushes and ethnoveterinary medicine. D. lycioides extracts demonstrated anti-adhesive, anti-inflammatory, antimetastatic, antioxidant, antifungal, antiproliferative, mutagenicity and antibacterial activities. Future research should focus on the pharmacological properties, phytochemistry, clinical trials and pharmacokinetics of D. lycioides which will enhance the therapeutic potential of the species.

The genus Aesculus L. (Hippocastanaceae) has 12 species distributed in eastern Asia, eastern and western North America, and Europe. In Europe and the United States, A. hippocastanum has been used for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, hemorrhoids, and postoperative edema. In China, A. chinensis var. chinense has been used as a stomachic and analgesic in the treatment of distention and pain in the chest and the abdomen, malaria, dysentery, and heart disease. The objective of this paper is to review the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of the genus Aesculus. To date, more than 210 compounds have been isolated and identified primarily from the fruits or seeds of Aesculus, with polyhydroxylated triterpenoid saponins as the major active principles. Studies have confirmed that Aesculus seed extracts and isolates possess diverse activities, including anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, antifungal, antiangiogenic (vascular protection), anti-obesity, antioxidative, and antigenotoxic properties. Interestingly, detailed stud- ies of the saponins from more eastern North American species and other uninvestigated Aesculus species are necessary to further confirm the chemotaxonomic value of the novel cytotoxic saponins discovered recently from A. pavia, an eastern North American species, and to fully understand the chemical profile of the genus. Animal investigations of these novel cytotoxic saponins on the potential for the treatment of cancer are also intriguing.

The numerous uses of the grapevine fruit, especially for wine and beverages, have made it one of the most important plants worldwide. The phytochemistry of grapevine is rich in a wide range of compounds. Many of them are renowned for their numerous medicinal uses. The production of grapevine metabolites is highly conditioned by many factors like environment or pathogen attack. Some grapevine phytoalexins have gained a great deal of attention due to their antimicrobial activities, being also involved in the induction of resistance in grapevine against those pathogens. Meanwhile grapevine biotechnology is still evolving, thanks to the technological advance of modern science, and biotechnologists are making huge efforts to produce grapevine cultivars of desired characteristics. In this paper, important metabolites from grapevine and grape derived products like wine will be reviewed with their health promoting effects and their role against certain stress factors in grapevine physiology.

WOS: 000247835800002, The volatile constituents of five species of the medicinally and ornamentally valuable genus Hypericurn L. (St. John's Wort; Clusiaceae), with native distributions in Africa and the Mediterranean regions of Europe and Asia, were examined as part of our continuing research on the phytochemistry of Hypericum. The dried and ground aerial material of flowering plants was subjected to microdistillation to isolate volatile compounds, which were subsequently analyzed by GC/MS. The major constituent(s) of H. balearicum were (x-pinene (28.5%), beta-pinene (20.4%), and beta-eudesmol (11.2%); of H. delphicum were caryophyllene oxide (31.5%), beta-caryophyflene (18.2%), and undecane (17.5%); of H. roeperanum was gamma-curcumene (15.6%); of H. aegypticum ssp. aegypticum was ishwarane (14.4%); and of H. aegypticum ssp. marrocanum were caryophyllene oxide (29.2%) and beta-caryophyllene (15.1%). This paper represents the first report, to our knowledge, of volatile constituents for these species.

Antibacterial compound from methanol fraction of methylene dichloride extract of pelawan bark had been studied. Pelawan bark was extracted using ethanol 95% and CH 2 Cl 2 -water (1:1), respectively. Extract of CH 2 Cl 2 was partitioned using hexane-methanol 90% (1:1). Afterwards, methanol fraction was analyzed by thin layer chromatography methods to find the best eluent for column chromatography. The best eluent came from mixture of acetone-chloroform-methanol (0,6:4:0,4). The fractionation yielded 16 fractions with the first (M 1 ) and the third (M 5 ) fractions became the one spotted fractions. M 1 and M 5 fractions were examined for their antibacterial activity using paper diffusion methods by determining minimum inhibitory concentration value. M 1 fraction showed greater activity than M 5 fraction with minimum inhibitory concentration value of 2,7857 mg/mL. The result of phytochemistry test showed that both fractions contain terpenoid.

Global climate change includes concomitant changes in many components of the abiotic flux necessary for plant life. In this paper, we investigate the combined effects of elevated CO2 (720 ppm) and temperature (+2 K) on the phytochemistry of three deciduous tree species. The analysis revealed that elevated CO(2) generally stimulated increased carbon partitioning to various classes of phenolic compounds, whereas an increase in temperature had the opposite effect. The combined effects of both elevated CO2 and temperature were additive, i.e., canceling one another's individual effects. Obviously, the effects of global climate change on leaf chemistry must simultaneously consider both temperature and CO2. If these results are generally applicable, then the counteracting effect of the temperature is likely to play a major role in alpine, boreal, and arctic zones in determining the balance between populations of plants and herbivores.

Ayurveda, the system of traditional medicine from India, holds that ‘Rasa’, a concept roughly corresponding to taste, is a basis for identifying pharmacological properties of plants and other materia medica used in Dravyaguna—its system of phytomedicine. This idea has recently found support in studies of ibuprofen, the pharmacological properties of which are similar to those of oleocanthal, because the two substances have very similar tastes. This paper discusses a possible scientific approach to understanding the Ayurvedic (hypo)thesis in terms of the stereochemical basis of both pharamaco-activity and taste, and the numbers of possible pharmaco-active compounds that ‘Rasa’ may be able to distinguish. We conclude that molecules binding to a specific enzyme active site should have their own ‘Rasa’, and that the number of different subjectively experienced ‘tastes’ is more than enough to distinguish between molecular shapes binding to all enzyme active sites in the body.

Ethnopharmacological relevance There are more than 3000 officially documented plants in the Indian subcontinent that hold great medicinal potential. One such under-explored plant is an evergreen tropical tree Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) Bosser (Rubiaceae). It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world and has therapeutic potential against many diseases such as diabetes, anaemia, stomatitis, leprosy, cancer and infectious diseases. Neolamarckia cadamba has historical existence in India and it is mentioned in mythical stories. There are several reports on medicinal values of root, bark and leaves of N. cadamba; but the literature on its fruits is scanty. Therefore, the present review aims to provide updated comprehensive information on the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of different parts of N. cadamba tree with special reference to its fruit, in order to open new perspectives for future food and pharmacological research. Materials and methods A literature search was performed on N. cadamba using ethnobotanical textbooks, published articles in peer-reviewed journals, unpublished materials, government survey reports and scientific databases such as Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar and other web search engines (Google, Yahoo). The Plant List, International Plant Name Index and Kew Botanical Garden Plant name databases were used to validate the scientific names. Results and discussion Neolamarckia cadamba is one of the economically important trees, which is being exploited for paper, pulp and wood industry. In folk medicine, various parts of N. cadamba are used in the treatment of various ailments such as fever, uterine complaints, blood diseases, skin diseases, tumour, anaemia, eye inflammation and diarrhoea. Other reported uses of N. cadamba include antihepatotoxic, antimalarial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, diuretic and laxative. Various phytochemicals such as cadambine and its derivatives (dihydrocadambine and isodihydrocadambine) and indole alkaloids (Neolamarckines) were isolated from the leaves; whereas the presence of quinovic acid derivatives have been reported in the bark of N. cadamba. Conclusion The present review compiles information on an ethnopharmacologically useful plant N. cadamba. Bioactive compounds responsible for its various medicinal properties and their effects at the molecular level need to be investigated in more detail. Furthermore, the detailed study of toxicity and pharmacological properties of extracts as well as molecules in N. cadamba is required to confirm the ethnomedicinal claims of N. cadamba for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, known as Dang Gui (in Chinese), is a traditional medicinal and edible plant that has long been used for tonifying, replenishing, and invigorating blood as well as relieving pain, lubricating the intestines, and treating female irregular menstruation and amenorrhea. A. sinensis has also been used as a health product and become increasingly popular in China, Japan, and Korea. Aim of the review This paper aims to provide a systemic review of traditional uses of A. sinensis and its recent advances in the fields of phytochemistry, analytical methods and toxicology. In addition, possible trends, therapeutic potentials, and perspectives for future research of this plant are also briefly discussed. Materials and methods An extensive review of the literature was conducted, and electronic databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Reaxys were used to assemble the data. Ethnopharmacological literature and digitalised sources of academic libraries were also systematically searched. In addition, information was obtained from local books and The Plant List (TPL, www.theplantlist.org). Result This study reviews the progress in chemical analysis of A. sinensis and its preparations. Previously and newly established methods, including spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography (GC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ultra-performance liquid chromatography(UPLC), and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis (NMR), are summarized. Moreover, identified bioactive components such as polysaccharides, ligustilide and ferulic acid were reviewed, along with analytical methods for quantitative and qualitative determination of target analytes, and fingerprinting authentication, quality evaluation of A. sinensis, and toxicology and pharmacodynamic studies. Scientific reports on crude extracts and pure compounds and formulations revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory activity, antifibrotic action, antispasmodic activity, antioxidant activities, and neuroprotective action, as well as cardio- and cerebrovascular effects. Conclusions Within the published scientific literature are numerous reports regarding analytical methods that use various chromatographic and spectrophotometric technologies to monitor various types of components with different physicochemical properties simultaneously. This review discusses the reasonable selection of marker compounds based on high concentrations, analytical methods, and commercial availabilities with the goal of developing quick, accurate, and applicable analytical approaches for quality evaluation and establishing harmonised criteria for the analysis of A. sinensis and its finished products. Compounds isolated from A. sinensis are abundant sources of chemical diversity, from which we can discover active molecules. Thus, more studies on the pharmacological mechanisms of the predominant active compounds of A. sinensis are needed. In addition, given that A. sinensis is one of the most popular traditional herbal medicines, its main therapeutic aspects, toxicity, and adverse effects warrant further investigation in the future.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine known as Sanqi or Tianqi in China. This plant, which is distributed primarily in the southwest of China, has wide-ranging pharmacological effects and can be used to treat cardiovascular diseases, pain, inflammation and trauma as well as internal and external bleeding due to injury. Aims of the review This paper provides up-to-date information on investigations of this plant, including its botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. The possible uses and perspectives for future investigation of this plant are also discussed. Materials and methods The relevant information on Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen was collected from numerous resources, including classic books about Chinese herbal medicine, and scientific databases, including Pubmed, SciFinder, ACS, Ebsco, Elsevier, Taylor, Wiley and CNKI. Results More than 200 chemical compounds have been isolated from Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen, including saponins, flavonoids and cyclopeptides. The plant has pharmacological effects on the cardiovascular system, immune system as well as anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, haemostatic and anti -tumour activities, etc. Conclusions Panax notoginseng is a valuable traditional Chinese medical herb with multiple pharmacological effects. This review summarizes the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of P. notoginseng , and presents the constituents and their corresponding chemical structures found in P. notoginseng comprehensively for the first time. Future research into its phytochemistry of bio-active components should be performed by using bioactivity-guided isolation strategies. Further work on elucidation of the structure-function relationship among saponins, understanding of multi-target network pharmacology of P. notoginseng , as well as developing its new clinical usage and comprehensive utilize will enhance the therapeutic potentials of P. notoginseng.

Ethnopharmacological relevance The genus Boerhavia is widely distributed in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions of the world including Mexico, America, Africa, Asia, Indian Ocean Islands, Pacific Islands and Australia. The genus Boerhavia is extensively used by local peoples and medicinal practitioners for treatments of hepatitis, urinary disorders, gastro intestinal diseases, inflammations, skin problems, infectious diseases and asthma. Present review focused on traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of Boerhavia genus to support potential scope for advance ethnopharmacological study. Materials and methods Information on the Boerhavia species was collected from classical books on medicinal plants, pharmacopoeias and scientific databases like PubMed, Scopus, GoogleScholar, Web of Science and others. Also scientific literatures based on ethnomedicinal surveys, Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations, published papers from Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, Springer, ACS as well as Wiley publishers and reports by government bodies and documentations were assessed. Results A total of 180 compounds from Boerhavia genus were isolated of which B. diffusa alone shared around 131 compounds and for most of which it is currently an exclusive source. In the genus, phenolic glycosides and flavonoids contribute approximately 97 compounds. These includes eupalitin, rotenoids like boeravinones, coccineons, alkaloid i.e. betanin and punarnavine etc., showing vital pharmaceutical activities such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory. Conclusion Boerhavia is an important genus with wide range of medicinal uses. However, most of the available scientific literatures have lacked relevant doses, duration and positive controls for examining bioefficacy of extracts and its active compounds. In some studies, taxonomic errors were encountered. Moreover, there is need for accurate methods in testing the safety and ethnomedicinal validity of Boerhavia species.

Oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathogenesis of different serious chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, etc. Recent research has been focused on the beneficial role of dietary antioxidants against oxidative stress both under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Theobroma cacao L. (cacao tree) is an evergreen tree which is native to South America. It is a plant of great economic importance and its seeds are commonly used to produce cocoa powder and chocolate. In addition to its uses in food industry, cocoa is a rich source of polyphenolic antioxidants. There is a plethora of in vitro and in vivo studies that report cocoa antioxidant capacity. The protective activity of cocoa seems to be due to its phytochemical constituents, especially catechins. However, bioavailability of cocoa polyphenolic constituents following oral administration is very low (nanomolar concentrations). In the present paper, we critically reviewed the available literature on the antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of cocoa and its polyphenolic constituents. In addition to these, we provide brief information about cultivation, phytochemistry, bioavailability and clinical impacts of cocoa.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Sophora flavescens (Fabaceae), also known as Kushen (Chinese: 苦参), has been an important species in Chinese medicine since the Qin and Han dynasties. The root of Sophora flavescens has a long history in the traditional medicine of many countries, including China, Japan, Korea, India and some countries in Europe. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Sophora flavescens has been used extensively, mainly in combination with other medicinal plants in prescriptions to treat fever, dysentery, hematochezia, jaundice, oliguria, vulvar swelling, asthma, eczema, inflammatory disorders, ulcers and diseases associated with skin burns. The aim of this review is to provide updated and comprehensive information regarding the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biological activities and toxicology of Sophora flavescens and to discuss possible trends and opportunities for further research on Sophora flavescens . Materials and methods We systematically searched major scientific databases (PubMed, Elsevier, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, Medline Plus, ACS, “ Da Yi Yi Xue Sou Suo ( http://www.dayi100.com/login.jsp )”, China Knowledge Resource Integrated (CNKI) and Web of Science) for information published between 1958 and 2015 on Sophora flavescens . Information was also acquired from local classic herbal literature, conference papers, government reports, and PhD and MSc dissertations. Results The broad spectrum of biological activities associated with Sophora flavescens has been considered a valuable resource in both traditional and modern medicine. Extracts are taken either orally or by injection. More than 200 compounds have been isolated from Sophora flavescens , and the major components have been identified as flavonoids and alkaloids. Recent in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that at least 50 pure compounds and crude extracts from Sophora flavescens possess wide-ranging antitumor, antimicrobial, antipyretic, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory pharmacological abilities. The anticancer and anti-infection abilities of these components are especially attractive areas for research. Conclusions Sophora flavescens is a promising traditional medicine, but there is a need for more precise studies to test the safety and clinical value of its main active crude extracts and pure compounds and to clarify their mechanisms of action. Moreover, some existing studies have lacked systematic methods and integration with the existing literature, and some of the experiments were isolated, used small sample sizes and were unreliable. More validated data are therefore required.

The major challenge of this paper comprises an attempt to compare the wealth of folk-information based on “traditional knowledge” with the efficacy of a chemo-biological background based on scientific knowledge. Surprisingly, correlations between plant uses (as food and medicine) and evolutionary status according to morphology (as assigned by Sporne indices) and metabolism (as assigned by diversity of phytochemicals) obey strikingly uniform systematic and evolutionary trends. The resulting patterns suggest a dynamic chemical mechanism for the bioactivity in plants regulated by the antagonistic gallate/caffeate pair. This finding is an important step toward the construction of a coherent chemo-biological language by a dynamic holistic quantitative methodology, one of the most potent prospects for understanding the functioning of nature.

This paper presents a program emphasizing ethnopharmacological approaches that could allow great success in the study of medicinal plants. The minimum ethnopharmacological research team should consist of a botanist, a chemist and a pharmacologist with each carrying the responsibility for answering in sequential fashion critical questions. The chemical composition and pharmacological properties of the very efficient medicinal plant Croton cajucara were investigated according to ethnopharmacological approaches. The study with this Croton proved to be both efficient and successful. This happy situation was only possible because a multidisciplinary team was involved getting the research done correctly. The ethnopharmacological study involving one other especies Copaifera will be cited.

This paper is intended to review advances in the botanical, phytochemical, traditional uses and pharmacological studies of the genus Trachelospermum. Until now, 138 chemical constituents have been isolated and characterized from these plants, particularly from T. asiaticum and T. jasminoides. Among these compounds, lignans, triterpenoids, and flavonoids are the major bioactive constituents. Studies have shown that plants from the genus Trachelospermum exhibit an extensive range of pharmacological properties both in vivo and in vitro, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antitumor, antiviral and antibacterial activities. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) culture, drugs that include T. jasminoides stems have been used to cure rheumatism, gonarthritis, backache and pharyngitis, although there are few reports concerning the clinical use and toxicity of these plants. Further attention should be paid to gathering information about their toxicology data, quality-control measures, and the clinical value of the active compounds from genus Trachelospermum.

Angelica archangelica Linn.(Garden angelica) has traditionally used in Indian system and Chinese system of medicines. In Ayurveda, it is known as Chanda and exhibits the therapeutic actions as it pacifying Vata and Kaphadosha. It is tall perennial herb mainly found in Himalayan region of India. It is only Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) with a Nordic origin. The plant is widely used in traditional and folk medicine as a remedy for nervous headaches, fever, skin rashes, wounds, rheumatism, and toothaches and epilepsy. The root of A. archangelica is internally used for gastric ulcers, anorexia, migraine, bronchitis, chronic fatigue, menstrual and obstetric complaints. It has number of biological activities like antimutagenic, antiulcerogenic, hepatoprotective, antiproliferative, antitumour, cytotoxic and anxiolytic effect. Various phytoconstiteunts were found in plant, but most abundant phytoconstituents are essential oils and furocoumarins in various part of plant. The main components of its essential oils are α-pinene, β-phellandrene, limonene, α-phellandrene, 3-carene and p-cymene and most abundant furocoumarins are archangelicin, angelicin, bergapten, imperatorin and xanthotoxin. Garden angelica has as a unique scent that is found in all parts of the plant which is used since ancient time as flavouring, confectionary and perfumes. The plant is good source of furocoumarins, which provides examples of their versatility in a range of applications in the fields of biology and pharmacology. The paper explained the evidence-based information regarding phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, traditional and medicinal uses of this plant.

Since ancient times, plants have been an exemplary source of medicine. Researchers have discovered some important compounds from plants. The present work constitutes a review of the medicinal plants whose immunomodulant activity has been proven. We performed PUBMED, EMBASE, Google scholar searches for research papers of medicinal plants having immunomodulant activity. Medicinal plants used by traditional physicians or reported as having immunomodulant activity include Acacia concocinna, Camellia sinensis, Lawsonia inermis Linn, Piper longum Linn, Gelidium amansii, Petroselinum crispum, Plantago major and Allium sativum. Immunomodulant activities of some of these medicinal plants have been investigated. The medicinal plants documented have immunomodulant activity and should be further investigated via clinical trial.

Any agent with the ability to provoke sexual desire in an individual is referred to as an aphrodisiac. Aphrodisiac plants are used in the management of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. One such plant popular in West and Central Africa among the Pygmies of Cameroon, Ipassa of Garbon, and the Yoruba, Ibo, Efik and Ijaw peoples of Nigeria is Carpolobia. It is an accepted and commonly utilized herbal booster of libido. It is used to cure male infertility and to boosts libido thereby augmenting male sexual functions or it is used to induce penile erection, and enhance male virility. The chewing stick prepared from the stem and root of either Carpolobia alba (CA) or Carpolobia lutea (CL) is patronized because it boosts male sexual performance. The genus Carpolobia has over 14 species. The leaf essential oil contains a variety of terpenoids, while polyphenols and triterpenoid saponins have been isolated from the root and leaf extracts respectively. Other ethnomedicinal uses include curing of stomach ailments, rheumatism, fever, pains, insanity, dermal infection, venereal diseases; to promote child birth; and as a taeniafuge and vermifuge. In spite of its popularity, no scientific data reviewing the biopharmacological and phytochemical activities of Carpolobia exist to our knowledge. The aim of this work is to collate all available published scientific reports in the literature on Carpolobia in a review paper. In this review, an overview of the morphology, taxonomy, ethnomedicinal claims, geographical distribution, and structurally elucidated compounds that are secondary metabolites isolated and characterized from Carpolobia species is established. The pharmacological assays, phytochemical screenings, and toxicological reports are also reviewed.

Background Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease associated with extensive mortality and morbidity. The treatment for leishmaniasis is currently based on pentavalent antimonials and amphotericin B; however, these drugs result in numerous adverse side effects. Natural compounds have been used as novel treatments for parasitic diseases. In this paper, we evaluated the effect of (-)-epigallocatechin 3-O-gallate (EGCG) on Leishmania braziliensis in vitro and in vivo and described the mechanism of EGCG action against L. braziliensis promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. Methodology/Principal Finding In vitro activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) measurements were determined during the promastigote and intracellular amastigote life stages. The effect of EGCG on mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was assayed using JC-1, and intracellular ATP concentrations were measured using a luciferin-luciferase system. The in vivo experiments were performed in infected BALB/c mice orally treated with EGCG. EGCG reduced promastigote viability and the infection index in a time- and dose-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 278.8 µM and 3.4 µM, respectively, at 72 h and a selectivity index of 149.5. In addition, EGCG induced ROS production in the promastigote and intracellular amastigote, and the effects were reversed by polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase. Additionally, EGCG reduced ΔΨm, thereby decreasing intracellular ATP concentrations in promastigotes. Furthermore, EGCG treatment was also effective in vivo, demonstrating oral bioavailability and reduced parasitic loads without altering serological toxicity markers. Conclusions/Significance In conclusion, our study demonstrates the leishmanicidal effects of EGCG against the two forms of L. braziliensis, the promastigote and amastigote. In addition, EGCG promotes ROS production as a part of its mechanism of action, resulting in decreased ΔΨm and reduced intracellular ATP concentrations. These actions ultimately culminate in parasite death. Furthermore, our data suggest that EGCG is orally effective in the treatment of L. braziliensis-infected BALB/c mice without altering serological toxicity markers., Author Summary Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease that is endemic in 88 countries, primarily located in tropical and subtropical regions, that affects more than 12 million people worldwide. Leishmaniasis treatments are currently based on pentavalent antimonials and amphotericin B; however, these drugs result in numerous adverse side effects and variable efficacy. In addition, the drugs are expensive, and parasite resistance to these drugs has been observed. The lack of affordable therapy necessitates the development of novel antileishmanial therapies. We investigated the antileishmanial activity of EGCG in vitro and in vivo and described the mechanism of EGCG action against Leishmania braziliensis promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. EGCG reduced promastigote viability and the infection index in a time- and dose-dependent manner with a selectivity index of 149.5. This effect was reversed by polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase, suggesting that ROS production is a mechanism of action in promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. Additionally, EGCG reduced ΔΨm and intracellular ATP concentrations in promastigotes. Furthermore, EGCG treatment was also effective in vivo, demonstrating oral bioavailability and reduced lesion sizes and parasitic load (92% of reduction) without altering serological toxicity markers. Additional studies should be conducted to determine the ideal dose and therapeutic regimen.

Ethnopharmacological relevance The Epilobium genus (willowherb) comprises of ca. 200 species of herbaceous plants distributed around the world. Infusions prepared form willowherbs have been traditionally used externally in skin and mucosa infections and in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia. Nowadays extracts from different Epilobium species are widely used by patients, however the lack of clinical studies does not allow to fully establish their efficacy. The present review summarizes published data on phytochemistry, ethnopharmacological use and pharmacological studies concerning willowherb species investigated throughout past few decades. Materials and methods Literature survey was performed using Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Reaxys databases looking for papers and patents focused on chemical composition and bioactivity of Epilobium species. Systematic research in ethnopharmacological literature in digitalized sources of academic libraries was also carried out. Result The chemical composition of different Epilobium species and their bioactivities are described. The detailed information on constituents isolated and detected by chromatographic methods is given. The studies show that polyphenols are main compounds occurring in Epilobium herb among which flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins (oenothein B and oenothein A) are dominating constituents. The extracts and some isolated compounds from Epilobium sp. were shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidative activities. Because many studies suggest that oenothein B as dominating constituent may be responsible for Epilobium sp. pharmacological effects, its documented bioactivities were also described. Conclusions The pharmacological studies performed on Epilobium justify the traditional use of this species in external and in gastrointestinal inflammations. As far as the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is considered, in the literature, there are some reports indicating that Epilobium extracts have a beneficial effect for this disorder, but the number of in vitro studies is not sufficient and the in vivo studies are not conclusive or too preliminary to draw a final conclusion about the efficacy of Epilobium preparations. More in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies to confirm this mode of action are strongly needed. Epilobium’s extracts have also documented antioxidative and potential anti-inflammatory properties. Oenothein B can be considered as responsible for some of Epilobium pharmacological properties. Because of the lack of clinical data further studies are needed to provide an evidence base for traditional uses of plant materials belonging to the Epilobium genus.

In this paper, the electrochemical behavior of myricetin on a gold nanoparticle/ethylenediamine/multi-walled carbon-nanotube modified glassy carbon electrode (AuNPs/en/MWCNTs/GCE) has been investigated. Myricetin effectively accumulated on the AuNPs/en/MWCNTs/GCE and caused a pair of irreversible redox peaks at around 0.408 V and 0.191 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) in 0.1 mol L−1 phosphate buffer solution (pH 3.5) for oxidation and reduction reactions respectively. The heights of the redox peaks were significantly higher on AuNPs/en/MWNTs/GCE compare with MWCNTs/GC and there was no peak on bare GC. The electron-transfer reaction for myricetin on the surface of electrochemical sensor was controlled by adsorption. Some parameters including pH, accumulation potential, accumulation time and scan rate have been optimized. Under the optimum conditions, anodic peak current was proportional to myricetin concentration in the dynamic range of 5.0×10−8 to 4.0×10−5 mol L−1 with the detection limit of 1.2×10−8 mol L−1. The proposed method was successfully used for the determination of myricetin content in tea and fruit juices.

The clinically used extract (TΠ) of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f. give 19 new compounds, including five kaurane diterpenes (1–5), one manoyl oxide diterpene (6), and one abietane diterpene (7), three ursene triterpenes (8, 9 and 15), six oleanane triterpenes (10–13, 16 and 19), and three friedelane triterpenes (14, 17 and 18), as well as 15 known compounds (20–34). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopy and X-ray analysis. Based on the screening of isolated compounds and other compounds reported in previous papers [J. Nat. Prod. 62 (1999) 1522; J. Nat. Prod. (2001) in press; Phytochemistry 53 (2000) 805], we identified the main components that are responsible for the therapeutic effect of TΠ.

Vitex trifolia or locally known as lemuni, is well documented for its medicinal properties including anticancer, antibacterial and wound healing. For years, the leaves and flowers were consumed for anti-aging and general well-being. It is also commonly served as nutraceuticals to post-partum women during their confinement period. Previous study showed that V. trifolia possesses high antioxidant properties that could prevent oxidative stress related diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes and many more. From the literature, V. trifolia leaves are used as poultice for rheumatic pains, sprains, antithelmintics and inflammations. Meanwhile, the fruits are utilised in amenorrhea. The roots, on the other hand, are used for the treatment of cough and fever. The plant is known to possess pharmacologically-active constituents such as the essential oil, halimane-type diterpenes, flavonoids, triterpenes, lignans, iridoids and ecdysteroids. Review papers were consistently published to justify the non-exhaustive biological exploration of this genus. Nevertheless, only 11 per cent of the total Vitex species were phytochemically examined. Apart from being eaten raw or blanched, Vitex is also taken as a food colourant in preparing lemuni rice. The process of making lemuni rice is quite tedious. First, the leaves and flowers are picked and washed. Both parts are then ground with water and sieved to give a bluish extract which is then mixed with rice and boiled to cook. Hence, the Vitex pouch is introduced to provide an easy way to prepare lemuni rice. This packaging is designed to enclose Vitex samples in a pouch that simply can be placed together with rice and boiled to cook. Such instant preparation will hopefully promote the consumption of lemuni rice among busy locals. Future plans include international marketing and production of other Vitex nutritional products.

Verbascum thapsus L. [Khardhag or Common mullein], a member of the family Scrophulariaceae, is a famous herb that is found all over Europe, in temperate Asia, in North America and is well-reputed due to its medicinal properties. This medicinal herb contains various chemical constituents like saponins, iridoid and phenylethanoid glycosides, flavonoids, vitamin C and minerals. It is famous in various communities worldwide for the treatment of various disorders of both humans and animals aliments. A number of pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, antihepatotoxic and anti-hyperlipidemic activity have been ascribed to this plant. The plant is used to treat tuberculosis also, earache and bronchitis. In the present paper botanical and ethnomedicinal description, pharmacological profile and phytochemistry of this herb is being discussed. Keywords: Verbascum thapsus, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Ethnomedicinal, Scrophulariaceae

Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy (C. pluricaulis) is a perennial herb that seems like morning glory. All parts of the herb are known to possess therapeutic benefits. The plant is used locally in Indian and Chinese medicine to cure various diseases. It is used in Ayurvedic formulation for chronic cough, sleeplessness, epilepsy, hallucinations, anxiety etc. Based on the comprehensive review of plant profile, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, pharmacological and toxicological data on the C. pluricaulis, there will be more opportunities for the future research and development on the herb C. pluricaulis. Information on the C. pluricaulis was collected via electronic search (using Pub Med, SciFinder, Google Scholar and Web of Science) and library search for articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, information also was obtained from some local books on ethnopharmacology. This paper covers the literature, primarily pharmacological, from 1985 to the end of 2012. The C. pluricaulis is an important indigenous medicine, which has a long medicinal application for liver disease, epileptic disease, microbial disease, cytotoxic and viral diseases, central nervous system (CNS) disease in Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and other indigenous medical systems. The isolated metabolites and crude extract have exhibited a wide of in vitro and in vivo pharmacological effect, including CNS depression, anxiolytic, tranquillizing, antidepressant, antistress, neurodegenerative, antiamnesic, antioxidant, hypolipidemic, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antifungal, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiulcer, anticatatonic, and cardiovascular activity. A chemical study of this plant was then initiated, which led to the isolation of carbohydrats, proteins, alkaloids, fatty acids, steroids, coumarins, flavanoids, and glycosides as active chemicals that bring about its biological effects. A series of pharmacognostical studies of this plant show that it is a herb, its stem and leaves are hairy, more over it has two types of stomata, anisocytic and paracytic. A herb, C. pluricaulis has emerged as a good source of the traditional medicine for the treatment of liver disease, epileptic disease, microbial disease, cytotoxic and viral diseases, and CNS disease. Pharmacological results have validated the use of this species in traditional medicine. All the parts of the herb are known to possess therapeutic benefits. Expansion of research materials would provide more opportunities for the discovery of new bioactive principles from C. pluricaulis.