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Origanum onites L. (O. onites) is one of the cultivated Origanum species in Turkey. The aim of this study was to determine the cytotoxicity and cellular antioxidant effects of O. onites essential oil, carvacrol and p-cymene on HCT116 and HepG2 cells. O. onites essential oil components were analyzed by GC/MS and GC/FID. Cytotoxicity was analyzed via the MTT assay in HCT116 and HepG2 cells. Cellular antioxidant activities of O. onites essential oil, carvacrol and p-cymene were determined with DCFH-DA method. GC/MS analysis identified carvacrol (%78.4) as the main constituent of O. onites essential oil. 400 µg/ml concentration of O. onites essential oil, carvacrol and p-cymene were found to be active against HCT116 and HepG2 cells. Also, carvacrol showed higher cellular antioxidant activity than O. onites essential oil and p-cymene. We conclude that O. onites essential oil and carvacrol may be a candidate for pharmaceutical products in treatment of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is a challenging health problem. Salivary gland dysfunction is one of its complications. Current treatments possess numerous adverse effects. Therefore, herbal extracts have emerged as a promising approach for safe and effective treatment. However, they are required in large doses to achieve the desired effect. Accordingly, Origanum majorana extract (OE) was incorporated into nanosized systems to enhance its biological effects at lower dosages. OE was standardized against rosmarinic acid (RA) and then loaded into nano-cubosomal (NC) systems via a 2³ full-factorial design. Two optimum nano-systems at different drug loads (2.08 or 1.04mg-RA/mL) were selected and assessed in vivo to compare their effects in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats against conventional OE (2.08 mg-RA/mL). Blood glucose was evaluated weekly. Submandibular salivary glands were processed for histopathological examination and nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Kelch-like ECHassociated protein 1 (Keap1), and p38-MAPK gene expression analysis. NC systems were successfully prepared and optimized where the optimum systems showed nano-sized vesicles (210.4-368.3nm) and high zeta potential values. In vivo results showed a significant lower blood glucose in all treated groups, with an exceptional reduction with NC formulations. Marked histopathological improvement was observed in all OE-treated groups, with OE-NC4 (2.08 mg-RA/mL) demonstrating the best features. This was supported by RT-PCR; where the OE-NC4 group recorded the highest mean value of Nrf2 and the least mean values of Keap1 and p38-MAPK, followed by OE-NC3 and OE groups. In conclusion, OEloaded NC enhanced the anti-hyperglycemic effect of OE and ameliorated diabetic gland alterations compared to conventional OE. Thus, cubosomal nano-systems could be anticipated as potential carriers for the best outcome with OE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to determine the antimicrobial activities of two different aromatic plants (Origanum onites, Mentha spicata subs. tomentosa) essential oils, and their nanoemulsion formulations against six common fish pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas veronii, Vibrio alginolyticus, Yersinia ruckeri, and Lactococcus garvieae. The main components of Mentha spicata subs. tomentosa essential oil (MEO) were piperitone (25.01%), eucalyptol (1,8-cineole) (19.53%), pulegone (14.50%) and, Piperitenone (10.98%). The major components of Origanum onites essential oil (OEO) which were carvacrol (46.17%) and, p-cymene (13.05%) were detected. The antibacterial effects of OEO and MEO and their nanoemulsions were determined by using the agar disc diffusion method. The OEO and its nanoemulsions were extremely effective against the Gram-negative Aeromonas veronii than the positive control (enrofloxacin). In addition, it was observed that OEO nanoemulsion was more effective than OEO in terms of antibacterial activity. MEO and its nanoemulsions were found to have low activity against fish pathogens, however, there was no activity on Aeromonas veronii and Lactococcus garvieae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Origanum vulgare administration on testicular injury induced by torsion/detorsion . Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 64 adult rats were divided into 8 equal groups, as following:1-Sham: the abdominal cavity was opened and then closed. 2.Torsion/detorsion: the rats underwent spermatic cord twisting for 4 hours and then untwisting (30 minutes before untwisting normal saline was injected). 3.Torsion/detorsion+ Origanum vulgare: Similar to group 2, the only difference was injections of Origanum vulgare with different doses (400 mg/kg, 250, 100) which were given to 3 separate groups. 4. Origanum vulgare recipient: without any surgery, injections of Origanum vulgare were given to 3 separate groups with different doses (400 mg/kg, 250, 100). Twenty-four hours after surgery, blood samples were taken to measure oxidative stress factors. Testicular tissue was removed for assessment of histological changes, and the epididymis tissue was used to measure sperm parameters. Data were analyzed by SPSS software. Results: We found significant decreases in Johnson's score, epithelium height, and seminiferous tubule diameter (data obtained from histological examination), number and morphology of sperm parameters and oxidative stress factors (Malondialdehyde, Superoxide dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase and, Catalase) in the torsion/detorsion group compared to those in the sham group (P= 0.0001), while they improved in the torsion/detorsion groups receiving Origanum vulgare group compared to those in the torsion/detorsion group, but in most cases, the results were not significant. Conclusion: It seems that Origanum vulgare can partially reduce the damage caused by testicular torsion/detorsion.

[Display omitted] • The charatrization was done by UV-Vis, FE-SEM and FT-IR. • The nanopariicles indicated the therapeutic effects. • The nanopariicles indicated the antioxidant effects. This research details the synthesis of biogenic silver nanoparticles utilizing Origanum majorana as a supporting material. The leaves of the plant served as a natural reducing agent and a proficient stabilizer for the generated silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The formulated NPs were analyzed through the analysis of their physicochemical properties utilizing UV–Vis, FT-IR, and FE-SEM techniques. The investigation of the antioxidant characteristics of the Ag NPs was followed using the DPPH assay. The results revealed that the silver nanoparticles exhibited considerable antioxidant activity, as evidenced by the IC 50 value. Recent findings suggest that the effectiveness of nanoparticles in treating human breast cancer can be linked to their antioxidant characteristics. An evaluation was followed on the ability of biologically synthesized Ag NPs to combat breast cancer in various cell lines. The silver nanoparticles exhibited significant anti-breast cancer properties, successfully eradicating the MCF10 cancer cell line in a manner that was influenced by both time and concentration, as assessed through the MTT assay. Ag NPs facilitate cell apoptosis, a process linked to elevated levels of pro-apoptotic markers, including Bax and cleaved caspase-8, while concurrently reducing the concentration of the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles exhibit a decrease in colony formation in comparison to the respective control group. The examination of molecular pathways in cells exposed to Ag NPs revealed a significant elevation in p53 expression, coupled with a decrease in both total and phosphorylated levels of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) in the studied cell lines. This suggests that p53 and STAT3 play essential roles in the biological responses triggered by the extract in human breast cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In vitro plantlets of Origanum majorana exhibit photomixotrophic cultivation. • The sucrose concentration affected the in vitro accumulation of arbutin. • Ventilation and wavelength affected the growth, pigments and arbutin content. • Arbutin accumulation was higher in the 30%B:70%R and where there is a red light. • Monochromatic light blue, green and yellow have lower arbutin content. The ventilation system using porous membranes allows for better plantlet growth and increased survival during the acclimatization phase. The objective was to investigate the effect of alternative membrane system and wavelength on the growth and accumulation of arbutin in vitro plantlets of Origanum majorana. Nodal segments containing a pair of leaves were cultivated in vitro using MS culture medium and an alternative membrane system consisting of four porous membranes. Sucrose was added at concentrations of 0, 7.5, 15, and 30 g. Another experiment was conducted using four porous membranes supplemented with 15 g l -1 of sucrose and under different light-emitting diodes (LEDs): white LED (W); blue (B); green (G); yellow (Y); red (R); a combination of blue and red (50%B:50%R; 30%B:70%R; 70%B:30%R). Marjoram (Origanum majorana) plantlets exhibit photomixotrophic growth, with a medium containing 15 g of sucrose, and an alternative membrane system with 4 porous membranes promoting increased growth. The sucrose concentration influenced the accumulation of arbutin. The wavelength, in conjunction with the use of a membrane system, affected the growth, concentration of photosynthetic pigments, and accumulation of arbutin in marjoram plantlets. The highest biomass accumulation and arbutin synthesis were induced by the 30%B:70%R spectrum combination, while lower biomass and accumulation were observed under the monochromatic blue spectrum. Improving factors such as ventilation, wavelength, and sucrose can lead to more efficient resource use, reducing costs and increasing the yield of arbutin in vitro. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, potatoes are an essential food crop; however, substantial post-harvest losses due to sprouting during storage have been a significant issue. Chemical sprout suppressants have been widely used to extend potato dormancy and reduce or eliminate sprouting in storage. However, chlorpropham (CIPC), the most effective and the most widely used chemical suppressant worldwide has been banned in the European Union and other countries due to potential health and environmental risks. Essential oils (EOs) from various plants have been investigated and are being used as environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic chemical suppressors. This study aimed to investigate EOs that were not previously tested for preventing potato sprout suppression at room temperature. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of twenty EOs in three potato cultivars, Ranger Russet, Terra Rosa, and TrailBlazer minitubers, on the suppression of sprouts at room temperature. The results showed that Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl and Origanum majorana L. EOs suppressed sprouting in all potato cultivars throughout the storage period while maintaining potato quality during storage. Furthermore, Lavandula x intermedia Emeric ex Loisel. EO showed the ability to shorten and restrict sprouts relative to the controls. The GC analysis of C. camphora EO identified eight constituents with linalool being the dominant one at 95.5 %, whereas the main EO constituents of O. majorana were terpinen-4-ol (40.3 %), γ -terpinene (14.6 %), sabinene (7.2 %), α -terpinene (6.9 %), para cymene (6.2 %), and limonene (4.1 %) in addition to other compounds. 1,8-Cineole and linalool were the major compounds in L. x intermedia EO. This work is the first report on these specific EOs as sprout suppressors. These EOs offer a potential for environmentally safe substitutes to conventional sprout inhibitors for potato storage and could be utilized in the development of commercial products for potato sprout control at room temperature. • This study evaluated 20 essential oils as sprout suppressors in potato. • Cinnamomum camphora, Origanum majorana , Lavandula x intermedia were the most effective. • Results demonstrated cultivar-specific responses to essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the global rise of antimicrobial resistance enhanced by the COVID-19 pandemic, where Acinetobacter baumannii has been distinguished as an emerging multi-resistant pathogen, essential oils, become the focus of novel therapeutic approaches. Hypothesizing that encapsulated Origanum heracleoticum L. and Thymus vulgaris L. essential oils could express multi-target approach against A. baumannii , this study aimed to develop microencapsulated systems with optimal technological qualities using 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin as a carrier, and to evaluate their pharmacological potential against A. baumannii , and their morphological and physicochemical characteristics, safety and stability profiles. The highest yield and encapsulation efficiency were obtained with 1:10 essential oil to carrier, and 1.5:10 carrier to water w/w ratios. The formation of inclusion complexes was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Both microencapsulates achieved improved homogeneity, particle surface, and thermal stability compared with the pure carrier. Dominant bioactive compounds (carvacrol and p -cymene in O. heracleoticum essential oil, and thymol and p -cymene in T. vulgaris essential oil) remained the most abundant after encapsulation. While non-encapsulated essential oils revealed similar antimicrobial activity towards clinical A. baumannii isolates obtained from COVID-19 patients, encapsulated O. heracleoticum essential oil inhibited the bacterial growth at lower concentrations than T. vulgaris essential oil microencapsulate. All samples significantly reduced the formation of A. baumannii biofilm, for at least 53.90% towards the most infective isolate according to the Caenorhabditis elegans assay. Further, in silico molecular docking study revealed strong interaction pattern of carvacrol and thymol with the outer membrane protein A, which is the main factor for the A. baumannii biofilm formation. Cytotoxicity investigation on human lung A549 cells showed high survival rate in the presence of all tested concentrations, and the stability study revealed notable preservation of the bioactives' content and pharmacological potential. Altogether, microencapsulated essential oils exhibited a multi-target approach towards A. baumannii , with satisfactory preserving capability during storage. • Acinetobacter baumannii is emerging bacteria with growing antimicrobial resistance. • Oregano and thyme essential oils showed multi-target approach against A. baumannii. • Microencapsulation of essential oils - promising tool against bacterial resistance. • Microencapsulated essential oils notably inhibited bacterial biofilm formation. • Microencapsulation is efficient method for preserving stability of essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, chitosan particles were used to encapsulate marjoram phenolic compounds as colon-specific drug-delivery systems. The microparticles were prepared by ionic gelation and spray-drying techniques and varying amounts of polymer and extract, along with different method conditions. The spray drying of microparticles (0.75% low molecular weight chitosan dissolved in 0.4% of acetic acid) presented the best encapsulation efficiency (near 75%), with size ranges from 1.55 to 1.68 µm that allowed the encapsulation of 1.25–1.88 mg/mL of extract. Release studies of individual marjoram phenolic compounds at pH 2 and 7.4 showed that most of the compounds remained encapsulated in the microparticles. Only arbutin and vicenin II presented a high initial burst release. As the polarity of the compounds was reduced, their initial release decreased. In addition, after gastrointestinal digestion, most of marjoram phenolic compounds remained encapsulated. These results prove that chitosan microparticlescould protect the marjoram phenolic compounds during gastrointestinal digestion, specifically those related to anticancer activity, which enables their application as colon-specific delivery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposes of this investigatory study were to determine the chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) of Origanum compactum from two Moroccan regions (Boulemane and Taounate), as well as the evaluation of their biological effects. Determining EOs' chemical composition was performed by a gas chromatography–mass spectrophotometer (GC-MS). The antioxidant activity of EOs was evaluated using free radical scavenging ability (DPPH method), fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays. The anti-inflammatory effect was assessed in vitro using the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) inhibition test and in vivo using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Finally, the antibacterial effect was evaluated against several strains using the disk-diffusion assay and the micro-dilution method. The chemical constituent of O. compactum EO (OCEO) from the Boulemane zone is dominated by carvacrol (45.80%), thymol (18.86%), and α-pinene (13.43%). However, OCEO from the Taounate zone is rich in 3-carene (19.56%), thymol (12.98%), and o-cymene (11.16%). OCEO from Taounate showed higher antioxidant activity than EO from Boulemane. Nevertheless, EO from Boulemane considerably inhibited 5-LOX (IC50 = 0.68 ± 0.02 µg/mL) compared to EO from Taounate (IC50 = 1.33 ± 0.01 µg/mL). A similar result was obtained for tyrosinase inhibition with Boulemane EO and Taounate EO, which gave IC50s of 27.51 ± 0.03 μg/mL and 41.83 ± 0.01 μg/mL, respectively. The in vivo anti-inflammatory test showed promising effects; both EOs inhibit and reduce inflammation in mice. For antibacterial activity, both EOs were found to be significantly active against all strains tested in the disk-diffusion test, but O. compactum EO from the Boulemane region showed the highest activity. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) for O. compactum EO from the Boulemane region ranged from 0.06 to 0.25% (v/v) and from 0.15 to 0.21% (v/v) for O. compactum from the Taounate region. The MBC/MIC index revealed that both EOs exhibited remarkable bactericidal effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was aimed to produce the nanoparticles of zinc oxide (ZnO) utilising the Origanum majorana leaf extract. Moreover, the antioxidant and anticancer potential of the produced ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) was determined. The 32-nm spherical nanoparticles significantly exhibited antioxidant activity. The cytotoxicity showed the IC50 concentrations of 16.8 ± 6.7, 194.3 ± 5.84 and 33.5 µg/ml during 48-hour treatment in both human breast (MCF7) and colon (HT-29) cancer cells compared with the normal cell line (HFF). The cells' morphological analysis (detachment, destruction, shrinkage and plasma membrane blebbing), fluorescent (Acridine orange/Propidium Iodide) cell staining result, Bax gene overexpression, BCl2 down-regulation, and enhanced sub-G1 peaks in treated MCF7 cells confirmed the occurrence of apoptosis death, which suggested that the biosynthesised ZnO-NPs has the potential to be used as a promising anticancer agent against breast cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origanum vulgare, belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is a principal culinary herb used worldwide which possesses great antioxidant and antibacterial properties corresponding to various volatile organic components (VOCs). However, the metabolite profiles and underlying biosynthesis mechanisms of elaborate tissues (stems, leaves, bracts, sepals, petals) of Origanum vulgare have seldom been reported. Here, solid-phase microextraction–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry results showed that Origanum vulgare 'Hot and Spicy' (O. vulgare 'HS') was extremely rich in carvacrol and had the tissue dependence characteristic. Moreover, a full-length transcriptome analysis revealed carvacrol biosynthesis and its tissue-specific expression patterns of 'upstream' MVA/MEP pathway genes and 'downstream' modifier genes of TPSs, CYPs, and SDRs. Furthermore, the systems biology method of modular organization analysis was applied to cluster 16,341 differently expressed genes into nine modules and to identify significant carvacrol- and peltate glandular trichome-correlated modules. In terms of these positive and negative modules, weighted gene co-expression network analysis results showed that carvacrol biosynthetic pathway genes are highly co-expressed with TF genes, such as ZIPs and bHLHs, indicating their involvement in regulating the biosynthesis of carvacrol. Our findings shed light on the tissue specificity of VOC accumulation in O. vulgare 'HS' and identified key candidate genes for carvacrol biosynthesis, which would allow metabolic engineering and breeding of Origanum cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterized by decreased insulin synthesis and/or increased blood glucose due to insulin resistance. In this study, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were evaluated and it was aimed to investigate the protective effects of Origanum onites L. (OO) against possible changes in these parameters. Male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 300-400g were divided into three groups control (C), diabetes mellitus (DM) and diabetes mellitus + OO (OO group). DM was induced by administration of STZ 60 mg/kg dose intraperitoneally (i.p.) after 48 hours, rats with blood glucose values higher than 200 mg/dL were considered DM. Origanum extract was administered i.p. to the OO group at 50 mg/kg per day for 6 weeks. Serum AST, ALT, creatinine, and inflammatory cytokine levels were measured. MDA and GSH levels were measured in liver tissues. AST, ALT, creatinine, and MDA levels were found to be increased in the DM group, while a significant decrease in these levels was observed in the treated group. While GSH values fell in the DM group, a significant increase occurred in the OO group (n=6, p<0.0001; two-way ANOVA). When the plasma levels of cytokines were examined, an increase was observed in the DM group and a significant decrease was observed in the OO group. When we evaluate our findings, we think that OO has a protective effect against complications that may occur in DM by preventing oxidant damage and inflammation. Further studies are needed on the protective effects of OO in DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases are increasing worldwide, and new drugs to treat them effectively with fewer side effects are in high demand today. Treatments available for these diseases are associated with significant side effects in the long term. Therefore, finding a therapy that inhibits disease progression with fewer side effects is crucial. Origanum majorana commonly called sweet marjoram was reported to have a wide range of health benefits particularly in treating neurological diseases. In this context, the leaf extract of Origanum majorana was evaluated for its antioxidant, antiparkinson's and neuroprotective properties. The antioxidant property was assessed by two in-vitro methods, nitric oxide radical scavenging assay and phosphomolybdenum assay. The antiparkinson's property was assessed in haloperidol-induced Parkinson's disease in mice using the catalepsy bar test and rotarod test. The results of this study show that Origanum Majorana has a powerful antioxidant property that can protect neurons from haloperidol-induced cognitive and motor impairments by reducing oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 2% black cumin, 1% black cumin (Nigella damascena L–Damascus black cumin), 1% rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis), and 1% black cumin and 1% thyme (Origanum onites L.–Izmir thyme) were added to whey cheese with a short shelf life and cheese samples stored in different packaging materials (goat‐skin bags and artificial casing). pH levels and titratable acidity, degree of proteolysis, microbiological, and sensory attributes of the samples were examined. In 20 days of storage, the pH values of whey cheese with black cumin stored in goat‐skin bags were statistically higher (ranged 6.34–5.30) than other samples (ranged 6.32–4.10). Proteolytic activity values were higher (0.34–0.58 mg/ml serine) in cheese samples containing black cumin and thyme in both packaging materials (p <.05). After 30 days of storage, black cumin and thyme‐added cheese packaged in goat‐skin bags have the highest Lactobacillus spp. count (8.64 log CFU/g), while cheese containing black cumin and thyme (6.32 log CFU/g) filled into an artificial casing has the least. Based on the results of sensory analysis, the samples containing black cumin were generally more preferred while cheese with rosemary had the lowest sensory scores. In conclusion, the difference in packaging materials has a significant effect on the physicochemical and microbiology properties and proteolytic activity of whey cheese produced by adding different plants. However, the sensory properties of whey cheese are influenced by the plants used rather than the differences in packaging materials. Novelty impact statement: Turkish whey (Lor) cheese is food with limited storage time and rapid microbial spoilage. Black cumin, rosemary, and thyme were added to whey cheese. Black cumin, rosemary, and thyme have been added to whey cheese and this limited storage period has been tried to be extended. In addition, the effects of goat‐skin and artificial casing packages on physicochemical and sensory properties were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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There is a crucial necessity for the formulation of efficient antimicrobial agents owing to the increasing prevalence of hospital-acquired bacterial infections triggered by multidrug-resistant microbes that result in significant deaths and illnesses around the world. Hence, the current investigation examined the antibacterial proficiency of zinc oxide nanoparticles formulated utilizing the green route against bacterial strains that were resistant to multiple drugs. In addition, the synergistic antibacterial action of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) combined with colistin was investigated against the tested microbial strains to determine the efficiency of the bioinspired ZnO nanoparticles in boosting the antibacterial proficiency of colistin antibiotic. Incidentally, the bioinspired ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized using water extract of Origanum majorana leaves and these nanomaterials were physicochemically characterized using different analytical techniques. The bioactivity of the synthesized nanomaterials against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains was appraised using the agar diffusion method. The biogenic ZnO NPs at a concentration of 100 μg/disk revealed a compelling antimicrobial efficacy against the tested strains, expressing the maximum antimicrobial action against Escherichia coli strain with clear zone diameter of 38.16 ± 0.18 mm. The remarkable antibacterial proficiency might be accredited to the tiny particle size of the bioformulated ZnO NPs of 12.467 ± 1.36 nm. The net charge of ZnO nanomaterials was −14.8 mV while XRD analysis confirmed their hexagonal wurtzite structure. Furthermore, the bioformulated ZnO NPs showed a promising synergistic potency with colistin demonstrating respective synergism proportions of 91.05, 79.07, 75.04, 75.25, 56.28 and 10.60% against E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Salmonella typhimurium, Enterobacter cloacae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. In conclusion, the water extract of O. majorana leaves mediated green formulation of zinc oxide nanoparticles with unique physicochemical characteristics and effective antibacterial proficiency against the examined drug-resistant bacterial strains. These nanomaterials could be used in the synthesis of effective antibacterial coatings to control hospital acquired infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of dietary Origanum syriacum L. and Teucrium polium L., alone and in combination, on the quality and stability of raw broiler meat were evaluated. Broilers (N=140) were reared for 21 days, divided into five groups under completely randomized design receiving one of five dietary treatments (w/w): 1) Control, 2) 1.5% germander (GER), 3) 2.5% oregano (ORE), 4) 1.5% ORE combined with 2.5% GER (CM), 5) 0.02% butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Meat was stored under refrigeration at 4 °C for up to 7 days, and analyzed for thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), protein oxidation, and CIE color values at 0, 4, and 7 days. A similar procedure was used for sensory evaluation and other quality measurements. Both CM and ORE treatments had the significant effect (P = 0.05) on decreasing TBARS values. In addition, CM treatment had the greatest anti-carbonyl effect and exhibited the greatest stabilizing effect on L* values at day 7. CM and ORE treatments were also best able to maintain a* values. The preservative effect of ORE and CM was significantly higher (P = 0.05), retarding the development of off-odor and rancidity. In conclusion, the current CM level still needs further investigation to be recommended as a commercial additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the second most common cancer overall. In women, BC is the most prevalent cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Triple-negative BC (TNBC) is the most aggressive BC, being resistant to hormonal and targeted therapies. Hypothesis/Purpose: The medicinal plant Origanum syriacum L. is a shrubby plant rich in bioactive compounds and widely used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. However, its therapeutic potential against BC remains poorly investigated. In the present study, we screened the phytochemical content of an ethanolic extract of O. syriacum (OSEE) and investigated its anticancer effects and possible underlying mechanisms of action against the aggressive and highly metastatic human TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231. Methods: MTT, trans-well migration, and scratch assays were used to assess cell viability, invasion, or migration, respectively. Antioxidant potential was evaluated in vitro using the DPPH radical-scavenging assay and levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed in cells in culture using DHE staining. Aggregation assays were used to determine cell-cell adhesion. Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle progression. Protein levels of markers of apoptosis (BCL-2, pro-Caspase3, p53), proliferation (p21, Ki67), cell migration, invasion, or adhesion (FAK, E-cadherin), angiogenesis (iNOS), and cell signaling (STAT3, p38) were determined by immunoblotting. A chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) assay evaluated in ovo angiogenesis. Results: We demonstrated that OSEE had potent radical scavenging activity in vitro and induced the generation of ROS in MDA-MB-231 cells, especially at higher OSEE concentrations. Non-cytotoxic concentrations of OSEE attenuated cell proliferation and induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, which was associated with phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, an increase in the levels of tumor suppressor protein p21, and a decrease of proliferation marker protein Ki67. Additionally, only higher concentrations of OSEE were able to attenuate inhibition of proliferation induced by the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), indicating that the anti-proliferative effects of OSEE could be ROS-dependent. OSEE stimulated apoptosis and its effector Caspase-3 in MDA-MB-231 cells, in correlation with activation of the STAT3/p53 pathway. Furthermore, the extract reduced the migration and invasive properties of MDA-MB-231 cells through the deactivation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). OSEE also reduced the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and inhibited in ovo angiogenesis. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that OSEE is a rich source of phytochemicals and has robust anti-breast cancer properties that significantly attenuate the malignant phenotype of MD-MB-231 cells, suggesting that O. syriacum may not only act as a rich source of potential TNBC therapeutics but may also provide new avenues for the design of novel TNBC drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alarming spread of antimicrobial resistance has enticed researchers to search for new effective antimicrobial compounds from natural products. In this study, two plants endemic to Lebanon, Origanum libanoticum and Berberis libanotica, were selected due to their numerous uses in traditional medicine. Methanolic extracts were prepared from plant aerial parts and the chemical composition was analyzed by Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). Origanum libanoticum exhibited a strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) 1.56–12.5 mg/mL), Escherichia coli (MIC 1.56–25 mg/mL), Pseudomonas strains (MIC 6.25–25 mg/mL), Klebsiella strains (MIC 3.12–25 mg/mL) and the lowest antibacterial activity was against Acinetobacter strains (MIC between 3.12 and 50 mg/mL). Similarly, B. libanotica showed a strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus strains (MIC 1.56-6.25 mg/mL), E. coli (MIC 0.78-6.25 mg/mL), Klebsiella strains (MIC 0.78-6.25 mg/mL) and Pseudomonas strains (MIC 1.56–12.5 mg/mL). The methanolic extracts showed strong scavenging activity at 0.5 mg.mL−1. Berberis libanotica was further fractionated with solvents of different polarity. MICs ranged between 0.47 and 7.5 mg/mL for different fractions tested. Both extracts exhibit a promising antibacterial activity. More work is needed to identify the active compound(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of chemical pesticides to protect agricultural products is a global concern because of their adverse effects on the environment and public health. To avoid the dangers of synthetic herbicides, research has turned to natural alternatives. This study was conducted to evaluate the allelopathic effect of essential oil (EO) extracted from Origanum syriacum, Origanum onites, and Origanum majorana. In addition, the chemical composition of the essential oil was elucidated by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. A total of 11 different components of O.syriacum were identified, and the main components were carvacrol (88.49), p-Cymene (5.71), γ-Terpinene (1.63), β-Caryoplhyllene (1.48), and Terpinen-4-ol (0.65), respectively. For O. onites, 10 different compounds were identified, and the main components were carvacrol (58.65), Thymol (30.97), Linalool (4.17), p-Cymene (1.94), and β-Caryoplhyllene (0.98), respectively. Finally, for O. majorana, 14 different compounds were identified, and the main components were carvacrol (40.57), α-Terpineol (29.28), p-Cymene (9.02), γ-Terpinene (5.80), and carvacrol methyl ether (3.46). Finally, 14 compounds from the Origanum majorana species were identified, with carvacrol (40.57), -Terpineol (29.28), p-Cymene (9.02), and -Terpinene (5.80) as the parent compound (3.46). Oxygenated monoterpenes were the highest in all species' EO content. EOs and plant extracts were tested at 5, 10, and 20 L/Petri concentrations against seed germination and seedling growth in four weed species (Thlaspi arvense, Amaranthus retroflexus, Rumex cripus, and Lactuca serriola). The concentrations of essential oil were set as 5, 10, and 20 µL/Petri dishes for seed germination. In the greenhouse experiment, the final concentration of solutions was set as 20 µL and the solutions were directly sprayed on the surface of the weeds, and the mortality rates were noted after 24 and 48 h of application. It was observed that increasing the application decreased seed germination. The phytotoxic effects on the seedling germination in the greenhouse were observed, resulting in 48.76–94% mortality rates. Consequently, the essential oil from Origanum species could be considered as an alternative bio-herbicide to tested weeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the antimicrobial effects of natural essential oils (EO) and determine their preservative action. Eight natural essential oils were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans representing gram positive, gram negative, and fungi, respectively. The plant materials were used in this study viz. Thymus vulgaris—thyme (TV), Mentha virdis (MV), Mentha longifolia (ML), Rosmarinus officinalis—rosemary (RO), Lavandula dentata—lavender (LD), Origanum majorana—oregano (OM), which belong to the Lamiaceae family. The other two plants were Cymbopogon citratus—lemon grass (family Poaceae) (CC), and Eucalyptus globulus (family Myrtaceae) (EG). Employing the disc diffusion susceptibility test, minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentrations were estimated for each oil, followed by the addition of oils to pasteurized apple juice after microbial induction. The results revealed that thyme oil showed the maximum zone of inhibition against all tested microbes enriched with monoterpenes class viz. eucalyptol (24.3%), thymol (17.4%), and γ-terpinene (15.2%). All other tested oils exhibited a concentration-dependent inhibition of growth and their MIC ranged from 0.1 to 100 µL/mL. The recorded minimum bactericidal concentration values were apparently double the minimum inhibitory concentration. The EO of Mentha virdis followed by Mentha longifolia showed maximum antimicrobial activity against the tested organisms in pasteurized apple juice. A gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis of lemon grass, thyme, and Mentha virdis essential oils showed their enrichment with monoterpenes class recording 97.10, 97.04, and 97.61%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origanum vulgare L. (oregano) is an aromatic plant with wide applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Cronobacter sakazakii, which has a high detection rate in powdered infant formula, adversely impacts susceptible individuals. Oregano essential oil (OEO) is a natural antibacterial agent that can be used to fight bacterial contamination. Here, OEO chemical compounds from eight oregano varieties were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and their antibacterial properties were assessed. The eight OEOs were clustered into two groups and were more diverse in group 2 than in group 1. Six compounds, including p-cymene, 3-thujene, γ-terpinene, thymol, carvacrol, and caryophyllene, were shared by eight OEOs. Among the eight oregano varieties, OEOs from O. vulgare sc2 had the strongest antibacterial activity against C. sakazaki, with the inhibition zone of 18.22mm. OEOs from O. vulgare jx, O. 'Nvying', O. vulgare 'Ehuang', and O. vulgare ssp. virens were also potent. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of OEOs was positively correlated with the relative content of thymol. As the main OEO antibacterial compound, thymol affected the normal growth and metabolism of C. sakazakii cells by destroying the bacterial membrane and decreasing the intracellular ATP concentration. Thus, in light of the antibacterial activity detected in the OEOs from the eight oregano varieties, this study provides a theoretical foundation for oregano cultivar management and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of marjoram extract on oocyte maturation and gene expression in sheep oocytes and embryos. The first experiment studied the effect of the extract as an antioxidant to improve the in vitro maturation media used for sheep oocytes; the oocytes were matured in a TCM199 medium supplemented with 1 or 10 µg/mL of marjoram extract or the control, 0 µg, for 24 hr. Then, the maturation was estimated, and the gene expression was measured by using qPCR. The second experiment studied the effect of the extract on the development of sheep embryos produced in vitro; the fertilized oocytes were cultured in a SOF medium supplemented with 1 or 10 µg/mL of marjoram extract or the control, 0 µg, for 7 days. Then, the gene expression was measured using qPCR. The results showed that the marjoram extract did not improve nuclear maturation or the blastocyst rate. There was a significant increase in the level of GDF-9 gene expression in mature oocytes in the treatment groups. An increase in the expression of BCL-2 and EGR-1 genes was observed for the blastocysts in the 10 µg/mL group. We concluded that the marjoram extract did not improve nuclear maturation, but it did affect the expression of some genes in sheep oocytes and embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of eco-friendly fertilizers is increasingly perceived as a sustainable avenue for improving the quantity and quality of medicinal and aromatic plants. Here, we investigated how intercropping and bio-fertilizer application impacted the productivity and essential oil quality of mung bean and marjoram. Treatments were conducted using mung bean monocropping (MBm) and marjoram monocropping (Om), as well as additive intercropping ratios (100% marjoram + 15% mung bean (O/15MB), 100% marjoram + 30% mung bean (O/30MB), 100% marjoram + 45% mung bean (O/45MB), 100% marjoram + 60% mung bean (O/60MB)), each with/without application of biofertilizers (mycorrhiza fungi and bacteria fertilizer). We found that N, P and K content in marjoram and mung bean was highest in the intercropped O/30MB and O/45MB. The maximum land equivalent ratio (LER) index (1.6) was recorded for the O/15MB treatment following biofertilizer application, indicating that 59% more area in the monocropping treatment would be required to achieve the same yield as for the intercropping treatments. The maximum content of carvacrol, p-cymene and carvacrol methyl ether was obtained for the O/45MB treatment under biofertilizer. These results indicate that intercropping of marjoram/mung bean (especially O/45MB) along with biofertilizer application may pave the way towards more sustainable agronomy for improving essential oil quantity and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils of Origanum majorana and Satureja thymbra as well as carvacrol are natural products that are known to have potent antioxidant activities. The current study was designed to investigate the role of the antioxidant properties of these natural products in their acaricidal activities against Rhipicephalus annulatus larvae. The synergistic and/or antagonistic effects of the addition of vitamins E and C and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to these natural products were also evaluated. Larval packet tests were used to evaluate the acaricidal activities against the larvae of R. annulatus. The antioxidant effectiveness of these products was determined by a DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging assay. The addition of vitamin E at 100 mg/mL to O. majorana and S. thymbra decreased the concentrations required to achieve the death of half of the larvae (LC50) to 0.44 and 0.47%, respectively. The combination of O. majorana and S. thymbra attained the LC50 at 1.54% which was decreased to 0.69% after addition of vitamin E. Also, the addition of vitamin E to carvacrol reduced the LC50 to 0.27%. The total antioxidant activity of these natural products increased significantly in presence of vitamin E. The addition of H2O2 inhibited the acaricidal activity of all tested materials, especially at low concentrations. All treatments induced an increase in lipid peroxidation, whereas carvacrol-treated larvae revealed the lowest values for the superoxide dismutase. Glutathione peroxidase and catalase activity decreased in larvae treated with S. thymbra combined with vitamin E. In conclusion, the addition of vitamins E and C increased the acaricidal activities of the tested compounds, whereas the addition of H2O2 decreased these activities. The antioxidant activities of essential oils and their active components may play an important role in mediating their acaricidal activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oregano (Origanum syriacum) is popularly called za'atar in the Middle East region. It is widely used in the Mediterranean diet as an aromatic herb. This study aimed to evaluate the preservation effect of natural additives, vacuum packaging, and refrigeration on the quality traits of fresh oregano. In total, 132 fresh oregano samples were formulated and split into 4 groups (n = 33) labeled group A (100% fresh oregano leaves, Control), group B (fresh oregano 63.2%, 15% fresh onion, 20% oil, 1.8% salt), group C (fresh oregano 61.91%, 15% fresh Allium cepa, 20% oil, 1.8% salt, 1.29% sumac), and group D (fresh oregano 59.2%, 15% fresh Allium cepa, 20% corn oil, 1.8% salt, 4% lactic acid, ultimate pH 4.4). Different quality traits such as color index (L*a*b*), microbiological analysis (total aerobic, anaerobic, and psychrotrophic bacteria and yeasts and molds), and sensory features (taste, flavor, appearance, saltiness, and overall acceptance) were assessed during the storage period (42 days) for all groups. Our study showed that the addition of lactic acid (group D) exhibited a strong preservation effect against aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. In this context, group D had significantly lower aerobic and anaerobic bacterial counts (5.12 vs. 6.7, 6, and 6.7 log (cfu/g); p < 0.05) and (4.75 vs. 6.6, 6.1, 6.77 (cfu/g); p < 0.05) than group A, B, and C; respectively. Group D exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) lower psychrotrophic bacterial count (3.6 log (cfu/g)) during the whole period of storage compared with control. Group B had a lower redness index (a*) (−3.3 vs. −1.8, −1.65, −1.23; p < 0.05) than groups A, C, and D; respectively. In conclusion, our study showed that there is a possibility of improving the preservation of oregano (Origanum syriacum) by using lactic acid and sumac combined with vacuum packaging under refrigeration conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed-associated microbiota are believed to play a crucial role in seed germination, seedling establishment, and plant growth and fitness stimulation, due to the vertical transmission of a core microbiota from seeds to the next generations. It might be hypothesized that medicinal and aromatic plants could use the seeds as vectors to vertically transfer beneficial endophytes, providing plants with metabolic pathways that could influence phytochemicals production. Here, we investigated the localization, the structure and the composition of the bacterial endophytic population that resides in Origanum heracleoticum L. seeds. Endocellular bacteria, surrounded by a wall, were localized close to the aleurone layer when using light and transmission electron microscopy. From surface-sterilized seeds, cultivable endophytes were isolated and characterized through RAPD analysis and 16S RNA gene sequencing, which revealed the existence of a high degree of biodiversity at the strain level and the predominance of the genus Pseudomonas. Most of the isolates grew in the presence of six selected antibiotics and were able to inhibit the growth of clinical and environmental strains that belong to the Burkholderia cepacia complex. The endophytes production of antimicrobial compounds could suggest their involvement in plant secondary metabolites production and might pave the way to endophytes exploitation in the pharmaceutical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The purpose of this investigation was to determine ¹H-NMR profiling and antioxidant activity of the most common types of honey, namely, citrus honey (HC1) (Morcott tangerine L. and Jaffa orange L.), marjoram honey (HM1) (Origanum majorana L.), and clover honey (HT1) (Trifolium alexandrinum L.), compared to their secondary metabolites (HC2, HM2, HT2, respectively). By using a ¹H-NMR-based metabolomic technique, PCA, and PLS-DA multivariate analysis, we found that HC2, HM2, HC1, and HM1 were clustered together. However, HT1 and HT2 were quite far from these and each other. This indicated that HC1, HM1, HC2, and HM2 have similar chemical compositions, while HT1 and HT2 were unique in their chemical profiles. Antioxidation potentials were determined colorimetrically for scavenging activities against DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, 5-LOX, and metal chelating activity in all honey extract samples and their secondary metabolites. Our results revealed that HC2 and HM2 possessed more antioxidant activities than HT2 in vitro. HC2 demonstrated the highest antioxidant effect in all assays, followed by HM2 (DPPH assay: IC50 2.91, 10.7 μg/mL; ABTS assay: 431.2, 210.24 at 50 ug/mL Trolox equivalent; ORAC assay: 259.5, 234.8 at 50 ug/mL Trolox equivalent; 5-LOX screening assay/IC50: 2.293, 6.136 ug/mL; and metal chelating activity at 50 ug/mL: 73.34526%, 63.75881% inhibition). We suggest that the presence of some secondary metabolites in HC and HM, such as hesperetin, linalool, and caffeic acid, increased the antioxidant activity in citrus and marjoram compared to clover honey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to examine the chemical constituents of Origanum majorana L. essential oils (EOs) that originate in Nepal, as well as their biological activities, antioxidant properties, and enantiomeric compositions. The EOs were extracted by the hydro-distillation method using a Clevenger-type apparatus and their chemical compositions were determined through gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Chiral GC-MS was used to evaluate the enantiomeric compositions of EOs. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the essential oils were determined by the micro-broth dilution method, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging assay and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). GC-MS analysis showed the presence of 50 and 41 compounds in the EO samples, (S1) and (S2), respectively, representing the Kathmandu and Bhaktapur districts. The oxygenated monoterpenoids, along with terpinen-4-ol, were predominant constituents in both EO samples. However, the EOs from two locations showed some variations in their major components. The chiral terpenoids for two EO samples of marjoram have also been reported in this study in an elaborative way for the first time in accordance with the literature review. A hierarchical cluster analysis based on the compositions of EOs with 50 compositions reported in the literature revealed at least 5 different chemotypes of marjoram oil. The antioxidant activity for the sample (S2) was found to be relatively moderate, with an IC50 value of 225.61 ± 0.05 μg/mL and an EC50 value of 372.72 ± 0.84 µg/mL, as compared to the standard used. Furthermore, with an MIC value of 78.1 µg/mL, the EO from sample (S2) demonstrated effective antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. Moreover, both samples displayed considerable antimicrobial activity. The results suggest that EOs of Origanum majorana possess some noteworthy antimicrobial properties as well as antioxidant activity, and hence can be used as a natural preservative ingredient in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The combined effect of propolis and Origanum compactum essential oil has been evaluated against methicillin resistant S. aureus. • EEP and OCEO showed significant reduction in the growth rate of MRSA, and that as a function of concentration. • The combination of EEP and OCEO showed strong synergistic interaction, noticed by growth rate reduction and confirmed by RSM. • A mathematical model describing the growth of MRSA in presence of EEP and OCEO has been generated. Staphylococcus aureus is a commensal human pathogen responsible of several infectious diseases, especially nosocomial infections. Its rapid spread and ability to resist to environmental conditions make it a serious threat for public health. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined antibacterial effect of propolis extract and Origanum compactum essential (OCEO) against methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and to build a mathematical model predicting this effect. Propolis and OCEO were collected from the north of Morocco. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each product was determined by the microdilution method. The kinetics of MRSA growth was evaluated in absence and in presence of ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) and OCEO, each alone and in combination. The mathematical modelling was made by a polynomial regression. EEP and OCEO showed strong antibacterial activity against MRSA. The MIC of EEP was 0.625 mg/mL and the MIC of OCEO was 1%. The two products showed significant reduction in the growth rate of MRSA, and that as a function of concentration. The combination of EEP and OCEO showed strong synergistic interaction, noticed by growth rate reduction. A mathematical model describing the growth of MRSA in presence of EEP and OCEO was generated. By the negative signs of the coefficients of EEP and OCEO in the linear part, the model confirmed they synergistic interaction. From the obtained results it can be concluded that the combination of propolis extract and O. compactum EO is an interesting approach to control MRSA infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Valproic acid [VA] is an antiepileptic drug that is extensively prescribed for many neurological disorders. Its use is associated with serious pancreatic complications. Marjoram oil [MO] is a health protective agent with proved anti-oxidant activity. Aim: Study of the effect of valproic acid on pancreas of adult male albino rats exploring novel mechanisms of VA-induced pancreatic damage and to evaluate the potential protective role of marjoram oil. Materials and Methods: Fifty adult male albino rats were used as a control group, a valproic acid group and a valproic acidmarjoram group. Both VA [200mg/kg] and MO [0.5ml/kg] were given once a day orally for eight weeks. Specimens of the pancreas were processed for light and electron microscopic studies. Immunohistochemical study was performed using anti-P53 antibodies. Results: Specimens of the valproic acid group showed an obvious distortion in the pancreatic acini as well as the islets of Langerhans. The acinar and islets cells showed cytoplasmic vacuoles and pyknotic nuclei. Large autophagic vacuoles containing an acidophilic material appeared in many cells. Dilated ducts and blood vessels were seen. There was a significant increase in the P53-immunoreaction of the acinar and islets cells and a significant decrease in the number of the zymogen granules of the acinar cells. Ultrastructurally, there were shrunken nuclei with irregularity, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and swollen mitochondria in the acinar cells and beta cells. In contrast, minimal changes occurred in the valproic acid-marjoram group that received MO before VA. Conclusion: Valproic acid administration to albino rats resulted in significant structural alterations in the pancreas. Marjoram oil attenuated VA effect and preserved the pancreas structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid has been linked to significant reproductive damage in mammals. Origanum majorana essential oil (OME) is a natural herbal product used in the management of many diseases due to its strong antioxidant effects. The oil was hydrodistilled from O. Majorana and analyzed using GC/MS then its possible protective mechanisms against IMI-induced reprotoxicity in male rats were investigated. 28-adult male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups as follows: group (1) control group, group (2) OME, group (3) IMI, and group (4) IMI + OME. The treatments were applied daily via oral gavage for 60 days. Remarkable abnormalities in both territorial aggressive and sexual behaviors were observed in IMI-treated rats with a significant elevation of serum FSH and LH as well as altered testicular redox status. Along with inhibition of the testicular expression of StAR and aromatase genes and serum total testosterone in addition to abnormal sperm count, viability, motility, and morphology. Histopathological examination showed severe degeneration and necrosis in both germ cells and Leydig cells with atrophy in most of the seminiferous tubules. Co-administration of OME with IMI notably improved all the above-mentioned studied parameters, and restored rats' spermatogenesis, sexual behavior, and favorably modulates the levels of both testosterone and gonadotropic hormones via its potent antioxidant effect. These findings support the use of OME as a fertility enhancer and suggest that it could be used to manage pesticide-induced male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Marjoram leaves (Oregano vulgar) as a feed supplement on sexual efficiency and semen quality in Awasian pollination rams. The study was conducted on ten rams in one of the private fields in the Babylon governorate. The rams were divided randomly into two groups. First group rams are regarded as a control group (group A) that feeds on exceptional concentric food for pollination rams. The second group consists of 5 rams (group B) provided with the same concentric food plus a supplement of 3 mg/kg of body weight of Oregano vulgar leaves (fresh) 3 times daily for 49 days before the pollination season (April and May). Semen samples were collected at the end of 49 days by artificial vagina to evaluate the volume of ejaculate, sperm number, concentration, motility, viability, and deformities, and to measure the sperm pleomorphic parameters of the head, nucleus, and acrosome. The antioxidant status of seminal plasma was evaluated by measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). ELISA tests were used on blood serum samples to measure the hormone levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and estrogen. The study demonstrated a significant increase in motility, the viability of sperm, and decreasing deformities. There was no significant variation in perimorphic parameters of the head, nucleus, and acrosome sperm after using the fresh leaves of Oregano vulgar as supplementation to Awasion sheep. However, there was an increase in the antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPX, and TAC) in seminal plasma and an increase in LH, testosterone, and estrogen in the blood serum of experimental group B. These findings show that using fresh leaves of Oregano vulgar improved the sexual efficiency of pollinated rams and maintained the physiology and perimorphic parameters of semen and sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this four-year study was to compare the effects of flame weeding and spraying with glufosinate-ammonium on weed control in sweet marjoram field cultivation. The experiment was set up in a complete randomized four-replicate design with a plot area of 8 m2. Moreover, the content of essential oil in marjoram herb obtained from the control plants, as well as the composition of this oil were also studied. Marjoram emergence began 13-17 days after sowing, and it was very uneven and in some years it was extendend up to 5 weeks. Flaming (90 kg propane · ha-1) was applied in two times: immediately after noticing the first marjoram emergence or 5 days later, while glufosinate-ammonium (600 g · ha-1) was applied on the same date as the first flaming. The tested methods of weeding significantly reduced the number and fresh weight of weeds growing 3-4 weeks after the start of marjoram emergence, i.e. in the period of its greatest sensitivity to weed competition. They had no soil residual activity and their effect on weeds disappeared after the first weeding. Among weeds occurring in the experiment, only barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.) was partially tolerant to flaming. Flaming applied at the second time did not increase the effectiveness of weed control, but significantly decreased the number of emergence and the yield of marjoram herb. Essential oil content in marjoram grated herb varied considerably depending on the year, ranging from 1.35 to 2.34%. The oil contained from 33 to 36 identified compounds, among which trans-sabinene hydrate (28-34%) and terpinen-4-ol (17-21%) were clearly dominant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

الملخص: أهداف البحث: تهدف هذه الدراسة إلى صياغة هلام الأسنان أورجانوم فالجاري الجديد المضاد للتسوس مع فاعلية عالية في مضادات الميكروبات. طرق البحث: تم استخراج الزيت العطري أورجانوم فالجاري باستخدام التقطير المائي؛ واستخراج الإيثانول، واللوني للغاز/قياس الطيف الكتلي، وطرق الكروماتوغرافيا السائلة عالية الأداء. وتم تحديد النشاط المضاد للميكروبات للهلام المنتج بزيت الأوريجانو والمستخلص بطريقة الانتشار القرصي. وتم اختبار فعالية الزيت العطري أورجانوم فالجاري في المختبر من أجل الفلم الحيوي للعقدية الطافرة باستخدام التحليل اللوني. النتائج: منع زيت أورجانوم فالجاري العطري من نمو الفلم الحيوي للعقدية الطافرة بنسبة ٩٨٪ مقارنة ببكتيريا التحكم غير المكشوفة. وتمت صياغة خمس عينات من الجل المضاد للتسوس باستخدام زيت الأوريجانو الأساسي والمستخلص. بناء على نتائج الدراسة الميكروبيولوجية، أظهرت عينات الهلام الأولى والثالثة نشاطا عاليا لمضادات الميكروبات ضد السلالات البكتيرية موجبة الجرام من المكورات العنقودية الذهبية والعصوية الرقيقة وفطريات المبيضة البيضاء ونشاطا معتدلا مضادا للميكروبات ضد السلالات سالبة الجرام من الإشريكية القولونية والزائفة الزائفة. الاستنتاجات: بناء على نتائج هذه الدراسة، يمكن اعتبار عينة الهلام الثالثة بمثابة مادة هلامية مضادة للتسوس نظرا لارتفاع نشاطها المضاد للميكروبات. تتميز هذه العينة بخصائص حسية جيدة مقارنة بالعينات الأخرى، وتحمل نشاطا مضادا للميكروبات مرتفعا نسبيا وتحمي من الأغشية الحيوية المسببة للسرطان من العقدية الطافرة. Abstract: Objectives: This study aims to formulate a new Origanum vulgare anti-caries dental gel with high antimicrobial activity. Methods: O. vulgare essential oil was extracted using hydro-distillation, ethanol extraction, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography methods. Antimicrobial activity of the produced gels with oregano oil and extract was determined through the disco-diffusion method. The effectiveness of O. vulgare essential oil was tested in vitro for Streptococcus mutans biofilm using colorimetric analysis. Results: O. vulgare essential oil inhibited the growth of S. mutans biofilm by 98% compared with unexposed control bacteria (p

Origanum compactum belonging to the family Lamiaceae is widely used in food and pharmaceutical fields due to its biologically active substances. We aimed to investigate the total phenol and flavonoid contents and the phenolic composition, and to evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of hydroethanolic extract from of Origanum compactum. Total phenol and flavonoid contents were evaluated using gallic acid and quercetin as standards, respectively, and the phenolic profile was characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a photodiode array and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI/MS). The antioxidant activity was determined by two methods: ferric reducing power (FRAP) assay and the phosphomolybdate method. The antibacterial effect was evaluated against four bacteria (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) using the broth microdilution method. The findings show that the total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 107.789 ± 5.39 mg GAE/g dm and 14,977 ± 0.79 mg QE/g dm, respectively. A total of sixteen phenolic compounds belonging to phenolic acids and flavonoids were detected. Furthermore, the extract showed strong antioxidant activity, and displayed a bacteriostatic effect against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimuriumn, and a bactericidal effect against Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. Therefore, this study reveals that Origanum compactum extracts display potential as antibacterial and natural antioxidant agents for fighting against pathogenic bacteria and preventing oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Origanum x symes was described as a new species by Carlström in 1984 on the Aegean Island of Symi (Dodecanese, Greece). In this work, a taxonomic re-evaluation of O. symes is proposed in light of new findings. Methods: New specimens belonging to Origanum symes from the island of Symi were collected by the first author in 2017. These specimens were carefully examined and compared with the type specimen of O. symes. Also, the new Origanum symes specimen was compared morphologically with O. calcaratum and O. onites, which are possible parents, and their calyces were drawn. Results: The new hybrid was morphologically compared with its putative parents Origanum calcaratum and O. onites. Its diagnostic features, description, figures, and distribution map were provided. Conclusion: It has been determined that O. symes has intermediate characteristics between its two parents in terms of features such as leaves, calyx, and corolla. These determinations led us to hypothesize that O. symes is a hybrid. As a result, it was concluded that O. symes was a hybrid between O. calcaratum and O. onites, and was re-arranged as Origanum x symes Carlström. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria is a danger to public health and exposes patients to high risk, increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. For this purpose, three months of evaluation of MDR's prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in the military regional university hospital of Constantine from different services and samples was carried out. Among a total of 196 isolates, 35.2% were MDR. The use of essential oils such as Origanum glandulosum Desf. as an alternative to antibiotics is attractive due to their rich content of bioactive compounds conferring many biological activities. Also, to overcome the drawbacks of using oils as the hydrophobicity and negative interaction with the environmental conditions, in addition to increasing their activity, encapsulation for the oil was performed using high-speed homogenization (HSH) into nanocapsules and high-pressure homogenization (HPH) into nanoemulsion. Nine volatile constituents were determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis (GC-MS) in hydrodistilled oil with thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene, and γ-terpinene as dominants. A dramatic decrease in the major volatile components was observed due to the use of HSH and HPH but generated the same oil profile. The mean particle size of the nanoemulsion was 54.24 nm, while that of nanocapsules was 120.60 nm. The antibacterial activity of the oil and its nanoparticles was estimated on MDR isolates using the disk diffusion, aromatogram, and broth microdilution methods. Consistent with the differences in volatile constituents, the oil exhibited a higher antibacterial activity compared to its nanoforms with the diameters of the inhibition zone against E. coli (20 mm), S. aureus (35 mm), and A. baumannii (40 mm). Both formulations have shown relatively significant activity against the biofilm state at sub-inhibitory concentrations, where nanoemulsion was more potent than nanocapsules. The results obtained suggested that nanoformulations of essential oils are strongly recommended for therapeutic application as alternatives to antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A convenient, and multicomponent green procedure for the synthesis of triazolo[1,2-a]indazole-triones by the one-pot condensation reaction between 1,2,4-triazolidine-3,5-dione (urazole), 5,5-dimethylcyclohexane-1,3-dione (dimedone) and aldehydes in the presence of Origanum majorana-capped silver nanoparticles as a highly stable and reusable ecofriendly catalyst under solvent-free condition is described. Nanoparticle structure was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transport electron microscopy (TEM) isotherm, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra. This procedure provides several advantages such as simple, mild condition, easy workup, and excellent yield in a short time. All of the synthesized compounds were characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of biopigment applications in various industrial sectors are gaining importance due to the growing consumer interest in their natural origin. Thus, this work was conducted to valorize endophytic fungi as an efficient production platform for natural pigments. A promising strain isolated from leaves of Origanum majorana was identified as Monascus ruber SRZ112 produced several types of pigments. The nature of the pigments, mainly rubropunctamine, monascin, ankaflavin, rubropunctatin, and monascorubrin in the fungal extract was studied by LC/ESI–MS/MS analyses. As a first step towards developing an efficient production of red pigments, the suitability of seven types of agro-industrial waste was evaluated. The highest yield of red pigments was obtained using potato peel moistened with mineral salt broth as a culture medium. To increase yield of red pigments, favourable culture conditions including incubation temperature, incubation period, pH of moistening agent, inoculum concentration, substrate weight and moisture level were evaluated. Additionally, yield of red pigments was intensified after the exposure of M. ruber SRZ112 spores to 1.00 KGy gamma rays. The final yield was improved by a 22.12-fold increase from 23.55 to 3351.87 AU g−1. The anticancer and antioxidant properties of the pigment's extract from the fungal culture were also studied. The obtained data indicated activity of the extract against human breast cancer cell lines with no significant cytotoxicity against normal cell lines. The extract also showed a free radical scavenging potential. This is the first report, to our knowledge, on the isolation of the endophytic M. ruber SRZ112 strain with the successful production of natural pigments under solid-state fermentation using potato peel as a substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origanum majoranum L. is a Lamiaceae medicinal plant with culinary and ethnomedical applications. Its biological and phytochemical profiles have been extensively researched. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of O. majoranum high features, as well as to search for techniques for activity optimization. A metabolomics study of the crude extract of O. majoranum using liquid chromatography-high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC ± HR ± ESI ± MS) was conducted. Five fractions (petroleum ether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and aqueous) were derived from the total extract of the aerial parts. Different chromatographic methods and NMR analysis were utilized to purify and identify the isolated phenolics (high features). Moreover, the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antioxidant activity of phenolics were performed. Results showed that metabolomic profiling of the crude extract of O. majoranum aerial parts revealed the presence of a variety of phytochemicals, predominantly phenolics, resulting in the isolation and identification of seven high-feature compounds comprising two phenolic acids, rosmarinic and caffeic acids, one phenolic diterpene, 7-methoxyepirosmanol, in addition to four flavonoids, quercetin, hesperitin, hesperidin, and luteolin. On the other hand, 7-methoxyepirosmanol (OM1) displayed the most antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. Such a phenolic principal activity improvement seems to be established after loading on gold nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malassezia pachydermatis is an opportunistic yeast found in the ear canal of small animals; however, the current azole-based therapy applied to it has failed to achieve clinical success due to the antifungal resistance. This issue has encouraged the studies in natural products, such as Origanum vulgare (oregano), Origanum majorana (marjoram) and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) essential oils, although their mechanism of action remains unclear. Malassezia pachydermatis specimens deriving from otitis cases in dogs (n = 22) and cats (n = 2) were subjected to CLSI M27-A3. Sorbitol protection and ergosterol effect were analyzed to investigate their mechanism of action. Fungistatic (MIC) and fungicidal (MFC) activities were observed for oregano (MIC90/MFC90: 0.625 mg/mL); marjoram (MIC90/MFC90: 2.5 mg/mL) and rosemary MIC90/MFC90 > 2.5 mg/mL). Oregano showed superior antifungal effect even at lower MIC and MFC values. All three oils acted on cell wall and at complexation to fungal ergosterol. By gas chromatography (GC-FID), carvacrol was the major compound found in oregano (73.9%); 1,8-cineole was for marjoram and rosemary (20.9% and 49.4%, respectively). These findings support the potential use of these essential oils to treat canine and feline otitis caused by Malassezia pachydermatis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants have been used by humans for the treatment of various diseases for thousands of years from past to present. Members of the Lamiaceae family are among the most preferred medicinal plants due to the wide variety of secondary components they contain, particularly essential oils. In this review, Master's and PhD theses and books based on ethnobotanical studies investigated between 1960 and 2021 as well as internationally recognized databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, SciFinder, Springer and Elsevier) were used to determine the medicinal uses of Lamiaceae taxa among the people in Turkey. As a result of the study, it was found that a total of 221 taxa (192 species) belonging to 29 genera, 51 of which are endemic, have medicinal/therapeutic uses. The local names of these taxa, the usage which are used among the people, the diseases in which they are used, and the geographical regions given in the present study. The genera of taxa most commonly used for medicinal purposes by the local people are Salvia (37 taxa), Sideritis (25 taxa), Stachys (22 taxa), Thymus (16 taxa) and Origanum (13 taxa). It was observed that the most frequently used two methods while preparing these plants for use was infusion (61%), and decoction (24%). Studies conducted on National (TURK, BHP), Regional (EU) and International Pharmacopoeias (WHO) and various monographs (AHP, COMISSION E, EMA, ESCOP, PDR) have revealed that there are 29 taxa included in these pharmacopoeias and monographs whose purpose of use are similar to the diseases that local people are trying to treat. Diseases that people use plants for therapeutic purposes are grouped into 12 categories. It was determined that these plants were widely used for therapeutic purposes in gastric disorders as well as otolaryngology and respiratory system diseases. This review briefly discusses whether some taxa commonly used by the local people in the treatment of diseases can be useful in the treatment of the disease in question, in the light of scientific studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from wild and cultivated Origanum compactum from Chaoun (Morocco) were assessed. • Domestication had an effect on the essential oil composition: 27 compounds were identified in cultivated plants while only twelve compounds were found in wild plants. • GC/MS revealed that in both oils, carvacrol, p-cymene and γ-terpinene were the main compounds. • Essential oils from wild and cultivated plants showed potent antifungal activity against four Candida strains. • Essential oils from wild and cultivated plants exhibited high antioxidant activity. • Origanum compactum domestication did not compromise the biological activities of essential oils. Origanum compactum is a medicinal species endemic to Morocco and highly exploited for its therapeutic properties. In the present study, we examined the chemical composition and biological activities of the essential oils from wild and cultivated O. compactum. The chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The yield of essential oils was 3.5% for the wild plants and 3.4% for the cultivated plants. Twelve compounds have been identified in the essential oils of wild plants. Carvacrol was the predominant compound (59.0%), followed by p-cymene (18.4%) and then by γ-terpinene (8.4%). For the cultivated plants, 27 compounds were identified. Here again, carvacrol was the predominant compound (45.3%), followed by p-cymene (22.2%) and by γ-terpinene (10.1%). The antifungal activity of essential oils was evaluated against four Candida strains using the aromatogram method, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). In semi-solid medium, essential oils were active against all the strains tested. In liquid medium, MIC values ranged from 216 to 234 μg/ml, while the MFC was 288 μg/ml. Antioxidant activity was investigated by 2,2-diphenyl-1,1,picrylhydrazil radical (DPPH) and the findings showed that the essential oils of both plants have a good antioxidant effect. In conclusion, domestication is a practical approach to preserve O. compactum from extinction without compromising its biological activities. Besides, the essential oils of O. compactum could be a promising and sustainable alternative to replace the synthetic compounds used currently in pharmaceutical and food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicine has been gaining special interest as an alternative choice of treatment for several diseases, being generally accessible, cost-effective and safe, with fewer side-effects compared to chemically synthesized medicines. Over 25% of drugs worldwide are derived from plants, and surveys have shown that, when available, herbal medicine is the preferred choice of treatment. Origanum syriacum (Lamiaceae) is a widely used medicinal plant in the Middle East, both as a home and a folk remedy, and in the food and beverage industry. Origanum syriacum contains numerous phytochemical compounds, including flavonoids, phenols, essential oils, and many others. Because of its bioactive compounds, O. syriacum possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic capacities. In addition, it can be beneficial in the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and peptic ulcers. In this review, the chemical compositions of different types of extracts and essential oils from this herb will first be specified. Then, the pharmacological uses of these extracts and essential oils in various contexts and diseases will be discussed, putting emphasis on their efficacy and safety. Finally, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of O. syriacum phytochemicals in disease treatment will be described as a basis for further investigation into the plant's pharmacological role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Culinary herbs consist of bioactive compounds which play an important role as natural antimicrobial agents. The present study was carried out with the objective of evaluating the antibacterial activity of extracts from selected culinary herbs; Trachyspermum involucratum, Laurus nobilis, Coriandrum sativum, Allium tuberosum, Allium schoenoprasum, Melissa officinalis, Origanum majorana, Origanum vulgare, Rosmarinus officinalis, Santolina chamaecyparissus, and Satureja hortensis. Different extraction solvents (sterilized distilled water, hot distilled water (80°C), absolute methanol, and acetone) were used against three foodborne pathogens (E. coli NCTC 10418, E. coli ATCC 25922, and Enterococcus faecalis) using the agar-well diffusion method. Statistical analysis using two-factor factorial completely randomized design in SAS software revealed that all solvent extracts of Trachyspermum involucratum has the highest antibacterial activity (p<0.05) followed by Rosmarinus officinalis, Santolina chamaecyparissus, Satureja hortensis, Origanum vulgare, and Coriandrum sativum against all tested bacteria with variable potential. Further, hot distilled water (80°C) extract of Trachyspermum involucratum had significant antibacterial activity against E. coli NCTC 10418 (14.67 ± 1.53 mm). In particular, organic extracts of Rosmarinus officinalis, Santolina chamaecyparissus and Satureja hortensis had strong antibacterial activity against E. coli NCTC 10418 and Enterococcus faecalis. Overall, Enterococcus faecalis has highly inhibited the growth followed by E. coli NCTC 10418 and E. coli ATCC 25922 in extracts of the best anti-bacterially active herbs. The minimum inhibitory concentration of above the herb extracts was 0.2 g mL-1 against most of the tested pathogens. It can be concluded that culinary herbs are potentially effective as natural antimicrobials against tested foodborne pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Origanum majorana L., (OM), O. onites L. (OO) and O. syriacum L. (subsp. bevanii (Holmes) Greuter & Burdet) (OS) are belong to Majorana (Mill.) Benth. section of Origanum L. genus. In this study, quantities of some phenolic compounds; gallic acid, syringic acid, p-hydory benzoic acid, caffeic acid, (E)- ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, pyrogallol and vanillin; in the chloroform (C), acetone (Ac) and methanol (M) extracts prepared from Origanum species collected from Türkiye were investigated via liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The relative standard deviations (RSD) of the phenolics were found as follows; 4.85, 8.39, 4.78, 8.04, 5.21, 5.45, 3.73, 5.47, respectively. Curcumin was used as an internal standard. In the extracts, (E)-ferulic acid and caffeic acid were found to be the most abundant compounds. O. syriacum was determined as the richest species in terms of phenolic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks are of great economic importance worldwide, both because they represent major obstacles to livestock productivity and because of their ability to transmit diseases to humans and animals. Although synthetic acaricides are the most common method for tick control, their overuse has led to the development of resistance as well as unacceptable residual levels in animal products and in the environment in general. There is therefore an urgent need to identify alternative treatments. Among such alternative approaches for tick control is plant essential oil (EO) therapy. In the present study, we investigated the synergistic effect of EOs of three oregano species—Origanum onites, O. majorana and O. minutiflorum—against Rhipicephalus annulatus larvae. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry profiles of the three EOs revealed that carvacrol was their major component, with a concentration of 86.2% in O. majorana, 79.1% in O. minutiflorum and 77.4% in O. onites. The results of larvicidal assays revealed that the doses that lead to the death of 50% of the ticks (LC50) were 22.99, 25.08 and 27.06 µL/mL for O. majorana, O. minutiflorum and O. onites EOs, respectively, whereas the doses that lead to the death of 99% (LC99) were 41.26, 43.62 and 48.96 µL/mL. In addition, the LC50 and LC99 of the three oils combined was lower (viz., 4.01 and 6.97 µL/mL) than that of each oil alone. The tested EOs were also able to repel larvae of R. annulatus to varying degrees, with O. onites oil exhibiting the greatest repellent effect, as shown by the lowest RC50 dose, followed by O. minutiflorum and O. majorana. Interestingly, this means that the oil that was least effective in killing the larvae was the most effective in repelling them. The calculated synergistic factor of any combination was higher than 1 which means that combinations have a synergistic effect. In conclusion, the combination of all three oils showed higher toxic and repellent activities than either oil separately or combinations of any two oils, suggesting synergistic effects with low doses. Further studies including field trials and the establishment of the mode of action and side effects are urgently needed to expand on these findings, and other tick stages such as adults should also be tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]