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Simple Summary: This study was conducted to explore the optimal level of Rheum palmatum root (RP) for the mitigation of enteric methane and demonstrate the effects on methane production and rumen fermentation characteristics in cattle fed with RP. In the in vitro trial, 3% of RP addition most effectively reduced methane production, which determined the feeding level for the test subjects in the in vivo trial. In the in vivo trial, RP addition did not affect methane emissions in the steers, likely due to the adaptation of ruminal microorganisms to the RP addition. This study investigated the impact of Rheum palmatum root (RP) for reducing methane and its impact on rumen fermentation and blood metabolites in cattle. Rumen fluid was collected from three cannulated steers (736 ± 15 kg) and mixed with buffer (1:3 ratio) for the in vitro trial. Treatments were divided into control and RP supplement groups (1%, 3%, and 5% of substrates), with each sample incubated at 39 °C for 24 and 48 hours. Methane was measured after incubation, showing a dose-dependent linear decrease after 48 hours. Quadratic changes were observed in total volatile fatty acids, acetate, and butyrate. Additionally, in vitro dry matter digestibility decreased linearly with RP inclusion. In vivo trials involved four Korean steers in a 2 × 2 crossover design over 3 weeks, with treatments including a control group and a group with 3% RP addition. Dry matter intake (DMI) tended to decrease in the RP group compared to the control. Methane emissions (g/kg DMI) were not affected by RP addition. Blood metabolites indicated higher lipase concentrations in the RP group. In conclusion, RP reduced methane production in the in vitro trial but had no effect in the in vivo trial, likely due to adaptation of ruminal bacteria to RP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saussurea laniceps is renowned for its extraordinary medicinal ingredients diversity, which is an important Tibetan medicinal plant in China. Flavonoids play an important role in the medicinal efficacy of S. laniceps. The species, however, has become increasingly scarce and endangered. Therefore, the use of callus to propagate medicinal resources is of great significance. We found that cold acclimation increased flavonoids content in S. laniceps callus. RNA-seq revealed a total of 18,414 and 21,215 differentially expressed genes at 6 d and 9 d cold (4 °C) periods, respectively. Besides, 456 differential expressed transcriptional factor genes were identified, among which AP2-EREBP, WRKY, NAC, MYB, bHLH and WD40 had the ability to induce the transcription of genes associated with flavonoid synthesis. A total of 34 unigenes were identified and linked to the flavonoids and related derivative biosynthesis pathway. The high expression levels of genes in regulating flavonoids biosynthesis (e.g., PAL, 4CL, CHS, CHI and F3’H) were identified. Besides, 66 up-regulated transporter genes were also detected, including the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family (23), GST (13), MATE (12), vacuolar-associated proteins (8) and H+-ATPase (10). Consequently, these findings suggest that cold-acclimated callus could be an effective alternative resource for flavonoids in S. laniceps, which is valuable for the conservation and usage of this wild and endangered plant.Key message: The cold acclimation of Saussurea laniceps callus resulted in an increase in flavonoid content, with the initiation of both the anthocyanins and isoflavones sub-pathways within the flavonoid pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective In this study, we evaluated the molecular mechanisms of HuangQiSiJunZi Decoction (HQSJZD) for treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) using network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses. Methods Effective chemical components together with action targets of HQSJZD were selected based on the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). Meanwhile, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were extracted from TNBC sample data in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Additionally, we built a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and acquired hub genes. Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO) datasets were utilized to verify the accuracy of hub gene expression. Additionally, enrichment analyses were conducted on key genes. Furthermore, TNBC severity-related high-risk factors were screened through univariate together with multivariate Cox regressions; next, the logistic regression prediction model was built. Moreover, differential levels of 22 immune cell types in TNBC tissues compared with normal tissues were analyzed. The hub gene levels within pan-cancer and the human body were subsequently visualized and analyzed. Finally, quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to validate the correlation of the hub genes in TNBC cells. Results The study predicted 256 targets of active ingredients and 1791 DEGs in TNBC, and obtained 16 hub genes against TNBC. The prognostic signature based on FOS, MMP9, and PGR was independent in predicting survival. A total of seven types of immune cells, such as CD4 + memory T cells, showed a significant difference in infiltration (p

Leptadenia reticulata is a vital Ayurvedic medicinal herb, commonly known as Jivanti or Jiv, and contains revitalising, rejuvenating, and lactogenic activities. It has been used in traditional medicine for treating respiratory disorders, wounds, inflammation, cough, dehydration, tuberculosis, colitis, chickenpox, dysentery, eye diseases, night blindness, fever, and snake bites. It is a perennial herb of Indian origin belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family and has been utilised for its therapeutic properties since ancient times. It is a key ingredient in several marketed herbal drugs, including chyawanprash, speman, and leptaden. Several potent compounds, including β-sitosterol, γ-sitosterol, phytol, α-amyrin, β-amyrin, apigenin, reticulin, deniculatin, leptaculatin, diosmetin, and rutin are present in this herb and attributed various pharmacological activities, including antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-abortifacient, anticancer, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiulcer properties. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the distribution, ethnobotanical use, botanical description, phytocompounds, and pharmacological activities of Leptadenia reticulata. HIGHLIGHTS: Leptadenia reticulata is a vital Ayurvedic herb containing revitalising, rejuvenating, and lactogenic activities. It is present in polyherbal formulations chyawanprash, speman, and leptaden. Its secondary metabolites have anticancer, anticholesterol, antidiabetic, antiabortifacient, and anti-inflammatory potential. This review shows the distribution, morphology, and therapeutic potential of Leptadenia reticulata. A summary of the phytochemicals present in Leptadenia reticulata will also be provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: More and more studies have shown that oxidative stress should play an important role in the treatment of osteoporosis. Oxidative stress should cause the accumulation of oxidation activity, which will damage bone-related cells. Finally, it causes the imbalance of bone resorption and bone formation, resulting in a decrease in bone volume and the destruction of the slight structure. Research in recent years has found that some natural products can regulate oxidative stress to treat osteoporosis. The characteristics of extensive sources and small side effects have obvious advantages in the treatment of osteoporosis, and the efficacy is objective. OBJECTIVE: To discuss the mechanism of natural product regulation of oxidation stress in treatment of osteoporosis, conduct a review based on the latest related research progress, provide reference and ideas for more natural products to treat osteoporosis in the future, and provide data support for the clinical application of natural compounds in the treatment of osteoporosis. METHODS: "oxidative stress, free radical, antioxidant, phytotherapy, plant extracts, medicinal plants, herbal medicine, osteoporosis, bone density, bone loss" were used as the keywords in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane, VIP, CBM, WanFang, and CNKI databases to search relevant articles published from January 2010 to February 2023. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed, and 64 relevant articles were selected by reading titles, abstracts, and full texts. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Some natural products have antioxidant effects and can regulate osteogenic differentiation, osteoblast bone matrix mineralization, osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, proliferation, differentiation, activity, and apoptosis of bone-related cells by improving oxidative stress, thus affecting bone metabolism. (2) These natural products with antioxidant effects play a role in treating osteoporosis by improving bone remodeling balance. (3) The research on the combination of a variety of natural products to improve osteoporosis remains to be explored. (4) The use of natural products to regulate oxidative stress may become a powerful weapon for the clinical treatment of osteoporosis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is known that various natural (40K, 234Th, 231Th, etc.) and technogenic (90Sr, 89Sr, 137Cs, 134Cs, etc.) radionuclides (RN) may enter into the biosphere during the operation of nuclear power plants (NPP). Moving along the transfer chains of irrigation water -- soil - plant and hydroponic nutrient solution -- substrate - plant, the RN may penetrate human organisms and potentially cause various dangerous diseases. Thus, monitoring the gross β- radioactivity of plant materials (such as vegetables, medicinal plants, fruits, etc.) and ensuring the production of radioecologically safe plant raw materials is a contemporary challenge.Since 1996, we have been conducting radiomonitoring studies in Ararat Valley in the water-soil-plant ecosystem of the zones within the 2-15, 20, and 30 km radius of Armenian NPP (ANPP) technogenic influence. Objective: To reveal the optimal conditions for radio-ecologically safe plant raw material, we compared the gross β-radioactivity of the edible parts of several valuable vegetables (rhubarb - Rheum undulatum L., Chinese cabbage - Brassica rapa subsp. Chinensis, kale - Brassica oleracea var. Sabellica L., spicy pepper - Capsicum frutescens L., (varieties - "Bishops crown", "Cayenne", "Chili De arbol", "Little Elf", "Fresno"), cicer - Cicer arietinum L., (varieties - "Kapuli" introduced from the USA, "Desi" introduced from Canada and "Leningradskaya 313" introduced from Russia)) as well as the plant raw materials of medicinal plants (ashwagandha - Withania somnifera L., Moroccan mint - Mentha spicatavar. Crispa, Marokko, Japanese pagoda tree - Sophora japonica L., holy basil - Ocimum tenuiflorum L., and rosemary - Rosmarinus officinalis L.). These plants were introduced into Armenia and grown under various outdoor hydroponic systems (organic, NFT, water stream, drip, and classical hydroponics) and in soil.hydroponics) and soil. The studies were done at the Institute of Hydroponics Problems (IHP) in Ararat Valley (a zone of ANPP with a 30 km radius). It has concrete practical significance since it allows radio-ecologically safe plant raw material to be received. Methods: The gross β-radioactivity of the plant samples was determined using a small background UMF-1500 radiometer. Results: The results of the radiochemical study have shown that in the same zone of radio voltage and climatic conditions of Ararat Valley, several varieties of crops cultivated in hydroponic and soil conditions have accumulated different amounts of β-emitting technogenic and natural RN. The gross β-radioactivity of vegetables fluctuated between 230 - 590 Bq/kg in classic hydroponics and 140 - 480 Bq/kg in soil, and the gross β-radioactivity of medicinal plants was between 320 - 680 Bq/kg in hydroponics and 240 - 450 Bq/kg in soil. In both hydroponic systems and soil, the gross β-radioactivity of the edible parts of vegetables and medicinal plants follows the same decreasing order: for vegetables, the order is rhubarb > Chinese cabbage > kale > spicy pepper > chickpea; and for medicinal plants, the order is ashwagandha > Moroccan mint > holy basil > Japanese pagoda tree > rosemary. Conclusion: Regardless of the crop varieties and cultivation methods (organic, water stream, drop, classical hydroponics, and soil culture), the plant raw material is considered radio-ecologically safe because their gross β- radioactivity doesn't exceed the radio-ecological safety threshold stated by the World Health Organization -- 1000 Bq/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drynaria roosii Nakaike, a fern widely distributed in China and some countries in Southeast Asia, is a commonly used herbal medicine in tonic diets and Chinese patented medicine. The metabolites of its dried rhizomes are easily affected by the epiphytic pattern, whether on rock tunnels (RTs) or tree trunks (TTs). The current research focused on rhizomes from these two patterns, RTs and TTs (further divided into subclasses TA, TB, TC, and TD, based on trunk differences) and conducted a widely targeted metabolomics analysis. A total of 1435 components were identified across 13 categories, with flavonoids, amino acids, and their derivative, lipids, identified as the main components. They accounted for 19.96%, 12.07%, and 12.14% of all metabolites, respectively. The top five flavonoids in TB were eriodicty-ol-7-O-(6″-acetyl)glucoside, quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (baimaside), dihydrochar-cone-4′-O-glucoside, morin, and hesperetin-7-O-glucoside, with relative contents 76.10, 24.20, 17.02, 15.84, and 14.64 times higher than in RTs. Principal component analysis revealed that samples with different epiphytic patterns clustered into five groups. The RT patterns revealed unique metabolites that were not detected in the other four epiphytic species (TA, TB, TC, and TD), including 16 authenticated metabolites: 1 alkaloid, 1 amino acid derivative, 7 flavonoids, 2 lignans, 1 lipid, 1 alcohol, 1 aldehyde, and 2 phenolic acids. These differences in epiphytic patterns considerably affected the accumulation of both primary and secondary metabolites. The comparison of diversity between RTs and TTs can guide the selection of a cultivation substance and the grading of collective rhizomes in the wild. This comprehensive analysis of D. roosii rhizome metabolites also offers fundamental insights for identifying active components and understanding the mechanisms underlying their potential pharmacological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The medicinal plant Abrus precatorius L. was traditionally used in the Siddha and Ayurvedic systems of medicine in India. The Indian center of origin holds a vast variability in its seed color. The objective of this study was to assess the total monomeric anthocyanin, flavonol, as well as the antioxidative potential, protein content and ash content among the accessions. A total of 99 accessions conserved in the Indian National Genebank were used in this study. The methods used for the estimation of total monomeric anthocyanin, flavonol, as well as the antioxidative potential, protein content and ash content were the pH differential method, Oomah method, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Potential, Dumas method and gravimetric method, respectively. The completely black colored accession was recorded with highest total monomeric anthocyanin (51.95 mg/100 g of cyanidin 3-glucoside equivalent) and flavonol content (66.41 mg/g of quercetin equivalent). Red + black colored accessions have recorded the maximum value with respect to antioxidants (14.18 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent). The highest amount of protein content was found in a completely white colored accession (20.67%) and the maximum ash content was recorded in red + black colored accession (4.01%). The promising accessions identified can be used by pharmaceutical companies in drug development and in curing degenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valeriana jatamansi Jones a perennial medicinal herb belongs to the family Caprifoliaceae and highly pollinated by wild insect pollinators. In present investigation a total of 51 species of flower visitors were reported on V. jatamansi at altitude range of 1,927 to 2,850 m, in different localities of Shimla Hills, Western Himalaya. The collected insect pollinator species were taxonomically identified and 29 of them were molecularly characterized and identified using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) sequence from mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). BLAST analysis revealed 98 to 100 per cent similarity with the existing GenBank sequences. The average AT content was found to be significantly higher (69.8%) compared to the GC content (30.0%), indicating AT bias in all sequences. Phylogenetic analysis of 29 different species of insect 'pollinator of V. jatamansi revealed two clades, one shows phylogenetic relationship between 28 species which belongs to four orders Diptera, Hymenoptera, Hemiptera and Lepidoptera and the other shows the one species which belongs to order Coleoptera. This study contributes to increasing the number of published accounts of NCBI and helps to accurately distinguish the pollinator fauna of Valeriana jatamansi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In recent years, especially with the Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the use of herbal products for various health problems has been increasing worldwide. This study aimed to determine the frequency of herbal product/dietary supplement use, the most used products, and the factors affecting the use of these products in patients who applied to the Chest Diseases Clinic. Materials and Methods: This descriptive survey study was conducted at Chest Diseases Clinic using a face-to-face interview technique. Adult individuals with subacute respiratory complaints for > 3 weeks or a diagnosis of chronic chest disease were included in the study. The questionnaire form included questions about personal characteristics, data related to disease and treatment, use of herbal products/dietary supplements, and attitudes toward these products. A total of 444 participants with all the data included in the study. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and binary logistic regression tests were used. Results: It was determined that 49.3% of the participants used herbal products/dietary supplements, and the most frequently used products were honey, linden, ginger, lemon, and carob. According to the results of the binary logistic regression test, it was determined that patients over 60 years old [odds ratio (OR)= 2.0, 95% confidence interval (Cl): 1.1-3.8, p= 0.042], those with a high education level (OR= 2.0, 95% Cl: 1.1-3.6, p= 0.018), those who live in urban (OR= 1.8, 95% Cl: 1.1-3.0, p= 0.018), and those with a diagnosis of post-COVID syndrome (OR= 2.7, 95%, Cl: 1.3-5.5, p= 0.007) are more likely to use these products. It was determined that 57.9% of the participants used these products to relieve the symptoms of the disease. Conclusion: Considering the high probability of using these products in patients with respiratory tract disease, it is essential for public health that health professionals question the use of these products and provide counseling on this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have examined the impact of prebiotics on gut microbiota and associated changes in host physiology. Here, we used the in vitro cultivation of human fecal samples stimulated with a series of chemically related prebiotics and medicinal herbs commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, followed by 16S rRNA sequencing. We applied a genome-wide metabolic reconstruction of enumerated communities to compare and contrast the structural and functional impact of prebiotics and medicinal herbs. In doings so, we examined the relationships between discrete variations in sugar composition and sugar linkages associated with each prebiotic to drive changes in microbiota composition. The restructuring of microbial communities with glycan substrates alters community metabolism and its potential impact on host physiology. We analyzed sugar fermentation pathways and products predicted to be formed and prebiotic-induced changes in vitamin and amino acid biosynthesis and degradation. These results highlight the utility of combining a genome-wide metabolic reconstruction methodology with 16S rRNA sequence-based community profiles to provide insights pertaining to community metabolism. This process also provides a rational means for prioritizing in vivo analysis of prebiotics and medicinal herbs in vivo to test hypotheses related to therapeutic potential in specific diseases of interest.

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of air-dried Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MLM) on the growth and physiology of African catfish. Air-dried MLM was incorporated into a diet D1 (19.64MJ/kg) at 0, 2, and 6% resulting in three diets. Each diet in the D1 group was fed to African catfish fingerlings (13.35 ± 0.02) at 5% body weight in triplicate group for 56 days. Weight gain was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the control diet (0% MLM) compared to MLM-based diets. White blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly (p<0.05) higher in fish-fed 2% MLM relative to those of the control and 6% MLM. Red blood cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (Hb), Mean cell volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration decreased with increasing MLM inclusion levels. Higher levels of RBC and Hb were related to higher weight gain. Levels of liver enzymes-alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) decreased with increasing MLM inclusion levels. Decreases in ALT, AST, and ALP were not different (p<0.05) among the treatments. Serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels increased in MLM-based treatments, 2% MLM were similar (p<0.05) to those of the control treatment while 6% MLM was different. Low dietary inclusion of air-dried MLM boosts WBC and increases serum proteins with no negative effect on liver enzymes. Regression of weight gain on MLM levels suggests an optimum range of 0.5 - 1% dietary inclusion can sustain growth making it a suitable feed additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hirsutism is a condition that can have medical, social, and psychological implications, affecting 5% to 10% of women worldwide. Management options include cosmetic procedures and pharmacological interventions. However, medications used to treat hirsutism can have side effects, ranging from mild symptoms like nausea and headaches to more serious complications such as vascular clots, heart attacks, hepatotoxicity, osteoporosis, and effeminization of a male fetus. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential benefits of medicinal plants on hirsutism as a complementary approach, specifically whether they can be used as adjuvants to cosmetic procedures. Databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ISI, SID, and Mag Iran have been checked with related keywords from 2000 to 2023. Moreover, related articles were isolated. In total, ten trials were identified in the search. The results suggested that various herbs, including fennel, licorice, spearmint, saw palmetto, green tea, combination of Zingiber and neem, curcumin, and teupolioside have the potential as herbal remedies for hirsutism. However, further extensive well-designed studies involving a large sample size on the most promising herbs are necessary to determine their efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The era of ongoing research is clearly progressing in the direction of chemical profiling and the evaluation of pharmacological and toxicological potential of plant extracts. The trend of sourcing essential oils (EOs) from various aromatic plants continues to hold great promise, providing anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer compounds as leads. Given this enormous potential, the EO of Allardia tridactylites (Kar. & Kir.) Sch. Bip., a highly unexplored plant from Ladakh widely known for its therapeutic uses, was explored for its phytotoxic and pharmacological potential in the present study, with a special mention of its antigerminative, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities. The oil was analysed for its chemical constitution using the GC–MS technique and found to contain an almost equal proportion of monoterpenes (44.74%) and sesquiterpenes (45.08%), with α-pinene (15.85%), α-thujone (15.78%), valeranone (17.44%), and α-bisabolol (9.47%) identified as the major compounds. EO was found to be phytotoxic against the weed Bidens pilosa L., as it reduced the germination and seedling length of the weed with increasing concentrations of EO (0.01–0.1 mg mL–1). The antibacterial effect of EO (at 25–400 µg mL–1) was evaluated against six bacterial strains: Bacillus cereus, Streptomyces scabiei, Bacillus pumilus, Rhodococcus fascians, Erwinia herbicola, and Pseudomonas syringae. Except for B. pumilus, a strong dose-dependent inhibition was observed in the growth of all the bacteria with EO treatments. R. fascians was found to be the most susceptible to EO (at 400 µg mL–1). The cytotoxic effect of EO was confirmed by a reduced mitotic index and an increased percentage of chromosomal aberrations (CAs), especially at treatments of ≥ 0.05 mg mL–1, in Allium cepa L. The type and frequency of CAs also increased at the highest EO concentration. The study concludes that the EO of A. tridactylites possesses strong phytotoxic, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities and, thus, can be a potential candidate for weed management, alongside its use in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Saffron is a significant medicinal herb that has a lot of potential for use in the development of new drugs. Since ancient times, saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been associated with various health benefits in various parts of the world. Some of these applications have been overlooked over time. However, interest in naturally occurring active compounds has rekindled interest in saffron's past applications and the best applications for saffron today can be aided by knowing its various historical uses. It was prized as a culinary spice as well as a perfume, color, and medicinal herb. It was used medicinally in many different cultures to treat a wide range of ailments, from genitourinary to eye problems. In many countries, it was also used as an antidepressant and tonic substance. Objective: The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the traditional and modern uses of Crocus sativus, with particular attention to its chemical makeup, pharmacological characteristics, and ethnobotanical description. Methodology: Scientific databases and publications about the chemical profile, biological activity, and historical use of saffron were included in the literature search. Results: Saffron is bitter, acrid, fragrant, stimulant, tonic, stomachic, aphrodisiac, anodyne, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, diuretic, laxative, galactagogue, and helpful in treating bronchitis, vomiting, fever, melancholia, hepatomegaly, etc. it is widely used in alternative medicine, such as the Unani System of Medicine, Ayurveda, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Saffron has been the subject of numerous phytochemical and biochemical studies due to its extensive use in traditional medical systems. These studies have revealed that saffron contains a number of constituents, including crocetin, safranal, and crocins, the latter of which is primarily responsible for pharmacological actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture is an essential and growing component of agricultural and global ecosystems worldwide. Aquaculture provides more than 25% of the total aquatic food consumption by humans. The development of the aquaculture industry should be followed in successive industrial years, and therefore it is necessary to pay attention to the management and type of farming system that is compatible with the environment. The use of antibiotics for disease control has been criticised for their negative effects, including the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the suppression of the immune system and the environment, and the accumulation of residue in aquatic tissues. The use of these products reduces the need for treatments, enhances the effect of vaccines, and, in turn, improves production indicators. Medicinal plants have increasingly been used in recent years as a disease control strategy in aquaculture, boosting the immune system of aquatic animals and helping to develop strong resistance to a wide range of pathogens. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the recent evidence on the beneficial use of medicinal plants to promote growth and strengthen the immune system in farmed aquatic animals.

This study investigated the impact of Rheum palmatum root (RP) for reducing methane and its impact on rumen fermentation and blood metabolites in cattle. Rumen fluid was collected from three cannulated steers (736 ± 15 kg) and mixed with buffer (1:3 ratio) for the in vitro trial. Treatments were divided into control and RP supplement groups (1%, 3%, and 5% of substrates), with each sample incubated at 39 °C for 24 and 48 hours. Methane was measured after incubation, showing a dose-dependent linear decrease after 48 hours. Quadratic changes were observed in total volatile fatty acids, acetate, and butyrate. Additionally, in vitro dry matter digestibility decreased linearly with RP inclusion. In vivo trials involved four Korean steers in a 2 × 2 crossover design over 3 weeks, with treatments including a control group and a group with 3% RP addition. Dry matter intake (DMI) tended to decrease in the RP group compared to the control. Methane emissions (g/kg DMI) were not affected by RP addition. Blood metabolites indicated higher lipase concentrations in the RP group. In conclusion, RP reduced methane production in the in vitro trial but had no effect in the in vivo trial, likely due to adaptation of ruminal bacteria to RP.

• The extract from Juniperus drupacea had a cytotoxic effect on glioblastoma cells. • The molasses from Juniperus drupacea had a cytotoxic effect on glioblastoma cells. • The molasses from Juniperus drupacea was more cytotoxic than its extract. • Juniperus drupacea may have the potential as a therapeutic for glioblastoma. Glioblastoma (GBM) is a prevalent and most malignant kind of glioma, reported as grade IV glioma by the World Health Organization. In a year 3–10 per 100.000 people are diagnosed with GBM and their mean life expectancy could only be 12–16 months after diagnosis. Juniperus drupacea, a member of the Cupressaceae family is a medicinal herb. In this study, the free radical scavenging activity and volatile components of Juniperus drupacea were analyzed and the cytotoxic effects of Juniperus drupacea molasses and cone seed extract in combination with etoposide on GBM cell line (U-87 MG (ATCC® HTB-14TM)) were evaluated. Furthermore, the impact of Juniperus drupacea extract on the migration capacity of GBM cells was examined. Based on the DPPH radical scavenging activity assay, the amount of free radical-binding antioxidants in the Juniperus drupacea extract was found to be 0.575 mg/mL Trolox equivalent. The results of the cytotoxicity and migration assays revealed that Juniperus drupacea reduced the viability and migration capacity of GBM cells and increase the cytotoxic effect of etoposide. Considering these findings, it was hypothesized that some of the components of Juniperus drupacea might have possible therapeutic effects for the treatment of glioblastoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture is an essential and growing component of agricultural and global ecosystems worldwide. Aquaculture provides more than 25% of the total aquatic food consumption by humans. The development of the aquaculture industry should be followed in successive industrial years, and therefore it is necessary to pay attention to the management and type of farming system that is compatible with the environment. The use of antibiotics for disease control has been criticised for their negative effects, including the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the suppression of the immune system and the environment, and the accumulation of residue in aquatic tissues. The use of these products reduces the need for treatments, enhances the effect of vaccines, and, in turn, improves production indicators. Medicinal plants have increasingly been used in recent years as a disease control strategy in aquaculture, boosting the immune system of aquatic animals and helping to develop strong resistance to a wide range of pathogens. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the recent evidence on the beneficial use of medicinal plants to promote growth and strengthen the immune system in farmed aquatic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of Galla chinensis (GC) powder as a dietary supplement on the immunity, growth, and pathogen resistance of white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei. An in vitro analysis demonstrated that GC inhibited Vibrio with no discernible impact on Lactobacillus. Following this, GC was tested for toxicity on white shrimp hemocytes. GC showed harmlessness to white shrimp hemocytes since cell viability was over 80% at all dosages. The immune response of hemocytes in white shrimp to diets containing varying concentrations of GC was evaluated in an in vivo experiment. Five feeding regimens were trialed for 28 days, which were designated as GC0.5, GC1, GC2.5, and GC5 (0, 0.5, 1, 2.5, and 5 g/kg, respectively). The enhanced total hemocytes, phenoloxidase, phagocytic activity, and production of superoxide anion in white shrimp on day 7 of the feeding trial by administering a supplementary GC diet significantly stimulated the nonspecific immunity of white shrimp. Additionally, dietary GC substantially increased the expression of related genes in white shrimp hemocytes in vivo, including Toll, Imd, antimicrobial peptides, antioxidant defenses, clotting protein, and heat shock protein. The challenge experiment was conducted to assess the disease resistance of white shrimp fed with GC. The shrimps were fed dietary GC for 7 days while being challenged with Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The shrimp exhibited a substantial variation in survival rate during the bacteria challenge experiment due to the activation of related genes and the enhancement of non-specific immunity. The mortality of white shrimp was substantially reduced by the supplementary GC at a concentration of 1 g/kg during the bacteria challenge. A final feeding trial was conducted to assess the effects of dietary GC on the growth performance of white shrimp. The continuous administration of dietary GC at a dose of 1 g/kg to shrimp for 56 days resulted in the highest enhancement in shrimp growth among all treatments. This was evidenced by significantly increased final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and decreased feed conversion ratios. Dietary GC at a dosage of 1 g/kg has been suggested for use to enhance the growth performance of white shrimp and improve immunological responses, particularly nonspecific immunity and related gene expression, as well as resistance to Vibrio parahaemolyticus.

Background: 4-carvomenthenol[4-methyl-1-(1-methylethyl)-3-cyclohexen-1-ol] is a main component of Origanum vulgare L., Zanthoxylum piperitum (L.) DC., and other plants. It has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-tumor effects. Furthermore, it is necessary to conduct a toxicity test on 4-carvomenthenol to ensure its safety. Methods: This study included 5-week-old Institute of Cancer Research mice that were categorized into 3 treatment groups (12, 25, and 50 mg/kg 4-carvomenthenol dose levels) and a control group (10% dimethyl sulfoxide, 40% polyethylene glycol 300, 5% Tween 80, and 45% normal saline injection of the final volume), with 5 male mice and 5 female mice per group. All groups were observed for clinical symptoms and body weight in a period of 14 days and were subjected to gross necropsy after euthanasia. Results: No deaths were recorded. No test substance-related clinical signs in the female mice of the 12 mg/kg dose group were observed. Abnormal gait was observed in 1 male from day 1 to day 3 in the 12 mg/kg dose group; 1−3 males from day 1 to day 7 and 1−5 females from day 1 to day 15 in the 25 mg/kg dose group; and 2−5 males and 2–5 females from day 1 to day 15 in the 50 mg/kg dose group. No test substance-related effect on the body weight and necropsy findings was observed. Conclusion: The results of this study suggested that the lethal dose of 4-carvomenthenol could be greater than 50 mg/kg. However, further research is needed, especially repeated-dose toxicity studies, to confirm the efficacy and safety of 4-carvomenthenol.

Introduction: The combination Camellia chrysantha and Gynostemma pentaphyllum is used in Vietnam against hyperlipidemia. This study aims to evaluate the effects of the extract mixture of C. chrysantha and G. pentaphyllum in the atherosclerosis-induced rat model. Methods: Rats were administered with the extract mixture of C. chrysantha and G. pentaphyllum daily (7 and 14 g/kg/day) for 8 weeks upon the start of the study while they were simultaneously put on an atherosclerosis-induced diet. Blood samples were taken to examine the blood lipid indicators of the rats in the beginning, after 4 and 8 weeks of the study, respectively. After 8 weeks of treatment, the rats’ livers were removed to assess their overall health and the atherosclerosis patterns of their abdominal arteries. Results: The mixture of leaf extracts of C. chrysantha and G. pentaphyllum in the doses of 7 and 14 g/kg/day reduced blood lipid indices, including triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and the atherogenic index (AI). Furthermore, this mixture also increased the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the blood, decreased the incidence of liver fat, and prevented the development of atherosclerotic lesions in the abdominal aorta in the rats. Conclusion: These results indicate that a mixture of C. chrysantha and G. pentaphyllum has a potential in preventing and treating atherosclerosis

Drynaria roosii Nakaike, a fern widely distributed in China and some countries in Southeast Asia, is a commonly used herbal medicine in tonic diets and Chinese patented medicine. The metabolites of its dried rhizomes are easily affected by the epiphytic pattern, whether on rock tunnels (RTs) or tree trunks (TTs). The current research focused on rhizomes from these two patterns, RTs and TTs (further divided into subclasses TA, TB, TC, and TD, based on trunk differences) and conducted a widely targeted metabolomics analysis. A total of 1435 components were identified across 13 categories, with flavonoids, amino acids, and their derivative, lipids, identified as the main components. They accounted for 19.96%, 12.07%, and 12.14% of all metabolites, respectively. The top five flavonoids in TB were eriodicty-ol-7-O-(6″-acetyl)glucoside, quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (baimaside), dihydrochar-cone-4′-O-glucoside, morin, and hesperetin-7-O-glucoside, with relative contents 76.10, 24.20, 17.02, 15.84, and 14.64 times higher than in RTs. Principal component analysis revealed that samples with different epiphytic patterns clustered into five groups. The RT patterns revealed unique metabolites that were not detected in the other four epiphytic species (TA, TB, TC, and TD), including 16 authenticated metabolites: 1 alkaloid, 1 amino acid derivative, 7 flavonoids, 2 lignans, 1 lipid, 1 alcohol, 1 aldehyde, and 2 phenolic acids. These differences in epiphytic patterns considerably affected the accumulation of both primary and secondary metabolites. The comparison of diversity between RTs and TTs can guide the selection of a cultivation substance and the grading of collective rhizomes in the wild. This comprehensive analysis of D. roosii rhizome metabolites also offers fundamental insights for identifying active components and understanding the mechanisms underlying their potential pharmacological activities.

The medicinal plant Abrus precatorius L. was traditionally used in the Siddha and Ayurvedic systems of medicine in India. The Indian center of origin holds a vast variability in its seed color. The objective of this study was to assess the total monomeric anthocyanin, flavonol, as well as the antioxidative potential, protein content and ash content among the accessions. A total of 99 accessions conserved in the Indian National Genebank were used in this study. The methods used for the estimation of total monomeric anthocyanin, flavonol, as well as the antioxidative potential, protein content and ash content were the pH differential method, Oomah method, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Potential, Dumas method and gravimetric method, respectively. The completely black colored accession was recorded with highest total monomeric anthocyanin (51.95 mg/100 g of cyanidin 3-glucoside equivalent) and flavonol content (66.41 mg/g of quercetin equivalent). Red + black colored accessions have recorded the maximum value with respect to antioxidants (14.18 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent). The highest amount of protein content was found in a completely white colored accession (20.67%) and the maximum ash content was recorded in red + black colored accession (4.01%). The promising accessions identified can be used by pharmaceutical companies in drug development and in curing degenerative diseases.

The earth is becoming warmer day by day, consistent with the study earth's temperature has ascended to 0.74 °C and is close to increasing from 1.8° C to 4° C by 2100. Worldwide heating is anticipating endure a typically terrible impact on plant ontogenesis. Plants' diversity and productivity are adversely suffering from abiotic ecological factors. Thermal stress is now becoming the main concern for plants everywhere. The growing risk of climatological extremes, such as very excessive temperatures, might result in a catastrophic lack of crop productiveness and bring about extensive famine. Within the boom situation of plant life, several secondary metabolites are produced with the aid of them to serve a ramification of cell capabilities vital for physiological approaches. In developing nations, aromatic and medicinal vegetation is still utilizing in conventional and alternative drug treatments. In India, medicinal vegetation is being used in conventional medication to treat diverse illnesses. Within the past years, numerous research highlighted the healing properties and biological activities of medicinal plants such as Artemisia annua, A. sativum, Andrographis paniculata, Cymbopogon flexuosus, Foeniculum vulgar, Ferula asafoetida Mentha piperita, Solanum nigrum, Piper nigrum, Tagetes minuta, Trigonella foenum, Ocimum sanctum. Excessive levels of heat in medicinal vegetation exploitation are caused by abiotic stress outcomes with the production of ROS inside the cell chambers of a plant cell, which ultimately have a tremendous effect on secondary metabolite production. The excessive temperature has a wide variety of consequences on plant life in phrases of physiology, biochemistry, and gene regulatory pathways. Right here, we provide an assessment of the impact of temperature on numerous medicinal flora.

ABSTRACT: Echinacea purpurea (EP) is an herb that has demonstrated immunostimulatory and anti-inflammatory effects with the potential to improve immunity, health, and performance in animals. The objective of this study was to investigate how supplementing calves with EP affects their blood immunity marker profile, health, intake, and growth. Male Holstein calves (n = 240), sourced from local dairy farms or auction, arrived at a rearing facility between 5 and 14 d of age and were kept in individual pens in 1 of 3 rooms (80/room) for 56 d, and then put into groups for the remaining 21 d of the trial. Calves received milk replacer (MR) 2× per day for 56 d (total = 36 kg of MR) and had ab libitum water and starter access. Within room, calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: (1) control (n = 80), (2) 3g of dried (powder) EP extract per day split over 2 milk feedings from experiment d 14–28 (n = 80), and (3) 3 g of dried (powder) EP extract per day split over 2 milk feedings from experiment d 1–56 (E56; n = 80). The powdered EP treatments were mixed into the liquid MR. On d 1, 14, 28, and 57 rectal temperatures and blood were collected from a subset of calves (n = 117; 39 calves/treatment), and blood serum was assessed for serum total protein (d 1), haptoglobin, white blood cells, and cytokines. Failed transfer of passive immunity was defined as serum total protein

Medicinal herbs are being widely accepted as alternative remedies for preventing various diseases especially in India and other Asian countries. However, most plant-based herbal medicines are not yet being scientifically accepted worldwide. “Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook.F. & Thomson”, one of the most promising plant species of Tinospora known as “Giloy” or Guduchi that is used in several traditional medicines in treating diseases e.g., metabolic and immune disorders, diabetes, heart diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases, has been widely investigated. Varieties of bioactive phytochemical constituents isolated from the stem, root and whole plant of T. cordifolia have been identified. In the last two decades, the diverse pharmacological activities of T. cordifolia have been continuously studied. Due to its therapeutic efficacy in immune modulation, it could be effective in viral and other diseases treatment as well. A medicinal plant could be well-suited not only for the treatment of target site but also for boosting the body's immune system. As an alternate source of medication, medicinal herbs are continuously showing better compatibility with the human body with minimal side effects than other therapies. Keeping this in mind, the present review highlights the pharmacological potential of T. cordifolia against various diseases.

High cost of chemical fertilizers and poor nutrient content in conventional organic sources (manure, compost, charcoal etc.) can be addressed through development of enriched organic amendments. However, there is a need to evaluate enriched organic amendments as a potential alternative of chemical fertilizers. Therefore, an effort was made to prepare enriched organic amendments through blending distillation waste of aromatic plant biomass (DWB) with naturally available low-grade rock phosphate (RP) and waste mica (WM). Enrich compost (ENC) was produced from DWB in a natural composting process, blended with mineral powder, whereas biochar fortified mineral (BFM) was prepared by blending biochar, derived from DWB through hydrothermal reaction, with mineral powder. The main aims of the present study were to investigate the impacts of ENC and BFM applications on soil properties, and herbage yield and quality of a medicinal herb Senna (Cassia angustifolia Vahl.). The performances of ENC and BFM at two different rates (2.5 and 5 t ha−1) were compared with the application of conventional farmyard manure (FYM, 5 t ha−1) and chemical fertilizers (CF, NPK 60-40-20 kg ha−1) in two different soils in a pot experiment. Both, ENC and EBC improved soil quality and fertility by increasing soil organic carbon, available nutrients, microbial biomass and enzyme activity. The ENC and BFM increased total herbage yields by 21 and 16.3 % compared to FYM. In both soils, the CF treatment produced the maximum dry herbage yields (32.7–37.4 g pot−1), which however were comparable to ENC (31.9–33.7 g pot−1) and BFM (30.7–35.1 g pot−1) treatments. Bioactive compound (sennoside) production in senna was significantly improved by ENC and BFM compared to CF. The present study indicates that ENC and BFM could not only help to overcome the limitation of conventional FYM, but also have the potentials to substitute costly chemical fertilizers, particularly in medicinal plant cultivation.

This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of Pseudomonas growth-promoting bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, and living mulch on morphological and physiological traits of a medicinal herb, Pimpinella anisum. The study was carried out using a factorial design in a randomized complete block design arrangement with three replications during the crop year of 2019–2020. The first factor includes the use of biological fertilizers (fungi and bacteria) at four levels: 1) control (without the use of biological fertilizers), 2) mycorrhizal fungi, 3) growth-promoting bacteria, 4) combined use of growth-promoting bacteria and fungi. The second factor includes mulch (plant residues) at four levels: 1) control, 2) wheat straw (3 t/ha), 3) berseem clover mulch (2 t/ha), 4) living berseem clover mulch, cultivated among the rows of anise. Cultivation of clover and anise was done simultaneously. Results showed that the combined use of biological fertilizers (Glomus intraradices and Pseudomonas putida) along with living clover mulch led to a significant increase in seed yield, harvest index, and the essential oil yield of anise. Moreover, under such conditions, the highest seed yield (930.8 kg/ha) and the highest essential oil yield (18.15 kg/ha) increased by 48% and 51% compared to the control, respectively. We found that the use of living clover mulch led to a significant increase in biological yield, seed yield, and the number of umbels and umbellets of anise. Accordingly, the highest biological yield of 5332 kg/ha was obtained, which was 55% higher than the control. The extraction of essential oil components showed that α-pinene and para-cymene showed the highest amount and significant components of essential oil. Moreover, the maximum amount of α-pinene (2.277%) observed upon fungi and living clover applica­tion along with inter-row clover cultivation (increased by 60% compared to the control), and the maximum value of para-cymene (0.2300%) was obtained upon bacteria and living clover inoculation along with inter-row clover culti­vation (increased by 59% compared to the control). Finally, according to the perspectives of sustainable and organic agriculture in medicinal plant cultivation, the use of ecologically compatible inputs such as bacteria and fungi that stabilize food elements, as well as the use of living and non-living plant mulches, can be used as a tool to increase the quantitative and qualitative performance of the anise plant.

This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of Pseudomonas growth-promoting bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, and living mulch on morphological and physiological traits of a medicinal herb, Pimpinella anisum. The study was carried out using a factorial design in a randomized complete block design arrangement with three replications during the crop year of 2019-2020. The first factor includes the use of biological fertilizers (fungi and bacteria) at four levels: 1) control (without the use of biological fertilizers), 2) mycorrhizal fungi, 3) growth-promoting bacteria, 4) combined use of growth-promoting bacteria and fungi. The second factor includes mulch (plant residues) at four levels: 1) control, 2) wheat straw (3 t/ha), 3) berseem clover mulch (2 t/ha), 4) living berseem clover mulch, cultivated among the rows of anise. Cultivation of clover and anise was done simultaneously. Results showed that the combined use of biological fertilizers (Glomus intraradices and Pseudomonas putida) along with living clover mulch led to a significant increase in seed yield, harvest index, and the essential oil yield of anise. Moreover, under such conditions, the highest seed yield (930.8 kg/ha) and the highest essential oil yield (18.15 kg/ha) increased by 48% and 51% compared to the control, respectively. We found that the use of living clover mulch led to a significant increase in biological yield, seed yield, and the number of umbels and umbellets of anise. Accordingly, the highest biological yield of 5332 kg/ha was obtained, which was 55% higher than the control. The extraction of essential oil components showed that α-pinene and para-cymene showed the highest amount and significant components of essential oil. Moreover, the maximum amount of α-pinene (2.277%) observed upon fungi and living clover application along with inter-row clover cultivation (increased by 60% compared to the control), and the maximum value of para-cymene (0.2300%) was obtained upon bacteria and living clover inoculation along with inter-row clover cultivation (increased by 59% compared to the control). Finally, according to the perspectives of sustainable and organic agriculture in medicinal plant cultivation, the use of ecologically compatible inputs such as bacteria and fungi that stabilize food elements, as well as the use of living and non-living plant mulches, can be used as a tool to increase the quantitative and qualitative performance of the anise plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the medicinal potential of the leaves of Picrorhiza kurroa, a high-altitude medicinal herb known as Kutki. The study found that the leaves contain various phytochemicals and exhibit significant antibacterial activity against certain bacteria. The research suggests that the leaves, along with the roots and rhizomes, have medicinal value and could be used as an alternative to prevent over-exploitation of the endangered plant. The study also examined the concentration of phytochemicals in the leaves and found that it increased at higher altitudes. The article emphasizes the importance of conserving P. kurroa due to its high medicinal potential. [Extracted from the article]

The medicinal plant Helleborus niger L. (Ranunculaceae) found in the European Alps has been valued as an effective remedy for numerous diseases for centuries. Recent preclinical evaluations showed pharmacologic potential of the plant extract for cancer treatment. Furthermore, several compounds extracted from H niger exhibited potent pharmacological effects. Thus, the renaissance of this old and proven medicinal herb requires better knowledge of its bioactive ingredients. A key ingredient of H niger is protoanemonin which is responsible for its burning hot taste and vesicant effect. Protoanemonin possesses antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, and antimutagenic activity, and its isolation, synthesis, and preparation as a therapeutically valuable medicinal product are well elaborated. Anemonin, the dimer of protoanemonin, has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antimalarial activity, whereas (-)-ranunculin, a protoanemonin glycoside, possesses cytotoxicity and antimutagenic activity. (+)-Ranuncoside, another protoanemonin glycoside, has a spiro acetal molecular scaffold, a feature that is responsible for the biological activity of a multitude of natural products. Furthermore, the flavonoids kaempferol glycoside, quercetin glycoside, and glucosyl-phenyllactic acid have been isolated, and other phenolics with complex structures were detected as well. The main active ingredient of H niger rhizomes is the bufadienolide hellebrin. It is a steroidal cardiac diglycoside with utility for heart failure treatment. Hellebrin and its aglycon hellebrigenin are patented as lead compounds to treat cancer. Recently, additional bufadienolides as well as ecdysteroids were isolated from H niger whole plants and showed potent cytotoxicity on human cancer cell lines. Finally, various saponins have been determined by mass spectrometry, of which 4 compounds isolated from the rhizome are awaiting pharmacological assessment. This review gives an overview of the current knowledge of the isolation, synthesis, structure elucidation, derivatization, and biological activities of known H niger constituents. Furthermore, recent advances concerning the development of pharmaceuticals from these constituents and their derivatives are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methanolic leaf extracts of the medicinal herb Centella asiatica (Asiatic pennywort) were screened for in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial activities against Vibrio alginolyticus isolated from whiteleg shrimp, Penaeus vannamei. Phytochemical analyses were positive for tannins, saponins, steroids, and cardiac glycosides. Antioxidant test revealed antioxidant activity nearly as potent as that of 0.8 mg/mL ascorbic acid. Minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations against V. alginolyticus were determined to be 0.79 and 12.50 mg/mL respectively. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated disruptions of treated bacterial cells. 30 mg/kg extract supplementation achieved 85% survival of juvenile shrimp in a feeding trial. Histopathology showed increasingly fewer alterations in hepatopancreas from 10, 20 to 30 mg/kg supplementation, where 30 mg/kg preserved the tissues most with relatively complete structure including the star-shaped tubule lumen and various cell types. The present findings suggest the potential of C. asiatica as an alternative antimicrobial agent against V. alginolyticus as well as other Vibrio spp. and gram-negative bacteria in aquaculture.

The Thymus L. genus is extremely widespread on the territory of Ukraine and includes up to 50 main species. Extracts from the official species of the Thymus L. genus are part of effective herbal preparations with pronounced anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. A promising direction of modern phytochemical research is the determination of the accumulation of biologically active polyphenolic compounds in the Thymus vulgaris L. herb, which is widely cultivated in Ukraine and other countries. The aim of the work is to determine the accumulation of polyphenolic compounds in Thymus vulgaris L. herb at the end of flowering using TLC and HPLC methods. Materials and methods. For experimental studies, alcohol extracts from Thymus vulgaris L. herb (1:100) were used. The plants were cultivated in Volodymyrivka, Zaporizhzhia region during the period of maximum polyphenolic compounds accumulation (June – August 2022). The substances’ component composition was studied by TLC method Biostep CD 60 densitometer (Germany) and HPLC Agilent 1260 Infinity HPLC System Open LABCDS Software (Japan). Results. TLC and HPLC methods revealed up to 29 polyphenolic compounds. Experimentally determined flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids are known in phytotherapy for their pronounced anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. Conclusions. Considering the results obtained by TLC and HPLC methods, it can be concluded that Thymus vulgaris L. is a promising species for further phytochemical research.

Hirsutism is a condition that can have medical, social, and psychological implications, affecting 5% to 10% of women worldwide. Management options include cosmetic procedures and pharmacological interventions. However, medications used to treat hirsutism can have side effects, ranging from mild symptoms like nausea and headaches to more serious complications such as vascular clots, heart attacks, hepatotoxicity, osteoporosis, and effeminization of a male fetus. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential benefits of medicinal plants on hirsutism as a complementary approach, specifically whether they can be used as adjuvants to cosmetic procedures. Databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ISI, SID, and Mag Iran have been checked with related keywords from 2000 to 2023. Moreover, related articles were isolated. In total, ten trials were identified in the search. The results suggested that various herbs, including fennel, licorice, spearmint, saw palmetto, green tea, combination of Zingiber and neem, curcumin, and teupolioside have the potential as herbal remedies for hirsutism. However, further extensive well-designed studies involving a large sample size on the most promising herbs are necessary to determine their efficacy.

Cholesterol stones are a common occurrence worldwide. Surgery is an effective way to treat cholesterol stones, but some patients may experience stone regeneration after surgery, and there is still no effective prevention and treatment strategy. Cholesterol supersaturation in bile is a prerequisite for the formation of cholesterol stones, but the specific pathogenesis remains poorly understood. In recent years, studies have found that intestinal dysbacteriosis is an important pathological basis for abnormal lipid metabolism closely related to the formation of cholesterol stones, and maintaining intestinal flora homeostasis can effectively prevent and treat cholesterol stones by taking intestinal flora as the starting point. "Earth stagnation and wood depression" is the pathological process of spleen and soil stagnation, and anti-insult liver wood result in liver wood stagnation, which plays an important role in the pathogenesis of cholesterol stones. By discussing the relationship between "earth stagnation" and intestinal flora, this paper proposes the important role of traditional Chinese medicine spleen soil in cholesterol stones and provides a new interpretation of the role of the "earth stagnation and wood depression" theory in the pathogenesis of cholesterol stones. At the same time, it is proposed that gallbladder treatment should be achieved by thinning the liver and treating the spleen, which can improve the imbalance of intestinal flora and regulate lipid metabolism to prevent and control the formation of cholesterol stones and may provide new prevention and treatment ideas for cholesterol stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echinacea purpurea (EP) is an herb that has demonstrated immunostimulatory and anti-inflammatory effects with the potential to improve immunity, health, and performance in animals. The objective of this study was to investigate how supplementing calves with EP affects their blood immunity marker profile, health, intake, and growth. Male Holstein calves (n = 240), sourced from local dairy farms or auction, arrived at a rearing facility between 5 and 14 d of age and were kept in individual pens in 1 of 3 rooms (80/room) for 56 d, and then put into groups for the remaining 21 d of the trial. Calves received milk replacer (MR) 2× per day for 56 d (total = 36 kg of MR) and had ab libitum water and starter access. Within room, calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: (1) control (n = 80), (2) 3g of dried (powder) EP extract per day split over 2 milk feedings from experiment d 14–28 (n = 80), and (3) 3 g of dried (powder) EP extract per day split over 2 milk feedings from experiment d 1–56 (E56; n = 80). The powdered EP treatments were mixed into the liquid MR. On d 1, 14, 28, and 57 rectal temperatures and blood were collected from a subset of calves (n = 117; 39 calves/treatment), and blood serum was assessed for serum total protein (d 1), haptoglobin, white blood cells, and cytokines. Failed transfer of passive immunity was defined as serum total protein <5.2 g/dL. Calves were health scored 2× per day, receiving fecal and respiratory scores until d 28 and 77, respectively. Calves were weighed on arrival and then weekly until d 77. Milk replacer and feed refusals were recorded. Supplementation of EP was associated with lower haptoglobin levels, segmented neutrophil counts, segmented neutrophil per lymphocyte ratio, respiratory scores in auction derived calves, and higher lymphocyte counts and d 28 rectal temperature. Of calves with heavier arrival body weight, E56 calves had greater postweaning weekly body weight. There was no detected effect of EP supplementation on total white blood cells, band neutrophil, monocyte, and basophil counts, IL-10, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, fecal scores, risk of receiving diarrhea and respiratory treatment, risk of bovine respiratory disease (calves were deemed at risk for bovine respiratory disease if they had at least 1 respiratory score ≥5), risk of mortality, MR and feed intake, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio. Overall, EP supplementation to dairy calves was associated with immunomodulation and reduced inflammation, evidenced through blood markers, although only few minor health and growth improvements were observed. Benefits were observed particularly when fed across the whole milk feeding period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety of medicinal herbs is critical to human health, and the monitoring of pesticide residues in medicinal herbs is necessary. In the present study, a direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (dc-ELISA) was developed for the determination of imidacloprid in medicinal herbs. Using the optimal conditions, the 50% inhibiting concentration and detection range (20–80% inhibiting concentration) of the established dc-ELISA were 0.08 and 0.03–0.29 ng/mL, respectively. Except for clothianidin (4.64%) and acetamiprid (2.52%), the cross-reactivity with analyte analogs was negligible. In purple perilla, cordate houttuynia, water lily, bitter melon, and mung bean, the average imidacloprid recoveries were from 62.97 to 134.09%, with relative standard deviations between 0.21 and 14.58%. Furthermore, the immunoassay results correlated well with spiked samples analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The established immunoassay is rapid, sensitive, and specific and suitable to monitor imidacloprid residues in medicinal herbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The earth is becoming warmer day by day, consistent with the study earth's temperature has ascended to 0.74 °C and is close to increasing from 1.8° C to 4° C by 2100. Worldwide heating is anticipating endure a typically terrible impact on plant ontogenesis. Plants' diversity and productivity are adversely suffering from abiotic ecological factors. Thermal stress is now becoming the main concern for plants everywhere. The growing risk of climatological extremes, such as very excessive temperatures, might result in a catastrophic lack of crop productiveness and bring about extensive famine. Within the boom situation of plant life, several secondary metabolites are produced with the aid of them to serve a ramification of cell capabilities vital for physiological approaches. In developing nations, aromatic and medicinal vegetation is still utilizing in conventional and alternative drug treatments. In India, medicinal vegetation is being used in conventional medication to treat diverse illnesses. Within the past years, numerous research highlighted the healing properties and biological activities of medicinal plants such as Artemisia annua, A. sativum, Andrographis paniculata, Cymbopogon flexuosus, Foeniculum vulgar, Ferula asafoetida Mentha piperita, Solanum nigrum, Piper nigrum, Tagetes minuta, Trigonella foenum, Ocimum sanctum. Excessive levels of heat in medicinal vegetation exploitation are caused by abiotic stress outcomes with the production of ROS inside the cell chambers of a plant cell, which ultimately have a tremendous effect on secondary metabolite production. The excessive temperature has a wide variety of consequences on plant life in phrases of physiology, biochemistry, and gene regulatory pathways. Right here, we provide an assessment of the impact of temperature on numerous medicinal flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Verbenalin is an iridoid glucoside, which is among the active components of some medicinal herbs such as Verbena officinalis Linn, and Cornus officinalis Siebold and Zucc. Previous studies have confirmed the antioxidant activity and neuroprotective potential of verbenalin. To confirm the safety of verbenalin, an approximate lethal dose was determined based on a single oral dose toxicity study. Methods Institute of Cancer Research mice were randomly assigned to three verbenalin exposure groups (250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg) and a control group (5% methylcellulose solution). There were (5 male and 5 female mice per group). Mortality, clinical signs, and body weight were monitored for 14 days, and necropsies were conducted. Results No mortalities were observed in the control group or the verbenalin 250 mg/kg group, whereas mortalities were observed in the 500 mg/kg and 1,000 mg/kg verbenalin groups. During the observation period, stool abnormalities such as mucous stools were observed. Clinical signs such as loss of locomotor activity were observed in the 500 mg/kg and 1,000 mg/kg verbenalin groups. During the study period, significant changes in body weight were observed in the 500 mg/kg and 1,000 mg/kg verbenalin groups; however, no gross abnormalities were observed at necropsy. Overall, no toxicity was found in the 250 mg/kg group. Conclusion The approximate lethal dose of verbenalin was estimated to be 500 mg/kg. For a more accurate assessment of the safety of verbenalin, other types of studies such as repeated-dose toxicity studies should also be conducted.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common pulmonary diseases. The current therapeutic outcomes are not satisfactory and may cause adverse events such as cardiovascular complications. In this study, we aimed to discuss some effective medicinal herbs for the management of COPD. Materials and Methods: In this review, we looked for effective medicinal herbs for productive cough with thick and sticky mucus in Persian medicine sources such as Qanoon fi al-Teb, Exir Azam, and Zakhire Kharazmshahi. Then, to find relevant evidence about them, the data sources (PubMed and Google Scholar) were searched in the English language without time restriction from inception up to March 2022. Results: We found that Zataria multiflora, Thymus vulgaris L, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Crocus sativus L., Nepeta bracteata Benth., and Hyssopus officinalis have beneficial effects on COPD due to their properties including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. In addition, considering asthma COPD overlap (ACO), medicinal herbs including Cordia myxa, Adiantum capillus-veneris, Cinnamomum verum, Viola odorata, Borago officinalis, Linum usitatissimum and Vitis viniferia L. were found to have useful effects on asthma. Conclusion: Considering the mentioned beneficial mechanisms of action of these medicinal herbs, they could be used as a complementary therapy in COPD and asthma. However, more experimental and clinical research should be done to confirm their clinical effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]