Search

Description of the subject. Prunella vulgaris L. (Lamiaceae) is an edible herb used in Europe and Asia as herbal tea, food, dietary supplement or medicinal plant since several centuries. Although the composition and properties of the aerial parts are well documented in the literature, Prunella vulgaris seeds have never been investigated. Objectives. The aim of this work was to characterize the composition of these seeds to assess not only their nutritional potential (protein, lipid and minerals content), but also their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential as well as their specialized metabolites composition. Method. The protein, lipids and mineral content were determined. The phenolic compounds were isolated; elucidation of their structures was done by means of HR-MS and one- and two-dimensional NMR analysis. They were then evaluated for their biological activity, together with seed extracts. Results. Omega-3 rich oil and an interesting amino acids profile were detected in the seeds as well as the presence of a high content of polyphenolic compounds, including two structurally new compounds (phenylpropane derivatives) which were isolated and structurally characterized. The two compounds described here for the first time, were named amolsamic acids A&B. The seeds and amolsamic acids showed an interesting antioxidant potential, and a strong anti-inflammatory activity on neutrophils, MPO and HRP models. Conclusions. These findings highlight the real health promoting potential of P. vulgaris seeds and make them a good candidate as super-food or food supplement.

The Dialium of the Guinean-Congolese region. A review Introduction. The present study provides a synthesis of current knowledge on the genus Dialium (Fabaceae, Dialioideae), focusing on the species of the Guinean-Congolese region. In particular, it examines the possibility of sustainably using the wood and sawing co-products of Dialium species in order to reduce the pressure on other hardwood species whose populations are declining. Literature. Although there is no consensus among botanists, the Dialium genus is known to include 44 species, 22 of which are endemic to the Guinean-Congolese region. The differences between species are sometimes tenuous, and descriptions are based on a limited number of individuals. Species living in rainforests have balanced population structures. Apart from their mode of dispersal, which is zoochorous, ecological knowledge of Dialium species is very incomplete. The lack of data on population dynamics is particularly problematic in the context of sustainable forest management. The physical, mechanical and biochemical properties of the wood of these plants have only been characterized for a limited number of species. Conclusions. By proposing a key for determining the Dialium species of the Guinean-Congolese region, this article has attempted to clarify the taxonomy, while raising the need for further genetic studies. In Central Africa, some species of the genus Dialium are locally abundant and seem to regenerate well. They offer many prospects for development because their wood is very durable and could contain molecules of interest. Future research should focus primarily on the demographic dynamics of these species and the properties of their wood.