Myrtus communis leaves: source of bio - actives, traditional use, their biological properties, and prospects / Hojas de Myrtus communis: fuente de bioactivos, uso tradicional, sus propiedades biológicas y perspectivas

Myrtus communis L., commonly known as true myrtle, is a medicinal plant native to the Mediterranean area. Since ancient times, the inhabitant s of this area have been using it for its cultural and medicinal properties. Because of the vast diversity of biomolecules in its aerial parts, it exhibits several biological properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. This review retrospect the research on the source, biological activities with empirical evidence, chemical composition, applications, and cellular targets of extracts and essential oils obtained from M. communis leaves, which provides a perspective for further studies on the applications and formulations of extract and EO of M. communis leaves. The efficacy of constituents' individually, in association with other bioactive constituents, or in combination with available commercial drugs would provide insights in to the development of these bio - actives as future drugs and their evolving future potential applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and aroma industries.

Myrtus communis L., comúnmente conocido como arrayán verdadero, es una planta medicinal originaria de la zona mediterránea. Desde la antigüedad, los habitantes de esta zona lo utilizan por sus propiedades culturales y medicinales. Debido a la gran div ersidad de biomoléculas en sus partes aéreas, exhibe varias propiedades biológicas, incluidas propiedades antioxidantes, antimicrobianas y anticancerígenas. Esta revisión retrospectiva de la investigación sobre la fuente, las actividades biológicas con evi dencia empírica, la composición química, las aplicaciones y los objetivos celulares de los extractos y aceites esenciales obtenidos de las hojas de M. communis , lo que brinda una perspectiva para futuros estudios sobre las aplicaciones y formulaciones de l os extractos y EO de M. communis . La eficacia de los componentes individualmente, en asociación con otros componentes bioactivos o en combinación con medicamentos comerciales disponibles proporcionaría información sobre el desarrollo de estos bioactivos co mo medicamentos futuros y sus futuras aplicaciones potenciales en las industrias farmacéutica, alimentaria y aromática

Actividad repelente e insecticida de cuatro aceites esenciales de plantas recolectadas en Chocó-Colombia contra Tribolium castaneum / Repellent and insecticidal activity of four essential oils from plants recolleted in Chocó-Colombia against Tribolium castaneum

This study aimed to determine the repellent and insecticidal activity of four essential oils (EOs) from plants collected in the Chocó rain forest, Colombia, against T. castaneum . Conventional hydrodistillation was used to obtain the EOs. The repellent and insecticidal activities were evaluated by the preference area and gas dispersion methods, espectively. Statistical differences (p<0.05) were determined by applying a student's t-test. EOs of Siparuna guianensis, S. conica, Piper marginatum, and Nectandra acutifolia showed excellent repellent properties as the main findings, highlighting S. conicaEO with 84% repellency (1-hµL/cm2), while P. marginatum showed to be bioactive to the dose of 500 µL/mL (72 h), inducing mortality of 100% of the exposed population. In conclusion, the results evidenced the repellent properties of the EOs evaluated against T. castaneum , which allows us to conclude that these plant species are potential natural sources producing bio-repellents that contribute to the integrated control of T. castaneum.

Se evaluaron cuatro aceites esenciales (AEs) de plantas recolectadas en la selva pluvial del Chocó, Colombia, para determinar su actividad repelente e insecticida contra T. castaneum. Los AEs fueron obtenidos por hidrodestilación convencional. Las actividades repelentes e insecticidas se evaluaron por los métodos de área de preferencia y dispersión de gas, respectivamente. Las diferencias significativas (p<0,05) fueron determinadas aplicando una prueba t de student. Los AEs de Siparuna guianensis, S. conica, Piper marginatum y Nectandra acutifolia mostraron excelentes propiedades repelentes, destacando el AE de S. conicacon un 84% de repelencia (1µL/cm2), mientras que el AE de P. marginatummostró ser bioactivo a la dosis de 500 µL/mL (72 h) al inducir la mortalidad del 100% de la población expuesta. Se concluye que estas especies de plantas son fuentes naturales potencialmente viables para la producción de biorepelentes que contribuyan en el control integrado de T. castaneum.

Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil from the aerial parts of Chuquiraga arcuataHarling grown in the highlands of Ecuador / Composición química, actividades antioxidantes y antimicrobianas del aceite esencial de las partes aéreas de Chuquiraga arcuataHarling cultivado en las tierras altas del Ecuador

Thechemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the essential oil from aerial parts (leaves and flowers) of Chuquiraga arcuataHarling grown in the Ecuadorian Andes were studied. One hundred and twenty-six compounds were identified in the essential oil. Monoterpene hydrocarbons (45.8%) and oxygenated monoterpenes (44.1%) had the major percentages. The most abundant compounds were camphor (21.6%), myrcene (19.5%), and 1,8-cineole (13.4%). Antioxidant activity was examined using DPPH, ABTS,and FRAP assays. The essential oil had a moderate scavenging effect and reduction of ferric ion capacity through FRAP assay. Antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was observed against four pathogenic bacteria and a fungus. The essential oil exhibited activity against all microorganism strains under test, particularly against Candida albicansand Staphylococcus aureuswith MICs of 2.43-12.10 µg/mL.

Se estudió la composición química, actividades antioxidantes y antimicrobianas del aceite esencial procedente de las partes aérea (hojas y flores) de Chuquiraga arcuataHarling cultivadas en los Andes ecuatorianos. Se identificaron 126 compuestos en el aceite esencial. Los hidrocarburos monoterpénicos (45,8%) y los monoterpenos oxigenados (44,1%) tuvieron el mayor porcentaje. Los compuestos más abundantes fueron alcanfor (21,6%), mirceno (19,5%) y 1,8-cineol (13,4%). La actividadantioxidante se examinó mediante ensayos DPPH, ABTS y FRAP. El aceite esencial tuvo un efecto eliminador moderado y una reducción de la capacidad de iones férricos mediante el ensayo FRAP. Se observó actividad antimicrobiana del aceite esencial contra cuatro bacterias y un hongo patógenos. El aceite esencial mostró actividad contra todas las cepas de microorganismos bajo prueba, particularmente contra Candida albicansy Staphylococcus aureuscon CMI de 2,43-12,10 µg/mL.

Screening of essential oils against oxacillin - resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from bovine mastitis / Screening de aceites esenciales frente a Staphylococcus aureus oxacilino - resistentes extraidos de aislados de mastitis bovina

Bovine mastitis is a disease wi th far - reaching consequences for the dairy industry. Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogen that is especially resistant to antibiotics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the essential oils Lippia citriodora (Lam.), Thy mus vulgaris (L), and a mixture of the essential oils Lippia citriodora and Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v), against isolates of oxacillin - resistant Staphylococcus aureus (n=15) of positive cases of bovine mastitis. For the statistical analysis, the IBM SPSS s tatistical package was used. The mixture of essential oils ( Lippia citriodora and Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v)) obtained the most significant antimicrobial activity in relation to pure essential oils. It is therefore concluded that the mixture of these oils boosts their antimicrobial activity ( p <0.05). The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration of this mixture for the total isolations was 12 µL/L and 25 µL/mL, respectively.

La mastitis bovina es una enfermedad de gran impacto para la industria lechera. El Staphylococcus aureus es uno de los principales patógenos, especialmente aquellos resistentes a los antibióticos. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la actividad antimicrobiana de los aceites esenciales de Lippia citriodora (Lam.), Thymus vulgaris (L), y una mezcla de aceites esenciales de Lippia citriodora y Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v), frente a aislamientos clínicos de Staph ylococcus aureus oxacilino - resistentes (n=15) de mastitis bovina. Se utilizó p rograma estadístico IBM SPSS y se concluyó la diferencia significativa a un p <0.05. La mezcla de aceites esenciales ( Lippia citriodora y Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v)), obtuvo la m ayor actividad antimicrobiana en relación a los aceites esenciales puros, se concluye que la mezcla de estos aceites potencia su actividad antimicrobiana ( p <0.019). La concentración mínima inhibitoria y bactericida de esta mezcla fue del 12 µL/mL y 25 µL/m L, respectivamente, y puede ser una alternativa terapéutica.

Aceite esencial de hojas de Minthostachys mollis [HBK] Griseb. del Ecuador: extracción, composición química, capacidad antioxidante y actividad antimicrobiana / Essential oil of Minthostachys mollis [HBK] Griseb. leaves from Ecuador: extraction, chemical composition, antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity

The aim of this study was to optimize by response surface design, the extraction of the leaf essential oil (EO) from Minthostachys mollis [HBK] Griseb., grown in Ecuador, using steam distillation. The factors used were extraction time (XTIE) of 60, 105 and 150 min and plant material/water ratio (XRMA) of 1:3, 1:4 and 1:5. The optimal combination was reached with XRMA 1:5 and XTIE 150 min, obtaining a process yield of 0.67%. The chemical composition of the EO analyzed by GC - MS was determined, where the main compounds were carvacryl acetate (44.01%), carvacrol (16.51%) and menthone (8.20%). The anti oxidant capacity of EO was evaluated using the FRAP and ABTS methodologies, with an IC 50 243.21 µmol Fe 2+ /g and 0.12 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, the antimicrobial activity of EO was found against Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Salmonella enterica , Escherich ia coli and Staphylococcus aureus .

El objetivo del estudio fue optimizar, mediante un diseño de superficie respuesta, la extracción d el aceite esencial (AE) de hojas de Minthostachys mollis [HBK] Griseb. del Ecuador, mediante destilación por arrastre de vapor. Los factores fueron el tiempo de extracción (XTIE) de 60, 105 y 150 min, y relación de material vegetal/ agua destilada (XRMA) d e 1:3, 1:4 y 1:5. La combinación óptima se logró con XTIE 150 min y XRMA 1:5 para un rendimiento de 0,67%. Se determinó la composición química del AE por GC - MS donde los compuestos mayoritarios fueron acetato de carvacrilo (44,01%), carvacrol (16,51%) y me ntona (8,20%). Se evaluó la capacidad antioxidante del AE por las metodologías FRAP y ABTS, con CI 50 de 243,21 µmol Fe 2+ /g y 0,12 mg/mL, respectivamente. Además, se demostró la actividad antimicrobiana contra Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Salmonella enterica , Es cherichia coli y Staphylococcus aureus .

Chemical characterization and effects of volatile oil of Alpinia zerumbet on the quality of collagen deposition and caveolin-1 expression in a muscular fibrosis murine model / Caracterização química e efeitos do óleo volátil de Alpinia zerumbet na qualidade da deposição do colágeno e expressão da caveolina-1 em modelo murino de fibrose muscular

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of the volatile oil of Alpinia zerumbet (VOAz) on caveolin-1 gene expression and muscular fibrosis. The rats were immobilized to induce fibrosis of the gastrocnemius muscle, and they were treated with VOAz. Collagen quality was assessed by histology and the expression of the caveolin-1 (CAV-1) gene was evaluated using qPCR. Histomorphological analysis indicated a significant reduction in the perimeter, width, and intensity of collagen in the treated groups, thus showing that the oil was effective in regulating the quality of collagen at the three concentrations. The results of expression levels suggested a decrease in the lesioned group and in two treatment groups (0.0115 µg/g and 0.009 µg/g). However, with the lowest concentration (0.0065 µg/g), no significant difference was observed, with levels similar to those found in healthy tissue. Therefore, the results showed that VOAz has the potential to be a non-invasive and low-cost alternative to aid in the treatment of muscular fibrosis.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou o efeito do óleo volátil de Alpinia zerumbet (OVAz) na expressão do gene da caveolina-1 e na fibrose muscular. Os ratos foram imobilizados para induzir a fibrose do músculo gastrocnêmio, e foram tratados com OVAz. A qualidade do colágeno foi avaliada com histologia e à expressão do gene caveolina-1 (CAV-1) foi avaliada usando qPCR. A análise histomorfológica indicou uma redução significativa no perímetro, largura e intensidade do colágeno nos grupos tratados. Os resultados dos níveis de expressão sugeriram diminuição nos grupos de lesão e em dois grupos de tratamento (0,0115 µg/g e 0,009 µg/g). No entanto, com a menor concentração (0,0065 µg/g), não foi observada diferença significativa, apresentando níveis semelhantes aos encontrados em tecido saudável. O uso do OVAz foi eficaz para reverter as alterações do colágeno causadas pela fibrose, e sua menor concentração apresentou uma possível tendência de aumento na expressão do CAV-1. Portanto, os resultados mostraram que o OVAz tem potencial para ser uma alternativa não invasiva e de baixo custo para auxiliar no tratamento da fibrose muscular.

In vitro and Quantitative and Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) evaluation of the antifungal activity of terpenoid constituents of essential oils against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum / Evaluación in vitro y QSAR (Quantitative and Structure-Activity Relationship) de la actividad antifúngica de terpenoides obtenidos de aceites esenciales frente a Alternaria alternata y Fusarium oxysporum

Introducción. Los géneros Alternaria y Fusarium contienen especies patógenas para los humanos y los cultivos. Para su control, se han utilizado diversos antifúngicos. Sin embargo, su uso desmedido ha contribuido al desarrollo de agentes patógenos resistentes. Una alternativa para buscar y desarrollar nuevos agentes antimicóticos son los aceites esenciales y sus componentes principales, los cuales poseen diversas actividades biológicas de interés para la medicina y en la preservación de alimentos. Objetivo. Evaluar in vitro e in silico las actividades antifúngicas de terpenoides contra Alternaria alternata y Fusarium oxysporum. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluaron in vitro las concentraciones inhibitorias mínimas y las concentraciones fungicidas mínimas de 27 constituyentes de aceites esenciales contra A. alternata y F. oxysporum. Además, mediante algoritmos genéticos, se crearon modelos cuantitativos de la relación estructura-actividad para determinar las propiedades estructurales y fisicoquímicas relacionadas con la actividad antifúngica. Resultados. Los compuestos evaluados mostraron ser antifúngicos activos. El timol fue el compuesto con mayor actividad, con un valor de concentración inhibitoria mínima de 91.6 ± 28.8 pg/ml, tanto para Alternarla alternata como para Fusarium oxysporum. Los modelos cuantitativos de la relación estructura-actividad incluyeron la avidez por los lípidos y los fenoles como los principales grupos funcionales que contribuyen en la actividad antifúngica. Conclusión. Los terpenoides poseen actividades antifúngicas relevantes para ser incorporados en el estudio de la química medicinal. La inclusión de pruebas in silico a la evaluación in vitro es una herramienta útil para la búsqueda y el diseño racional de derivados terpénicos como posibles agentes antifúngicos.

Introduction. Fungal genera Alternaría and Fusarium include human and plant pathogenic species. Several antifungals have been used for their control, hut excessive use has contributed to resistance development in pathogens. An alternative to searching for and developing new antifungal agents is using essential oils and their main components, which have biological activities of interest in medicine and food production. Objective. To evaluate in vitro and in silico the antifungal activities of terpenoids against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum. Materials and methods. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration values of 27 constituents of essential oils used against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum were evaluated in vitro. In addition, using genetic algorithms, quantitative models of the structure-activity relationship were used to identify the structural and physicochemical properties related to antifungal activity. Results. The evaluated compounds proved to be effective antifungals. Thymol was the most active with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 91.6 ± 28.8 pg/ml for A. alternata and F. oxysporum. Quantitative structure-activity relationship models revealed the octanol-water cleavage ratio as the molecular property, and the phenols as the main functional group contributing to antifungal activity. Conclusion. Terpenoids exhibit relevant antifungal activities that should be incorporated into the study of medicinal chemistry. Inclusion of in silico assays in the in vitro evaluation is a valuable tool in the search for and rational design of terpene derivatives as new potential antifungal agents.

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)

Microencapsulação de enterocina e oleo de oregano em leitelho / Microencapsulation of the enterocin and essential oil oregano in buttermilk / Microencapsulación de enterocina y aceite esencial de orégano en suero de leche

A pesquisa busca técnicas alternativas para expansão da vida de prateleira dos alimentos, isto tem impulsionado estudos sobre a utilização de conservantes naturais, tais como as bacteriocinas e óleos essenciais, que são considerados agentes antimicrobianos naturais. No entanto estes antimicrobianos naturais, não são adicionados diretamente em produtos alimentícios, devido a alterações sensoriais e em suas características físico e química. Com avanço tecnológico da microencapsulação, tem sido um potencial em fornecer sistemas que garantem estabilidade para os antimicrobianos naturais desta forma podendo compor a matriz de alimentos. Portanto, o objetivo desse trabalho foi microencapsular a enterocina produzida por Enterococcus durans MF5 e óleo de orégano usando leitelho. Para a microencapsulação, foram realizados três tratamentos: T1 controle leitelho, T2 leitelho/enterocina (LE), e T3 leitelho/enterocina/óleo (LEO). O material foi submetido ao processo de spray dryer e foram realizados ensaios para determinar a atividade antimicrobiana do material encapsulado contra as bactérias Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria innocua e Listeria ivanovi. O rendimento da microencapsulação foi de 13,01% e 11,63% para LE e LEO, respectivamente. Os resultados apresentados nos microencapsulados LE e LEO mostraram inibição contra todas as bactérias teste, foi constatado que a microencapsulação de enterocina e óleo de orégano mantiveram seu poder antimicrobiano. A efetividade da microencapsulação foi realizada por (FTIR), onde picos de intensidade entre as amostras na região 1000 a 930 cm-¹ e 1800 a 1500 cm-¹ foram observadas. Os resultados apontam para mudança no perfil químico das amostras encapsuladas, corroborando com a hipótese que o leitelho apresentou papel encapsulante da bactericiona e óleo de orégano.Portanto a microencapsulação aumenta a eficácia antimicrobiana dos antimicrobianos.

The research seeks alternative techniques for expanding the shelf life of foods, this has driven studies on the use of natural preservatives, such as bacteriocins and essential oils, which are considered natural antimicrobial agents. However, these natural antimicrobials are not directly added to food products due to sensory changes and their physical and chemical characteristics. With technological advancement of microencap- sulation, it has been a potential to provide systems that ensure stability for natural anti- microbials in this way can compose the food matrix. Therefore, this study has an objective microencapsulated the interocin and essencial oil, used buttermilk as a encapsulating ma- terial where, T1 Buttermilk Control, T2 buttermilk/enterocin (LE), e T3 Buttermilk/en- terocin/oil (LEO). The product has been submitted to spray drier process, were conducted trials to determine antimicrobial activity. Was observed with mass yield 13,01% e 11,63% para LE e LEO. These results the microencapsulate indicate then LE e LEO there was inihibiton against bacteria tests. Was observed that the microencapsulated between enter- ocin and essential oil oregano maintained antimicrobial power. The effectiveness of the microencapsulated was performed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, where a sample in the region 1000 to 930 cm-¹ and 1800 to 1500 cm-¹ was observed. Therefore microencapsulation increases antimicrobial efficacy of antimicrobials.

La investigación busca técnicas alternativas para ampliar la vida útil de los alimentos, esto ha impulsado estudios sobre el uso de conservantes naturales, como las bacteriocinas y los aceites esenciales, que se consideran agentes antimicrobianos naturales. Sin embargo, estos antimicrobianos naturales no se añaden directamente a los productos alimentarios debido a los cambios sensoriales y a sus características físicas y químicas. Con el avance tecnológico de la microencapsulación, ha sido un potencial para proporcionar sistemas que garanticen la estabilidad de los antimicrobianos naturales de esta manera puede componer la matriz alimentaria. Por lo tanto, este estudio tiene como objetivo microencapsular la interocina y el aceite esencial, utilizando suero de leche como material encapsulante donde, T1 Suero de leche Control, T2 Suero de leche/enterocina (LE), e T3 Suero de leche/enterocina/aceite (LEO). El producto ha sido sometido al proceso de secado por pulverización, se realizaron ensayos para determinar la actividad antimicrobiana. Se observó con rendimiento de masa 13,01% e 11,63% para LE e LEO. Estos resultados indican que el microencapsulado LE e LEO fue inhibido contra las pruebas bacterianas. Se observó que el microencapsulado entre enterocina y aceite esencial de orégano mantuvo el poder antimicrobiano. La eficacia del microencapsulado fue realizada por análisis de infrarrojo transformado de Fourier (FTIR), donde fue observada una muestra en la región de 1000 a 930 cm-¹ y de 1800 a 1500 cm-¹. Por lo tanto, la microencapsulación aumenta la eficacia antimicrobiana de los antimicrobianos. PALABRAS CLAVE: Bacteriocina; Enterococcus durans; Suero de Leche; Origanum vulgare; Spray Dryer.

Microencapsulação de enterocina e oleo de oregano em leitelho / Microencapsulation of the enterocin and essential oil oregano in buttermilk / Microencapsulación de enterocina y aceite esencial de orégano en suero de leche

A pesquisa busca técnicas alternativas para expansão da vida de prateleira dos alimentos, isto tem impulsionado estudos sobre a utilização de conservantes naturais, tais como as bacteriocinas e óleos essenciais, que são considerados agentes antimicrobianos naturais. No entanto estes antimicrobianos naturais, não são adicionados diretamente em produtos alimentícios, devido a alterações sensoriais e em suas características físico e química. Com avanço tecnológico da microencapsulação, tem sido um potencial em fornecer sistemas que garantem estabilidade para os antimicrobianos naturais desta forma podendo compor a matriz de alimentos. Portanto, o objetivo desse trabalho foi microencapsular a enterocina produzida por Enterococcus durans MF5 e óleo de orégano usando leitelho. Para a microencapsulação, foram realizados três tratamentos: T1 controle leitelho, T2 leitelho/enterocina (LE), e T3 leitelho/enterocina/óleo (LEO). O material foi submetido ao processo de spray dryer e foram realizados ensaios para determinar a atividade antimicrobiana do material encapsulado contra as bactérias Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria innocua e Listeria ivanovi. O rendimento da microencapsulação foi de 13,01% e 11,63% para LE e LEO, respectivamente. Os resultados apresentados nos microencapsulados LE e LEO mostraram inibição contra todas as bactérias teste, foi constatado que a microencapsulação de enterocina e óleo de orégano mantiveram seu poder antimicrobiano. A efetividade da microencapsulação foi realizada por (FTIR), onde picos de intensidade entre as amostras na região 1000 a 930 cm-¹ e 1800 a 1500 cm-¹ foram observadas. Os resultados apontam para mudança no perfil químico das amostras encapsuladas, corroborando com a hipótese que o leitelho apresentou papel encapsulante da bactericiona e óleo de orégano.Portanto a microencapsulação aumenta a eficácia antimicrobiana dos antimicrobianos.

The research seeks alternative techniques for expanding the shelf life of foods, this has driven studies on the use of natural preservatives, such as bacteriocins and essential oils, which are considered natural antimicrobial agents. However, these natural antimicrobials are not directly added to food products due to sensory changes and their physical and chemical characteristics. With technological advancement of microencap- sulation, it has been a potential to provide systems that ensure stability for natural anti- microbials in this way can compose the food matrix. Therefore, this study has an objective microencapsulated the interocin and essencial oil, used buttermilk as a encapsulating ma- terial where, T1 Buttermilk Control, T2 buttermilk/enterocin (LE), e T3 Buttermilk/en- terocin/oil (LEO). The product has been submitted to spray drier process, were conducted trials to determine antimicrobial activity. Was observed with mass yield 13,01% e 11,63% para LE e LEO. These results the microencapsulate indicate then LE e LEO there was inihibiton against bacteria tests. Was observed that the microencapsulated between enter- ocin and essential oil oregano maintained antimicrobial power. The effectiveness of the microencapsulated was performed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, where a sample in the region 1000 to 930 cm-¹ and 1800 to 1500 cm-¹ was observed. Therefore microencapsulation increases antimicrobial efficacy of antimicrobials.

La investigación busca técnicas alternativas para ampliar la vida útil de los alimentos, esto ha impulsado estudios sobre el uso de conservantes naturales, como las bacteriocinas y los aceites esenciales, que se consideran agentes antimicrobianos naturales. Sin embargo, estos antimicrobianos naturales no se añaden directamente a los productos alimentarios debido a los cambios sensoriales y a sus características físicas y químicas. Con el avance tecnológico de la microencapsulación, ha sido un potencial para proporcionar sistemas que garanticen la estabilidad de los antimicrobianos naturales de esta manera puede componer la matriz alimentaria. Por lo tanto, este estudio tiene como objetivo microencapsular la interocina y el aceite esencial, utilizando suero de leche como material encapsulante donde, T1 Suero de leche Control, T2 Suero de leche/enterocina (LE), e T3 Suero de leche/enterocina/aceite (LEO). El producto ha sido sometido al proceso de secado por pulverización, se realizaron ensayos para determinar la actividad antimicrobiana. Se observó con rendimiento de masa 13,01% e 11,63% para LE e LEO. Estos resultados indican que el microencapsulado LE e LEO fue inhibido contra las pruebas bacterianas. Se observó que el microencapsulado entre enterocina y aceite esencial de orégano mantuvo el poder antimicrobiano. La eficacia del microencapsulado fue realizada por análisis de infrarrojo transformado de Fourier (FTIR), donde fue observada una muestra en la región de 1000 a 930 cm-¹ y de 1800 a 1500 cm-¹. Por lo tanto, la microencapsulación aumenta la eficacia antimicrobiana de los antimicrobianos. PALABRAS CLAVE: Bacteriocina; Enterococcus durans; Suero de Leche; Origanum vulgare; Spray Dryer.

Dill seed oil as a possible contraceptive agent: antiangiogenic effects on endothelial cells

Abstract Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) essential oil is wide spread in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical sectors. Dill is a member of the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. It has the following biological activities: antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antihyperlipidemic, antihypercholesterolemic, antispasmodic, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory. Aqueous extract of dill seed has reported effects on sex hormones and infertility potential. Moreover, boiled dill seed has an impact on reducing labor duration in giving birth. Implantation and placentation are necessary for a healthy pregnancy in the early stages. Angiogenesis is responsible for these essential processes. This study aimed to investigate dill seed oil's cytotoxic and antiangiogenic effects on rat adipose tissue endothelial cells (RATECs). Dill seed oil showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity on RATECs. It disrupted endothelial tube formation and depolymerized F-actin stress fibers. According to this study, depolymerization of F-actin stress fiber by dill seed oil could inhibit angiogenesis by suppressing endothelial cell proliferation, tube formation and motility. In other words, dill seed oil can be a new anti-angiogenic agent and a novel contraceptive.

Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antifungal and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oil of Fruits from Juniperus oxycedrus L. Obtained from Morocco

Abstract The present study was aimed at conducting phytochemical analysis and evaluating the in vitro antifungal and antioxidant activities of the essential oil obtained from the fruits of J. oxycedrus L. Hydro-distillation was used to extract the essential oil from the fruits of Juniper oxycedrus. The essential oil was analyzed using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The antioxidant activity of the essential oil against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals was determined in vitro using varying concentrations of the essential oil and vitamin C as a standard antioxidant compound. A disc diffusion test was employed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the essential oil against two test fungal strains, Penicillium citrinum, and Aspergillus niger. The results revealed that 49 constituents were identified in fruit oil, representing 91.56% of the total oil and the yield was 1.58%. Juniper fruit oil was characterized by having high contents of ß-pinene (42.04%), followed by limonene (15.45%), sabinene (9.52%), α-pinene (5.21%), (E)-caryophyllene (3.77%), ρ-cymene (1.56%), caryophyllene oxide (2.02%), and myrcene (1.02%). The radical scavenging activity (% inhibition) of the essential oil was highest (81.87± 2.83%) at a concentration of 200 µg/mL. The essential oil of J. oxycedrus exhibited antifungal activity against A. niger and P. citrinum with minimum inhibitory concentration values (MIC) ranging from 2.89 to 85.01 µl/mL. The findings of the study reveal that the antioxidant and antifungal properties of J. oxycedrus essential oil and their chemical composition are significantly correlated

Biological screening of herbal extracts and essential oil from Plectranthus species: α-amylase and 5-lipoxygenase inhibition and antioxidant and anti-Candida potentials

Abstract The phenolic compound content, the antioxidant and α-amylase inhibition potentials of different extracts of the Plectranthus amboinicus, P. barbatus and P. ornatus were evaluated. We also evaluated the influence of plant growth and harvest time on the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) of P. amboinicus, its antioxidant and anti-Candida activities and the α-amylase and lipoxygenase inhibitions. The turbo-extract of P. barbatus showed the greatest phenolic compound content and antioxidant activity. No α-amylase inhibition activity was observed in the analyzed extracts, but the turbo-extraction and refluxing extracts possessed high antioxidant activities. Protected cultivation and morning harvest conditions gave the best antioxidant activities, which was associated to the highest carvacrol content. P. amboinicus EO antioxidant activity could contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress in diabetes. Causal Candida strains of diabetic foot ulcers showed sensitivity to P. amboinicus EO. C. albicans and C. dubliniensis were the most sensitive of the selected Candida strains. Turbo-extracts or refluxing of the three species extracts and the EO of P. amboinicus should be considered as a potential candidate for the management the complications of type 2 diabetes.

Chemical composition, in vitro larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of the essential oil from Citrus reticulata Blanco fruit peel / Composição química, atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial da casca do fruto de Citrus reticulata Blanco

Numerous studies have investigated the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from different Citrus species fruit peel, leaves and flowers. This paper aims to investigate the chemical composition, larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of essential oil from Citrus reticulata fruit peel (CR-EO). CR-EO was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and its chemical composition was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. Limonene (85.7%), ɣ-terpinene (6.7%) and myrcene (2.1%) were identified as its major components. CR-EO showed high activity against promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis (IC50 = 8.23 µg/mL). CR-EO also exhibited high larvicidal activity against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a lethal concentration (LC50 = 58.35 µg/mL) and 100% mortality at 150 µg/mL. This study suggests, for the first time, the potential use of CR-EO against this important mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the genus Aedes.

Numerosos estudos têm investigado a composição química e as atividades biológicas de óleos essenciais extraídos de cascas dos frutos, folhas e flores de diferentes espécies de Citrus. Este trabalho tem como objetivo investigar a composição química e as atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial das cascas dos frutos de Citrus reticulata (CR-EO). CR-EO foi obtido pela técnica de extração em aparelho Clevenger e sua composição química foi determinada por CG-EM e CG-DIC. Limoneno (85,7%), ɣ-terpineno (6,7%) and mirceno (2,1%) foram identificados como os constituintes majoritários. CR-EO mostrou alta atividade contra as formas promastigota de Leishmania amazonensis (CI50 = 8,23 µg/mL). CR-EO também exibiu alta atividade larvicida contra as larvas do terceiro estágio do Aedes aegypti com concentração letal (CL50 = 58,35 µg/mL) e mortalidade de 100% em 150 µg/mL. Este estudo sugere, pela primeira vez, o uso potencial de CR-EO contra esta importante doença viral transmitida por mosquitos do gênero Aedes.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Thymus vulgaris essential oil contained and synthesis thymus (Vulgaris) silver nanoparticles / Atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana do óleo essencial de Thymus vulgaris contido e síntese de nanopartículas de prata de timo (Vulgaris)

Several species of thymus have therapeutic properties, so they are used in traditional medicine. In this work was carried out to synthesize Thymus vulgalis silver nanoparticles (TSNPS) and evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of TSNPS and T. vulgalis essential oil extract (TEOE). The essential oils analyzed by GC-MS and were characterized. Major compounds of phenol, 2 methyl 5 (1 methylethyle) (CAS), thymol and 1,2 Benzene dicarboxylic acid, 3 nitro (CAS) (48.75%, 32.42% and 8.12%, respectively) were detected. Results demonstrated that the TSNPS gave a highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, it was obtained 97.2 at 1000 ug/ml. TSNPS, Thymus + Hexane (T+H), Thymus + Ethanol (T+E) gave the greatest antimicrobial activity than amoxicillin (AM) and ciprofloxacin (CIP). In conclusion: The essential oil of thymus (Vulgaris) and thymus (Vulgaris) silver nanoparticles can be a good source of natural preservatives as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agents for increasing the shelf life of foodstuffs.

Diversas espécies de timo possuem propriedades terapêuticas, por isso são utilizadas na medicina tradicional. Neste trabalho foi realizado para sintetizar nanopartículas de prata Thymus vulgalis (TSNPS) e avaliar as atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana de TSNPS e extrato de óleo essencial de T. vulgalis (TEOE). Os óleos essenciais analisados por GC-MS e foram caracterizados. Os principais compostos de fenol, 2 metil 5 (1 metiletilo) (CAS), timol e ácido 1,2 Benzenodicarboxílico, 3 nitro (CAS) (48,75%, 32,42% e 8,12%, respectivamente) foram detectados. Os resultados demonstraram que o TSNPS deu uma maior atividade de eliminação do radical DPPH , foi obtido 97,2 a 1000 ug / ml. TSNPS, Timo + Hexano (T + H), Timo + Etanol (T + E) deu a maior atividade antimicrobiana do que amoxicilina (AM) e ciprofloxacina (CIP). Em conclusão: O óleo essencial de nanopartículas de prata do timo (Vulgaris) e do timo (Vulgaris) pode ser uma boa fonte de conservantes naturais como agentes antioxidantes e antimicrobianos para aumentar a vida útil de alimentos.

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.

Chemical composition, in vitro larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of the essential oil from Citrus reticulata Blanco fruit peel / Composição química, atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial da casca do fruto de Citrus reticulata Blanco

Abstract Numerous studies have investigated the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils from different Citrus species fruit peel, leaves and flowers. This paper aims to investigate the chemical composition, larvicidal and antileishmanial activities of essential oil from Citrus reticulata fruit peel (CR-EO). CR-EO was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus and its chemical composition was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. Limonene (85.7%), ɣ-terpinene (6.7%) and myrcene (2.1%) were identified as its major components. CR-EO showed high activity against promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis (IC50 = 8.23 µg/mL). CR-EO also exhibited high larvicidal activity against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a lethal concentration (LC50 = 58.35 µg/mL) and 100% mortality at 150 µg/mL. This study suggests, for the first time, the potential use of CR-EO against this important mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the genus Aedes.

Resumo Numerosos estudos têm investigado a composição química e as atividades biológicas de óleos essenciais extraídos de cascas dos frutos, folhas e flores de diferentes espécies de Citrus. Este trabalho tem como objetivo investigar a composição química e as atividades larvicida e leishmanicida in vitro do óleo essencial das cascas dos frutos de Citrus reticulata (CR-EO). CR-EO foi obtido pela técnica de extração em aparelho Clevenger e sua composição química foi determinada por CG-EM e CG-DIC. Limoneno (85,7%), ɣ-terpineno (6,7%) and mirceno (2,1%) foram identificados como os constituintes majoritários. CR-EO mostrou alta atividade contra as formas promastigota de Leishmania amazonensis (CI50 = 8,23 µg/mL). CR-EO também exibiu alta atividade larvicida contra as larvas do terceiro estágio do Aedes aegypti com concentração letal (CL50 = 58,35 µg/mL) e mortalidade de 100% em 150 µg/mL. Este estudo sugere, pela primeira vez, o uso potencial de CR-EO contra esta importante doença viral transmitida por mosquitos do gênero Aedes.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Thymus vulgaris essential oil contained and synthesis thymus (Vulgaris) silver nanoparticles / Atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana do óleo essencial de Thymus vulgaris contido e síntese de nanopartículas de prata de timo (Vulgaris)

Abstract Several species of thymus have therapeutic properties, so they are used in traditional medicine. In this work was carried out to synthesize Thymus vulgalis silver nanoparticles (TSNPS) and evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of TSNPS and T. vulgalis essential oil extract (TEOE). The essential oils analyzed by GC-MS and were characterized. Major compounds of phenol, 2 methyl 5 (1 methylethyle) (CAS), thymol and 1,2 Benzene dicarboxylic acid, 3 nitro (CAS) (48.75%, 32.42% and 8.12%, respectively) were detected. Results demonstrated that the TSNPS gave a highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, it was obtained 97.2 at 1000 ug/ml. TSNPS, Thymus + Hexane (T+H), Thymus + Ethanol (T+E) gave the greatest antimicrobial activity than amoxicillin (AM) and ciprofloxacin (CIP). In conclusion: The essential oil of thymus (Vulgaris) and thymus (Vulgaris) silver nanoparticles can be a good source of natural preservatives as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agents for increasing the shelf life of foodstuffs.

Resumo Diversas espécies de timo possuem propriedades terapêuticas, por isso são utilizadas na medicina tradicional. Neste trabalho foi realizado para sintetizar nanopartículas de prata Thymus vulgalis (TSNPS) e avaliar as atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana de TSNPS e extrato de óleo essencial de T. vulgalis (TEOE). Os óleos essenciais analisados por GC-MS e foram caracterizados. Os principais compostos de fenol, 2 metil 5 (1 metiletilo) (CAS), timol e ácido 1,2 Benzenodicarboxílico, 3 nitro (CAS) (48,75%, 32,42% e 8,12%, respectivamente) foram detectados. Os resultados demonstraram que o TSNPS deu uma maior atividade de eliminação do radical DPPH , foi obtido 97,2 a 1000 ug / ml. TSNPS, Timo + Hexano (T + H), Timo + Etanol (T + E) deu a maior atividade antimicrobiana do que amoxicilina (AM) e ciprofloxacina (CIP). Em conclusão: O óleo essencial de nanopartículas de prata do timo (Vulgaris) e do timo (Vulgaris) pode ser uma boa fonte de conservantes naturais como agentes antioxidantes e antimicrobianos para aumentar a vida útil de alimentos.

Antimicrobial and toxicological evaluation of Origanum vulgare: an in vivo study / Avaliação antimicrobiana e toxicológica de Origanum vulgare: um estudo in vivo

Abstract Origanum vulgare has been of great interest in academia and pharma industry due to its antioxidant, antifungal and antitumor properties. The present study aimed to find the anti-MRSA potential and in vivo toxicity assessments of O. vulgare. O. vulgare extract was used to monitor anti-MRSA activity in mice. Following MRSA established infection in mice (Mus musculus), treatment with O. vulgare was continued for 7 days. Autopsies were performed and re-isolation, gross lesion scoring and bacterial load in various organs were measured. Additionally, blood sample was analysed for hematological assays. Toxicity assessment of O. vulgare potential as medicine was done at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg by evaluating liver and kidney functions. Bacterial load and gross lesion in lungs and heart were significantly low compared to positive control following O. vulgare treatment. Likewise, O. vulgare treated groups had hematological, neutrophil and TLC values similar to control groups. Increased AST, ALP and total bilirubin alongwith marked hepatocellular degeneration and distortion around the central vein, inflammatory cell infiltration, and cytoplasmic vacuolization of hepatic cells was observed at higher dose. It is concluded that crude extract of O. vulgare may contain beneficial secondary metabolites and in future may be explored for curing infectious diseases.

Resumo Origanum vulgare tem despertado grande interesse na academia e na indústria farmacêutica devido às suas propriedades antioxidantes, antifúngicas e antitumorais. O presente estudo teve como objetivo encontrar o potencial anti-MRSA e avaliações de toxicidade in vivo de O. vulgare. O extrato de O. vulgare foi usado para monitorar a atividade anti-MRSA em camundongos. Após infecção estabelecida por MRSA em camundongos (Mus musculus), o tratamento com O. vulgare foi continuado por 7 dias. As autópsias foram realizadas e o reisolamento, pontuação das lesões grosseiras e carga bacteriana em vários órgãos foram medidos. Além disso, a amostra de sangue foi analisada para ensaios hematológicos. A avaliação da toxicidade do potencial de O. vulgare como medicamento foi feita com 200 mg / kg e 400 mg / kg, avaliando as funções hepática e renal. A carga bacteriana e as lesões graves nos pulmões e no coração foram significativamente baixas em comparação com o controle positivo após o tratamento com O. vulgare. Da mesma forma, os grupos tratados com O. vulgare apresentaram valores hematológicos, de neutrófilos e de TLC semelhantes aos grupos de controle. Aumento de AST, ALP e bilirrubina total juntamente com degeneração hepatocelular marcada e distorção ao redor da veia central, infiltração de células inflamatórias e vacuolização citoplasmática de células hepáticas foram observados em doses mais altas. Conclui-se que o extrato bruto de O. vulgare pode conter metabólitos secundários benéficos e, no futuro, pode ser explorado para a cura de doenças infecciosas.

Atividade de extratos de plantas e óleos essenciais sobre o vírus Sars-Cov-2: análise bibliométrica / Activity of plant extracts and essential oils on the Sars-Cov-2 virus: bibliometric analysis

Registros arqueológicos relatam que o uso das plantas medicinais acontece desde a pré-história, com apontamentos de que o homem ao se alimentar de raízes e ervas, instintivamente, utilizava as plantas como medicamentos e, diante da pandemia de COVID-19, deve-se levar em consideração que a busca pelo tratamento de uma doença, sem a menor perspectiva de controle, passe por todos os meandros da medicina incluindo a medicina alternativa, por meio das plantas medicinais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os artigos científicos publicados sobre extratos de plantas e óleos essenciais que possuem atuação sobre o vírus SARS-CoV-2 no período de 2020 a 2022. Tratou-se de estudo exploratório, descritivo e retrospectivo, realizado, por meio de revisão bibliográfica. O total de artigos recuperados foi de 424 sobre extratos de plantas e 15 sobre óleos essenciais que, após a exclusão de artigos, selecionou-se 34 (8%) de extratos de plantas e dois (13%) de óleos essenciais, com os quais se desenvolveram as análises. Quanto às características formais da produção científica, concluiu-se que no ano de 2020 não foram encontrados artigos sobre os temas. Os autores chineses, indianos e japoneses tiveram a mesma totalidade de publicações, mas os indianos e japoneses apresentaram artigos mais atualizados. As instituições públicas foram as que mais publicaram sobre os temas e a China foi o país com maior número de publicações. Nas análises de rede de correlação por coautoria e por coocorrência dos termos, concluiu-se que as coautorias dos dois temas não apresentaram diferenças nas correlações entre os autores e os termos MeSH que tiveram maior força de relacionamento foram SARS-CoV-2, Plant Extracts, COVID-19, Humans, Antiviral Agents e Volatile Oils. Sobre os conteúdos abordados concluiu-se que as plantas medicinais, seus extratos e os óleos essenciais possuem potencial eficácia sobre a inibição do vírus SARS-CoV-2, com exceção do óleo essencial de eucalipto que possui efeito contrário no que diz respeito à infectividade do vírus.

Archaeological records show that the use of medicinal plants has been going on since prehistoric times, with indications that when man ate roots and herbs, he instinctively used plants as medicines and, in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, it must be taken into account that the search for the treatment of a disease, without the slightest prospect of control, goes through all the intricacies of medicine including alternative medicine, through medicinal plants. The aim of this study is to describe the scientific articles published on plant extracts and essential oils that act on the SARS-CoV-2 virus between 2020 and 2022. This is an exploratory, descriptive and retrospective study, carried out by means of a bibliographic review. The total number of articles retrieved was 424 on plant extracts and 15 on essential oils. After excluding the articles, 34 (8%) on plant extracts and two (13%) on essential oils were selected for analysis. As for the formal characteristics of scientific production, it was concluded that no articles on the topics were found in 2020. Chinese, Indian and Japanese authors had the same total number of publications, but the Indians and Japanese had more up-to-date articles. Public institutions published the most on the topics and China was the country with the highest number of publications. The analyses of the correlation network by co-authorship and by co-occurrence of terms showed that the co-authorships of the two topics did not differ in the correlations between the authors and the MeSH terms with the strongest relationships were SARS-CoV-2, Plant Extracts, COVID-19, Humans, Antiviral Agents and Volatile Oils. It was concluded that medicinal plants, their extracts and essential oils are potentially effective in inhibiting the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with the exception of eucalyptus essential oil, which has the opposite effect in terms of virus infectivity.