Evaluación del aceite de hierbaluisa ecuatoriana como inhibidor de algunos patógenos orales / Evaluation of Ecuadorian lemongrass oil as an inhibitor of some oral pathogens

Introducción: El aceite esencial de hierbaluisa tiene propiedades antibacterianas y antifúngicas que merecen ser estudiadas para usarse como alternativa a los fármacos. Objetivo: Determinar el efecto inhibitorio del aceite esencial de hierbaluisa, procedente del oriente (provincia de Pastaza) y la costa (provincia de los Ríos) ecuatoriana al 25, 50, 75 y 100 por ciento a las 24, 48 y 72 horas sobre el Porphyromona gingivalis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus y Candida albicans. Métodos: Estudio experimental, in vitro. Para medir el efecto inhibitorio se usaron las cepas de P. gingivalis, E. faecalis, S. aureus y C. albicans incubadas en 20 cajas Petri para cada microorganismo (10 para el aceite de la costa y 10 para el oriente). En cada caja se colocaron los discos con la concentración del aceite esencial de hierbaluisa, el control positivo (clorhexidina al 0,12 por ciento para las bacterias y nistatina para C. albicans) y el control negativo (suero fisiológico). Se midieron los halos de inhibición a las 24, 48 y 72 horas. Resultados: El aceite esencial de hierbaluisa del oriente al 100 por ciento a las 24 horas obtuvo los halos de inhibición más altos que fueron de 8,90 mm para la C. albicans; 19,10 mm para el S. aureus; 11,90 mm para el E. faecalis y 8,00 mm para la P. gingivalis. Hubo una sensibilidad media para S. aureus, límite para E. faecalis y nula para C. albicans y P. gingivalis. Conclusiones: El aceite de hierbaluisa de la costa y el oriente ecuatoriano inhibió el S. aureus(AU)

Introduction: The essential oil of lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties that deserve to be studied for using as an alternative to drugs. Objective: To determine the inhibitory effect of the essential oil of lemon verbena from the east (Pastaza province) and the coast (Los Rios province) of Ecuador at 25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent and 100 percent at 24, 48 and 72 hours on Porphyromona gingivalis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Methods: Experimental study, in vitro. To measure the inhibitory effect, P. gingivalis, E. faecalis, S. aureus and C. albicans strains were incubated in 20 Petri dishes for each microorganism (10 for coastal oil and 10 for eastern). In each box were placed the disks with the concentration of the essential oil of lemon verbena, the positive control (chlorhexidine 0.12 percent for bacteria and nystatin for C. albicans) and the negative control (physiological serum). Inhibition halos were measured after 24, 48 and 72 hours. Results: Eastern lemongrass essential oil at 100 percent at 24 hours obtained the highest inhibition halos which were 8.90 mm for C. albicans; 19.10 mm for S. aureus; 11.90 mm for E. faecalis and 8.00 mm for P. gingivalis. There was medium sensitivity for S. aureus, borderline for E. faecalis and null for C. albicans and P. gingivalis. Conclusions: Herbal lemongrass oil from coastal and eastern Ecuador inhibited S. aureus(AU)

Toxicity and larvicidal activity on Aedes aegypti of citronella essential oil submitted to enzymatic esterification / Toxicidade e atividade larvicida sobre Aedes aegypti de óleo essencial de citronella submetido à esterificação enzimática

The essential oil of citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus) has several biological activities, among them the insect repellent action. Some studies showed that cinnamic acid esters can be applied as natural pesticides, insecticides and fungicides. In this context, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the production of esters from citronella essential oil with cinnamic acid via enzymatic esterification. Besides, the essential oil toxicity before and after esterification against Artemia salina and larvicidal action on Aedes aegypti was investigated. Esters were produced using cinnamic acid as the acylating agent and citronella essential oil (3:1) in heptane and 15 wt% NS 88011 enzyme as biocatalysts, at 70 °C and 150 rpm. Conversion rates of citronellyl and geranyl cinnamates were 58.7 and 69.0% for NS 88011, respectively. For the toxicity to Artemia salina LC50 results of 5.29 μg mL-¹ were obtained for the essential oil and 4.36 μg mL-¹ for the esterified oils obtained with NS 88011. In the insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti larvae, was obtained LC50 of 111.84 μg mL-¹ for the essential oil of citronella and 86.30 μg mL-¹ for the esterified oils obtained with the enzyme NS 88011, indicating high toxicity of the esters. The results demonstrated that the evaluated samples present potential of application as bioinsecticide.

O óleo essencial de citronela (Cymbopogon winterianus) possui diversas atividades biológicas, entre elas a ação repelente a insetos. Alguns estudos mostraram que os ésteres do ácido cinâmico podem ser aplicados como pesticidas naturais, inseticidas e fungicidas. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a produção de ésteres a partir do óleo essencial de citronela com ácido cinâmico via esterificação enzimática. Além disso, foi investigada a toxicidade do óleo essencial antes e após a esterificação contra Artemia salina e a ação larvicida sobre Aedes aegypti. Os ésteres foram produzidos utilizando ácido cinâmico como agente acilante e óleo essencial de citronela (3: 1) em heptano e 15% em peso da enzima NS 88011 como biocatalisadores, a 70 ° C e 150 rpm. As taxas de conversão de cinamatos de citronelil e geranil foram 58,7 e 69,0% para NS 88011, respectivamente. Para a toxicidade sobre Artemia salina foram obtidos CL50 de 5,29 μg mL-¹ para o óleo essencial e 4,36 μg mL-¹ para os óleos esterificados com NS 88011. Na atividade inseticida contra larvas de Aedes aegypti, obteve-se CL50 de 111,84 μg mL-¹ para o óleo essencial de citronela e 86,30 μg mL-¹ para os óleos esterificados com a enzima NS 88011, indicando alta toxicidade dos ésteres. Os resultados demonstraram que as amostras avaliadas apresentam potencial de aplicação como bioinseticida.

Toxicity and larvicidal activity on Aedes aegypti of citronella essential oil submitted to enzymatic esterification

Abstract The essential oil of citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus) has several biological activities, among them the insect repellent action. Some studies showed that cinnamic acid esters can be applied as natural pesticides, insecticides and fungicides. In this context, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the production of esters from citronella essential oil with cinnamic acid via enzymatic esterification. Besides, the essential oil toxicity before and after esterification against Artemia salina and larvicidal action on Aedes aegypti was investigated. Esters were produced using cinnamic acid as the acylating agent and citronella essential oil (3:1) in heptane and 15 wt% NS 88011 enzyme as biocatalysts, at 70 °C and 150 rpm. Conversion rates of citronellyl and geranyl cinnamates were 58.7 and 69.0% for NS 88011, respectively. For the toxicity to Artemia salina LC50 results of 5.29 g mL-1 were obtained for the essential oil and 4.36 g mL-1 for the esterified oils obtained with NS 88011. In the insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti larvae, was obtained LC50 of 111.84 g mL-1 for the essential oil of citronella and 86.30 g mL-1 for the esterified oils obtained with the enzyme NS 88011, indicating high toxicity of the esters. The results demonstrated that the evaluated samples present potential of application as bioinsecticide.

Resumo O óleo essencial de citronela (Cymbopogon winterianus) possui diversas atividades biológicas, entre elas a ação repelente a insetos. Alguns estudos mostraram que os ésteres do ácido cinâmico podem ser aplicados como pesticidas naturais, inseticidas e fungicidas. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a produção de ésteres a partir do óleo essencial de citronela com ácido cinâmico via esterificação enzimática. Além disso, foi investigada a toxicidade do óleo essencial antes e após a esterificação contra Artemia salina e a ação larvicida sobre Aedes aegypti. Os ésteres foram produzidos utilizando ácido cinâmico como agente acilante e óleo essencial de citronela (3: 1) em heptano e 15% em peso da enzima NS 88011 como biocatalisadores, a 70 ° C e 150 rpm. As taxas de conversão de cinamatos de citronelil e geranil foram 58,7 e 69,0% para NS 88011, respectivamente. Para a toxicidade sobre Artemia salina foram obtidos CL50 de 5,29 g mL-1 para o óleo essencial e 4,36 g mL-1 para os óleos esterificados com NS 88011. Na atividade inseticida contra larvas de Aedes aegypti, obteve-se CL50 de 111,84 g mL-1 para o óleo essencial de citronela e 86,30 g mL-1 para os óleos esterificados com a enzima NS 88011, indicando alta toxicidade dos ésteres. Os resultados demonstraram que as amostras avaliadas apresentam potencial de aplicação como bioinseticida.

Toxicity and larvicidal activity on Aedes aegypti of citronella essential oil submitted to enzymatic esterification / Toxicidade e atividade larvicida sobre Aedes aegypti de óleo essencial de citronella submetido à esterificação enzimática

Abstract The essential oil of citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus) has several biological activities, among them the insect repellent action. Some studies showed that cinnamic acid esters can be applied as natural pesticides, insecticides and fungicides. In this context, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the production of esters from citronella essential oil with cinnamic acid via enzymatic esterification. Besides, the essential oil toxicity before and after esterification against Artemia salina and larvicidal action on Aedes aegypti was investigated. Esters were produced using cinnamic acid as the acylating agent and citronella essential oil (3:1) in heptane and 15 wt% NS 88011 enzyme as biocatalysts, at 70 °C and 150 rpm. Conversion rates of citronellyl and geranyl cinnamates were 58.7 and 69.0% for NS 88011, respectively. For the toxicity to Artemia salina LC50 results of 5.29 μg mL-1 were obtained for the essential oil and 4.36 μg mL-1 for the esterified oils obtained with NS 88011. In the insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti larvae, was obtained LC50 of 111.84 μg mL-1 for the essential oil of citronella and 86.30 μg mL-1 for the esterified oils obtained with the enzyme NS 88011, indicating high toxicity of the esters. The results demonstrated that the evaluated samples present potential of application as bioinsecticide.

Resumo O óleo essencial de citronela (Cymbopogon winterianus) possui diversas atividades biológicas, entre elas a ação repelente a insetos. Alguns estudos mostraram que os ésteres do ácido cinâmico podem ser aplicados como pesticidas naturais, inseticidas e fungicidas. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a produção de ésteres a partir do óleo essencial de citronela com ácido cinâmico via esterificação enzimática. Além disso, foi investigada a toxicidade do óleo essencial antes e após a esterificação contra Artemia salina e a ação larvicida sobre Aedes aegypti. Os ésteres foram produzidos utilizando ácido cinâmico como agente acilante e óleo essencial de citronela (3: 1) em heptano e 15% em peso da enzima NS 88011 como biocatalisadores, a 70 ° C e 150 rpm. As taxas de conversão de cinamatos de citronelil e geranil foram 58,7 e 69,0% para NS 88011, respectivamente. Para a toxicidade sobre Artemia salina foram obtidos CL50 de 5,29 μg mL-1 para o óleo essencial e 4,36 μg mL-1 para os óleos esterificados com NS 88011. Na atividade inseticida contra larvas de Aedes aegypti, obteve-se CL50 de 111,84 μg mL-1 para o óleo essencial de citronela e 86,30 μg mL-1 para os óleos esterificados com a enzima NS 88011, indicando alta toxicidade dos ésteres. Os resultados demonstraram que as amostras avaliadas apresentam potencial de aplicação como bioinseticida.

Antifungal analysis of incorporation of the essential oil of Cymbopogon citratus (D.C.) Stapf into polymethyl methacrylate / Análise antifúngica da incorporação do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus (d.c.) Stapf em polimetacrilato de metila

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluated the antifungal effect of the incorporation of different concentrations of the essential oil Cymbopogon citratus (capim santo), into polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) against Candida albicans. Methods: Fifty specimens were fabricated and divided into five groups: Group 1, PMMA + 10% essential oil (n=10); Group 2, PMMA + 15% essential oil (n=10); Group 3, PMMA + 20% essential oil (n=10); Group 4, PMMA + 25% essential oil (n=10); Group 5, PMMA (n=10). PMMA powder was mixed with the monomer and the mixture was placed in disc-shaped cavities measuring 15 mm in diameter, 2 mm thick. To evaluate the antifungal activity of the experimental specimens, the standard strain of Candida albicans was tested. After incubation, the colony count of each plate was performed using a digital colony counter, obtaining the number of colony forming units (CFU) and the Kruskal-Wallis test was applied. Results: There was statistically significant difference in the CFU count of Candida albicans as a consequence of the addition of Cymbopogon citratus essential oil to PMMA (p < 0.001) and values were significantly higher in comparison with those of all the other groups, when the essential oil was incorporated as incorporated into the PMMA in the concentration of 20%. In the other concentrations, no difference in values was observed in comparison with the Control Group without essential oil of Cymbopogon citratus. Conclusion: The acrylic resin with the essential oil incorporated into it in different concentrations provided no effect against development of the genus Candida.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito antifúngico da incorporação de diferentes concentrações do óleo essencial Cymbopogon citratus (capim santo), em polimetilmetacrilato (PMMA) contra Candida albicans. Métodos: Cinquenta corpos de prova foram confeccionados e divididos em cinco grupos: Grupo 1, PMMA + 10% de óleo essencial (n=10); Grupo 2, PMMA + 15% de óleo essencial (n=10); Grupo 3, PMMA + 20% de óleo essencial (n=10); Grupo 4, PMMA + 25% de óleo essencial (n=10); Grupo 5, PMMA (n=10). O pó de PMMA foi misturado ao monômero e a mistura foi colocada em cavidades em forma de disco medindo 15 mm de diâmetro por 2 mm de espessura. Para avaliar a atividade antifúngica dos espécimes experimentais, foi testada a cepa padrão de Candida albicans. Após a incubação, foi realizada a contagem de colônias de cada placa por meio de um contador digital de colônias, obtendo-se o número de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC) e para isso foi aplicado o teste de Kruskal-Wallis. Resultados: Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na contagem de UFC de Candida albicans como consequência da adição do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus ao PMMA (p < 0,001) e os valores foram significativamente maiores em comparação com todos os outros grupos, quando o essencial óleo foi incorporado como incorporado ao PMMA na concentração de 20%. Nas demais concentrações, não houve diferença nos valores em relação ao Grupo Controle sem óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus. Conclusão: A resina acrílica com o óleo essencial incorporado a ela em diferentes concentrações não apresentou efeito contra o desenvolvimento do gênero Candida.

Aplicações terapêuticas do Cymbopogon citratus (capim-limão) na odontologia: uma revisão de literatura integrativa / Therapeutic applications of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) in dentistry: an integrative literature review

Introdução: O Cymbopogon citratus (capim-limão) é uma espécie herbácea pertencente à família Poaceae, que engloba aproximadamente 500 gêneros e 8.000 espécies. Objetivos: Analisar as evidências científicas disponíveis sobre as aplicações terapêuticas de Cymbopogon citratus (capim-limão) na Odontologia durante os últimos dez anos. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, que envolveu as seguintes etapas: elaboração da pergunta norteadora, estabelecimento das palavras-chave e dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão de artigos, seleção e análise crítica dos artigos, resultados, discussão e conclusão. Resultados: 8% dos artigos encontrados e analisados nessa revisão de literatura integrativa demonstraram que o Cymbopogon citratus (capim-limão) apresenta potencial terapêutico no que se refere a suas propriedades antimicrobianas, sendo considerado benéfico e promissor na inibição de patógenos colonizadores bacterianos e fúngicos dentários, além de demonstrar baixa citotoxicidade. Conclusão: Apesar da existência de diversas pesquisas in vitro que demonstram eficácia e segurança do uso de diversos compostos de origem natural, nota-se que há poucos protocolos específicos que orientem o profissional cirurgião-dentista para o uso de terapias à base de plantas medicinais e/ou fitoterápicos, como no caso do Cymbopogon citratus (capim-limão). Portanto, são necessários mais estudos para explicar e fundamentar melhor os efeitos do capim-limão na odontologia.

Introduction: Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) is an herbaceous species belonging to the Poaceae family, which includes approximately 500 genera and 8,000 species. Objectives: To analyze the available scientific evidence about therapeutic applications of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) in Dentistry over the past ten years. Methods: This is an integrative literature review, which involved the following steps: elaboration of the guiding question, establishment of keywords and criteria for inclusion and exclusion of articles, selection and critical analysis of articles, results, discussion, and conclusion. Results: 8% of the articles found and analyzed in this integrative literature review demonstrated that Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) has therapeutic potential because its antimicrobial properties, being considered beneficial and promising in the inhibition of bacterial and fungal dental colonizing pathogens, in addition presents low cytotoxicity. Conclusion: Despite the existence of several in vitro studies that demonstrate the efficacy and safety of natural compounds utilization, there are few specific protocols guiding the dental professional about using based therapies of medicinal and/or phytotherapeutic plants, as in the case of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass). Therefore, more studies are necessary to explain and provide a better validation of lemon grass effects in the dentistry practice.

Effect of Spice form and Extraction Period on Total Phenolic Content of Selected Ugandan Spices

Introduction: Spice consumption is one of the globally recognized healthy nutritional practices. Most spices contain phenolic compounds that may prevent or prolong the onset of non-communicable diseases. The harvesting, processing and preparation procedures of such spices may influence the phenolic amount extracted and eventual biological availability. Literature about how extraction period and spice form affects total phenolic content yield in water infusions is scanty. Aim: This study determined the effect of spice form and length of extraction time on the total phenolic content (TPC) yield of the selected Ugandan spices infused in water. Methods: Samples of Ocimum gratissimum, Allium sativum, Cymbopogon citratus and Zingiber officinale, were collected in triplicates from Kanungu, Bushenyi and Lugazi Districts, in Uganda. Fresh and dry samples of these spices were infused in hot water for four minutes and 40 minutes and sieved with Whatman paper, No. 1. Phenolic content was measured with a spectrophotometer at Makerere University, Biochemistry Department, following Folin-ciocalteu method, using gallic acid as the reference standard. Results were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 8.0.1 software. Results: Higher TPC yield was generally observed in dry samples compared to the flesh ones and 40-minute extracts of both fresh and dry samples also had higher TPC content compared to the four minutes ones. The highest TPC yield was observed in Cymbopogon citratus (12.21±0.75 mg GAE/g) among the dry samples and Ocimum gratissimum (10.02±2.45 mg GAE/g) among the fresh samples, extracted for 40 minutes. Conclusion: Longer extraction time and sample dryness maximize TPC yield. Ocimum gratissimum and Cymbopogon citratus may benefit consumers by improving their antioxidant status.

Avaliação in vitro de formulações do óleo essencial de citronela (Cymbopogon nardus) sobre propriedades biológicas, físicas e mecânicas de resina acrílica para prótese dentária / In vitro evaluation of citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) essential oil formulations on biological, physical and mechanical properties of acrylic resin for dental prosthesis

O controle de formação de biofilme deve ser promovido por meio de técnicas diárias de higienização, sendo uma delas o uso de soluções de desinfecção. Dentre as soluções químicas comercialmente disponíveis, algumas podem ocasionar efeitos adversos quando utilizadas em longo prazo. Dessa forma, a busca por métodos alternativos de desinfecção, com soluções que não alterem as propriedades do material e que sejam inertes para o seu usuário torna-se essencial. Este estudo teve como objetivos: avaliar in vitro, a ação antifúngica de formulações de 5 mg/mL à base do óleo de citronela em biofilmes mistos de espécie de Candida em resina acrílica ativada termicamente (RAAT) para base protética por meio de contagem do número de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC/mL), em dois tempos de exposição (15 e 30 minutos) e avaliar a citotoxicidade das formulações em células da linhagem epitelial HaCat, e verificar a ação destas formulações de citronela a 5 mg/mL na alteração de propriedades físicas e mecânicas de amostras de RAAT. Inicialmente, foram feitas as formulações à base de citronela em forma de emulsão e nanoemulsão. Em seguida, por meio de ensaios de microdiluição em caldo, foi obtida a concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) e concentração fungicida mínima (CFM) das cepas de Candida testadas. Foram confeccionadas amostras de RAAT para a realização dos ensaios, sendo 96 amostras para o ensaio de biofilme, divididas de acordo com os grupos: GI - controle negativo (Biofilme misto C. albicans ATCC + C. glabrata ATCC + C. albicans oral 6892 + C. albicans oral 7037); GII- Nanoemulsão de Citronela 5mg/mL; GIIIControle da Nanoemulsão (Tween 20); GIV- Emulsão de Citronela 5mg/mL; GV- Controle da Emulsão (Goma Xantana); GVI- Clorexidina 0,12% (Periogard), e 20 para o ensaio de viabilidade celular, divididas nos grupos: GI- Nanoemulsão de Citronela 5mg/mL; GII- Controle da Nanoemulsão (Tween 20); GIII- Emulsão de Citronela 5mg/mL; GIV- Controle da Emulsão (Goma Xantana); GV- Clorexidina 0,12% (Periogard). Biofilmes mistos de Candida foram formados sobre as superfícies das amostras, e foram quantificados por meio de contagem de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFCs). Para o teste de viabilidade celular utilizou-se células epiteliais da linhagem HaCaT, avaliadas através da coloração com resazurina. Para avaliação das propriedades físicas e mecânicas foram confeccionadas 50 amostras retangulares e 50 circulares de RAAT, separadas aleatoriamente em 5 grupos, de acordo com a formulação utilizada: GI ­ controle (água destilada); GII ­ saliva artificial; GIII ­ nanoemulsão de citronela a 5mg/mL; GIV - emulsão de citronela a 5mg/mL e GV - Clorexidina 0,12% (Periogard). As amostras foram imersas nas respectivas formulações, simulando a desinfecção de próteses dentarias pelo período de 30 minutos diários, durante 6 meses. Após este período, foi feita a análise da alteração de rugosidade de superfície (Ra - µm), estabilidade de cor (CIEDE 2000), avaliação da microdureza Knoop e resistência a flexão (MPa) das amostras. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos às análises estatísticas (p< 0,05). As formulações fitoterápicas à base de citronela apresentaram valores de CIM e CFM que variaram entre 0,156-1 mg/mL sobre as espécies de Candida e inibiram o crescimento do biofilme misto, apresentando uma redução estatisticamente significativa na contagem de UFC/mL, de até 2,7 Log destes fungos, principalmente quando submetidas ao tempo de exposição de 30 minutos. As formulações fitoterápicas testadas não apresentaram diferenças estatísticas entre si, apresentando viabilidade da célula HaCaT maior que 70%, diferentemente da clorexidina a 0,12%. Não houve diferença nos valores médios de rugosidade de superfície em nenhum dos grupos após serem submetidos à imersão nas formulações testes, com exceção do grupo controle, que apresentou diferença estatística significativa na rugosidade de superfície após o período de imersão. Nos valores de alteração de cor (ΔE00) foi possível observar que não houve diferença estatística significativa entre os grupos experimentais antes e após serem submetidos a imersão nas formulações testes. Nos valores de microdureza Knoop houve diferença estatística significativa apenas entre o grupo controle e o grupo emulsão de citronela. Para os dados de resistência flexural, módulo de elasticidade, força máxima e alongamento não houve diferença estatística significativa entre os grupos após imersão. Em suma, concluiu-se que as formulações fitoterápicas à base de citronela apresentaram efeito antifúngico sobre as diferentes espécies de Candida em superfície de resina acrílica para próteses dentárias, não apresentaram efeito citotóxico sobre células da linhagem epitelial, e se mostraram seguras como formulações antissépticas no que se refere às propriedades físicas e mecânicas estudadas, sendo potencialmente promissoras para serem indicadas como soluções desinfetantes para próteses dentárias(AU)

The control of biofilm formation should be promoted through daily hygiene techniques such as the use of disinfection solutions. Among the commercially available chemical solutions, some can lead to adverse effects in long-term use. Thus, the search for alternative methods of disinfection with solutions that do not interfere with properties of the material and those inert to the user becomes essential. This study aimed to: evaluate, in vitro, the antifungal effect of 5 mg/mL formulations based on citronella oil on mixed biofilms of Candida species in thermally activated acrylic resin (TAAR) for prosthetic base by counting the number of colony forming units (CFU/mL), in two exposure times (15 and 30 minutes) and to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the formulations in cells of the HaCat epithelial lineage, and to verify the action of these formulations of citronella at 5 mg/mL in the alteration of physical and mechanical properties of TAAR samples. Initially, citronella-based formulations were prepared as emulsion and nanoemulsion. Then, by means of broth microdilution assays, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of the tested Candida strains were obtained. For the biofilm test, 96 TAAR samples were prepared and assigned to the groups, as follows: GI - negative control (Mixed biofilm C. albicans ATCC + C. glabrata ATCC + C. albicans oral 6892 + C. albicans oral 7037); GII- Citronella Nanoemulsion 5mg/mL; GIII- Nanoemulsion Control (Tween 20); GIV- Citronella Emulsion 5mg/mL; GVEmulsion Control (Xanthan Gum); GVI- Chlorhexidine 0,12% (Periogard). For the cell viability assay, 20 samples were prepared and assigned to the following groups: GI- Citronella Nanoemulsion 5mg/mL; GII- Nanoemulsion Control (Tween 20); GIII- Citronella Emulsion 5mg/mL; GIV- Emulsion Control (Xanthan Gum); GV- Chlorhexidine 0,12% (Periogard). Mixed Candida biofilms were formed on the surfaces of the samples, and were quantified by counting colony forming units (CFUs). For the cell viability test, epithelial cells of the HaCaT lineage were used, evaluated by staining with resazurin. To evaluate the physical and mechanical properties, 50 rectangular and 50 circular samples of TAAR were prepared and randomly assigned into 5 groups, according to the formulation used: GI ­ control (distilled water); GII ­ artificial saliva; GIII ­ citronella nanoemulsion at 5mg/mL; GIV ­ citronella emulsion at 5mg/mL and GV ­ chlorhexidine 0,12% (Periogard). The samples were immersed in the respective formulations, simulating the disinfection of dental prostheses for a period of 30 minutes daily, for 6 months. After this period, the analysis of surface roughness change (Ra - µm), color stability (CIEDE 2000), evaluation of Knoop microhardness and flexural strength (MPa) of the samples was performed. The data obtained were submitted to statistical analysis (p< 0,05). The phytotherapic formulations based on citronella presented MIC and MFC values that varied between 0,156-1 mg/mL on Candida species and inhibited the growth of mixed biofilm, showing a statistically significant reduction in the CFU/mL counts, up to 2,7 Log of these fungi, mainly when subjected to an exposure time of 30 minutes. The phytotherapic formulations tested did not show statistical differences between them, showing HaCaT cell viability greater than 70%, unlike 0,12% chlorhexidine. There was no difference in the mean values of surface roughness in any of the groups after being subjected to immersion in the test formulations, except for the control group, that presented a statistically significant difference in surface roughness after the immersion period. Regarding color change (ΔE00) it was possible to observe that there was no statistically significant difference between the experimental groups before and after being subjected to immersion in the test formulations. In the Knoop microhardness values, there was a statistically significant difference only between the control group and the citronella emulsion group. For data on flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, maximum force and stretching, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups after immersion. In summary, it can be concluded that phytotherapic formulations based on citronella had an antifungal effect on different Candida species on acrylic resin surfaces for dental prostheses, besides not presenting a cytotoxic effect on cells of the epithelial lineage, and proved to be safe as antiseptic formulations in the which refers to the physical and mechanical properties studied, being potentially promising to be indicated as disinfectant solutions for dental prostheses(AU)

Chemical constituents, larvicidal activity and molluscicidal from fresh leaves of Alpinia zerumbet (Pers.) and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf / Constituyentes químicos, actividad larvicida y molusquicida de hojas frescas de Alpinia zerumbet (Pers.) y Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf / Constituintes químicos, atividade larvicida e moluscicida de folhas frescas de Alpinia zerumbet (Pers.) e Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf

SUMMARY Introduction: This study evaluated the chemical characterization, larvicidal activity and molluscicidal activity in front of the snail transmitting schistosomes (Biomphalaria glabrata) of the essential oils of Alpinia zerumbet and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf. The essential oils (EOs) were extracted by hydrodistillation, with chemical characterization through Gas Chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The physical-chemical parameters were determined according to the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia. The toxicity test followed the bioassay with Artemia salina Leach, the EOs approved in this assay followed to evaluate their biological properties. Methodology: For molluscicidal activity, the methodology recommended by the WHO was performed, and the LC50 of the EOs was performed for their action in the face of the snail obtained by the Reed&Muench method. Both EOs showed low toxicity, and thus were evaluated for the biological properties larvicidal and molluscicidal. Alpinia zerumbet EO showed molluscicidal activity with LC50 of40.63 mg-L-1 and Cymbopogon citratus EO 33.94 mg-L-1. Results: Both EOs showed larvicidal and molluscicidal potentials against the organisms tested, showing satisfactory results for their action. The results indicate that the evaluated EOs are composed of substances that promote and encourage their application due to their potential for molluscicidal and larvicidal biological activity.

RESUMEN Introducción: Este estudio evaluó la caracterización química, la actividad larvicida y la actividad molusquicida frente al caracol que transmite esquistosomas (Biomphalaria glabrata) de los aceites esenciales de Alpinia zerumbet y Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf. Los aceites esenciales (AE) fueron extraídos por hidrodestilación, con caracterización química a través de cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (GC-MS). Los parámetros físico-químicos se determinaron de acuerdo con la Farmacopea Brasileña. La prueba de toxicidad siguió al bioensayo con Artemia salina Leach, los AE probados en este ensayo se evaluaron a continuación en sus propiedades biológicas. Metodología: Para la actividad molusquicida se empleó la metodología recomendada por la OMS, y la LC50 de las AE se realizó para su acción frente al caracol obtenido por el método Reed&Muench. Ambos AE mostraron baja toxicidad, y por lo tanto fueron evaluados para las propiedades biológicas larvicidas y molusquicidas. Alpinia zerumbet AE mostró actividad molusquicida con LC50 de 40,63 mg-L'1 y Cymbopogon citratus EO 33,94 mg-L-1. Resultados: Ambos AE mostraron potenciales larvicidas y molusquicidas contra los organismos probados, mostrando resultados satisfactorios para su acción. Los resultados indican que los AE evaluados están compuestos de sustancias que promueven y fomentan su aplicación debido a su potencial para la actividad biológica molusquicida y larvicida.

RESUMO Introdução: Este estudo avaliou a caracterização química, atividade larvicida e ativi-dade moluscicida contra o caramujo transmissor de esquistossomos (Biomphalaria glabrata) dos óleos essenciais de Alpinia zerumbet e Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf. Os óleos essenciais (AE) foram extraídos por hidrodestilação, com caracterização química por cromatografia gasosa acoplada a espectrometria de massas (CG-EM). Os parâmetros físico-químicos foram determinados de acordo com a Farmacopéia Brasileira. O teste de toxicidade seguiu o bioensaio com Artemia salina Leach, os EA testados neste teste foram então avaliados quanto às suas propriedades biológicas. Metodologia: Para a atividade moluscicida, foi utilizada a metodologia recomendada pela OMS, e o LC50 do EA foi realizado para sua ação contra o caramujo obtido pelo método de Reed & Muench. Ambos os AE apresentaram baixa toxicidade e, portanto, foram avaliados quanto às propriedades biológicas larvicidas e moluscicidas. Alpinia zerumbet AE apresentou atividade moluscicida com CL50 de 40,63 mg-L-1 e Cymbopogon citratus EO 33,94 mg-L-1. Resultados: Ambos os AE apresentaram potencial larvicida e moluscicida contra os organismos testados, apresentando resultados satisfatórios para sua ação. Os resultados indicam que os AE avaliados são compostos por substâncias que promovem e estimulam sua aplicação devido ao seu potencial de atividade biológica moluscicida e larvicida.

Effect of essential oils on the development of Colletotrichum sp. fungus in fragments of Feijoa sellowiana fruits

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the essential oils of Syzygium aromaticum, Cymbopogon citratus, Eucalyptus citriodora and Rosmarinus officinalis on the mycelial development of the fungus Colletotrichum sp. in fragments of Feijoa sellowiana fruits. The essential oils were incorporated in the PDA (Potato-Dextrose-Agar) medium in the concentrations of 250, 500 and 1000 ppm, 0 ppm (PDA only) (negative control), and fungicide fluazinam 1% (positive control). The area under the mycelial growth curve (AUMGC) and percent inhibition of mycelial growth (PIMG) were calculated. In the second evaluation, fruits fragments bordering the disease symptom were immersed in essential oils aqueous solution of S. aromaticum, C. citratus, and E. citriodora, at the concentration of 5000 ppm, 0 ppm (water only - negative control) and fluazinam 1% (positive control). The immersion times in the treatments were: 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 hours, with subsequent incubation in Agar-Agar medium at 25°C. This evaluation was performed daily for 15 days, observing the moment of fungal germination through the emission of the mycelium. It was verified from the obtained results that all treatments reduced the fungal growth, and the essential oils of C. citratus and S. aromaticum totally inhibited its growth from the dose 500 and 1000 ppm, respectively. Regarding the test on fruit fragments, the essential oil of S. aromaticum at the immersion times of 12 and 24 hours was effective in inhibiting the fungus until the 15th day of evaluation.

Cymbopogon giganteus Chiov. essential oil: Direct effects or activity in combination with antibiotics against multi-drug resistant bacteria

The discovery of new antimicrobial agents is necessary due to the emergence of multi-drug bacterialresistance. The aim of this work was to study the direct and indirect antimicrobial activity of a Beninesesample of Cymbopogon giganteus essential oil (EOCG) on multi-drug resistant clinical bacteria, its chemicalcomposition, and its cytotoxicity. Direct antimicrobial activity was tested by determination of minimalinhibitory concentration (MIC), and indirect activity, by determining Fractional Inhibitory ConcentrationIndex using checkerboard [fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICI); synergy: FICI ≤ 0.5; additivity:0.5 < FICI ≤ 1]. EOCG composition was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID and cytotoxicity was determinedby 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphényltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. p-Menthane derivatives(54.87%) and limonene (12.07%) were detected as major compounds by GC analysis. Our results confirmedthe direct antimicrobial activity of EOCG, but here on clinical resistant strains (MIC from 0.125% v/v to 0.5%v/v). We also show synergistic effects between EOCG and amoxicillin with FICI ranges of 0.12–0.5 againsttwo Escherichia coli resistant clinical strains, synergistic to additive effects between EOCG and colistin oroxacillin/ampicillin, respectively, against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA544 and Staphylococcus epidermidisSECN361 (two resistant clinical isolates). Our results also indicate that EOCG had low cytotoxicity(IC50: 67.06 ± 2.694 μg/ml).

Investigating Drug Properties Of Bioactive Compounds Of Cymbopogon Citratus By Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion/Toxicity And Molecular Docking Analysis Against Apolipoprotein N-Acyl Transferase

Delivering a potential drug is a predominant challenge in medicinal chemistry.in this study, bio organic compounds of Cymbopogon citratus was screened by analysing physiochemical properties like solubility, permeability, efficacy, toxicity, and metabolic stability. The optimization of drug potential against virulent protein was calculated by using docking algorithm Autodock 4.2.3. Structure based ligand docking reveals that the compounds having better inhibition potential against virulent enzymes with insoluble and impermeable activities. The organic compounds of Cymbopogon citratus were screened using Lipinski rule of five and ADME/T prediction for drug likeliness. The structure based ligand docking was done between bioactive compounds of plant and virulent protein that cause diseases. The interaction was visualized using Discovery studio and was studies. The molecular docking of bioactive compounds resulted in better inhibition potential with controlled lipophilicity level, without causing toxicity that harms the natural habitat of humans. The compounds, 1,3,4-trimethyl -3cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde exhibit binding energy -4.70 Kcal/mol followed by β-myrcene – 4.35 Kcal/mol and Geraniol -4.35 Kcal/mol. Hence, structure based ligand docking and in silico ADME/T studies revealed that the compounds have better inhibition potential against Apolipoprotein by improving the prediction of drug compounds.

Fungicidal potential of essential oils in control of Fusarium spp. and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum / Potencial fungicida de óleos essenciais no controle de Fusarium spp. e Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

The use of highly toxic pesticides to control soil pathogens, such as Fusarium spp. and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum has generated concern, due to the irreversible impacts caused on the environment, in addition to selecting resistant isolates. In this way, essential oils appear as an efficient alternative in control of diseases. Facing the problem of soil pathogens control and high antimicrobial fungicide that essential oils present, this work aimed to evaluate the in vitro fungicidal potential of essential oils in control of Fusarium spp. and S. sclerotiorum. A completely randomized design, factorial scheme 2×4×8 was used, with two isolates (Fusarium spp. and S. sclerotiorum), four essential oils (Aloysia citriodora, Cymbopogon winterianus, Lippia alba and Ocimum americanum), eight essential oil concentrations (0.0; 0.2; 0.4; 0.6; 0.8; 1.0; 1.2 and 1.4 ?L·mL-1), and ten replicates. The essential oils inhibited mycelial growth of the fungi in different concentrations, being their potential justified by the presence of antifungal chemical compounds. Essential oils of A. citriodora, C. winterianus, L. alba and O. americanum present high fungicidal potential, being viable alternatives for formulation of commercial products, boosting the pesticides industry.(AU)

O uso de pesticidas com alta toxicidade para controlar patógenos do solo, como Fusarium spp. e Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, tem gerado preocupação, devido aos impactos irreversíveis causados no meio ambiente, além de selecionar isolados resistentes. Dessa forma, os óleos essenciais surgem como uma alternativa eficiente no controle de doenças. Diante da problemática de controle de patógenos do solo e alto potencial antimicrobiano que os óleos essenciais possuem, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial fungicida de óleos essenciais no controle de Fusarium spp. e S. sclerotiorum, in vitro. Utilizou-se um delineamento inteiramente randomizado, esquema fatorial 2×4×8, com dois isolados (Fusarium spp. e S. sclerotiorum), quatro óleos essenciais (Aloysia citriodora, Cymbopogon winterianus, Lippia alba e Ocimum americanum) e oito concentrações de óleo essencial (0,0; 0,2; 0,4; 0,6; 0,8; 1,0; 1,2 e 1,4 ?L·mL-1), com dez repetições. Os óleos essenciais inibiram o crescimento micelial dos fungos em diferentes concentrações, sendo seu potencial justificado pela presença de compostos químicos antifúngicos. Os óleos essenciais de A. citriodora, C. winterianus, L. alba e O. americanum apresentam alto potencial fungicida, sendo alternativas viáveis para formulação de produtos comerciais, impulsionando a indústria de agrotóxicos.(AU)

Cymbopogon citratus aqueous leaf extract attenuates neurobehavioral and biochemical changes induced by social defeat stress in mice / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Psychosocial stress has been implicated in the genesis of psychiatric disorders such as memory deficits, depression, anxiety and addiction. Aqueous leaf extract of Cymbopogon citratus (CYC) otherwise known as lemongrass tea has antidepressant, anxiolytic and anti-amnesic effects in rodents. This study was designed to evaluate if C. citratus could reverse the neurobehavioral and biochemical derangements induced by social defeat stress (SDS) in the resident/intruder paradigm. Methods: Intruder male mice were divided into five groups (n = 7): group 1 received saline (10 mL/kg, p.o.; non-stress control), group 2 also received saline (10 mL/kg, p.o.; SDS control) while groups 3–5 had C. citratus (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) daily for 14 d. The SDS was carried out 30 min after each treatment from day 7 to day 14 by exposing each intruder mouse in groups 2–5 to a 10 min confrontation in the home cage of an aggressive resident counterpart. The neurobehavioral features (spontaneous motor activity-SMA, anxiety, memory, social avoidance and depression were then evaluated. The concentrations of nitrite, malondialdehyde and glutathione as well as acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain tissues were also determined. Results: C. citratus (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) attenuated hypolocomotion, heightened anxiety, depressive-like symptom, memory deficit and social avoidance induced by SDS. The altered levels of oxidative stress and acetyl-cholinesterase in SDS-mice were positively modulated by C. citratus. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that C. citratus might mitigate psychosocial stress-induced neurologic diseases in susceptible individuals.

Medicinal plants for Dermatophytosis: Senna Alata (Linn.) Roxb., Allium sativum (Linn.) and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf

@#Skin mycoses have been a major problem affecting millions around the globe. The threat of resistance to synthetic antifungal agents however is a major obstacle in its management. As an alternative to these, a thorough investigation of natural products is being performed to develop medicines that are effective and safe. In this review, we described three antifungal herbal plants that are available in the Philippines, namely Senna alata (Linn.) Roxb. (akapulko), Allium sativum (Linn.) (garlic) and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf (lemongrass). In vitro studies showed promising results that can be used as a basis for drug formulation for community use as well as commercial products. So far, there have been no reported toxic effects from these plants. The common ground for these plants’ mechanism of action was the effect of their phytochemicals in the cell membrane and cell wall organelles, inhibition of major biosynthetic pathways, and prevention of biofilm formation. Formulation and clinical studies also revealed promising results comparable to the synthetic ones.

Avaliação antifúngica de uma solução à base de glucoprotamina e do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratusem leveduras de ambiente hospitalar / Antifungal action of a solution based on the glucoprotamine and the essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus on the yeasts from the hospital environment

O objetivo deste estudo foi de avaliar a atividade antifúngica de uma solução à base de glucoprotamina (GLU) e de óleo essencial (OE) de Cymbopogon citratus. Candida tropicalis, Claviceps lusitaniae, Meyerozyma (Pichia) guilliermondii e Candida parapsilosis foram isoladas das superfícies de um hospital público de Pelotas, RS. A atividade antifúngica da GLU foi analisada nas concentrações de 0,25% a 0,0005%, e para o OE, obtido por Clevenger, foi utilizado nas concentrações de 17.500 µg/mL a 0,034 µg/mL. A análise cromatográfica foi efetuada por meio de CG/MS. A atividade anti-Candidafoi analisada pela técnica de Microdiluição em Caldo para determinar a Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e a Concentração Fungicida Mínima (CFM). A inibição pela GLU ocorreu em todas as concentrações testadas, enquanto o OE apresentou resultado de CIM que oscilou de 2846 a 5450 µg/mL, e CFM de 2853 a 5330 µg/mL. Alfa­citral (37,10%), beta­citral (32,77% e beta-mirceno (18,75%) foram considerados como os compostos majoritários do OE. Os dados obtidos neste trabalho destacam a atividade antifúngica da solução à base de GLU e do OE de C. citratus na eliminação dos isolados de Candida spp ambientais. (AU)

This study aimed at evaluating the antifungal activity of glucoprotamine solution (GLU) and the essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus (EO). Candida tropicalis, Claviceps lusitaniae, Meyerozyma(Pichia) guilliermondii and Candida parapsilosis were isolated from the samples, which were collected from the surfaces of a public hospital located in Pelotas, RS. The antifungal activity of GLU was detected at the concentrations from 0.25% to 0.0005%, while the EO, by Clevenger, was used at concentrations from 17.500 µg mL to 0.034 µg/mL. Chemical analysis was determined by GC/MS. The anti-Candida activity was performed by using Broth Microdilution technique to determine the Minimal Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) and the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The inhibition by GLU occurred at all of the tested concentrations, whereas the EO showed MIC ranging from 2.846 to 5.450 µ/mL and the CFM from 2.853 to 5.330 µg/mL. Alfa­citral (37.10%), beta­citral (32.77%) and beta-mirceno (18.75%) were the majority compounds in the EO. The data obtained in the present study highlight the effectiveness of the solution based on GLU and EO for eliminating the environmental isolates of Candida spp. (AU)

Avaliação antifúngica de uma solução à base de glucoprotamina e do óleo essencial de Cymbopogon citratus em leveduras de ambiente hospitalar / Antifungal action of a solution based on the glucoprotamine and the essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus on the yeasts from the hospital environment

O objetivo deste estudo foi de avaliar a atividade antifúngica de uma solução à base de glucoprotamina (GLU) e de óleo essencial (OE) de Cymbopogon citratus. Candida tropicalis, Claviceps lusitaniae, Meyerozyma (Pichia) guilliermondii e Candida parapsilosis foram isoladas das superfícies de um hospital público de Pelotas, RS. A atividade antifúngica da GLU foi analisada nas concentrações de 0,25% a 0,0005%, e para o OE, obtido por Clevenger, foi utilizado nas concentrações de 17.500 μg/mL a 0,034 μg/mL. A análise cromatográfica foi efetuada por meio de CG/MS. A atividade anti-Candida foi analisada pela técnica de Microdiluição em Caldo para determinar a Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e a Concentração Fungicida Mínima (CFM). A inibição pela GLU ocorreu em todas as concentrações testadas, enquanto o OE apresentou resultado de CIM que oscilou de 2846 a 5450 μg/mL, e CFM de 2853 a 5330 μg/mL. Alfa–citral (37,10%), beta–citral (32,77% e beta-mirceno (18,75%) foram considerados como os compostos majoritários do OE. Os dados obtidos neste trabalho destacam a atividade antifúngica da solução à base de GLU e do OE de C. citratus na eliminação dos isolados de Candida spp ambientais.

This study aimed at evaluating the antifungal activity of glucoprotamine solution (GLU) and the essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus (EO). Candida tropicalis, Claviceps lusitaniae, Meyerozyma (Pichia) guilliermondii and Candida parapsilosis were isolated from the samples, which were collected from the surfaces of a public hospital located in Pelotas, RS. The antifungal activity of GLU was detected at the concentrations from 0.25% to 0.0005%, while the EO, by Clevenger, was used at concentrations from 17.500 μg mL to 0.034 μg/mL. Chemical analysis was determined by GC/MS. The anti-Candida activity was performed by using Broth Microdilution technique to determine the Minimal Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) and the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The inhibition by GLU occurred at all of the tested concentrations, whereas the EO showed MIC ranging from 2.846 to 5.450 μ/mL and the CFM from 2.853 to 5.330 μg/mL. Alfa–citral (37.10%), beta–citral (32.77%) and beta-mirceno (18.75%) were the majority compounds in the EO. The data obtained in the present study highlight the effectiveness of the solution based on GLU and EO for eliminating the environmental isolates of Candida spp.

Toxicological and pharmacological profiling of organically and non-organically cultivated Cymbopogon citratus

Background: With the rapid depletion of forests, impairing the availability of raw drugs, Ayurveda, hasreached a very critical phase. Consequently, cultivation of medicinal plants is essential to ensure theiravailability to the industry. In view of the above concept, organic farming of medicinal plants needsscientific validity.Objectives: The present study includes the organic and non-organic cultivation of Cymbopogon citratus,followed by toxicological and pharmacological profiling of extracts.Materials and methods: C. citratus was simultaneously cultivated organically (OCC) and non-organically(NCC). Toxicity profile of aqueous extracts was recorded on prokaryotes using bioluminescent bacteria,Vibrio harveyi and evaluated its type 2 anti-diabetic activity.Results: OCC have shown the higher mean values of height, number of germplasms and root lengthscompared to NCC. The higher level of toxicity was shown by NCC with decrease in bioluminescence withincreasing concentration of extract. In acute type 2 anti-diabetic study, OCC showed prominent decreasein blood glucose at postprandial condition (6th h) (48.86% OCC-200). The order of sub-chronic antidiabetic activity was observed as positive control > OCC-200 > NCC-200, while OCC at 200 mg/kg corrected the altered lipid profile and antioxidant status with significant increase in body weights of animals. Histopathological examination of pancreas showed the enlargement of pancreatic islets andformation of neo islets with degenerative changes in OCC treated animals.Conclusion: The study confirms that organically grown C. citratus is better in terms of nourishment,biological activity and safety measures.© 2017 Transdisciplinary University, Bangalore and World Ayurveda Foundation. Publishing Services byElsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity of Essential Oil of Cymbopogon citratus against Oral Microflora Associated with Dental Plaque

Aims: Dental biofilms are complex, multi-species microorganism communities that inhabit the oral cavity in the form of dental plaque which causes dental caries and periodontal diseases. The present study aims to explore the potential of Lemon Grass Essential Oil (LGEO) extracted from Cymbopogon citratus as antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent against the microorganisms responsible for dental plaque. Study Design: Observational and comparison study. Place and Duration of Study: Research centre, Department of Microbiology, Abasaheb Garware college, Pune, India, between Dec 2012 to Jan 2017. Methodology: Three bacterial species primarily responsible for the biofilm formation were isolated from dental plaque and identified using 16S ribosomal RNA sequences. Five most primary colonizer of dental plaque organisms were acquired from the Microbial Type Culture Collection cultures. Antimicrobial as well as antibiofilm activity of LGEO, was determined against these eight biofilm forming microorganism. The antibiofilm activity of LGEO was evaluated against oral flora individually, as well as in consortium. Results: LGEO displayed excellent antimicrobial activity against eight test organisms associated with dental plaque, representing four genera namely Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Lactobacillus and Candida. MIC of LGEO for all test organisms was determined as 1.5% (v/v). The LGEO was found to exhibit as high as 76% biofilm inhibitory activity even in the consortium, where the biofilm formation sometimes has been noted to be comparatively more than that of the individual organism, making LGEO a very promising antibiofilm agent. Conclusion: LGEO present in rampantly grown plant, Cymbopogon citratus, has remarkable antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against the dental plaque organism and thus can be the economical, convenient, natural and nontoxic herbal material to effectively control the oral microflora associated with dental plaque.

Cell Membrane Stability and Relative Water Content of Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon Grass)

In this research the cell membrane stability (CMS), relative water content (RWC) and effect of different water interval on Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) was assessed. The cell membrane stability and relative water content of the plant shows the physiological activity of the plant. The plant sample was subjected to three different watering regimes viz: one, two- and three-days intervals with a control sample irrigated daily for a period of twelve months. Uniform stalk of lemon grass plants were planted into a depth of 7.5 cm composted soil, each treatment was made in triplicate. The evaluated growth parameters where height of the plant, number of leaves and tillers, which were taken weekly for period of twelve months (year). The height shows a significant difference from first to twelfth month after planting. The height of the plant increases simultaneous with the age of the plant. First month after planting show significant difference in height of sample watered daily and treated samples. The results shows that the RWC (07.14%) and CMS (52.58%) was low in samples under water stress respectively when compared to well-watered samples (55.41%). No significant difference was observed between samples under one, two and three days interval. The number of leaves differs significantly in the first MAP except in the samples watered daily and three days interval. Maximum number of leaves was achieved at twelfth MAP under one day interval (137.33) followed by samples watered daily (126) and two days interval, while three days interval has the least number of leaves (leaf number). The number of tillers shows significant differences between the means at fifth and sixth MAP, (fifth MAP = 73.33 and sixth MAP = 126) and the treatments under one day intervals (fifth MAP = 18.33 and sixth MAP = 35.67). In the research, samples watered daily and under one day intervals shows high productivity when compared to the remaining treatment.