Ethnobotany, Biological Activities and Phytochemical Compounds of Some Species of the Genus Eryngium (Apiaceae), from the Central-Western Region of Mexico.

There are approximately 250 species of Eryngium L. distributed throughout the world, with North America and South America being centers of diversity on this continent. In the central-western region of Mexico there may be around 28 species of this genus. Some Eryngium species are cultivated as leafy vegetables, ornamental, and medicinal plants. In traditional medicine they are used to treat respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, among others. This review addresses the phytochemistry and biological activities, as well as traditional uses, distribution, and characteristics of the eight species of Eryngium reported as medicinal in the central-western region of Mexico: E. cymosum, E. longifolium, E. fluitans (or mexicanum), E. beecheyanum, E. carlinae, E. comosum, E. heterophyllum, and E. nasturtiifolium. The extracts of the different Eryngium spp. have shown biological activities such as hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, renoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant, among others. E. carlinae is the most studied species, and phytochemical analyses, performed mainly by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), have shown its content of terpenoids, fatty acids, organic acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, sterols, saccharides, polyalcohols, and aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes. According to the results of this review on Eryngium spp., they constitute a relevant alternative as a source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical, food, and other industries. However, there is a lot of research to be conducted regarding phytochemistry, biological activities, cultivation, and propagation, in those species with few or no reports.

Inhibition of enzymatic activities of Bothrops asper snake venom and docking analysis of compounds from plants used in Central America to treat snakebite envenoming.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Snakebite envenoming is a public health problem of high impact in Central America. Bothrops asper, known as barba amarilla, terciopelo, and equis, is the snake species responsible for most snakebites in Central America. In this region, there is a long-standing tradition on the use of plants in the management of snakebites, especially in indigenous communities. Ethnomedical use of Eryngium foetidum L., Neurolaena lobata (L.) Cass. and Pimenta dioica (L.) Merr. to treat snakebite envenoming has been reported in Belice, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Extracts of the leaves of these plants have shown anti-venom activities in in vitro assays in previous studies. AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess the ability of organic fractions from these three plants to inhibit enzymatic activities associated with toxicity of the venom of B. asper, and to study, by docking analysis, the interaction of metalloproteinase and phospholipases A2 (PLA2) from B. asper venom with secondary metabolites previously described in these plants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Organic fractions were obtained from these three plant species and their ability to neutralize proteolytic, PLA2 and in vitro coagulant activities of B. asper venom was assessed. A phytochemical analysis was carried out in these fractions. The interaction of secondary metabolites previously described in these plants with three toxins from B. asper venom (a metalloproteinase, a PLA2 and a PLA2 homologue) was investigated by docking analysis. RESULTS: The inhibitory activity of plants was mainly concentrated in their polar fractions. Acetonic fraction from P. dioica was the most active against PLA2 activity, while the acetonic fraction of E. foetidum completely inhibited the proteolytic activity of the venom. Coagulant activity was partially inhibited only by the acetone and ethyl acetate fractions of P. dioica. Phytochemical analysis of the most bioactive fractions identified flavonoids, saponins, essential oils, coumarins, alkaloids, tannins and sesquiterpene lactones. Docking analysis revealed high affinity interactions of several secondary metabolites of these plants with residues in the vicinity of the catalytic site of these enzymes and, in the case of PLA2 homologue myotoxin II, in the hydrophobic channel. CONCLUSIONS: Various fractions from these plants have inhibitory activity against enzymatic actions of B. asper venom which are directly associated with toxicological effects. Docking analysis showed structural evidence of the interaction of secondary metabolites with three toxins. These observations provide support to the potential of these plants to inhibit relevant toxic components of this snake venom.

Contribution of fasting and postprandial glucose-lowering mechanisms to the acute hypoglycemic effect of traditionally used Eryngium cymosum F.Delaroche.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Eryngium cymosum F. Delaroche was detected as a traditional remedy against type 2 diabetes consumed by patients of Tlanchinol in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. AIM OF THE STUDY: Assessing the hypoglycemic effect and safety of the traditional extract of E. cymosum and relating it to key glucose-lowering mechanisms both in fasting and postprandial state. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The aqueous extract of E. cymosum was subjected to HPLC analysis to identify its main components. Hyperglycaemic STZ-NA Wistar rats were administered with the extract to evaluate its effect on blood glucose levels and a possible dose-dependence. Afterward, it was evaluated in both pyruvate and maltose tolerance tests in STZ-NA rats to characterize its effect on gluconeogenesis and carbohydrate breakdown, two of the main mechanisms responsible for fasting and postprandial hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes patients. In addition, the inhibitory capacity of the extract was evaluated on key enzymes involved in gluconeogenesis and a-glucosidases. Moreover, insulin concentrations were measured in normoglycemic rats in both conditions to establish a link between the hypoglycaemic effect of the extract with insulin release and functioning. RESULTS: Caffeic acid (1), chlorogenic acid (2), and rosmarinic acid (3) were identified as the main constituents of the aqueous extract of E. cymosum, which exerted a hypoglycaemic effect in hyperglycaemic STZ-NA rats. It has a significant antihyperglycemic effect in the pyruvate tolerance test, and it was able to reduce the postprandial hyperglycaemia in maltose tolerance tests significantly. Moreover, it effectively reduced the activity of both gluconeogenic enzymes reaching almost 100% of inhibition, while it presented a modest 32% inhibition of aglucosidases. On the other hand, the extract decreased insulin levels after its oral administration in healthy rats in both nutritional states, without affecting normoglycemia in normal curves and reducing the postprandial peak in glucose load curves. CONCLUSIONS: The traditional consumed form of aerial parts of E. cymosum is safe and regulated glucose levels both in fasting and in postprandial state.

In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of an ethanol extract from the aerial parts of Eryngium carlinae F. Delaroche (Apiaceae).

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Eryngium carlinae F. Delaroche (Apiaceae) is an herb used in folk medicine as a diuretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory agent. AIM OF THE STUDY: This work assessed the diuretic, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory actions of an ethanol extract from the leaves and stems of Eryngium carlinae (ECE). These ethnomedicinal properties of ECE were scientifically validated using in vitro and in vivo assays. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The antinociceptive and diuretic actions of ECE (10-200 mg/kg p.o.) were assessed with the acetic acid-induced writhing test and by using metabolic cages to house mice, respectively. The in vitro anti-inflammatory actions of ECE (1-500 µg/ml) were evaluated using LPS-stimulated primary murine macrophages, and the in vivo anti-inflammatory actions were assessed using the TPA-induced ear edema test (2 mg/ear) and carrageenan-induced paw edema test (50-200 mg/kg p.o.). The production of inflammatory mediators was estimated using in vitro and in vivo assays. RESULTS: ECE lacked antinociceptive and diuretic effects. ECE increased the production of IL-10 in LPS-stimulated macrophages (EC50 = 37.8 pg/ml) and the carrageenan-induced paw edema test (ED50 = 82.6 mg/kg). ECE showed similar in vivo anti-inflammatory actions compared to those observed with indomethacin. CONCLUSION: ECE exerts in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory effects by increasing the release of IL-10.

Molluscicidal and parasiticidal activities of Eryngium triquetrum essential oil on Schistosoma mansoni and its intermediate snail host Biomphalaria glabrata, a double impact.

BACKGROUND: Freshwater snails are the intermediate hosts of a large variety of trematode flukes such as Schistosoma mansoni responsible for one of the most important parasitic diseases caused by helminths, affecting 67 million people worldwide. Recently, the WHO Global Vector Control Response 2017-2030 (GVCR) programme reinforced its message for safer molluscicides as part of required strategies to strengthen vector control worldwide. Here, we present the essential oil from Eryngium triquetrum as a powerful product with molluscicide and parasiticide effect against S. mansoni and the snail intermediate host Biomphalaria glabrata. METHODS: In the present study, we describe using several experimental approaches, the chemical composition of E. triquetrum essential oil extract and its biological effects against the snail B. glabrata and its parasite S. mansoni. Vector and the free-swimming larval stages of the parasite were exposed to different oil concentrations to determine the lethal concentration required to produce a mortality of 50% (LC50) and 90% (LC90). In addition, toxic activity of this essential oil was analyzed against embryos of B. glabrata snails by monitoring egg hatching and snail development. Also, short-time exposure to sublethal molluscicide concentrations on S. mansoni miracidia was performed to test a potential effect on parasite infectivity on snails. Mortality of miracidia and cercariae of S. mansoni is complete for 5, 1 and 0.5 ppm of oil extract after 1 and 4 h exposure. RESULTS: The major chemical component found in E. triquetrum oil determined by GC-FID and GC/MS analyses is an aliphatic polyacetylene molecule, the falcarinol with 86.9-93.1% of the total composition. The LC50 and LC90 values for uninfected snails were 0.61 and 1.02 ppm respectively for 24 h exposure. At 0.5 ppm, the essential oil was two times more toxic to parasitized snails with a mortality rate of 88.8 ± 4.8%. Moderate embryonic lethal effects were observed at the concentration of 1 ppm. Severe surface damage in miracidia was observed with a general loss of cilia that probably cause their immobility. Miracidia exposed 30 min to low concentration of plant extract (0.1 ppm) were less infective with 3.3% of prevalence compare to untreated with a prevalence of 44%. CONCLUSIONS: Essential oil extracted from E. triquetrum and falcarinol must be considered as a promising product for the development of new interventions for schistosomiasis control and could proceed to be tested on Phase II according to the WHO requirements.

Nomenclatura y usos del culantro de monte (Eryngium foetidum L) en la comunidad San Antonio de Padua, cantón Quinsaloma, Provincia de Los Ríos ­ Ecuador / Names and uses of the Culantro de Monte (Eryngium foetidum L) in the San Antonio de Padua community, Los Ríos ­ Ecuador

Culantro de monte (Eryngium foetidum L.) is a biennial herb of tropical origin very frequent in America, Africa and the Caribbean. With the arrival of Europeans in the fifteenth century, it managed to be distributed to various locations in Asia and Europe. The present study was carried out in the San Antonio de Padua community in the Province of Los Ríos - Ecuador to collect information, through interviews with the residents, regarding the nomenclature and uses of this aromatic herb. It was found that 52% of the interviewees mention a nutritional use, especially as a condiment for fish soup, buns and stews, while 26% say they use this plant for medicinal purposes in infusions to cure stomach and joint pain. The variety of metabolites that it possesses, such as eryngial (E-2-Dodecenal), extends its range of applications in modern medicine. We concluded that the transfer of ethnobotanical information still remains in the community, but the young generations are unaware of several of this plant's applications.

El culantro de monte (Eryngium foetidum L.) pertenece a la familia Apiaceae, es una hierba terrestre bienal de origen tropical muy frecuente en América, África y el Caribe, con la llegada de los europeos en el siglo XV, logró distribuirse a varias regiones de Asia y Europa. El presente estudio se realizó en la comunidad San Antonio de Padua en la provincia de Los Ríos ­ Ecuador, tuvo como objetivo recopilar información, mediante entrevistas escritas a los pobladores, referente a la nomenclatura y usos de esta hierba. Se encontró que un 52% de los entrevistados le da un uso culinario para preparar sopas de pescado, sancochos, bollos y estofados, mientras que un 26% dice utilizar esta planta con fines medicinales en infusiones para tratar en el ser humano dolores estomacales y dolores de las articulaciones. La variedad de metabolitos que posee, como el eryngial (E-2-Dodecenal), amplía su rango de aplicaciones en la medicina moderna. Se concluye que el flujo de información etnobotánica se mantiene en la comunidad, pero las nuevas generaciones desconocen las varias aplicaciones que tiene esta especie.

Phytochemical Screening and Acanthamoebic Activity of Shoots from in Vitro Cultures and in Vivo Plants of Eryngium alpinum L.-The Endangered and Protected Species.

Genetically uniform shoots of Eryngium alpinum L. cultured in vitro were subjected to the qualitative analysis applying the UPLC-HESI-HRMS technique. In vitro cultures give the opportunity to perform the phytochemical studies on the protected species without harvesting the plant material from the natural environment. The phytochemical screening of the crude methanolic extracts of shoots, both from in vitro cultures and in vivo plants, revealed the presence of phenolic acids, coumarins, flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, amino acids, or dipeptides. Active compounds detected are known to have medicinal importance, and for this reason, the present study represents a preliminary investigation of the extracts against pathogenic and opportunistic amoeba. Among the extracts tested, the extract of shoots from in vitro cultures exhibited remarkable amoebicidal action against trophozoites. On the second day of treatment, the extract at the concentrations of 5 mg/mL, 2.5 mg/mL, and 0.5 mg/mL showed the highest antiamoebicidal effect: the inhibition of trophozoites reached 81.14%, 66.38%, and 54.99%, respectively. To our best knowledge, the present report is the first to show the phytochemical screening and to discuss the antiamoebic activity of Eryngium alpinum L. shoots, both from in vitro cultures and in vivo plants.

Antimicrobial and Light-Enhanced Antimicrobial Activities, Cytotoxicity and Chemical Variability of All Tunisian Eryngium Species.

This study was performed on all Eryngium species growing in Tunisia in order to evaluate their intra and interspecies variabilities and to investigate their biological activities. These species are used in traditional medicine, and literature about the phytochemical investigations of most of them is scarce. Antimicrobial and light-enhanced activities were tested against multiresistant microorganisms and extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing bacteria (ESBL). All studied species showed antimicrobial effect with several MIC values lower than 70 µg/ml. Tested Eryngium species have proven to be a promising source of photoactive compounds, while light-enhanced activity offers an alternative for the inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms which is currently subjected to a great interest. This is the first report of this activity in genus Eryngium. A significant improvement of antimicrobial activity with UV irradiation was observed, mainly for E. dichotomum, E. ilicifolium and E. triquetrum. Cytotoxicity, studied for the first time for the most species, was evaluated against cancer (J774) and non-cancer (WI38) human cell lines. Chemical composition of volatile compounds presented in the most active crude extracts (petroleum ether extracts) of the aerial parts was investigated using GC/MS analysis and was submitted to statistical analyses. It revealed their high content of bioactive phytochemicals, particularly oxygenated sesquiterpenes like spathulenol, ledol and α-bisabolol but also hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes such as ß-bisabolene and copaene, as well as polyacetylene derivatives such as falcarinol. Statistical analyses permitted to evaluate the interrelations between all Tunisian Eryngium species.

Eryngium carlinae Ethanol Extract Corrects Lipid Abnormalities in Wistar Rats with Experimental Diabetes.

Abnormalities in lipid metabolism, associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), frequently occur in people with diabetes. Eryngium carlinae is a plant used in traditional medicine to treat lipid abnormalities. The chemical composition and hypolipidemic activity of the ethanolic extract of E. carlinae were analyzed to broaden our knowledge of its mechanism of action. The ethanolic extract of E. carlinae was tested for hypolipidemic activity by oral administration for 40 days. Atorvastatin, a widely used statin, was also administered to compare its effect with that of the extract. Serum was used for analysis of the lipid profile and liver microsomes to assess 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-r) levels. The extract was able to reduce total cholesterol and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (C-HDL) levels and increase the C-HDL levels reduced in diabetes, decreasing the atherogenic index and therefore the risk of suffering CVD at the same level as atorvastatin. The HMG-CoA reductase activity and LDL-r levels were not modified by the administration of E. carlinae. The results demonstrate the hypolipidemic potential of ethanol extract of E. carlinae and support its use in traditional medicine as a hypolipidemic agent.

Comparison of extraction methods for chemical composition, antibacterial, depigmenting and antioxidant activities of Eryngium maritimum.

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to develop a natural cosmetic ingredient from Eryngium maritimum regarding the high interest of consumer in these ingredients for cosmetic use. METHODS: Five eco-friendly techniques of extraction were applied to Eryngium maritimum aerial parts among conventional reflux extraction (with green solvent) and alternative techniques (supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and ultrasound combined with microwave extraction (UAE + MAE)). Several criteria were evaluated to allow the optimal choice for an industrialized ingredient: yield of extraction, chemical composition and biological activities such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-collagenase and anti-tyrosinase activities. The extracts were analysed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS), and the hierarchical Pearson classification (HCA) allowed to highlight the group of metabolites preferably extracted depending on the technique of extraction used. RESULTS: The biological results highlight that SFE and 80% ethanol reflux extracts have the best responses to biological activities such as antimicrobial, depigmenting and antioxidant activities, followed by water reflux extraction. Their activities might be due to the presence of different groups of metabolites favourably extracted by these techniques. CONCLUSION: Among these extractions, water reflux extraction provided the optimal results considering the compromise between extraction yield and biological activities for the development of a cosmetic ingredient.

OBJECTIF: L'objectif est d'évaluer différentes méthodes d'extraction permettant l'obtention d'un ingrédient cosmétique naturel, à partir d'Eryngium maritimum, efficace biologiquement, et respectant les principes du développement durable et de la beauté éthique et responsable. MÉTHODES: Cinq techniques d'extraction respectueuses de l'environnement ont été appliquées à des parties aériennes d'Eryngium maritimum tels que le reflux conventionnel (avec des solvants agrosourcés) et des techniques alternatives (extraction au fluide supercritique (SFE), extraction assistée par micro-ondes (MAE), extraction assistée par ultrasons (UAE) et ultrasons combinés aux micro-ondes (UAE + MAE)). Plusieurs critères ont été évalués pour permettre le choix optimal d'un ingrédient cosmétique efficace, naturel et industrialisable : rendement d'extraction, composition chimique (sureté) et efficacités biologiques (antibactérien, antioxydant, anti-âge et dépigmentant). Les extraits ont été analysés par chromatographie liquide spectrométrie de masse (LC-HRMS), et la classification par hiérarchie de Pearson (HCA) a permis de mettre relier les groupes de métabolites extraits de préférence par technique d'extraction testée. RÉSULTATS: Les résultats biologiques mettent en évidence que les extractions par SFE et à reflux par éthanol 80% permettaient les meilleures réponses (les plus importantes) pour des activités antimicrobiennes, éclaircissantes et antioxydantes, devant l'extraction à reflux par l'eau. Leurs activités pourraient être dues à la présence préférentielle de certains groupes de métabolites extraits plus favorablement par ces techniques. CONCLUSION: Parmi les extractions testées, l'extraction par reflux à l'eau (procédé respectueux de l'environnement) d'Eryngium maritimum, fournit le meilleur compromis en termes d'efficacités biologiques plurielles, de rendement d'extraction et de productivité/consommation énergétique, pour le développement d'un ingrédient cosmétique 'ecofriendly'.

Oxygenated C17 polyacetylene metabolites from Algerian Eryngium tricuspidatum L. roots: Structure and biological activity.

The secondary metabolite pattern of Eryngium tricuspidatum has been found to be dominated by C17 acetylene oxylipins, according to the chemistry reported in the literature for the genus Eryngium. Two new oxylipins, 11-acetoxy-falcarindiol (4) and 1,2-dihydro-11-acetoxy-falcarindiol (5) have been isolated, along with main related polyacetylenes 1-3 and the already known monoterpene aldehydes 6-10, from the petroleum ether extract of roots. The structure and the absolute configuration of compounds 4 and 5 have been determined by spectroscopic methods as well as by comparison with related known compounds. Polyacetylenes 1-4 inhibited significantly the in vitro growth of a series of cancer cell lines, ranging from 0.3 to 29 µM, whereas 5 was inactive.

Essential Oil of Algerian Eryngium campestre: Chemical Variability and Evaluation of Biological Activities.

The chemical composition of essential oils extracted from aerial parts of Eryngium campestre collected in 37 localities from Western Algeria was characterized using GC-FID and GC/MS analyses. Altogether, 52 components, which accounted for 70.1 to 86.8% of the total composition oils were identified. The main compounds were Germacrene D (0.4-53.4%), Campestrolide (1.6-35.3%), Germacrene B (0.2-21.5%), Myrcene (0.1-8.4%), α-Cadinol (0.2-7.6%), Spathulenol (0.1-7.6%), Eudesma-4(15)-7-dien-1-ß-ol (0.1-7.6%) and τ-Cadinol (0.3-5.5%). The chemical compositions of essential oils obtained from separate organs and during the complete vegetative cycle of the plant were also studied. With the uncommon 17-membered ring lactone named Campestrolide as the main component, Algerian E. campestre essential oils exhibited a remarkable chemical composition. A study of the chemical variability using statistical analysis allowed the discrimination of two main clusters according to the geographical position of samples. The study contributes to the better understanding of the relationship between the plant and its environment. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was assessed against twelve strains bacteria and two yeasts involved in foodborne and nosocomial infections using paper disc diffusion and dilution agar assays. The in vitro study demonstrated a strong activity against Gram-positive strains such as S. aureus, B. cereus, and E. faecalis. The cytotoxicity and antiparasitic activities (on Lmm and Tbb) of the collective essential oil and one sample rich in campestrolide, as well as some enriched fractions or fractions containing other terpenic compounds, were also analyzed. Campestrolide seems to be one compound responsible for the cytotoxic and antileishmanial effect, while myrcene or/and trans-ß-farnesene have a more selective antitrypanosomal activity.

Toxicity of Vipera palaestinae venom and antagonistic effects of methanolic leaf extract of Eryngium creticum lam.

Vipera palaestinae is responsible for many venomous incidents in the Middle East. However, this species is not included in the antigenic pool of venoms for the production of the regionally available polyvalent antivenoms. In an attempt to develop a potential complementary alternative therapy for snakebite patients, this study is investigating the antagonistic effect of Eryngium creticum against V. palaestinae venom. In this context, the concentration of the venom as well as the electrophoretic profile, and the venom LD50 were determined by intraperitoneal injection (ip). The methanolic leaf extract was prepared, and its safety on rats was examined. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 8 groups (n = 6); G1-G3 were injected subplantar in the right hind paws with 2.5, 3.125, and 3.75 mg kg-1 then 200 mg kg-1 extract ip. G4-G6 were given the same venom dose with no extract, respectively. Controls were G7 that only had the extract ip, and G8 that was injected subplantar with PBS. The swollen paws were measured at Hour 0 (before injection), Hour 1, Hour 6, and Hour 24. IL-6 and TNF-α were measured in serum using ELISA. Histopathological changes were examined in paw sections. The pooled venom concentration was 176.93 ±â€¯35.81 mg ml-1, revealed 10 protein bands (5-80 kDa), and the LD50 via ip rout was 6.56 mg kg-1. Paw edema peaked at Hour 1. At Hour 6, edema in G1 was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) compared to G6, while at Hour 24 there was no significant difference between all groups including the controls. Treated animals in G1-G3 expressed IL-6 significantly lower (p < 0.001) than untreated G4-G6, respectively. Levels of TNF-α in G1 and G2 were significantly (p < 0.001) lower than G3-G6, while G5 and G6 were significantly (p < 0.001) higher than G1-G4. Histopathological changes showed intensifying edema, hemorrhage, and inflammation with incrementing venom doses. Sections from treated animals expressed less adverse changes compared to untreated animals. Together, the outcomes are encouraging future utilization of E. creticum as a supportive remedy for snakebite cases.

Chemical and Bioactivity Evaluation of Eryngium planum and Cnicus benedictus Polyphenolic-Rich Extracts.

This study evaluated the biological activities of Eryngium planum and of Cnicus benedictus extracts enriched in polyphenols obtained by nanofiltration. The HPLC-MS analysis showed that E. planum contains mainly flavonoids, especially rutin, while in C. benedictus extracts show the high concentration of the phenolic acids, principally the chlorogenic acid and sinapic acid. Herein, there is the first report of ursolic acid, genistin, and isorhamnetin in E. planum and C. benedictus. C. benedictus polyphenolic-rich extract showed high scavenging activity (IC50=0.0081 mg/mL) comparable to that of standard compound (ascorbic acid) and a higher reducing power (IC50= 0.082 mg/mL), with IC50 having a significantly lower value than IC50 for ascorbic acid. Both extracts were nontoxic to NCTC cell line. Among the investigated herbs, E. planum polyphenolic-rich extract showed the highest inhibitory activities with the IC50 value of 31.3 µg/mL for lipoxygenase and 24.6 µg/mL for hyaluronidase. Both polyphenolic-rich extracts had a higher inhibitory effect on α-amylase and α-glucosidase than that of the acarbose. The synergistic effect of ursolic acid, rutin, chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, genistin, and daidzein identified in polyphenolic-rich extracts could be mainly responsible for the pharmacological potentials of the studied extracts used in managing inflammation and diabetes.

Structural Elucidation and Cytotoxicity of a New 17-Membered Ring Lactone from Algerian Eryngium campestre.

The chemical composition of a hexanic extract of Eryngium campestre, obtained from its aerial parts, was investigated by GC-FID, GC/MS, HRMS, NMR and VCD analyses. The main compounds were germacrene D (23.6%), eudesma-4(15)-7-dien-1-ß-ol (8.2%) and falcarindiol (9.4%), which are associated with a new uncommon and naturally found 17-membered ring lactone. This 17-membered ring features conjugated acetylenic bonds, named campestrolide (23.0%). The crude extract showed moderate antitrypanosomal (Trypanosoma brucei brucei), antileishmanial (Leishmania mexicana mexicana) and anticancer (cancerous macrophage-like murine cells) activities, and also displayed cytotoxicity, (human normal fibroblasts) in similar concentration ranges (IC50 = 3.0, 3.9, 4.0 and 4.4 µg/mL respectively). Likewise, campestrolide displayed low activity on all tested cells (IC50: 12.5⁻19.5 µM) except on Trypanosoma, on which it was very active and moderately selective (IC50 = 2.2 µM. SI= 8.9). In conclusion, the new compound that has been described, displaying a singular structure, possesses interesting antitrypanosomal activity that should be further investigated and improved.

Nutritional Evaluation of Non-Conventional Vegetables in Brazil.

The objective of this study was to characterize the nutritional compounds of interest present in vegetables known as non-conventional, in Brazil. The following evaluations were carried out: antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, calories, carbohydrates, humidity, lipids, proteins, fiber, acidity and quantification of minerals (P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn and B). The species studied were Amaranthus hybridus L., Amaranthus viridis L., Basella alba L., Eryngium campestre L., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Lactuca canadensis L., Rumex acetosa L., Stachys byzantina K. Koch, Tropaeolum majus L. and Xanthosoma sagittifolium L. Representative samples of plant structures of interest were harvested from each species suitable for human consumption such as leaves, flowers and flower buds. The results were submitted to multivariate analysis - principal components analysis (PCA). All the species present nutritional compounds of interest in different levels among the evaluated structures.

Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of the volatile fraction extracted from air-dried fruits of Tunisian Eryngium maritimum L. ecotypes.

BACKGROUND: Eryngium maritimum L., also known as 'sea holly', is a typical dune plant species belonging to the Apiaceae family and commonly used in Tunisia for therapeutic purposes in folk medicine. In the present study, the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of the volatile fraction extracted from air-dried fruits of five Tunisian E. maritimum ecotypes were determined. RESULTS: The total volatile amount ranged from 0.31% to 0.93% (w d.w.-1 ). Sixty-six volatile components were identified by means of GC-MS and accounted for 77.05-86.65% of the total extracted volatile oil. The majority of the identified metabolites were hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes and oxygenated sesquiterpenes, amounting on average to 46.69% and 30.01% of total volatiles, respectively. The principal individual components were germacrene D (13.62-31.71%), 15-hydroxy-α-muurolene (12.04-18.58%), and germacrene B (6.77-15.04%). Significant differences were noticed among E. maritimum populations. The volatile profile of E. maritimum fruits was consistently different from those of the aerial parts and roots of plants of the same species reported in previous investigations. Average radical scavenging capacity of the volatile fraction, as determined by DPPH and ABTS tests, was twice higher than that of the Trolox control. CONCLUSION: This study characterised for the first time the fruits of E. maritimum for the composition and radical-scavenging capacity of their volatile fraction. The growth location confirmed as a pivotal factor in influencing the volatile profile of the fruits. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Antibacterial and antifungal potentials of the solvents extracts from Eryngium caeruleum, Notholirion thomsonianum and Allium consanguineum.

BACKGROUND: Herbal medicines have long been used for various ailments in various societies and natural bioactive compounds are gaining more and more importance due to various factors. In this context, three plant species i.e., Eryngium caeruleum, Notholirion thomsonianum and Allium consanguineum have been aimed for the scientific verification of their purported traditional uses against various infectious diseases. METHODS: In this study, three plants were assayed for antibacterial and antifungal potentials. The antibacterial investigations were performed via well diffusion method and nutrient broth dilution method. The bacterial strains used in the study were Enterococcus faecalis, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The antifungal potential was investigated by dilution method of Muller-Hinton agar media of the plants' samples. The fungal strains used were Aspergillis fumigatus, Aspergillis flavus and Aspergillis niger. Ceftriaxone and nystatin were used as standard drugs in antibacterial and antifungal assays respectively. RESULTS: Different fractions from N. thomsonianum were tested against five bacterial strains while the samples from A. consanguineum and E. caeruleum were tested against six bacterial strains. All the samples exhibited prominent antibacterial activity against the tested strains. Overall, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were found most potent among the three plants' samples. N. thomsonianum excelled among the three plants in antibacterial activity. Similarly, in antifungal assay, N. thomsonianum exhibited strong antifungal activity against the fungal strains. The chloroform fraction displayed MFCs of 175.67 ± 5.20***, 29.33 ± 5.48*** and 63.00 ± 4.93*** µg/ml against Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger respectively. The whole study demonstrates that all the three plant species were active against tested bacterial and fungal strains. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded from our findings that N. thomsonianum, A. consanguineum and E. caeruleum have broad antibacterial and antifungal potentials. In all of the plants' samples, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were more active. Furthermore, being the potent samples, the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions of these plants can be subjected to column chromatography for the isolation of more effective antimicrobial drugs.

In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Helicobacter Activities of Eryngium foetidum (Apiaceae), Bidens pilosa (Asteraceae), and Galinsoga ciliata (Asteraceae) against Helicobacter pylori.

This study was performed to evaluate the antimicrobial activities of extracts of Bidens pilosa, Galinsoga ciliata, and Eryngium foetidum against 6 clinical strains of Helicobacter pylori in vitro and in vivo. Broth microdilution method was used in vitro. In vivo, Swiss mice were inoculated with H. pylori and divided into 5 groups; the control group received the vehicle and the four others received 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of methanol extract of Eryngium foetidum and ciprofloxacin (500 mg/kg) for 7 days, respectively. Helicobacter pylori colonization and number of colonies in gastric biopsies culture were assessed on days 1 and 7 after treatment. The lowest MIC value (64 µg/mL) and the best spectrum of bactericidal effect (MBC/MIC = 1) were obtained with the methanol extract of Eryngium foetidum. The number of H. pylori infected animals was 17% (plant-extract) and 0% (ciprofloxacin) compared to 100% for the infected untreated group. Plant-extract (381.9 ± 239.5 CFU) and ciprofloxacin (248 ± 153.2 CFU) significantly reduced bacterial load in gastric mucosa compared to untreated, inoculated mice (14350 ± 690 CFU). Conclusion. The present data provided evidence that methanol extract of Eryngium foetidum could be a rich source of metabolites with antimicrobial activity to fight Helicobacter pylori infections.

Phytochemical Study of Eryngium triquetrum: Isolation of Polyacetylenes and Lignans.

Phytochemical investigation of the ethyl acetate extract from the aerial parts of Eryngium triquetrum Vahl resulted in the isolation of new polyacetylenes, triquetridiol (6) and trans-epoxy-triquetrol (7a/7b, diastereomeric mixture), and the lignan demethoxy carolignan Z (8a/8b, erythro/threo pair), together with a series of related known metabolites. Additionally, some already reported phenolic and flavonoid compounds were also identified in the extract. Structural elucidation of the new compounds was made by spectroscopic analysis, mainly NMR and mass spectrometry. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of polyacetylenes and lignans from E. triquetrum.