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The present work aims to assess the biological potential of polyphenolic compounds in different parts (flowers, leaves, stems, and roots) of Stachys palustris L. Towards secondary metabolites profile, 89 polyphenolic compounds (PCs) were identified by UPLC-PDA-ESI-TQD-MS/MS, with a total average content of 6089 mg/100 g of dry matter (d.m.). In terms of biological activity, antioxidant activity (radical activity, reducing power), digestive enzyme inhibitory (α-glucosidase, α-amylase, pancreatic lipase) effect, and antiproliferative activity (inhibition of cell viability and induction of apoptosis in different human cancer cell lines) were explored. Leaves, flowers, stems, and roots of S. palustris L. have not been studied in this regard until now. Vescalagin and cocciferin d2, isoverbascoside (verbascoside), luteolin 6-C-glucoside, luteolin 6-C-galactoside, apigenin 6-C-glucoside, (−)-epicatechin, ellagic acid, and malvidin 3-O-diglucoside were detected as main ingredients in the studied parts. Methanolic extract of S. palustris L. leaves and flowers revealed the highest amount of PCs with the strongest antiradical (18.5 and 15.6 mmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/g d.m., respectively) and reducing power effects (7.3 and 5.6 mmol TE/g d.m.). Leaf extracts exhibited better α-amylase and pancreatic lipase inhibition effects, while flower extracts exhibited better α-glucosidase inhibition effect. Regarding antiproliferative activity, extracts of the leaves and flowers significantly reduced cell viability and induced a high level of apoptosis in human lung, pancreatic, bladder, and colon cancer cell lines, as well as in human acute myeloid leukemia; whereas the extracts from stems and roots revealed the weaker effects. The results of this work showed anti-proliferative and potentially anti-diabetic, anti-obesity properties of S. palustris L., especially for flowers and leaves, which may have wide potential applications in the functional food, special food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics industries, and/or in medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides its importance as an ornamental plant, Justicia betonica L. is also used as a medicinal plant for the treatment of several human disorders. However, the population size and abundance of the plant species are very low in Indian states, including West Bengal. The breeding system and pollination ecology of J. betonica are still unclear. Therefore, some reproductive aspects were investigated in order to provide important information for the sustainability of the species. The flowering duration spanned from December to May, with its peak in February–March. Flower opening time was much earlier (5.00–8.00 a.m.) on a hot day (in April–May) than on a cold day (10.00 a.m.–12.00 p.m. in December–January). The time of anther dehiscence coincided with the flower opening time; however, the stigma became receptive later. The plant species is self‐compatible but dependent on pollinators for fruit and seed sets. Members of different insect groups like ants, bees, butterflies, flies, moths and wasps visit the flowers. Among them, Allorhynchium metallicum and Halictus acrocephalus are the primary pollinators (based on the "relative pollinator service"). The plant species showed a significant pollination deficit (coefficient of pollination deficit [D] = 0.32) in the open condition. Larvae of the florivorous moth Gatesclarkeana erotias significantly reduced reproductive success by eating their floral parts, ovules and immature seeds. In conclusion, combining the pollination deficit and the feeding activity of phytophagous insects (moth larvae) may reduce the reproductive fitness of J. betonica in the study regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extracts obtained from different Betonica species have been shown to possess important biological properties. The present study aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity, antitumor and immunomodulatory potential of the endemic plant Betonica bulgarica (Lamiaceae) and thus, reveal new aspects of its biological activity. Methods: Methanolic extract obtained from inflorescences was analyzed for cytotoxicity against mammalian cell lines. The antitumor potential of the sample was determined using human cervical and lung adenocarcinoma cells (HeLa and A549). Programmed cell death-inducing effects against HeLa cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes, as well as immunomodulatory properties of the extract were determined by flow cytometry analysis. Results: The research results demonstrated that the extract has significant inhibitory potential against HeLa cells (mean IC50 value 119.2 μg/mL). The sample selectively induced apoptotic death in tumor cells. Cytotoxic effects towards mouse cell lines were detected following treatment with high concentrations of Betonica bulgarica extract (200 and 250 μg/mL). Twenty-four-hour ex vivo incubation of peripheral blood leucocytes in growth medium containing plant extract induced prominent effects in distinct immune cell populations. They included elevated levels of CD25+ and CD56+ T cells' lymphocytes, particularly CD4+CD25+ and CD8+CD56+ cells. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that Betonica bulgarica inflorescence extract possesses potential beneficial antitumor and immunomodulatory activity and could serve as a source of bioactive compounds with biomedical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was the comparative study of the content of the amino acids in the herb and tubers of Stachys sieboldii. The study of the amino acid composition of the raw materials was carried out using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results obtained have shown that the aerial parts of plants investigated have higher amino acid content than the underground organs. Free and bound L-aspartic acid, L-proline, and L-phenylalanine were present in the analyzed samples in the greatest amount. Moreover, L-cysteine was found only in Stachys sieboldii tubers in amounts (8.11 mg/g). This research established that Stachys sieboldii herb and tubers have the most suitable amino acids composition and are prospective for further pharmacological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphological and essential oil diversity of Stachys lavandulifolia populations from the west and northwest of Iran were evaluated. The results showed a significant difference between the populations for nearly all the evaluated traits. The broadest variation ranges were recorded for the auxiliary shoot length, leaf length in the main branch, and the number of flowers in the inflorescences. Furthermore, cluster analysis divided 13 populations into four separate groups. GC/MS analysis verified the presence of 28 components comprising up to 94/4% of the oils. The dominant constituents were α-pinene (1.07–34.87%), (E)-caryophyllene (0.45–25.99%), germacrene D (3.36–20.61%), Δ-cadinene (2.82–19.90%), bicyclogermacrene (1.72–12.08%) α-terpineol (0–11.86%), α-muurolol (0.31–11.50%), p-cymene (0.67–9.67%), β-elemene (0.63–9.31%), and sabinene (0.32–6.29%). The results revealed that natural habitats and the related geo-climatological cues influenced morphological traits and oil composition. Considering the substantial environmental variations and the broad diversity, there would be a rich selection pool for the traits of interest. The populations are a step forward in the breeding programs for the highlighted essential oil constituents needed by the pharmaceutical and related industries. Furthermore, with the future comparative study of the populations from all Iranian territories and the neighboring countries, we will have a realistic idea of the coming conservational and exploitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the essential oil components obtained from the aerial parts of the endemic Stachys tundjeliensis Kit Tan & Sorger plant, which grows naturally in Tunceli, were determined by water distillation. The aim of the study was to determine the essential oil components of the plant and to contribute to the taxonomy of the species and genus. The study material was collected with flowers between Tunceli-Ovacık in 2021, dried and made ready. Essential oil was obtained from 100 g of plant samples by water distillation method and after 3 hours of distillation using Clevenger apparatus. GC/MS (Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometer) were used for analysis. A total of 29 components were determined in the essential oil obtained. Eucalyptol (28.9%), thymol (14.3%), 4 carvomethanol (12.5%), d-piperitone (11.2%), α-pinene (6.3%) and terpineol (5.7%) are high components. It can be considered as eucalyptol/thymol chemotype from these components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two types of essential oils (thyme and Stachys) were used in this Estimation. The chemical composition, antioxidant activity (by DPPH assay) and the rancimat method were used to assess the stability effect of these essential oils. The tested oils were added to mayonnaise to evaluate its capability for inhibition of secondary oxidation products. By DPPH assay, antioxidant activity showed that thyme essential oil was the best antioxidant agent as radical scavenging agents at 450 and 500 ppm concentrations, even better than BHT at the200 ppm concentration. As a typical antioxidant, butylated hydroxytoluene was used for comparison. The mayonnaise samples prepared by adding thyme, stachys essential oils and TBHQ (control +) at concentrations of 200,400, 600 and 200 ppm into the sunflower oil free from antioxidant. At the amounts used in this study, thyme and stachys oils were significantly successful in reducing the oxidation of sunflower oil, especially, at 500 ppmwhich showed more efficient than BHT. Specifically, in the presence of thyme oil, the induction period of sunflower oil was considerably elongated. However, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) was more efficient than thyme and Stachys oils at the 200-ppm concentration against oxidation of oils. all concentrations of thyme and stachys essential oils had an antioxidant activity similar to synthetic antioxidant of TBHQ at a concentration of 200 ppm for inhibition of secondary oxidation products in mayonnaise in comparison with the control sample. As a conveniently available source of natural antioxidants, thyme and stachys essential oils can be used for use in fats, oils and food containing fats.

Skin ulcers associated with significant bleeding and bacterial infections can be life-threatening and pose significant challenges in clinical settings. To solve this problem, there is an increasing need for biomaterials that have hemostatic and antibacterial properties. Such biomaterials are highly desirable as they could help to promote wound healing and prevent infections, thus improving patient therapeutic outcomes. Inspired by this content, a new type of nanocomposite sponge based on sodium alginate (SA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was created with the combination of carbon dots (CDs) and woolly hedge nettle extract (HNE) as an antibacterial and hemostatic wound dressing. The prepared samples were characterized by different techniques. The properties of CDs were determined by FT-IR and XRD. SEM confirmed the creation of porous and interconnected structures. The developed nanocomposite sponge showed suitable physicochemical properties such as hydrophilicity, water vapor transmission rate, water absorption, and mechanical properties. Also, the cytotoxicity and hemolysis percentage of these sponges were within the permissible range. In addition, the antibacterial activity of the sponges increased by adding HNE. Finally, In vivo studies showed that these sponge nanocomposites can have a potential healing function for wound dressing applications. [Display omitted] • A nanocomposite sponge containing SA, PVA, CDs, and woolly hedge nettle extract was fabricated. • Adding woolly hedge nettle extract improves the antibacterial effects of the nanocomposite sponge. • The nanocomposite sponge showed suitable hydrophilicity, water absorption, and mechanical properties. • In vivo results showed that the nanocomposite sponge has a potential hemostatic function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) of Stachys byzantina, S. hissarica and S. betoniciflora growing in Uzbekistan were determined, and their antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activity were assessed. A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed the presence of 143 metabolites accounting for 70.34, 76.78 and 88.63% of the total identified components of S. byzantina, S. hissarica and S. betoniciflora, respectively. Octadecanal (9.37%) was the most predominant in S. betoniciflora. However, n-butyl octadecenoate (4.92%) was the major volatile in S. byzantina. Benzaldehyde (5.01%) was present at a higher percentage in S. hissarica. A chemometric analysis revealed the ability of volatile profiling to discriminate between the studied Stachys species. The principal component analysis plot displayed a clear diversity of Stachys species where the octadecanal and benzaldehyde were the main discriminating markers. The antioxidant activity was evaluated in vitro using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azino bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric reducing power (FRAP), chelating and phosphomolybdenum (PBD). Moreover, the ability of the essential oils to inhibit both acetyl/butyrylcholinesterases (AChE and BChE), α-amylase, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase was assessed. The volatiles from S. hissarica exhibited the highest activity in both the ABTS (226.48 ± 1.75 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/g oil) and FRAP (109.55 ± 3.24 mg TE/g oil) assays. However, S. betoniciflora displayed the strongest activity in the other assays (174.94 ± 0.20 mg TE/g oil for CUPRAC, 60.11 ± 0.36 mg EDTA equivalent (EDTAE)/g oil for chelating and 28.24 ± 1.00 (mmol TE/g oil) for PBD. Regarding the enzyme inhibitory activity, S. byzantina demonstrated the strongest AChE (5.64 ± 0.04 mg galantamine equivalent (GALAE)/g oil) and tyrosinase inhibitory (101.07 ± 0.60 mg kojic acid equivalent (KAE)/g) activity. The highest activity for BChE (11.18 ± 0.19 mg GALAE/g oil), amylase inhibition (0.76 ± 0.02 mmol acarbose equivalent (ACAE)/g oil) and glucosidase inhibition (24.11 ± 0.06 mmol ACAE/g oil) was observed in S. betoniciflora. These results showed that EOs of Stachys species could be used as antioxidant, hypoglycemic and skincare agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tribe Stachydeae with 12 genera were divided into two major clades: Melitis and Eurystachys clades consisting of all genera attributed to Stachydeae except Melittis. Recently, a broadly defined Eurystachys clade falling into 12 well-supported clades have been formally named in a phylogenetic nomenclature. In the present study, trichomes of 70 spp. from nine genera and pollens of 53 spp. from six genera were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to draw the taxonomic conclusion of tribe Stachydeae. Trichome characters that can provide adequate variation in delimitation of taxa were: presence or absence of glandular or nonglandular trichomes, number of cells (uni-/bi-/multicellular), presence of extremely long trichomes (i.e. more than 1000 µm), presence of branched trichomes as well as type of glandular trichomes (peltate or capitate with three subtypes: sessile to subsessile, short-stalked and long-stalked trichomes). Among the investigated characters, extremely long simple trichomes and branched trichomes were apomorphic and were found in Eriostomum and Marrubiastrum clades, respectively. In addition, number of colpi, type of sculpturing as well as shape of lumina as the main features of the investigated pollen grains afforded valuable characters especially in delimitation of several natural groups, i.e. Eriostomum clade, Empedoclea clade, Sideritis clade, Marrubiastrum clade, and Swainsoniana clade. Moreover, a close relationship among two annual clades of Sideritis each of represents a section, i.e. Hesiodia and Burgsdorfia, is suggested by our results. However, in both Stachys and Olisia clades which are morphologically heterogeneous, type of sculpturing shows variation and mostly useful in species discrimination. Overall, trichome and pollen characters can be useful in describing the natural groups within tribe Stachydeae along with other reliable morphological characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stachys schtschegleevii (SSC) is a herbal medicine used to treat infections. To date, this is the first study aimed to investigate the effects of SSC tea on disease activity score (DAS), serum inflammatory biomarkers and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1 and MMP-3) among women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: This pilot, triple-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted among forty-four women (age: 30–65 years) diagnosed with moderately active RA. Subjects were randomly assigned (1:1 ratio) into either SSC group (2.4 g/day SSC + 2.4 g/day black tea, n=22) or placebo (2.4 g/day black tea, n=22) for 8 weeks. Serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and MMPs were measured using ELISA. According to the American College of Rheumatology guideline considering hs-CRP, DAS28 was assessed. Results: Both study groups had respondent rates above 94.9%. The SSC intervention caused significant reductions in the number and the percent changes of the tender joints (SSC: −74.39% vs. placebo: −57.15%, mean differences= −0.77; P<0.05) and DAS28 [SSC: −32.44% vs. placebo: −22.32%, mean differences= −0.41, P<0.05). Unlike the intervention within SSC group that showed significant reductions in the mean serum levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β, and MMP-3, SSC caused significant MMP-3 reductions (SSC: −20.59% vs. placebo: 1.29%, P<0.05). Conclusion: The SSC intervention showed an appropriate clinical efficacy for female RA patients, accompanying remarkable reductions in the number of tender and swollen joints, DAS28, and serum levels of MMP-3. This can provide additional insights to the interventional studies controlling RA-related pathological and inflammatory outcomes. Trial registration Prospectively registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), linked to the WHO Registry Network (https://en.irct.ir/trial/11602, IRCT registration number: IRCT2015032011335N5, Registration date:2015-05-12). Key Points • Stachys schtschegleevii improved clinical outcomes and attenuated disease severity in RA patients. • Stachys schtschegleevii ameliorated serum level of MMP-3 in RA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stachys schimperi Vatke has been previously reported for its analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cardioprotective properties. Objectives: Phytochemical analysis and assessment of anti-hepatitis B virus (anti-HBV) activity of S. schimperi. Materials and Methods: Surface extraction was performed to isolate the phytoconstituents using chromatographic techniques, including HPLC. The isolates were identified by a 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data. Further, the isolates were tested for cytotoxicity using an MTT assay. Non-cytotoxic doses of the isolates were assessed for their antiviral potential on cultured HepG2.2.15 cells. To rationalize the plausible mechanisms of the tested anti-HBV active compounds, molecular docking studies were carried out using HBV polymerase (Pol) enzyme. Results: The NMR data proved the structure of isolates as artemetin [5-hydroxy, 3' 3′,4′'6,7-penta methoxy flavone] (1), chrysosplenetin [5,4′-dihydroxy, 3'3′' 6,7-tetra methoxy flavone] (2) and calycopterin [5,4′-dihydroxy, 3' 6,7'8-tetra methoxy flavone] (3). Notably, this is the first report on the isolation of these three compounds from S. schimperi as well as artemetin and calycopterin from the genus Stachys. Further antiviral assessment of the non-cytotoxic dose showed marked inhibitions of HBV antigens (HBsAg/HBeAg) by artemetin (52.28%/46.52%) and calycopterin (61.24%/57.26%) in HepG2.2.15 cells. Chrysosplenetin, however, did not show any anti-HBV activity. Artemetin and calycopterin exhibited anti-HBV activity, possibly through inhibition of HBV-Pol as revealed by molecular docking. Conclusion: We report the identification of anti-HBV active flavones artemetin and Calycopterin from S. shimperi. Our data strongly warrant further molecular and pharmacological studies on artemetin and calycopterin toward developing potential anti-HBV therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Thymus daenensis Celak (TDC) and Stachys pilifera Benth (SPB) plants on HepG2 cell line were investigated by using different analyses. Cytotoxicity and apoptosis of extracts were investigated by MTT method, AnnV/PI apoptosis assay, and their antioxidant capacity was evaluated by total thiol and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) assay. The results revealed that the SBP extract was more cytotoxic compared with the TDC extract and increased over time (128.49 µg/mL vs 107.11 µg/mL IC50 values for 24 and 72 h, respectively). Although, AnnV/PI apoptosis assay showed apoptosis induction for both extracts, but the caspase-3 activity assay revealed that TDC extract significantly increased caspase-3 activity compared with the control and SPB extract. Increasing the activity of GPX by SPB extract revealed that it has high antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, the TDC and SPB with high antioxidant capacity have high cytotoxicity against HepG2 cancer cells and have high capability as a medicinal plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the fatty acid composition and neuroprotective potential of some selected Lamiaceae taxa from Turkey. For this purpose, methanol extracts of Lamium album L., Lamium garganicum L., Phlomis rigida Labill., Salvia syriaca L., Salvia sclarea L., and Stachys cretica subsp. anatolica Rech. f. were investigated for their activity against hydrogen peroxide induced neuronal cell death. The fatty acid compositions were analyzed by GC-FID, and the IA and IT indices and the ω3/ω6 ratio were also calculated. Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids of selected Lamiaceae species were measured to range from 8.92–17.59% and 75.13–84.57%, respectively. Phlomis rigida with the highest ω3/ω6 was shown to have the highest neuroprotection against H2O2-induced cell toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys schtschegleevii Sosn. is an endemic medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family and mainly grown in North-western Iran. Drought stress is an important factor in reducing the yield of medicinal herbs. Water-stress tolerance involves subtle changes in cellular biochemistry. It appears to be the result of the accumulation of compatible solutes and of chemical compositions that can be rapidly induced by osmotic stress. For this purpose, the effect of different irrigation regimes (well-watered and irrigation after depletion of 40% and 70% of field capacity (FC)) were studied in S. schtschegleevii. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design in three replications. The results showed that water-deficit had negative effects on shoot dry matter, relative water content, and photosynthetic pigments of the exposed plants. The essential oil (EO) content under water-deficit had an increasing trend. Water-deficit significantly increased total phenol content, proline, H2O2, and malondialdehyde contents. Linalool, β-pinene oxide, α-campholenal and germacrene-D were the major compounds of essential oils (EOs) affected by water-deficit stress. Finally, although water deficiency reduces the shoot dry matter yield of the S. schtschegleevii, the accumulation of EO increased as a plant response to water-deficit stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys thracica Davidov is a Balkan endemic species distributed in Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey. In Bulgaria, it is classified as "rare" and is under the protection of the Bulgarian biodiversity law. The aim of our study was to develop an efficient protocol for ex situ conservation of S. thracica and to perform comparative NMR-based metabolite profiling and bioactivity assays of extracts from in situ grown, in vitro cultivated, and ex vitro acclimated plants. Micropropagation of S. thracica was achieved by in vitro cultivation of mono-nodal segments on basal MS medium. Ex vitro adaptation was accomplished in the experimental field with 83% survival while conserved genetic identity between in vitro and ex vitro plants as shown by the overall sequence-related amplified polymorphism marker patterns was established. Verbascoside, chlorogenic acid, and trigonelline appeared the main secondary metabolites in in situ, in vitro cultivated, and ex vitro acclimated S. thracica. High total phenolic and flavonoid content as well as antioxidant and radical scavenging activity were observed in in situ and ex vitro plants. Further, the anti-inflammatory activity of S. thracica was tested by hemolytic assay and a high inhibition of the complement system was observed. Initiated in vitro and ex vitro cultures offer an effective tool for the management and better exploitation of the Stachys secondary metabolism and the selection of lines with high content of bioactive molecules and nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The somatic chromosome numbers and karyotype features of seven populations representing three species of Stachys L. (Lamiaceae), which are naturally distributed across Iran, were described. The results confirm the presence of different basic chromosome numbers including x = 15 and 17 within the genus. All the studied taxa were diploid and the chromosome counts of two species including S. benthamiana and S. setifera (2n = 34) are reported for the first time, while the chromosome number of S. byzantina (2n = 30) is confirmed. The chromosomes in the studied taxa of Stachys were generally small, as the longest chromosome length was detected on S. setifera (18713) (2.26 μm), whereas S. setifera (23354) demonstrated the shortest length (1.46 μm). The karyotypes were symmetrical composing of metacentric chromosomes as indicated by their mean arm ratio (AR) that ranged between 1.11 in S. setifera (23354) and 1.29 in S. byzantina (37985), so it was classified as class 1A according to Stebbins’ categories. Based on the values of total form percentage (TF%, 47.1%), Arano index of karyotype asymmetry (AsK%, 52.5%), symmetry index (S%, 94.0%) and differences of range relative length (DRL, 0.36), S. setifera (23354) had the most inter-and intra-chromosomal symmetric karyotype. Also, S. byzantina (37985) had the most inter-and intra-chromosomal asymmetric karyotype based on the values of TF% (42.0%), AsK% (56.1%), and relative length of chromosome (RL%, 6.6%). The results of cluster analysis based on chromosomal parameters divided the taxa into two main groups using the Ward method. Group I included taxa with x = 17 and group II contained S. byzantina (x = 15).

In the present study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized by aqueous extract of Stachys byzantina K. Koch and characterized by various analytical methods. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV–Visible spectroscopy at 441.75 nm. The XRD study affirmed the crystalline structure of AgNPs. The value of zeta potential was −43.9 mV that showed the stability of nanoparticles. The TEM images revealed well-distributed nanoparticles with spherical shapes and an average size of 17 nm. FT-IR spectra depicted the presence of different functional groups such as hydroxyl and carbonyl substituents of biomolecules. These groups acted as reducing and capping agents which led to the stability and dispersion of AgNPs. The quantitative phytochemical investigations revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the aqueous extract and on the surface of AgNPs. Also, they indicated strong antioxidant activity (IC50=48.29 µg.ml−1) in the DPPH assay. The AgNPs had the best antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC = 12.5 µg.ml−1). The AgNPs showed remarkable cytotoxic activities against A431, B-CPAP, and HepG2 (IC50=8.16 ± 0.99, 11.39 ± 3.24, and 11.85 ± 0.33 µg.ml−1, respectively). Also, these three cell lines revealed the best selectivity index (≥3) which demonstrated that they are significantly more toxic to cancerous cell lines than the healthy one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys thracica Davidov - Thracian woundwort is a Balkan endemic plant included in The Red Data Book of Bulgaria with conservational status "rare". The plants from genus Stachys have a long history of use to treat various diseases, inflammatory conditions, coughs, ulcers, genital tumors, and infected wounds. Due to its limited distribution the information on the biological activity and chemical composition of S. thracica is rather scarce. The aim of the present research is the comparative determination of the antimicrobial activity of methanolic extracts obtained from in situ wild, in vitro cultivated and ex vitro adapted S. thracica plants. The in vitro shoot culture of the Thracian woundwort was maintained in hormone-free MS medium under controlled environmental conditions. The methanolic extracts from in situ, in vitro cultivated and ex vitro adapted S. thracica plants were active mainly against Gram-negative bacteria. All three extracts showed equal activity against Acinetobacter calcoaceticus. The establishment of in vitro shoot culture and its subsequent adaptation in ex vitro conditions was an appropriate alternative approach for the ex situ conservation of S. thracica as well as for the study of its biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys bulgarica Degen & Neic (Bulgarian woundwort) is a Bulgarian endemic plant included in The Red Data Book of Bulgaria with conservational status "endangered". The plants from Stachys genus have been used in ethnomedicine for various inflammatory diseases and infected wounds. There are no data on in vitro multiplication of S. bulgarica and scarce information is available about its biological activity. In the present work we aim to develop an effective protocol for in vitro multiplication and ex situ conservation of S. bulgarica and comparative determination of the radical scavenging activity and phenolic composition of extracts isolated from in situ, in vitro cultivated and ex vitro adapted plants. In vitro shoot culture was induced from ripe dried seeds and multiplicated on basal MS medium. Ex vitro adaptation was accomplished in experimental field with 96% survival. The highest phenol and flavonoid quantity as well as antioxidant and radical-scavenging activity were observed in in situ and ex vitro adapted plants. Different growth conditions affect the phenol quantity and antioxidant potential of S. bulgarica. A collection of in vitro cultivated and ex vitro adapted plants was established which is an alternative approach for the preservation of this endemic species in Bulgaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders. Though there are several effective drugs for treating epilepsy, most drugs are associated with side effects and drug interactions. Stachys lavandulifolia used in Iranian traditional medicine has proven antianxiety and sedative properties. The current study aimed to evaluate the anticonvulsant effect of hydroalcoholic extract of S. lavandulifoliaon the Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure in male mice and the role of benzodiazepine and opioid receptors. Methods: This study was conducted on 100 male mice, randomly categorized into 10 groups: Normal Saline (NS), two diazepam groups (0.025 and 0.1 mg/kg), three S. lavandulifolia extract groups (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg), diazepam 0.025 mg/kg+S. lavandulifolia extract 50 mg/kg, and three groups that pretreated with NS, flumazenil, or naloxone, 5 min before injection of 200 mg/kg S. lavandulifolia extract. After 30 min, PTZ (80 mg/kg) was injected into animals, and seizure indices were evaluated. Results: The S. lavandulifoliaextract attenuated the PTZ-induced seizures in a dose-dependent manner, and pretreatment with flumazenil reversed this effect. However, pretreatment with naloxone could not reverse this effect because seizure indices in the naloxone pretreated group were lower than that in the normal saline group. The combination of an ineffective dose of diazepam and S. lavandulifoliaextract decreased PTZ-induced seizures. Conclusion: The results of our study showed the anticonvulsant properties of hydroalcoholic extract of S. lavandulifolia. These effects might be due to the impact of the components of this extract on the central benzodiazepine system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ingo Uhlemann & Walter K. Rottensteiner present the results of their investigations about the populations of Taraxacum tenuifolium in Istra and the islands oft he Kvarner Bay. 27 collaborators have revised 546 specimens (+ 664 duplicates) from the „Herbarium Istriacum" (KL) und 873 specimens from other 13 public herbaria (BREM, CNHM, DR, GJO, GZU, KL, MSTR, TSB, W, WHB, WU, ZA, ZAGR) and from 2 private herbara (Herb. I.Uhlemann/D-Liebenau bei Dresden, Herb. H.Zwander/A-Köttmannsdorf). The duplicates from the „Herbarium Istriacum" are distributed to 24 public institutions (ANGUC, B, BKF, GJO, GZU, IB, IBF, JACA, LG, LI, LJU, M, MA, MBM, NHMR, NY, OSC, R, TK, UBC, US, WHB, WU, ZA) and 3 private herbaria (Herb. G.Gottschlich/D-Tübingen, Herb. G.Krebs/D-Thale, Herb. I. Uhlemann/D-Liebenau bei Dresden). The following new taxa for Istria are published here for the first time: Aubrieta columnae subsp. croatica, Aurinia saxatilis, Bolboschoenus yagara (also new for Croatia!), Callitriche brutia var. brutia (also new for Croatia!), Elsholtzia ciliata, Erysimum scoparium (also new for Croatia!), Fibigea clypeata, Ocimum kilimandscharicum (also new new for Croatia!), Orobanche centaurina (also new for Croatia!), Rosa ×polliniana and Rosa ×waitziana. - New for the island of Krk are Allium commutatum, Alyssoides utriculata, Arabis alpina subsp. caucasica, Aubrieta columnae subsp. croatica, Aurinia saxatilis, Barbarea stricta, Bolboschoenus yagara, Bromus hordeaceus subsp. pseudothominei (also new for Croatia!), Buddleja davidii, Callitriche brutia var. brutia, Carex remota, Cistus creticus subsp. eriocephalus, Clinopodium ascendens, Clinopodium ×bernhardtianum, Conringia orientalis, Crepis vesicaria subsp. taraxacifolia, Cyperus brevifolius, Dianthus carthusianorum subsp. atrorubens, Elsholtzia ciliata, Elytrigia ×drucei, Erigeron annuus subsp. strigosus, Erysimum scoparium, Euphorbia myrsinites, Fibigea clypeata, Galeopsis angustifolia subsp. angustifolia, Galium murale, Galium spurium, Hieracium piloselloides subsp. parciflocca, Lepidium densiflorum, Lepidium sativum, Leucanthemum ircutianum subsp. ircutianum, Mentha microphylla, Mentha suaveolens var. suaveolens, Orobanche centaurina, Pilosella piloselloides subsp. cylindriceps, Rosa ×waitziana, Satureja ×karstiana, Sonchus arvensis subsp. uliginosus, Stellaria ruderalis, Stachys recta subsp. labiosa, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii subsp. novi-belgii, Tradescantia zebrina, Vincetoxicum hirundinaria subsp. contiguum and Vitis labrusca. - New for the island of Prvić are Dianthus ciliatus subsp. ciliatus, Scolymus hispanicus and Silene vulgaris subsp. angustifolia. - New for the island of Plavnik are Capsella rubella, Erodium cicutarium subsp. cicutarium, Euphorbia helioscopia, Geranium molle subsp. molle, Sisymbrium loeselii and Thymus serpyllum. - New for the island of Cres are Alcea biennis, Saponaria officinalis and Sempervivum tectorum var. tectorum. - New for the island of Susak is Delairea odorata. - New for the island of Ilovik are Delairea odorata, Malva sylvestris var. eriocarpa and Silene sedoides. Clinopodium ×padureana is described here as a new hybrid between C. glandulosum and C. subnudum. 67 new literature data are added to the publication list of the flora of Istria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, interest in the pharmacological effects of plants has increased and studies on bioactive compounds have intensified. In this study, we aimed at evaluating the antioxidant and neuroprotective potential of Lamiaceae plants including Stachys lavandulifolia, Salvia verticillata, Phlomis herba venti sp. pungens and Phlomis sieheana in both cellfree systems and the cell culture model. Methanol extracts of the aerial parts of these plants, cultivated in Elazig, Turkey were carried out. Antioxidant activity assays (ABTS and DPPH) and total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts were measured. Next, the effects of methanol extracts on cell viability and catalase protein levels were investigated in hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative stress model. DPPH radical scavenging activities were determined with the IC50 value of 31.36±0.25, 30.44±0.19, 30.16±0.08 and 56.54±0.93 for Stachys lavandulifolia, Salvia verticillata, Phlomis herba venti sp. pungens and Phlomis sieheana, respectively. ABTS radical scavenging activities were determined as 6.38±1.48,16.93±0.68,5.97±4.04 and 2.28±0.51. The highest cellular protection and catalase expression were determined in Phlomis-treated cells against H2O2(p<0.05). On the other hand, no statistically significant change in cell viability was observed when the extracts were compared with each other. Our findings support the neuroprotective and antioxidant potential of these four Lamiaceae plants, particularly Phlomis species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iran has different environmental conditions due to its specific geographical location. Therefore, exploring essential oil and flavonoid components among medicinal plants in different areas may result in discoveries about valuable bioactive compounds. The present investigation aimed to study flavonoids profile and essential oils composition of four Lamiaceae species i.e., Stachys lavandulifolia, Teucrium polium, Thymus daenensis and Ziziphora clinopodioides from Oshtorankoh located on Zagros Mountains, Iran. A chemical study using two dimentional paper chromatography (2-DPC) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) showed that the four studied species contained flavone C and C-/O glucosides and flavonoid sulphates. The present study revealed that T. polium had high levels of many flavonoids such as apigenin, genistein, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, and vitexin compared to the other studied plants. The results of GC/MS analysis showed that S. lavandulifolia was rich in a-pinene (21.16 %) and 1,8-cineol (16.95 %), T. polium in a-pinene (12.21 %) and sabinene (9.55 %), T. daenensis in α-Terpinene (36.98 %) and p-Cymene (26.87 %), and Z. clinopodioides in piperitone (16.84 %) and 1,8-cineol (16.11 %) components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Phytochemistry and biological activity of Stachys germanica subsp. heldreichii was studied. • The extracts were rich in verbascoside and chlorogenic acid. • Aqueous and methanol extracts exhibited remarkable antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activity. • Ethyl acetate extract was the most effective against α-amylase. Stachys species have traditionally been used by the people for thousands of years to treat various diseases. In this study, the chemical composition and enzyme inhibitory activities of the various extracts of Stachys germanica subsp. heldreichii (Boiss.) Hayek (Lamiaceae), which were isolated using solvents with different polarities, were investigated. Antioxidant activities of the extracts were analyzed by phosphomolybdenum, radical scavenging [on DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)], reducing power [CUPRAC (cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity) and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power)] and ferrous ion chelating tests, while tyrosinase and α-amylase were used for enzyme inhibitory activity assays. RACI (relative antioxidant capacity index) analysis showed that the ranking of the extracts was MeOH (methanol) > Water > EtOAc (ethyl acetate). In ABTS radical scavenging (2.26 mg/mL), phosphomolybdenum (1.68 mg/mL), CUPRAC (1.35 mg/mL) and FRAP tests (0.75 mg/mL), the MeOH extract showed the highest activity. However, the water extract exhibited the highest activity in DPPH radical scavenging and ferrous ion chelating tests. Tyrosinase inhibition potential of the MeOH extract was significant (IC 50 : 2.90 mg/mL). On the other hand, in α-amylase inhibition assay, EtOAc extract showed the highest activity (2.24 mg/mL). Amount of phenolics was higher in all extracts than flavonoids. MeOH extract was the richest one in phenolics and flavonoids. The major compounds of the extracts were chlorogenic acid and verbascoside. Pearson correlation analysis showed that these compounds were responsible especially for radical scavenging activity. Correlation between chemical composition and activity findings showed that verbascoside and apigenin contributed to tyrosinase and α-amylase inhibition, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen limitation and its drivers along altitudinal clines form a controversial topic, highlighting the need for more studies and in different biomes. We tested the hypothesis that the populations of a predominantly bee-pollinated plant are pollen-limited along elevations and examined whether this is related to bee visitation rate. For two years, we studied flower visitation, pollen limitation and mating system using five populations of Stachys germanica L. occurring between 327 and 1936 m a.s.l. on Mt. Olympus, Greece. S. germanica showed moderate to high self-compatibility, low spontaneous self-pollination and low pollen limitation across all altitudes and years. Bumblebees were the dominant pollinators; their visitation increased with altitude and was positively correlated with seed set and negatively correlated with pollen limitation. The opposite trend was found for the visitation by other pollinators. Seed mass was independent of visitation. Low pollen limitation is evidently due to high bumblebee visitation along the altitude, whereas seed mass could be linked to resource availability or environmental conditions. Our findings underline the functional role of bumblebees on Mediterranean mountains, and the need to focus on bumblebee conservation on this legendary mountain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys longiflora Boiss. & Bal, previously known only from the type gathering is a steno-endemic species from Turkey. The species was firstly collected by Balansa from Mersin-Guzeldere in 1855 and described by Boissier and Balansa in 1859. It was not collected again until 2011, when the author found it in Guzeldere (Mersin). Therefore, S. longiflora is treated under “Data Deficient” DD category in the Turkish Red Data Book. In this study, some anatomical and micromorphological characters, observations and measurements of S. longiflora are presented for the first time. The diagnostic morphological, anatomical, nutlet micromorphological and palynological characters of this steno-endemic species are discussed. Morphological characteristics of corollas, calyces, leaves, and stems are useful for specific delimitation in Stachys. Anatomical characters such as the shape of sclerenchymatic tissue and presence or absence of sclerenchymatic tissue in stems, mesophyll structures in leaves are of taxonomic significance. Moreover, the presence or absence of nutlets trichomes, shape and sculpturing pattern of nutlets are diagnostic characters. The emended and expanded description, ecology and phenology of this steno-endemic species are also presented along with its revised conservation status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique properties of nanoparticles create broad opportunities as regards their application in almost all disciplines of science and technology. There are many reports about the negative influence of nanoproducts on the environment and humans. Therefore, it is of vital importance to explore the impact of metal nanoparticles on plants. This is why this work is concerned with the phytotoxic activity of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized biologically from Betonica officinalis extract against the seed of Lepidium sativum, Linum flavum, Zea mays and Salvia hispanica-Chia. The obtained ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Those methods made it possible to assess the structure and size of the obtained ZnO nanoparticles, which was 5 nm. The obtained ZnO nanoparticles exhibited significant toxic properties throughout the range of the tested concentrations. ZnO nanoparticles were the most toxic to Lepidium sativum, for which the IC50 value was 0.0000112 [mg/ml]. The solution of Zn(NO3)2 was toxic as well, as it inhibited the growth of the tested sample throughout the range of the tested concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: This study was designed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activities of S. pilifera (HESP) in two sub-acute models of inflammation and clarified some possible mechanisms. Experimental approach: Colorimetric methods were used to determine total phenol and flavonoid contents. Carrageenan or formalin-induced rat paw edema (seven days) and multiple application TPA-induced ear edema in mice (9 days) were used. The concentration of IL-1 and TNF-α were measured in the inflamed paw, as well as MDA levels in the serum and liver. Histopathological studies and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of the extract were also studied using heat-or hypotonicity-induced hemolysis in RBC humans. Findings/Results: Total phenol and flavonoid contents of HESP were 101.35 ± 2.96 mg GAE/g extract and 660.79 ± 10.06 mg RE g extract, respectively. Oral (100 and 200 mg/kg) and topical application (5 mg/ear) of HESP significantly inhibited formalin-induced paw edema and multiple TPA-induced ear edema. The extract also significantly decreased the serum and liver levels of MDA in the carrageenan and formalin tests. The elevated levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the carrageenan-injected paw were not affected by HESP. The extract (50-800 μg/mL) inhibited heat-or hypotonicity-induced hemolysis. Histopathological examination of the inflamed tissues revealed that HESP inhibited congestion and leukocyte infiltration. Conclusion and implications: The findings confirmed the potent anti-inflammatory effects of S. pilifera in two sub-acute inflammation models and suggested that these properties were not related to IL-1 and TNF-α, but could be attributed to inhibition of lipid peroxidation, membrane stabilization, and inhibition of leukocyte penetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial activities can affect accumulation of pollutants (e.g., heavy metals (HMs)) by plants and influence their entrance to the food chain. This research was carried out on accumulation of HMs including chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) by two plants Stachys inflata and Scariola orientalis grown in natural grasslands in vicinity of a national park where they are influenced by dispersion of particulate matter (PM) through Sarooj Cement Factory in central Iran. The PM spatial dispersion of the factory was determined using the AERMOD model. Soil and vegetation samples were collected based on the modeled PM levels to analyze their HM contents. Bioconcentration factor (BCF) and transfer factor (TF) from root to shoot were determined in two widespread plants of the region: Stachys inflata and Scariola orientalis. The mean concentration of HMs in the soil samples was as follows: Zn (145.39 mg/kg) > Pb (78.52 mg/kg) > Cr (32.69 mg/kg) which was significantly correlated with simulated PM concentrations. This indicated the common source and distribution pattern of HMs which affected their accumulation in plants. TF and BCF values of the HMs were higher in Scariola orientalis than those of Stachys inflata, especially for Cr showing potentially higher risk to enter the food chain. The results showed that HM concentration in the soil as well as their accumulation by plants were correlated with the simulated PM deposition and not with linear distance from the factory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaf, stem, calyx, and corolla indumentum of seven endemic taxa belonging to Stachys subsect. Fragiles, growing in Turkey, were micromorphologically and anatomically analyzed under scanning electron and light microscopes with the use of cluster analysis and Principal Component Analysis. We detected 10 trichome types on the leaf, seven trichome types on the stem and calyx, and eight trichome types on the corolla. Especially, the type and distribution of the trichomes on the calyx and corolla surfaces were quite different. The calyx and corolla had seven and eight trichome types, including glandular or non-glandular, in the examined taxa, respectively. The most common type observed was a short clavate glandular trichome; however, conical thin-walled unicellular hairs were specific for the studied taxa. No branched trichomes were observed. In the examined taxa, the indumentum indicated variations and some important similarities. The indumentum types have a high taxonomical value for the species of the genus. A key has been offered for the identification of the studied taxa based on the trichome characters, by comparing the key of classic taxonomic characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys pilifera Benth is an endemic species of Iran where it is found in the mountainous habitats of Zagros region. The plant is a rich source of secondary metabolites endowed with different medicinal properties. Here, for the first time, the essential oil variability among eleven wild populations of S. pilifera, was investigated. Results indicated that the variation of the chemical profile of essential oils was remarkable. The most abundant components were cis-chrysanthenyl acetate (19.1-48.2%), viridiflorol (1.4-19.1%), trans-caryophyllene (2.3-11.9%), caryophyllene oxide (1.9-11.0%), limonene (2.0- 5.9%) and spathulenol (0.0- 9.5). Based on the cluster analyses (CA), four main chemotypes were recognized: chemotype I (cis-chrysanthenyl acetate), chemotype II (cis-chrysanthenyl acetate/viridiflorol), chemotype III (cis-chrysanthenyl acetate/viridiflorol/spathulenol), chemotype IV (cis-chrysanthenyl acetate/trans-caryophyllene/α-pinene). The chemical variation detected can be useful to consider these populations for pharmaceutical industries and industrial applications as well as for domestication and conservation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The plant Stachys pilifera Benth. was subjected to identification of its chemical constituents. • The isolated compounds were identified using 1D and 2D-NMR analysis. • A monoglyceride with a new structure was identified together with 11 known compounds. • The in vitro cytotoxic activity of compounds against breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) was evaluated by MTT assay. • A preliminary SAR study was performed against the short series of flavonoids. Phytochemical investigation of the n -hexane extract of Stachys pilifera Benth. aerial parts resulted in the isolation of twelve compounds. Structures were elucidated using 1D and 2D-NMR, as well as HRMS. The purified compounds identified as one new monoglyceride (1), nine flavonoids (2–10), and two steroidal compounds. The cytotoxicity effects of purified compounds were evaluated against breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and structural-activity relationship of the flavonoids were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies proving the food properties of some vegetable species are still incipient. Aiming to obtain deeper knowledge about the nutritional potentials, the scope of this work was to characterise the food compounds of interest, present in vegetables known as unconventional, in Brazil, and to group these species according to their chemical and nutritional similarities. Eight nutritional characteristics were evaluated in 10 species of unconventional vegetables, and representative samples of leaves, flowers and flower buds were collected. All species studied presented varying levels of nutritional compounds of interest, such as antioxidant activity, vitamin C, phenolics, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. There was great variation in the nutritional composition among the structures, species, and varieties analysed, which were organised into groups of nutritional similarities. The species Tropaeolum majus (leaves), Amaranthus hybridus and Stachys byzantina presented the highest values for antioxidant activity, phenolics, vitamin C, caloric value, carbohydrates and proteins, and, therefore, were characterised as an isolated group in a dendrogram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two types of essential oils (thyme and Stachys) were used in this Estimation. The chemical composition, antioxidant activity (by DPPH assay) and the rancimat method were used to assess the stability effect of these essential oils. The tested oils were added to mayonnaise to evaluate its capability for inhibition of secondary oxidation products. By DPPH assay, antioxidant activity showed that thyme essential oil was the best antioxidant agent as radical scavenging agents at 450 and 500 ppm concentrations, even better than BHT at the 200 ppm concentration. As a typical antioxidant, butylated hydroxytoluene was used for comparison. The mayonnaise samples prepared by adding thyme, stachys essential oils and TBHQ (control +) at concentrations of 200,400, 600 and 200 ppm into the sunflower oil free from antioxidant. At the amounts used in this study, thyme and stachys oils were significantly successful in reducing the oxidation of sunflower oil, especially, at 500 ppm which showed more efficient than BHT. Specifically, in the presence of thyme oil, the induction period of sunflower oil was considerably elongated. However, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) was more efficient than thyme and Stachys oils at the 200-ppm concentration against oxidation of oils. all concentrations of thyme and stachys essential oils had an antioxidant activity similar to synthetic antioxidant of TBHQ at a concentration of 200 ppm for inhibition of secondary oxidation products in mayonnaise in comparison with the control sample. As a conveniently available source of natural antioxidants, thyme and stachys essential oils can be used for use in fats, oils and food containing fats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geographic location, environmental conditions, and edaphic factors are interconnected, and collectively influence the total content of some plant-based compounds. Mountain tea (Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl) is a perennial plant in the Lamiaceae family, having prominent medicinal properties due to its unique chemical composition. The current research evaluated effective traits that shape the content of essential oil (EO) and phytochemical compounds in S. lavandulifolia populations (P). Samples were collected from 20 different habitats located in the west and northwest of Iran. The results indicated that the Heris (P3) and Sarab (P7) populations exhibited high levels of EOs and phytochemical properties. In the studied areas, principal component and cluster analyses considered environmental factors like climate and soil, thus revealing significant findings. Soil characteristics, including organic matter content, total nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and soil phosphorus (P) content, were identified as the most influential factors, with average annual rainfall following closely. The highest average annual temperatures largely contributed to distinguishing the areas, thus categorizing the habitats into three distinct groups. EO from 20 populations analyzed using GC/MS showed 41 compounds, the most important of which were α-pinene (1.21–33.29 %), α-bisabolol (0.71–53.05 %), and spathulenol (2.8–18.8 %), germacrene-D (1.13–12.18 %), β-phellandrene (0.09–16.72 %), myrcene (1.01–13.34 %), phytol (1.19–10.14 %), and viridiflorol (0.93–6.19 %). Grouping the S. lavandulifolia populations based on their main compounds in the EO divided them into two distinct habitats. The first habitat had eleven S. lavandulifolia populations, whereas the second had nine. Comparison of mean values among habitats showed that the first habitat was superior to the second, regarding sesquiterpene chemical compounds such as spathulenol, viridiflorol, α-muurolol, α-cadinol, and valeranone. The second habitat was more suitable than the first because of higher amounts of monoterpene chemical compounds, such as α-pinene, myrcene, and β-phellandrene. Overall, in this study, Heris (P3), Azarshahr (P4), and Sarab (P7) populations were favorable because of their EO yield and compounds. Our approach to identifying environmental and edaphic cues that shape the EO content, chemotype, or the presence of high amounts of specific compounds can help to select regions for sampling plant material while prioritizing desirable chemical profiles for direct use or in breeding programs. [Display omitted] • Evaluation of the chemical composition of 20 Stachys lavandulifolia populations. • This study underscores the substantial impact of environmental factors on EO components, total phenol and flavonoid content. • Altitudes had negative relation with essential oil content. • P3 and P7 habitats had populations with high levels of EOs and phytochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left: Justicia betonica inflorescence showing completely opened bilabiate flowers. Photo by Prakash Karmakar Top‐right: Potter wasp (Anterhynchium abdominale) collecting nectar. By Mrinmoy Midday Bottom‐center: Black and White Cuckoo bee (Thyreus) searching for nectar. By P. Karmakar Bottom‐right: Sweet bee (Halictus acrocephalus) gathering pollen. By M. Midday The photographs are taken adjacent to the Vidyasagar University Campus, West Bengal, India. Karmakar P et al. (2022) Floral biology, breeding system and pollination ecology of Justicia betonica L. (Acanthaceae): an assessment of its low reproductive success in West Bengal, India. Plant Species Biology, 278–293. https://doi.org/10.1111/1442-1984.12380 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given the importance of Stachys genus in Iran and their significant biological activity, we collected three species of this plant: St. aucheri Benth., Stachys benthamiana Boiss and St. inflata Benth. from different regions of Iran. We examined the free radical scavenging potential, total phenol content and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of their methanol, methanol 80% and dichloromethane extracts. Materials and Methods: Antioxidant activity and total phenol content of the mentioned extracts were assessed using DPPH and FolinCiocalteu reagent, respectively. The inhibitory activity of the extracts on tyrosinase was also investigated. Results: Total phenol content of different extracts was high in the extracts as 98.5-139.7 mg eq. gallic acid/g in methanol 80% extract, 36.8-54.7 mg eq. gallic acid/g in methanol extract and 17.9-44.9 mg eq. gallic acid/g in dichloromethane extract. Furthermore, their antioxidant activity was correlated with total phenol content of the extracts. Methanol 80% extract had the highest total phenol content and antioxidant activity. Evaluation of the tyrosinase inhibitory potential of the extracts revealed that St.inflata exhibited a considerable inhibitory potential (IC50= 5.4 ± 0.6 µM). Conclusion: It can be concluded that tyrosinase inhibitory activity of Stachys genus might be due to the less polar compounds and these compounds are mostly present in the dichloromethane extract of St. inflatai over St. aucheri and St. benthamiana

• Phenolic profile and biological activities of Stachys cretica subsp. kutahyensis of Turkey were studied. • 26 phenolic compounds were identified in the methanolic and water extracts of aerial organs. • Chlorogenic acid and verbascoside were predominant. • The aqueous extract expressed the highest antioxidant activities. • Methanol extract was found to be more active against tyrosinase and α-amylase. Stachys cretica L. subsp. kutahyensis is a Turkish endemic plant specie and used in flock medicine against many diseases. To our knowledge, no data are available on the chemical composition and the biological activities of this plant. In this study, the phytochemical composition, the enzyme inhibition and antioxidant activity of this specie were assessed. The Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–ESI–MS) analysis allowed the determination of 26 phenolic compounds with predominance of chlorogenic acid and verbascoside. The concentration of phenolic acids and flavonoid compounds significantly changed according to solvent used (water and methanol). From five different methods used, the antioxidant activity was important and significantly different between extracts for ferrous ion chelating and ABTS assays where the aqueous extract expressed higher antioxidant activity. However, interesting enzyme inhibition activities were observed for the extracts of S. cretica subsp. kutahyensis using α-amylase and tyrosinase. The highest α-amylase and tyrosinase inhibition activities were recorded with the methanol extract. The results confirm that S. cretica subsp. kutahyensis could be used as valuable new natural source with beneficial biological properties for food and pharmacology applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys pilifera Benth is an endemic species of Stachys family found in Iran with a wide application as an herbal tea. The objective of this research was to evaluate the antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of the essential oil from the aerial parts of S. pilifera. Essential oil (EO) composition analysis showed that cis-Chrysanthenyl acetate (24.9%), viridiflorol (18.3%), trans-Caryophyllene (9.8%), caryophyllene oxide (4.6%), α-terpineol (3.3%) and linalool (3.1%) were the most abundant components. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the EO showed a higher antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus) than Gram-negative organisms (Escherichia coli , Shigella sonnei , Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella enterica subsp. Enterica). The antioxidant activity of EO was studied using DPPH, FRAP and β-carotene/linoleic acid assays. IC50 for the DPPH, FRAP and β-carotene/linoleic acid tests were 23.2, 28.7 and 16.1 µg/mL, respectively, that it was higher than the results for BHT (P   ≤  0.05). The cytotoxic activity of the EO was evaluated using HT29 and HUVEC cells and it was observed that by increasing in EO concentration from 0.026 to 19.4 ug/mL, the viability of the cells for HT29 and HUVEC reduced to 6.8 and 7.1%, respectively. The results from this study suggest the possibility to use the essential oils from S. pilifera Benth as a natural preservative in processed or packaged food due to its high antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Stachys is a member of the Lamiaceae family. These are important medicinal plants which grow all over the world and are known for their flavoring and therapeutic effects and Stachys lavandulifolia is an endemic species of Iran. To acquire high‐quality essential oil (EO), drying technique was implemented which is an essential part of this process. The present study designed to evaluate the influences of different drying techniques (fresh sample, shade, sunlight, freeze‐drying, microwave, and oven‐drying (40, 60, and 80°C) on EO yield and composition of S. lavandulifolia. The results indicated that the maximum EO yield was obtained by the shade‐drying method. The main compounds found in the fresh samples were spathulenol, myrcene, β‐pinene, δ‐cadinene, and α‐muurolol, while spathulenol, cyrene, δ‐cadinene, p‐cymene, decane, α‐terpinene, β‐pinene, and intermedeol were found to be the dominant compounds in the dry samples. Drying techniques were found to have a significant impact on the values of the main compositions, for example, monoterpene hydrocarbons such as α‐pinene, β‐pinene, myrcene, and β‐phellandrene were significantly reduced by microwave drying, oven‐drying (40, 60, and 80°C), and sunlight‐drying methods. Drying techniques increased the antioxidant activity of S. lavandulifolia EOs especially those acquired by freeze‐drying with the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values 101.8 ± 0.8 mg/ml in DPPH assay and 315.2 ± 2.1 mg/ml in decreasing power assay. As a result, shade‐, sun‐, and oven‐drying (40°C) were found to be the most important techniques for attaining maximum yields of EO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys sieboldii MiQ (SSM) is an important food and medicinal herb in Korea, used to improve memory of patients with senile dementia and cardiovascular diseases. However, little information on bioactive components from SSM or standardized extraction methods for these components is available. This study isolated and purified major components from SSM for the first time, and assessed their ability to inhibit soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). The results showed that acteoside is the most potent inhibitor of sEH, with an IC50 of 33.5 ± 0.5 μM. Additional active components, including harpagide, tryptophan, and 8-acetate-harpagide, along with acteoside, were tentatively identified using high‐performance liquid chromatography photodiode array tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–PDA–MS/MS) and quantified using an ultraviolet detector at 210 nm. Further, an ultrasonic-assisted extraction technique for extraction of four bioactive compounds in SSM was developed and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal extraction conditions were: extraction time, 30.46 minutes; extraction temperature, 67.95 °C, and methanol concentration 53.85%. The prediction model of RSM was validated with laboratory experiments. The similarity between predicted and actual values was 97.84%. The extraction method is thus a rapid, environment-friendly, energy-saving method can be applied to extract bioactive components from SSM in large quantities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, antimutagenic effects of ethanolic extracts of Stachys thirkei and Stachys annua subsp. annua belonging to Lamiaceae family that grow in Duzce of Turkey were investigated on Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains without metabolic activation using Salmonella/microsome test system. Three different concentrations (0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 mg/plate) of the ethanolic extracts of S. thirkei and S. annua subsp. were used as active materials in which the major components were 2-ethylhexanol (30.012%) and 2-beta-pinene (26.40%), respectively. The highest concentration (0.1 mg/plate) of S. thirkei had a moderate antimutagenic effect on the Salmonella typhimurium TA98 strain with a 26.79% inhibition rate. It was also established that the extract of S. thirkei at highest concentration (0.1 mg/plate) exhibited strong antimutagenic effect (with 44.03% maximum inhibition) on TA100 strain. Furthermore, it was found that 0.05 mg/plate ethanolic extract showed moderate antimutagenic activity with 25.55% inhibition rate. The highest concentration (0.1 mg/plate) of ethanolic extract of S. annua subsp. showed moderate antimutagenic activity on both Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains with inhibition rates of 20.39 and 22.13%, respectively. No antimutagenic activity on Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains was observed at the lowest doses of both plant species. As a result, it is concluded that S. thirkei and annua subsp. have antimutagenic activity and further studies may be recommended in terms of different parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) of Stachys byzantina, S. hissarica and S. betoniciflora growing in Uzbekistan were determined, and their antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activity were assessed. A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed the presence of 143 metabolites accounting for 70.34, 76.78 and 88.63% of the total identified components of S. byzantina, S. hissarica and S. betoniciflora, respectively. Octadecanal (9.37%) was the most predominant in S. betoniciflora. However, n-butyl octadecenoate (4.92%) was the major volatile in S. byzantina. Benzaldehyde (5.01%) was present at a higher percentage in S. hissarica. A chemometric analysis revealed the ability of volatile profiling to discriminate between the studied Stachys species. The principal component analysis plot displayed a clear diversity of Stachys species where the octadecanal and benzaldehyde were the main discriminating markers. The antioxidant activity was evaluated in vitro using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azino bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric reducing power (FRAP), chelating and phosphomolybdenum (PBD). Moreover, the ability of the essential oils to inhibit both acetyl/butyrylcholinesterases (AChE and BChE), α-amylase, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase was assessed. The volatiles from S. hissarica exhibited the highest activity in both the ABTS (226.48 ± 1.75 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/g oil) and FRAP (109.55 ± 3.24 mg TE/g oil) assays. However, S. betoniciflora displayed the strongest activity in the other assays (174.94 ± 0.20 mg TE/g oil for CUPRAC, 60.11 ± 0.36 mg EDTA equivalent (EDTAE)/g oil for chelating and 28.24 ± 1.00 (mmol TE/g oil) for PBD. Regarding the enzyme inhibitory activity, S. byzantina demonstrated the strongest AChE (5.64 ± 0.04 mg galantamine equivalent (GALAE)/g oil) and tyrosinase inhibitory (101.07 ± 0.60 mg kojic acid equivalent (KAE)/g) activity. The highest activity for BChE (11.18 ± 0.19 mg GALAE/g oil), amylase inhibition (0.76 ± 0.02 mmol acarbose equivalent (ACAE)/g oil) and glucosidase inhibition (24.11 ± 0.06 mmol ACAE/g oil) was observed in S. betoniciflora. These results showed that EOs of Stachys species could be used as antioxidant, hypoglycemic and skincare agents.

Background. Renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) has a pivotal role in the progression of acute renal failure. Reactive oxygen species are considered the major constituents involved in the biochemical and pathophysiological changes that were shown during kidney I/R. The purpose of this study was to examine the renoprotective effects of Stachys pilifera ethanolic extract on oxidant-antioxidant status in renal I/R-injuries in male rats. Material and methods. Twenty-one male Wistar rats were arbitrarily distributed into 3 groups: sham control (SC), I/R, and I/R + Stachys pilifera ethanolic extract (500 mg/kg). The artery and vein of the right kidney were completely blocked, and the right kidney was completely removed in all groups. Then, the left kidney artery was blocked with suture thread for 30 minutes in only I/R and I/R + SP extract groups. Kidney function indices, oxidative stress markers, and hematoxylin and eosin staining were investigated in the plasma and kidney tissues. Results. It was shown that the urine Na and K, fractional excretion of Na and K, and protein carbonyl content markedly increased in the merely I/R group as compared to SC rats, while the administration of SP extract markedly reduced these indices (P < 0.05). Also, glomerular filtration rate and total thiol meaningfully reduced in the I/R rats in contrast to the SC group, while the treatment with SP extract markedly augmented these indices (P < 0.05). However, in agreement with renal function tests, SP extract had no significant effects on histopathological examinations. Conclusion. It seems that SP extract employs renoprotective effects on renal damage induced by I/R, possibly by improving of oxidant-antioxidant status in favor of the antioxidant system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachys glechomifolia (Lamiaceae), previously included under S. mardinensis as a synonym, is resurrected in this work based on extensive field and herbarium studies. In addition to its distribution in Turkey, S. mardinensis has firstly been recorded from Iran. Furthermore, the lectotypes of S. fragillima, S. graveolens, and S. kurdica var. brevidens are designated in this study. An expanded description and distribution map of S. glechomifolia, and some taxonomic notes on S. graveolens, S. fragillima, S. mardinensis, and S. nephrophylla are also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]