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Improved understanding of the complex interaction between plant metabolism, environmental conditions and the plant-associated microbiome requires an interdisciplinary approach: Our hypothesis in our multiomics study posited that several environmental and biotic factors have modulating effects on the microbiome and metabolome of the roots of wild Echium vulgare plants. Furthermore, we postulated reciprocal interactions between the root metabolome and microbiome. We investigated the metabolic content, the genetic variability, and the prokaryotic microbiome in the root systems of wild E. vulgare plants at rosette and flowering stages across six distinct locations. We incorporated the assessment of soil microbiomes and the measurement of selected soil chemical composition factors. Two distinct genetic clusters were determined based on microsatellite analysis without a consistent alignment with the geographical proximity between the locations. The microbial diversity of both the roots of E. vulgare and the surrounding bulk soil exhibited significant divergence across locations, varying soil pH characteristics, and within the identified plant genetic clusters. Notably, acidophilic bacteria were characteristic inhabitants of both soil and roots under acidic soil conditions, emphasizing the close interconnectedness between these compartments. The metabolome of E. vulgare significantly differed between root samples from different developmental stages, geographical locations, and soil pH levels. The developmental stage was the dominant driver of metabolome changes, with significantly higher concentrations of sugars, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and some of their precursors in rosette stage plant roots. Our study featured the complex dynamics between soil pH, plant development, geographical locations, plant genetics, plant metabolome and microbiome, shedding light on existing knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improved understanding of the complex interaction between plant metabolism, environmental conditions and the plant-associated microbiome requires an interdisciplinary approach: Our hypothesis in our multiomics study posited that several environmental and biotic factors have modulating effects on the microbiome and metabolome of the roots of wild Echium vulgare plants. Furthermore, we postulated reciprocal interactions between the root metabolome and microbiome. We investigated the metabolic content, the genetic variability, and the prokaryotic microbiome in the root systems of wild E. vulgare plants at rosette and flowering stages across six distinct locations. We incorporated the assessment of soil microbiomes and the measurement of selected soil chemical composition factors. Two distinct genetic clusters were determined based on microsatellite analysis without a consistent alignment with the geographical proximity between the locations. The microbial diversity of both the roots of E. vulgare and the surrounding bulk soil exhibited significant divergence across locations, varying soil pH characteristics, and within the identified plant genetic clusters. Notably, acidophilic bacteria were characteristic inhabitants of both soil and roots under acidic soil conditions, emphasizing the close interconnectedness between these compartments. The metabolome of E. vulgare significantly differed between root samples from different developmental stages, geographical locations, and soil pH levels. The developmental stage was the dominant driver of metabolome changes, with significantly higher concentrations of sugars, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and some of their precursors in rosette stage plant roots. Our study featured the complex dynamics between soil pH, plant development, geographical locations, plant genetics, plant metabolome and microbiome, shedding light on existing knowledge gaps.

The study is aimed to evaluate the effects of Echium amoenum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. and Cichorium intybus L. extracts on the liver of Wistar rats. Ninty rats were divided into 15 groups. Group 1 received physiological serum, groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 40 mg/Kg, 6, 7, 8 and 9, 400 mg/Kg, 10, 11, 12 and 13, 1000 mg/Kg aqueous and ethanolic extract of C.intybus and E. amoenum, group 14 and 15, 400 mg/Kg combined aqueous and ethanolic extracts. Blood samples were collected to assay AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, MDA, total protein and bilirubin levels. The effect of different concentrations of aqueous extracts of Chicory and Echium on AST, ALT, ALP, GGT and bilirubin levels is the same. Concentrations of 40 to 1000 mg/kg of Chicory ethanol extract had different effects on AST, ALP and bilirubin, but in the case of ALT, the differences were between 40 and 400 mg/kg. The flavonoid and anthocyanin contents were the highest in ethanolic extract of Echium. Antioxidant activity and total phenols content in ethanolic extract were higher than aqueous extract. The use of aqueous extract of Chicory in high concentrations did not harm the liver. Ethanolic extracts of both plants at 1000 mg/Kg will damage the liver. The ethanolic extracts of both plants contain many phenolic compounds that increase the inhibition of free radicals in this extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three species of Echiostachys are recognised. • Full nomenclature and typification are provided. • The lectotype of Echium spicatum is illustrated. • All species are fully described and illustrated. The small genus Echiostachys Levyns (Boraginaceae: Lithospermeae) is revised. It was segregated from Lobostemon Lehm. on the basis of the herbaceous habit, radical foliage, spiciform inflorescence, slightly accrescent calyx, and lack of staminal scales. Three species are recognised. An identification key, descriptions, full nomenclature, illustrations, and distribution maps are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Pain after periodontal surgeries is one of the most common complications. Echium amoenum is among the important therapeutic herbs in Iranian traditional medicine. Various studies have shown its pain control properties. This study aimed to evaluate this herb's efficacy in controlling pain after periodontal surgeries. Methods. In this randomized clinical trial, 50 patients referred to Tabriz Dental School for clinical crown lengthening surgery were divided into two equal groups: control and test. In the test group (using E. amoenum), 24 hours before surgery, E. amoenum was administered to the patient at home every 12 hours, and a dose of E. amoenum was administered one hour before the procedure. The postoperative pain was assessed using VAS 30 minutes, 1 hour, and 3 hours after the surgery and verbal rating scale (VRS) 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. A chi-square test was used to compare the pain severity between the two groups. Results. The VAS index was significantly lower in the E. amoenum group compared to the control group (30 minutes, 1 hour, and 3 hours after the procedure) (P < 0.05). In both groups, pain severity increased significantly up to 3 hours postoperatively (P < 0.05). In the first 24 hours, the VRS index of the E. amoenum group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05), with no significant differences between the two groups at 48 and 72 hours (P > 0.05). Conclusion. The E. amoenum herb reduced the pain severity after clinical crown lengthening surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines fatty acid variations within Echium plantagineum L. populations in northwestern Türkiye. Significant differences in fatty acid ratios between locations suggest their potential for population segregation using chemometric data as a conceptual approach. Seed oil content ranged from 17 % to 29 %, with PUFAs being the most abundant group (60–75 %). SFA and MUFA concentrations ranged from 10 % to 15 % and 11–19 %, respectively. Total n3 and n6 fatty acids were 35–50.5 % and 22–32 % individually. USFA levels varied from 76 % to 87 %. GLA (9.26 %) and SDA (10.09 %) were notable. While overall fatty acid profiles showed no location-based differences, significant variations were observed in individual major fatty acids, unusual fatty acids, and certain ratios (e.g., SDA/GLA, USFA/SFA, PUFA/MUFA, n3/n6). These variations may aid in taxonomical delineation and population discrimination. Given the species' broad distribution and rich gene pool, high-yielding genotypes with desirable fatty acid profiles could be identified for agricultural purposes and biotechnological crop improvement. [Display omitted] • Echium plantagineum L. is an industrial crop plant. • The largest intraspecific study on E. plantagineum in Turkey. • SDA and GLA are found in high amounts in E. plantagineum. • Nutraceutical potential as a source of terrestrial omega-3 and omega-6. • Fatty acid ratios are reliable tool for chemotaxonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echium seed oil has been considered an important alternative source of omega 3 fatty acids (n‐3 FA) for human consumption. Considering the oxidative instability of n‐3 FA richer oils, the objective of this study was to determine the chemical and sensory parameters of the oil obtained from Echium plantagineum seeds obtained by three extraction methods (hydraulic press: HYD; continuous screw press: PRESS; and solvent technique: SOLV). Stearidonic acid (C18:4, n3), the most important n‐3 FA present in the oil, changed from 12.5% to 12.7%. Regarding the minor compounds, PRESS sample showed the highest concentration of gamma‐tocopherol (782.24 mg/kg oil), while SOLV samples presented the highest amount of β‐sitosterol (73.46 mg/100 g) with no difference of campesterol concentration (159.56 mg/100 g) among the samples. Higher values of total phenolics (19.65 mg GAE/kg oil) and β‐carotene (34.83 mg/kg oil) were also found in the SOLV samples, suggesting the influence of hexane in the extraction of these bioactive compounds. High resolution mass spectrometry identified caffeic acid and its derivatives as the main phenolic compounds present in the echium oil. PRESS sample showed the best oxidative stability as measured by PV (0.61 mmol/kg oil) and malondialdehyde (173.13 µmol), probably due to faster time of processing compared to HYD and SOLV samples. Our data showed that the extraction method changed the chemical composition of the minor compounds in the echium oil, but these alterations did not reduce its nutritional quality or sensory acceptability. Practical Application: Echium oil represents a great potential source of omega 3 fatty acids, but there is not enough information about its oxidative stability and chemical composition, especially toward minor compounds. Our study characterizes echium oil composition obtained from three extraction methods, contributing to amplify the technical information about this important alternative oil for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of Echium creticum L. is recorded for first time in Argentina, in the south west of Buenos Aires province. This species is native from Creta island with 3 to 5 subspecies distributed along the Mediterranean Basin. This paper describes the species and inform about its presence in Sierra de la Ventana, Sierras de Cura Malal and surronding areas in Saavedra county.

Background: Iranian borage, Echium amoenum, is believed to improve reproduction according to folk medicine. Although E. amoenum distillate known as “Aragh Gav-zaban” is widely consumed as a safe and natural remedy, its possible effects on fertility have not yet been scientifically examined. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of borage distillate (BD) on reproductive parameters of male mice.Methods: In this experimental study, 30 adult male Mus musculus mice (30-35 g) were equally divided into three groups. The control group received distilled water (DW) for five weeks and the other two groups, BD1/2 and BD1/4, received borage distillate of 1/2 dilution (150±2.5 ml/kg/day) and 1/4 dilution (75±1.25 ml/kg/day), respectively, ad libitum for three weeks and DW for 2 weeks. On the day 35, mice were sacrificed, sperm analysis was performed, and sera were collected to evaluate gonadotropins, testosterone, and toxicity parameters. The left testis was excised for stereological study and the right testis was used to evaluate androgen receptor (AR) gene expression. Results: The administration of BD1/2 significantly increased serum FSH (P=0.004), LH (P=0.025), testosterone (P=0.014), the percentage of motile (P=0.011); slow progressive (P=0.001), coiled tail (P

The sub-alpine zones of oceanic islands are unique and dynamic ecosystems with high levels of endemism, making them particularly suitable model systems in which to investigate evolutionary and biogeographic processes. The sub-alpine flora of the Canary Islands is restricted to the islands of Tenerife and La Palma. Its origins are poorly understood. Echium wildpretii Hook.f. is an iconic species of the subalpine zones of these two islands, with distinct subspecies recognized on each island. This study examines patterns of genetic and morphological diversity in E. wildpretii to investigate the diversity and evolution of the lineage. Nine microsatellite markers were designed and used to investigate population genetic structure and patterns of gene flow within and between islands and populations. Morphological characters were assessed to test the distinctiveness of the two subspecies recognized. Strong genetic differentiation was observed between islands with higher genetic diversity on the younger island of La Palma than on Tenerife. Very low levels of inter-island gene flow were observed indicating that these taxa are reproductively isolated and evolving independently. Morphological analysis confirmed the distinctiveness of plants from the two islands. Given their genetic and morphological distinctiveness the taxa on Tenerife and La Palma merit recognition as distinct species. Higher genetic diversity in the La Palma species is consistent with an origin of the lineage on this island via upslope colonization, followed by dispersal to Tenerife where the plants show lower genetic diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products' inflammatory and antioxidant properties have crucial roles in tissue repair and regeneration. This study aimed to investigate HPLC analysis, antioxidant activity, and wound-healing effect of Echium amoenum (EA) on rats. The EA was analysed for the determination of shikonin a derivative of naphthoquinone. In the wound healing assessment, forty Wistar rats were divided into five groups that were receiving the cream base, normal saline (NS), 1% silver sulfadiazine (SSD), and 5 and 10% EA cream (EAC). Shikonin was found in the EA extract. The average wound area on the 10th day was 0.71 ± 0.01, 0.86 ± 0.13, 0.58 ± 0.08, 0.53 ± 0.03 and 0.43 ± 0.04 cm 2 for the cream base, NS, SSD, and 5 and 10% EAC, respectively. The collagen fibres were well formed and horizontally oriented in 5 and 10% EAC groups compared to other groups. EA cream was an effective treatment for wound healing in comparison with SSD.

Se registra por primera vez la presencia de Echium creticum L. en Argentina, en el suroeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires. Esta especie es originaria de la isla de Creta y cuenta con 3 a 5 subespecies distribuidas en la cuenca del Mediterráneo. En este trabajo se describe la especie y se informa sobre su presencia en las sierras del sur de la Provincia de Buenos Aires y en áreas aledañas del partido de Saavedra.

Echium seed oil is an alternative source of omega 3 fatty acids but it is highly susceptible to oxidation. A combination of three natural strategies was proposed in this study aiming to improve the oxidative stability of echium oil obtained by pressing (PO) or solvent extraction (PSO), kept in the storage condition for 180 days or during the consumption for 30 days. Our results showed that the reduction of temperature was sufficient to keep the oil stable during storage for both samples. During the consumption time, the best stability was achieved by adding a mixture of antioxidants, composed of sinapic (500 ppm), ascorbic (250 ppm), and citric (150 ppm) acids, and/or 20% of high oleic sunflower oil. The combined strategies promoted a 34 to 80% reduction of peroxide value and 0 to 85% reduction of malondialdehyde concentrations in the samples, showing to be a feasible and natural alternative to improve the oxidative stability of echium oil. Practical Application: Our study successfully applied an optimized combination of simple and low‐cost strategies to enhance the chemical stability of echium seed oil. As the use of echium oil expands around the world, the oil industry and final consumers may benefit from our results to increase the oil shelf‐life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical oxidation of leaves extract of lemon verbena and the flowers extract of echium amoenum have been studied in the absence and presence of barbituric acid and 1,3 dimethyl barbituric acidin aqueous solutions and biological pH, using cyclic voltammetry method. The results showed that the electrochemically generated compounds in leaves extract of lemon verbena and the flowers extract of echium amoenum, participate in the chemical reaction with barbituric acid and 1,3 dimethyl barbituric acid. Based on our results, leaves extractof lemon verbena and the flowers extract of echium amoenum have a high antioxidant activity in comparison with galic acid, salicylic acid and quercetin as standard antioxidants and simultaneous can be useful for the treatment of barbiturate poisoning before starting clinical treatments. The antioxidant activity of luteoline and verbascoside (as the main and natural compounds in lemon verbena) against some of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation enzymes, Cytochrome P450 3A4 (4D75), Myeloperoxidase (1DNW) and Thyosine (3nm8) has been performed through molecular docking studies. The results indicated that these natural compounds bound exclusively to the binding site of ROS generation enzymes and has a remarkable role in suppressing the destructive effects of oxidative stress in the biological system of the human body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Iranian borage, Echium amoenum, is believed to improve reproduction according to folk medicine. Although E. amoenum distillate known as "Aragh Gav-zaban" is widely consumed as a safe and natural remedy, its possible effects on fertility have not yet been scientifically examined. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of borage distillate (BD) on reproductive parameters of male mice. Methods: In this experimental study, 30 adult male Mus musculus mice (30-35 g) were equally divided into three groups. The control group received distilled water (DW) for five weeks and the other two groups, BD1/2 and BD1/4, received borage distillate of 1/2 dilution (150±2.5 ml/kg/day) and 1/4 dilution (75±1.25 ml/kg/day), respectively, ad libitum for three weeks and DW for 2 weeks. On the day 35, mice were sacrificed, sperm analysis was performed, and sera were collected to evaluate gonadotropins, testosterone, and toxicity parameters. The left testis was excised for stereological study and the right testis was used to evaluate androgen receptor (AR) gene expression. Results: The administration of BD1/2 significantly increased serum FSH (P=0.004), LH (P=0.025), testosterone (P=0.014), the percentage of motile (P=0.011); slow progressive (P=0.001), coiled tail (P<0.001) sperms, and the number of Leydig cells (P=0.008) compared to the control group. Treatment with BD1/4 significantly increased sperm count (P=0.044) and motile sperms percentage (P=0.040) compared to the control group too. The administration of BD revealed no significant effects on toxicity parameters and AR gene expression. Conclusion: The findings of the present study showed that the consumption of borage distillate, as a safe herbal remedy, improves hormonal and sperm parameters in male mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic fungi as well as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to stimulate plant growth and production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants. Here, 10 endophytic fungi isolated from roots of wild Alkanna tinctoria plants and 5 AMF purchased from the Glomeromycota in vitro collection were evaluated, during two successive three-month greenhouse experiments, on the growth of Echium vulgare and alkannin/shikonin and their derivatives (A/Sd) production in the roots. Some of the endophytic fungi tested significantly increased plant growth parameters as compared to the control: Cladosporium allicinum, Cadophora sp., Clonostachys sp., Trichoderma hispanicum and Leptosphaeria ladina increased root volume, Plectosphaerella sp. And T. hispanicum root fresh weight and root water retention and T. hispanicum plant water retention. However, none of these fungi impacted A/Sd production. Conversely, none of the AMF strains tested impacted plant growth parameters, but those inoculated with Rhizophagus intraradices MUCL 49410 had a significantly higher concentration of alkannin/shikonin (A/S), acetyl-A/S, β,β- dimethylacryl-A/S, isovaleryl-A/S and total A/Sd, compared to the control plants. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms involved in the production of A/Sd in plants associated to specific endophytic fungi/AMF and on the cultivation conditions required for optimal production of these compounds., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 British Mycological Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Oceanic island ecosystems favour the appearance of novel interactions as a consequence of their depauperate and disharmonic flora and fauna. We investigated Echium simplex, endemic to the Anaga Biosphere Reserve in NE Tenerife, Canary Islands, belongs to the Canarian bird–flower element.Along two flowering seasons, we studied the breeding system of E. simplex, identified the floral visitors and compared the pollination effectiveness of different animal guilds (insects versus vertebrates) by means of selective exclosures.E. simplex is self‐compatible but selfing significantly reduced fruit set. The flowers were visited by five bird species (mostly Phylloscopus canariensis and Serinus canarius, but also Cyanistes teneriffae, Sylvia atricapilla and Sylvia melanocephala), a lizard species (Gallotia galloti) and over a hundred insect species (mainly hymenopterans and coleopterans). Flying insects increased fruit set whereas small flower dwellers (mostly beetles) decreased both fruit and seed set. Vertebrates had a negligible effect on reproductive success.We conclude that although the floral resources provided by E. simplex may be important to some vertebrate species, these do not appear to contribute to increase fitness of the plant, which was more dependent upon flying insects for fruit and seed set. We additionally found that plant reproductive structures are heavily damaged by feral goats, which threaten the maintenance of this Canarian endemic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Extraction of Echium vulgare seed oil by SC-O 2 extraction was modelled and optimized. • Optimal conditions were 62 °C and 400 bar for extraction temperature and pressure, respectively. • Echium oil obtained under optimum conditions contained approximately 16.2% oleic acid and 72.3% polyunsaturated fatty acids. Abstract Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction was used to extract oil from Echium vulgare seeds. Response surface methodology was applied to analyze the effect of temperature (30, 50 and 70 °C) and pressure (200, 300 and 400 bar) on the oil extraction yield. All extractions were performed at a constant CO 2 flow rate of 3 kg/h and at a constant time of 120 min. The analysis of variance indicated that linear coefficients of temperature and pressure, the quadratic term coefficients of temperature and the interactions between pressure and temperature had significant effects on the oil yield under tested conditions. The optimal conditions were found to be 62 °C and 400 bar. Under these conditions, echium oil yield was predicted to be 14.4%. Composition analysis revealed that echium oil contains approximately 16.2% oleic acid and 72.3% polyunsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of the oil were determined in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Although the genus Echium is well known for its traditional uses as food and medicine, but there is a lack of information about its health beneficial effects confirmed with modern studies. So, in this study, total phytochemical content, antioxidant, and enzyme inhibitory effects of various extracts of Echium amoenum (borage) petals were evaluated. Moreover, rosmarinic acid content of the extracts was determined using HPLC analysis. The decoction, infusion, and methanolic extract contained high amount of phenolics (phenols, flavonoids, and tannins). The best antioxidant activity was exhibited by decoction and hydroalcoholic extract. The decoction showed the highest DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity with IC 50 values of 22.8 and 17.1 μg/mL, respectively. Given to the OH radical, the hydroalcoholic extract indicated the highest scavenging effect (IC 50 110.8 μg/mL). Concerning the ferric-reducing power, superiority of the decoction made it be different with other samples. According to the enzymatic assays, the decoction manifested the best inhibition against α-amylase and α-glucosidase (IC 50 40.8 and 16.9 μg/mL, respectively). The decoction also exerted the highest tyrosinase inhibition effect. Methanolic extract exhibited better inhibition against cholinesterases. It could be concluded that rosmarinic acid content and also antioxidant capacity is the highest in samples which are obtained using hot water. These results support the use of E. amoenum decoction and infusion in folk medicine and suggest that the plant could be used as a rich source of natural antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory agents. Highlights • Decoction, infusion, methanolic and hydromethanolic extracts were prepared using different methods. • Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of high amounts of phenolics and saponins. • Promising antioxidant activities were observed. • Key enzymes inhibitory potential linked to Alzheimer's disease, Diabetes mellitus, and skin disorders • Quantification of rosmarinic acid using RP-HPLC-DAD technique [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants and their components have maintained importance in human life as medicinal and aromatic ingredients that have been used by people for many centuries. Nature is the chief source of these valuable resources and humans use these plants directly after collection from their habitat. Therefore, the places where such plants grow have become highly important for understanding the role and behaviour of the accumulation of various elements, especially heavy metals. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the levels of heavy metals in Echium italicum L. plants collected from seven different locations in the province of Sivas in Northern Turkey. Heavy metal pollution was determined in the analysis of the plants. A significant difference was observed in the amounts of heavy metals between plants growing in areas with high vehicle traffic and in the plants growing in low traffic areas. This is of great importance for medical and aromatic plants, which are usually collected from areas of natural growth. Therefore, when these plants are collected from the wild, low traffic areas should be selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder greatly accompanied by oxidative stress and acetylcholine reduction in synaptic cleft that leads to dementia. Previously approved there is correlation between nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) degeneration and loss of memory, learning ability and thought. The aim of this study was to investigate improving effects of Echium amoenum aqueous extract on memory deficient, pathophysiological and oxidative damages imposed by NBM lesion in rats as documented AD model. Results showed NBM destruction causes hash oxidative stress that possibly leads to neurodegeneration in hippocampus tissue. Orally administration of plant extract significantly reduced oxidative stress by reactive molecules scavenging that resulted to decrease lipid peroxidation also. Plant extract treatment inhibited acetylcholine esterase enzyme (more than 5 folds) in hippocampus tissue related to NBM lesioned rats. Histological studies approved NBM lesion causes harsh neurodegeneration in hippocampus tissue possibly by acetylcholine reduction that was compensated by plant extract protective effects. Interestingly improving effects of plant in molecular level causes improved spatial learning ability in Morris water maze test. By considering pathophysiological and molecular similarities between AD and NBM lesion model, E. amoenum could be used as a therapeutic adjuvant in patients suffering from Alzheimer or similar cognitive disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echium amoenum Fisch. and Mey. (Boraginaceae) is a plant which is used widely in Iranian folk medicine, especially for anxiety and depression. In this study, published scientific reports about the composition and pharmacological properties of this plant were reviewed. The electronic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and Scientific Information Database were searched from 1970 to May 2016 and the data were summarized.Efficacy of E. amoenum (especially petals of E. amoenum) was studied in different in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evaluations. Furthermore, some chemical compounds such as rosmarinic acid, echimidine, and cyanogenic glycosides were isolated from E. amoenum petals. According to the results, E. amoenum showed various biological activities such as antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, analgesic, immunomodulatory, and anxiolytic effects. Clinical studies on E. amoenum showed effectiveness of this plant in depression and anxiety disorders. More clinical trials are recommended for evaluating different beneficial effects of this plant in human models and synthesis of new drugs from the active ingredients of this plant in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intake of omega-3 fatty acids and phytosterols aids in the reduction of cholesterol and serum triglycerides. However, both fatty acids and phytosterols are susceptible to oxidation. This work coencapsulated echium oil (source of stearidonic and alpha-linolenic fatty acids) and beta-sitosterol (phytosterol) by complex coacervation using different combinations of wall materials, and sinapic acid (SA) and transglutaminase as crosslinkers. High encapsulation yields were obtained (29–93% for SA; 68–100% for the mixture of oil and phytosterols) and retention of 49–99% and 16% for encapsulated and free SA, at 30 days-storage. Treatment with gelatin-arabic gum and 0.075 g SA/g gelatin showed the best results: 0.07 mg MDA/g capsule, and retention of 96, 90 and 74% for alpha-linolenic, stearidonic acid and beta-sitosterol at 30 days of storage, respectively. Thus, coencapsulation of echium oil and phytosterol using SA as the crosslinker was possible, obtaining effective vehicles for protection and application of these compounds in foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four previously undescribed sucrose diester of aryldihydronaphthalene-type lignans, named echiumins A-D, were isolated from the butanol fraction of Echium angustifolium Mill, in addition to a known compound, trigonotin A, which is reported for the first time from the title plant. The structures of isolated compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic methods such as HRESIMS and 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The isolated compounds displayed strong to weak antitumor activity against HepG2 and MCF7 cancer cell lines, with echiumins A and D showed the most potent activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Omega‐3 fatty acids (n3 FA) promote beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases, but they are highly susceptible to oxidation, which leads to the formation of potentially toxic secondary products. In this study, the antioxidant capacity of natural compounds (sinapic acid and rutin) was evaluated using an accelerated model to oxidize the oils. Five inducers (temperature, Fe2+, 2,2′‐azobis(2‐amidinopropane) dihydrochloride, ascorbyl palmitate and the hydrophobic 2,2′‐azobis‐2,4‐dimethylvaleronitrile (AMVN)) were combined in a factorial design to accelerate the oxidation of three oils (flaxseed, echium and fish) containing different sources of n3 FA. RESULTS: Lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) concentrations estimated using the regression models did not differ from the observed values. AMVN + Fe2+ increased TBARS in all samples. CONCLUSION: The values for the oxidative markers obtained 48 h after induction were similar to those obtained when the oils were heated at 60 ° C for 15 days. Of a number of volatile compounds formed from the oxidation of different n3 FA sources, (E,E)‐2,4‐heptadienal, (E,E)‐2,4‐decadienal, decanal, undecanal and (E)‐2‐undecenal were identified in all samples and could be used as more specific oxidative markers. Using the accelerated model, rutin improved the oxidative stability of fish oil, probably due to the presence of a catechol group in its chemical structure. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work was developed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial, antileishmanial and cytotoxic activities of Echium arenarium (Guss) extracts, and to analyze their phytochemical composition. The highest content of total phenolic compounds was obtained in the ethyl acetate extract which showed the best DPPH scavenging activity and β-carotene bleaching inhibition (IC 50  = 1.1 and 9.94 μg/mL respectively). It also exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria ( L. monocytogenes ; S. aureus ; MRSA, E. faecalis and B. cereus ) and antileishmanial activity against L. major (IC 50  = 13.91 ± 0.43 μg/mL) and L. infantum (IC 50  = 9.91 ± 0.15 μg/mL). Moreover, the active extract exhibited potent antiamastigote activity (IC50 = 22.48 ± 0.14 μg/mL and 18.59 ± 0.09 μg/mL against L. major and L. infantum respectively). Cytotoxicity studies revealed low toxicity against Raw 264.7 macrophage cell line (IC50 = 145.80 ± 0.84 μg/mL, SI < 10). Luteolin-7-O-glucoside was identified as the major flavonoid component by RP-HPLC analysis. In conclusion, Echium arenarium (Guss) extract was characterized by a wide range of biological activities and could be used as a potential natural anti-infectious drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implementing ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA), naturally found in echium oil (EO), can highly improve the nutritional value of fortified foods. However, PUFA is prone to oxidation. In this study, the role of nanostructured lipid carriers incorporated into whey protein isolate (WPI)-stabilized EO droplets in oil-in-water emulsions was analyzed. Lipid carriers such as lauric (LA), palmitic (PA), and stearic (SA) acids were used. The results reveal that lipid carriers, especially LA, improve the physical stability of these droplets by decreasing their particle size by decreasing the number of surface pores; shown by SEM images and XRD data. Rheological data further show that the emulsions incorporated with LA had higher viscosity and there was also a crossover shift to lower strains in the G′-G″ curve of the emulsions incorporating LA. TBARS assay indicated that LA was more effective in protecting EO against oxidation than both palmitic and stearic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The Madeiran endemic Echium nervosum W.T. Aiton is illustrated based on plants grown at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Its ecology; phylogenetic and taxonomic placement, and conservation status are discussed. Twenty‐nine species of Echium are endemic to the Macaronesian Islands and they represent one of the most spectacular and best known examples of adaptive radiation on oceanic islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Dried roots of Echium species are used in Turkey for the treatment of wounds, inflammation, and depression. In this study, an reversedphase- liquid chromatographic method with isocratic elution was developed to determine shikonin derivatives in Echium species. Materials and Methods: The chromatographic separation and quantification was performed on a C18 column (ACE, 150 mm ' 4.6 mm, 5 μm), with a mobile phase of acetonitrile and 0.1 M acetic acid (70: 30, v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min, and ultraviolet detection at 520 nm. Results: Linear behavior was observed over the investigated concentration range (2-500 ppm) for all analytes, with a correlation coefficient of >0.998. The proposed method was found to be specific and precise for the quantification of shikonin derivatives in Echium species. Conclusion: The highest content of shikonin derivatives was observed in E. italicum L. compared with the other species studied herein, advocating the use of E. italicum L. roots as an alternate source for shikonin derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicine has proven to be effective in the treatment of a variety of disorders and has aided in the development of new medications. The genus Echium belongs to Boraginaceae family1, have been used for different purposes in Turkish Folk Medicine2, however some species have not been examined in detail in terms of enzyme inhibition activity. We aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity, inhibiting effect on digestive enzymes linked to diabetes and Alzheimer disease related acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase, skin whitening effect related enzyme tyrosinase of ethanol extracts obtained from four different Echium species namely E. italicum, E. vulgare, E.angustifolium and E. parviflorum. The antioxidant effect of extracts was investigated with DPPH• (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil), ABTS•+ (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical scavenging and iron chelating tests. Total phenol and flavonoid contents were determined with Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric methodrespectively. The anticholinesterse activity related with Alzheimer's disease wastested with Ellman's methods on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). In a result the highest total phenolic (43.58±3.56mgGAE/g extract) was found in E. italicum herba extract and total flavonoid content (105.59±2.93 mgQE/g extract) was found in E. parviflorum aerial part extract. The highest AChE and BChE inhibitory activity were found in aerial part extract of E. italicum (IC50=46.39±0.35 µg/mL and IC50=11.59±0.52 µg/mL). However, the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity was found in E. parviflorum aerial part extract (IC50=1.83±1.06 mg/mL). This is the first report that these biological activities investigated in four Echium species and theses are thought that these studies could contribute to the advanced pharmacological activity studies and chemotaxonomy of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating oilseed crops into rotations can improve soil health benefits, nutrient retention, and pollinator provisions. Field margins represent areas where incorporation of oilseeds is feasible. However in the northern Great Plains, field margins can oftentimes be areas of saline soil, which can impact seed germination and seedling establishment. Therefore, a replicated growth chamber experiment was used to determine winter camelina ( Camelina sativa ), winter pennycress ( Thlaspi arvense L.), echium ( Echium plantogineum ), cuphea ( Cuphea viscosissima X Cuphea lanceolata ), and calendula ( Calendula officinalis ) tolerance to germinating under saline conditions. A total of 50 seeds, replicated 3 times were germinated in petri dishes saturated with NaCl, CaCl, and Na 2 SO 4 solution at 0, 0.2, 2, 4, 8, and 16 dS m −1 in an incubator at constant 20 °C. Fully germinated seeds were counted and removed daily for 7 days, followed by every other day for a total of 21 days. Final germination percent, corrected germination rate index, and germination velocity were calculated. Germination percent, corrected germination rate index and germination velocity were negatively affected by increases in salinity for camelina, pennycress, cuphea, and calendula. Echium germination was not impacted by salt or salinity level. Sodium based salts were more detrimental for camelina, pennycress, and calendula. Camelina and cuphea germination was tolerant to salinity, with average salinity thresholds of 8.0 and 3.1 dS m −1 and a 25% germination decline at 35.3 and 11.0 dS m −1 , respectively. Pennycress and calendula germination was moderately tolerant to salinity with average salinity thresholds of 5.9 and 2.7 dS m −1 and a 25% germination decline at 9.4 and 7.7 dS m −1 , respectively. These oilseeds show potential for adoption in saline soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various studies have shown that bee-collected pollen sold as nutritional supplements may contain toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) and, thus, pose a potential health risk for consumers. The level of contamination may vary according to its geographical and botanical origin. Here, the PA content of pollen produced in Switzerland was studied and 32 commercially available bee-collected pollen supplements produced between 2010 and 2014 were analysed. In addition, at what time period bees collect PA-containing pollen was investigated. Hence, this study looked into the occurrence of PAs in pollen samples collected daily during two-to-three consecutive seasons. Furthermore, the PA spectrum in pollen was compared to the spectrum found in flower heads of PA-plants to unambiguously identify plants responsible for PA contamination of pollen. The PA concentration of commercial and daily collected pollen was determined by target analysis using an HPLC-MS/MS system, allowing the detection of 18 different PAs and PA N-oxides found in the generaEchium,EupatoriumandSenecio, while the comparison of the PA spectrum in pollen and flower heads was performed by LC-HR-MS, allowing the detection of all PA types in a sample, including saturated, non-carcinogenic PAs. Of the commercially available pollen, 31% contained PAs with a mean concentration of 319 ng/g, mainlyEchium- andEupatorium-type PAs, while the PA concentrations were below the limit of quantitation (LOQ) in 69% of the pollen samples. Bees collected pollen containingEchium-type PAs mainly in June and July, while they gathered pollen containingEupatorium-type PAs from mid-July to August.Senecio-type PAs appeared from June to September. Comparison of the PA array in pollen and plants identifiedE. vulgareandE. cannabinumas the main plants responsible for PA contamination of Swiss bee-collected pollen, and to a lesser extent also identified plants belonging to the genusSenecio. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Structured lipids (SLs) were produced from the free fatty acids of Echium oil and tricaprylin by enzymatic acidolysis reactions. Lipozyme® RM IM, immobilized sn-1,3 specific lipase was used in the enzymatic reactions. In order to optimize the incorporation of stearidonic acid (SDA), three factors were chosen [Reaction temperature (50-60 °C), reaction time (6-12 hour) and substrate molar ratio (3-6 mol/mol (total free fatty acids/tricaprylin)] for the application of response surface methodology (RSM) using a central composite circumscribed design (CCC) with five levels. The optimum temperature, time and substrate molar ratio obtained from the models were 60 °C; 6 h, 6 mol/mol, respectively. Furthermore, SLs with 6.2% SDA content at sn-2 position were produced by scaling up the process. SL was obtained with nearly 78-79% of long-chain fatty acids at the sn-2 position. According to the melting profile analysis, the melting peaks of tricaprylin and Echium oil were sharper and narrower while the SL had more broadened peaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echium amoenum (Boraginaceae) is an important remedy used for various illnesses. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of E. amoenum in the J774.1A macrophage cell line. We prepared ethyl acetate, dichloromethane and hexane extracts from E. amoenum flowers and examined their possible cytotoxic effects using MTT assay. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages were treated with the extracts after which we measured nitric oxide (NO) production by Griess method. Inducible NO synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, interleukin (IL)-1ß, and IL-6 gene expressions were examined by real time-PCR. IL-1ß and IL-6 cytokine levels were measured by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The hexane extract with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 39.8 µg/mL most effectively reduced NO production. Real time-PCR analysis indicated reduced levels of iNOS ((0.05 ± 0.006 relative fold change (RFC)) and COX2 (0.06 ± 0.002 RFC) gene expressions with the 100 µg/mL hexane extract (P < 0.001). IL1-ß, TNF-a, and IL-6 gene expression levels decreased at all concentrations of the extract (less than ≈ 0.28 RFC). Treatment of LPS-stimulated cells with 100 µg/mL of the extract reduced IL-1ß secretion to 27.9 ± 0.21 pg/mL and IL-6 to 555 ± 166 pg/mL. In conclusion, E. amoenum hexane extract showed the greatest reduction in macrophage NO secretion compared to other extracts. This extract could modulate the inflammatory mode of the macrophages by causing reductions in iNOS and COX2 enzymes as well as IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-a cytokine levels. The results of this study have shown the anti-inflammatory effects of this plant. Further studies regarding its therapeutic potential in inflammatory disorders are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systematic position and phylogenetic relationships ofEchium orientale, a rare endemic of the mountains of northern Turkey, were elucidated based on morphological, molecular, and karyological evidence. Using nuclear and plastid DNA sequences, we found that this species is not included inEchium, but is rather at least as divergent from it as other related lineages, namely the South AfricanLobostemonandEchiostachys. Pollen characters revealed a strong affinity withOnosma, especially in the non-reticulate ornamentation of the tectum. Fruit morphology is unique in the genera of theEchium‘alliance' (e.g.Echium,Pontechium,Lobostemon, andEchiostachys), because of the large size and the smooth, glossy nutlet surface as in most species ofOnosma. Karyological observations show that this species is diploid with 2n = 12, and differing from bothLobostemonorEchium, where nearly all species have higher numbers (usually 2n = 14 and 2n = 16, respectively). Combined with a ‘megaherb' habit, the weak zygomorphism of the large flowers and a restricted range in the humid mountain forests of the Black Sea region, fruit, pollen and chromosome characters suggest an isolated position forE. orientalein theEchiumalliance. We therefore propose its placement in the monotypicMegacaryon, a genus originally described by Boissier, but largely disregarded by later botanists. An original specimen is designated as generic lectotype. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Context:As an alternative approach, administration of phytotherapeutic agents in management of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), is rapidly growing each day. Different authors have indicated effectiveness ofViola odorataL. (Violaceae),Echium amoenumFisch. & C.A.Mey. (Boraginaceae) andPhysalis alkekengiL. (Solanaceae) in treatment of BPH. However, none have reported the beneficial outcomes of the mixture yet. Objective:This study evaluates the therapeutical effects ofV. odorata,E. amoenumandP. alkekengimixture on symptomatic BPH patients. Materials and methods:Eighty six symptomatic BPH patients with International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of more than 13 and prostate volume of more than 30 cm3were randomly allocated to receive a two-week course of placebo (control group) or 1 mL of mixed hydro-alcoholic solution ofP. alkekengi,E. amoenumandV. odorataextracts (1.5, 1 and 1.5% respectively) (treatment group). Results:IPSS score of incomplete urination (42.3 ± 2.04%), frequency of urination (20.08 ± 1.02%), intermittency (40.78 ± 2.16%), urgency (60.91 ± 3.14%), weak stream (50.58 ± 2.14%), straining (55.67 ± 2.53%) and nocturia (40.14 ± 1.89%) in treatment group were significantly decreased after treatment compare to placebo receiving group. Furthermore, the prostate volume (16.92 ± 0.89%) and extant urine volume (28.12 ± 1.36%) also significantly decreased in treatment group compared to control group. No significant side effects or abnormalities in biochemical tests and urinalysis were observed throughout the study. Discussion and conclusions:Based on results, mentioned mixture is safe and effective in improving life quality of patients suffering from BPH. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Echium oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important because of their benefits to human health; it is, however, unstable. The objective of this work was the coencapsulation of echium oil and quercetin or sinapic acid by microfluidic and ionic gelation techniques. The treatments were analyzed utilizing optical and scanning electron microscopy, encapsulation yield, particle size, thermogravimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, stability under stress conditions, and oil oxidative/phenolic compound stability for 30 days at 40 °C. High encapsulation yield values were obtained (91–97% and 77–90% for the phenolic compounds and oil) and the encapsulated oil was almost seven times more stable than the non-encapsulated oil (0.34 vs 2.42 mg MDA/kg oil for encapsulated and non-encapsulated oil, respectively). Encapsulation was shown to promote oxidative stability, allowing new vehicles for the application of these compounds in food without the use of solvents and high temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey samples (n = 126) from Castilla-La Mancha (Central Spain) were characterized based on their physicochemical properties and a melissopalynological analysis. The latter showed that Echium pollen type was the dominant palynomorph in most samples, representing at least 30% of the pollen in each sample. As anticipated, a relationship was observed between the proportion of this pollen and the properties of the honey. One goal of this study was to set a threshold that defines the percentage of pollen necessary for Viper’s bugloss honey to be considered monofloral or multifloral. This is a mandatory requirement in light of the publication of the European Directive 2014/63/EU establishing the regulations governing the labelling and control of honey to eradicate fraud (BOE n° 147, June 2015). By analyzing how the proportions of Echium pollen type affected the physicochemical and sensory parameters of the honey, the honeys analyzed could be segregated into multifloral and monofloral honeys. The data indicates that the proportion of pollen necessary to discriminate monofloral Viper’s bugloss honey lies at 70%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dried petals of Echium amoenum Fisch. & C.A. Mey. are used for the treatment of many diseases but there are not any reports about the effects of drying conditions on their bioactive compounds. A complete 3² factorial design was used, where the independent variables were drying temperature (40°C-60°C) and air flow rate (0.5-1.0 m/s). The bioactive compounds studied were total phenolic, total flavonoid and anthocyanin contents, and antioxidant activity. The desirability index was used to predict the optimal drying conditions. Both independent variables were statistically significant. The optimal drying conditions were air velocity of 0.86 m/s at 60°C. The results show that the drying conditions play an important role in determining the final quality of the product, content of its bioactive compounds, and minimum drying time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Asthma achronic inflammatory disorder, highly prevalent to all ages, is characterized by cough, dyspnea, chest tightness, wheezing and impairment in physical activities. Bambuterol, long acting ß2-agonist reduces the frequency of recurrent episodes of bronchospasm while Borage and Echium Seed Oil inhibit leukotriene's generation and compete with arachidonic acid, thus decreasing the inflammatory process. Objective:To evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of Bambuterol and Borage plus Echiumseed oil in chronic persistent asthma. Method & Materials: An interventional study, approved by the BASR, University of Karachi. Group-A, Bambuterol once daily, orally at bed time and Group B, Borage seed oil 1.3 gram daily plus Echium seed oil 500 mg twice daily, orally for 90 days. One hundred and twenty registered patients, diagnosed with chronic persistent asthma 60 in each group, completed study period. Results were compared by Spirometry, PEFR, daily symptoms Diary Card and Clinical Questionnaires and were evaluated statistically. Results: Group-A at day-90, percentage change of FEV1 4.7%, FVC 5.9%, PEFR7.1%. Group-B, FEV14.7%, FVC 2.19%, PEFR 4.1%, all results are statistically highly significant. Symptom improvement, reduction in night sleep awakening and decreased need of recue medicines in all groups were highly significant. Drug safety was determined by adverse effects and blood assay of serum levels of Alkaline Phosphatase, SGPT, Cholesterol, HDL and LDL while compliance of drug was checked by follow up at day-30, 60 and 90 and in between daily symptom dairy card. Conclusion: Improvement reported by mean of reduced severity, improved clinical symptoms & quality of life and no serious adverse effects, results are highly significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the response of metallicolous and nonmetallicolous Echium vulgare L. populations to chronic multi-metal (Zn, Pb, Cd) and acute Zn (200, 400 μM) and Pb (30, 60 μM) stress. Three populations of E. vulgare , one from uncontaminated and two from metal-contaminated areas, were studied. Two types of experiments were performed – a short-term hydroponic experiment with acute Zn or Pb stress and a long-term manipulative soil experiment with the use of soils from the sites of origin of the three populations. Growth parameters, such as shoot and root fresh weight and leaf area, as well as organic acid accumulation were determined. Moreover, the concentration of selected secondary metabolites and antioxidant capacity in the three populations exposed to Pb or Zn excess were measured. Both metallicolous populations generally achieved higher biomass compared with the nonmetallicolous population cultivated under metal stress in hydroponics or on metalliferous substrates. Plants exposed to Pb or Zn excess or contaminated soil substrate exhibited higher malate and citrate concentrations compared with the reference (no metal stress) plants. It was observed that Zn or Pb stress increased accumulation of allantoin, chlorogenic and rosmarinic acids, total phenolics, and flavonoids. Moreover, it was shown that Pb sequestration in the roots or Zn translocation to the shoots may play a role in enhanced metal tolerance of metallicolous populations under acute Pb/Zn stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]