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Background: The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. Method: A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. Result: The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. Method A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. Result The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. Conclusion The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies.

Generally, orchids highly depend on specific fungi for seed germination and subsequent seedling development in nature. For medicinal orchids, obtaining compatible fungi is prerequisite for imitation of wild cultivation and conservation. In this study, the two important traditional Chinese medicinal orchids, Pleione bulbocodioides and Bletilla striata, were studied to screen out effective fungi for seed germination and seedling development. P. bulbocodioides seeds germinated and formed protocorms in all fungal and control treatments, but seedlings only developed in fungal Serendipita officinale (SO) and S. indica (SI) treatments and nutrient-rich medium MS treatment. At 90 days after incubation, the percentages of seedlings were 34.83 ± 3.4% and 27.59 ± 3.5% in SO and SI treatments, which were significantly higher than the MS treatment (18.39 ± 2.0%; all P < 0.05). At this stage, most seedlings in SO and SI treatments bore two leaves (Stage 5), and pelotons inside the basal cells of seedlings were clearly observed. For B. striata, seeds germinated up to seedlings with or without fungus, but seedlings developed rapidly in SI treatment. At 90 days after incubation, the percentage of seedlings in SI treatment reached 77.90 ± 4.1%, but was significantly lower than the nutrient-poor medium OMA treatment (85.18 ± 3.7%; P < 0.01), however, the seedlings in SI treatment were stronger than the seedlings in OMA treatment. The results suggested that P. bulbocodioides rely on compatible fungi for seeds germinated up to seedlings, and fungus SO could effectively promote seed germination and support seedling development; while B. striata can germinate up to seedling without any fungus, but compatible fungus S. indica can greatly speed up seed germination and promote seedling development. We suggest that S. officinale and S. indica fungi can be used in conservation practices or imitation of wild cultivation of these two important medicinal orchids, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study identified the main bioactive constituents extracted from a mixture containing four plant extracts. Four Saudi Traditional Medicinal plant extracts containing Psiadia arabica Jaub, Tamarix articulata, Terminalia arjuna and Rhazya stricta were identified using GC-Mass. Materials and Methods: The samples Psiadia arabica Jaub, Tamarix articulata, Terminalia arjuna and Rhazya stricta were collected from various regions of Saudi Arabia. The air-dried parts of each plant were powdered and soaked in methanol for 24 hr, except Psiadia arabica Jaub in chloroform. After that, it was obtaining the concentration plant extract through a rotary evaporator. The mixture of plant extracts was analyzed by GC-MS spectrometry. Results: The most abundant compounds identified including heneicosane (7.3%), tetradecane 4,11-dimethyl-(7.11%), Phytol (1.5%), dodecane, 2,6,10-trimethyl-(1.9%) and hexadecane (1.1%), while the lowest concentrations were observed for 10-methylnonadecane, n-hexadecane, tridecane, 2-methyl-, Naphthalene, 1,2,4a,5,6,8a-hexahydro-4,7-dimethyl-1-(1-methylethyl)- and Dodecane, 2,6,11-trimethyl-. One of the main constituents noticed in the combination of four plants was heneicosane, which exhibits a strong antimicrobial effect. In addition, phytol showed multiple effects, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, ant nociceptive, anxiolytic, metabolism-modulating and immune-modulating. Conclusion: These functional molecules identified are known to have different biological activities as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-proliferative and antidiabetic. Further studies needed to investigate the mechanism of action through signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lelna people of Zuru, Kebbi State, North-western Nigeria, predominantly prefer the use of medicinal plants as viable treatments against different ailments, including trypanosomiasis, as the area is endowed with viable medicinal plants, despite a gradual decrease in the traditional knowledge of usage. This study seeks to document medicinal plants used for the treatment of trypanosomiasis among lelna people. A survey was conducted from October 2021 to January 2022 among the lelna tribes. Information was collected from 104 respondents using the purposive sampling technique and interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data. The survey documented 34 medicinal plant species belonging to 31 genera and 20 families. The highest fidelity level and relative frequency of citation of commonly mentioned plants were observed for Rogeria adenophylla J. Gay and Ricinus communis Linn. Fabaceae family, represented by 8 species, appears to be the most commonly utilized family. The most frequently cited species were wild-derived trees or shrubs and most herbal remedies were mainly prepared by decoction (45%) and administered orally (100%). Leaves (39%) and stem bark (16%) accounted for the highest proportion of the biological parts of plants used in remedy preparation. Parasitic diseases presented the highest informant consensus factor (ICF = 0.68) among the cited species. This study has documented potential traditional medicinal plant species for treating trypanosomiasis in Zuru, Kebbi State. Pharmacological studies to identify the active principles of the cited species are required to validate their uses and unveil new potential trypanoside agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a survey for microfungi associated with traditional medicinal plants in Guangdong Province, China, an interesting species in the Tetraplosphaeriaceae was isolated from the dead stem of Wurfbainia villosa (Zingiberaceae). The new collection is characterised by brown to dark brown, cylindrical to ovate, four-columned conidia, mostly with four straight or slightly flexuous, smooth, and long apical appendages. The phylogenetic analysis of the combined dataset of internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit nuclear rDNA (LSU), the partial translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α), and β-tubulin (tub2) further indicated that the new collection forms a distinct branch in Tetraploa and clusters as a sister taxon with T. dwibahubeeja. Thus, we introduce a new species, Tetraploa wurfbainiae, based on distinct morphology and multi-locus phylogeny, accompanied by a description, illustration, and morphological comparison with related taxa. This is the first report of Tetraploa species on the medicinal plant W. villosa. This study enhances our understanding of the fungal species associated with the medicinal plant W. villosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discusses the use of traditional medicinal plants from an ethnopedagogical perspective, focusing on a case study in the Sundanese community. The research aims to understand the traditional healing practices involving the use of medicinal plants among the Sundanese people and how the ethnopedagogical approach can be used to uncover local knowledge and strengthen these cultural practices. The research methodology employed is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation study. The research sample was purposively selected, involving community leaders or traditional healing experts with extensive knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional healing practices in the Sundanese community. The results show that the use of traditional medicinal plants remains an integral part of the Sundanese healthcare system. These plants are used to treat various diseases and health disorders, serving as symbols of local wisdom and cultural identity. The ethnopedagogical approach facilitates the sustainable transfer of knowledge from generation to generation and raises awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the context of traditional medicine.

Maintaining health is a crucial aspect of human life, and one traditional method to boost the immune system is through the use of medicinal plants. The practice of using medicinal plants has been passed down through generations, but in the present era, there is a decline in interest, particularly among the younger generation due to a lack of knowledge about the benefits of medicinal plants. This research aims to develop an interactive learning media introducing traditional medicinal plants, named "Herba Wisdom," as a solution to educate the younger generation on harnessing the benefits of medicinal plants. In an effort to create innovative learning media, this study will implement the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC) method. MDLC serves as a structured framework in the development of learning media, ensuring quality and consistency throughout the development process. The development will be carried out using Construct 2, a practical, fast, and efficient platform for creating interactive multimedia. The research employs black-box testing to assess program functionality, resulting in a program that operates effectively and provides a high level of user satisfaction.

Background: People in Sekela District, like others in Ethiopia, have a long tradition of using medicinal plants to treat human and livestock ailments. However, medicinal plants and their associated indigenous knowledge are currently under threat. Thus, the study was carried out to compile ethnobotanical knowledge about medicinal plants in the district. Methods: A total of 352 informants from six study sub-districts (328 general and 24 key informants) were selected randomly and purposefully. Individual interviews, focus group discussions, guided field walks, and market surveys were used to acquire ethnobotanical data using semi structured interview questions. The informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, medicinal use, and Analysis of Variance were used. Results: A total of 121 medicinal plants belonging to 106 genera and 55 families were documented. The Asteraceae family had the most species with 11 (9 %), followed by Lamiaceae with 8 (6.6 %), while leaves were the most utilized part with 56 (37 %). The majority of the remedies were made as a concoction (32, 17 %) and delivered orally (98, 57 %). There was a statistically significant difference in indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants among genders, ages, marital status, educational levels, and occupations (p ˂ 0.05). The dermatological disease categories had the highest ICF (0.92) in human ailments. Conclusion: The study revealed that Sekela District is rich in medicinal plants for treating human and livestock ailments, and has indigenous knowledge to utilize these resources effectively. However, overgrazing, agricultural expansion, and improper harvesting techniques threaten medicinal plants. This signals the need to make significant efforts to raise public awareness about their conservation and sustainable use.

Abstract Background Ethiopia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, which combines richness in plant resources and cultures of human plant use. The people of Habru District of North Wollo Zone (Amhara Region, Ethiopia) have a long history of use of plant resources for various purposes including in traditional herbal remedy preparation and use. However, the district has not been adequately studied for its ethnobotanical resources and the associated knowledge. This study focused on human medicinal plants and their traditional uses in Habru District. The objective of the study was to document and analyze the plant species used by the local communities to treat human ailments along with the associated traditional knowledge and practices. Methodology The study was carried out in Habru District from June 2021 to December 2022. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions (one at the district level and 12 at the kebele/subdistrict level) and market surveys. A total of 388 informants (250 males and 138 females) were selected from all 13 kebeles within Habru District using systematic random sampling, and 42 key informants were purposively selected. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, informant consensus factor and fidelity level were applied for data analysis. Results The results provide insights into the medicinal plant diversity within Habru District, where 134 plant species in 110 genera and 54 families were documented, including 2 endemics, highlighting the district’s significance in biodiversity conservation and healthcare delivery. Disease prevalence analysis showed that gastrointestinal and parasitic ailments (ICF = 0.85), febrile diseases (ICF = 0.84), and culture-related conditions exhibit high informant consensus factors. Remedy preparation involves various plant parts, predominantly leaves (47.3%), followed by roots (22.1%), fruits (7.0%), and seeds (5.8%). Freshly harvested plant parts were frequently used (58.2%), while 24.7% involved both dried and fresh parts. Oral application (47.3%) and topical use (31.8%) are the major routes of remedy administration. The marketability of medicinal plants was evident, with 16.4% of the species reported as marketable, including Terminalia brownii Fresen. Myrtus communis L., Ruta chalepensis L., Olea europaea L. subsp. cuspidata (Wall. & G.Don) Cif., Allium sativum L. and Capsicum annuum L. Multipurpose plants such as Solanum somalense Franchet. (91.3% FL), Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex. Benth. (88.9% FL), and Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. (85.7% FL) exhibited notable healing potentials. Conclusion The current study underscores the intricate relationship between the local community and medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation and health care and acknowledging the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and ecosystem health. The results contribute to the development of sustainable conservation strategies, healthcare practices and the preservation of traditional knowledge, and highlight the interdependence of human societies and their natural environments. Community-based conservation initiatives with active participation of local communities are desirable for the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plant species and their habitats. Raising public awareness about the sustainable harvesting and utilization of marketed medicinal plants (e.g., Terminalia brownii Fresen.) that are under threat is also important to ensure their availability for future generations and contribution to socioeconomic development.

Background: Ethiopia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, which combines richness in plant resources and cultures of human plant use. The people of Habru District of North Wollo Zone (Amhara Region, Ethiopia) have a long history of use of plant resources for various purposes including in traditional herbal remedy preparation and use. However, the district has not been adequately studied for its ethnobotanical resources and the associated knowledge. This study focused on human medicinal plants and their traditional uses in Habru District. The objective of the study was to document and analyze the plant species used by the local communities to treat human ailments along with the associated traditional knowledge and practices. Methodology: The study was carried out in Habru District from June 2021 to December 2022. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions (one at the district level and 12 at the kebele/subdistrict level) and market surveys. A total of 388 informants (250 males and 138 females) were selected from all 13 kebeles within Habru District using systematic random sampling, and 42 key informants were purposively selected. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, informant consensus factor and fidelity level were applied for data analysis. Results: The results provide insights into the medicinal plant diversity within Habru District, where 134 plant species in 110 genera and 54 families were documented, including 2 endemics, highlighting the district's significance in biodiversity conservation and healthcare delivery. Disease prevalence analysis showed that gastrointestinal and parasitic ailments (ICF = 0.85), febrile diseases (ICF = 0.84), and culture-related conditions exhibit high informant consensus factors. Remedy preparation involves various plant parts, predominantly leaves (47.3%), followed by roots (22.1%), fruits (7.0%), and seeds (5.8%). Freshly harvested plant parts were frequently used (58.2%), while 24.7% involved both dried and fresh parts. Oral application (47.3%) and topical use (31.8%) are the major routes of remedy administration. The marketability of medicinal plants was evident, with 16.4% of the species reported as marketable, including Terminalia brownii Fresen. Myrtus communis L., Ruta chalepensis L., Olea europaea L. subsp. cuspidata (Wall. & G.Don) Cif., Allium sativum L. and Capsicum annuum L. Multipurpose plants such as Solanum somalense Franchet. (91.3% FL), Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex. Benth. (88.9% FL), and Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. (85.7% FL) exhibited notable healing potentials. Conclusion: The current study underscores the intricate relationship between the local community and medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation and health care and acknowledging the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and ecosystem health. The results contribute to the development of sustainable conservation strategies, healthcare practices and the preservation of traditional knowledge, and highlight the interdependence of human societies and their natural environments. Community-based conservation initiatives with active participation of local communities are desirable for the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plant species and their habitats. Raising public awareness about the sustainable harvesting and utilization of marketed medicinal plants (e.g., Terminalia brownii Fresen.) that are under threat is also important to ensure their availability for future generations and contribution to socioeconomic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based systems continue to play an essential role in healthcare, and their use by different backgrounds has been extensively documented. Rubia cordifolia L. (Manjistha), Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy (Shankapushpi), Piper longum L. (Pippali), Boerhavia diffusa L. (Rakta Punarnava) and Uraria picta (Jacq.) Desv. (Prishniparni) are traditionally used for treating several diseases particularly dysmenorrhea, diuresis, paralysis, jaundice, amenorrhea, skin disorders of many varieties, renal stone and blood detoxification, hypertension, neurodegenerative diseases, ulcers, high blood pressure, epilepsy, vomiting, diabetes, sun stroke and bleeding, chronic bronchitis, asthma, constipation, gonorrhea and paralysis. The present analysis aimed to provide a general review of the available literature on ethnomedical, status of traditional medicine, phytochemicals and their source of compounds with biological activity, supply and demand in herbal and pharma industries and new cultivation methods for traditional medicinal plants and their necessity in present scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants are the primary sources for the discovery of novelmedicines and the basis of ethnopharmacological research. While existing studies mainly focus on the chemical compounds, there is little research about the functions of other contents in medicinal plants. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are functionally active, nanoscale, membrane-bound vesicles secreted by almost all eukaryotic cells. Intriguingly, plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) also have been implicated to play an important role in therapeutic application. PDEVs were reported to have physical and chemical properties similar to mammalian EVs, which are rich in lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and pharmacologically active compounds. Besides these properties, PDEVs also exhibit unique advantages, especially intrinsic bioactivity, high stability, and easy absorption. PDEVs were found to be transferred into recipient cells and significantly affect their biological process involved in many diseases, such as inflammation and tumors. PDEVs also could offer unique morphological and compositional characteristics as natural nanocarriers by innately shuttling bioactive lipids, RNA, proteins, and other pharmacologically active substances. In addition, PDEVs could effectively encapsulate hydrophobic and hydrophilic chemicals, remain stable, and cross stringent biological barriers. Thus, this study focuses on the pharmacological action and mechanisms of PDEVs in therapeutic applications. We also systemically deal with facets of PDEVs, ranging from their isolation to composition, biological functions, and biotherapeutic roles. Efforts are also made to elucidate recent advances in re-engineering PDEVs applied as stable, effective, and non-immunogenic therapeutic applications to meet the ever-stringent demands. Considering its unique advantages, these studies not only provide relevant scientific evidence on therapeutic applications but could also replenish and inherit precious cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Traditional medicinal plants' potential in the management of diabetes. • Documented hypoglycaemic effects of C. roseus in diabetic-induced rats. • P. afra is a plant with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. • Economic advantages of cost-effective and accessible diabetic treatments in low-income countries. • Exploring the anti-diabetic activity of C.roseus: P.afra (1:1) in the context of their traditional use by South African healers. Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent non-communicable disease affecting individuals in developed and developing countries. However, low-income countries face significant challenges in managing diabetes due to socio-economic factors resulting in high mortality rates annually. The lack of adequate healthcare facilities and resources in low-income countries limits access to synthetic anti-hyperglycaemic medication, leading to an increased reliance on traditional medicinal plants to manage diabetes mellitus. One such traditional remedy is the combination of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don and Portulacaria afra Jacq. (1:1) used by traditional healers in South Africa to lower blood glucose levels and manage diabetes symptoms. Catharanthus roseus has demonstrated anti-hyperglycaemic activity in diabetic-induced rats, while previous studies have identified various pharmacological potentials of P. afra , including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. This review aims to explore the anti-hyperglycaemic potential of C. roseus and P. afra in the context of their traditional use by South African healers. By examining the existing literature, we aim to provide insights into the potential of these medicinal plants as alternative and complementary treatments for diabetes management. As the global burden of diabetes continues to increase, it is critical to explore cost-effective and accessible treatments, particularly in low-income countries where healthcare resources are limited. This review contributes to the understanding of traditional medicinal plants' potential in the management of diabetes and provides a basis for further research into their use as alternative treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sambucus javanica Blume is a Chinese native medicinal plant with high medicinal value. In this study, the MaxEnt model was used to explore the relationship between the geographical distribution of S. javanica and environmental factors, and to construct the distribution pattern of S. javanica under different climate scenarios. The results showed that the environmental conditions suitable for the distribution of S. javanica were as follows: precipitation in June ranged from 156.36 to 383.25 mm; solar radiation in December ranged from 6750.00 to 10,521.00 kJm−2day−1; isothermality ranged from 24.06 to 35.50; precipitation of warmest quarter ranged from 447.92 to 825.00 mm. Among them, precipitation and temperature were the key environmental factors affecting the distribution patterns of S. javanica. This plant could grow well mainly in two regions in China, covering a total area of 2.73 × 106 km2. The first region mainly consists of Guizhou, western Hubei, southeastern Chongqing, southwestern Hunan, northern Guangxi, and a small part of eastern Yunnan. The second region mainly consists of Zhejiang, southern Anhui, and northern Fujian. Under the future SSP126 and SSP585 scenarios, potentially suitable habitats in the eastern part of the potential distribution of S. javanica (Jiangxi, Fujian, Zhejiang, and Anhui) might be at risk of habitat fragmentation. Future climate change might have little effect on the distribution areas of S. javanica. But its suitable distribution has a tendency shift to higher altitude areas. Based on the result of this study, real-time monitoring of wild groups of S. javanica is now recommended to protect its genetic diversity. These findings are supposed to promote the effective conservation and utilization of S. javanica in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Burkholderia pseudomallei is a causative agent of melioidosis, a fatal infectious disease highly prevalent in the tropics where traditional medicinal plants are widely used for the treatment of various human ailments. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the in vitro antibacterial activity of common eligible herbs and medicinal plants against B. pseudomallei. Thermal and gastric stability, antibacterial spectrum, bactericidal activity, and cell cytotoxicity were also tested to verify the possible usage of these plants in the treatment of melioidosis. Results Eighteen eligible herbs and twenty-one medicinal plants were collected. Herb juices and aqueous plant samples extracted at different temperatures were prepared for antibacterial testing. A higher proportion of aqueous plant extracts (17/21; 80.9%) against B. pseudomallei was observed, in comparison with that of herb juices (8/18; 44.5%). Two herb juices and twelve aqueous plant extracts were selected for further tests. The juices of A. sativum and A. tuberosum decreased their antimicrobial activity when treated at higher temperatures whereas the aqueous plant extracts increased their antimicrobial activity when prepared at 70 and 100 °C. The herb juices showed a broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity than the aqueous plant extracts. All samples showed less cytotoxicity on the HT29, HepG2, and HEK293 cell lines. At the 2× minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), aqueous extracts of Blechnum orientale, Breynia fruticose, Psidium guajava, Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Rosa odorata, and Schima wallichii showed similar bactericidal activity to that of amoxicillin clavulanic acid. The antimicrobial activity of Mangifera indica, Punica granatum, and R. tomentosa remained under the stimulated gastric conditions. Conclusion Our data indicate that traditional medicinal plants prepared by decoction could be effectively used to treat melioidosis via the oral route. Further in vivo investigations are needed to explore other alternative therapies for the prevention and treatment of tested pathogenic bacterial species.

Medicinal plants are traditionally used for the treatment in human medicine. The antibacterial activity of ethanol extract of four plant species (Achillea millefolium L., Agrimonia eupatoria, Melissa officinalis and Tilia platyphyllos) applied in the traditional medicine in Slovakia were tested. Extracts of certain parts of these plants were tested in vitro against six bacterial species (Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Serratia rubidea) strains using the disc diffusion method and microbroth dilution method. Minimum inhibitory concentrations for the extracts against all the microorganisms were determined by serial dilutions. All the extracts demonstrated antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and partially against Gram-negative bacteria.

• Traditional medicines play an important role in primary health care provision. • 127 species are used as traditional medicines in the study area. • 19 species were recorded for the first time as sources of traditional medicines. • Some of the species if adequately explored could be instrumental in pharmaceutical products development. • It is essential to have conservation strategy for some of the species. Traditional medicines play an important role in health care provision in developing countries as primary therapies and/or as complementary medicines. The aim of this study was to document medicinal plants used in Gokwe South District in Zimbabwe. Forty six participants from 12 wards were interviewed between October 2020 and April 2021 using a semi-structured questionnaire. Ethnobotanical data including local names of the plants, plant parts used, medicinal uses, methods of preparation and administration were documented. The ethnomedicinal data were analysed using different quantitative indices including informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative frequency of citation (RFC) and use value (UV). One hundred and twenty seven plant species from 49 families were documented for treating and managing 23 medical categories. Gastro-intestinal disorders (60 citations), respiratory infections (47 citations), reproductive system and health (33 citations) and sexually transmitted infections (21 citations) were commonly treated with medicinal plants within the study area. Nineteen species were recorded for the first time as sources of traditional medicines with no prior record of being used as medicinal plants for any specific disease or ailment in the country. Trees (58.0%) were the main sources of traditional medicines, followed by shrubs (27.0%), herbs and climbers (10.0% and 5.0%, respectively). The most frequently used plant parts were roots (48.8%), followed by bark (37.8%) and leaves (34.6%). The variety of plants that are used to treat and manage human diseases and ailments in the study area emphasizes the importance that medicinal plants play in primary health care system of the rural people in Gokwe South District. Some of the plants used in the study area were characterized by high frequency of citation and use values, and species such as Xeroderris stuhlmannii (Taub.) Mendonça & E.P.Sousa and Zanthoxylum chalybeum Engl., if adequately explored could be instrumental in the discovery and development of health promoting, pharmaceutical products and drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common types of bone cancers among paediatric patients. Despite the advances made in surgery, chemo-, and radiotherapy, the mortality rate of metastatic osteosarcoma remains unchangeably high. The standard drug combination used to treat this bone cancer has remained the same for the last 20 years, and it produces many dangerous side effects. Through history, from ancient to modern times, nature has been a remarkable source of chemical diversity, used to alleviate human disease. The application of modern scientific technology to the study of natural products has identified many specific molecules with anti-cancer properties. This review describes the latest discovered anti-cancer compounds extracted from traditional medicinal plants, with a focus on osteosarcoma research, and on their cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. The presented compounds have proven to kill osteosarcoma cells by interfering with different pathways: apoptosis induction, stimulation of autophagy, generation of reactive oxygen species, etc. This wide variety of cellular targets confer natural products the potential to be used as chemotherapeutic drugs, and also the ability to act as sensitizers in drug combination treatments. The major hindrance for these molecules is low bioavailability. A problem that may be solved by chemical modification or nano-encapsulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shazalyana Azman,1,2,* Mahendran Sekar,1,* Srinivasa Reddy Bonam,3,* Siew Hua Gan,4 Suzana Wahidin,2 Pei Teng Lum,1 Shivsharan B Dhadde5 1Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, Malaysia; 2Bioengineering and Technology Section, Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Chemical & Bioengineering Technology, Alor Gajah, Melaka, 78000, Malaysia; 3Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe-Immunopathologie et Immunointervention Thérapeutique, Sorbonne Université, Université De Paris, Paris, France; 4School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway Selangor Darul Ehsan, 47500, Malaysia; 5D.S.T.S. Mandal’s College of Pharmacy, Solapur, India*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Mahendran SekarDepartment of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, No. 3 Jalan Greentown, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, MalaysiaTel +60163346653Fax +6052536634Email mahendransekar@unikl.edu.myAbstract: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract in which the numerous immune cells, including eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, T-lymphocytes, mast cells and epithelial lining play key roles. The numerous anti-asthmatic drugs are available in modern medicine to treat asthma, but they have several disadvantages, including side effects and the cost variations, which compromise treatment compliance. The literature review reveals that traditional herbal medicines have good potential as alternative treatment and management for asthma. However, communities hesitated to use the traditional herbal medicines due to lack of established mechanism of action about their anti-asthmatic potential. The present review aimed to summarise the information stated in the literature about the potential effect of traditional medicinal plants (TMPs) conferring protection against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma model. The literature search was conducted in database like PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect. After screening through the literature from 2011 to date, a total of 27 medicinal plants and two polyherbal extracts have been reported to be used as traditional herbal medicines and also utilised to be tested against OVA-induced asthma, were included. We found them to be an important alternative source of treatment for asthma, since some have comparable efficacies with drugs commonly used in the modern system against asthma. All the reported medicinal plants confirmed their traditional use against asthma or its related inflammation. The present review provides faith in traditional information and also offers new insight into the potential of natural products against asthma.Keywords: OVA-induced asthma, traditional medicinal plants, natural products, allergic asthma, inflammation, T-helper cells

Diabetes mellitus is becoming a major cause of concern throughout the world. Many people, especially in rural communities, use medicinal plants to treat the disease and its complications. This study aimed to document the medicinal plant species used to manage diabetes mellitus and traditional knowledge of local communities in Curup Tengah, Rejang Lebong district, Bengkulu, Indonesia. This study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire targeting 32 diabetic patients, and 2 traditional healers. Twenty women (58.8%) and 14 men used medicinal plants to manage the disease. Furthermore, 44 plant species belonging to 34 botanical families were found. The Fabaceae family (9.1%) contributes the highest number of medicinal plant (4 species) followed by Zingiberaceae (3 species) and Asteraceae (2 species). Leaves (38.63%), fruit (18.18%), and seeds (13.36%) were the predominant parts used to prepare the medicine through the extraction method. Documentation of medicinal plants used to treat diabetes as a foundation for subsequent scientific research, with a focus on plants with a high level of informant consensus. Plants with low UV levels, on the other hand, need bioactive screening to confirm their use for the condition. This could be interpreted as a sign of potential plants for the discovery of novel medications. Smallanthus sonchifolius and Anredera cordifolia are reported for the first time as being used in the traditional treatment of diabetes in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of urolithiasis in Middle East countries is predominantly high. Traditional medicinal plants play a role in the prevention and management of urolithiasis. The effect of Petroselinum crispum, rind of Citrus sinensis L., rind of Citrus limon L., Ammi visnaga (L.) LAM., Tamarindus indica L., Nigella sativa L., Cymbopogon proximus Hochst. ex A. Rich., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Hordeum vulgare L., and Cymbopogon schoenanthus (L.) Spreng. on calcium oxalate crystallization was investigated in-vitro. The antispasmodic activity on acetylcholine-induced contraction in rat ileum was also screened ex-vivo. A significant reduction in the mean diagonal of calcium oxalate crystals was observed for P. crispum, C. proximus, N. sativa, and C. limon (4.41, 4.71, 5.44, and 5.67 μm, respectively) compared to the negative control (12.19 μm). H. sabdariffa exhibited antinucleation effect however, P. crispum showed a marked inhibition of calcium oxalate aggregation at 10 mg/mL after 60 min compared to the negative control. A remarkable ex-vivo antispasmodic activity was observed for C. proximus, C. schoenanthus, and A. visnaga extracts. Our results provide scientific evidence for the traditional use of the studied plant-derived products as potential therapies for calcium oxalate urolithiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have been seen to possess the potential to be excellent biological matrices to serve as a basis for investigating the presence of promising therapeutic agents for cancer treatment. Several successful anti-cancer medicines - or their analogues - nowadays in use are plant derived and many more are under clinical trials. Under current circumstances, the purpose of this work was to test aqueous and ethanolic extracts of five aromatic and medicinal plants from arid zones on some tumor cell lines. These plants, Cymbopogon schoenanthus (L.) Spreng, Crithmum maritimum (L.) Spreng, Hammada scoparia (Pomel) Iljin, Retama raetam (Forssk.) and Zizyphus lotus (L.) Desf., widely used in Tunisian ethnomedicine, were assessed for their phenolic compounds, antioxidants and anticancer activities in aqueous and ethanol extracts. Total polyphenols, flavonoid and tannin contents were determined colorimetrically and some of these molecules were identified using RP-HPLC. A significant difference on phenolic contents and composition were found among the investigated plants. Cymbopogon schoenanthus was the richest in phenolic compounds (approx. 72%) with quercetine-3-o-rhamnoside (approx. 33%) as main contributor. For all the tested plants, the highest antioxidant capacity was detected in the ethanolic extracts rather than in the aqueous ones. The highest antiproliferative potential was observed for the ethanolic extracts. Hammada scoparia, Retama raetam and Zizyphus lotus exhibited important antiproliferative effect that reached 67% at a 1% extract concentration. Taken together, the present study supports the potential development of chemotherapeutic agents from, at least, four of the five studied Tunisian ethnomedicinal plants.

Generally, orchids highly depend on specific fungi for seed germination and subsequent seedling development in nature. For medicinal orchids, obtaining compatible fungi is prerequisite for imitation of wild cultivation and conservation. In this study, the two important traditional Chinese medicinal orchids, Pleione bulbocodioides and Bletilla striata , were studied to screen out effective fungi for seed germination and seedling development. P. bulbocodioides seeds germinated and formed protocorms in all fungal and control treatments, but seedlings only developed in fungal Serendipita officinale (SO) and S. indica (SI) treatments and nutrient-rich medium MS treatment. At 90 days after incubation, the percentages of seedlings were 34.83 ± 3.4% and 27.59 ± 3.5% in SO and SI treatments, which were significantly higher than the MS treatment (18.39 ± 2.0%; all P < 0.05). At this stage, most seedlings in SO and SI treatments bore two leaves (Stage 5), and pelotons inside the basal cells of seedlings were clearly observed. For B. striata , seeds germinated up to seedlings with or without fungus, but seedlings developed rapidly in SI treatment. At 90 days after incubation, the percentage of seedlings in SI treatment reached 77.90 ± 4.1%, but was significantly lower than the nutrient-poor medium OMA treatment (85.18 ± 3.7%; P < 0.01), however, the seedlings in SI treatment were stronger than the seedlings in OMA treatment. The results suggested that P. bulbocodioides rely on compatible fungi for seeds germinated up to seedlings, and fungus SO could effectively promote seed germination and support seedling development; while B. striata can germinate up to seedling without any fungus, but compatible fungus S. indica can greatly speed up seed germination and promote seedling development. We suggest that S. officinale and S. indica fungi can be used in conservation practices or imitation of wild cultivation of these two important medicinal orchids, respectively., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Yang, Li and Gao.)

Traditional medicinal plants are cardinal sources of new drug molecules for malaria treatment. The present study evaluates the antiplasmodial potential of erucic acid (EA) isolated from ethanolic whole plant extract of Thlaspi arvense (EWETA) and its synthetic methyl ester derivative (EA-OMe) and also confirms the in vivo efficacy of the crude extract. EA and EA-OMe exhibited considerable in vitro activity against chloroquine (CQ)-sensitive (IC 50 5.80 μg/ml and 6.25 μg/ml) and CQ-resistant (IC 50 6.07 µg/ml and 8.58 µg/ml) strains of P. falciparum , respectively. Both compounds were non-toxic to HeLa cells and normal dermal fibroblasts with high selectivity index. However, EA and EA-OMe exhibited moderate suppressive activity in vivo. Further, EWETA illustrated ED 50 <50 mg/kg in the suppressive test and prolonged the survival of treated mice in comparison to infected control. It also showed considerable preventive (500 mg/kg) and curative (100 mg/kg) activity with 91.75% and 91.93% chemo-suppression, respectively. Biochemical analysis also highlights the safety of EWETA to the liver and kidney function of the rodent host. It can be concluded that EA and EA-OMe are contributing to the activity of EWETA besides other components, which are being characterized. [Display omitted] • Erucic acid (EA) and its synthetic methyl ester derivative (EA-O-Me) were isolated from EWETA. • EA and EA-O-Me exhibited considerable in vitro activity against 3D7 and RKL-9 strains of P. falciparum. • Both compounds were non-toxic to HeLa cells and normal dermal fibroblasts with high selectivity index (SI >10). • The compounds exhibited moderate in vivo antimalarial activity, however, EWETA illustrated considerable efficacy. • Biochemical analysis also highlights the safety of EWETA to the liver and kidney function of the rodent host.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common types of bone cancers among paediatric patients. Despite the advances made in surgery, chemo-, and radiotherapy, the mortality rate of metastatic osteosarcoma remains unchangeably high. The standard drug combination used to treat this bone cancer has remained the same for the last 20 years, and it produces many dangerous side effects. Through history, from ancient to modern times, nature has been a remarkable source of chemical diversity, used to alleviate human disease. The application of modern scientific technology to the study of natural products has identified many specific molecules with anti-cancer properties. This review describes the latest discovered anti-cancer compounds extracted from traditional medicinal plants, with a focus on osteosarcoma research, and on their cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. The presented compounds have proven to kill osteosarcoma cells by interfering with different pathways: apoptosis induction, stimulation of autophagy, generation of reactive oxygen species, etc. This wide variety of cellular targets confer natural products the potential to be used as chemotherapeutic drugs, and also the ability to act as sensitizers in drug combination treatments. The major hindrance for these molecules is low bioavailability. A problem that may be solved by chemical modification or nano-encapsulation.

For decades, chronic diseases including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs) have plagued the world. Meanwhile, we have noticed a close association between CCVDs and vascular lesions, such as hypertension. More focus has been placed on TMPs and natural products with vasodilation and hypotension. TMPs with vasodilatory and hypotensive activities are mainly from Compositae, Lamiaceae, and Orchidaceae (such as V. amygdalina Del., T. procuinbens L., M. glomerata Spreng., K. galanga L., etc.) whereas natural products eliciting vasorelaxant potentials were primarily from flavonoids, phenolic acids and alkaloids (such as apigenin, puerarin, curcumin, sinomenine, etc.). Furthermore, the data analysis showed that the vasodilatory function of TMPs was mainly concerned with the activation of eNOS, while the natural products were primarily correlated with the blockage of calcium channel. Thus, TMPs will be used as alternative drugs and nutritional supplements, while natural products will be considered as potential therapies for CCVDs in the future. This study provides comprehensive and valuable references for the prevention and treatment of hypertension and CCVDs and sheds light on the further studies in this regard. However, since most studies are in vitro and preclinical, there is a need for more in-depth researches and clinical trials to understand the potential of these substances.

The concept of "pharmacophylogeny" was proposed by Peigen Xiao in the 1980s based on long-term studies of Chinese researchers since ancient times and especially the 1950s. The complicated relationships and connectivity between kinship of medicinal plants, their chemical profiles and therapeutic utilities are consistent goals of pharmacophylogeny studies, which benefit innovative drug R&D. In the present work, we reviewed the origin and a brief history of research in this field, as well as the status quo and recent progress of pharmacophylogeny. The concept "pharmacophylogenomics" is put forward to represent the expanding utility of pharmacophylogeny in botanical drug R&D. Pharmacophylogeny and pharmacophylogenomics are the synthesis of multiple disciplines, such as chemotaxonomy, plant morphology, plant biochemistry/molecular biology and omics, etc. Medicinal plants within the same phylogenetic groups may have the same or similar therapeutic compounds/effects, thus forming the core of pharmacophylogeny, which is the scientific law summed up from practice and applied to practice after refining and sublimation. In the past, pharmacophylogeny plays a big role in looking for alternative resources of imported drugs in China. At present, it continues to play an active role in expanding medicinal plant resources, quality control/identification of herbal medicines, as well as predicting the chemical constituents or active ingredients of herbal medicine and the identification and determination of chemical constituents. In the ongoing future, it will play a bigger role in the search for new drugs, sorting out, summarizing, and improving herbal medicine experiences, thus boosting the sustainable conservation and utilization of traditional/natural medicinal resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal herbs are potential sources of biomolecules and their analogues that have great relevance in the preparation of modern medicines. Calligonum crinitum, a perennial shrub growing in the United Arab Emirates, has been utilized in the study to validate the therapeutic properties exploited in the traditional medicinal system of UAE. The phytochemical screening of the plant employing different solvents of methanolics and ethyl-acetates, expressed varied proportions of monosaccharides and carbohydrates along with tannins and saponins, which are high potency molecules for therapeutic applications. The presence of total phenol and flavonoid contents derived from methanolic extracts indicates antioxidant potentials and the defense mechanisms of the plant. Proximate and mineral nutrient analysis validates the significance of the extracts with a high amount of carbohydrates and proteins along with significantly high amounts of Zn, Fe, Mn, Ca, Mg and K involved in various metabolic reactions. Similarly, the ABTS radical scavenging activity varied significantly (p < 0.05) and ranged from 10 to 160 µg GAE/g in the methanolic extract. DPPH free radical scavenging activity exhibited a significantly high DPPH activity in methanolic extracts with free radical scavenging activity of 72%. Hydroxyl radicals scavenging activity was also found to be high in the Calligonum extracts along with SOD (49–83%, compared to the standard GAE 37–58%). Nitric oxide scavenging was also found to be high in the extracts, thereby decreasing the content of NO. Thus, our results confirm that the derived extracts have potential antioxidants, and this legitimizes their use in folkloric medicine. These results are highly significant as they can pave the way for future scientific validation of the traditional knowledge of this important medicinal plant.

Abstract Human tuberculosis (TB) is amongst the oldest and deadliest human bacterial diseases that pose major health, social and economic burden at a global level. Current regimens for TB treatment are lengthy, expensive and ineffective to emerging drug resistant strains. Thus, there is an urgent need for identification and development of novel TB drugs and drug regimens with comprehensive and specific mechanisms of action. Many medicinal plants are traditionally used for TB treatment. While some of their phytochemical composition has been elucidated, their mechanisms of action are not well understood. Insufficient knowledge on Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) biology and the complex nature of its infection limit the effectiveness of current screening-based methods used for TB drug discovery. Nonetheless, application of metabolomics tools within the ‘omics’ approaches, could provide an alternative method of elucidating the mechanism of action of medicinal plants. Metabolomics aims at high throughput detection, quantification and identification of metabolites in biological samples. Changes in the concentration of specific metabolites in a biological sample indicate changes in the metabolic pathways. In this paper review and discuss novel methods that involve application of metabolomics to drug discovery and the understanding of mechanisms of action of medicinal plants with anti-TB activity. Current knowledge on TB infection, anti-TB drugs and mechanisms of action are also included. We further highlight metabolism of M. tuberculosis and the potential drug targets, as well as current approaches in the development of anti-TB drugs.

Abstract In recent years, studies of traditional medicinal plants have gradually increased worldwide because the natural sources and variety of such plants allow them to complement modern pharmacological approaches. As computer technology has developed, in silico approaches such as virtual screening and network analysis have been widely utilized in efforts to elucidate the pharmacological basis of the functions of traditional medicinal plants. In the process of new drug discovery, the application of virtual screening and network pharmacology can enrich active compounds among the candidates and adequately indicate the mechanism of action of medicinal plants, reducing the cost and increasing the efficiency of the whole procedure. In this review, we first provide a detailed research routine for examining traditional medicinal plants by in silico techniques and elaborate on their theoretical principles. We also survey common databases, software programs and website tools that can be used for virtual screening and pharmacological network construction. Furthermore, we conclude with a simple example that illustrates the whole methodology, and we present perspectives on the development and application of this in silico methodology to reveal the pharmacological basis of the effects of traditional medicinal plants.

Caralluma flava is a perennial, succulent edible plant distributed in the hillsides of the United Arab Emirates. In order to validate its use in the traditional system as an edible and medicinal source, we evaluated the antioxidant and in vitro free-radical-scavenging properties of its ethanol extract. The antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated in vitro by 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS+), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide radical scavenging assays. The antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidant contents (total reduced glutathione, and Vitamin E and Vitamin C) in the extracts were also determined. The total phenolics content of the plant extract was 10.14 mg/g and the flavonoid content was 4.13 mg/g. The results showed a positive linear correlation between these phytochemicals and the free-radical-scavenging activities. The C. flava extract exhibited significant radical-scavenging properties in the ABTS(+•), DPPH(•), hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide radical assays. The study revealed that C. flava could be considered an excellent source of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. The results indicate that the plant extract has potent free-radical-scavenging activity and ability to prevent radical chain reactions. Based on the results obtained, C. flava seems to be a very promising species for further investigation in order to identify the compounds responsible for its biological activity.

Since human civilization, people have been dependent on nature for their daily needs, and chiefly on plants as a source of medicine. This reliance lead to the development of an exclusive system of knowledge known as ethnobotany, which consists of the relationship between plants and their use for various diseases and disorders by the trial and error method. The current review study is an attempt to gather the ethnomedicinal plants used in Maharashtra to treat multiple diseases and disorders. From various revealing literature sources, information has been compiled, mentioning the plant's family, parts used, method of preparation, etc. In Maharashtra, around 417 plant species belonging to 101 families have been used for primary healthcare. Plants from families like Acanthaceae, Asteraceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Liliaceae, Malvaceae, and Poaceae were most frequently utilized in Maharashtra. The people of Maharashtra use these medicinal plants as a single dose or in combination with others. This review article includes 195 medicinal plants form various plant families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of traditional medicinal plants among teenagers are quite low, that caused by the information is very limited as well as the difficulty of obtaining real-life examples of traditional medicinal plants. Those inspired us to cooperate with SMAN 1 Pondidaha District Konawe (Sulawesi Tenggara) in an effort to provide solutions to these problems. SMAN 1 Pondidaha has vacant land large enough. Through IbM program (Ipteks bagi Masyarakat, science and technology for the People) Ministry or Research and Technology and Higher Education, we made thematic landscape in SMAN 1 Pondidaha locations using traditional medicinal plants as fillers garden or park. The method was conducted on the survey and measurement, search species of plants data that suitable with the design, preparation of location and soil for planting of medicinal plants, labeling and maintenance. The results showed there are 6 types of medicinal plants are required for the design, namely 1) medicinal plants such as jarak (Jatropha curcas), jarak merah (J. gossypifolia), jarak tintir (J. multifida) and bougainvillea (Bougenvillea spectabilis), 2) medicinal plants and aesthetics, for example kembang sepatu (Hisbiscus rosasinensis), kembang nusa endah (Mussaenda philippia), tapak dara (Catharanthus roseus), 3) Barrier crops include gandaruso (Justisia gandarusso), Ashoka (Saraca asoca), teh-tehan (Duranti erecta), kroton (Codiacum variegatum), mangkokan (Notophanax scutellarium), 4) Vertical garden Plants include lavender (Lavendula angustifolia), selasih (Ocium sp.), pancawarna (Hydrongea macrophylla), cabe hias (Solanum pseudo-capsicum), 5) Shade plants, for example pule (Alstonia scholaris), ketapang (Terminalia catappa), kelapa (Cocus nucifera), kamboja (Plumeria sp.), beringin (Ficus benjamina) and 6) Cover crops such as bunga kriminil (Althenantera amoena), rumput gajah (Pennisetum purpureum), rumput jepang (Zoysia japonica). These plants are used by the people as a remedy for various diseases.

Medicinal plants are the primary sources for the discovery of novel medicines and the basis of ethnopharmacological research. While existing studies mainly focus on the chemical compounds, there is little research about the functions of other contents in medicinal plants. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are functionally active, nanoscale, membrane-bound vesicles secreted by almost all eukaryotic cells. Intriguingly, plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) also have been implicated to play an important role in therapeutic application. PDEVs were reported to have physical and chemical properties similar to mammalian EVs, which are rich in lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and pharmacologically active compounds. Besides these properties, PDEVs also exhibit unique advantages, especially intrinsic bioactivity, high stability, and easy absorption. PDEVs were found to be transferred into recipient cells and significantly affect their biological process involved in many diseases, such as inflammation and tumors. PDEVs also could offer unique morphological and compositional characteristics as natural nanocarriers by innately shuttling bioactive lipids, RNA, proteins, and other pharmacologically active substances. In addition, PDEVs could effectively encapsulate hydrophobic and hydrophilic chemicals, remain stable, and cross stringent biological barriers. Thus, this study focuses on the pharmacological action and mechanisms of PDEVs in therapeutic applications. We also systemically deal with facets of PDEVs, ranging from their isolation to composition, biological functions, and biotherapeutic roles. Efforts are also made to elucidate recent advances in re-engineering PDEVs applied as stable, effective, and non-immunogenic therapeutic applications to meet the ever-stringent demands. Considering its unique advantages, these studies not only provide relevant scientific evidence on therapeutic applications but could also replenish and inherit precious cultural heritage., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wu, Wu, Zhang, Han, Liu, Yu, Chen and Chen.)

Ｙａｏ ｎａｔｉｏｎａｌｉｔｙ ｈａｓ ａ ｌｏｎｇ ｈｉｓｔｏｒｙ ａｎｄ ｓｐｌｅｎｄｉｄ ｃｕｌｔｕｒｅꎬ ｗｈｉｃｈ ｉｓ ｄｉｓｔｒｉｂｕｔｅｄ ｉｎ ｐｒｏｖｉｎｃｅｓ ａｎｄ ｒｅｇｉｏｎｓ ｓｕｃｈ ａｓ Ｇｕａｎｇｘｉꎬ Ｈｕｎａｎꎬ Ｇｕｉｚｈｏｕꎬ Ｙｕｎｎａｎ Ｐｒｏｖｉｎｃｅｓ. Ｈｏｎｇ￣Ｙａｏ ｉｓ ａ ｂｒａｎｃｈ ｏｆ ｔｈｅ Ｙａｏ ｎａｔｉｏｎａｌｉｔｙꎬ ｎａｍｅｄ ｆｏｒ ｍａｎｙ ｂｒｉｇｈｔ ｒｅｄ ｐａｔｔｅｒｎｓ ｏｎ ｗｏｍｅｎ ｃｌｏｔｈｉｎｇ. Ｉｔｓ ｄｉｓｔｉｎｃｔｉｖｅ ｎａｔｕｒａｌ ｃｏｇｎｉｔｉｏｎ ｅｎｒｉｃｈｅｓ ｏｕｒ ｔｒａｄｉｔｉｏｎａｌ ｃｕｌｔｕｒａｌ ｋｎｏｗｌｅｄｇｅ ｂａｓｅ. Ｔｈｅｉｒ ｌｉｖｉｎｇ ｃｕｓｔｏｍｓ ａｒｅ ｆｕｌｌ ｏｆ ｎａｔｉｏｎａｌ ｃｈａｒａｃｔｅｒｉｓｔｉｃｓꎬ ａｎｄ ｔｈｅｉｒ ｕｓｅ ｏｆ ｐｌａｎｔｓꎬ ｅｓｐｅｃｉａｌｌｙ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｐｌａｎｔｓꎬ ｉｓ ｄｉｆｆｅｒｅｎｔ ｆｒｏｍ ｔｈｏｓｅ ｏｆ ｏｔｈｅｒ ｎａｔｉｏｎａｌｉｔｉｅｓ. Ａｎ ｃｌａｓｓｉｃａｌ ｅｔｈｎｏｂｏｔａｎｉｃａｌ ｉｎｖｅｓｔｉｇａｔｉｏｎ ｏｎ ｔｒａｄｉｔｉｏｎａｌ ｋｎｏｗｌｅｄｇｅ ｏｆ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｐｌａｎｔｓ ｗａｓ ｉｍｐｌｅｍｅｎｔｅｄ ａｍｏｎｇ Ｈｏｎｇ￣Ｙａｏ ｃｏｍｍｕｎｉｔｉｅｓ ｉｎ Ｌｏｎｇｓｈｅｎｇꎬ Ｇｕａｎｇｘｉ. Ｔｈｅ ｉｎｖｅｎｔｏｒｙ ｗａｓ ｇｉｖｅｎ ｂａｓｅｄ ｏｎ ｔｈｅｉｒ ｓｃｉｅｎｔｉｆｉｃ ｎａｍｅꎬ Ｃｈｉｎｅｓｅ ｎａｍｅꎬ ｌｏｃａｌ ｎａｍｅꎬ ｕｓａｇｅ ａｎｄ ｕｓｉｎｇ ｐａｒｔｓ. Ａｎｄ ｔｒａｄｉｔｉｏｎａｌ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｐｌａｎｔｓ ｗｅｒｅ ｃｏｍｐａｒｅｄ ｗｉｔｈ ｔｈａｔ ｉｎ Ｃｈｉｎｅｓｅ Ｐｈａｒｍａｃｏｐｏｅｉａ. Ｔｈｅ ｒｅｓｕｌｔｓ ｓｈｏｗｅｄ ｔｈａｔ ａ ｔｏｔａｌ ｏｆ ９５ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｐｌａｎｔ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓ ｂｅｌｏｎｇｉｎｇ ｔｏ ８３ ｇｅｎｅｒａ ａｎｄ ５７ ｆａｍｉ￣ ｌｉｅｓ ａｒｅ ｒｅｃｏｒｄｅｄ. Ｒｏｓａｃｅａｅ ａｎｄ Ｌｉｌｉａｃｅａｅ ａｒｅ ｔｈｅ ｍｏｓｔ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓꎬ ｗｈｉｃｈ ｃｏｎｔａｉｎ ｓｅｖｅｎ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓ ｒｅｓｐｅｃｔｉｖｅｌｙ. Ｔｈａｔ ｒｅｖｅａｌｓ ｔｈｅ ｄｉｖｅｒｓｉｔｙ ｏｆ ｔｒａｄｉｔｉｏｎａｌ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｐｌａｎｔｓ. Ｔｈｅｒｅ ａｒｅ ４１ ｐｌａｎｔｓ ｂｅｌｏｎｇ ｔｏ ｔｈｅ ｗｈｏｌｅ ｈｅｒｂ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎｅꎬ ａｃｃｏｕｎｔｉｎｇ ｆｏｒ ４３.１６％ ｏｆ ｔｈｅ ｔｏｔａｌ. Ｔｗｅｎｔｙ￣ｔｈｒｅｅ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓ ａｒｅ ｔｈｅ ｒｏｏｔ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎｅꎬ ａｃｃｏｕｎｔｉｎｇ ｆｏｒ ２４.２１％ ｏｆ ｔｈｅ ｔｏｔａｌꎬ ａｎｄ １３ ｐｌａｎｔｓ ａｒｅ ｌｅａｆ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎｅꎬ ａｃｃｏｕｎｔｉｎｇ ｆｏｒ １３.６８％. Ｐａｒｔ ｕｓｅｄ ｉｓ ｇｉｖｅｎ ｐｒｉｏｒｉｔｙ ｔｏ ｗｉｔｈ ｗｈｏｌｅ ｐｌａｎｔｓ ａｎｄ ｒｏｏｔｓ. Ｒｈｅｕｍａｔｉｃ ｄｒｕｇｓ ａｒｅ ｔｈｅ ｌａｒｇｅｓｔ ｐｒｏｐｏｒｔｉｏｎꎬ ｕｐ ｔｏ ２３.４７％. Ｔｈｉｓ ｍａｙ ｂｅ ｒｅｌａｔｅｄ ｔｏ ｔｈｅｉｒ ｌｉｖｉｎｇ ｅｎｖｉｒｏｎｍｅｎｔ. Ｃｏｍｐａｒｅｄ ｗｉｔｈ Ｃｈｉｎｅｓｅ Ｐｈａｒｍａｃｏｐｏｅ- ｉａꎬ ｔｈｅｒｅ ａｒｅ ７１ ｐｌａｎｔ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓ ｗｈｉｃｈ ｎｏｔ ｂｅ ｉｎｃｌｕｄｅｄ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ Ｃｈｉｎｅｓｅ Ｐｈａｒｍａｃｏｐｏｅｉａꎬ ａｎｄ １７ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓ ａｒｅ ｉｎｃｌｕｄｅｄ ｂｕｔ ｈａｖｅ ｄｉｆｆｅｒｅｎｔ ｅｆｆｅｃｔｓꎬ ｓｅｖｅｎ ｓｐｅｃｉｅｓ ａｒｅ ｉｎｃｌｕｄｅｄ ａｎｄ ｈａｖｅ ｓｉｍｉｌａｒ ｅｆｆｅｃｔｓ. Ｔｈｉｓ ｐｒｏｖｉｄｅｓ ａ ｒｅｆｅｒｅｎｃｅ ｆｏｒ ｔｈｅ ｒｅｓｅａｒｃｈ ａｎｄ ｄｅｖｅｌｏｐｍｅｎｔ ｏｆ ｎｅｗ Ｃｈｉｎｅｓｅ Ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎｅ. Ｔｈｅ ｄｉｓｃｕｓｓｉｏｎ ｏｎ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｖａｌｕｅꎬ ｒｅｓｏｕｒｃｅ ｓｉｔｕａｔｉｏｎ ａｎｄ ｃｕｌｔｕｒａｌ ｈｅｒｉｔａｇｅ ａｂｏｕｔ ｔｒａｄｉｔｉｏｎａｌ ｍｅｄｉｃｉｎａｌ ｐｌａｎｔｓ ｉｓ ｓｈｏｗｎ ａｔ ｔｈｅ ｅｎｄ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnobotanical study of traditional medicinal plants used by local people of Kondala Woreda was conducted from September 2016 to June 2017. The aim of the study was to collect, identify, describe, compile and document medicinal plant species used by the local people for the treatments of human and livestock ailments. A total of 49 informants from seven kebeles were selected. A total of 64 plant species were collected. Out of these, 78% of medicinal plant species were used as cure for human ailments, 12% of species for livestock and 10% of species for the treatment of both human and livestock. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves and roots. In the study area, there are threats to medicinal plants and firewood was ranked first by selected key informant followed by, agricultural expansion. Results indicated that Viciafaba is most effective in treating stomach ache while Cordia africana is used as multipurpose medicinal plants. Majority of the 64 medicinal plants that were cited by informants, (57.8%) were used to treat a specific ailment. Thus, the community should conserve and manage these medicinal plant species before they become extinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic bacteria live in plant tissues which utilized in plant protection against phytopathogens. This study aims to investigate the diversity of endophytic bacteria from the leaves of traditional medicinal plants that has anti-phytopathogens properties. Isolation of endophytic bacteria was done by spread plate method. The bacteria were characterised by Gram staining and the 16S rRNA gene analysis. Further screening of anti-phytopathogen activity used disc diffusion method for Ralstonia solanacearum, Xanthomonas campestris, Fusarium oxysporum, and Sclerotium rolfsii. All togethers, sixteen isolates of endophytic bacteria from the leaves of eight medicinal plants species were obtained. Fourteen isolates had an anti-phytopathogen (with eight isolates against R. solanacearum, seven isolates against X. campestris, nine isolates against F. oxysporum, and five isolates against S. rolfsii). From the 14 isolates identified, phylum Firmicutes were dominant (64.3%), followed by Proteobacteria (28.6%), and Actinobacteria (7.1%). Phylum Firmicutes consists of Bacillus indicus (BJF1, TCF1, and MCF2), Bacillus pumilus (CAF4), Bacillus sp. (CAF1), Bacillus subtilis (AAF2, MCF1, CAF3, and MCF3); phylum Proteobacteria consists of Pantoea agglomerans (CAF2), Pantoea stewartii (AAF4), Pseudomonas oryzihabitans (AAF3), and Pseudomonas psychrotolerans (AAF1); and phylum Actinobacteria consists of Kocuria kristinae (CSF1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

publisher‐imprint‐name Springer volume‐issue‐count 1 issue‐article‐count 0 issue‐toc‐levels 0 issue‐pricelist‐year 2018 issue‐copyright‐holder The Author(s) issue‐copyright‐year 2018 article‐contains‐esm No article‐numbering‐style Unnumbered article‐registration‐date‐year 2018 article‐registration‐date‐month 8 article‐registration‐date‐day 29 article‐toc‐levels 0 toc‐levels 0 volume‐type Regular journal‐product ArchiveJournal numbering‐style Unnumbered article‐grants‐type OpenChoice metadata‐grant OpenAccess abstract‐grant OpenAccess bodypdf‐grant OpenAccess bodyhtml‐grant OpenAccess bibliography‐grant OpenAccess esm‐grant OpenAccess online‐first false pdf‐file‐reference BodyRef/PDF/40169_2018_Article_208.pdf target‐type OnlinePDF issue‐type Regular article‐type ReviewPaper journal‐subject‐primary Medicine & Public Health journal‐subject‐secondary Medicine/Public Health, general journal‐subject‐collection Medicine --> Human tuberculosis (TB) is amongst the oldest and deadliest human bacterial diseases that pose major health, social and economic burden at a global level. Current regimens for TB treatment are lengthy, expensive and ineffective to emerging drug resistant strains. Thus, there is an urgent need for identification and development of novel TB drugs and drug regimens with comprehensive and specific mechanisms of action. Many medicinal plants are traditionally used for TB treatment. While some of their phytochemical composition has been elucidated, their mechanisms of action are not well understood. Insufficient knowledge on Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) biology and the complex nature of its infection limit the effectiveness of current screening‐based methods used for TB drug discovery. Nonetheless, application of metabolomics tools within the 'omics' approaches, could provide an alternative method of elucidating the mechanism of action of medicinal plants. Metabolomics aims at high throughput detection, quantification and identification of metabolites in biological samples. Changes in the concentration of specific metabolites in a biological sample indicate changes in the metabolic pathways. In this paper review and discuss novel methods that involve application of metabolomics to drug discovery and the understanding of mechanisms of action of medicinal plants with anti‐TB activity. Current knowledge on TB infection, anti‐TB drugs and mechanisms of action are also included. We further highlight metabolism of M. tuberculosis and the potential drug targets, as well as current approaches in the development of anti‐TB drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate antibacterial potentiality, pharmacognostic characteristics and quality control parameters including heavy metals, like lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) accumulation in the aerial parts of an aquatic herb, Monochoria hastata (L.) Solms. Methods: Antibacterial assay was done by agar well diffusion method. Pharmacognostic studies like morpho-anatomical and physicochemical analyses were carried out for organoleptic, microscopic and macroscopic evaluations of living aerial parts, and powder microscopy, fluorescence, proximate and elemental analysis of the dried powder sample. Elements and heavy metals contents were determined by carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulphur / oxygen (CHNS/O) analyzer and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), respectively. Results: M. hastata (L.) Solms aerial parts showed antibacterial activity against gastrointestinal and topical pathogens. It exhibited an amphistomatic and hydromorphic anatomical characters. The distinguishing features were the presence of stomata in upper and lower epidermis, broad air chambers, cuticle, collateral vascular bundles, sclereidal fibres, pitted tracheids, pitted vessels, calcium oxalate crystals and annular vessels in leaf. The powder sample contained very less amount of acid insoluble ash than water soluble ash and complete absence of foreign organic matter. Carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and sulfur (CHNS) ratio was 33:6:5:1 and lead content was lesser than the recommended upper limit though the arsenic content was higher than the permissible upper limit. Conclusions: Though the plant has traditionally been used as a potent Ethnomedicinal herb to cure boils, gastritis, hepatopathy and as laxative, but no such evaluation of pharmacognostic identity and quality parameters have been done so far. This is the first report on its pharmacognostic characters and quality control issues like heavy metal accumulation and physicochemical parameters for future use as powder drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caralluma flava is a perennial, succulent edible plant distributed in the hillsides of the United Arab Emirates. In order to validate its use in the traditional system as an edible and medicinal source, we evaluated the antioxidant and in vitro free-radical-scavenging properties of its ethanol extract. The antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated in vitro by 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS+), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide radical scavenging assays. The antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidant contents (total reduced glutathione, and Vitamin E and Vitamin C) in the extracts were also determined. The total phenolics content of the plant extract was 10.14 mg/g and the flavonoid content was 4.13 mg/g. The results showed a positive linear correlation between these phytochemicals and the free-radical-scavenging activities. The C. flava extract exhibited significant radical-scavenging properties in the ABTS(+•), DPPH(•), hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide radical assays. The study revealed that C. flava could be considered an excellent source of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. The results indicate that the plant extract has potent free-radical-scavenging activity and ability to prevent radical chain reactions. Based on the results obtained, C. flava seems to be a very promising species for further investigation in order to identify the compounds responsible for its biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on traditional medicinal plants (TMPs) found in the South Pacific that holds potential for the insect controls have been reviewed. Few TMPs are known to have insecticidal properties, however many of those are still unknown in the South Pacific. The information on plants were collected using online databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Springer Open in order to confirm the studies that support the insecticidal properties of plants present in the South Pacific. The following study confirmed that there is a potential for the selected TMPs suggesting enough evidence for their usage in the insecticidal activities. These plants would represent an alternative in crop protection due to its novel, safe and eco-friendly substitutes for its effective insecticidal properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]