RESUMO
Medicinal plants represent an important source of bioactive compounds whose composition and biological activity are strongly influenced by geographical origin and extraction conditions. In this study, six medicinal plants traditionally used in south-eastern Serbia (Galium verum, Filipendula vulgaris, Lythrum salicaria, Sideritis montana, Teucrium chamaedrys, and Teucrium montanum) were investigated for their phytochemical composition and antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and antimicrobial activities. Aqueous and 40% ethanol extracts were prepared and analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), followed by HPLC-DAD profiling of individual polyphenolic compounds. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power assays, antihyperglycemic activity by α-glucosidase inhibition, and antimicrobial activity by the microdilution method against selected bacterial and fungal strains. L. salicaria exhibited the highest TPC (113.56-119.09 mg GAE/g DW), while F. vulgaris showed the highest TFC (65.74-66.31 mg RE/g DW). HPLC analysis revealed notable levels of ferulic acid in L. salicaria ethanol extract (39.12 mg/g DW), as well as rutin, luteolin, and myricetin in several species. Ethanol extracts generally demonstrated stronger antioxidant activity, with L. salicaria showing the highest DPPH (378.60 µM TE/g) and reducing power (684.06 µM TE/g), while its aqueous extract exhibited the highest ABTS activity (3621.93 µM TE/g). Strong antihyperglycemic activity was observed for F. vulgaris extracts (100% α-glucosidase inhibition). Antimicrobial assays revealed higher sensitivity of Gram-positive bacteria, particularly Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, with F. vulgaris and L. salicaria extracts showing the strongest effects. These findings highlight the significant influence of plant species and extraction solvent on bioactivity and support the potential of selected Serbian medicinal plants as sources of multifunctional natural bioactive compounds.
Assuntos
Anti-Infecciosos , Antioxidantes , Hipoglicemiantes , Compostos Fitoquímicos , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Antioxidantes/química , Hipoglicemiantes/farmacologia , Hipoglicemiantes/química , Plantas Medicinais/química , Sérvia , Anti-Infecciosos/farmacologia , Anti-Infecciosos/química , Extratos Vegetais/química , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/química , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais , Flavonoides/química , Testes de Sensibilidade Microbiana , Fenóis/química , Inibidores de Glicosídeo Hidrolases/farmacologia , Inibidores de Glicosídeo Hidrolases/química , Cromatografia Líquida de Alta PressãoRESUMO
Natural products have acquired prominence in scientific study and medicine owing to their increasing significance in the treatment of human ailments. Manihot esculenta Crantz (cassava) is a fundamental agricultural food crop, widely utilized for its starchy tubers. Cassava leaves are rich in essential components such as calcium, iron, protein, and vitamins A, B, C and K. The leaves have several secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and immune-modulatory properties. These secondary metabolites may safeguard cells against oxidative stress, chronic diseases, viral ailments, cardiovascular conditions, and specific cancer kinds. These bioactive compounds play a vital role in mitigating oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and immune dysregulation-key factors implicated in cancer initiation and progression-thus warranting comprehensive investigation of cassava leaves within this framework. Despite their rich phytochemical composition, the nutritional and medicinal significance of cassava leaves remains underexplored. This review aims to summarize the phytochemical constituents of cassava leaves and elucidate their potential health-promoting translational values and anticancer properties. By integrating in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence, the review highlights the molecular mechanisms of cassava leaf phytochemicals underlying their anticancer effects and discusses translational implications, existing research gaps, and future directions for experimental and clinical studies.
Assuntos
Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos , Manihot , Compostos Fitoquímicos , Extratos Vegetais , Folhas de Planta , Folhas de Planta/química , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/análise , Humanos , Manihot/química , Valor Nutritivo , Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/química , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Neoplasias/tratamento farmacológico , Plantas Medicinais/química , Flavonoides/análise , Flavonoides/farmacologiaRESUMO
Hairy root cultures, generated via Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated transformation, are a major advance in plant biotechnology. They exhibit genetic stability, autonomous growth without exogenous phytohormones, and sustained high-yield production of bioactive secondary metabolites. These systems have applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics. Notable metabolites include vincristine from Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don, withanolides from Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, and ginsenosides from Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, displaying anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective activities. Despite these advantages, challenges such as suboptimal yields in certain species, inefficient transformation protocols, and complex regulatory frameworks limit industrial adoption. To address this, a systematic review was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Data were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using terms including "hairy root culture," "secondary metabolite biosynthesis," and "elicitation strategies." The review included experimental studies on medicinal plant species capable of metabolite production via hairy roots, excluding theoretical studies and non-medicinal plants. The review pursued five primary objectives: (1) to compile a comprehensive inventory of medicinal plant species utilized in hairy root research; (2) to critically evaluate elicitation methods for enhancing metabolite production; (3) to examine current challenges related to scale-up of hairy root cultures for industrial application; (4) to identify actionable strategies to overcome existing limitations; and (5) to highlight the pharmaceutical properties of secondary metabolites derived from hairy roots. Empirical findings indicate that elicitors-such as jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, and emerging nanomaterials-significantly enhance metabolite accumulation. Molecular tools further optimize biosynthetic pathways. Nevertheless, species-specific constraints and unharmonized regulatory guidelines continue to impede commercialization. Integration of genetic engineering, bioprocess optimization, and regulatory science is essential to fully exploit the biotechnological potential of hairy root culture systems for pharmaceutical development.
Assuntos
Biotecnologia , Raízes de Plantas , Plantas Medicinais , Metabolismo Secundário , Plantas Medicinais/metabolismo , Plantas Medicinais/genética , Biotecnologia/métodos , Raízes de Plantas/metabolismo , Raízes de Plantas/genética , Agrobacterium/genética , Plantas Geneticamente Modificadas/metabolismoRESUMO
This study explored the potential of plant-derived immune nanoparticles for enhancing the immunity, growth, and disease resistance of Penaeus monodon against Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection in sustainable aquaculture systems. Multi-metallic immune nanoparticles were synthesized via a green route using aqueous extracts from five Bangladeshi medicinal plants - Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Amloki (Emblica officinalis), Dumur (Ficus racemosa), Pepe (Carica papaya), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). In the synthesis process, 10 mL of each plant extract was added to 100 mL of 1 mM metal nitrate solution (AgNO3, CuSO4, ZnSO4, FeCl3, and others) and maintained at a consistent 70 °C for 60 min. The reaction mixture exhibited a visible color shift from pale yellow to brown, confirming nanoparticle formation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses revealed spherical nanoparticles with a stable morphology and a size range of 29-84 nm. Multi-elemental profiling confirmed the presence of silver as the dominant component, with zinc, copper, iron, and trace elements supplemented by organic phytochemical capping derived from the plant extracts. Complementary characterizations using FTIR, GC-MS, ICP-OES, and XRD validated the presence of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, and high crystallinity of the nanoparticles. A 42-day feeding trial was conducted with 3000 post-larval P. monodon, divided into six treatment groups comprising control and nanoparticle-supplemented diets at 0, 25, 50, and 100 µg/g feed concentrations. Each treatment was triplicated with 100 shrimp per tank (100 L) under optimal water quality conditions (temperature 28-32 °C, salinity 25-30 ppt, pH 7.8-8.3, DO > 5.0 mg/L). Growth, immunity, and survival were assessed before and after V. parahaemolyticus challenge. The results demonstrated that shrimp fed diets enriched with Dumur-derived zinc nanoparticles (DuZnNPs) achieved the highest survival rate (96 %), weight gain (24 %), and improved immune biomarkers - lysozyme (40 U/mL), bactericidal activity (80 %), phenoloxidase activity (32 U/mL), and total hemocyte count (4 × 106 cells/mL). DuZnNPs also reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α (-56 %) and IL-1ß (-52 %) while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 (+46 %). Immune-related genes including ß-actin, PmIRF, PmVago1-5, ProPO, and Penaeidin were upregulated by 2.7-7.8-fold, whereas AmAgNPs maintained 85 % post-challenge survival compared with 30 % in the control. No toxicity symptoms or mortality increases were detected, and residual nanoparticle concentrations in rearing water remained below safety thresholds. Overall, this work confirmed that green-synthesized, multi-metallic, plant-derived nanoparticles significantly enhanced immune performance, growth, and pathogen resistance in P. monodon, providing an eco-friendly alternative to antibiotics and a practical approach for sustainable shrimp aquaculture.
Assuntos
Nanopartículas Metálicas , Nanopartículas , Penaeidae , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Animais , Penaeidae/imunologia , Penaeidae/microbiologia , Penaeidae/efeitos dos fármacos , Penaeidae/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Extratos Vegetais/química , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Plantas Medicinais/química , Plantas Medicinais/metabolismo , Nanopartículas Metálicas/química , Vibrio parahaemolyticus/efeitos dos fármacos , Vibrio parahaemolyticus/imunologia , Bangladesh , Aquicultura , Nanopartículas/química , Resistência à Doença , Vibrioses/prevenção & controle , Vibrioses/imunologia , Compostos FitoquímicosRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Since antiquity, plant-based remedies have played a significant role in treating gynecological disorders. In Italy, from the late 19th to mid-20th century, traditional medicine documented numerous botanical treatments for conditions such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, and hirsutism-now recognized as clinical features of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). AIM OF THE STUDY: This study investigates the historical use of plant-based therapies in Italian traditional medicine for managing PCOS-related symptoms. It also evaluates these remedies through contemporary pharmacological research and explores their continuity by comparing them with treatments described in the Corpus Hippocraticum, aiming to trace a lineage of therapeutic knowledge spanning over two millennia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-nine plant species traditionally used in Italy for symptoms now associated with PCOS were identified through historical sources. Of these, 22 species (44.9 %) were also cited in Hippocratic texts for similar indications. A comprehensive literature review using Medline and Scopus was conducted to assess current pharmacological evidence supporting their efficacy. RESULTS: Approximately 16 % of the identified plants have been tested in human clinical trials for PCOS treatment, while 22.5 % have shown relevant biological activity in in vivo studies. These findings support their potential therapeutic role in managing PCOS symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the enduring value of ethnopharmacological knowledge. Active compounds from Italian traditional medicinal plants may offer promising leads for developing new therapeutic agents for PCOS, supporting integrative approaches to women's health and future drug discovery.
Assuntos
Etnofarmacologia , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais , Fitoterapia , Preparações de Plantas , Plantas Medicinais , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico/tratamento farmacológico , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico/história , Humanos , Feminino , Itália , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais/história , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais/métodos , Etnofarmacologia/história , Plantas Medicinais/química , Fitoterapia/história , História Antiga , História do Século XIX , História do Século XX , História do Século XVIII , História Medieval , Preparações de Plantas/uso terapêuticoRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ferula sinkiangensis, commonly known as "Chinese Awei" or "Chinese Ferula", has attracted considerable attention due to its diverse ethnobotanical uses and phytochemical complexity. However, lacking an updated and comprehensive review addressing ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and threats facing this critically endangered medicinal plant of Xinjiang, China. AIM: This comprehensive review aims to provide an updated, meticulous study of F. sinkiangensis, encompassing its traditional applications, phytoconstituents, pharmacological properties, and insights into its socio-ecological significance and conservation strategies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A broad literature review was undertaken using online search engines, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Springer Link, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, and Web of Science, to compile pertinent information. RESULTS: Ferula sinkiangensis, boasts a rich history of traditional medicinal use, particularly in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, anthelmintic, diarrhea, malaria, respiratory tract infections, and wound healing. Presently, approximately 264 natural compounds have been identified from F. sinkiangensis, including sesquiterpene coumarins, lignans, sulfanes, sterols, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides. F. sinkiangensis exhibits diverse pharmacological activities, including anticancer, antiulcer, anti-sedative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ischemic effects. Among these, key compounds like Kellerin and Umbelliprenin have gained attention for their potent pharmacological activities. Kellerin exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, and the mechanistic action of Kellerin emphasizes its potential in treating neurodegenerative conditions. CONCLUSION: This review comprehensively examines F. sinkiangensis, highlighting its traditional applications, extensive phytochemical composition, and considerable pharmacological potential. Furthermore, it underscores the pressing need to implement conservation measures to protect this endangered medicinal resource from the threats of overharvesting and habitat destruction.
Assuntos
Ferula , Compostos Fitoquímicos , Ferula/química , Humanos , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/isolamento & purificação , Compostos Fitoquímicos/uso terapêutico , Animais , Etnofarmacologia , Medicina Tradicional Chinesa/métodos , Fitoterapia , Etnobotânica , Plantas MedicinaisRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Correct taxonomic identification and depositing voucher herbarium specimens in an internationally recognized herbarium institution listed in the Index Herbariorum (https://sweetgum.nybg.org/science/ih/), such as the John G. Searle Herbarium of the Field Museum of Natural History (code: F), Chicago, in our case, are considered critical components and a requirement in phytochemical work. These specimens are not only important as a basis for proper taxonomic identification and as a future reference, but can also decide the fate of a research project. Despite this, numerous aberrations have been observed in the literature over several decades resulting in inconsistencies in the use of the correct plant names in natural products research papers. These include botanical misidentification, the lack of the involvement of a taxonomist when botanical products are purchased, and the lack of documenting the research by depositing herbarium vouchers in a recognized herbarium institution prior to their phytochemical investigation. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This short review attempts to point out the importance of a voucher herbarium specimen as the physical evidence of the correct taxonomic identification of the plant being studied, and the need to have voucher herbarium specimens of plants being investigated deposited in an internationally recognized herbarium institution, so that it may be retrieved whenever needed. METHODS: In addition to pointing out common errors found in the use of the correct plant scientific names in natural products research papers, a rationale is presented on the importance of documenting the plant investigated by voucher herbarium specimens and the use of correct taxonomic identification in natural product research papers. RESULTS: Whether in phytochemistry, food science, drug discovery or other relevant fields, correct botanical identification based on a voucher herbarium specimen is critical for successful research. Examples are presented on the practices of the two senior investigators of this review during their collaborative work for the past several decades, in following appropriate and correct taxonomic protocols in phytochemical research as part of the discovery of bioactive lead compounds as potential candidates for therapies against cancer and other diseases. One example is the case when voucher herbarium specimens dating back >60 years were used in identifying a species of Stevia as a source of the steviol glycoside class of sweeteners. Furthermore, the involvement of a taxonomic specialist in correcting the misidentification of the source plant of the potent rocaglate derivative, silvestrol (18), was shown to be of great value. This has led not only to the use of the correct name of the plant concerned but also enabled further work on the large-scale re-isolation and the more extensive biological testing of the prototype members of this class of antitumor and antiviral secondary metabolites.
Assuntos
Compostos Fitoquímicos , Plantas Medicinais , Compostos Fitoquímicos/classificação , Humanos , Plantas Medicinais/classificação , Plantas Medicinais/química , EtnofarmacologiaRESUMO
Medicinal plants have long been recognized for their therapeutic benefits, particularly for their bioactive compounds that enhance quality of life. These plants and their derived compounds possess numerous pharmacological properties, including the modulation of immune system components. Immune responses are crucial for resolving oral infections caused by pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, as well as for preventing or managing oral cancer. A robust immune system plays a central role in defending against these stimuli, making it essential to explore and promote the use of medicinal plants that can enhance immune responses or intervene in disease-related processes.This chapter focuses on the immunomodulatory potential of specific plants and plant-derived compounds, specifying their bioactive chemical components responsible for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Many medicinal plants exhibit considerable immunomodulatory activities, primarily through the activation of signaling pathways like NF-κB and MAPK. These pathways are key regulators of inflammatory diseases and cancer, and their modulation by plant compounds holds promise for therapeutic applications. However, further studies are required to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms of these effects and to explore additional pathways involved in plant-based immunomodulation.Most studies on the immunomodulatory effects of medicinal plants have been conducted in vitro, so it is crucial to expand research into randomized clinical trials in diverse populations. Although many of the plants discussed in this chapter appear to be safe, their toxicological profiles in clinical settings remain underexplored and need further investigation. By advancing clinical research and assessing the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants, these natural products could play an increasingly important role in managing oral infections, cancer, and other immune-related conditions.
Assuntos
Fatores Imunológicos , Agentes de Imunomodulação , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Plantas Medicinais/química , Humanos , Animais , Agentes de Imunomodulação/farmacologia , Agentes de Imunomodulação/uso terapêutico , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Fatores Imunológicos/farmacologia , Fatores Imunológicos/uso terapêutico , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Imunomodulação/efeitos dos fármacos , Neoplasias/imunologia , Neoplasias/tratamento farmacológicoRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Snow Lotus is a representative medicinal herb in the traditional medical systems of Tibetan, Mongolian, Uyghur, and other ethnic groups, with a long history of use documented in classical texts such as âªKing of the Month Medicine Treasureâ«, âªJingzhu Ben Caoâ«, and âªsupplement to compendium of materia medicaâ«. Its botanical origin is complex, exhibiting a "single name with multiple sources" phenomenon, primarily comprising S. medusa., S. laniceps., and S. involucrata.. AIM OF THE STUDY: A comprehensive elucidation of snow lotus's ethnomedicinal applications, modern authentication techniques, chemical constituents and pharmacological activities. METHODS: Employing philological methods, this study systematically reviewed the ethnopharmacological knowledge of Saussurea species, including their nomenclature, botanical origins, medicinal parts, properties and efficacies, traditional processing methods, and inclusion in pharmacopoeias. Through comprehensive searches in multiple English and Chinese databases-such as SpringerLink, Web of Science, ACS Publications, PubMed, Elsevier ScienceDirect, and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure)-detailed information was collected on three major species: S. laniceps, S. medusa, and S. involucrata. The review summarizes their phytochemical constituents and pharmacological mechanisms, and further analyzes the functional roles of high-altitude adaptation-related genes. RESULTS: Saussurea species (S. medusa., S. laniceps., S. involucrata..) are ethnopharmacologically significant: Tibetan medicine utilizes their warm-bitter properties to clear heat, remove toxicity, and treat rheumatoid arthritis/anthrax; Uyghur medicine employs them for warming kidneys/uterus in cold-type rheumatism; Mongolian medicine uses their cool nature against anthrax/gout. Chemically, S. medusa. is rich in flavonoids/lignans/terpenoids; S. laniceps. contains coumarins/phenylpropanoids/unique sesquiterpene lactones/alkaloids; S. involucrata. features modified sesquiterpene lactones and acylated quinic acids. Pharmacologically, active components alleviate arthritis by suppressing NF-κB/MAPK pathways and modulating gut microbiota-metabolite axes; polysaccharides exert antioxidant/photoprotective effects via ARE activation and PI3K/Akt inhibition; ethanol extracts/hispidulin induce tumor apoptosis by regulating caspase/Bax and blocking EGFR/AKT. Additional activities include ameliorating myocardial ischemia, inhibiting melanogenesis, and neuroprotection. Gene studies reveal that hypoxia/MeJA upregulates DNA repair, terpenoid synthesis, and cold/drought resistance genes (SiICE1, SikCOR413PM1), enhancing stress tolerance. CONCLUSION: This review systematically integrates the ethnomedicinal knowledge, botanical species, chemical characteristics, and multi-target pharmacological mechanisms of Snow Lotus, confirming the scientific basis for its traditional efficacies, including anti-inflammatory, anti-RA, antioxidant, and antitumor effects. The identified genes provide valuable resources for crop stress resistance improvement and medicinal compound biosynthesis. These results establish a crucial foundation for the precise clinical application, quality control, and innovative drug development of Snow Lotus, while underscoring the importance of conserving endangered Snow Lotus resources and standardizing pharmacopeial criteria.
Assuntos
Compostos Fitoquímicos , Saussurea , Humanos , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Animais , Etnofarmacologia , Saussurea/química , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais , Plantas Medicinais , FitoterapiaRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANC: Feretia apodanthera is traditionally valued for its antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antiviral properties. With Plasmodium resistance to antimalarial drugs increasing, the need for alternative therapies has become urgent. Medicinal plants like F. apodanthera offer promising candidates for new treatments. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study investigates the antiplasmodial potential of F. apodanthera to support local malaria control strategies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The antiplasmodial activity of F. apodanthera leaf, stem bark and root extracts were assessed in vitro using the SYBR Green assay and in vivo with Plasmodium berghei NMRI-infected mice through suppressive, curative, and prophylactic approaches. Toxicity was evaluated in mice and red blood cells, while phytochemical composition was analysed using UHPLC-HRMS and GC-MS. RESULTS: F. apodanthera extracts were non-toxic (LD50 > 5000 mg/kg) and exhibited strong in vitro trophozoitocidal activity (IC50: 0.140 ± 0.015-0.620 ± 0.014 µg/mL) with minimal haemolysis (<1 %). In vivo, parasitaemia reduction was tissue-and dose-dependent, with leaf showing the highest chemosuppressive efficacy across suppressive (32.33 ± 9.42 % at 125 mg/kg, 68.01 ± 9.73 % at 250 mg/kg, and 76.31 ± 8.77 % at 500 mg/kg), curative (68.41 ± 12.41 % at Day 5 and 63.41 ± 12.28 % at Day 7), and prophylactic (63.60 ± 8.78 % at Day 5 and 57.10 ± 13.20 % at Day 7) tests. Root and stem bark extracts had moderate chemosuppressive efficacy across the three tests. UHPLC-HRMS analysis revealed a diverse range of bioactive compounds in leaf, stem bark and root extracts, including terpenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, iridoids, and alkaloids, and GC/MS analysis found alkaloids only in leaf and root extracts. The compounds identified may contribute to their antiplasmodial activity. Notably, polyphenols and alkaloids compounds were more abundant in leaf, which may explain their higher antiplasmodial activity. CONCLUSION: Overall, all three organs of F. apodanthera exhibited antiplasmodial activity both in vitro and in vivo while remaining non-toxic. The leaf demonstrated superior chemosuppressive and schizonticidal activity, along with strong trophozoitocidal effects, whereas the root and stem bark excelled in trophozoitocidal activity. These findings support the traditional use of F. apodanthera in malaria treatment and highlight its potential for developing antimalarial phytomedicines.
Assuntos
Antimaláricos , Malária , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Plasmodium berghei , Rubiaceae , Animais , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Extratos Vegetais/toxicidade , Extratos Vegetais/isolamento & purificação , Extratos Vegetais/química , Antimaláricos/farmacologia , Antimaláricos/uso terapêutico , Antimaláricos/toxicidade , Antimaláricos/isolamento & purificação , Malária/tratamento farmacológico , Malária/parasitologia , Plasmodium berghei/efeitos dos fármacos , Camundongos , Plantas Medicinais/química , Rubiaceae/química , Folhas de Planta , Raízes de Plantas , Feminino , Masculino , Eritrócitos/efeitos dos fármacos , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/análise , Casca de PlantaRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Medicinal and edible herbs (MEHs), including ginger (Zingiber officinale), goji berries (Lycium barbarum), and hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida), serve dual roles as both dietary components and therapeutic agents. Their pharmacological activities are primarily attributed to natural bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins. These constituents exhibit multifunctional properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. AIMS OF THE REVIEW: This study identifies 61 herbs that exhibit protective effects against Alcoholic liver disease (ALD). These herbs are classified according to their medicinal parts and reviewed with regard to their source, function, active ingredients, signaling pathways, and mechanisms of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study screened 106 MEHs officially recognized in China as of 2025 through a comprehensive search of both domestic and international databases (CNKI, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, ACS database, Springer database, Elsevier ScienceDirect, PubMed). RESULTS: In this review, we summarize the mechanisms and pharmacological activities of MEHs, thereby providing insights for the development of drugs, functional foods, and health products aimed at the prevention and treatment of ALD. CONCLUSIONS: Current clinical management of ALD primarily depends on monotherapeutic approaches utilizing single active components with poorly defined molecular targets. This strategy carries risks of off-target effects and dose-limiting toxicities, thereby constraining its broader therapeutic utility. Compared to pure drugs, these herbs generally have fewer adverse effects, are suitable for prolonged use, and are appropriate for a wide range of people, especially those with weaker constitutions.
Assuntos
Hepatopatias Alcoólicas , Plantas Comestíveis , Plantas Medicinais , Humanos , Hepatopatias Alcoólicas/prevenção & controle , Hepatopatias Alcoólicas/tratamento farmacológico , Animais , Plantas Medicinais/química , Plantas Comestíveis/química , FitoterapiaRESUMO
The raw parts (roots, leaves, seeds, flowers, etc.) and extracts of medicinal and aromatic herb (MAH) species are widely utilized in traditional and modern medicine as drugs to treat disease and/or prevent illnesses. MAH species absorb nutrients and minerals from the soil, as well as toxic elements and radionuclides dispersed in the environment. Thus, this may provoke concerns about the possibility of human internal exposure to radionuclides found in these MAH species. This study aims to create a detailed database related to the activity concentrations of the natural (228Ra, 226Ra, and 40K) and artificial (137Cs) radionuclides in popular commercial MAH species consumed in Türkiye and potential radiological health risks (PRHRs) due to the ingestion of MAHs. The activity concentrations (Bq/kg) of the radionuclides analyzed in the commercial popular 98 MAH samples by a gamma-ray spectrometric method varied from <0.6 to 19.3 with an average of 6.9 (228Ra), <0.5 to 37.5 with an average of 8.6 (226Ra), and 32 to 1297 with an average of 358 (40K). All activity concentrations of 137Cs were found below 0.3 Bq/kg. The average values of total annual effective dose, mortality cancer risk, and morbidity cancer risk estimated for adult consumers to assess PRHRs were found to be 16.5 µSv/y, 6.0 × 10-5 and 8.9 × 10-5, respectively. This study reveals that radiological data are below acceptable limits for public health, and therefore, the studied MAH samples are safe in terms of radiological risk.
Assuntos
Contaminação Radioativa de Alimentos , Plantas Medicinais , Humanos , Plantas Medicinais/química , Rádio (Elemento)/análise , Medição de Risco , Radioisótopos de Potássio/análise , Radioisótopos de Césio/análise , Contaminação Radioativa de Alimentos/análiseRESUMO
Medicinal plants have been an essential source of indigenous medicines and continue to play a vital role in pharmaceutical industries. Comprehensive knowledge of their elemental composition is crucial, as these elements significantly influence metabolic and physiological processes. The current investigation focuses on the compositional analysis of the Otostegia limbata (OL-MP), a medicinal plant, using the fast and efficient Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technique. Four major parts of the plant, root, bark, leaves, and flowers, along with surrounding soil samples, were analyzed. Twelve elements, including Ca, Mg, Al, K, Sr, Ba, Fe, Ti, Cr, Mn, Li, and Na, were detected with varying concentrations across the samples. Plasma temperature and electron number density were estimated using the Boltzmann plot method and Stark broadening parameter, yielding values of approximately (10,000 ± 1000 K) and (1.31 ± 1.00 × 1017 cm-3), respectively. Compositional analysis was conducted using Calibration-Free LIBS (CF-LIBS), which revealed high concentrations of silicon (22.8 %) and calcium (13.5 %) in the soil. In plant tissues, calcium was predominant, with roots containing 34.7 % calcium and 18.5 % iron; bark exhibiting elevated calcium (24.11 %), potassium (19.38 %), and iron (16.38 %); leaves rich in calcium (30.6 %) and barium (20.3 %); and flowers showing the highest calcium content at 34.9 %, highlighting its key role in reproductive structures. The accuracy of the proposed method was comparable to that of advanced laboratory equipment, with detected elemental concentrations found to be below toxic thresholds. This comprehensive, non-destructive analytical approach demonstrates potential for direct toxicity monitoring and quality assurance in homeopathic and pharmaceutical applications.
Assuntos
Lasers , Plantas Medicinais , Análise Espectral , Oligoelementos , Plantas Medicinais/química , Oligoelementos/análise , Análise Espectral/métodos , Folhas de Planta/química , Raízes de Plantas/química , Solo/químicaRESUMO
This study reported the profiling and the in-silico analysis of the therapeutic potential of proteins/peptides (for Alzheimer disease) isolated from Tinospora cordifolia, Evolvulus alsinoides, Centella asiatica and Convolvulus pluricaulis. The proteins/peptides were extracted by using four different pH based buffer solutions. The trypsin digested proteins/peptides were analyzed by LC-MS/MS based peptide mass fingerprinting which showed the presence of high number of proteins/peptides involved in regulating the oxidative stress. The sequential purification with 10 kDa and 3 kDa cut-off ultrafiltration membranes for buffer based extracted proteins/peptides was performed. The evaluation of crude and these filtrates revealed the highest antioxidant potential for 3 kDa cut-off filtrate of 0.1 M Tris HCl buffer (pH 8.0) from FRAP, DPPH, ABTS and NOS assays. The presence of peptides in 3 kDa cut-off filtrates was detected by HPLC, identified by MALDI-TOF MS and the fragmentation pattern was obtained by LC-MS/MS. The in-silico docking study revealed that the identified peptides showed the highest binding affinity against the Alzheimer targets (BACE1, nAChR, Aß, AChE, GSK-3ß, JNK). Thus, the findings of this study provided the preliminary evidence for the antioxidant and neuroprotective potential of the selected medicinal plants, by supporting their relevance in delaying the onset of neurodegeneration and highlighting their prospects for drug development.
Assuntos
Doença de Alzheimer , Antioxidantes , Peptídeos , Proteínas de Plantas , Plantas Medicinais , Doença de Alzheimer/tratamento farmacológico , Doença de Alzheimer/metabolismo , Plantas Medicinais/química , Peptídeos/isolamento & purificação , Peptídeos/química , Peptídeos/farmacologia , Peptídeos/metabolismo , Peptídeos/uso terapêutico , Humanos , Simulação de Acoplamento Molecular , Antioxidantes/isolamento & purificação , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Antioxidantes/química , Proteínas de Plantas/isolamento & purificação , Proteínas de Plantas/química , Proteínas de Plantas/farmacologia , Proteínas de Plantas/metabolismo , Simulação por Computador , Espectrometria de Massas em TandemRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Medicinal plants used to treat female infertility in Lubumbashi have not been listed or pharmacologically studied for this disease, implying a notable shortcoming in an era of evidence-based medicine promotion. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aims to (i) list the medicinal plants used by traditional practitioners in Lubumbashi to treat female infertility; (ii) to assess the effects of Parinari curatellifollia Planch. ex Benth. (Chrysobalanaceaese) on the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); and (iii) to elucidate its phytochemical composition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey was conducted among the Lubumbashi traditional practitioners commonly consulted for female infertility. The hydroethanolic extract from the P. curatellifolia root bark (the most cited plant species) was tested on female albino rats in which PCOS was induced by letrozole. The extract effects were assessed based on the corrections observed in the extract-treated groups regarding weight, hormonal, metabolic, and hepatic disturbances, compared to the healthy and clomiphene-treated groups. In addition, the extract's free radical scavenging activity and major phytochemical groups were evaluated. RESULTS: 32 traditional healers (34.4 % women, mean age 53.22 ± 12.25 years, mean seniority 20.72 ± 7.34 years), claiming to be consulted at least twice a week for female infertility, were interviewed. A total of 27 plant species were listed in 31 recipes used to treat female infertility in Lubumbashi. Parinari curatellifolia was the most cited (40.6 %), and the ingredient in 11 recipes, less harmful, but also not yet pharmacologically studied against female infertility and PCOS. Roots are the most widely used part of plant, prepared by maceration, decoction, or infusion, and administered mainly orally; unit doses being typically measured using the glass. The hydroethanolic extract of P. curatellifolia root bark showed the beneficial effects normalizing serum levels of estradiol, testosterone, progesterone, LH, and FSH, as well as blood glucose and lipid profiles, to levels comparable or superior to clomiphene (positive control), mainly in the group treated with the 500 mg/kg/d extract. In addition, this extract demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activity like that of quercetin, and significantly corrected the hepatic disturbances while clomiphene worsened its. Mineral analysis highlighted elements that could have a positive (Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn) or negative (Cd, Pb) impact on female fertility, but whose ingested doses were below daily requirements and acceptable limits respectively. Phytochemical screening detected anthocyanins, flavonoids, gallic and catechin tannins, quinones, triterpenes, steroids, and saponins, probably involved in the observed pharmacological activities. CONCLUSION: Various plant species have been identified as being used alone or combined to treat female infertility in Lubumbashi. The hydroethanolic extract of P. curatellifolia root bark shown the beneficial effects against PCOS correcting the related hormonal and metabolic disturbances, as well as neutralization of the free radicals.
Assuntos
Infertilidade Feminina , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico , Feminino , Animais , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico/tratamento farmacológico , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico/induzido quimicamente , Síndrome do Ovário Policístico/sangue , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Extratos Vegetais/isolamento & purificação , Infertilidade Feminina/tratamento farmacológico , Ratos , Plantas Medicinais/química , Letrozol , Humanos , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais , Ratos Wistar , Fitoterapia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/análiseRESUMO
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: South America boasts a rich biodiversity and a long history of utilizing therapeutic plants by indigenous cultures. However, limited research investment, knowledge gaps, and environmental degradation hinder the development of its herbal medicine potential. The genotoxic and mutagenic potential, as well as the antimutagenic effects, of South American plants are critical considerations for ensuring their safe and effective therapeutic use. AIMS OF THE STUDY: To perform a comprehensive literature review about potential genetic damage, mutagenesis, and DNA protective effects of South American plant extracts in different biological models and system assays. It deepens our understanding of advanced research and addresses gaps regarding the specific metabolites and mechanisms of action related to the genotoxic, mutagenic, and modulatory effects of these plant extracts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Peer-reviewed articles were collected from Google Scholar and Science Direct. Only scientific journals indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases were considered for the analysis, with a publication date range of 1990-2024. RESULTS: Over 147 medicinal plant extracts from South America, primarily Brazil, Argentina, Peru, and Colombia, were screened between 1990 and 2024. They employed in vitro and in vivo methods to assess their genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and DNA protective activities. The results showed that at least 50 % of plant species used in South American traditional medicine are potentially antigenotoxic and antimutagenic, as evidenced by their ability to reduce genetic changes. CONCLUSION: The plant extracts protect against DNA alterations through desmutagenic and bioantimutagenic modes of action. The mechanism underlying modulated DNA damage involved reactive oxygen species scavenging and DNA repair, facilitated by antioxidant biomolecules such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and tannins. Genotoxicity was associated with high concentrations of the extracts, which contained active compounds including alkaloids and terpenes, primarily responsible for DNA damage and the generation of mutations mediated by oxidative stress mechanisms.
Assuntos
Antimutagênicos , Dano ao DNA , Mutagênicos , Compostos Fitoquímicos , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/toxicidade , América do Sul , Dano ao DNA/efeitos dos fármacos , Humanos , Animais , Plantas Medicinais/química , Antimutagênicos/farmacologia , Antimutagênicos/isolamento & purificação , Mutagênicos/toxicidade , Mutagênicos/farmacologia , Mutagênese/efeitos dos fármacos , Sistemas Médicos Complexos Tradicionais , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologiaRESUMO
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) significantly impact on the growth, nutritional intake, and secondary metabolite synthesis of essential oil-producing plants by forming crucial symbiotic relationships with their roots. Recent research findings that demonstrate the diverse functions of AMF in improving the amount and chemical makeup of essential oils are compiled in this article. In sustainable agriculture, particularly in organic farming systems that utilize minimal synthetic inputs, AMF and medicinal herbs have demonstrated a positive relationship. AMF also supports ecological stability by promoting biodiversity and enhancing soil structure. The molecular and pharmacological mechanisms underlying these plant-fungal interactions are still not fully known, however. This study highlights the need for further research into the mechanisms of action of AMF, the development of effective inoculation methods, and the evaluation of novel herb-fungus combinations. It also reveals present research gaps. These revelations will open the door to more environmentally friendly farming methods and the efficient use of AMF in the manufacture of essential oils. AMF and medicinal plants have a promising interaction in sustainable agriculture, especially in organic farming systems that employ fewer synthetic inputs. Additionally, AMF improves soil structure and encourages biodiversity, both of which support ecological stability.
Assuntos
Micorrizas , Óleos Voláteis , Plantas Medicinais , Simbiose , Micorrizas/fisiologia , Óleos Voláteis/metabolismo , Plantas Medicinais/microbiologia , Plantas Medicinais/metabolismo , Raízes de Plantas/microbiologia , Microbiologia do Solo , Biodiversidade , Solo/química , AgriculturaRESUMO
Goniothalamus simonsii Hook. f. Thoms., an endangered medicinal plant is endemic to the state of Meghalaya, India. Its wide use in traditional medicine in Meghalaya for treating gastrointestinal complications, throat irritation and typhoid fever, is not matched by scientific reports on its pharmacological attributes. The present investigation evaluated the phytochemical constituents by GC-MS analysis; while bioactivities including antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity were assessed by DPPH, agar-well diffusion and MTT methods, respectively. The leaf extract showed elevated content of phenolics (154.76 ± 7.98 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (55.91 ± 3.05 mg QE/g). GC-MS analysis identified compounds included cis-vaccenic acid, kavain, 3-methoxy-2-(quinoxalin-6-yliminomethyl), spathulenol, aziridine, stigmasterol, n-hexadecanoic acid, cholest-4-en-3-one, coniferyl alcohol and so forth. Leaf extract displayed IC50 value of 437.38 ± 13.11 µg/mL in the DPPH assay. The extracts displayed antimicrobial activity (13.21-22.63 mm) against a broad spectrum of bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging > 1000-58.59 µg/mL. The antiproliferative effect was observed against colon cancer cell line (HT-29) with IC50 value of 9.8 ± 7.84 µg/mL. Docking results demonstrated that stigmasterol exhibited the highest binding affinity for target protein CDK2, with docking score of -8.9 kcal/mol. These findings serve as a catalyst for additional research on G. simonsii as a prospective bioresource for bioactive compounds in future phytotherapeutics.
Assuntos
Antibacterianos , Antifúngicos , Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos , Antioxidantes , Goniothalamus , Compostos Fitoquímicos , Extratos Vegetais , Plantas Medicinais , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Compostos Fitoquímicos/química , Compostos Fitoquímicos/isolamento & purificação , Humanos , Goniothalamus/química , Plantas Medicinais/química , Plantas Medicinais/metabolismo , Testes de Sensibilidade Microbiana , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Antioxidantes/química , Antioxidantes/isolamento & purificação , Antibacterianos/farmacologia , Antibacterianos/química , Antibacterianos/isolamento & purificação , Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos/farmacologia , Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos/química , Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos/isolamento & purificação , Folhas de Planta/química , Folhas de Planta/metabolismo , Extratos Vegetais/química , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/isolamento & purificação , Proliferação de Células/efeitos dos fármacos , Simulação de Acoplamento Molecular , Relação Estrutura-Atividade , Ensaios de Seleção de Medicamentos Antitumorais , Picratos/antagonistas & inibidores , Linhagem Celular Tumoral , Relação Dose-Resposta a Droga , Compostos de Bifenilo/antagonistas & inibidores , Estrutura Molecular , Sobrevivência Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Antifúngicos/farmacologia , Antifúngicos/química , Antifúngicos/isolamento & purificação , Cromatografia Gasosa-Espectrometria de MassasRESUMO
This study investigates the chemical constituents and biological activities of the stems of the Mongolian medicinal plant Syringa oblata Lindl. ("Alashan-Agaru"). Through chromatographic separation and spectroscopic analysis, 34 compounds were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction, including four new and ten first-reported in Syringa species. Using an LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage model, several compounds significantly inhibited NO production. It is known that compound 34 significantly reduced the levels of interleukin - 1ß, interleukin - 6 and CD14. In addition, among the 23 lignans detected by the DPPH method, five showed strong antioxidant activity, with half - maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values lower than that of vitamin C. These results provide a scientific basis for the medicinal use of the stems of Syringa reticulata var. amurensis.
Assuntos
Antioxidantes , Lignanas , Syringa , Camundongos , Animais , Caules de Planta/química , Células RAW 264.7 , Syringa/química , Estrutura Molecular , Óxido Nítrico/metabolismo , Antioxidantes/isolamento & purificação , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Antioxidantes/química , Lignanas/isolamento & purificação , Lignanas/farmacologia , Lignanas/química , Compostos Fitoquímicos/isolamento & purificação , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologia , Plantas Medicinais/química , Macrófagos/efeitos dos fármacos , China , Extratos Vegetais/química , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologiaRESUMO
Pain is one of the most pervasive health problems associated with a negative impact on thinking, mood, psychological, and social communication. The medicinal plants and their derived compounds have recently attracted great interest as potential candidates for defeating pain because of their worldwide safety, availability, and affordability. This review was constructed to summarize all in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials regarding plant-derived compounds' analgesic and antinociceptive effects. Further, we focus on structural aspects, molecular mechanisms, and pharmacological effects. A literature survey was performed in "PubMed," "Science Direct," and "Google Scholar," using the keywords "Pain, Analgesic activity, Flavonoids, Phenolics, Medicinal plants, Volatile oils, Tannins, Saponins, Alkaloids" to assess the activities of each compound. The main natural compounds studied were flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, lignans, anthraquinones, and volatile oils. Different in vitro studies utilized nucleus pulposus cells, VK2/E6E7, End1/E6E7, and LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells to assess analgesic effects. The frequently defined animal models of analgesic activity included acetic acid-induced abdominal constrictions, hot-plate test, tail-flick test, formalin test, complete Freund's adjuvant-induced pain, and hind paw incisional surgery. For the natural compounds described, the opioids, serotonergic, and cannabinoid receptors appeared to be the most promising targets for pain management. This review suggested a wealthy resource of natural compounds as analgesic and antinociceptive candidates for pharmacists and drug researchers to launch a new drug with promising efficacy and safety.