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The Brassicaceae genus consists of many economically important mustards of value for food and medicinal purposes, namely Asian mustard (Brassica juncea), ball mustard (Neslia paniculata), black mustard (B. nigra), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), hedge mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Asian hedge mustard (S. orientale), oilseed rape (B. napus), rapeseed (B. rapa), treacle mustard (Erysimum repandum), smooth mustard (S. erysimoides), white ball mustard (Calepina irregularis), white mustard (Sinapis alba), and Canola. Some of these are commercially cultivated as oilseeds to meet the global demand for a healthy plant-derived oil, high in polyunsaturated fats, i.e., B. napus and B. juncea. Other species are foraged from the wild where they grow on roadsides and as a weed of arable land, i.e., E. repandum and S. erysimoides, and harvested for medicinal uses. These plants contain a diverse range of bioactive natural products including sulfur-containing glucosinolates and other potentially valuable compounds, namely omega-3-fatty acids, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, tannins, S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide, and trace-elements. Various parts of these plants and many of the molecules that are produced throughout the plant have been used in traditional medicines and more recently in the mainstream pharmaceutical and food industries. This study relates the uses of mustards in traditional medicines with their bioactive molecules and possible mechanisms of action and provides an overview of the current knowledge of Brassicaceae oilseeds and mustards, their phytochemicals, and their biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the most alarming postharvest fungal pathogens affecting the shelf life of citrus fruits are green (Penicillium digitatum) and blue (Penicillium italicum) molds. This in vitro study was aimed to evaluate the essential oils (EOs) of Cymbopogon flexuosus (CF) and Monarda citriodora (MC) and their principal components against these fungal pathogens. The composition of selected EOs was analyzed using Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID). Citral (83.81%) and thymol (62.51%) were identified as major components and were isolated by column chromatography from CF and MC EO respectively followed by characterization using spectral techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1H-NMR) and Carbon Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (13C-NMR). Among EOs and their major components, thymol displayed promising potential against both Penicillium species with MIC values of 50 and 80 mg L-1 respectively. Molecular docking studies also confirmed the stable binding interaction of both components, particularly thymol with the active sites of target proteins i.e. 14-α-demethylase and chitin synthase of P. digitatum and P. italicum with the docking scores of -5.07, -5.41 kcal/mol and -5.78, -5.23 kcal/mol respectively. Optical microscopy studies revealed hyphal thinning and fragmentation at frequent sites with contraction of cytoplasmic content indicating incipient plasmolysis. The tested principal components, citral and thymol were predicted to exhibit similar mechanism of action to that of synthetic recommended molecules as revealed by molecular docking. Therefore, these findings provide empirical support to explore thymol as a promising eco-friendly antifungal agent for postharvest application in Kinnow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Thesium chinense Turcz. (Named as Bai Rui Cao in Chinese) and its preparations (e.g., Bairui Granules) have been used to treat inflammatory diseases, such as acute mastitis, lobar pneumonia, tonsillitis, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and upper respiratory tract infection. However, the material basis, pharmacological efficiency, and safety have not been illustrated. Methods Anti-inflammatory activity-guided isolation of constituents has been performed using multiple column chromatography, and their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy and ECD calculations. The inhibitory effects on lung inflammation and safety of the crude ethanol extract (CE), Bairui Granules (BG), and the purified active constituents were evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated acute lung inflammation (ALI) mice model or normal mice. Results Seven new compounds (1–7) and fifty-six known compounds (8–63) were isolated from T. chinense, and fifty-four were reported from this plant for the first time. The new flavonoid glycosides 1–2, new fatty acids 4–5, new alkaloid 7 as well as the known constituents including flavonoid aglycones 8–11, lignans 46–54, alkaloids 34 and 45, coumarins 57, phenylpropionic acids 27, and simple aromatic compounds 39, 44 and 58 exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that anti-inflammation of T. chinense was attributed to flavonoids and alkaloids by regulating inflammation-related proteins (e.g., TNF, NF-κB, TGF-β). Furthermore, constituents of T. chinense including kaempferol-3-O-glucorhamnoside (KN, also named as Bairuisu I, 19), astragalin (AG, Bairuisu II, 12), and kaempferol (KF, Bairuisu III, 8), as well as CE and BG could alleviate lung inflammation caused by LPS in mice by preventing neutrophils infiltration and the expression of the genes for pro-inflammatory cytokines NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, and COX-2. After a 28-day subacute toxicity test, BG at doses of 4.875 g/kg and 9.750 g/kg (equivalent to onefold and twofold the clinically recommended dose) and CE at a dose of 11.138 g/kg (equivalent to fourfold the clinical dose of BG) were found to be safe and non-toxic. Conclusions The discovery of sixty-three constituents comprehensively illustrated the material basis of T. chinense. T. chinense and Bairui Granules could alleviate lung inflammation by regulating inflammation-related proteins and no toxicity was observed under the twofold of clinically used doses.

Osteoporosis (OP) represents a substantial public health issue and is associated with increasing rates of morbidity and mortality. It is characterized by reduced bone mineral density, deterioration of bone tissue quality, disruption of the microarchitecture of bones, and compromised bone strength. These changes may be attributed to the following factors: intercellular communication between osteoblasts and osteoclasts; imbalanced bone remodeling; imbalances between osteogenesis and adipogenesis; imbalances in hormonal regulation; angiogenesis; chronic inflammation; oxidative stress; and intestinal microbiota imbalances. Treating a single aspect of the disease is insufficient to address its multifaceted nature. In recent decades, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown great potential in the treatment of OP, and the therapeutic effects of Chinese patent drugs and Chinese medicinal herbs have been scientifically proven. TCMs, which contain multiple components, can target the diverse pathogeneses of OP through a multitargeted approach. Herbs such as XLGB, JTG, GSB, Yinyanghuo, Gusuibu, Buguzhi, and Nvzhenzi are among the TCMs that can be used to treat OP and have demonstrated promising effects in this context. They exert their therapeutic effects by targeting various pathways involved in bone metabolism. These TCMs balance the activity of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells), and they exhibit anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-oxidative, and estrogen-like functions. These multifaceted mechanisms underlie the efficacy of these herbs in the management and treatment of OP. Herein, we examine the efficacy of various Chinese herbs and Chinese patent drugs in treating OP by reviewing previous clinical trials and basic experiments, and we examine the potential mechanism of these therapies to provide evidence regarding the use of TCM for treating OP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thesium chinense Turcz. (Named as Bai Rui Cao in Chinese) and its preparations (e.g., Bairui Granules) have been used to treat inflammatory diseases, such as acute mastitis, lobar pneumonia, tonsillitis, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and upper respiratory tract infection. However, the material basis, pharmacological efficiency, and safety have not been illustrated. Methods: Anti-inflammatory activity-guided isolation of constituents has been performed using multiple column chromatography, and their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy and ECD calculations. The inhibitory effects on lung inflammation and safety of the crude ethanol extract (CE), Bairui Granules (BG), and the purified active constituents were evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated acute lung inflammation (ALI) mice model or normal mice. Results: Seven new compounds (1–7) and fifty-six known compounds (8–63) were isolated from T. chinense, and fifty-four were reported from this plant for the first time. The new flavonoid glycosides 1–2, new fatty acids 4–5, new alkaloid 7 as well as the known constituents including flavonoid aglycones 8–11, lignans 46–54, alkaloids 34 and 45, coumarins 57, phenylpropionic acids 27, and simple aromatic compounds 39, 44 and 58 exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that anti-inflammation of T. chinense was attributed to flavonoids and alkaloids by regulating inflammation-related proteins (e.g., TNF, NF-κB, TGF-β). Furthermore, constituents of T. chinense including kaempferol-3-O-glucorhamnoside (KN, also named as Bairuisu I, 19), astragalin (AG, Bairuisu II, 12), and kaempferol (KF, Bairuisu III, 8), as well as CE and BG could alleviate lung inflammation caused by LPS in mice by preventing neutrophils infiltration and the expression of the genes for pro-inflammatory cytokines NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, and COX-2. After a 28-day subacute toxicity test, BG at doses of 4.875 g/kg and 9.750 g/kg (equivalent to onefold and twofold the clinically recommended dose) and CE at a dose of 11.138 g/kg (equivalent to fourfold the clinical dose of BG) were found to be safe and non-toxic. Conclusions: The discovery of sixty-three constituents comprehensively illustrated the material basis of T. chinense. T. chinense and Bairui Granules could alleviate lung inflammation by regulating inflammation-related proteins and no toxicity was observed under the twofold of clinically used doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenols, as subordinate metabolites of plants, have demonstrated significant antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant action in scientific learn. These compounds exert their effects through various mechanisms, containing interference with microbial cell structures, rule of host immune responses, and neutralization of free radicals. This multifaceted activity positions polyphenols as promising candidates for maintaining human health and treating related diseases. Notably, in the context of escalating antibiotic resistance, the antibacterial properties of polyphenols offer innovative avenues for the development of new therapeutic agents. Additionally, their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects hold substantial potential for treating inflammatory diseases and mitigating the aging process. This review aims to summarize the latest findings on the biological activities of polyphenols, highlighting their mechanisms of action and potential applications in health and disease management. Furthermore, optimizing polyphenol extraction methods aligns with the goals of sustainable and green processing, reducing environmental impact while enhancing food safety and extending shelf life. Employing advanced analytical techniques, such as spectroscopy and chromatography, can ensure the accurate evaluation of polyphenol content and efficacy. These efforts collectively contribute to the ongoing improvement of food processing practices and product quality, promoting a healthier and more sustainable future in the food industry.

Currently, the treatment of various human ailments is based on different therapeutic approaches including traditional and modern medicine systems. Precision nutrition has come into existence as an emerging approach considering the diverse aspects such as age, sex, genetic and epigenetic makeup, apart from the pathophysiological conditions. The continuously and gradually evolving disciplines of genomics about nutrition have elucidated the importance of genetic variations, epigenetic information, and expression of myriads of genes in disease progression apart from the involvement in modulating therapeutic responses. Further, the investigations have presented the considerable role of gut microbiota comprising of commensal and symbionts performing innumerable activities such as release of bioactive molecules, defense against pathogenic microbes, and regulation of immunity. Noteworthy, the characteristics of the microbiome change depending on host attributes, environmental factors, and habitat, in addition to diet, and therefore can be employed as a biomarker to unravel the response to given food. The specific diet and the components thereof can be suggested for supporting the enrichment of the desired microbial community to some extent as an important part of precision nutrition to achieve not only the goal of human health but also of healthy aging.

BACKGROUND: Phenolic modulators have attracted attention for their potential in shaping functional traits in plants. This work investigated the impact of naringenin (Nar) and rosmarinic acid (RA) on the functional properties of Lepidium sativum leaves and roots. Results: Untargeted metabolomics identified a diverse phenolic profile, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, low molecular weight phenolics, lignans, and stilbenes. Cluster, analysis of variance multiblock orthogonal partial least squares (AMOPLS), and orthogonal projection to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) multivariate analyses confirmed tissue-specific modulation of bioactive compounds. The tissue was the hierarchically most influential factor, explaining 27% of observed variability, while the treatment and their interaction were statistically insignificant. Thereafter, various in vitro assays were employed to assess antioxidant capacity, including 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,20-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)- 6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), metal chelating ability, and phosphomolybdenum (PMD) assays. Extracts were also tested for inhibitory effects on cholinesterase, amylase, glucosidase, and tyrosinase enzymes. RA application positively impacted antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities, holding valuable implications in shaping the health-promoting properties of L. sativum. Conclusion: The untargeted metabolomics analysis showed a significant tissue-dependent modulation of bioactive compounds, determining no synergistic effect between applying phenolic compounds in combination. Specifically, the sole application of RA increased anthocyanins and hydroxyphenyl propanoic acid content on leaves, which was strictly related to enhancing the biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to characterize the yield and biochemical response of lavender to polyamines (PAs) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation under intercropping with marigold. The application of both putrescine (Put) and spermidine (Spd) was found to be effective even at low doses (500 mg/L), with Spd at a dose of 1500 mg/L (Spd3M1) being the most effective in promoting flowering and essential oil (EO) content. However, the highest values of flower yield, EO content, and EO yield were recorded when the plants inoculated with AMF were sprayed with PAs. Chemical compounds analyzed by the GC-MS technique revealed the presence of 40 individual compounds accounting for more than 98.91% of them. We observed a positive response (increase) in the content of linalool, limonene, and geraniol for PAs application and fungal inoculation. The highest increase in these compounds was recorded in 1500 mg/L Put or Spd with AMF treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal herbs have long been utilized by numerous countries, ethnic groups, and cultures across the globe to treat various diseases since ancient times. A variety of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, tannins, carotenoids, proteins, chlorophyll, phytosterols, glycosides, phenols, flavonoids, and diterpenes, as well as minerals, vitamins and other crucial nutrients are abundantly found in medicinal plants. Medicinal plants and herbs are very useful for developing new drugs due to their potent pharmacological properties. Traditional Indian system of medicines consists of a wealth of information on medicinal plants, which contributed to developing therapies for communicable and non-communicable diseases. The present review summarizes the pharmacological characteristics such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antiulcer, hepatoprotective and cardioprotective effects of some valuable medicinal plants and herbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxilli Herba (TH) is famous for semi-parasitic feature, with hundreds of host species. The content of bioactive constituents varies in TH from different hosts. To gain insight into the molecular mechanisms of the synthesis and accumulation of bioactive constituents in TH from different hosts, we performed proteomics combined with metabolomics to investigate TH from two common hosts of Morus alba L. and Liquidambar formosana Hance. Tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics were used for analysis. A total of 533 differentially expressed proteins were detected, of which 259 were significantly up-regulated and 274 significantly down-regulated in expression levels. DEPs were shown to be mostly engaged in cellular process and metabolic process by GO analysis. DEPs were considerably abundant in amino acid metabolic pathways, according to KEGG pathway analysis. 16 bioactive constituents were quantitatively determined by ultrafast liquid chromatography simultaneously coupled with triple quadrupole/linear ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC-QTRAP-MS/MS). Meanwhile, the changes in the contents of 16 bioactive constituents were mostly compatible with the expression patterns of relevant structural proteins. The results of this study will provide basic information about the role of protein in the secondary metabolism biosynthesis pathway and the molecular mechanism of the quality formation of TH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ischemic stroke (IS) remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in humans. Unfortunately, none of the treatments effectively provide functional benefits to patients with IS, although many do so by targeting different aspects of the ischemic cascade response. The advantages of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in preventing and treating IS are obvious in terms of early treatment and global coordination. The efficacy of TCM and its bioactive constituents has been scientifically proven over the past decades. Based on clinical trials, this article provides a review of commonly used TCM patent medicines and herbal decoctions indicated for IS. In addition, this paper also reviews the mechanisms of bioactive constituents in TCM for the treatment of IS in recent years, both domestically and internationally. A comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical studies will hopefully provide new ideas to address the threat of IS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Landolphia (P. Beauv.) belongs to the Apocynaceae family with over 65 species distributed all over the tropical regions. This genus has a considerable number of documented medicinal, industrial, and ecologically beneficial effects. Therefore, this review is tailored towards the appraisal of the traditional significance, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of the genus Landolphia. This will help researchers understand future research trends by bridging the gaps between documented literature and contemporary uses. Relevant information was obtained from selection of scientific databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Wiley. From documented literature, different parts of Landolphia have been used to improve fertility, lessen menstrual pain, boost sex libido, cure malaria and typhoid. Several classes of bioactive constituents such as terpenoids, phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, fatty acids, saponins, phytosterol and phenylpropanoid, volatile compounds, lignans and coumarins have been isolated from this genus. These secondary metabolites could be responsible for the reported antimicrobial, antimalarial, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and anticancer activities exhibited by this genus. The leaves, flower, bark and root of this genus have a wide range of essential nutrients and antinutrients which are essential for normal growth and development in living organisms. Despite all findings indicating the economical, industrial and pharmacological activities of Landolphia species, secondary metabolites and pharmacological potency of Landolphia of this genus are not adequately documented. Therefore, bioassay-guided isolation on the Landolphia extracts with proven biological activities should be prioritised in order to isolate pharmacophores with unique structural frameworks.

The Brassicaceae genus consists of many economically important mustards of value for food and medicinal purposes, namely Asian mustard (Brassica juncea), ball mustard (Neslia paniculata), black mustard (B. nigra), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), hedge mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Asian hedge mustard (S. orientale), oilseed rape (B. napus), rapeseed (B. rapa), treacle mustard (Erysimum repandum), smooth mustard (S. erysimoides), white ball mustard (Calepina irregularis), white mustard (Sinapis alba), and Canola. Some of these are commercially cultivated as oilseeds to meet the global demand for a healthy plant-derived oil, high in polyunsaturated fats, i.e., B. napus and B. juncea. Other species are foraged from the wild where they grow on roadsides and as a weed of arable land, i.e., E. repandum and S. erysimoides, and harvested for medicinal uses. These plants contain a diverse range of bioactive natural products including sulfur-containing glucosinolates and other potentially valuable compounds, namely omega-3-fatty acids, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, tannins, S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide, and trace-elements. Various parts of these plants and many of the molecules that are produced throughout the plant have been used in traditional medicines and more recently in the mainstream pharmaceutical and food industries. This study relates the uses of mustards in traditional medicines with their bioactive molecules and possible mechanisms of action and provides an overview of the current knowledge of Brassicaceae oilseeds and mustards, their phytochemicals, and their biological activities.

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg, commonly known as Sanyeqing (SYQ), is an important traditional Chinese medicine. The content of bioactive constituents varies in different cultivars of SYQ. In the plant growth related researches, rhizosphere microbiome has gained significant attention. However, the role of bacterial communities in the accumulation of metabolites in plants have not been investigated. Herein, the composition of bacterial communities in the rhizosphere soils and the metabolites profile of different SYQ cultivars' roots were analyzed. It was found that the composition of microbial communities varied in the rhizosphere soils of different SYQ cultivars. The high abundance of Actinomadura, Streptomyces and other bacteria was found to be associated with the metabolites profile of SYQ roots. The findings suggest that the upregulation of rutin and hesperetin may contribute to the high bioactive constituent in SYQ roots. These results provide better understanding of the metabolite accumulation pattern in SYQ, and also provide a solution for enhancing the quality of SYQ by application of suitable microbial consortia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. represent the oldest and most frequently used herbal medicines in Eastern and Western countries. However, the quality of cultivated G. uralensis has not been adequate to meet the market demand, thereby exerting increased pressure on wild G. uralensis populations. Nitrogen, vital for plant growth, potentially influences the bioactive constituents of plants. Yet, more information is needed regarding the effect of different forms of nitrogen on G. uralensis. G. uralensis seedlings were exposed to a modified Hoagland nutrient solution (HNS), varying concentrations of nitrate (KNO3), or ammonium (NH4)2SO4. We subsequently obtained the roots of G. uralensis for physiology, transcriptomics, and metabolomics analyses. Our results indicated that medium-level ammonium nitrogen was more effective in promoting G. uralensis growth compared to nitrate nitrogen. However, low-level nitrate nitrogen distinctly accelerated the accumulation of flavonoid ingredients. Illumina sequencing of cDNA libraries prepared from four groups--treated independently with low/medium NH4+ or NO3- identified 364, 96, 103, and 64 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in each group. Our investigation revealed a general molecular and physiological metabolism stimulation under exclusive NH4+ or NO3- conditions. This included nitrogen absorption and assimilation, glycolysis, Tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, flavonoid, and triterpenoid metabolism. By creating and combining putative biosynthesis networks of nitrogen metabolism, flavonoids, and triterpenoids with related structural DEGs, we observed a positive correlation between the expression trend of DEGs and flavonoid accumulation. Notably, treatments with low-level NH4+ or mediumlevel NO3- positively improved primary metabolism, including amino acids, TCA cycle, and glycolysis metabolism. Meanwhile, low-level NH4+ and NO3- treatment positively regulated secondary metabolism, especially the biosynthesis of flavonoids in G. uralensis. Our study lays the foundation for a comprehensive analysis of molecular responses to varied nitrogen forms in G. uralensis, which should help understand the relationships between responsive genes and subsequent metabolic reactions. Furthermore, our results provide new insights into the fundamental mechanisms underlying the treatment of G. uralensis and other Glycyrrhiza plants with different nitrogen forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Licorice is a frequently applied herb with potential edible and medicinal value based on various flavonoids and triterpenes. However, studies on detailed flavonoid and triterpene metabolism and the molecular basis of their biosynthesis in licorice are very limited, especially under drought conditions. In the present study, we carried out transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome experiments. To ultimately combine three omics for analysis, we performed a bioinformatics comparison, integrating transcriptome data and proteome data through a Cloud platform, along with a simplified biosynthesis of primary flavonoids and triterpenoids in the KEGG pathway based on metabolomic results. The biosynthesis pathways of triterpenes and flavonoids are enriched at both gene and protein levels. Key flavonoid-related genes (PAL, 4CL, CHS, CHI, CYP93C, HIDH, HI4OMT, and CYP81E1_7) and representative proteins (HIDH, CYP81E1_7, CYP93C, and VR) were obtained, which all showed high levels after drought treatment. Notably, one R2R3-MYB transcription factor (Glyur000237s00014382.1), a critical regulator of flavonoid biosynthesis, achieved a significant upregulated expression as well. In the biosynthesis of glycyrrhizin, both gene and protein levels of bAS and CYP88D6 have been found with upregulated expression under drought conditions. Most of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and proteins (DEPs) showed similar expression patterns and positively related to metabolic profiles of flavonoid and saponin. We believe that suitable drought stress may contribute to the accumulation of bioactive constituents in licorice, and our research provides an insight into the genetic study and quality breeding in this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Various medicinal and aromatic plants possess bioactive components that exhibit therapeutic, cosmetic and pharmaceutical properties. Allium species comprise a subgroup of these medicinal plants which offers these potential advantages. The natural volatile oils derived from these plants have a broad range of functions owing to their richness in bioactive components. Therefore, the interest of presents study is to provide an updated and quantified information regarding the therapeutical commercial products, chemical composition, and biological applications, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Allium genus essential oils. Methods: This work is designed using a mixed methodology; an extensive data search was conducted for the period from 2000 to 2023 (July). The keywords “Essential oil”, “Allium genus”, “Bioactive components”, “Antimicrobial activity”, and “Antioxidant potential”, were utilised to extract the data. The information for the literature review was obtained from the PubMed database, while the SCOPUS online database was used for bibliometric analysis. Results: A total of 294 entries were found in PubMed, out of which only 42 studies were selected for comprehensive review based on their experimental approach, including in vivo (1) and in vitro (41) studies. Apart from this, 244 articles were selected and subjected to bibliometric analysis using the VOSviewer and Bibliometrix software. The Allium genus is one of the most representative genera from Amaryllidaceae family, whose therapeutic benefits are properly consolidated in a wide variety of ailments. Traditionally, the Allium species have been consumed in China as spices and vegetables. Although, modern Chinese medicine system have conducted several studies over the years to address the chemical composition, biological applications and commercially available products containing the essential oils of genus Allium. Conclusion: In this sense, this concise review provides an overview of the composition and biological potential (antioxidant and antimicrobial) of the Allium species-derived essential oils. The results from published works also illustrate that these volatile oils are effective in several microbial species and can be exploited as a multi-potent drug against various ailments with advanced safety and efficacy. Although, the integration of past knowledge with current research underscores the enduring significance of Allium essential oils. Furthermore, it highlights the research patterns and future trends in this research domain, providing valuable insights for future researchers to explore this domain further.

This study aimed to assess the antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, physicochemical and sensory properties of instant bio-yoghurts containing multi-purpose natural additives. Multi-purpose natural additives were formulated with three natural additives (sweet detar seed, ginger rhizome, and hibiscus calyx flours, as a thickener, flavourant and colourant, respectively) blends at proportions derived from the Design Expert. The additives’ synthetic counterparts were formulated with sodium carboxymethylcellulose, vanilla flavor, and red colourant at the same proportions. After that, yoghurt was produced and the additives blends were incorporated into it either in aqueous extract or flour form, yielding bio-yoghurts designated multi-purpose natural additive extract-containing yoghurt (MNAE-yoghurt), multi-purpose natural additive flour-added yoghurt (MNAF-yoghurt), and their multi-purpose synthetic additives-containing counterparts (MSAE-yoghurt and MSAF-yoghurt). A commercially-available bio-yoghurt served as a control. All the yoghurts were lyophilized to obtain instant bio-yoghurts. Subsequently, bioactive components (total phenolics, tannins, total flavonoids and saponins), antioxidants and enzymes [alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase, pancreatic lipase, and angiotensin 1-converting enzyme (ACE)] inhibitory activities, as well as proximate, physicochemical and sensory qualities of the bio-yoghurts were determined. The MNAE-yoghurt and MNAF-yoghurt had higher bioactive constituents, total titratable acid levels, and more potent antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties, but a lower pH than their synthetic counterparts and the control. The total phenolics, tannins, total flavonoids and saponins levels of MNAE-yoghurt and MNAF-yoghurt were 14.40 ± 0.24 and 16.54 ± 0.62 mg/g, 1.65 ± 0.04 and 1.74 ± 0.08 mg/g, 4.25 ± 0.03 and 4.40 ± 0.02 mg/g, 0.64 ± 0.01 and 0.66 ± 0.02 mg/g, respectively. Among the natural multi-purpose additives-containing bio-yoghurts, MNAF-yoghurt had higher bioactive constituents and stronger antioxidant and enzymes inhibitory properties. Its α-amylase, α-glucosidase, ACE, and pancreatic lipase IC50 values were 72.47 ± 0.47, 74.07 ± 0.02, 25.58 ± 2.58, and 33.56 ± 29.66 μg/mL, respectively. In contrast, MNAE-yoghurt had the highest protein (13.70 ± 0.85%) and the lowest fat (2.63 ± 0.71%) contents. The sensory attributes of all the bio-yoghurts fell within an acceptable likeness range. Overall, the inclusion of multi-purpose natural additives blends enhanced the instant bio-yoghurts’ nutritional, health-promoting, and sensory qualities.

Abstract The use of traditional medicines has tremendously increased over the past few decades. Approximately 80% of the world's population relies on traditional medicines for their primary healthcare needs because of their cost effectiveness and efficiency with no or minimal side effects. Zootherapy refers to the use of medicines that are prepared or derived from animals or from their products. The current study documented the folk knowledge related to the practice of various animal‐derived products and ethnozoological based drugs used as medicines by the residents of the Cholistan desert of Bahawalpur (Pakistan). In this regard 46 knowledgeable and reliable elderly people, hakims and spiritual healers ranging from 35–60 years of age having knowledge related to zootherapy were included in the current study. A field survey from February 2006 to November 2007 was conducted by interviewing the selected respondents through a structured questionnaire. They provided knowledge regarding the use of animals and their derived products in traditional medicine. The zootherapeutic knowledge was based on both domestic animals as well as wild animals. A total of 20 animal species were included in the study, among which nine animals were domestic while 11 were wild animals. Among selected animals, nine were mammals, four birds, four reptiles and three insects. It was reported that camel was the most commonly used (n = 32 respondents) among mammals while Pigeon (n = 39 respondents), Spiny‐tailed lizard (n = 41 respondents) and Indian honey bee (n = 27 respondents) among birds, reptiles and insects, respectively, have significant use for the treatment of different diseases. Based on this communication we could recommend that this type of abandoned knowledge should be considered for the management and conservation of faunistic resources. However, the advantageous role of animals and their products was reported but more extensive research is required to explore the bioactive constituents in the raw material of these animals responsible for their beneficial effects.

Vinegar is an acidic condiment with a unique taste and fragrance, which is produced by microbial fermentation. Vinegar has rich nutrients and bioactive substances, which can provide a good material basis for the development of functional vinegar. This review summarizes the major progress that has been made in vinegar research in terms of product types, brewing methods, bioactive components and their functional properties in the past decade, and proposes that future development research on functional vinegar should consider the selection and combination of raw materials, the combination and application of microorganisms with customized functions, and the selection of containers and the development of new treatment methods for the aging of vinegar. This review will be helpful for developing new healthy vinegar and novel functional vinegar beverages under the background of ‘One Health’.

The use of traditional medicines has tremendously increased over the past few decades. Approximately 80% of the world's population relies on traditional medicines for their primary healthcare needs because of their cost effectiveness and efficiency with no or minimal side effects. Zootherapy refers to the use of medicines that are prepared or derived from animals or from their products. The current study documented the folk knowledge related to the practice of various animal‐derived products and ethnozoological based drugs used as medicines by the residents of the Cholistan desert of Bahawalpur (Pakistan). In this regard 46 knowledgeable and reliable elderly people, hakims and spiritual healers ranging from 35–60 years of age having knowledge related to zootherapy were included in the current study. A field survey from February 2006 to November 2007 was conducted by interviewing the selected respondents through a structured questionnaire. They provided knowledge regarding the use of animals and their derived products in traditional medicine. The zootherapeutic knowledge was based on both domestic animals as well as wild animals. A total of 20 animal species were included in the study, among which nine animals were domestic while 11 were wild animals. Among selected animals, nine were mammals, four birds, four reptiles and three insects. It was reported that camel was the most commonly used (n = 32 respondents) among mammals while Pigeon (n = 39 respondents), Spiny‐tailed lizard (n = 41 respondents) and Indian honey bee (n = 27 respondents) among birds, reptiles and insects, respectively, have significant use for the treatment of different diseases. Based on this communication we could recommend that this type of abandoned knowledge should be considered for the management and conservation of faunistic resources. However, the advantageous role of animals and their products was reported but more extensive research is required to explore the bioactive constituents in the raw material of these animals responsible for their beneficial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance liquid chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometric (HPLC-MS-MS) methods were developed for the analysis of 13 bioactive constituents of Zizyphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS), and for samples of ZSS fried at different temperatures and from different production areas. The results showed that the content of bioactive constituents increased with the increase in frying time from 65 to 80 min at 150 °C; among the 14 samples of ZSS from different production areas, those from Shanxi Changzhi, Shandong Jining, and Hebei Xingtai had a higher content of bioactive constituents. This analytical method can accurately and quickly analyze the bioactive constituents of ZSS and provide a scientific basis for its quality control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils (EOs) have gained economic importance due to their biological activities, and increasing amounts are demanded everywhere. However, substantial differences between the same essential oil samples from different suppliers are reported—concerning their chemical composition and bioactivities—due to numerous companies involved in EOs production and the continuous development of online sales. The present study investigates the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of two to four samples of five commercially available essential oils (Oregano, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Clove, and Peppermint oils) produced by autochthonous companies. The manufacturers provided all EOs' chemical compositions determined through GC-MS. The EOs' bioactivities were investigated in vitro against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The antibacterial and antibiofilm effects (ABE% and, respectively, ABfE%) were evaluated spectrophotometrically at 562 and 570 nm using microplate cultivation techniques. The essential oils' calculated parameters were compared with those of three standard broad-spectrum antibiotics: Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid, Gentamycin, and Streptomycin. The results showed that at the first dilution (D1 = 25 mg/mL), all EOs exhibited antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against all Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria tested, and MIC value > 25 mg/mL. Generally, both effects progressively decreased from D1 to D3. Only EOs with a considerable content of highly active metabolites revealed insignificant differences. E. coli showed the lowest susceptibility to all commercially available essential oils—15 EO samples had undetected antibacterial and antibiofilm effects at D2 and D3. Peppermint and Clove oils recorded the most significant differences regarding chemical composition and antibacterial/antibiofilm activities. All registered differences could be due to different places for harvesting the raw plant material, various technological processes through which these essential oils were obtained, the preservation conditions, and complex interactions between constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avocado oil has gained a lot of favor in foods and cosmetics because of its high-quality fatty acid composition and bioactive components. This study aimed to compare the effect of various predry-treatments on the yield and quality of avocado oil from three Chinese avocado (Persea americana Mill.) varieties (Hass, Reed, and Pinkerton). The results showed that drying methods had significant effect on the avocado oil yield and its composition. Among the three drying methods the highest yield was obtained by freeze drying, and Hass showed the highest yield in the three avocado varieties with its oil owning the lowest peroxide and anisidine value. Reed oil owned the highest levels of functional micronutrients (e.g., tocopherols, phenolics, squalene). Vacuum drying resulted in higher concentrations of tocopherols, phytosterols, phenolics, squalene, and thus rendered greater DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity. These results are important to improve the quality of Chinese avocado oil.

Age-related neurological disorders (ANDs), including neurodegenerative diseases, are multifactorial disorders whose risk increases with age. The main pathological hallmarks of ANDs include behavioral changes, excessive oxidative stress, progressive functional declines, impaired mitochondrial function, protein misfolding, neuroinflammation, and neuronal cell death. Recently, efforts have been made to overcome ANDs because of their increased age-dependent prevalence. Black pepper, the fruit of Piper nigrum L. in the family Piperaceae, is an important food spice that has long been used in traditional medicine to treat various human diseases. Consumption of black pepper and black pepper-enriched products is associated with numerous health benefits due to its antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective properties. This review shows that black pepper's major bioactive neuroprotective compounds, such as piperine, effectively prevent AND symptoms and pathological conditions by modulating cell survival signaling and death. Relevant molecular mechanisms are also discussed. In addition, we highlight how recently developed novel nanodelivery systems are vital for improving the efficacy, solubility, bioavailability, and neuroprotective properties of black pepper (and thus piperine) in different experimental AND models, including clinical trials. This extensive review shows that black pepper and its active ingredients have therapeutic potential for ANDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible mushrooms are popular functional foods attributed to their rich nutritional bioactive constituent profile influencing cardiovascular function. Edible mushrooms are omnipresent in various prescribed Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, Mediterranean diet, and fortified meal plans as they are rich in amino acids, dietary fiber, proteins, sterols, vitamins, and minerals. However, without an understanding of the influence of mushroom bioactive constituents, mechanism of action on heart and allergenicity, it is difficult to fully comprehend the role of mushrooms as dietary interventions in alleviating hypertension and other cardiovascular malfunctions. To accomplish this endeavor, we chose to review edible mushrooms and their bioactive constituents in ameliorating hypertension. Hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are interrelated and if the former is managed by dietary changes, it is postulated that overall heart health could also be improved. With a concise note on different edible varieties of mushrooms, a particular focus is presented on the antihypertensive potential of mushroom bioactive constituents, mode of action, absorption kinetics and bioavailability. Ergosterol, lovastatin, cordycepin, tocopherols, chitosan, ergothioneine, γ‐aminobutyric acid, quercetin, and eritadenine are described as essential bioactives with hypotensive effects. Finally, safety concerns on allergens and limitations of consuming edible mushrooms with special reference to chemical toxins and their postulated metabolites are highlighted. It is opined that the present review will redirect toxicologists to further investigate mushroom bioactives and allergens, thereby influencing dietary interventions for heart health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department 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.)

Introduction: The current study was carried out with the hypothesis that foliar application of plant-derived smoke water (PDSW) and karrikinolide (KAR1) might enhanced the plant growth, physiology, and essential oil production of the Mentha arvensis L. Karrikinolide (KAR1) is one of the most important bioactive constituents of PDSW. Methods: Mint (Mentha arvensis L.) was grown in natural conditions in the nethouse. Different concentrations of PDSW (1:125, 1:250, 1:500 and 1:1000 v/v) and KAR1 (10-9 M, 10-8 M, 10-7 M and 10-6 M) were used as foliar-spray treatments, using double-distilled water as control. The PDSW was prepared by burning the dried wheat-straw that acted as a growth-promoting substance. Results: Foliar-spray treatment 1:500 v/v of PDSW and 10-8 M of KAR1 proved optimal for enhancing all morphological, physiological, and essential-oil yield related parameters. In comparison with the control, 1:500 v/v of PDSW and 10-8 M of KAR1 increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) the height of mint plant (19.23% and 16.47%), fresh weight (19.30% and 17.44%), dry weight (35.36% and 24.75%), leaf area (18.22% and 17.46%), and leaf yield per plant (28.41% and 23.74%). In addition, these treatments also significantly increased the photosynthetic parameters, including chlorophyll fluorescence (12.10% and 11.41%), total chlorophyll content (25.70% and 20.77%), and total carotenoid content (29.77% and 27.18%). Likewise, 1:500 v/v of PDSW and 10-8 M of KAR1 significantly increased the essential-oil content (37.09% and 32.25%), essential oil productivity per plant (72.22% and 66.66%), menthol content (29.94% and 25.42%), menthyl acetate content (36.90% and 31.73%), and menthone content (44.38% and 37.75%). Furthermore, the TIC chromatogram of the GCMS analysis revealed the presence of 34 compounds, 12 of which showed major peak areas. Discussion: Treatment 1: 500 v/v of PDSW proved better than the treatment 10-8 M of KAR1 with regard to most of the parameters studied. The outcome of the study can be used as a recommendation tool for agricultural and horticultural crops, since it costs much lesser than that of KAR1. In fact, the foliar application of PDSW proved economical and played bioactive role at very low concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antiretroviral therapy is the only treatment option for HIV-infected patients; however, it has certain drawbacks in terms of developing multiple toxic side effects. Thus, there is a continuous need to explore safe and efficacious anti-retroviral agents. Carica papaya Linn and Psidium guajava are known for their various biological activities. In this study, we characterized the bioactive fractions of methanolic leaves extract from both plants using the High-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI–MS) technique, followed by the investigation of their potential as anti-HIV-1 and antioxidant agents through in vitro mechanistic assays. The anti-HIV-1 activity was examined in TZM-bl cells through luciferase gene assay against two different clades of HIV-1 strains, whereas the intracellular ROS generation was analyzed by Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting. Additionally, the mechanisms of action of these phyto-extracts were determined through the Time-of-addition assay. The characterization of Carica papaya Linn and Psidium guajava leaves extract through HR-ESI–MS fragmentation showed high enrichment of various alkaloids, glycosides, lipids, phenolic compounds, terpenes, and fatty acids like bioactive constituents. Both the phyto-extracts were found to be less toxic and exhibited potent antiviral activity against HIV-1 strains. Furthermore, the phyto-extracts also showed a decreased intracellular ROS in HIV-1 infected cells due to their high antioxidant potential. Overall, our study suggests the anti-HIV-1 potential of Carica papaya Linn and Psidium guajava leaves extract due to the synergistic action of multiple bioactive constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out to explore the bioactive compounds from the n-hexane fraction of methanolic extract of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) roots. For this purpose, C. quinoa roots were collected, shade dried, and crushed into a fine powder. The powdered material was extracted in methanol, filtered, and the filtrate was partitioned with n-hexane, followed by GC-MS analysis of the n-hexane fraction. The quantitative determination of this fraction revealed the presence of 15 phytochemical constituents of diverse nature. Among these, octadec-9-enoic acid (44.18%); n-hexadecanoic acid (18.87%); methyl (Z)-octadec-9-enoate (12.87%); methyl hexadecanoate (4.30%); 2,3-dihydroxypropyl elaidate (3.63%); phthalic acid (3.08%); methyl octadecanoate (2.27%) and 1,12-tridecadiene (2.00%) were prevailing as the most abundant to moderately occurring compounds. A thorough literature survey was carried out to collect information regarding the pharmaceutical properties of the identified compounds. It showed some of the identified compounds namely dodecanoic acid; tetradecanoic acid; 2-benzoyl-d-galactosan; n-hexadecanoic acid; methyl octadecanoate; octadec-9-enoic acid; and 2,3- dihydroxypropyl elaidate possess antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and/or anticancer properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Biology is the property of Instituto Internacional de Ecologia 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.)

Broken brown rice is usually categorised as raw material with low market value while watermelon seeds are discarded as waste. Therefore, this study aimed to develop brown rice-watermelon seeds extruded snacks by evaluating the effects of extrusion conditions (feed moisture content (12–16%), exit barrel temperature (120 -140ºC), and barrel screw speed (300 rpm - 420 rpm)) on its composition, bioactive constituents, and glycemic index. Polynomial regression was used to model the composition, bioactive constituents, and glycemic index while response optimizer was used to optimise the protein content of the extruded snacks. At a mixing ratio of 90% brown rice flour and 10% watermelon seeds powder, the effect of extrusion conditions on the moisture content of the extruded snacks ranged from 3.03 to 4.57%, protein content (11.24 to 16.20%), crude fat (0.77 to 1.08%), crude fibre (2.07 to 2.77%), ash (2.05 to 2.63%) and carbohydrate (73.66 to 79.36%). The total phenolic content of the extruded snacks ranged between 8.14 and 10.15 mg GAE/g, total flavonoid content (1.8 and 2.11 mg QE/100 g), DPPH radical scavenging activity (10.05% and 14.22%), and Glycemic index (60.00 and 67.24). The regression models showed the adequacy to predict the composition, bioactive constitutes and glycemic index of the snacks while the optimum conditions gave extruded snacks with 17.71% protein content. The glycemic index of the extruded snacks is intermediate. Conclusively, the developed extruded snacks served as an avenue to exploit the usage of underutilized broken brown rice and watermelon seeds to produce nutrient-rich value-added extruded product.

IntroductionThe current study was carried out with the hypothesis that foliar application of plant-derived smoke water (PDSW) and karrikinolide (KAR1) might enhanced the plant growth, physiology, and essential oil production of the Mentha arvensis L. Karrikinolide (KAR1) is one of the most important bioactive constituents of PDSW. MethodsMint (Mentha arvensis L.) was grown in natural conditions in the net-house. Different concentrations of PDSW (1:125, 1:250, 1:500 and 1:1000 v/v) and KAR1 (10-9 M, 10-8 M, 10-7 M and 10-6 M) were used as foliar-spray treatments, using double-distilled water as control. The PDSW was prepared by burning the dried wheat-straw that acted as a growth-promoting substance.ResultsFoliar-spray treatment 1:500 v/v of PDSW and 10-8 M of KAR1 proved optimal for enhancing all morphological, physiological, and essential-oil yield related parameters. In comparison with the control, 1:500 v/v of PDSW and 10-8 M of KAR1 increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) the height of mint plant (19.23% and 16.47%), fresh weight (19.30% and 17.44%), dry weight (35.36% and 24.75%), leaf area (18.22% and 17.46%), and leaf yield per plant (28.41% and 23.74%). In addition, these treatments also significantly increased the photosynthetic parameters, including chlorophyll fluorescence (12.10% and 11.41%), total chlorophyll content (25.70% and 20.77%), and total carotenoid content (29.77% and 27.18%). Likewise, 1:500 v/v of PDSW and 10-8 M of KAR1 significantly increased the essential-oil content (37.09% and 32.25%), essential oil productivity per plant (72.22% and 66.66%), menthol content (29.94% and 25.42%), menthyl acetate content (36.90% and 31.73%), and menthone content (44.38% and 37.75%). Furthermore, the TIC chromatogram of the GCMS analysis revealed the presence of 34 compounds, 12 of which showed major peak areas. DiscussionTreatment 1: 500 v/v of PDSW proved better than the treatment 10-8 M of KAR1 with regard to most of the parameters studied. The outcome of the study can be used as a recommendation tool for agricultural and horticultural crops, since it costs much lesser than that of KAR1. In fact, the foliar application of PDSW proved economical and played bioactive role at very low concentrations.

Licorice is a frequently applied herb with potential edible and medicinal value based on various flavonoids and triterpenes. However, studies on detailed flavonoid and triterpene metabolism and the molecular basis of their biosynthesis in licorice are very limited, especially under drought conditions. In the present study, we carried out transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome experiments. To ultimately combine three omics for analysis, we performed a bioinformatics comparison, integrating transcriptome data and proteome data through a Cloud platform, along with a simplified biosynthesis of primary flavonoids and triterpenoids in the KEGG pathway based on metabolomic results. The biosynthesis pathways of triterpenes and flavonoids are enriched at both gene and protein levels. Key flavonoid-related genes (PAL, 4CL, CHS, CHI, CYP93C, HIDH, HI4OMT, and CYP81E1_7) and representative proteins (HIDH, CYP81E1_7, CYP93C, and VR) were obtained, which all showed high levels after drought treatment. Notably, one R2R3-MYB transcription factor (Glyur000237s00014382.1), a critical regulator of flavonoid biosynthesis, achieved a significant upregulated expression as well. In the biosynthesis of glycyrrhizin, both gene and protein levels of bAS and CYP88D6 have been found with upregulated expression under drought conditions. Most of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and proteins (DEPs) showed similar expression patterns and positively related to metabolic profiles of flavonoid and saponin. We believe that suitable drought stress may contribute to the accumulation of bioactive constituents in licorice, and our research provides an insight into the genetic study and quality breeding in this plant.

Arctium lappa L. is a medicinal edible homologous plant, commonly known as burdock or bardana, which belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is widely distributed throughout Northern Asia, Europe, and North America and has been utilized for hundreds of years. The roots, fruits, seeds, and leaves of A. lappa have been extensively used in traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). A. lappa has attracted a great deal of attention due to its possession of highly recognized bioactive metabolites with significant therapeutic potential. Numerous pharmacological effects have been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo by A. lappa and its bioactive metabolites, including antimicrobial, anti-obesity, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-allergic, antiviral, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective activities. Additionally, A. lappa has demonstrated considerable clinical efficacies and valuable applications in nanomedicine. Collectively, this review covers the properties of A. lappa and its bioactive metabolites, ethnopharmacology aspects, pharmacological effects, clinical trials, and applications in the field of nanomedicine. Hence, a significant attention should be paid to clinical trials and industrial applications of this plant with particular emphasis, on drug discovery and nanotechnology.

Matricaria recutita L., German chamomile, is one of the most widely used medicinal plants, whose efficacy has been proven in numerous studies. However, its roots have attracted only little interest so far, since mainly above-ground plant parts are used for medicinal purposes. To broaden the knowledge of chamomile roots, a profound phytochemical characterization was performed along with a bioactivity screening of corresponding root extracts. While volatile constituents such as chamomillol and polyynes were detected using GC-MS, HPLC-MSn analyses revealed the occurrence of four coumarin glycosides, more than ten phenolic acid esters and five glyceroglycolipids. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated. Polar extracts revealed IC50 values ranging from 13 to 57 µg/mL in the DPPH radical scavenging assay, which is in the same range as reported for chamomile flower extracts. In addition, superoxide radical scavenging potential and mild antibacterial effects against S. aureus und B. subtilis were demonstrated. Moreover, to assess interspecies variation in chamomile roots, extracts of M. recutita were compared to those of M. discoidea DC. Interestingly, the latter revealed stronger antioxidant activity. The presented results aim at the valorization of chamomile roots, previously discarded as by-product of chamomile flower production, as a sustainable source of bioactive phytochemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burfi, an Indian traditional dairy dessert is highly popular, however, its low nutritive value and poor shelf life limits commercial viability. Kinnow juice was utilized to improve the phytonutritional profile and shelf stability of burfi. To further improve the quality, pectin was added at different concentrations (1–4%). Compared to control, inclusion of kinnow juice significantly (p < 0.05) improved minerals and phytochemical constituents as confirmed using FTIR analysis. Developed burfi presented a softer texture which was consistent with SEM results. Increasing the pectin levels, increased textural properties of kinnow burfi while decreased moisture content and water activity, without affecting color and nutritional properties. Based on desirable sensory and textural properties, kinnow burfi prepared with pectin (4% of added sugar) was selected for product development and evaluation of shelf life under room (25 ± 2 °C) and refrigerated (4 ± 2 °C) conditions. Irrespective of storage temperatures, moisture content and bioactive constituents decreased while titratable acidity, total and reducing sugars, free fatty acids, hardness of texture, and yeast and mould count increased significantly. Except moisture, the extent of quality changes was rapid at room temperature. The product showed high sensory acceptability as well as microbial safety up to 21 days at room temperature and 28 days under refrigeration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymus vulgaris L. commonly known as thyme or garden thyme belonging to family Lamiaceae is a pleasant smelling flowering perennial shrub, cultivating all over the world. Thyme has great importance due to the possibility of its use in various applications, as food additives, in medicines and in cosmetic industry. Thyme leaves are highly aromatic therefore commonly used fresh or dried as a seasoning in a variety of culinary applications including soups, stews, sauces, meat, fish dishes and for flavoring liqueurs, herbal tea preparations. Thymus is an important medicinal plant, highly endorse due to a broad range of therapeutic properties of their chemical components such as antirheumatic, antidermatophytic, antioxidants, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, cardiac, carminative, astringent, diuretic and expectorant. The plant is also useful against cough, cold, chest infections, diabetes and for digestive upset. Flavonoids have good potential as antioxidants and antifungal behavior. The present review article gives comprehensive information about various medicinal and traditional utility and pharmacological activities of the thymus plant and its constituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past, natural substances and their structural analogs have made significant contributions to drug treatment. Several drugs come from plants, including antiepileptics, emetics, antibacterial drugs, diarrhea drugs, antioxidants, and anti-cancer drugs. Many herbs are said to have been used by indigenous people around the world for their therapeutic properties as well as being valuable in traditional medicine. The research focuses on assessment and characterization of different plant species and plant components for a range of ailments. The identification and evaluation of biologically active substances in plants has always been a difficult task. It is very important to improve qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques of medicinal plants for quality assessment in the herbal pharmaceutical industry. Many scientific and technological advances, such as sophisticated tools for deep analysis, genome extraction strategies, and advances in microbial culture, have addressed these challenges and opened up fresh opportunities. Characterization, including phytochemical screening tests that provide information for the presence of secondary metabolites, is most significant phase in analysing bioactive chemicals contained in natural plant extracts. Chromatography techniques such as HPLC/HPTLC/GC-MS as well as FTIR Spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) are highly sophisticated techniques for determining the structure of the bioactive fraction lead. This review explains how to determine the most common bio active component both qualitatively as well as quantitatively using easy and reliable approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress is a major environmental threat in agricultural systems. Kenaf is a promising crop for the future for cultivation in salinity-affected soils because of its high phytoremediation potential. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of salt stress using six different sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mM) on the plant growth, physiological characteristics, bioactive constituents, and antioxidant capacity of H. cannabinus. The results indicated that the NaCl stress induced significant reductions in plant height and in the dry and fresh weights of the leaf tissue. In addition, the K, Ca, Mg, and P concentrations in this tissue also decreased under NaCl stress treatment conditions. In contrast, the NaCl stress led to the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide anion (O2•−), malondialdehyde (MDA), proline, total soluble sugar, and total soluble protein. Under NaCl stress, the levels of antioxidants, including phenolics and flavonoids, also increased. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) results showed that the volatile compounds, including heptacosane, 1-octadecanesulphonyl chloride, and tetratetracontane, were induced under the NaCl stress treatment. Furthermore, the salt stress significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of the leaf extracts. These findings may provide insight into how H. cannabinus plants respond to salt stress and may help improve its medicinal value under salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of resistance to commonly used antibiotics by human infections occurred mostly due to their overuse, that prompted individuals to pursue novel and innovative treatments. The phytochemical characteristics, antibacterial activity, and cytotoxicity of MCF7 cells were evaluated in two Pleurotus spp. mycelial extracts in this work. Methods: Pleurotus djamor and Pleurotus florida mycelial extracts from pure cultures were tested for antibacterial activity by a well-diffusion assay and antimicrobial activity against mold fungi was evaluated for biomass inhibition. Mycelial extracts were obtained from dichloromethane extracts and their biophysical characteristics are analyzed by UV–vis spectrum and FTIR analysis. By spraying detection reagents onto TLC plates, the chemicals in dichloromethane extraction of chosen mushroom fungus mycelia were identified. Using the MTT test, the cytotoxic effect of dichloromethane extracts of selected mushroom fungi was evaluated on MCF7 Cell lines. Results: Mycelial extracts of P. djamor and P. florida exhibited significant antimicrobial effect on the bacterial and fungal pathogens tested. Dichloromethane mycelial extracts were obtained using soxhlet extraction which response positive for various phytochemical analysis. Detection of metabolites in thin layer chromatography using spray reagents documented one of few first accounts on flavonoids, anthroquinone and terpenoid compounds in P. djamor and P. florida. P. djamor and P. florida had dose-dependent antiproliferative activity against MCF7 cells, with an inhibitory impact of 55.72% and 64.47% percent at 125 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: The study has reported the identification with the potent biological activity of some of the key bioactive components present in DCM extracts from the mycelia of P. djamor and P. florida.