Enhancement of the quality and preservation of frozen burgers by active coating containing Rosa canina L. extract nanoemulsions.

This study aimed to assess the impact of an edible coating holding within chia seed gum (CSG) and Rosa canina L. extract (RCE) nanoemulsions (10%, 20%, and 40% w/w) on the oxidation, microbial load, and sensory characteristics of burgers in a 90-day frozen storage period. Based on the findings, the active CSG coatings showed remarkable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. By increasing the level of RCE nanoemulsions, the functional activity of coatings significantly increased (P < 0.05). Upon the termination of the storage period, the lowest microbial load (i.e., a decrease of 0.5-2 log CFU/g in the number of different bacteria compared to the control) and oxidation stability were observed in burgers coated with a CSG solution containing 40% RCE nanoemulsions. This burger also showed the highest sensory acceptance on the last day. In conclusion, it is proposed to use the active coating produced in this study to maintain meat products' quality and safety and increase their shelf-life.

Acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies of methanol extract of Trema orientalis (Linn) blume in albino wistar rats.

Background: The safety potential of the methanol extract of Trema orientalis (TOM) leaf was evaluated in albino Wistar rats using biochemical, haematological, and histological indices in both acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies. Methods: The animals were managed following the National Institute of Health (NIH) stipulated protocols for handling laboratory animals. The weight of each animal was recorded upon arrival and monitored throughout the study. The animals were allowed to acclimatize for 14 days, after which they were reweighed and randomly distributed into four groups of three female rats (n=12) for acute toxicity studies. Group A was given distilled water, and Groups B, C, and D were given a single dose of 2000, 4000, and 5000 mg/kg bw TOM extract, respectively. On day 15, each animal was anaesthetized and then euthanized. For the sub-chronic toxicity study, animals were randomly distributed into five groups of eight female rats (n=40). They were dosed daily for 28 days. Group A (Negative control group) was given distilled water. Groups B, C, and D had 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg bw TOM extract and Group E (Vehicle control group) were given 0.25 % of sodium carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC). Five animals were anaesthetized and then euthanized on day 29, while three animals were kept for recovery evaluation for another two weeks without further administration of the extract. Ten organs were excised from each animal and weighed. The liver and kidney were processed for histopathological studies, while the blood samples were collected for biochemical and haematological assays. Results: From acute toxicity studies, the LD50 value of TOM extract was estimated to exceed 5000 mg/kg bw via oral passage. From Sub-chronic toxicity studies, biochemical results showed a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in total protein, albumin, globulin, AST, ALP, and ALT in a dose-dependent manner. Histology of the liver and kidney tissues of all the animals except the kidney of the 800 mg/kg group had no visible lesions; this sets the safety dose for TOM at above 400 mg/kg but below 800 mg/kg. Recovery animals had significantly (p < 0.05) increased total protein, total bilirubin, and ALP and decreased albumin and direct bilirubin levels. Conclusion: This study reports the safety dose of TOM, a reputable medicinal plant extract. This is the first study reporting that the LD50 value of TOM extract exceeds 5000 mg/kg bw via oral passage.

Plant extract mediated in-situ synthesis of iron/manganese alginate hydrosphere and its excellent recovery of rare earth elements in mine wastewater.

The recovery of rare earth elements (REEs) is a major issue based on environmental governance and sustainable resource utilization. In this study, we developed a novel hydrogel material (Fe/Mn@ALG) by anchoring Fe/Mn NPs on alginate spheres, where Fe/Mn NPs were in-situ synthesized using Euphorbia cochinchensi leaf extract as reduced and protection agents. The Fe/Mn@ALG was applied directly to real mine wastewater, generating efficient and selective recovery of REEs with the coexistence of numerous competing metal ions. As results have shown, Fe/Mn@ALG was a useful adsorbent for REEs with an adsorption efficiency 78.62 % achieved, which was also confirmed by distribution coefficients (Kd), up to 2451.66 mL·g-1. Furthermore, Fe/Mn@ALG exhibited preferential response to REEs over other metal ions with the separation factor (SF) being up to 240. This great adsorption performance and selectivity toward REEs were attributed to its specific surface area, oxygen-rich functional groups and negatively charged surface in acid wastewater. Furthermore, REEs could be greatly desorbed from Fe/Mn@ALG with output concentration being three times higher than the initial concentration. Additionally, Fe/Mn@ALG maintained its good adsorption performance with efficiency reaching 72.24 % after five reuses. Overall, Fe/Mn@ALG can be considered as a promising candidate for wastewater remediation and sustainable management of resources.

Application of bacterial nanocellulose film loaded with sodium nitrite, sumac, and black carrot extracts to reduce sodium nitrite, extend shelf life, and inhibit Clostridium perfringens in cooked beef ham.

This study aimed to develop innovative bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) films incorporated with sodium nitrite (SN), sumac extract (SE), and black carrot extract (BCE) to reduce sodium nitrite, extend shelf life, and inhibit Clostridium perfringens in cooked beef ham. The ham covered with BNC film immersed in SE (10 % w/v) + BCE (5 % w/v) + SN (125 ppm) (SE10BCE5SN125) exhibited the lowest microbial load (4.39, 4.32, 3.83, and 4.6 log cycles reductions in total viable count, lactic acid bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and C. perfringens, respectively) and the lowest oxidation rate (70 % reduction compared to control) on day 28 of storage. The samples covered with SE10BCE5SN125 film had also the lowest level of residual nitrite (64 % lower compered to positive control). Positive control (ham containing 120 ppm SN) and ham covered with SE10BCE5SN125 film had the highest redness. It was concluded that the films developed in this study have the potential to reduce the use of sodium nitrite in beef ham production.

Phytochemical Profile of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf Lemongrass Essential Oil from Northeastern Thailand and Its Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Attributes and Cytotoxic Effects on HT-29 Human Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells.

Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer in Thailand, prompting the search for alternative or preventive treatments using natural constituents. In this study, the authors employed hydrodistillation to extract Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf (lemongrass) essential oil (LEO) from plants in northeastern Thailand and assessed its chemical profile, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. The LEO displayed potent antioxidant activities in DPPH and hydroxyl scavenging assays with IC50 values of 2.58 ± 0.08 and 4.05 ± 0.12 mg/mL, respectively, and demonstrated antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli, Cutibacterium acnes, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Staphylococcus aureus at 8-10 µg/mL. At 48 h, the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay showed the LEO exhibiting low cell viability (3%) at concentrations of 200-400 µg/mL, with an IC50 value of 82.46 ± 1.73 µg/mL, while in the clonogenic assay it exhibited a lower IC50 value of 23.11 ± 1.80 µg/mL. The GC-MS analysis identified citral (79.24%) consisting of 44.52% geranial and 34.72% neral, and ß-myrcene (5.56%). The addition of LEO significantly influenced apoptotic genes (Bcl-2, Bax, p21, and Caspase-3) and proteins, as indicated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot studies. Results suggested that LEO initiated apoptosis through intrinsic pathways and demonstrated potential as a chemopreventive, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agent with substantial health advantages.

Effect of UV Radiation and Temperature on Radical Scavenging Activity of Hippophaë rhamnoides L. and Vaccinium oxycoccos L. Fruit Extracts.

New active ingredients, including those of plant origin, which could protect the skin against various harmful factors, such as UV radiation and free radicals responsible for skin ageing, are still being sought. The present study was focused on the antioxidant activity of Hippophaë rhamnoides L. and Vaccinium oxycoccos L. fruit glycolic extracts. Investigations were also carried out to evaluate the effect of UVA radiation and the storage of the sea buckthorn and European cranberry extracts at an elevated temperature of 50 °C on their interactions with free radicals. The kinetics of the interactions of the extracts with DPPH were assessed using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The sea buckthorn and European cranberry extracts quench the EPR signal of DPPH free radicals, which indicates their antioxidant potential. The EPR method further showed that a mixture of sea buckthorn and cranberry extracts in a volume ratio of 2:1 was more potent in quenching free radicals compared to a mixture of these extracts in a ratio of 1:2. Our findings demonstrate that long-term UVA radiation exposure reduces the ability of sea buckthorn and cranberry extracts to interact with free radicals. Moreover, storage at elevated temperatures does not affect the interaction of sea buckthorn extract with free radicals, while it alters the ability of cranberry extract to interact with free radicals. This study has demonstrated that an important factor in maintaining the ability to scavenge radicals is the storage of raw materials under appropriate conditions. H. rhamnoides and V. oxycoccos extracts can be used as valuable raw materials with antioxidant properties in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

The Role of Plant Extracts in Enhancing Nutrition and Health for Dogs and Cats: Safety, Benefits, and Applications.

Plant extracts, derived from various natural sources, encompass primary and secondary metabolites, which include plant polysaccharides, polyphenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenes, and volatile oils. These compounds exhibit a range of biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial functions. Currently, polyphenols and other bioactive compounds are being incorporated into the diets of farm animals, fish, and pets to promote health benefits. Despite this, the application and potential of plant extracts in canine and feline nutrition have not been comprehensively explored. Many aspects of the mechanisms underlying the action of these plant metabolites remain to be analyzed and elucidated. Furthermore, leveraging natural plant extracts for the treatment of clinical conditions in dogs and cats is a crucial component of clinical nutrition. Consequently, this review aims to highlight the impact of plant extracts on overall health, gastrointestinal health, immune health, cardiovascular health, redox balance, and pathology in dogs and cats.

The effect of Lonicerae flos and Rhizoma curcumae longae extract on the intestinal development and function of broilers.

This study was conducted to explore effects of Lonicerae flos and Rhomoma curcumae longae extracts (LR) on intestinal function of broilers. Three hundred broiler chickens were randomly assigned to the following 5 groups. The control group were fed the basal diet; the antibiotic group were fed the basal diet supplemented with spectinomycin hydrochloride (50 million units/ton) + lincomycin hydrochloride (25 g/ton); the LRH, LRM and LRL groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with a high dose (750 g/ton of feed), normal dose (500 g/ton of feed), or low dose (250 g/ton of feed) of LR, respectively. The changes of intestinal structure, intestinal digestive enzyme activities, antioxidant enzyme activities, inflammatory cytokines, and bacterial abundances in the colon and cecum contents were determined. The results indicated that compared with the control group and the antibiotic group, LR significantly increased the villus length/crypt depth (VCR) of the intestine, and significantly inhibited oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in the broiler intestine. In addition, LR regulated intestinal function by increasing the abundance of the intestinal microorganisms in broilers. In conclusion, LR improved antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and microorganisms, and inhibited inflammatory response. The effect of high and medium doses of LR was better than lower doses.

In vitro assessment of Ethanolic extracts from specific herbs on controlling aquatic leech (Tyrannobdella rex) and land leech (Philobdella sp.) infestation in Mithun (Bos frontalis).

Leech infestation poses a significant threat to Mithun (Bos frontalis) in the north-eastern region of India, leading to various health issues and potential fatality. To address this pressing concern, we conducted a comprehensive research study aimed at assessing the efficacy of herbal plant extracts against aquatic leeches, particularly Tyrannobdella rex, and land leeches of the Philobdella sp. Our investigation involved the evaluation of six distinct plant extracts, with a focus on their ability to combat leech infestation. The results of our study revealed that among the various plant extracts tested, only the ethanolic extracts of soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) exhibited notable effectiveness in combating aquatic leeches. At a concentration of 5%, these extracts displayed significant lethality, with soapnut extract achieving a remarkable kill time of 6.0 ± 0.40 min, while tobacco extract showed a kill time of 31.5 ± 1.32 min. In the case of land leeches, tobacco extract proved to be highly efficient, with an average kill time of 1.5 ± 0.28 min at a 5% concentration. Soapnut extract also exhibited effectiveness against land leeches, albeit with a slightly longer kill time of 14.25 ± 1.10 min at the same concentration. Additionally, Litsea grass oil (Litsea cubeba) demonstrated promising efficacy against both aquatic and land leeches, suggesting its potential as a versatile leech control agent. These compelling findings have significant implications for the management and control of leech infestation among Mithun populations. By identifying and harnessing the leech-repelling properties of soapnut, tobacco, and Litsea grass oil, this research offers practical and environmentally friendly solutions for mitigating the adverse effects of leech infestation. Furthermore, the insights gained from this study pave the way for the development of innovative strategies to safeguard the health and well-being of Mithun in the future.

Phytochemical profiling and antibacterial activities of Ziziphora tenuior root extracts: a molecular docking against VanA of vancomycin-resistant enterococci.

Medicinal plants, renowned for their antibacterial phytocompounds and secondary metabolites, hold significant promise in addressing antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. This study aimed to conduct phytochemical profiling of the methanolic and dichloromethane extracts of Ziziphora tenuior root using the GC-MS technique. These extracts' antioxidant potential was assessed via DPPH assay and their antibacterial activity was evaluated against S. aureus, E. coli, and VRE bacterial strains. Furthermore, the drug-ligand interactions between the extracts' biocompounds and d-alanyl-d-lactate ligase (VanA) protein of vancomycin-resistant enterococci strains (VRE) were analyzed using molecular docking. Based on the results, 74% of methanolic extract consisted of (3methyl, 24S)-stigmast-5-en-3-ol (which is a ß-sitosterol), followed by Tetrasiloxane, decamethyl (15.5%), and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-5-thioxo-1,2,4-triazolidin-3-one (10.5%). Also, the only predominant compound identified in the dichloromethane extract was Benzo[h]quinoline, 2,4-dimethyl-. Both extracts showed antioxidant activity, while the antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract (IC50 = 95.33 µg/ml) was significantly higher than that of the dichloromethane extract (IC50 = 934.23 µg/ml). Also, both extracts displayed substantial antibacterial efficacy against the tested pathogens, particularly against VRE. Moreover, the in silico analysis revealed that (3methyl, 24S)-stigmast-5-en-3-ol and Benzo[h]quinoline,2,4-dimethyl- exhibited notable interactions with VanA through docking energy values of - 9.0 and - 9.1 kcal/mol, respectively. Furthermore, these compounds formed 2 and 1 hydrogen bonds with VanA, respectively, highlighting their potential as effective interactants. These findings provide valuable visions into the therapeutic potentials of these plant-derived biocompounds in combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.

Key role of Phyllanthus emblica L. fruit extract promotes ZVI/H2O2 process: rich titratable acid, suitable chelating ability, and antioxidant capacity.

Phyllanthus emblica L. fruit extract (PFE) was introduced to improve ZVI/H2O2 technology, and the efficiency and mechanism of PFE promoting ZVI/H2O2 technology were explored. With the introduction of PFE, the Norfloxacin (NOR) removal rate and kobs of the process were improved by 41.17% and 5.08 times, respectively. In the ZVI/H2O2/PFE process, the degradation of NOR by the attack of ROS is the main pathway for decontamination and is dominated by the heterogeneous reaction on the catalyst surface. PFE contains 13.92 g/L titratable acid and has good complexing ability and antioxidant ability. The mechanism of PFE promoting ZVI/H2O2 technology was based on lowering the pH, complemented by chelation and antioxidant capacity. With the introduction of PFE, the utilization rate of the reagent was significantly increased (7.56 times for ZVI and 3.21 times for H2O2), the applicable pH range was widened (6-9) and the iron sludge was reduced (32.80%). Meanwhile, the concept of UPR is proposed for the first time. The result is the key role to the selection of green promoters in the ZVI/H2O2 process depends on the abundance of titratable acid, followed by a certain chelating ability and antioxidant capacity.

Herbal Amara extract induces gastric fundus relaxation via inhibition of the M2 muscarinic receptor.

BACKGROUND: Impaired gastric accommodation is one of the most frequent symptoms of functional dyspepsia. The safety and efficacy of conventional treatments remain to be proven and alternative herbal therapies have been proposed to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. This preclinical study examined the role of herbal Amara extract (containing Artemisia absinthium, Centaurium erythraea, Cichorium intybus, Gentiana lutea, Juniperus communis, Achillea millefolium, Peucedanum ostruthium, Salvia officinalis, and Taraxacum extracts) on gastric (fundus) accommodation and the possible implication of muscarinic receptors in its regulation. METHODS: The effect of Amara extract on fundus motility was investigated in organ baths of smooth muscle strips isolated from the fundus of guinea pigs, and the role of the muscarinic receptor pathway was evaluated using functional and radioligand binding assays in cell lines expressing the M2 or M3 muscarinic receptor. KEY RESULTS: Amara extract inhibited carbachol-induced contraction of guinea pig smooth muscle strips in a dose-dependent manner. This relaxant effect was not affected by the M3 antagonist J-104129. Amara extract also inhibited M2, but not M3, receptor activity in CHO-K1 cells (IC50 219 µg mL-1), and specifically bound the M2 receptor (IC50 294 µg mL-1). Of the nine herbal components of Amara extract, Juniperus communis, P. ostruthium, and Salvia officinalis inhibited M2 receptor activity (IC50 32.0, 20.8, and 20.1 µg mL-1, respectively), and P. ostruthium was sufficient to reverse carbachol-induced ex vivo contraction of guinea pig fundic smooth muscles. CONCLUSION AND INFERENCES: Amara extract relaxes gastric smooth muscles by inhibiting the M2 muscarinic receptor. This study suggests the potential benefit of Amara extract for patients with impaired gastric accommodation.

Plant-based synthesis, characterization approaches, applications and toxicity of silver nanoparticles: A comprehensive review.

The development of an environmentally benign method for the synthesis of nanoparticles has been facilitated by green chemistry. "Green synthesis" uses a range of biological elements like microbes, plants, and other biodegradable materials to produce NPs. Active biomolecules that are secreted by natural strains and present in the plant extracts serve as both reducing and capping/stabilizing agents. Microorganisms' intracellular enzymes can reduce metal ions, which explains how NPs might potentially nucleate. Plant-based synthesis of nanomaterials is particularly promising owing to abundant resources, simplicity of synthesis, and low cost. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are attracting great attention in the research community due to their wide variety of applications in chemistry, food technology, microbiology, and biomedicine. Recent years have seen a large amount of research on the bio-genic synthesis of AgNPs employing biomaterials like plant extract and bacteria as reducing agents. Herein we discuss a thorough overview of the plant-based synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), characterization approaches, applications, and toxicity. The review covers the green chemistry and nanotechnology elements of producing AgNPs, including a thorough discussion of the plant extract mediated synthesis, detailed formation mechanism, and a well-balanced emphasis on hazards and advantages. Based on current developments, the optimisation strategies, applications, and interdisciplinary characteristics are also covered in detail.

Turning Waste into Treasure: Invasive Plant Ambrosia trifida L Leaves as a High-Efficiency Inhibitor for Steel in Simulated Pickling Solutions.

High toxicity is the main reason for the limited application of traditional corrosion inhibitors. Herein, it is critical to find a green, efficient, and long-term stable alternative substitute for the hazardous and conventional corrosion inhibitor. Ambrosia trifida L is widely distributed in fields and riverside wetlands as an invasive plant in China. According to the concept of turning waste into treasure, the extract of Ambrosia trifida L leaves (ATL) has the potential to address this issue due to its natural origin and abundant presence of heterocyclic organics. Therefore, ATL, as a green corrosion inhibitor, is prepared for the first time via a simple water-based extraction method. FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and UV-Vis (UV-visible) indicate that ATL extract contains abundant heterocyclic organics with conjugated structures, which exhibit the potential to become a high-efficiency inhibitor. Notably, the active sites of ATL molecules and their interaction with Q235 steel at the molecular/atomic level are revealed via theoretical calculations. The highest Ebinding value observed for the major components in the ATL extract is 259.66 kcal/mol, implying a significant adsorption capacity. The electrochemical results verify that microdose ATL extract can prominently inhibit steel corrosion, and the highest inhibition efficiency (η) is 97.5% (1000 mg/L). Following immersion for 24 h, the η value is enhanced to 99.0%, indicating a reliable and long-term ATL extract protection film is formed on the steel surface in harsh acidic solutions. The results of the weight loss, SEM (scanning electron microscope), and LSCM (laser scanning confocal microscopy) are consistent with the above conclusions. Finally, this study anticipates providing theoretical support for developing novel green plant extract inhibitors and aiding in their application in industrial pickling environments.

German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) Flower Extract, Its Amino Acid Preparations and 3D-Printed Dosage Forms: Phytochemical, Pharmacological, Technological, and Molecular Docking Study.

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is an essential oil- containing medicinal plant used worldwide. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge of the phytochemical composition and the analgesic and soporific activity of Matricaria chamomilla L. (German chamomile) flower extract and its amino acid preparations, to predict the mechanisms of their effects by molecular docking and to develop aqueous printing gels and novel 3D-printed oral dosage forms for the flower extracts. In total, 22 polyphenolic compounds and 14 amino acids were identified and quantified in the M. chamomilla extracts. In vivo animal studies with rodents showed that the oral administration of such extracts revealed the potential for treating of sleep disorders and diseases accompanied by pain. Amino acids were found to potentiate these effects. Glycine enhanced the analgesic activity the most, while lysine and ß-alanine improved the soporific activity. The molecular docking analysis revealed a high probability of γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism and 5-lipoxygenase (LOX-5) inhibition by the extracts. A polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based gel composition with the M. chamomilla extracts was proposed for preparing a novel 3D-printed dosage form for oral administration. These 3D-printed extract preparations can be used, for example, in dietary supplement applications.

Study of Antidiabetic Properties of Berberis asiatica and Withania somnifera in Streptozotocin-Nicotinamide-Induced Type II Diabetes Mellitus in Wistar Rats.

Background and aim Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Although current antidiabetic drugs are highly effective, they are associated with various adverse drug reactions, including life-threatening hypoglycemia, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal intolerance, in addition to being costly. This animal-based experimental study aims to develop a herbal alternative or adjuvant to current antidiabetic drugs using Berberis asiatica (BA) and Withania somnifera (WS), which could potentially have fewer adverse drug reactions and reduce the required dose of existing antidiabetic medications. Material and methods Seventy-eight adult albino Wistar rats weighing between 150 and 250 g were used for the study. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced by intraperitoneal (i.p) injections of streptozotocin (STZ) (65 mg/kg) 15 minutes after nicotinamide (NIC) (110 mg/kg) administration. As the diabetes was confirmed (blood glucose level > 250 mg/dL), rats were divided into 13 different groups mentioned. The standard antidiabetic drugs (metformin [MET] and glimepiride [GLI]) and polyherbal combinations (PHC) (BA + WS) were administered orally, individually (WS and BA), and in combination (BA + WS). Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis using the tail vein prick method.  The study is based on a total of 13 groups, six rats in each group. Groups 1 and 2 (normal control [NC] and diabetic control [DC]) received distilled water at a dose of 10 mL/kg orally for 28 days. Groups 3-5 (BA 250, 500, and 1000) received dried ethanolic root extract of BA at a dose of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg orally, respectively, for 28 days. Groups 6-8 (WS 250, 500, and 1000) received dried ethanolic root extract of WS at a dose of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg orally, respectively, for 28 days. Groups 9-11 (PHC 250, 500, and 1000) received dried ethanolic root extract of BA + WS at a dose of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg orally, respectively, for 28 days. Groups 12 and 13 (MET and GLI) received standard drugs MET and GLI at a dose of 250 and 10 mg/kg orally, respectively, for 28 days. Results The dried ethanolic root extract of medicinal herbal plants BA and WS and their combination exhibited significant antidiabetic efficacy. PHC has been shown to have a superior antidiabetic effect than individuals. PHC 500 and 1000 showed blood glucose levels similar to those of the GLI group (P < 0.05). Additionally, PHC 1000 showed blood glucose levels similar to those of the MET group (P < 0.05). Conclusion Our results indicate that both BA and WS possess hypoglycemic activity, and their combination also has a synergistic antidiabetic effect compared to the individual extract. These findings are promising in developing new safe and cost-effective herbal combinations as alternatives or additives to currently used synthetic antidiabetic drugs.

Antimicrobial Activity against Cronobacter of Plant Extracts and Essential Oils in a Matrix of Bacterial Cellulose.

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a biodegradable polymer resembling paper after being dried. It finds a growing number of applications in many branches of industry and in medicine. In the present study, BC was produced after Gluconacetobacter hansenii ATCC 23769 strain culture and used as a matrix for plant extracts (tulsi, brahmi, lemon, blackberry, nettle root, and nettle leave) and essential oils (cinnamon, sage, clove, mint, thyme, lemongrass, rosemary, lemon, anise, tea tree, lime, grapefruit, and tangerine), and the antimicrobial properties of these biomaterials was determined. The growth-inhibiting effects of plant extracts and essential oils combined with BC were analyzed against five Cronobacter species isolated from food matrix and two reference strains from the ATCC (513229 and 29544). Additional analyses were conducted for BC water activity and for its capability to absorb biologically active plant compounds. The cellulose matrix with a 50% extract from brahmi was found to effectively inhibit the growth of the selected Cronobacter strains. The other plant water extracts did not show any antimicrobial activity against the tested strains. It was demonstrated that BC soaked with thyme essential oil was characterized with the strongest antimicrobial activity in comparison to the other tested EOs. These study results indicate the feasibility of deploying BC impregnated with natural plant components as an active and environmentally-friendly packaging material.

Molecular Modeling of Brassicaceae Derivatives for Inhibiting Lipoxygenases: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy.

INTRODUCTION: Inflammation plays a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms, but uncontrolled inflammation can lead to chronic and pathological conditions. This study aimed to identify natural compounds as potential replacements for the synthetic drug Zileuton, known for its side effects. METHOD: Utilizing the MOE and Molegro modeling methods, several molecules were evaluated, and three compounds, namely 1-Isothiocyanatopent-4-en-2-ol, 7-Isothiocyanatohept-1-ene, and 5- (Isothiocyanatomethyl)-1,2,3-trimethoxybenzene, exhibited superior inhibitory properties. These compounds consistently demonstrated low energy values, indicating high inhibition potency. Notably, 5-(Isothiocyanatomethyl)-1,2,3-trimethoxybenzene emerged as the most promising candidate among all tested compounds. RESULTS: These findings provide valuable insights for the development of alternative anti-inflammatory agents. Further research is required to assess the efficacy and safety profiles of these compounds in clinical settings. CONCLUSION: This study represents a significant advancement in the search for innovative therapeutic strategies to manage inflammation-related disorders.

Evaluation of inhibitory activity of essential oils and natural extracts on foodborne viruses.

AIMS: Enteric viruses are recognized as a major concern in health care and in the food sector in Canada. Novel clean-label strategies for controlling enteric viruses are sought in the food industry. In this study, we examined the antiviral potential of plant extracts and essential oils on murine norovirus 1 (MNV-1), hepatitis A virus (HAV), and herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). METHODS AND RESULTS: Inactivation of the viruses by grape seed, blueberry, green tea, and cranberry extracts and by rosemary and thyme essential oils was measured using plaque formation assay. Concentrations ranging from 50 to 200 000 ppm with a contact time of 90 min were tested. Grape seed extract at 10 000 ppm was the most effective (P < 0.05) at reducing MNV-1 and HAV infectious titers, respectively, by 2.85 ± 0.44 log10 and 1.94 ± 0.17 log10. HSV-1 titer was reduced by 3.81 ± 0.40 log10 at 1000 ppm grape seed extract. CONCLUSIONS: Among the plant products tested, grape seed extract was found the most effective at reducing the infectious titers of MNV-1, HAV, and HSV.

Phytoconstituents with cardioprotective properties: A pharmacological overview on their efficacy against myocardial infarction.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is considered one of the most common cardiac diseases and major cause of death worldwide. The prevalence of MI and MI-associated mortality have been increasing in recent years due to poor lifestyle habits viz. residency, obesity, stress, and pollution. Synthetic drugs for the treatment of MI provide good chance of survival; however, the demand to search more safe, effective, and natural drugs is increasing. Plants provide fruitful sources for powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents for prevention and/or treatment of MI. However, many plant extracts lack exact information about their possible dosage, toxicity and drug interactions which may hinder their usefulness as potential treatment options. Phytoconstituents play cardioprotective role by either acting as a prophylactic or adjuvant therapy to the concurrently used synthetic drugs to decrease the dosage or relief the side effects of such drugs. This review highlights the role of different herbal formulations, examples of plant extracts and types of several isolated phytoconstituents (phenolic acids, flavonoids, stilbenes, alkaloids, phenyl propanoids) in the prevention of MI with reported activities. Moreover, their possible mechanisms of action are also discussed to guide future research for the development of safer substitutes to manage MI.