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Brazilian semiarid region has water with high levels of salts that limit its use in agriculture, necessitating the adoption of strategies to reduce the impact of salinity. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of a biostimulant as a attenuating of mitigate saline stress on the growth, gas exchange, chlorophyll indices, and chlorophyll a fluorescence of Mentha piperita. The experiment was performed using a randomized block design, employing a 5 × 5 incomplete factorial schemes. This involved five different electrical conductivities of the irrigation water (ECw = 0.5, 1.01, 2.25, 3.49, and 4.00 dS m-1) and five doses of the biostimulant (Stimulate® = 0.0, 1.45, 5.00, 8.55, and 10.0 mL L-1). In total, nine combinations were generated using the Central Composite Design. Growth, gas exchange, chlorophyll indices, and chlorophyll a fluorescence were evaluated 45 days after irrigation with saline water. The results indicated that saline stress hindered the growth, gas exchange, chlorophyll indices, and photochemical efficiency of M. piperita. However, the biostimulant mitigated the adverse effects of salinity on the growth, gas exchange, and photochemical efficiency of M. piperita. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of unconventional insecticides, Vertimec 1.8% EC (Abamectin) and Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita ) (family Lamiaceae) against Thrips tabaci (Lindeman) on Strawberry plant crop during two successive seasons 2020 and 2021, at a private farm in Meet Al-Kenana Toukh, Qalyubia governorate in Egypt. All the treatments showed a significant difference two insecticidal applications, regarding their effectiveness. The efficacy of insecticide Vertimec 1.8% EC (Abamectin) and Peppermint oil increased gradually to reach their highest efficacy after 10 days of spray and more efficient to combat T. tabaci, were 81.55% and 79.11%, respectively. Peppermint oil was closed to terminal in of the chemical analysis to estimate the chlorophyll content in the leaves, it turned out that the untreated area recorded the highest percentage, followed by Vertimec 1.8% EC (Abamectin). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal use of nanotechnology included a significant contribution from the antibacterial activity of biologically produced silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Scientists investigated an efficient and environmentally friendly way to make silver nanoparticles by extracting Mentha piperita leaves as well as using their antimicrobial properties. Green synthesis method was used to produce AgNps from extract of mint plant and characterization was done by XRD, SEM and UV Visible Spectroscopy. A peak at 440 nm, which corresponds to the plasmon absorbance of silver nanoparticles, was evident in the UV-visible spectra of the solution containing AgNPs. Scanning electron microscopy observed that the nanoparticles were spherical in shape and ranged in size from 20 to 50 nm. The planes (111), (200), and (220) were found using the XRD patterns and value 0f 2?: 38.50, 46.30 and 64.70 are observed. The silver nanoparticle's existence was verified by the face-centered cubic (FCC). Silver nanoparticles were found to have antibacterial efficacy against both gram-positive Staphylococcus and gram-negative bacteria such Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella Aerogenes, Salmonella, Staphylococcus and E. coli. The antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles against bacterial strains were observed using the agar well diffusion (AWD) method at three different concentrations (100µgml-1, 75 µgml-1, and 50 µgml-1). The zone of inhibition measured against the bacterial strains pseudomonas Aeruginosa, Klebsiella aerogenes, E. coli, Salmonella and Staphylococcus which were (18.7±1.25mm, 16.5±0.74mm, 14.0±1.25mm), (16.3±0.96mm, 14.5±0.76mm, 14.0±1.15mm), (16±0.76mm, 14.4±0.66mm, 14.0±1.15mm), (16.5±0.67mm, 14.5±0.23mm, 12.6±0.78mm) and (110.2±0.68mm, 8.8±0.20mm, 7.0±0.15mm). These nanoparticles' potent antibacterial properties may enable them to be employed as nanomedicines for a variety of gram-negative bacterial illness treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Herbal remedies can play a preventive role against oral malodor. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effects of green tea and peppermint mouthwashes on halitosis. Methods In this cross-over, randomized clinical trial, 84 volunteers with an average organoleptic score of ≥2 were enrolled. The volunteers underwent two one-week phases of treatment with either green tea or peppermint mouthwash, divided by a one-week washout period. The main outcomes included the objective and subjective assessments of change in malodor. The organoleptic assessment was considered as the objective measure, while the participants’ self-perception of the taste and smell of the mouthwash was considered as the subjective measure. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was employed to evaluate the decrease in halitosis severity over a span of seven days for each mouthwash. This test was also used to compare the extent of halitosis reduction between the two mouthwashes. Results Both green tea and peppermint mouthwashes significantly reduced the severity of halitosis (P<0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the reduction of the organoleptic level between the two mouthwashes (P=0.72). Additionally, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of self-reported satisfaction (P=0.78). Conclusion Both green tea and peppermint mouthwashes were effective in the management of halitosis. Therefore, either of them could be prescribed for halitosis treatment based on the individual’s taste preference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mentha is a plant native to the Mediterranean region and is cultivated throughout the world due to its use in different areas. Mentha Spicata, Mentha Piperita, and Mentha Pulegium are among the most important aromatic plants of this genus. Recent studies have shown that the essential oils of these plants contain components that are active in the oral cavity due to their antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the composition of these essential oils can be modified by environmental factors such as light, precipitation, the growing site, and soil, which might directly influence their activities. The purpose of this study is to physically and chemically characterize the different commercial essential oils of mint: spearmint, peppermint, and pennyroyal in order to determine their quality. These essential oils were collected from different regions in Morocco. The quality of the essential oils was determined by organoleptic properties and analysis of their constituents using thin layer chromatographic (TLC) technique. The results showed variations in the composition of some major components of these essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to investigate the microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) kinetics of polyphenolic compounds from organic peppermint leaves. The phytochemicals of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) are increasingly used in food technology due to their numerous biological activities. The processing of various plant materials by MAE and the production of high-quality extracts is becoming increasingly important. Therefore, the influence of microwave irradiation power (90, 180, 360, 600, and 800 W) on total extraction yield (Y), total polyphenols yield (TP), and flavonoid yield (TF) were investigated. Common empirical models (first-order, Peleg's hyperbolic, Elovich's logarithmic, and power-law model) were applied to the extraction process. The first-order kinetics model provided the best agreement with the experimental results in terms of statistical parameters (SSer, R2, and AARD). Therefore, the influences of irradiation power on the adjustable model parameters (k and Ceq) were investigated. It was found that irradiation power exerted a significant influence on k, while its influence on the asymptotic value of the response was negligible. The highest experimentally determined k (2.28 min−1) was obtained at an irradiation power of 600 W, while the optimal irradiation power determined by the maximum fitting curve determination predicted the highest k (2.36 min−1) at 665 W. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to obtain and analyse Mentha piperita essential oil (MpEO) for the prospect of being used as an enhancement agent for the antimicrobial potential of ozone against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and fungi. The research was done for different exposure times, and it gained time–dose relationships and time–effect correlations. Mentha piperita (Mp) essential oil (MpEO) was obtained via hydrodistillation and further analysed by using GC-MS. The broth microdilution assay was used to determine the strain inhibition/strain mass growth by using spectrophotometric optical density reading (OD). The bacterial/mycelium growth rates (BGR/MGR) and the bacterial/mycelium inhibition rates (BIR/MIR) after ozone treatment in the presence and absence of MpEO on the ATTC strains were calculated; the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and statistical interpretations of the time–dose relationship and specific t-test correlations were determined. The effect of ozone on the following tested strains at maximum efficiency was observed after 55 s of single ozone exposure, in order of effect strength: S. aureus > P. aeruginosa > E. coli > C. albicans > S. mutans. For ozone with the addition of 2% MpEO (MIC), maximum efficacy was recorded at 5 s for these strains, in order of effect strength: C. albicans > E. coli > P. aeruginosa > S. aureus > S. mutans. The results suggest a new development and affinity regarding the cell membrane of the different microorganisms tested. In conclusion, the use of ozone, combined with MpEO, is sustained as an alternative therapy in plaque biofilm and suggested as helpful in controlling oral disease-causing microorganisms in medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volatile metabolites of Salvia sclarea, Rosmarinus officinalis, Thymus serpyllum, Mentha spicata, Melissa officinalis, Origanum majorana, Mentha piperita, Ocimum basilicum and Lavandula angustifolia were determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The vapor insecticidal properties of the analyzed essential oils and their compounds were screened using Reticulitermes dabieshanensis workers. The most effective oils were S. sclarea (major constituent linalyl acetate, 65.93%), R. officinalis (1,8-cineole, 45.56%), T. serpyllum (thymol, 33.59%), M. spicata (carvone, 58.68%), M. officinalis (citronellal, 36.99%), O. majorana (1,8-cineole, 62.29%), M. piperita (menthol, 46.04%), O. basilicum (eugenol, 71.08%) and L. angustifolia (linalool, 39.58%), which exhibited LC50 values ranging from 0.036 to 1.670 μL/L. The lowest LC50 values were recorded for eugenol (0.060 μL/L), followed by thymol (0.062 μL/L), carvone (0.074 μL/L), menthol (0.242 μL/L), linalool (0.250 μL/L), citronellal (0.330 μL/L), linalyl acetate (0.712 μL/L) and 1,8-cineole (1.478 μL/L). The increased activity of esterases (ESTs) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were observed but only alongside the decreased activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in eight main components. Our results indicate that S. sclarea, R. officinalis, T. serpyllum, M. spicata, M. officinalis, O. marjorana, M. piperita, O. basilicum and L. angustifolia essential oils (EOs) and their compounds, linalyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, thymol, carvone, citronellal, menthol, eugenol and linalool could be developed as control agents against termites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current experiment aimed to study impacts of feeding on peppermint leaves powder (PLP) and its respective L-menthol crystal (LMC) supplementations on performance, plasma biochemistry, antioxidant, impregnability, microbial content, digestibility and digestive enzymes in laying Japanese quail. A total of 504 birds were randomly assigned to seven test groups, each one with 6 replicates and 12 birds. First group received a standard diet, whereas treatments from second to four obtained standard diet plus PLP at 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5%, respectively. While, five to seven groups received control diet plus LMC at levels being 17, 22 and 27 ppm, respectively. Birds fed diets that contain 27 ppm had the highest DC (p ≤ 0.001) of dry matter, organic matter, nitrogen free extract and protein retention, while the group fed with LMC at a level of 22 and 17 ppm recorded the higher digestibility coefficients (DC) of ether extract and crude fiber, respectively. Quail fed diets supplemented with PLP 2.0 % followed by LMC 27 ppm and PLP 2.5 %, respectively showed significantly (p ≤ 0.001) higher trypsin enzyme. All performance traits except feed intake (FI) were significantly influenced by PLP 2.5% followed by LMC 27 and 22 ppm, respectively compared to the standard treatment. Berds fed LMC 27 ppm had dramatically lower lipid, liver enzymes, Salmonella and Escherichia coli population (p ≤ 0.001) with the better thyroid function, antioxidant measures, Lactobacilli population amount, immune and best fertility and hatchability percentage. Finally, adding 27 ppm LMC followed by 2.5% PLP to the standard diet enhanced digestibility of nutrients, digestive enzymes, performance, antioxidant properties, plasma biochemical, immune, and microbial count in the gut in laying Japanese quails. With economical point of view, the diet with 2.5% PLP was the best. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current trial was aimed to examine impacts of feeding on peppermint leaves powder (PLP) and its respective L-menthol crystal (LMC) supplementations on production performance, blood biochemistry, antioxidant parameters, immunity indices, microbial content, digestibility and digestive enzymes in growing Japanese quail. At ten-day-old, 700 unsexed Japanese quail were randomly splated into seven treatments, every treatment had five replecates of twenty chicks per each. The 1st treatment was given a normal diet (control), while other treatments from the 2nd to the 4th were given a standard diet with PLP at 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5%, respectively. Groups from the 5th to the 7th were received a control diet plus LMC at levels of 17, 22, and 27 part per million (ppm), respectively. Trypsin and amylase levels were significantly greater in the birds fed a diet containing 27 ppm LMC and 2.5% PLP compared to the control group, but lipase levels were not significantly different.. All nutrient digestibility (ND) and economic efficiency were significantly improved in chicks fed a diet supplemented with 27 ppm LMC compared to the control. Birds that given a diet supplemented with 27 ppm LMC and 2.5% PLP had the better-feed conversion ratio, live body weight and body gain, without any influence in feed intake. Finally, birds received 27 ppm LMC and 2.5% PLP had a dramatically lower lipid amount, liver enzymes, Escherichia coli and Salmonella population and the highest T3 and T4 levels, antioxidant parameters and Lactobacilli population number with the best impregnability compared to the control group. In conclusion, the addition of LMC at 27 ppm followed by PLP at 2.5%, to the basal diet improved the nutrients digestibility, digestive enzymes, performance, antioxidant, plasma biochemical, immunological indices, intestinal microbiota and economical efficiency in Japanese quails during growing phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggressive driving is of increasing concern in modern society. This study investigated the potential for the presence of an ambient aroma to reduce aggressive responses in a simulated driving situation. Previous literature has demonstrated the beneficial effect of peppermint (Mentha piperita) aroma on driver alertness and we aimed to identify any impact on aggressive driver behaviour. Fifty volunteers were randomly assigned to one of two conditions (peppermint essential oil aroma and no aroma). Aggressive driving behaviours were measured in a virtual reality driving simulator. The analysis indicated that the peppermint aroma significantly reduced aggressive driving behaviours. The presence of the aroma also produced medium sized effects on some aspects of mood from pre‐test levels. These results provide support for the use of ambient aromas for the modification of driving behaviours. It is proposed that applying peppermint into daily driving may be a beneficial for reducing driver aggression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peppermint is an important aromatic-medicinal plant species and it has valuable essential oil contents such as menthol, linalool and limonene. The main purpose of the current study was to optimize a protocol for cryopreservation of M. piperita local cultivars (G-74, Candarli and Gomec). The secondary aim was to investigate the genetic stability after cryopreservation using ISSR marker system. Three different single step freezing techniques were compared for longterm preservation of these local cultivars and the optimum regeneration percentages were acquired by using the droplet vitrification technique. The PVS2 treatments of this technique showed succesful long-term preservation of M. piperita cultivars with regeneration percentages of 72% to Candarli cultivar (60 min PVS2), 52% to Gomec cultivar (75 min PVS2) and 62.5% to G-74 cultivar (30 min PVS2) respectively. The ISSR PCR results showed that the genetic stability from cryopreserved M. piperita cultivars were high. While genetic stability percentage was ~99% for the Candarli cultivar, for the Gomec and G-74 cultivars the genetic fidelity was100%. The shoots that come from the cryopreserved shoot tips showed normal and health rooting, and all of them were also easily adapted to greenhouse conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A trial assessing the suitability of multifunctional living mulch to maintain the soil and reduce weed infestation was carried out in an organic apple orchard in the years of 2019-2020. Perennial plants (Alchemilla vulgaris, Fragaria vesca, Mentha piperita) and annual crops (Tropaeolum majus and Cucurbita maxima) were grown on the rows of the apple trees (understory). The weeds number and soil weeds coverage in tree rows were assessed. Regardless of the living mulch species utilized, the soil resulted to be mostly covered by perennial weed species such as: Equisetum arvense and Taraxacum officinale and annual species such as: Lamium purpureum, Stellaria media, Galinsoga parviflora, Capsella bursa-pastoris and Poa annua, which were the most common species also for the natural cover used as control. However, all living mulch species limited weed infestation level but M. piperita, F. vesca, and T. majus suppressed more weed growth. It is concluded that living mulch species can be a feasible practice to manage the soil in the tree rows in organic orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bees are the most important pollinators of agricultural plants. The decline of bee colonies is caused by a multitude of factors of which diseases, pesticides, and climate change seem to be the most important. Losses can be huge when several factors act together. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of alternative sources such as medicinal plants in the form of extracts or essential oils. The purpose of our research was to evaluate the economic efficiency of the use of essential oils of basil (Ocimum basilicum), cinnamon (Cinnamomum veruum), clove (Syzgium aromaticum), juniper (Juniperus communis L.), oregano (Oreganum vulgare), mint (Mentha piperita), rosemary (Rosmarius officinalis), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) in the additional feeding of bee colonies in the spring. Ninety colonies of Apis mellifera bees were used, which were additionally fed with sugar syrup and one of the essential oils. Our results showed strong positive correlations between the total number of germs in the gut of worker bees and the number of brood cells when using the essential oil of oregano (Oreganum vulgare) (R2 = 0.786) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) (R2 = 0.729), and between the total number of germs and the yield of honey obtained at the first harvest in the case of the essential oil of basil (Ocimum basilicum) (R2 = 1), mint (Mentha piperita) (R2 = 0.718), oregano (Oreganum vulgare) (R2 = 0.621), and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L) (R2 = 0.859). The best profit from the sale of honey was obtained in the case of the use of essential oils of mint, oregano, thyme, and basil, in a range of EUR 139.16–144.73/bee colony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive compounds are molecules that may have therapeutic potential with influence on oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory state and metabolic disorders. Herbs are recognized as a significant source of natural antioxidants. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant properties of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.). Fresh plant materials were harvested and obtained from the Experimental Station of Agriculture University in Kraków, Poland. Proximate analysis (protein, fat, ash and dry matter) was performed on herbs. Total polyphenol content and polyphenol profile antioxidant activity (ABTS and FRAP methods) were measured in an extract prepared with deionized distilled hot water (infusion), 70% methanol or 70% methanol acidified with formic acid. It was found that the water extract of peppermint had the highest polyphenol content and antioxidant activity measured by the FRAP method. The highest antioxidant activity measured with the ABTS method was in methanolic lemon balm extract. The highest amount of total phenolic compound was determined in the water extract of peppermint. The water and acidified methanol extract of peppermint contained a higher amount of naringin, rutin, hesperidin and rosmarinic acid. Evaluated plants can be used as natural antioxidants instead of synthetic antioxidants in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Natural antioxidants have drawn growing interest for use in animal feed and the food industry. In the current study, essential oils (EOs) obtained from hydrodistillation of three mentha species, including Mentha piperita (peppermint), Mentha spicata (native spearmint) and Mentha gracilis (Scotch spearmint), harvested in the Midwest region in the United States, were analyzed for their chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and their antioxidant properties were assessed through chemical assays, in vitro cell culture modeling and in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The activity of ferric iron reduction and free-radical scavenging capacity were assessed through chemical-based assays, including the reducing power assay, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay (TEAC). Subsequently, the capacity of EOs to mitigate lipid peroxidation was analyzed at various doses using fresh liver homogenates from pigs. A porcine jejunum epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2) was employed as in vitro model to study the cellular antioxidant activity of the mint EOs. Finally, the effectiveness of mint EOs to alleviate acute systemic oxidative damage were evaluated in vivo using C. elegans. Data were analyzed by the MIXED procedure of SAS. Contrast statement was performed to assess linear or quadratic effects of mint EOs given at various doses. All three EOs are mostly composed of monoterpenes and their derivatives (76-90%), but differed in the major compounds, which are menthol and menthone (50%) in peppermint EO and carvone (70%) in spearmint EOs. Three mint EOs demonstrated prominent radical scavenging and Fe3+ reducing activity in chemical-based assays. In comparison with native and Scotch spearmint EOs, peppermint EO had the lowest (p < 0.05) half maximal effective concentration (EC50) in DPPH and TEAC assays and higher efficacy in the reducing power assay. All three EOs exhibited equivalent activity in mitigation of chemical-induced lipid peroxidation in liver tissues in a dose-dependent manner (linear, p < 0.001). The maximal cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) was observed at 5 µg/mL for peppermint, and 100 µg/mL for native and Scotch spearmint EOs. The addition of 25 µg/mL of both spearmint EOs increased (p < 0.05) cellular concentrations of glutathione in H2O2-treated IPEC-J2 cells, suggesting enhanced endogenous antioxidant defense. Supplementation of 100 µg/mL of peppermint or Scotch spearmint EO significantly increased (p < 0.05) the survival rate of C. elegans in response to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. The protective effect is comparable to that of supplementation of 10 µg/mL of ascorbic acid. However native spearmint EO failed to reduce the death rate within the same supplementation dose (10-200 μg/mL).

A study was carried out to determine the effect of peppermint (Mentha piperita) leaves meal on ammonia production, dry matter excreta, egg production, and the quality of laying hens. A total of 80 laying hens of Lohmann Strain aged 20 weeks old were used as experimental animals. The birds were allocated in individual battery pens. The 20-week-old laying hens were vaccinated for New Castle diseases protection by using Vaksimune®ND B1on day 5 after arrival. The hens were kept for 8 weeks and fed four experimental diets. The diets used were basal diet (BSL), basal + 1% peppermint leaves meal (PLM) (BSL+1PLM), basal + 2% PLM (BSL+2PLM) and basal + 3% PLM (BSL + 3PLM). Feed and drinking water were present at all times. Parameters measured were ammonia concentration, dry matter excreta, hen day production, total egg mass, feed intake, FCR, dry matter digestibility, and quality of 14-days-stored eggs. A completely randomized design with 4 experimental diets and 5 replications was used. Data collected from this study were analyzed by using analysis of variance and tested with the Tukey test. The addition of peppermint leaf meal reduced ammonia production and increases dry matter excreta, total egg mass production, and dry matter digestibility. The Haugh unit, yolk height, and albumen height were improved when the eggs were kept for 14 days at room temperature. The addition of peppermint leaves meal decreased the mass loss of 14 days-stored eggs. In conclusion, supplementation of diets with peppermint leaf meal decreased ammonia concentration and watery excreta and increased the quality of eggs stored for 14 days at room temperature.

Mint is a medicinal herbal drug; and its leaves are also widely used in the food and cosmetic industries. Medical literature states that mint is naturally resistant to toxic elements and capable of accumulating them in significant amounts. The aim of the study was to compare heavy metals, arsenic, and aluminum contents in mint leaves and products. Materials and methods: the study covered peppermint leaves, tinctures, and oils, as well as teas and dietary supplements made of different varieties of mint. Elemental analysis was performed according to the procedure of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) developed by the authors. Results: the authors studied the compliance of the experimentally established contents of heavy metals, arsenic, and aluminum in peppermint leaves and products to the requirements of Russian and foreign regulatory documentation. Nonparametric Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to characterise the interaction between chemical elements. Conclusions: arsenic contents in mint leaves may exceed the limit given in the State Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation, 14th ed. It is supposed that the increased contents are not a result of the anthropogenic factor, but a specific characteristic of this plant. The study demonstrated synergistic absorption of aluminum, iron, and vanadium, as well as copper and zinc by mint. It was established that manganese had an antagonistic effect on the absorption of nickel, lead, and cobalt by mint.

ObjectiveThe growth and yield of plants in the arid and semiarid areas are limited by salinity stress. In these areas, salinity intensifies by high temperatures. Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) is of great economic importance in the most of world areas due to their valuable essential oils. This study investigated the simultaneous effects of salinity and heat on rosmarinic acid production and expression of three effective genes (C4H, HPPR, and RAS) in rosmarinic biosynthesis in peppermint.Materials and methodsThe effect of two levels of salinity 60 and 120 mM of sodium chloride (irrigation water with salinity of 10 Mm as control) and heat stress at 35°C (25°C as control) at three interval times (24, 48 and 72 hours) after treatments were measured in a completely randomized design with three replications.ResultsThe results showed that salinity stress decreased the relative level of rosmarinic acid. The process intensified over time so that it reached its lowest level at salinity of 60 mM at 72 hours. RAS genes expression was significantly reduced under salinity of 120 mM and 60 mM under 25˚C and 35 ˚C. Changes in the expression level of C4H in peppermint seedlings at the salinity levels of 60 mM and 120 mM at 25˚C showed a significant increase (4.1 and 3.6 times respectively) at the first 24 hours compared to control. The expression of HPPR gene in peppermint seedlings at 35 ° C increased 2.68, 1.79 and 2.55 times at 24, 48 and 72 hours, respectively, compared to the control.ConclusionsSimultaneous salinity and heat stress are a limitation factor for growing Mentha piperita L. These factors had a negative effect on the biosynthesis of rosmarinic acid in this plant. Salinity and heat stress decreased the expression of some genes and increased the expression of others in peppermint.

Mosquito-repellent textiles are a part of protective textiles which help in protection from the species that are prone to cause diseases like malaria and dengue fever. This study explored the possibility of natural extract (alcoholic) from peppermint leaves, stems, and garlic cloves to use as a mosquito-repellent finish material on knit fabric. Accordingly, different concentration (5%, 15%, 25%, and 35%) of PGE (Peppermint Garlic Extract) solution was prepared and applied to the developed fabric using an exhaust dyeing process to assess the mosquito (Aedes Aegypti L.) repellency performance. Following WHO (World Health Organization) standard (cone bioassay) and a self-modified cage technique from literature survey, mosquito protection and repellency tests have been performed for characterization. The findings revealed that the PGE-treated fabric samples C (25% PGE) and D (35% PGE) had the highest mosquito mortality (50.00% and 76.67%, respectively) and repellency (78.6% and 85.6%, respectively) rates. Moreover, this study evaluated the prepared PGE formulations’ shelf-life performance and colorfastness properties of PGE-treated fabrics, including the impact of washing cycles on the treated fabrics. There was no fungal growth, and the fabric showed excellent colorfastness properties. However, the efficacy of treated fabrics decreased with an increasing number of washes.

Objectives: Mentha piperita, generally known as peppermint is a popular herb cultivated in the temperate region around the world belongs to the family Lamiaceae. M. piperita is widely used as traditional food flavoring, in addition they are as well used to treat cold, fever and throat inflammation, and they have anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. The characteristics of MicroRNAs (miRNAs) includes, small size with single stranded non-coding regions having 22 nucleotides. They are evolutionary conserved and actively involved in post-transcriptional regulation of RNAs, which plays various important roles in metabolic and cellular processes of animals and plants. Methods: The present study reports the potent computational method based on homology search used to find potential miRNA of peppermint. EST sequences were retrieved from NCBI GenBank and BLAST against with plant miRNAs. By various filtration criteria we identified potential miRNAs from miRNA family with suitable properties. Results and Conclusion: A total of 1216 ESTs were and 1188 unigenes were identified in this study. A set of prospective target genes were identified in peppermint based on sequence homologies mainly encodes for transcription factor, transport inhibitor like protein, GRR1-like protein and DNA-binding protein. The present study endows valuable information on miRNA in peppermint which will accelerate further research in peppermint.

This study proposes a simple, effective, and environmentally friendly approach for the synthesis of zinc oxide/silver nanoparticles (ZnO/Ag NPs) using three different plant extracts. The plants used in this study were moringa oleifera (MO), mentha piperita (MP), and citrus lemon (CL). Characterizations of ZnO/Ag NPs were done using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) along with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In accordance with size distribution findings, ZnO/Ag NPs synthesized with MO have a narrow size distribution, with the average particle size being 119 ± 36 nm. Among these three reducing agent MO act as the best reducing agent. Moreover, the anticancer activity of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and ZnO/Ag NPs synthesized with MO were demonstrated in human cervical cancer cells (HeLA). The results revealed that ZnO/Ag NPs demonstrate in vitro cell viability of 72%, 81%, and 84% using 2.5, 5, and 10 μgml−1of ZnO/Ag NPs for 24 h. While Ag NPs and ZnO NPs prepared with MO showed 50% and 60% cell viability using 2.5 μgml−1concentration for 24 h. This showed that the ZnO/Ag NPs act as a strong anticancer agent compared to Ag NPs and ZnO NPs. Overall, this research proposes a green synthesis approach for ZnO/Ag NPs with a wide range of potential uses, particularly in biomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the rising demand for essential oil in the world market, peppermint has gained an important status among aromatic and medicinal plants. It becomes imperative to optimize its performance in terms of the growth, physiological functioning and biosynthesis of specialized metabolites. A factorial randomized pot experiment was performed using three peppermint cultivars (Kukrail, Pranjal and Tushar) and five levels of leaf-applied nitrogen (N), viz. 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2%. The phenological features, biochemical parameters, viability of root cells, stomatal and trichome behavior were assessed at 100 days after transplanting (DAT). The yield-related parameters, viz., herbage yield, essential oil content, menthol content and yield were studied at 120 DAT. The results revealed that increasing the N doses up to 1.5% enhanced all the studied parameters of peppermint, which thereafter (at the dose above 1.5% N) decreased. The variation pattern of the studied parameters was "low-high-low". Cultivar Kukrail surpassed the two other cultivars Tushar and Pranjal. Among the foliar sprays, the application of 1.5% N increased chlorophyll content and net photosynthetic rate in all three cultivars. Moreover, the essential oil (EO), EO yield and menthol yield of the plant were also increased linearly in all three cultivars as compared with their control plants. Nitrogen application enhanced the trichome size and density of the plants, as revealed through scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, from the GC-MS studies, the EO content in the studied cultivars increased, particularly in the case of menthol, with the N application. It may be concluded that two sprays of N (1.5%) at appropriate growth stages could be beneficial for improving morphological, physio biochemical and yield attributes of peppermint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the chemical profile and antioxidant activity of essential oils obtained from the most commonly grown plant species in Serbia. Aromatic and medicinal plants from Lamiaceae (Mentha x Piperita, Ocimum basilicum, Origanum majorana, Origanum vulgare, Salvia officinalis, Satureja hortensis, Satureja montana and Thymus vulgaris), Asteraceae (Ehinacea purpurea and Matricaria chamomilla), Apiaceae (Anethum graveolens, Carum carvi, Foeniculum vulgare, Petroselinum crispum and Pimpinella anisum) and Cupressaceae (Juniperus comunis) were selected as raw material for essential oils (EOs)' isolation. Hydrodistillation (HD) was used for the isolation of EOs while they were evaluated in terms of yield and terpenoid profiles by GC-MS. In vitro radical scavenging DPPH and ABTS+ radical activities were carried out for all EOs. Finally, a principal component analysis (PCA) was performed with the experimental results of the composition and antioxidant activity of the EOs, which showed a clear distinction between the selected plant species for the aforementioned responses. This work represents a screening tool for the selection of other EO candidates for further processing by emerging extraction techniques and the use of EOs as natural additives for meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrimps are perishable food that can degrade quickly. The effects of a gelatin-based nontoxic antimicrobial compound combined with a peppermint oil nanoemulsion on the quality and shelf life of shrimp during storage were examined. The prepared nanoemulsion has satisfactory physical characteristics like size (115 ± 3.7 nm), polydispersity index (0.632), ζ-potential (−24.76 mV), and whiteness index (86.19). The nanoemulsion has antibacterial and antibiofilm activities in vitro against two important food-borne pathogens, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus. Nanoemulsion coating could be an excellent choice for preservation of shrimp as it reduces the overall microbial load, protein oxidation, melanosis, lipid oxidation, and pH of shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids have been shown to have anti-oxidative effects, as well as other health benefits (e.g., anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor functions). Luteolin (3′, 4′, 5,7-tetrahydroxyflavone) is a flavonoid found in vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs, including celery, broccoli, green pepper, navel oranges, dandelion, peppermint, and rosemary. Luteolin has multiple useful effects, especially in regulating inflammation-related symptoms and diseases. In this paper, we summarize the studies about the immunopharmacological activity of luteolin on anti-inflammatory, anti-cardiovascular, anti-cancerous, and anti-neurodegenerative diseases published since 2018 and available in PubMed or Google Scholar. In this review, we also introduce some additional formulations of luteolin to improve its solubility and bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bunium persicum (Boiss), B. Fedtsch or Black cumin, is an economically important medicinal spice that is commonly used as a flavour enhancer and preservative in different food systems. It has also been used in Unani, Iranian, and Indian systems of traditional medicine. A member of the Apiaceae family, it possesses myriad phytochemicals, mainly cuminaldehyde, α-terpinene-7-al, γ-terpinene-7-al, γ-terpinene, ρ-cymene, β-Pinene, etc. and endows various proven therapeutic properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, lipid/glucose lowering activity, anti-carcinogenic activities, etc. This plant grows in the wild in specific areas and is scarcely available and over-exploited; hence, its conservation (both, in vitro and in situ) is a major concern. Besides, negligible work has been done for molecular characterisation, identification and development of promising high yielding cultivars/varieties of this valuable plant. With the aim to attract the attention of potential stakeholders towards the immense potential and infinite qualities of black cumin, this review provides an insight in to the phytochemistry, economic importance, including food and therapeutic uses; morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics of Bunium persicum, along with the efforts towards its conservation and a way forward. Abbreviations BPEO: Bunium persicum essential oil; BPE: B. persicum extract; MPEO: Mentha piperita essential oil; DPPH: 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl; TBA: Thiobarbituric acid; TPC: Total phenolic content; LD50: Lethal dose; IC50: Half maximal inhibitory concentration; BHT: Butylated hydroxy toluene; BHA: Butylated hydroxy anisole; ABTS: 2,2ʹ-Azino-bis (3-ethyl benzo thiazoline-6-sulphonic acid); MICs: Minimum inhibitory concentrations; BSA: Bovine serum albumin; MS: Murashige and Skoog Medium; MSN: Murashige and Skoog medium with Nitsch Vitamins; B5: Gamborg's Medium; 2,4-D: 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid; Kin: Kinetin; JA: Jasmonic acid; IAA: Indole-3-acetic acid; BAP: 6-Benzylaminopurine; IBA: Indole-3-Butyric Acid; TDZ: Thidiazuron; GA3: Gibberellic Acid; ABA: Abscisic Acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, optimization of the extraction of phenol compounds from Mentha piperita using ultrasonic waves with response surface methodology (RSM) was assessed. In this regard, a central composite design with three independent variables of time (5, 27.5, and 50 min), temperature (25, 45, and 65°C), and concentrations of ethanol in the water–ethanol solution (0%, 50%, and 100%) was used. Besides, the antioxidant activity tests (DPPH radical scavenging assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power [FRAP], and oxidative stability indexes [OSI]) were examined. Significant effects of independent variables on the extraction of phenol compound, DPPH radical scavenging power, and OSI of M. piperita extract, with the regression coefficients of 0.89, 0.92, and 0.94, respectively, were noted. However, no significant difference in terms of the FRAP among different treatments was noted. Also, the best antioxidant activity of M. piperita was obtained by using the ultrasonic wave for 50 min at 65°C and 59.6% v/v ethanol/water solution. While the findings of RSM confirmed the experimental results, due to the favored properties of M. piperita extract by the proposed method, further research to investigate possible applications in the food industry is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scheffler reflector (10 m2) integrated peppermint oil (PO) extraction distillation system is developed. Optical loss in reflector and thermal loss in solar still, steam line, and condenser are determined. A solar distillation system of peppermint plants is also subjected to thermal energetic and exergetic study. Exergy and optical efficiencies are 27.58% and 52.25%, respectively, with an average irradiance of 970.5 W/m2 and 6 kg of peppermint for 4 h. Thermal efficiency of solar still, steam line, and condenser are 95.90%, 95.68%, and 87.96%, respectively. Efficiency of system and oil yield per unit of energy consumed is 41.98% and 6.24 ml/kWh, respectively, without insulating steam line. System's efficiency is 46.36%, with an improvement of 2.67% in energy gain by insulating the steam line. Thermodynamic analysis of developed solar steam distillation system (SSDS) for PO extraction will help in finding out energy saving potential at various parts of distillation unit and in improving the performance of distillation unit. This research would provide energy conservation opportunities in various parts of PO extraction SSDS. Exergy analysis and detailed investigation of condenser and steam line are also performed. As a result, incorporating solar energy into PO extraction technology improves opportunities for the source of income in rural areas and increases both income and level of food security for farmers. Practical applications: This research would provide energy conservation opportunities in various parts of peppermint oil (PO) extraction solar steam distillation system. Exergy analysis and detailed investigation of condenser and steam line are also performed. As a result, incorporating solar energy into PO extraction technology improves opportunities for the source of income in rural areas and increases both income and level of food security for farmers. Novelty Statement: Mentioned literature includes thermodynamic analysis of oil extraction system available for crops such as rosemary leaves, basil leaves, etc. Thermodynamic analysis of such a system is limited to these crops and applied to other crops like peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, etc. As these crops possess different chemical properties and have large potential in essential oil market, a comprehensive thermal analysis is needed to identify various thermodynamic parameters to extract peppermint oil (PO) using solar‐assisted steam distillation system. Present work aims to identify energy and power loss due to convection and radiation at different parts of a solar distillation unit. Exergy analysis and detailed investigation of condenser and steam line are also performed. This research would provide energy conservation opportunities in PO extraction solar steam distillation system. Furthermore, the outcomes of present study have been compared with previously published studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mentha arvensis L. and Mentha × piperita L. are herbal plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family and are widely cultivated for their essential oils and culinary uses. These herbs are commercially valuable mints used in the preparation of herbal formulations, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and in food industries. Due to the presence of potential secondary metabolites, mints were employed to treat various disorders since ancient times in traditional medicines. The extracts of M. arvensis and M. × piperita can improve the function of digestive system, central nervous system and respiratory system of the human body. Majority of the health benefits of these herbs are attributed by the essential oil components. In addition, the administration of M. arvensis and M. × piperita under various pathological conditions studied in vitro and in vivo facilitated the recovery of detrimental ailments. Due to the increasing demand for natural product-based medicines, research is focused on the utilization of phytochemicals to treat various ailments. In order to provide a comprehensive overview of health benefits of M. arvensis and M. × piperita, the present endeavor deals with the antioxidant property, anti-inflammatory property, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer activities of both species. However, a deeper knowledge on the specific metabolites of M. arvensis and M. × piperita and their mode of action against different disease targets will accelerate the discovery of novel natural drugs with less side effects and higher efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine antioxidant activity (DPPH and phosphomolybdenum method), polyphenols content (total polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids), mineral compounds composition (Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cr, Ni, Co, Pb and Cd) and antimicrobial activity (with disc diffusion method) of medicinal herbs traditionally used in the Slovak republic. The tested plants belonged to the Primulaceae, Urticaceae, Grossulariaceae, Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Equisetaceae, Tropaeolaceae, and Plantaginaceae families. The highest antioxidant activities were found in samples of Rosa canina L. (DPPH—29.43 ± 0.11 mg TE/g; TE—Trolox equivalent) and Fragaria vesca L. (phosphomolybdenum method—679.56 ± 3.06 mg TE/g), both from the Rosaceae family. Total polyphenols (determined using the Folin–Ciocâlteu-reagent) were most abundant in a sample of Fragaria vesca L.—124.51 ± 5.05 mg GAE/g (GAE—gallic acid equivalent), total flavonoids (determined using the aluminum chloride method)—in a sample of Primula veris L.—48.35 ± 3.77 mg QE/g (QE—quercetin equivalent), and total phenolic acids (determined using Arnova reagent)—in a sample of Thymus serpyllum L.—102.31 ± 2.89 mg CAE/g (CAE—caffeic acid equivalent). Regarding mineral compounds composition, samples of Fragaria vesca L. and Thymus serpyllum L. showed the highest levels of iron. In samples of Calendula officinalis L. and Trapaeolum majus L., the highest amounts of zinc were determined, while copper was the most abundant in samples of Urtica dioica L. and Melissa officinalis L. The amounts of heavy metals were within legally acceptable limits. The extract of Equisetum arvense L. showed the strongest inhibitory activity towards Clostridium perfringens CCM 4991 (6 mm), while the one from Mentha piperita L.—towards Candida glabrata CCM 8270 (4.83 mm) and Candida tropicalis CCM 8223 (4.33 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This work aimed to determine the influence of biopolymer coatings based on pumpkin oil cake, with and without the addition of Mentha piperita essential oil, on the quality and shelf-life of the Afus Ali variety of grapes, stored at room temperature and in the refrigerator. Furthermore, a 10% (w/w) aqueous solution of composite pumpkin oil cake (PuOC) with the addition of 30% glycerol was prepared at 60 °C and pH 10. The active biopolymer coating was prepared similarly by adding 1% (v/v) Mentha piperita essential oil. The quality of packed grapes was tested by determining the dry matter content, total sugar content, total acidity, alcohol content, total phenolic compounds content, and total flavonoid content, as well as by determining the antioxidant activity, through the application of the DPPH, FRAP and ABTS tests. Additionally, microbiological parameters were investigated: total aerobic microbial count, yeasts, and molds. The obtained results proved that in all tested samples, over a certain period of time, the content of dry matter, content of phenolic and flavonoids substances and sugar content decreased as a consequence of the spoilage of grapes, that is, the consumption of sugar for the production of alcohol, which consequently leads to the total acidity increasing. The application of lower storage temperatures and active coating (with Mentha piperita essential oil) had a positive effect on all inevitable reactions. Grapes' antioxidant potential may be enhanced or maintained by applying PuOC coating with or without Mentha piperita essential oil, which is best observed in the case of the DPPH test. The uncoated sample stored at room temperature had the largest decrease in DPPH values during storage, with changes ranging from 2.119 mg/g to 1.471 μmol mg/g. The samples, coated with PuOC and PuOC with the addition of essential oil, had uniform DPPH values throughout the entire storage period. Additionally, regarding phenolic content, at the end of storage period the highest phenolic content was observed in samples with active coating stored at room temperature (734.746 ± 2.462) and at refrigerator temperature (680.827 ± 0.448) compared with untreated samples and with samples with plain PuOC coating. The presence of active essential oil in the applied coating significantly affected the microbiological profile of grapes during the storage period. Besides the positive impact of the applied lower storage temperature, the effectiveness of the applied active packaging is even greater (microbiological results were in the order of PuOC+essential oil < PuOC < Control). The developed artificial neural networks were found to be adequate for modeling the microbiological profile, antioxidant activity, phenolic and flavonoid content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating morphological and molecular mechanisms that plants adopt in response to artificial biophilic lighting is crucial for implementing biophilic approaches in indoor environments. Also, studying the essential oils (EOs) composition in aromatic plants can help unveil the light influence on plant metabolism and open new investigative routes devoted to producing valuable molecules for human health and commercial applications. We assessed the growth performance and the EOs composition of Mentha x piperita and Ocimum basilicum grown under an innovative artificial biophilic lighting system (CoeLux®), that enables the simulation of natural sunlight with a realistic sun perception, and compared it to high-pressure sodium lamps (control) We found that plants grown under the CoeLux® light type experienced a general suppression of both above and belowground biomass, a high leaf area, and a lower leaf thickness, which might be related to the shade avoidance syndrome. The secondary metabolites composition in the plants' essential oils was scarcely affected by both light intensity and spectral composition of the CoeLux® light type, as similarities above 80% were observed with respect to the control light treatments and within both plant species. The major differences were detected with respect to the EOs extracted from plants grown under natural sunlight (52% similarity in M. piperita and 75% in O. basilicum). Overall, it can be speculated that the growth of these two aromatic plants under the CoeLux® lighting systems is a feasible strategy to improve biophilic approaches in closed environments that include both plants and artificial sunlight. Among the two plant species analyzed, O. basilicum showed an overall better performance in terms of both morphological traits and essential oil composition. To increase biomass production and enhance the EOs quality (e.g., higher menthol concentrations), further studies should focus on technical solutions to raise the light intensity irradiating plants during their growth under the CoeLux® lighting systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermentation is an important tool in producing functional beverages through agro-industrial wastes, and medicinal and aromatic plants due to the specific content of bioactive molecules. Therefore, this study evaluated the contribution of Matricaria recutita (chamomile), Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass), or Mentha piperita (peppermint) extracts to the phytochemical profile and potential biological effects of a functional fermented orange beverage in vitro and in silico. The concentrations of aromatic herbal extracts that yielded the best sensory performance for fermented beverages were selected for analyses that involved characterizing the fermented beverages. The beverages that received the extracts (2%) had the highest phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant potential compared to the control. Hesperidin (124–130 mg L−1), narirutin (66–70 mg L−1), chlorogenic (11–16 mg L−1), caffeic (5.3–5.5 mg L−1), and ferulic (1–1.7 mg L−1) acids were found in the different formulations. The in silico analysis suggested that the evaluated compounds do not present a toxicity risk (mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, hepatotoxicity, and ability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier). Additionally, they can contribute to the biological effects of therapeutic importance, such as antioxidant, gastroprotective, and anti-ulcerative properties, and the Mentha piperita L. extract presented the greatest potential among the evaluated herbs for use in functional fermented beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coenzyme Q10 is formulated into Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NLC) added with peppermint oil (PO) 0% (F1), 1% (F2), 1.5% (F3) and 2% (F4) to increase its penetration. Objective: This study aims to determine the effect of PO addition on the irritability, stability, and penetration of Coenzyme Q10 in the NLC. Methods: Coenzyme Q10 NLC was prepared using the High Shear Homogenization method. Furthermore, physical characterization was carried out. Physical stability testing was carried out for 90 days at a temperature of 25±5oC and an RH of 60±10%. The in vivo irritation test was observed for mice's back skin after 24 hours while the penetration study was further evaluated at 2 hours of the sample application. Results: Increasing the PO amount into Coenzyme Q10 NLC reduced the viscosity which was 329.1±15.5 cps for PO 0% to 219.9±2.9 cps for 2% addition. The observation of particle morphology showed that all NLC Coenzyme Q10 has a spherical particle shape with particle size between 188.25±13.22 to 197.80±14.19 nm. All formulas had high entrapment efficiency (>80%). PO addition did not cause changes in physical characteristics during 90 days of storage. The 24 hours' irritation test showed that F2 and F3 are non-irritating. By PO addition skin penetration improved at 2 hours' penetration study. Conclusion: PO addition up to 2% reduced viscosity, but did not affect particle size and morphology of Coenzyme Q10 NLC. Addition of PO up to 1.5% increased entrapment efficiency, did not irritate and increased the penetration of Coenzyme Q10 NLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to develop a formulation of nonalcoholic cocktail concentrate of lemon with mint, of good acceptability, which allows its production on an industrial scale. The lemon concentrate produced by the Research Institute for the Food Industry was taken, which could serve as the basis for the preparation of the cocktail concentrate. With the application of affective tests based on the traditional seven-point hedonic scale and the ideal point scale, known in English as the just-about-right (JAR) scale, the optimal content of an ethanolic solution at 1% m/m in the lemon concentrate (0.8 g/100 g of lemon concentrate). The analysis of penalties, which combines the affective test with the JAR scale to identify the optimal intensity of each sensory attribute, indicates that the parameter that had the greatest weight in the acceptance of the product was the content of essential oil solution, compared to the notes of lemon and sweet. The cocktail concentrate produced with the optimized content of essential oil solution showed 48.2 °Brix, acidity of 0.96%, mold and yeast concentrate less than 102 CFU/mL and an acceptance of 6.3 on a scale of seven points, resulting in a high acceptability rate of 90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of essential oils is increasingly being investigated among new therapeutic approaches based on medicinal plants and their extracts. With the wide use of synthetic and semi-synthetic antimicrobial drugs, the spread of drug-resistant clinical isolates has increased, and research is directed towards natural products, such as essential oils, as useful antimicrobial resources. In the context of a prospective infection, we compared the impact of essential oils and common antimicrobial agents on the microbicidal activity of human phagocytes. Here, we present the results of our decades-long investigation into the effectiveness of thyme red oil (26.52% thymol chemotype), tea tree oil (TTO), and Mentha of Pancalieri [(Mentha x piperita (Huds) var. officinalis (Sole), form rubescens (Camus) (Lamiaceae)] essential oils on human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) capacity to kill clinical strains of Candida albicans and C. krusei when compared to three antifungal drugs used to treat candidiasis (fluconazole, anidulafungin, and caspofungin) These essential oils demonstrate antifungal drug-like and/or superior efficacy in enhancing intracellular killing by PMNs, even at subinhibitory concentrations. Our results are compared with data in the literature on essential oils and immune system interactions. This comparison would aid in identifying therapeutic solutions to the increasingly prevalent antibiotic resistance as well as filling in any remaining knowledge gaps on the bioactivity of essential oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance and the emergence of novel pathogens pose a serious threat to public health and animals around the world. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) has a variety of therapeutic features, one of which is an antibacterial property that can be helpful in preventing infections in wildlife. This property can be found in the extracts of both the stem and the leaf of the plant. In the current investigation, an extract of Mentha piperita (M. piperita) or clocally named as peppermint stem and leaf was produced in methanol at a concentration of 70 percent to test its effectiveness as an antibacterial agent against three Gramnegative bacteria. i.e. Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and against one Gram-positive Bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Fresh feces and skin swab samples were taken from wild sheep in the Wildlife Park Gatwala, Faisalabad, during February 2022. The isolated strains of bacteria were identified and confirmed microbiologically. Peppermint (stem and leaf) extracts prepared with methanol were examined for their efficacy against the identified pathogens. The extracts demonstrated higher inhibitory zones (leaf: 17.5mm, stem:16mm) against S. aureus. S. Typhimurium, P. aeruginosa and E. coli. The leaf extract showed zones of inhibition of 16.5, 16, 15.5 and 13mm while stem extract produced zones of inhibition of 15.5, 14, 16.5, 15mm against S. aureus. S. Typhimurium, P. aeruginosa and E. coli, respectively. Furthermore, the broth dilution method revealed that the MIC of peppermint (stem and leaf) was 0.4mg/ml against all tested bacterial strains. Altogether, these findings indicate that peppermint extracts may be useful in combating common bacterial infections of wild sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to formulate and characterize the micro-emulsions of peppermint and coriander oil that extracted by using supercritical fluid extraction system. Moreover, Guar gum and maltodextrin were used as coating materials while preparing encapsulates of peppermint and coriander through freeze-drying. The moisture contents of mint leaves and coriander were 81.28 ± 7.12 and 84.62 ± 6.46% respectively whereas the recorded protein content in mint and coriander leaves were 1.456 ± 0.13 and 5.06 ± 0.03% respectively. The crude fat was high in mint leaves as compared to coriander. However, the ash content was 2.98 ± 0.278 in mint and 2.8 ± 0.12 in coriander leaves. The total phenolic contents (TPC) and antioxidant activity coriander essential oil was high as compared to peppermint oil. The results showed the better antioxidant activity of coriander than peppermint. Encapsulation efficiency of powder showed significant results of wall material. T3 (maltodextrin and coriander oil) exhibited better binding capability of bioactive components as compared to guar gum and mint. T3 was coriander and maltodextrin better ability to inhibit the oxidation process and had good DPPH assays as compared to other treatments. This study showed that the T3 (maltodextrin and coriander oil) exhibited better binding capability of bioactive components as compared to guar gum and mint. T3 was (coriander and maltodextrin) better ability to inhibit the oxidation process and had good DPPH assays to other treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overuse of agrochemicals and development of pesticide resistance in plant pathogens is a main challenge in conventional agriculture. The use of biopesticides based on natural substances is recognized as an effective alternative of conventional pesticides. Besides the beneficial microorganisms, some plant species can be a source of microbiologically active compounds. Among the most promising are Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum, Centaurea finazzeri, Achillea crithmifolia, Artemisia spp, Thymus pulegioides, Tanacetum parthenium, Clinopodium vulgare, Salvia sclarea, Lavandula officinalis and Mentha piperita. The filamentous fungi from genus Trichoderma are some of the most studied biocontrol agents because of their versatile mode of action. They employ several different strategies to combat plant pathogens, like direct mycoparasitism, production of enzymes and antibiotic substances, competition, ability to induce resistance in plants to a variety of stresses. Cost-effective cultivation and mass production of Trichoderma sp. biomass and formulations will allow utilization of locally available low-cost materials, such as different wastes and by-products that could be used as a growth substrate for production of adequate biomass containing effective propagules with or without minimal adjustments to the composition of cultivation media. This review outlines the two major mass production methods - solid and liquid state fermentation of Trichoderma spp. The possibilities for development of novel products for the bioindustry are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In July 2007, the effectiveness of essential oils were tested as repellents against cockroaches in Thailand. This experimental study tested the effects of several different essential oils on three different species of cockroaches. In this study, only one of the species from the experiment completed in Thailand was used, Periplaneta americana, as well as a different set of essential oils: peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, and orange. By only observing the effectiveness of different essential oils as a repellent for Periplaneta americana, in comparison to multiple species at once, a more controlled experiment was able to be conducted with the reduction of variables. As a result, the data can be used in species specific control. Sticky traps with each repellent were placed around a building at Texas A&M University - College Station. In the conclusion of the experiment, the insecticide, Raid, was found to be the most effective as a repellent. The second most effective, and first most for the essential oils, was peppermint. Lavender and orange were the least effective in comparison to the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress (DS) negatively affects plant growth, productivity, and quality in semi-arid and arid regions. Nowadays, application of biofertilizers and stress-modulating nanoparticles (NPs) improves plant performance under stressful conditions. The study evaluated the impacts of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Myco-Root) and TiO2 NPs on the nutrient uptake, dry yield, essential oil (EO) productivity, and EO quality of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) under different irrigation regimes. The treatments included three irrigation regimes containing irrigation after 20% (I20, well-watered), 40% (I40, mild DS), and 60% (I60, severe DS) maximum allowable depletion (MAD) percentage of the soil's available water as well as four fertilizer sources contain no fertilization (control), Myco-Root biofertilizer, TiO2 NPs, and an integrative application of Myco-Root + TiO2 NPs. The results demonstrated that the highest (195.72 g m−2) and the lowest dry yield (78.76 g m−2) of peppermint was obtained in well-watered conditions with integrative application of Myco-Root + TiO2 NPs and severe drought stress (I60) without fertilization, respectively. The dry yield of peppermint was reduced by 27.7 and 53.4% in mild (I40) and severe drought stress (I60), respectively. The maximum EO content (1.49%) and EO yield (2.30 g m−2) was recorded in mild drought stress (I40) treated with Myco-Root + TiO2 NPs. Based on the GC-MS and GC-FID analysis, 29 constituents were identified in peppermint EO, with the major constituents being menthol (38.99–52%), menthone (12.72–20.13%), 1,8-cineole (6.55–7.84%), and neo-menthol (3.14–4.52%), respectively. The maximum content of menthol, 1,8-cineole, and neo-menthol was obtained under mild drought stress (I40) fertilized with Myco-Root + TiO2 NPs. The results indicate that the integrative application of Myco-Root + TiO2 NPs could be used as an alternative method of using chemical fertilizers in sustainable agricultural systems for improving the EO quantity and quality of peppermint grown under drought stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr) burden in fruits and vegetables in Southern European countries such as Turkey, Spain, Italy, Kosovo, Croatia, Greece, and Romania are compared and analyzed in this review article to account for any significant differences. Potential sources of the metals and their health issues have been underlined. Various reasons for the extent of the metals' uptake are highlighted, including species' nature, soil pH and atmospheric conditions. In Croatia, the highest Cd burden was observed in lettuce (1.16±0.24 mg/kg), followed by carrot (0.49±0.18 mg/kg) and onion (0.28±0.08 mg/kg). The concentration of Cd in peppermint and spinach has been reported as 0.004±0.001 µg/g and 0.024±0.001 µg/g, respectively, in Turkey. Spain's strawberries, melon, and bananas have shown 0.0025 mg/kg, 0.0028 mg/kg, and 0.0005 mg/kg of Cd, respectively. The Cr level in Croatia's vegetables was less than the detection limit of the instrument. In Romania, its concentration in cabbage and potato root was 17.5 ± 0.7 mg/kg and 4.7 ± 0.3 mg/kg, respectively. Similarly, in Greece, the highest levels of Cr were found in green peas (0.21 ± 0.03 µg/g), followed by onion (0.16 ± 0.07 µg/g) and cabbage (0.13 ± 0.08 µg/g). The fruits and vegetables of most regions have shown a greater burden of Cd than Cr. Several strategies could be implemented to minimize the extent to which the plants take up these metals and reduce their environmental risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Essential oil mainly contains volatile constituents making it vulnerable upon exposure to the external environment. The encapsulation method is known to protect the bioactive components of the essential oil from damage, in which alginate was used as the hydrogel in this study. This work investigates the physicochemical stability of the peppermint oil encapsulated within alginate beads (1.5% and 2.0%) during its five weeks of storage. Peppermint oil (PO) was added at four different weight ratios to alginate, which were 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, and 2:1. The encapsulation technique involves mixing alginate and oil using a homogeniser. Constituents profiling was done weekly using UVVis spectrophotometer and Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Investigation revealed that 1.5% (w/w) alginate in a weight ratio of 1:1 has the highest encapsulation efficiency, which was 42.00%, while for 2.0% (w/w) alginate, the weight ratio of 1:2 gave a maximum encapsulation efficiency of 33.38%. Assessment of the beads' diameter with time showed little physical changes throughout storage time. The constituents profile of the oil indicates a decline in the chemical constituents between a pure sample and the encapsulated peppermint oil. This might be associated with the heat generated during mixing or exposure to the light during the preparation stage. Even so, the analysis of the encapsulated oil each week suggested no striking changes, indicating the stability of the peppermint oil encapsulated in the alginate beads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils have been mainly used in aromatherapy, but they have gained the attention of the food industry in the last decade due to their ability to control the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. The essential oil content of plant tissue varies according to the stage of development of the plant, the parts of the plant (leaves, flowers, roots, etc.) as well as the method of extraction. Commonly used techniques for extracting essential oils include hydrodistillation, steam distillation (Chialva et al.,1982), solvent extraction, (Chialva et al.,1982) and CO2 extraction (Takeoka et al.,1985). The composition of the extracted oil may vary from one extraction method to another. The essential oils used in this study were: clove, peppermint, cinnamon, sage, orange. Observations were made on extraction yield, MIC for Lactobacillus bulgaricus, and comparative antimicrobial activity with two commonly used antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]