Search

Pain and inflammation contribute immeasurably to reduced quality of life, yet modern analgesic and anti-inflammatory therapeutics can cause dependence and side effects. Here, we screened 1444 plant extracts, prepared primarily from native species in California and the United States Virgin Islands, against two voltage-gated K+ channels - T-cell expressed Kv1.3 and nociceptive-neuron expressed Kv7.2/7.3. A subset of extracts both inhibits Kv1.3 and activates Kv7.2/7.3 at hyperpolarized potentials, effects predicted to be anti-inflammatory and analgesic, respectively. Among the top dual hits are witch hazel and fireweed; polymodal modulation of multiple K+ channel types by hydrolysable tannins contributes to their dual anti-inflammatory, analgesic actions. In silico docking and mutagenesis data suggest pore-proximal extracellular linker sequence divergence underlies opposite effects of hydrolysable tannins on different Kv1 isoforms. The findings provide molecular insights into the enduring, widespread medicinal use of witch hazel and fireweed and demonstrate a screening strategy for discovering dual anti-inflammatory, analgesic small molecules.

Herbal medicines are used by patients with IBD despite limited evidence. We present a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating treatment with herbal medicines in active ulcerative colitis (UC). A search query designed by a library informationist was used to identify potential articles for inclusion. Articles were screened and data were extracted by at least two investigators. Outcomes of interest included clinical response, clinical remission, endoscopic response, endoscopic remission, and safety. We identified 28 RCTs for 18 herbs. In pooled analyses, when compared with placebo, clinical response rates were significantly higher for Indigo naturalis (IN) (RR 3.70, 95% CI 1.97-6.95), but not for Curcuma longa (CL) (RR 1.60, 95% CI 0.99-2.58) or Andrographis paniculata (AP) (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.71-1.26). There was a significantly higher rate of clinical remission for CL (RR 2.58, 95% CI 1.18-5.63), but not for AP (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.86-2.01). Higher rates of endoscopic response (RR 1.56, 95% CI 1.08-2.26) and remission (RR 19.37, 95% CI 2.71-138.42) were significant for CL. CL has evidence supporting its use as an adjuvant therapy in active UC. Research with larger scale and well-designed RCTs, manufacturing regulations, and education are needed.

Sesquiterpene lactones (STLs) are a prominent group of plant secondary metabolites predominantly found in the Asteraceae family and have multiple ecological roles and medicinal applications. This review describes the evolutionary and ecological significance of STLs, highlighting their roles in plant defence mechanisms against herbivory and as phytotoxins, alongside their function as environmental signalling molecules. We also cover the substantial role of STLs in medicine and their mode of action in health and disease. We discuss the biosynthetic pathways and the various modifications that make STLs one of the most diverse groups of metabolites. Finally, we discuss methods for identifying and predicting STL biosynthesis pathways. This article is part of the theme issue 'The evolution of plant metabolism'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papaya is one of the most consumed fruits around the world, which possesses low energy and is very suitable for those trying to reduce weight. Papaya is packed with a bunch of vitamins, minerals, as well as phenolic compounds. Phytochemicals have beneficial effects on the human body, including anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-dengue activities. Numerous studies have estimated nutritional and medicinal properties. The study of the bioaccessibility of papaya chemicals is important for both the food and medicine industries. This review summarizes the nutritional value and phytochemical content of different parts of papaya. Influencing factors like pre- and post-harvest on phytochemical content also have been reviewed. Further, the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of phytochemicals as well as the medicinal properties, based on the in vitro and in vivo studies are deeply reviewed. Finally, the research progress, gaps and interesting future aspects of papaya phytochemicals have been discussed. These phytochemical compounds are influenced by numerous factors, such as pre- and post-harvest, as well as extraction conditions. Many factors may affect the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of these phytochemicals, but there is limited information. Therefore, further studies like in vitro and in vivo experiments should be conducted to authenticate the efficiency of the papaya plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: How to reduce the high incidence rate and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) effectively is the focus of current research. Endoscopic treatment of early-stage CRC and colorectal adenomas (CAC) has a high success rate, but although several treatments are available for advanced CRC, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, the 5-year survival rate remains low. In view of the high incidence rate and mortality of CRC, early rational drug prevention for high-risk groups and exploration of alternative treatment modalities are particularly warranted. Summary: Gut microbiota is the target of and interacts with probiotics, prebiotics, aspirin, metformin, and various Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) for the prevention of CRC. In addition, the anti-cancer mechanisms of probiotics differ widely among bacterial strains, and both bacterial strains and their derivatives and metabolites have been found to have anti-cancer effects. Gut microbiota plays a significant role in early drug prevention of CRC and treatment of CRC in its middle and late stages, targeting gut microbiota may be a new strategy for colorectal cancer treatment. Key message: This review covers current progress in the role of gut microbiota and drugs in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The use of medical marijuana was legalized in Mexico in 2017. In June 2021, the Supreme Court authorized personal marijuana use, as well as its planting, cultivation, harvest, preparation, possession, and transportation for recreational purposes by persons aged 18 and over, decriminalizing its use. Objectives. 1) To determine which variables are associated with favorable opinions regarding medical use, recreational use, and the legalization of marijuana use; and 2) to determine whether there are differences in the variables that best predict support for medicinal and recreational use and legalization of marijuana among marijuana users and non-users. Method. Data are drawn from the 2016 National Survey on Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Use, administered to a nationally representative sample of Mexican households. A validated questionnaire was used with questions on demographic characteristics, marijuana use (including the number of times it has been used), respondents' opinions regarding the legalization of marijuana and recreational use, whether they have been offered marijuana without having to pay for it, perception of risk associated with marijuana use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Results. Being male and having a low perception of the risks of marijuana use are the variables mostly strongly associated with approving medical and recreational use and its legalization, irrespective of whether respondents used it. Other variables associated with approval are age, educational attainment, and income level. Discussion and Conclusion. Legislators and policy makers should consider the full range of public opinion concerning the use and legalization of marijuana and incorporate it into their proposals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Turkey tail mushroom has a history of use in traditional medicine in Asian and Europe. • Trametes versicolor contains phenols, polysaccharides, terpenoids, and other compounds with anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiaging, hepatoprotective, and anti-diabetic properties. • Summarizes the economic, nutritional and health significance, highlighting untapped medicinal potential of Turkey tail mushroom. • Polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharopeptide krestin (PSK) derived from trametes have been extensively researched on their effect on cancer cells. Medicinal mushroom are known for their therapeutic capabilities and one such notable example is the Turkey tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor). This fascinating medicinal fungus, belonging to the genus Trametes that has been in used for centuries in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia. Turkey tail mushroom look-alikes due to the existence of diversity and variation in species.It is crucial to observe key morphological features for proper identification of fruiting bodies. The presence of phenols, polysaccharides, terpenoids, and other compounds in Turkey tail enrich its biological activities as a potent anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiaging, hepatoprotective, and anti-diabeticpropeties. Recent studies have explored the various metabolic activities of T. versicolor, highlighting important polysaccharides such as Polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and Polysaccharopeptide Krestin (PSK), which have been thoroughly researched for their effects on cancer cells. This review attempts to disclose the importance of Turkey tail mushrooms and their untapped medicinal potential to further benefit immunology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out at the Trans-Himalayan Herbal Garden, located at the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa-Leh, from 2021 to 2023. An assessment of pollen viability was conducted using seven significant medicinal and aromatic plants from the Ladakh region. Analysis of pollen vitality was conducted using the acetocarmine staining technique. The pollen viability of Inula racemosa Hook. f. ranged from 91.08 ± 1.39 % to 82.44 ± 1.48 % in Ephedra gerardiana Wall. Among the genus Inula racemosa, the highest percentage (91.08%) of viable pollens indicates a normal meiosis, whereas Ephedra gerardiana recorded the lowest percentage. Among the chosen species, Inula racemosa, Verbascumthapsus, Hyoscyamus niger, and Dracocephalum heterophyllum stand out for their exceptional pollen viability. These species can be effectively utilized for conservation purposes and as male parents in hybridization. The result for the average pollen density varied from 1533.07 ± 106.32 in Capparis spinosa L. to 276.00 ± 10.20 in Dracocephalum heterophyllum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background How to reduce the high incidence rate and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) effectively is the focus of current research. Endoscopic treatment of early-stage CRC and colorectal adenomas (CAC) has a high success rate, but although several treatments are available for advanced CRC, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, the 5-year survival rate remains low. In view of the high incidence rate and mortality of CRC, early rational drug prevention for high-risk groups and exploration of alternative treatment modalities are particularly warranted. Summary Gut microbiota is the target of and interacts with probiotics, prebiotics, aspirin, metformin, and various Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) for the prevention of CRC. In addition, the anti-cancer mechanisms of probiotics differ widely among bacterial strains, and both bacterial strains and their derivatives and metabolites have been found to have anti-cancer effects. Gut microbiota plays a significant role in early drug prevention of CRC and treatment of CRC in its middle and late stages, targeting gut microbiota may be a new strategy for colorectal cancer treatment.

A number of therapeutic drugs have been developed from functional chemicals found in plants. Knowledge of plants used for medicinal purposes has historically been transmitted by word of mouth or through literature. The aim of the present study is to provide a systemic platform for the development of lead compounds against breast cancer based on a traditional medical text. To verify our systematic approach, integrating processes consisted of text mining of traditional medical texts, 3-D virtual docking screening, and in vitro and in vivo experimental validations were demonstrated. Our text analysis system identified rutin as a specific phytochemical traditionally used for cancer treatment. 3-D virtual screening predicted that rutin could block EGFR signaling. Thus, we validated significant anticancer effects of rutin against breast cancer cells through blockade of EGFR signaling pathway in vitro. We also demonstrated in vivo anti-cancer effects of rutin using the breast cancer recurrence in vivo models. In summary, our innovative approach might be proper for discovering new phytochemical lead compounds designing for blockade of malignant neoplasm including breast cancer. [BMB Reports 2023; 56(11): 594-599].

The evergreen plant rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) has been employed medicinally for centuries as a memory aid, analgesic, spasmolytic, vasorelaxant and antihypertensive, with recent preclinical and clinical evidence rationalizing some applications. Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels in the KCNQ (Kv7) subfamily are highly influential in the nervous system, muscle and epithelia. KCNQ4 and KCNQ5 regulate vascular smooth muscle excitability and contractility and are implicated as antihypertensive drug targets. Here, we found that rosemary extract potentiates homomeric and heteromeric KCNQ4 and KCNQ5 activity, resulting in membrane hyperpolarization. Two rosemary diterpenes, carnosol and carnosic acid, underlie the effects and, like rosemary, are efficacious KCNQ-dependent vasorelaxants, quantified by myography in rat mesenteric arteries. Sex- and estrous cycle stage-dependence of the vasorelaxation matches sex- and estrous cycle stage-dependent KCNQ expression. The results uncover a molecular mechanism underlying rosemary vasorelaxant effects and identify new chemical spaces for KCNQ-dependent vasorelaxants.

As it might be known, organic products are increasingly in demand. Indeed, one of the most environmentally and friendly innovations are the bio stimulants. Their effect is exposed on the flowering, the plant growth, the fruits and the crop productivity and nutrient use efficiency. In this study we evaluate the effect of two aqueous plant extracts Ocimum basilicum and Eucalyptus globulus on the growth and the performances of tomato. The methodology consist on two parts of evaluation: the effect on the plant performances and the quality of the fruit. At the same time the composition of the two plant extracts have been necessary to evaluate the compound responsible on the effects. The results showed that both aqueous extracts had a positive effect on the plant performances. Indeed, Ocimum basilicum-treated seedling reached 1.35 ± 0.05 cm at the high 50% concentration. Compared with 1.02 ± 0.16 cm for the negative control. Same for Eucalyptus globulus that reached 1.35 ± 0.25 cm at the same dose. For the circumference of the seedlings, the same extract reached 8 ± 0.93cm at the highest concentration. The number of flowers per fruits had a positive effect for two plant extracts. For the quality of the fruit, a positive effect had been evaluated on the fruit weight that reached 121 ± 24 g with 8% of Ocimum basilicum and 135 ± 15 g with Eucalyptus globulus. Same for circumference; PH; the titrable acidity and the total Carbohydrate. At the same time, it had a negative effect on the total juice that has decreased by the aggregate of the concentrations. It had a neutral effect on the coloration of the fruit that didn't change by the application of the plants extracts. The phytochemical screening of the plant extracts showed that both Ocimum basilicum and Eucalyptus globulus are high in polyphenols that might be the reason of these positive impacts. This study showed that it is possible to use the plant extracts of Ocimum basilicum and Eucalyptus globulus as biostimulant to have a better production and productivity of tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout history, medicinal plants have been the primary source for preventing and treating infectious diseases and other health issues. The flowering plant Eucalyptus camaldulensis, also called river red gum, is a member of the Myrtaceae family and has numerous traditional uses. The objectives of the present study were to identify the essential oil components of Eucalyptus camaldulensis using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), and to determine the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antibacterial activities of ethanol, aqueous, and essential oil extracts from E. camaldulensis leaves. Addtionally, the essential oil constituents that were identified underwent an in silico analysis. The efficacy of various extracts in combat pathogens and free radicals was assessed through the utilization of the 1,1-Diphenyl-2-Picryl Hydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), α-glucosidase inhibition, and disk diffusion methods. In terms of radical scavenging, reducing power, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, the essential oil showed strong antioxidant activity at 84.01 %, 20.1 mmol/g, and 78.2 %, respectively. The essential oil showed a potent antimicrobial action against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with 12 and 14 mm inhibitions, respectively, which were higher than ampicillin's 9 and 6 mm inhibitions, respectively. The GCMS analysis showed that the following chemicals were the most common: cis-11-hexadecenal (10.2%), trans-13-octadecenoic acid (9.5%), and 6-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester, (Z)-(8.8%). The α-glucosidase enzyme was targeted in a docking study to investigate the antidiabetic properties of the 42 phytochemicals found in the essential oil extract. The compound, namely 5.alpha.-Androstan-16-one, showed the highest binding affinities of −8.6 Kcal/mol during the docking screening of the 42 identified phytochemicals against α-glucosidase. These two compounds show potential as competitive α-glucosidase inhibitors. E. camaldulensis will be a particularly useful source to improve health and fight communicable and non-communicable diseases. Nonetheless, human evaluations of E. camaldulensis safety and effectiveness are necessary, and more well-planned clinical trials are needed to confirm our in vitro and in silico findings.

Background: Cannabis use in young adulthood has been associated with exposure to traumatic events and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Coping motives for cannabis use represent one mechanism linking PTSD with cannabis problems, yet some individuals with PTSD consider their cannabis use to be medicinal in nature. While a medicinal orientation to cannabis overlaps conceptually with coping motives, it could be associated with unique cannabis outcomes. Objectives: This study examined trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation as mediators of the association between PTSD symptoms and cannabis outcomes in young adults. Method: Data came from an online survey of 212 university students (M age = 19.41; 70.3% Women; 43.4% White) who used cannabis in the past month and endorsed a traumatic life event. Path analyses examined associations of PTSD symptoms with past month cannabis frequency and problems through medicinal cannabis orientation (i.e., number of mental health symptoms that cannabis is used to manage) and trauma-related coping motives. Results: PTSD symptoms were associated with trauma-related coping motives but not with medicinal cannabis orientation. Both trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation were uniquely associated with greater cannabis use frequency, but only trauma-related coping motives were associated with greater cannabis problems. There were significant indirect relationships from PTSD symptoms to cannabis use frequency and problems through trauma-related coping motives but not through medicinal cannabis orientation. Conclusions: Results support unique contributions of trauma-related coping motives and medicinal cannabis orientation to cannabis outcomes and suggest that trauma-related coping motives are specifically implicated in the link between PTSD and cannabis problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms have been an integral part of diet and medicinal practices since ancient times. In ancient Chinese culture, they were valued for both their nutritional properties and medicinal benefits. The first book on remedies belonging to the Chinese civilization mentions the therapeutic effects of various species of mushrooms. In the last three decades, researchers from all over the world, especially from countries such as Japan, China, Korea, the USA and Canada, have conducted numerous studies that have confirmed the beneficial effects of mushrooms on human health. These studies have highlighted their immunological, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory properties. The discovery of penicillin in 1928, derived from the mold Penicillium notatum (a lower fungus), was a watershed moment in medical history, revolutionizing the treatment of bacterial infections and saving millions of lives. This discovery also opened doors for the synthesis of other exceptional drugs. Over the past three decades, interest in medicinal mushrooms and their therapeutic properties has grown significantly. These mushrooms have been studied for their potential in treating immunological conditions and cancer. Thus, medicinal mushrooms have become the subject of intensive research in the field of complementary medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms can be considered as an ecological bioconversion tools to recycle agricultural and agro-industrial wastes. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the biodegradability potentials of Pleurotus ostreatus (jacq) P. Kumm cultivated on solid wastes supplemented with medicinal plant leaves using standard chemical and biological methods. The yield and biological efficiency of P. ostreatus revealed that oil palm fibre supplemented with M. oleifera had highest (124) and (82.66 %) while P. ostreatus cultivated on rags had least (66) and (44.00 %). Degradation of lignin had highest (67.77 %) at (spawn run) in P. ostreatus cultivated on rags, while cellulose and hemicellulose had highest (28.58 % and 33.01%) in P. ostreatus cultivated on plantain peels supplemented with M. oleifera and pampers supplemented with C. citratus respectively. Percent carbon content of rags had highest (43.34 %, 39.12 %, 35.76 % and 27.29 %) at first day, spawn run, fructification and spent compost (at harvest) respectively. The nitrogen content increases as the growth phase progresses, plantain peels supplemented with M. oliefera had highest (2.41 %, 2.83 %, 2.95 % and 3.01 %) and least of (0.21 %, 0.40 %, 0.73 % and 1.21 %) occurred on pampers supplemented with M. oliefera at first day, spawn run, fructification and spent compost (at harvest) respectively. Cultivation of P. ostreatus on solid wastes supplemented with medicinal plant leaves can be a good means of waste management and production of mushroom rich in nutraceutical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean diet is mostly based on high intakes of olive oil, vegetables, legumes, and fruits, with limited amounts of red meat and sweets, and is related to lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, mainly due to the health benefits of antioxidants of wild greens, fruits, and vegetables. Petromarula pinnata (L.) A. DC. is a unique (monotypic) and threatened local endemic wild edible green of Crete which is consumed raw in salads or cooked as an ingredient of the Mediterranean (Cretan) diet. In this study, we aimed to examine the nutritional value of P. pinnata with reference to wild-growing material; moreover, we investigated its chemical composition with 1H NMR spectra and its in vitro total phenolics and flavonoids (TPC, TF assays), and we evaluated the antioxidant (TAC, DPPH, and inhibition of lipid peroxidation), antimicrobial (MIC), and anti-inflammatory (inhibition of soybean lipoxygenase) in vitro activity during two different developmental stages (winter and summer collections), all referring to ex situ cultivated material (air-dried or frozen in liquid nitrogen). Our results showed that P. pinnata has good nutritional value, being rich in terpenoids and poor in phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Furthermore, the extracts showed high antioxidant activity for TAC and DPPH and some of the extracts had higher antioxidant activities than the standard compounds. The summer plant materials had higher antioxidant activity than the winter ones. The methanol/water extracts were the strongest inhibitors of the lipid peroxidation, and the methanol extracts were not found to be active. None of the extracts inhibited the soybean lipoxygenase, and thus they were devoid of anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, the extracts showed a moderate to strong bacterial inhibition. These findings consolidate that P. pinnata has a novel nutraceutical interest with high nutritional value and high antioxidant activity combined with bactericidal effect, thus updating the evaluation of its exploitation potential in the medicinal sector from below average (37%) to high (67%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants are a core part of cultural identity, as part of a diet, decorations, ceremonies, or as medicinal agents. Empirical knowledge regarding plants and their healing potential has existed worldwide for centuries. With the advance of science and technology, not only is the refinement of such sources or isolation of specific compounds possible, but these compounds can also be characterized based on their natural occurrence. Besides their importance for plant metabolism and structure, polysaccharides have been demonstrated to have substantial positive human health impacts on inflammation, metabolism, oxidative stress, and others. As an inherent part of plant cell walls, many polysaccharides from medicinal herbs, such as fructans, glucans, and pectins, have been extracted and analyzed for their structure and function. However, a review summarizing a significant portion of these studies was still unavailable. This review helps to fill the knowledge gap between polysaccharide bioactivity, their structure, and their plant matrix sources, focusing on historical medicinal usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The chemical classification of Cannabis is typically confined to the cannabinoid content, whilst Cannabis encompasses diverse chemical classes that vary in abundance among all its varieties. Hence, neglecting other chemical classes within Cannabis strains results in a restricted and biased comprehension of elements that may contribute to chemical intricacy and the resultant medicinal qualities of the plant. Objectives: Thus, herein, we report a computational metabolomics study to elucidate the Cannabis metabolic map beyond the cannabinoids. Methods: Mass spectrometry-based computational tools were used to mine and evaluate the methanolic leaf and flower extracts of two Cannabis cultivars: Amnesia haze (AMNH) and Royal dutch cheese (RDC). Results: The results revealed the presence of different chemical compound classes including cannabinoids, but extending it to flavonoids and phospholipids at varying distributions across the cultivar plant tissues, where the phenylpropnoid superclass was more abundant in the leaves than in the flowers. Therefore, the two cultivars were differentiated based on the overall chemical content of their plant tissues where AMNH was observed to be more dominant in the flavonoid content while RDC was more dominant in the lipid-like molecules. Additionally, in silico molecular docking studies in combination with biological assay studies indicated the potentially differing anti-cancer properties of the two cultivars resulting from the elucidated chemical profiles. Conclusion: These findings highlight distinctive chemical profiles beyond cannabinoids in Cannabis strains. This novel mapping of the metabolomic landscape of Cannabis provides actionable insights into plant biochemistry and justifies selecting certain varieties for medicinal use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels in the KCNQ subfamily serve essential roles in the nervous system, heart, muscle and epithelia. Different heteromeric KCNQ complexes likely serve distinct functions in the brain but heteromer subtype-specific small molecules for research or therapy are lacking. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is an evergreen plant used medicinally for millennia for neurological and other disorders. Here, we report that rosemary extract is a highly efficacious opener of heteromeric KCNQ3/5 channels, with weak effects on KCNQ2/3. Using functional screening we find that carnosic acid, a phenolic diterpene from rosemary, is a potent, highly efficacious, PIP2 depletion-resistant KCNQ3 opener with lesser effects on KCNQ5 and none on KCNQ1 or KCNQ2. Carnosic acid is also highly selective for KCNQ3/5 over KCNQ2/3 heteromers. Medicinal chemistry, in silico docking, and mutagenesis reveal that carboxylate-guanidinium ionic bonding with an S4-5 linker arginine underlies the KCNQ3 opening proficiency of carnosic acid, the effects of which on KCNQ3/5 suggest unique therapeutic potential and a molecular basis for ancient neurotherapeutic use of rosemary.

Taking medicinal plants during pregnancy may be associated with geographical, socioeconomic, cultural, and individual factors. The present study was conducted to evaluate the frequency of medicinal plant usage and its influencing factors among pregnant mothers living in Tehran, Iran. A cross-sectional study was conducted (Tehran, Iran; 2019-2020). All pregnant women who attended the prenatal clinic were invited. A written consent was obtained from all subjects before enrolment. Data regarding medicinal plant consumption, the reasons for usage, the cause of preference, the source of advice, and the preparation route were gathered through an interview and the completion of a questionnaire. The recorded data were analyzed to assess the prevalence, indications, and factors influencing medicinal plant usage during pregnancy. Of 326 pregnant women, 105 (32.2%) used at least one, and 221 (67.8%) used no medicinal plant. The most consumed medicinal plant was ginger, followed by peppermint, thyme, frankincense, chicory, and saffron. The main reasons for usage were digestive disease and cold symptoms. The place of receiving prenatal care was the only significant factor affecting herbal medicine consumption (p=0.01). More analyses showed a relatively significant correlation between the participant’s age and medicinal plants usage (p=0.05). The results also showed that belief in low adverse effects and high effectiveness of medicinal plants were the reasons for preference of herbal medicine usage. Furthermore, 37 subjects (35.0%) informed by their family or friends, and 15 (14.3%) consumed medicinal plants on their data. Plants were mainly provided by herbal stores. The results showed a relatively frequent use of medicinal plants. The plants were mostly recommended by families and friends. Future studies with larger sample sizes are suggested to determine possible teratogenicity and safe doses.

Abstract Background Syzygium aromaticum has been used for over a century because it has biological qualities for several health-related problems, and the crude essential oils are known to contain several components that could be responsible for synergistic or antagonistic potentials in relation to their biological uses. The study was designed to compare the biological activities of the crude essential oil from the bud of Syzygium aromaticum and fractions obtained from column chromatography. Materials and methods The essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation, and two prominent fractions, C1 and C2, were obtained from the column chromatography separation of the crude essential oil. The quantitative phytochemical analysis was done by standard methods, the antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) scavenging assays. The antifungal activities were assessed by the agar diffusion method, while the anti-inflammatory activity was done using a lipoxygenase inhibitory assay. The major component observed in the crude and fractions was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. Results The phytochemical analysis showed that phenolic acid, tannin, saponin, flavonoids, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and terpenoids were present in variable quantities in all of the fractions and crude essential oil. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value for DPPH scavenging activity ranged from 226.1 to 301.2 µg/mL while that of ABTS scavenging activity ranged from 211.0 to 316.0 µg/mL. The lowest value of IC50 for both DPPH and ABTS was observed in fraction C1. The crude essential oil with a minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) value of 8.00 mg/mL was the most efficient against Candida albicans, Aspergillus penicillum, and Aspergillus niger. The anti-inflammatory assay showed C1 to have the lowest value of IC50 for the lipoxygenase assay. The major component observed in the crude essential oil as well as fraction C1 was eugenol, while fraction C2 had β-caryophyllene as the major component. Conclusions The result showed that all fractions as well as the crude essential oil exhibited antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities, and the crude essential oil was synergic only with respect to its antifungal activity, while fraction C1 was more efficient as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent.

Medicinal plants have active elements that can be used for cures or making drug precursors. According to the World Health Organization, 80% of the world's population depends on these plants as traditional treatments to meet their health care needs. Illicium verum Hook. F. (star anise) is an extensively used spice in traditional Chinese cuisine as a flavoring agent or a historical medicine for vomiting, stomachache, flatulence, and rheumatism and is included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Some active components of star anise are essential oil, anethole, trans-anethole, sesquiterpenoids, shikimic acid, lignans, etc., which possess anxiolytic, neuro-protective, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, anti-flu, antidiarrheal, antispasmodic, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-thrombotic, and anti-tumour effects that are discussed in this review article.

Abstract The food and culinary heritage with medicinal uses are a fascinating field that combines history, culture, and health through food. Over the centuries, various cultures have developed knowledge and practices related to the use of specific ingredients and culinary preparations with medicinal properties. In the Pungalá parish in Ecuador, these generational knowledge and traditions form a valuable biocultural heritage that helps us understand the close relationship between food and traditional medicine. Through qualitative and documentary research, interviews and community workshops are conducted to gather information using different techniques. Among the findings regarding the food and culinary heritage of Pungalá are extinct culinary traditions, as well as important culinary techniques and processes that play a role in nutrition and medicine, valuing traditional and ancestral knowledge as part of their culture. The inventory includes 22 plants used in Andean medicine and 38 preparations, including beverages, porridges, stews, soups, and wrapped dishes that become an integral part of everyday routines, dietary habits, and festive traditions. It is concluded that this knowledge constitutes a valuable food and culinary heritage, and its biocultural is based on ancestral knowledge of the healing properties of local plants and foods, contributing to the health and identity of the community. Measures should be taken to preserve and promote this heritage in the face of current challenges.

Curculigo latifolia Dryand. ex W. T. Aiton, from the genus Curculigo, is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat numerous illnesses such as fever, stomach aches, jaundice, wounds, and inflammation. C. latifolia is a perennial herb that is widely found in tropical and subtropical regions, such as Southeast Asia, Southern China, Bangladesh, Australia, and the Andaman Islands. This review collates the reported studies on the different aspects of C. latifolia from its plant description, nutritional value, phytochemistry, chemical composition, and pharmacological properties. This review aims to identify gaps in the literature and provide useful references for future work on this plant. Previous studies have shown that C. latifolia contains high mineral contents of calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are essential components of human health. Moreover, the plant is rich in phytochemicals, which play a prominent role in various pharmacological activities. The most common compounds identified included curculigoside, crassifoside I, nyasicoside, and curculigine. C. latifolia demonstrated high antioxidant activity through its ability to scavenge superoxide anions, 1,1–diphenyl–2–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino–bis(3–ethylbenzthiazoline–6–sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals, reducing ferric ions to ferrous complexes, iron chelation, and β –carotene bleaching. It was also shown that the roots, stems, and leaves of C. latifolia were effective in exerting antimicrobial activity against several microbial strains, including Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtillis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Erwinia sp. , Klebsiella sp., Pseudomonas sp., Candida albicans, Salmonella choleraesuis and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, the root, fruit, leaf, petiole, and rhizome extracts were found to improve glucose uptake and insulin secretion in diabetic rats, suggesting their antidiabetic potential. C. latifolia presents a wide range of medicinal properties that could make it a promising functional food or source of food supplements to prevent nutrition–related or chronic diseases.

The present study emphasizes the importance of documenting ethnomedicinal plants and herbal practices of the local rural communities of Tehsil Hajira (Pakistan). The aim was to document, explore and quantify the traditional ethnomedicinal knowledge. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using various quantitative indices. The results showed that 144 medicinal plant species from 70 families and 128 genera play an important role in herbal preparations. The most common type of preparation was powder (19.0%), followed by paste (16.7%), aqueous extract (15.7%), decoction (14.7%) and juice (11.0%). Fragaria nubicola (0.94) and Viola canescens (0.93) had the highest relative frequency of mention (RFC), while Berberis lycium (1.22) and Fragaria nubicola (1.18) had the highest use value (UV). Geranium wallichianum (85.5), Ligustrum lucidum (83) and Indigofera heterantha (71.5) were the most important species in the study area with the highest relative importance (RI) value. The diseases treated were categorized into 17 classes, with diseases of the digestive system and liver having the highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) value, followed by diseases of the oropharynx and musculoskeletal system. Important plants mentioned for the treatment of various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are Zanthoxylum alatum, Berberis lycium, Mentha longifolia, Punica granatum, Rubus ellipticus and Viola canescens. New applications of rarely documented plants from this area are: Oxalis corniculata paste of the whole plant to treat vitiligo, Carthamus tinctorius flowers to treat chicken pox, Dioscorea deltoidea tuber powder to treat productive cough, Inula cappa root decoction to treat miscarriage, Habenaria digitata tuber juice for the treatment of fever, Viola canescens leaves and flowers for the treatment of sore throat and Achillea millefolium root and leaf juice for the treatment of pneumonia. These plants may contain interesting biochemical compounds and should be subjected to further pharmacological studies to develop new drugs. Traditional medicinal knowledge in the area under study is mainly limited to the elderly, traditional healers and midwives. Therefore, resource conservation strategies and future pharmacological studies are strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant cryobanks play a significant role in modern science and breeding. They contribute to the recovery of lost species, the emergence of new plant varieties, and help preserve and explore the diversity of the plant world. The IPPRAS Cryobank collection is constantly supplemented with new samples, while, at the same time, the stored samples are being monitored. In order to test seed germination, seeds of Allium and Veratrum species were thawed. Rare Allium species seeds, such as A. nutans, A. schoenoprasum, and A. victorialis were stored in liquid nitrogen for 17, 19, and 30 years, respectively. Long-term cryopreservation decreased germination rates for A. nutans from 96.55 to 50.00%, for A. schoenoprasum from 72.00 to 62.75%, and for A. victorialis from 90.00 to 83.05%. Seeds of a rare medicinal species, Veratrum lobelianum, were stored in liquid nitrogen for 18 years; the seed germination rate during this storage period has been significantly decreased from 75.00 to 14.81%. V. nigrum seeds were also collected and frozen in liquid nitrogen for 3 days. Short-term cryopreservation did not result in a statistically significant change in germination rates (from 79.71 to 82.69%). The seeds of an endangered ornamental species, Cypripedium calceolus, were collected and kept frozen for 3 days. After cryopreservation, the seeds were planted on three different media, as follows: ½ MS, MS with 10% coconut milk, and BM1. On ½ MS medium, 24.98% seeds formed protocorms, while on MS medium with 10% coconut milk, this number was 10.02%, and on BM1 medium, it was 15.02%, respectively; however, after 2.5 months, all of the protocorms died. Thus, it appears that the existing protocol for seed cryopreservation of C. calceolus needs further improvement. The size, weight, and free water content (WC) of six previously cryopreserved Stipa species and three Allium species were measured. For all the Allium and Stipa species studied, we found no correlation between seed size, WC, and cryotolerance. We also found no correlation between the life form, which reflects the water requirement of the species, and cryotolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ayuningtias AW, Solichatun, Pangastuti A. 2024. Foliar salicylic acid application to enhance the morphophysiology of Basella alba and Basella alba var. cordifolia under water deficit stress. Nusantara Bioscience 16: 96-103. Global climate change and increasing temperatures are becoming problems in the cultivation of medicinal plants such as Basella alba L. and Basella alba var. cordifolia (Lam.) M.R.Almeida. Foliar salicylic acid on leaves increases growth and productivity in medicinal cultivation. This study aims to determine the exogenous application of salicylic acid to increase the morphophysiology measurement in B. alba and B. alba var. cordifolia under water deficit stress. The study was carried out using a two-factor, completely randomized design consisting of salicylic acid concentration (0, 2, and 6 mM) and water deficit stress (100% (control), 75% field capacity (light stress), 50% wide field capacity (medium stress) and 25% field capacity (heavy stress). The observation results included morphophysiology. The best result on dry weight for B. alba was followed by SA 0mM+Medium stress with 5.45 g; in B. alba var. cordifolia was followed by SA 0mM+ Heavy stress with 3.09 g. Fresh weight for B. alba was followed by SA 4mM+ Heavy stress with 35.95 g, and B. alba var. cordifolia was followed by SA 0mM+ Heavy stress with 35.66 g. The shoot-to-root ratios in B. alba and B. alba var. cordifolia were followed by SA 2mM+Medium stress with 0.93 and 0.99, respectively. Quercetin in B. alba was followed by SA 4mM+ Heavy stress with 2.88% w/w, and B. alba var. cordifolia was followed by SA 6mM+Medium stress with 1.93% w/w. The gallic acid in B. alba and B. alba var. cordifolia was followed by SA 6mM+Medium stress with 10.21% w/w and 9.44% w/w. Prolin in B. alba and B. alba var. cordifolia was followed by SA 6mM+Medium stress with 8.74 and 9.73 µmol/gram wet weight. This study concluded that foliar salicylic acid application enhanced the morphophysiology, including growth, secondary metabolites, and proline accumulation of B. alba and B. alba var. cordifolia under water deficit stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Chile and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Syzygium aromaticum has been used for over a century because it has biological qualities for several health-related problems, and the crude essential oils are known to contain several components that could be responsible for synergistic or antagonistic potentials in relation to their biological uses. The study was designed to compare the biological activities of the crude essential oil from the bud of Syzygium aromaticum and fractions obtained from column chromatography. Materials and methods: The essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation, and two prominent fractions, C1 and C2, were obtained from the column chromatography separation of the crude essential oil. The quantitative phytochemical analysis was done by standard methods, the antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) scavenging assays. The antifungal activities were assessed by the agar diffusion method, while the anti-inflammatory activity was done using a lipoxygenase inhibitory assay. The major component observed in the crude and fractions was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. Results: The phytochemical analysis showed that phenolic acid, tannin, saponin, flavonoids, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and terpenoids were present in variable quantities in all of the fractions and crude essential oil. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value for DPPH scavenging activity ranged from 226.1 to 301.2 µg/mL while that of ABTS scavenging activity ranged from 211.0 to 316.0 µg/mL. The lowest value of IC50 for both DPPH and ABTS was observed in fraction C1. The crude essential oil with a minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) value of 8.00 mg/mL was the most efficient against Candida albicans, Aspergillus penicillum, and Aspergillus niger. The anti-inflammatory assay showed C1 to have the lowest value of IC50 for the lipoxygenase assay. The major component observed in the crude essential oil as well as fraction C1 was eugenol, while fraction C2 had β-caryophyllene as the major component. Conclusions: The result showed that all fractions as well as the crude essential oil exhibited antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities, and the crude essential oil was synergic only with respect to its antifungal activity, while fraction C1 was more efficient as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of the study of reference sites with the medicinal plant Chelidonium majus L. in the Kazakh part of the Kungai Alatau. Descriptions of 5 reference sites with typical communities (floristic composition and structure) of different vegetation belts are given. Kungai Alatau is a peculiar and interesting region of the Northern Tien Shan, located at the junction of three botanical-geographical provinces different in their natural features: Central Tianshan-Zaalai, Kashgar-East Tianshan transitional and Dzungar transitional. The study region is of interest as a transboundary territory with the Republic of Kyrgyzstan with a high degree of botanical diversity. Due to its border physical-geographical position, the formation of its flora was influenced by different large botanical-geographical centers (Northern and Western Tien Shan). The species composition of natural complexes of many parts of the ridge has been preserved in a natural state due to its inaccessibility and represents a reference in floristic respect for the whole Northern Tien Shan. The authors of the work conducted cycles of studies on the study and distribution of C. majus on the territory of the Kazakh part of the Kungai Alatau Ridge. Kungai Alatau, which allowed now to obtain more complete data on the existence of populations of the studied species, the peculiarities of their habitat in different plant communities, the identification of the degree of impact of negative factors on the population and the duration of the consequences of the negative impact. It was found that C. majus mainly grows on mountainous southern slopes of the lower and middle belt, among bushes, along the banks of rivers and along the plumes of slopes of gorges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food and culinary heritage with medicinal uses are a fascinating field that combines history, culture, and health through food. Over the centuries, various cultures have developed knowledge and practices related to the use of specific ingredients and culinary preparations with medicinal properties. In the Pungalá parish in Ecuador, these generational knowledge and traditions form a valuable biocultural heritage that helps us understand the close relationship between food and traditional medicine. Through qualitative and documentary research, interviews and community workshops are conducted to gather information using different techniques. Among the findings regarding the food and culinary heritage of Pungalá are extinct culinary traditions, as well as important culinary techniques and processes that play a role in nutrition and medicine, valuing traditional and ancestral knowledge as part of their culture. The inventory includes 22 plants used in Andean medicine and 38 preparations, including beverages, porridges, stews, soups, and wrapped dishes that become an integral part of everyday routines, dietary habits, and festive traditions. It is concluded that this knowledge constitutes a valuable food and culinary heritage, and its biocultural is based on ancestral knowledge of the healing properties of local plants and foods, contributing to the health and identity of the community. Measures should be taken to preserve and promote this heritage in the face of current challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grasses have originated and evolved even before origin of human beings. The grass species are revealed in the Vedic texts with a specific purpose. From the Vedic age, grasses are upheld to be the most sacred as they have been used for different purposes in various rituals. These grasses are used in various sacraments and also used as medicinal herbs that are detailed in the Veda Sahitas, Brāhmaās, Ārayakas, Upanihads, Epics, Purāas and also in later Sanskrit texts. The darbha grass or the sacrificial grass is used to spread the Yajñavēdi (Yajña altar), to make a seat, used as amulets or charms, for sacred ceremonies and so on. The grasses revealed in the Vedic texts can be classified into wild grasses, cereal and millet crops. Grasses play a major role in the life and development of mankind. The cereal and millet crops revealed in the Vedic texts are still being cultivated by our farmers for the utilization by mankind and cattle on day to day basis as food and fodder, respectively. The grass, iku, sugarcane is used to produce sugar and ethanol. They occupy a significant position in many traditional medicines including Ayurveda. There are several potential grasses that produce grass oil which are used in Indian medical systems. The present article elucidates the descriptions of these grasses, their ritualistic and medicinal significances as revealed in the Vedic texts are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out at the Trans-Himalayan Herbal Garden, located at the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa-Leh, from 2021 to 2023. An assessment of pollen viability was conducted using seven significant medicinal and aromatic plants from the Ladakh region. Analysis of pollen vitality was conducted using the acetocarmine staining technique. The pollen viability of Inula racemosa Hook. f. ranged from 91.08 ± 1.39 % to 82.44 ± 1.48 % in Ephedra gerardiana Wall. Among the genus Inula racemosa, the highest percentage (91.08%) of viable pollens indicates a normal meiosis, whereas Ephedra gerardiana recorded the lowest percentage. Among the chosen species, Inula racemosa, Verbascumthapsus, Hyoscyamus niger, and Dracocephalum heterophyllum stand out for their exceptional pollen viability. These species can be effectively utilized for conservation purposes and as male parents in hybridization. The result for the average pollen density varied from 1533.07 ± 106.32 in Capparis spinosa L. to 276.00 ± 10.20 in Dracocephalum heterophyllum.

As the search for, and development of new drugs continues, drug companies engage in the large-scale pharmacological screening of medicinal plants. This creates the need to elucidate the mechanism of action of medicinal plants found to possess biological activity as a means of deriving their full therapeutic potential. This research was carried out to investigate the mechanism of the antihypertensive action of Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum, and Pterocarpus erinaceus using animal models. The dried 70% ethanolic extracts of the plants were prepared at varying concentrations ranging from 0.4 mg/mL to 50 mg/mL. These extracts were administered at varying doses alone and in the presence of selected antagonists like prazocin in anesthetized cat in-vivo and to rabbit jejunum and spontaneously beating guinea pig right atrium. Adrenaline and atropine were used as control drugs.The effects of these plants extracts were demonstrated on the Finkleman preparation and they were found to induce relaxation of the rabbit jejunum. They also reduced both the rate and force of contraction of spontaneously beating guinea pig's right atrium. The cardiovascular effects of the extracts were investigated on cat blood pressure. The effect of atropine tested in the presence of V. amygdalina and O. gratissimum showed a change in the pattern of induced fall in blood pressure but does block the fall in blood pressure induced by the extracts. While the exact mechanism of the antihypertensive action of these extracts has not been fully determined, the result of this research work proposes that the mechanism could either be blocking calcium channels or have direct activity on lowering blood pressure. It is therefore recommended that further studies be conducted on the extracts to better understand the mechanism of antihypertensive actions of these plants.

Mushrooms can be considered as an ecological bioconversion tools to recycle agricultural and agro-industrial wastes. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the biodegradability potentials of Pleurotus ostreatus (jacq) P. Kumm cultivated on solid wastes supplemented with medicinal plant leaves using standard chemical and biological methods. The yield and biological efficiency of P. ostreatus revealed that oil palm fibre supplemented with M. oleifera had highest (124) and (82.66 %) while P. ostreatus cultivated on rags had least (66) and (44.00 %). Degradation of lignin had highest (67.77 %) at (spawn run) in P. ostreatus cultivated on rags, while cellulose and hemicellulose had highest (28.58 % and 33.01%) in P. ostreatus cultivated on plantain peels supplemented with M. oleifera and pampers supplemented with C. citratus respectively. Percent carbon content of rags had highest (43.34 %, 39.12 %, 35.76 % and 27.29 %) at first day, spawn run, fructification and spent compost (at harvest) respectively. The nitrogen content increases as the growth phase progresses, plantain peels supplemented with M. oliefera had highest (2.41 %, 2.83 %, 2.95 % and 3.01 %) and least of (0.21 %, 0.40 %, 0.73 % and 1.21 %) occurred on pampers supplemented with M. oliefera at first day, spawn run, fructification and spent compost (at harvest) respectively. Cultivation of P. ostreatus on solid wastes supplemented with medicinal plant leaves can be a good means of waste management and production of mushroom rich in nutraceutical properties.

Abstract Products derived from medicinal plants with antimicrobial activity are considered a promising alternative in the treatment of fungal infections. In this perspective, this study proposed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the dichloromethane fraction of Annona crassiflora Mart. against C. albicans strains. Tests were carried out to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Fungicide Concentration (MFC), microbial growth kinetics, fungal cell wall and membrane mechanisms of action, antifungal biofilm activity, and cytotoxic effects on human erythrocytes. The extract presented MIC and MFC values that ranged from 256 µg/mL to 1,024 µg/mL, with fungicidal activity in the microbial growth kinetics assay. The mechanism of action did not occur through damage to the cell wall or via binding to ergosterol in the membrane, though the fraction presents activity against biofilm and is not cytotoxic in human erythrocytes. The dichloromethane fraction of Annona crassiflora Mart. presented antifungal activity and reduced biofilm growth, without toxicity against human erythrocytes; however, further studies are needed to define its mechanism of action.

Alternative methods of producing food sustainably are being considered due to rapid expanding population, increasing food needs, declining agricultural soils fertility, and ongoing drought. To achieve that, we examined the pharmacological, functional, and nutritional characteristics of two cultivars of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), which are distinguished by their ability to tolerate a variety of climates compared to other cereal grains. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant and antidiabetic effects of two seeds cultivars: one cultivated in Morocco and the other grown in India. In addition to having a higher energy value (403.91 Kcal), higher protein (9.13 %) and lipid content (7.11 %), and a lower capacity for self-oxidation than the Indian variety due to its fatty acid composition, the content of phenolic compounds of Moroccan millet is well concentrated in its seeds, making it more powerful as an antioxidant and hypoglycemic plant. The ethanolic extract of Moroccan pearl millet showed the greatest total phenolic content (36.278 mg GAE/g extract), DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 152.286 and 252.480 μg/mL respectively), α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 84.439 μg/mL and 224.103 μg/mL respectively). The evidence gathered in this study indicates that P. glaucum possesses characteristics that qualify it as a food, medicinal, and productive plant.

Malaria is one of the severe infectious diseases that has victimized about half a civilization billion people each year worldwide. The application of long-lasting insecticides is the main strategy to control malaria; however, a surge in antimalarial drug development is also taking a leading role to break off the infections. Although, recurring drug resistance can compromise the efficiency of both conventional and novel antimalarial medicines. The eradication of malaria is significantly contingent on discovering novel potent agents that are low cost and easy to administer. In this context, plant metabolites inhibit malaria infection progression and might potentially be utilized as an alternative treatment for malaria, such as artemisinin. Advances in genetic engineering technology, especially the advent of molecular farming, have made plants more versatile in producing protein drugs (PDs) to treat infectious diseases, including malaria. These recent developments in genetic modifications have enabled the production of native pharmaceutically active compounds and the accumulation of diverse heterologous proteins such as human antibodies, booster vaccines, and many PDs to treat infectious diseases and genetic disorders. This review will discuss the pivotal role of a plant-based production system that expresses natural antimalarial agents or host protein drugs to cure malaria infections. The potential of these natural and induced compounds will support modern healthcare systems in treating malaria infections, especially in developing countries to mitigate human fatalities.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease which affects all aspects of human life. Medical herbs have become increasingly popular as complementary therapeutic measures for patients with diabetes. Thus, the present research aims to explore the consumption of medical herbs in patients with diabetes in Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) countries through a meta-analysis. Methods: The following keywords were searched: medicine, medicinal plants, healing plants, medicinal herbs, use, usage, frequency of use, prevalence, diabetes patients, type 2 diabetes, adults with diabetes, and EMRO countries. The databases searched included Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Results: A total of 3,542 papers were found. After omitting repeated or irrelevant papers, 70 papers were retained. An analysis of the abstract and full text of papers led to the retention of 35 papers. A great variance was found regarding the rate of consuming medical herbs in the papers (16.8-97.7%). The relative frequency of consuming medical herbs was 38% (95% CI: 33-44). Moreover, the most prevalent herbs were fenugreek (19%), cinnamon (18%), black seed (14%), white lupinus (13%), and olive (13%) with a 95% confidence interval. About 70% of patients (95%CI: 62-79) did not inform their physician of their herbal medicine consumption. Conclusion: In light of the present findings, it can be concluded that patients with diabetes use a wide range of medical herbs. Thus, health specialists and physicians need to be aware of the possible synergic or moderating effect of herbal medicine on the therapeutic measures taken for diabetes.

Curculigo latifolia Dryand. ex W. T. Aiton, from the genus Curculigo, is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat numerous illnesses such as fever, stomach aches, jaundice, wounds, and inflammation. C. latifolia is a perennial herb that is widely found in tropical and subtropical regions, such as Southeast Asia, Southern China, Bangladesh, Australia, and the Andaman Islands. This review collates the reported studies on the different aspects of C. latifolia from its plant description, nutritional value, phytochemistry, chemical composition, and pharmacological properties. This review aims to identify gaps in the literature and provide useful references for future work on this plant. Previous studies have shown that C. latifolia contains high mineral contents of calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are essential components of human health. Moreover, the plant is rich in phytochemicals, which play a prominent role in various pharmacological activities. The most common compounds identified included curculigoside, crassifoside I, nyasicoside, and curculigine. C. latifolia demonstrated high antioxidant activity through its ability to scavenge superoxide anions, 1,1–diphenyl–2–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino–bis(3–ethylbenzthiazoline–6–sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals, reducing ferric ions to ferrous complexes, iron chelation, and B-carotene bleaching. It was also shown that the roots, stems, and leaves of C. latifolia were effective in exerting antimicrobial activity against several microbial strains, including Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtillis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Erwinia sp. , Klebsiella sp., Pseudomonas sp., Candida albicans, Salmonella choleraesuis and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, the root, fruit, leaf, petiole, and rhizome extracts were found to improve glucose uptake and insulin secretion in diabetic rats, suggesting their antidiabetic potential. C. latifolia presents a wide range of medicinal properties that could make it a promising functional food or source of food supplements to prevent nutrition–related or chronic diseases.

The ex situ conservation and sustainable exploitation of neglected or underutilized plant species (NUPs) is an urgent and vital endeavor. To this end, we focused on Petromarula pinnata (Campanulaceae), a vulnerable local plant endemic to Crete (Greece) that has been garnering interest for its agro-alimentary, medicinal, and ornamental value. A GIS ecological profile was established herein based on the natural distribution of this species in Crete. This profile contains detailed information on the climatic conditions (minimum, maximum, and mean temperatures; precipitation), as well as information on 19 bioclimatic variables that shape its natural adaptations. This profiling contributed to a better understanding of the species' ecological requirements and facilitated germination trials employing stored seeds from four distinct populations (two from lowlands and two from semi-mountainous areas) at four temperatures (10, 15, 20, and 25 °C) and two light conditions. The results presented here show that both incubation temperature and population of origin, as well as the interaction between these variables, significantly affected seed germination rates. Incubation temperatures of 10 and 15 °C were the most appropriate for the successful germination of this species (>81.25% for both temperatures in three out of four populations), with light conditions having no effect on seed germination (86% in light and 80% in darkness). The establishment of a protocol for the successful germination of P. pinnata seeds opens avenues for further sustainable exploitation of this valuable yet vulnerable NUP as a new Greek native crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potential genotoxic substances in medicines are of rising concern to pharmaceutical and regulatory authorities at detectable levels due to their potential to induce human carcinogenesis. Molecule functional groups may contribute to the genotoxicity of small molecules by converting starting materials and synthetic intermediates into reactive components. It is challenging for the pharmaceutical research and development analytical community to identify these genotoxic chemicals at trace levels without using susceptible and selective analytical methods. The literature currently needs more experimental advice for analyzing some significant contaminants. Analytical methods play a vital role in the pharmaceutical industry for monitoring and controlling impurities in drug products. These methods provide critical information on the final product's quality, purity, and efficacy by identifying unwanted substances such as degradation products, residual solvents, and process contaminants. The significance of analytical methods in pharmaceutical process impurities includes ensuring quality control, regulatory compliance, process optimization, troubleshooting, and batch release. These methods help to ensure that the final product meets the required specifications, complies with regulatory requirements, and provides the safe and effective patient treatment. The study analyses the structural alarms of commonly encountered likely genotoxic contaminants and draught regulations of various regulatory authorities to restrict the number of impurities in medicinal substances and to identify their toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]