A Scoping Review on Carotenoid Profiling in Passiflora spp.: A Vast Avenue for Expanding the Knowledge on the Species.

The Passiflora genus is recognised for its ethnopharmacological, sensorial, and nutritional significance. Yet, the screening of its dietary and bioactive molecules has mainly targeted hydrophilic metabolites. Following the PRISMA-P protocol, this review assessed the current knowledge on carotenoid composition and analysis within Passiflora, examining 968 records from seven databases and including 17 studies focusing on carotenoid separation and identification in plant parts. Those publications originated in America and Asia. P. edulis was the most frequently examined species of a total of ten, while pulp was the most studied plant part (16 studies). Carotenoid analysis involved primarily high-performance liquid chromatography separation on C18 columns and detection using diode array detectors (64.71%). Most studies identified the provitamin A ß-carotene and xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin, with their geometric configuration often neglected. Only one study described carotenoid esters. Besides the methodology's insufficient description, the lack of use of more accurate techniques and practices led to a high risk of bias in the carotenoid assignment in 17.65% of the articles. This review highlights the opportunity to broaden carotenoid studies to other species and parts within the diverse Passiflora genus, especially to wild, locally available fruits, which may have a strategic role in enhancing food diversity and security amidst climatic changes. Additionally, it urges the use of more accurate and efficient analytical methods based on green chemistry to better identify Passiflora carotenoids.

An eco-friendly extraction method to obtain pectin from passion fruit rinds (Passiflora edulis sp.) using subcritical water and pressurized natural deep eutectic solvents.

This work evaluated the efficiency of Subcritical Water Extraction (SWE) and Pressurized Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (P-NaDESs) under different temperatures (100, 120, 140 and 160 °C) in obtaining pectin from Passion Fruit Rinds (PFR) and its residual biomass (PFR - UAPLE), and compare the results with those of Conventional Extraction (CE). The highest pectin yields, 19.1 and 27.6 %, were achieved using P-NaDES (Citric Acid:Glucose:Water) at 120 °C for PFR and its PFR-UAPLE, respectively. Regarding the Degree of Esterification (DE), pectin obtained with SWE and CE had DE below 50 %, while with P-NaDES (Citric Acid: Glucose:Water), DE was above 50 %. Higher Molecular Weights (MW) (98 and 81 kDa) were obtained with SWE and P-NaDES from PFR compared to PFR-UAPLE and CE. Galacturonic acid was the most abundant (74 to 78 %) monosaccharide obtained by SWE. In terms of morphology, water extraction provided pectin with more uniform textures, whereas extraction with acidified mixtures led to more heterogeneous surfaces. Overall, comparing SWE and P-NaDES, the obtained pectins differed in terms of monomeric composition, MW and DE. These results indicate that pectins obtained by both methods can have different applications depending on their structural characteristics.

Research on Passiflora foetida L. as a Pharmaceutical Treatment for Neurasthenia in Humans.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> This plant is known in many parts of the world and is used as medicine in some countries. In Vietnam, people know how to use <i>Passiflora foetida </i>L.,<i> </i>as an herb. There are many research works in the world, most of them focus on medicinal properties. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of samples of <i>Passiflora foetida </i>L., yellow fruit based on agronomic traits and the gene region of "<i>rbcL</i>". <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Seed samples were arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications. The trial was a sample of <i>Passiflora foetida </i>L., species. The distance between sample plant is 3×2 m, so the total number of trees is 1,330 trees ha¹. The genetic relationship between them was determined through the construction of a phylogenetic tree in the "<i>rbcL</i>" gene region sequence. Data analysis and processing methods done by using X software. <b>Results:</b> The PCR results that amplify the "<i>rbcL</i>" gene region around 670 bp, the PCR products were then sequenced. The sequence results were compared with the sequences on the NCBI gene bank, showing that the sequences of the nine varieties/species all coincided with the <i>Passiflora foetida </i>Sims species sequences with a high similarity coefficient from 98.77 to 99.9%. Genetically shows that all nine species samples belong to <i>Passiflora foetida</i> which can be classified into three genetic samples of An Giang (LA1), Ca Mau (LA2) and Can Tho (LA3) which are genetically close to each other, have the same index. <b>Conclusion:</b> The heritability in the broad sense is high in the two traits of stem height and leaf length, so it can be considered that these two traits are controlled by genes. The cultivation of algae seeds to improve the productivity of these medicinal plant varieties is important in providing raw materials for the oriental medicine industry.

Sub-acute toxicity evaluation of aqueous leaf extract from Passiflora edulis Sims f. edulis (Gulupa) in Wistar rats.

The genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae) comprises about 500 species. The Passiflora edulis stands out because of its economic and medicinal importance. It is widely planted in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, especially in South America, the Caribbean, South Africa, and Asia. The aqueous extract of Passiflora edulis Sims f. edulis (Gulupa) leaves is used in traditional medicine for its soothing and tranquilizing effects on the central nervous system. Therefore, evaluating its safety for human use is a fundamental requirement to continue the development of new therapies within the framework of regulatory, preclinical, and clinical guidelines. Here, the sub-acute toxicity study was conducted following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guideline 407 for 28 days in Wistar albino rats. The study showed that 1000 mg/kg/day of the aqueous extract in 10 adult Wistar rats (five males and five females) was well tolerated. The hematological results are at normal levels. However, monocytopenia and eosinopenia were observed with a significant difference (P < 0,05) for both male and female rats treated with the aqueous extract of Passiflora edulis. The results show that liver and kidney function profiles were conserved. However, an increase in ALT is observed with significant differences between male and female rats treated with the extract compared to the controls. Study findings were limited to non-adverse histopathological results of a slightly increased incidence of focal periportal lymphocytic infiltrate in the liver and focal corticomedullary nephrocalcinosis in the kidney compared to control. Therefore, the aqueous extract of Passiflora edulis has a good safety profile in oral administration, was well tolerated, and did not cause any lethality or adverse effects in the sub-acute toxicity study in male and female rats. The NOAEL (no observed adverse effect level) for the 28-day subacute toxicity study was considered to be 1000 mg/kg.

Polyphenol Profiling by LC QTOF/ESI-MS and Biological Activity of Purple Passion Fruit Epicarp Extract.

A polyphenolic preparation in the form of the passion fruit epicarp extract was analyzed to identify and quantify the polyphenolic compounds using LC QTOF/ESI-MS and UPLC-PDA-FL. The analyzed parameters included antidiabetic activity (α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase), inhibitory activity toward cholinesterase (AChE, BuChE), anti-inflammatory activity (COX-1, COX-2, 15-LOX) and antioxidant activity based on ORAC and ABTS. The polyphenolic preparation of the passion fruit epicarp extract contained 51 polyphenolic compounds representing five groups-flavones (25 compounds; 52% of total polyphenolic), flavonols (8; 16%), flavan-3-ols (6; 7%), phenolic acids (4; 3%), and anthocyanins (7; 21%), with derivatives of luteolin (13 derivatives) and apigenin (8 derivatives) as dominant compounds. The preparation was characterized by an antioxidant activity of 160.7 (ORAC) and 1004.4 mmol Trolox/100 mL (ABTS+o). The inhibitory activity toward α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase reached IC50 of 7.99, 12.80, and 0.42, respectively. The inhibition of cholinesterases (IC50) was 18.29 for AChE and 14.22 for BuChE. Anti-inflammatory activity as IC50 was 6.0 for COX-1, 0.9 for COX-2, and 4.9 for 15-LOX. Food enriched with passion fruit epicarp extract has a potentially therapeutic effect.

Hydroalcoholic extract of Passiflora incarnata improves the autistic-like behavior and neuronal damage in a valproic acid-induced rat model of autism.

Experimental autism in rodents can be caused by prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure. Some diseases, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia, opiate withdrawal, and generalized anxiety disorder can be treated by consuming Passiflora incarnata, due to the possession of bioactive compounds like alkaloids, phenols, and flavonoids. The present study aims to investigate the role of the hydroalcoholic extract of Passiflora incarnata in behavioral and oxidative stress aberrations induced by VPA. On the gestational day (GD), 12.5, pregnant Wistar rats received VPA (600 mg/kg subcutaneously). Male pups were treated with the extract (30,100, and 300 mg/kg) from postnatal day 35 to the end of the experiment, and underwent behavioral testing to evaluate locomotion, repetitive, and stereotyped movements, anxiety, and social and cognitive behaviors. After behavioral testing, the blood sample was taken from the left ventricle to determine serum catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Then the animals were euthanized and their brains were taken out for histological assays of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and CA1 hippocampus with hematoxylin/eosin. The total phenol and flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of the extract were also measured. A significant improvement was observed in behavioral disturbances, particularly with 300 mg/kg of Passiflora. Moreover, the formation of oxidative stress markers significantly decreased at this dose. The extract also reduced the percentage of damaged cells in the CA1 and PFC. The results indicated that Passiflora extract could ameliorate VPA-induced behavioral aberrations possibly due to the antioxidant actions of its bioactive compounds.

Potential Hypoglycemic and Antilipidemic Activity of Polyphenols from Passiflora ligularis (Granadilla).

The consumption of fruits or by-products from plants of the Passifloraceae family has been associated with multiple health and nutritional benefits, due to their phenolic compound content. Likewise, the effects of polyphenols from Camellia sinensis (green tea) have been explored and are considered a reference for different biological actions of these bioactive substances. This study compared the hypoglycemic and antilipemic activity of polyphenol-rich extracts of Passiflora ligularis Juss (passion fruit) and Camellia sinensis (green tea) given to a group of Wistar rats induced to be overweight. The individuals were subjected to three doses of supplementation of both sources of polyphenols in the drinking water. An additional group without polyphenol supplementation served as a control group. Water consumption, weight gain, glycemia, cholesterol, serum triglycerides and percentage of fecal ethereal extracts were analyzed. Although Passiflora ligularis Juss had five times less polyphenol content than Camellia sinensis, rats fed doses of 2.5 and 3.0 g/L Passiflora ligularis Juss showed reduced glycemia by 16%, suggesting an antiglycemic activity similar to that of Camellia sinensis. On the other hand, higher doses of polyphenols from Passiflora ligularis Juss and Camellia sinensis significantly reduced triglyceride levels (p = 0.05) by more than 17% compared to the unsupplemented control group. The polyphenol-rich extracts produced effective inhibitory activity of lipemic metabolites with a reduction in the percentage of fecal lipids (p < 0.05), with no side effects on liver tissue. The 3.0 g/L dose produced the best result on signs of metabolic syndrome associated with excess weight. Polyphenols extracted from fresh Colombian passion fruit showed the potential to decrease metabolic syndrome risk factors in a murine model.

Anti-Alzheimer's Activity of Polyphenolic Stilbene-Rich Acetone Fraction of the Oil-Removed Seeds of Passiflora edulis: in Vivo and in Silico Studies.

The stilbene-rich acetone fraction in high yield (6.6 %, PEAS) of Passiflora edulis Sims was prepared and evaluated for neuroprotective activity in murine Alzheimer's disease model induced by aluminum chloride and D-galactose. The phytochemical and HPLC-DAD-MS analysis of the polyphenolic stilbene-rich acetone fraction showed that it contained different stilbenes including trans-piceatannol, scirpusins A-B and cassigarol E. The total phenolic content (TPC) of PEAS was 413.87±1.71 mg GAE eqv/g. The neuroprotective activity of PEAS is typically presented in the Morris water maze-reference Spatial Memory test, where the Alzheimer's mice treated at 100 mg/kg (Alz-ED1) and 200 mg/kg (Alz-ED2) spent less than 47 % and 66 % of the time, respectively, than the Alzheimer's model mice (Alz). Two simple stilbenes, trans-piceatannol and trans-resveratrol, showed selectively inhibitory activity in silico against acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Two stilbene dimers, cassigarol E and scirpusin A, exhibited low nanomolar inhibitory potential against AChE and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), significantly lower than those of the positive control, donepezil and tacrine. These findings suggest that the stilbenes from P. edulis seeds, particularly the stilbene dimers, warrant further investigation as potential neuroprotective candidates in the prevention of cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Add-On Treatment with Passiflora incarnata L., herba, during Benzodiazepine Tapering in Patients with Depression and Anxiety: A Real-World Study.

Chronic and inappropriate benzodiazepine intake represents an important health and social concern worldwide. The aim of our study was to investigate the effectiveness of P. incarnata L., herba, in reducing benzodiazepine misuse in a real-world population of depressed and anxious patients in a long-term treatment with benzodiazepines. We conducted a retrospective naturalistic study on 186 patients undergoing benzodiazepine downtitration, 93 with the addition of a dry extract of P. incarnata L., herba (Group A), and 93 without any add-on treatment (Group B). Regarding the benzodiazepine dosage variation in the two groups, a repeated measure ANOVA showed a significant effect of time (p < 0.001), group (p = 0.018), and time x group interaction (p = 0.011). We found a significantly higher rate, i.e., of 50%, reduction in Group A vs. Group B at 1 month (p < 0.001) and at 3 months (p < 0.001) and complete benzodiazepine discontinuation at 1 month (p = 0.002) and at 3 months (p = 0.016). Our findings suggest the role of P. incarnata as an effective add-on treatment during benzodiazepine tapering. These findings highlight the need for further studies to better investigate the promising properties of P. incarnata in the management of such a relevant clinical and social issue.

Breast cancer cell growth arrest and chemopreventive effects of Passiflora edulis Sims (Passifloraceae) ethanolic leaves extract on a rat model of mammary carcinoma.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Despite various prevention and treatment measures, the incidence and mortality due to breast cancer has been increasing globally. Passiflora edulis Sims is a plant used for the treatment of various diseases in traditional medicine, including cancers. AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess the anti-breast cancer activity of the ethanolic extract of P. edulis leaves in vitro and in vivo. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In vitro, the cell growth and proliferation were determined based on the MTT and BrdU assays. The flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell death mechanism while, cell migration, cell adhesion and chemotaxis were assayed for anti-metastatic potential. In vivo, 56 female Wistar rats aged 45-50 days (∼75 g) were exposed to 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-DMBA except the normal group. Negative control group (DMBA) received solvent dilution throughout the study; standards groups (tamoxifen - 3.3 mg/kg BW and letrozole - 1 mg/kg BW) as well as P. edulis leaves ethanolic extract groups (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) treated for 20 weeks. Tumor incidence, tumor burden and volume, CA 15-3 serum' level, antioxidant, inflammatory status and histopathology were assessed. RESULTS: P. edulis extract showed a significant and concentration-dependent inhibition of MCF-7 and MDA-MB 231 cells growth at 100 µg/mL. It inhibited cell proliferation and clones' formation and induced apoptosis in MDA-MB 231 cells. The migration of cell into the zone freed of cells and the number of invading cells after the 48 and 72 h were significantly diminished while, it increased their adherence to collagen and fibronectin extracellular matrix as does Doxorubicin. In vivo, all rats in the DMBA group exhibited a significant (p < 0.001) increase in tumor volume, tumor burden and grade (adenocarcinoma of SBR III) and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-6 and IL-12). P. edulis extract at all tested doses significantly inhibited the DMBA-induced increase in tumor incidence, tumor burden and grade (SBR I) as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, it increased enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants (SOD, catalase, and GSH) and decreased MDA levels although a greater effect was observed with Tamoxifen and Letrozole. P. edulis has medium content on polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins. CONCLUSION: P. edulis has chemo-preventive effects against DMBA-induced breast cancer in rats probably through its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and apoptosis-inducing potentials.

CaCl2 treatment effectively delays postharvest senescence of passion fruit.

This study aimed to systematically investigate the changes in peel color, physicochemical characteristics, textural properties, and peel ultrastructure between CaCl2-treated and water-soaked passion fruit under short-term storage at room temperature (20 °C) for eight days. The fruit peel was further analyzed and compared for the differences in calmodulin (CaM) gene expression between the two groups. The data were analyzed using principal component analysis. The results confirmed that CaCl2 treatment effectively maintained the appearance and color of passion fruit, inhibited peel browning, and improved fruit quality. The treatment had an effect on maintaining the physiological properties of passion fruit parenchyma, effectively delayed the passion fruit senescence, and kept the structural integrity of the fruit peel. The relative expression of PeCaM gene in the CaCl2-treated fruit peels was higher than that of the control peels. The Ca2+ stimulated the relative expression of the PeCaM gene, which delayed the senescence of passion fruit.

1H NMR-based metabolic profile and chemometric analysis for the discrimination of Passiflora species genotypic variations.

The species of the genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae family) have been used as food, cosmetic and traditional herbal. As a result, the Passiflora species are widely cultivated and has an economic, medicinal and ornamental importance. The popular designation as "passion fruit" and chemical profile of several Passiflora species remains unknown. The lack of chemical information contributes to the erroneous classification and adulteration. In recent years, special attention has been paid to the bioactivity and phytochemical profiles of several Passiflora species extracts. In this research, 1H NMR-based metabolic profiling coupled with chemometric tools was used to characterize and distinguish extracts obtained from different wild Passiflora species (P. alata, P. cincinnata, and P. setacea) and genetic varieties (P. alata var. BRS Pérola do Cerrado, P. cincinnata var. BRS Sertão Forte, and P. setacea var. BRS Pérola do Cerrado). Fourteen metabolites were identified by 1D and 2D NMR experiments, highlighting the presence of fatty acids, carbohydrates, saponins, alkaloids, and mainly C-glycosidic flavones. Principal components analysis (PCA) allowed discrimination of Passiflora extracts, which the quadranguloside, oleanolic acid-3-sophoroside, α-glucose, ß-glucose, and vitexin-2-O"-rhamnoside were relevant in the differentiation of P. alata and P. alata var. BRS Pérola do Cerrado, while the flavones isovitexin and isovitexin-2-O"-xyloside were dominant in the grouping of P. setacea and P. setacea var. BRS Pérola do Cerrado, and finally P. cincinnata and P. cincinnata var. BRS Sertão Forte grouped by the influence of the fatty acids, sucrose, flavones (isoorientin and vitexin-2-O"-xyloside), and trigonelline. The varieties of P. setacea, and P. cincinnata are chemically equivalent to the original Passiflora species. However, the PCA analysis showed that the genetic variety of P. alata occupied a different position in the scores plot provoked mainly by the presence of oleanolic acid-3-sophoroside. The 1H NMR metabolic profile can be efficient for quality control evaluation, and can contribute to the investigation of new alternatives for official Passiflora herbal medicines.

Enhancement of Human Epidermal Cell Defense against UVB Damage by Fermentation of Passiflora edulis Sims Peel with Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The processing of Passiflora edulis Sims results in large amounts of wasted peel resources and environmental pollution. In order to improve the utilisation of natural plant resources and economic benefits, this study uses Saccharomyces cerevisiae to ferment Passiflora edulis Sims peel to obtain Passiflora edulis Sims peel fermentation broth (PF). The content of active substances in unfermented Passiflora edulis Sims peel water extract (PW) and PF is then determined, as well as their in vitro antioxidant capacity. The protective effects of PF and PW on UVB-induced skin inflammation and skin barrier damage in human immortalised epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells (including cell viability, ROS, HO-1, NQO1, IL-1ß, IL-8, TNF-α, KLK-7, FLG, AQP3 and Caspase 14 levels) are investigated. Studies have shown that PF enhances the content of active substances more effectively compared to PW, showing a superior ability to scavenge free radical scavenging and antioxidants. PW and PF can effectively scavenge excess intracellular ROS, reduce the cellular secretion of pro-inflammatory factors, regulate the content of skin barrier-related proteins and possibly respond to UVB-induced cell damage by inhibiting the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Studies have shown that both PW and PF are safe and non-irritating, with PF exploiting the efficacy of Passiflora edulis Sims peel more significantly, providing a superior process for the utilisation of Passiflora edulis Sims waste. At the same time, PF can be developed and used as a functional protective agent against ultraviolet damage to the skin, thereby increasing the value of the use of Passiflora edulis Sims waste.

Physicochemical and functional properties of new sports drink with ricotta cheese whey and a brazilian passion fruit variety.

The present study investigated the bioaccessibility of minerals, bioactive compounds, and sensory acceptance of isotonic beverages formulated with Ricotta cheese whey (RCW) and passion fruit cv. BRS Sertão Forte. Three formulations were developed: I1 with 50% RCW and 5% passion fruit pulp, I2 with 50% RCW and 8.5% pulp, and I3 with 30% RCW and 12% pulp. I3 showed higher ascorbic acid content and antioxidant activity, exhibited the highest scores in the consumer test, and maintained its physicochemical stability and microbiological safety during the storage at 7 °C for 56 days. (-)-Epicatechin gallate, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate, and cis-resveratrol were the main phenolic compounds quantified in the isotonic beverages. I1 and I3 exhibited high bioaccessibility of the minerals K, Na, and Mg (37-70%) compared to I2, which showed bioaccessibility between 31 and 40%. The beverages developed are innovative alternatives for the market of supplements for athletes, combining the use of a dairy industry by-product and a new variety of passion fruit to date little-explored economically. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-022-05636-5.

Hypolipidemic potential and safety profile of the ethanolic extract and flour of the peel of Passiflora Cincinnata Mast. (Passifloraceae) in mice.

Passiflora cincinnata Mast. is described as a native Caatinga species, used by nutritional and medicinal purposes, although there are still few studies and pharmacological data related to this species. This paper aims to evaluate the safety profile and hypolipidemic potential of the fruit peel of this species in mice. It was analyzed the chemical composition of ethanolic extract (EtOH-Pc) by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, and the organic and inorganic composition of flour (MF-Pc). Also were evaluated the acute toxicity, the lipid-lowering potential of these samples, through of a pretreatment (oral: 100 and 200 mg/kg), and a single treatment with the same doses, after hyperlipidemic induction with triton WR-1339, using as animal model Swiss Mus musculus mice, besides histopathological analysis. The presence of flavonoids in the extract was confirmed, mainly C-glycosides, and antioxidant minerals and pectin, in flour. No clinical signs of toxicity or death were reported in the study. In the hyperlipidemia study model used, the analyzed substances, at all doses, notably decreased the lipid levels of TC, TG, LDL-c and VLDL-c and increase the HDL-c levels in the induced hyperlipidemic mice (p < 0.05). The results of the histopathological analysis showed that in the group only induced was identified the discrete presence of hepatic steatosis, in 2 animals at the analysis of 24 h, not being visualized in the groups treated with the substances evaluated. The results obtained in the present study suggest a hypolipidemic potential of the extract and flour, obtained from the fruit peel of Passiflora cincinnata Mast.

Produtos fitoterápicos manipulados em um laboratório de manipulação no Estado do Paraná / Phytotherapeutic products handled in a handling laboratory in the State of Paraná / Productos fitoterapéuticos manipulados en un laboratorio de manipulación en el Estado de Paraná

As plantas medicinais foram os primeiros recursos terapêuticos obtidos pelos povos e há registros do seu uso em todos os momentos da História, por grande parte das civilizações. No Brasil, o uso das plantas medicinais é resultado dos conhecimentos de três populações: indígena, europeia e africana. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo caracterizar a manipulação mensal de um laboratório de fitoterápicos na cidade de Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. Os dados que foram coletados para a presente pesquisa são: número de cápsulas manipuladas mensalmente para cada um dos fitoterápicos, os quais serão obtidos a partir dos relatórios de manipulação de fitoterápicos mensais no ano de 2021 e individuais de cada unidade de saúde, fornecidos pela Secretaria de Saúde. Não havendo acesso a informações de pacientes e tampouco contato com eles. As informações dos relatórios foram tabuladas em planilha a fim de se estabelecer os três principais fitoterápicos manipulados no período preestabelecido. Trata-se de um estudo de campo, exploratório, documental e retrospectivo. Observamos que a média de manipulação foi de 34.029 cápsulas por mês, os fitoterápicos mais manipulados no ano de 2021, foram: Passiflora incarnata (maracujá), Aesculus hippocastanum (castanha da índia) e Curcuma longa. Também foi possível notar que houve um aumento gradual de dispensações após a capacitação dos profissionais, ocorrida entre junho e setembro. Além disso, verificamos que há uma grande diferença na quantidade dispensada por cada farmácia municipal, possivelmente devido ao nível de conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde e se preferem ou não prescrever aos pacientes.

Medicinal plants were the first therapeutic resources obtained by people and there are records of their use at all times of history, by a large part of civilizations. In Brazil, the use of medicinal plants is a result of the knowledge of three populations: indigenous, European and African. The present work aims to characterize the monthly handling of a plant medicine laboratory in the city of Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. The data that were collected for this research are: number of capsules handled monthly for each one of the phytotherapics, which will be obtained from the reports of handling of monthly phytotherapics in the year 2021 and individual of each health unit, provided by the Secretariat of Health. There is no access to patient information and no contact with them. The information in the reports was tabulated into a spreadsheet in order to establish the three main phytotherapics handled in the pre-established period. This is an exploratory, documentary and retrospective field study. We observed that the average handling was 34,029 capsules per month, the most manipulated phytotherapics in the year 2021, were: Passiflora incarnata (passion fruit), Aesculus hippocastanum (chestnut from India) and Curcuma longa. It was also possible to note that there was a gradual increase in dispensations after the training of professionals, which took place between June and September. In addition, we note that there is a big difference in the amount dispensed by each municipal pharmacy, possibly due to the level of knowledge of health professionals and whether or not they prefer to prescribe to patients.

Las plantas médicas fueron los primeros recursos terapéuticos obtenidos por los pueblos y hay registros de su uso en todo momento de la historia, por una gran parte de las civilizaciones. En Brasil, el uso de plantas medicinales es el resultado del conocimiento de tres poblaciones: indígenas, europeos y africanos. El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo caracterizar la manipulación mensual de un laboratorio fitoterapéutico en la ciudad de Francisco Beltrão, Paraná. Los datos recogidos para esta investigación son: el número de cápsulas manejadas mensualmente para cada una de las fitoterapias, que se obtendrán de los informes mensuales de manipulación fitoterapéutica en el año 2021 y el individuo de cada unidad de salud, proporcionados por el Departamento de Salud. No hay acceso a la información del paciente ni contacto con ella. La información contenida en los informes se tabuló en una hoja de cálculo para establecer las tres principales fitoterapias manipuladas en el periodo predefinido. Se trata de un estudio de campo, exploratorio, documental y retrospectivo. Observamos que la manipulación media fue de 34.029 cápsulas al mes, las fitoterapias más manipuladas en 2021 fueron: Passiflora incarnata (fruto de la pasión), Aesculus hippocastanum (castaño indio) y Curcuma longa. También es posible señalar que se ha producido un aumento gradual de las dispensaciones después de la capacitación de profesionales, que se llevó a cabo entre junio y septiembre. Además, vemos que existe una enorme diferencia en la cantidad que proporciona cada farmacia municipal, posiblemente debido al nivel de conocimiento de los profesionales de la salud y si prefieren recetarla a los pacientes o no. PALABRAS CLAVE: Fitoterapias; Farmacias Municipales; Curcuma Longa; Passiflora Incarnata; Aesculus Hippocastanum.

Lesión hepática inducida por consumo de Valeriana officinalis y Passiflora incarnata, reporte de caso / Hepatic injury induced by the consumption of Valeriana officinalis and Passiflora incarnata, a case report

Los medicamentos homeopáticos y fitoterapéuticos que contienen productos herbarios son cada vez más utilizados, sin embargo, se desconoce el potencial de efectos adversos por parte de los usuarios y personal sanitario. Se reporta el caso de una mujer de 34 años quien consulta por dolor abdominal y náuseas, con alteraciones al ingreso de función hepática con patrón hepatocelular, se descartaron múltiples etiologías y se consideró que pudiera ser lesión hepática medicamentosa secundaria al consumo de medicamentos desde hacía una semana para dismenorrea, y a fitoterapéuticos que consumía de forma crónica, los cuales se suspendieron. A los doce días de su egreso, reingresó por sintomatología similar; se documentó nuevamente perfil hepático con patrón hepatocelular. Al reinterrogatorio, la paciente comentó la ingesta crónica de Valeriana officinalis y Passiflora incarnata, que retomó al egreso hospitalario, por lo que luego de descartar diagnósticos diferenciales, se consideró que el cuadro era inducido por el consumo de dichos medicamentos. Durante la hospitalización se suspendió su consumo, con normalización del perfil hepático. Es importante que los consumidores estén informados sobre los riesgos potenciales de los productos herbarios, sus efectos por consumos prolongados y las implicaciones de la autoformulación.

Homeopathic and phytotherapeutic medicines containing herbal products are increasingly used, however the potential for adverse effects on users and healthcare personnel is unknown. We report the case of a 34-year-old woman who consulted for abdominal pain and nausea, accompanied by hepatocellular pattern on liver function tests. Multiple etiologies were ruled out and it was considered that it could be a drug-induced liver injury secondary to the consumption of medications she had been taking a week prior for dysmenorrhea, and phytotherapeutics that she had been taking for seve-ral years, which were all discontinued. Twelve days after her discharge, she was readmitted due to similar symptoms; a liver profile with a hepatocellular pattern was again documented. Upon further questioning, the patient mentioned a chronic intake of Valeriana officinalis and Passiflora incarnata, which she resumed upon discharge. After ruling out the differential diagnoses, it was concluded that the symptoms of the patient were induced by the consumption of these herbal products. During hos-pitalization, their consumption was suspended, with normalization of the liver profile. It is important that consumers are informed about the potential risks of herbal products, their effects from long-term use, and the implications of self-medication.

Healing Potential of Propolis Extract-Passiflora edulis Seed Oil Emulgel Against Excisional Wound: Biochemical, Histopathological, and Cytokines Level Evidence.

Propolis is rich in natural bioactive compounds, and considering its importance for many skin therapies, emulgel was prepared. This study examines how a propolis extract (PE) and Passiflora edulis seed (PS) oil emulgel affect rat deep skin wound healing. Based on preset criteria of maximum drug content and optimum drug permeation through the stratum corneum along with drug retention in the skin layers, an optimized emulgel formula based on Box-Behnken factorial design was prepared and used for subsequent in vitro and in vivo evaluations. In vivo wound-healing activities of emulgel and control treatments were investigated in a rat model. The optimized emulgel formula exhibited superior healing activity compared with plain PE suspension-treated rats on day 14 of wounding. Histopathological investigations of hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's Trichrome-stained skin sections supported this effect. Emulgel promotes cutaneous wound healing through a variety of mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory through modulation of cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1ß, and IL-6 production, and promotion of collagen fiber formation, all of which contribute to tissue remodeling. Furthermore, when compared with propolis suspension, emulgel showed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Emulgel significantly increased the skin's hydroxyproline level, antioxidant potential, wound contraction, increased penetration, and localized propolis deposition across the skin. Incorporation of PS oil into the emulgel accelerates the tissue regeneration process. The findings suggest that 5% propolis emulgel could be used as an alternative to treat wounds.

Plantas com ação no sistema nervoso central que constam na relação nacional de plantas medicinais de interesse ao sus (RENISUS) / Plants acting on the central nervous system: review plantas com ação no sistema nervoso central que constam na relação nacional de plantas medicinais de interesse ao sus (RENISUS) / Plantas con acción sobre el sistema nervioso central incluidas en la lista nacional de plantas medicinales de interés para sus (RENISUS)

A depressão é uma doença grave que atinge a população em geral, estudos epidemiológicos estimam que a prevalência da depressão ao longo da vida no Brasil está em torno de 15,5%. Os fatores que desencadeiam o aparecimento da depressão incluem fatores sociais, psicológicos, biológicos e também fatores externos específicos como eventos estressantes, solidão, consumo de álcool e drogas, doenças crônicas e dar á luz (depressão pós-parto). O objetivo da presente pesquisa consistiu em realizar uma revisão bibliográfica sobre as principais plantas medicinais com ação antidepressiva. A ansiedade vem se tornando um dos principais problemas da atualidade, sendo intensificada pela pandemia causada pelo coronavírus, onde constatou-se que durante o pico da pandemia onde os casos confirmados de COVID-19 no Brasil ascenderam de 45.757 para 330.890, e as mortes, de 2.906 para 21.048, o sentimento de tristeza/depressão atingiu 40% dos adultos brasileiros. Os sintomas de depressão podem ser amenizados quando a disponibilidade sináptica de monoaminas são aumentadas, e esse aumento pode ocorrer através da diminuição da metabolização desses neurotransmissores. Neste sentido, busca-se através da farmacoterapia a utilização de antidepressivos que disponibilizem as monoaminas na fenda sináptica. A escolha do fármaco é feita com base nos sintomas da depressão e na boa resposta a uma determinada classe de antidepressivos. Em fevereiro de 2009 o Ministério da saúde lançou a Relação Nacional de Plantas Medicinais de Interesse ao SUS (RENISUS), contendo 71 espécies vegetais que são distribuídas de forma in natura nas unidades básicas de saúde (UBS). Destas, somente três espécies apresentam efeito antidepressivo e ansiolítico comprovados na literatura sendo Matricharia chamomilla, Erytrinum mulungu e a Passiflora incarnata que também fazem parte da RENISUS. Além destas, outras espécies como a Melissa officinalis, Lippia alba, Valeriana officinalis e Piper methysticum são utilizadas pela população para tratar ansiedade, insônia e depressão, sugerindo desta forma que estas espécies sejam incluídas na RENISUS.

Depression is a serious disease that affects the general population, epidemiological studies estimate that the prevalence of depression throughout life in Brazil is around 15.5%. The factors that trigger the onset of depression include social, psychological, biological and also specific external factors such as stressful events, loneliness, alcohol and drug consumption, chronic diseases and giving birth (postpartum depression). The objective of the present research was to carry out a literature review on the main medicinal plants with antidepressant action. Anxiety has become one of the main problems of today, being intensified by the pandemic caused by the coronavirus, where it was found that during the peak of the pandemic where confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Brazil rose from 45,757 to 330,890, and deaths, from 2,906 to 21,048, the feeling of sadness/depression reached 40% of Brazilian adults. Symptoms of depression can be alleviated when synaptic availability of monoamines is increased, and this increase can occur through decreased metabolization of these neurotransmitters. In this sense, the use of antidepressants that make monoamines available in the synaptic cleft is sought through pharmacotherapy. The choice of drug is based on symptoms of depression and good response to a particular class of antidepressants. In February 2009, the Ministry of Health launched the National List of Medicinal Plants of Interest to the SUS (RENISUS), containing 71 plant species that are distributed in natura form in basic health units (UBS). Of these, only three species have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects proven in the literature, being Matricharia chamomilla, Erytrinum mulungu and Passiflora incarnata, which are also part of RENISUS. In addition to these, other species such as Melissa officinalis, Lippia alba, Valeriana officinalis and Piper methysticum are used by the population to treat anxiety, insomnia and depression, thus suggesting that these species are included in RENISUS.

Los estudios epidemiológicos estiman que la prevalencia de la depresión a lo largo de la vida en Brasil es de alrededor del 15,5%. Los factores que desencadenan la aparición de la depresión son sociales, psicológicos, biológicos y también factores externos específicos, como los acontecimientos estresantes, la soledad, el consumo de alcohol y drogas, las enfermedades crónicas y el parto (depresión posparto). El objetivo de esta investigación fue realizar una revisión bibliográfica sobre las principales plantas medicinales con acción antidepresiva. La ansiedad se ha convertido en uno de los principales problemas de la actualidad, intensificándose por la pandemia causada por el coronavirus, donde se encontró que durante el pico de la pandemia donde los casos confirmados de COVID-19 en Brasil aumentaron de 45.757 a 330.890, y las muertes, de 2.906 a 21.048, el sentimiento de tristeza/depresión alcanzó el 40% de los adultos brasileños. Los síntomas de la depresión pueden aliviarse cuando se aumenta la disponibilidad sináptica de las monoaminas, y este aumento puede producirse mediante una disminución de la metabolización de estos neurotransmisores. En este sentido, se busca a través de la farmacoterapia el uso de antidepresivos que hagan disponibles las monoaminas en la hendidura sináptica. La elección del fármaco se hace en función de los síntomas de la depresión y de la buena respuesta a una clase concreta de antidepresivos. En febrero de 2009, el Ministerio de Salud lanzó la Lista Nacional de Plantas Medicinales de Interés para el SUS (RENISUS), que contiene 71 especies de plantas que se distribuyen in natura en unidades básicas de salud (UBS). De ellas, sólo tres especies tienen efectos antidepresivos y ansiolíticos probados en la literatura: Matricharia chamomilla, Erytrinum mulungu y Passiflora incarnata, que también forman parte del RENISUS. Además de éstas, otras especies como Melissa officinalis, Lippia alba, Valeriana officinalis y Piper methysticum son utilizadas por la población para tratar la ansiedad, el insomnio y la depresión, lo que sugiere que estas especies se incluyan en el RENISUS.

Pharmacological Activities of the Genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae): A Patent Review.

BACKGROUND: Passiflora L. is a genus belonging to the Passifloraceae family, with many species widely used in folk medicine and several pharmacological activities described in the scientific literature, being a major target for the development of new therapeutic products. Studies have identified several bioactive compounds in their composition as responsible for these activities, mainly C-glycoside flavonoids. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to carry out a review of patents related to the genus and its application in several pharmacological activities, important for the development of new drugs and formulations. METHODS: The search was carried out in 5 specialized databases, INPI, EPO, WIPO, Latipat and Derwent, using the term 'Passiflora' combined with 'A61K and A61P', subclasses of section A of the International Patent Classification (IPC), which are destined to medical, dental or hygienic purposes, and therapeutic activity of chemical compounds or medicinal preparation, respectively. RESULTS: 1,198 patents citing the genus in the title or abstract have been found, 508 being duplicates. After exclusion and inclusion criteria, 23 patents written in English, Portuguese and Spanish were selected, which demonstrated biological assays in vivo with species of Passiflora as the only active constituent or incorporated in formulations with other compounds. CONCLUSION: The findings of this search showed growing interest in research and industrial areas in the pharmaceutical development with species of Passiflora, suggesting that the different bioactive compounds present in the genus can be considered as an important tool for the development of new effective and safe products with pharmacological potential.