Leaf functional traits and resource use strategies facilitate the spread of invasive plant Parthenium hysterophorus across an elevational gradient in western Himalayas.

Parthenium hysterophorus L. (Asteraceae) is a highly prevalent invasive species in subtropical regions across the world. It has recently been seen to shift from low (subtropical) to high (sub-temperate) elevations. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of research investigating the adaptive responses and the significance of leaf functional traits in promoting the expansion to high elevations. The current study investigated the variations and trade-offs among 14 leaf traits (structural, photosynthetic, and nutrient content) of P. hysterophorus across different elevations in the western Himalayas, India. Plots measuring 20 × 40 m were established at different elevations (700 m, 1100 m, 1400 m, and 1800 m) to collect leaf trait data for P. hysterophorus. Along the elevational gradient, significant variations were noticed in leaf morphological parameters, leaf nutrient content, and leaf photosynthetic parameters. Significant increases were observed in the specific leaf area, leaf thickness, and chlorophyll a, total chlorophyll and carotenoid content, as well as leaf nitrogen and phosphorus content with elevation. On the other hand, there were reductions in the amount of chlorophyll b, photosynthetic efficiency, leaf dry matter content, leaf mass per area, and leaf water content. The trait-trait relationships between leaf water content and dry weight and between leaf area and dry weight were stronger at higher elevations. The results show that leaf trait variability and trait-trait correlations are very important for sustaining plant fitness and growth rates in low-temperature, high-irradiance, resource-limited environments at relatively high elevations. To summarise, the findings suggest that P. hysterophorus can expand its range to higher elevations by broadening its functional niche through changes in leaf traits and resource utilisation strategies.

Impact of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on floristic diversity in Dhauladhar foothills of Himachal Pradesh.

Parthenium hysterophorus L. has become a weed of global concern owing to its fast expansion and invasive character. In order to study the status of this noxious weed and its impact on floristic diversity in Dhauladhar foothills, the study was conducted during the year 2021-2022 in culturable wastelands of Dhauladhar ranges in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The impact of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on associated species at different altitudes and aspects was observed. Our observations depicted that Parthenium hysterophorus L. has been growing more vigorously in the northern aspect than the southern aspect with the density of 37.78 m-2 and 21.62 m-2, respectively. The highest density of this noxious weed was recorded in the altitudinal range of 600-1200 m (34.32 m-2) while it was not observed beyond 1805 m above sea level. The invasion of Parthenium hysterophorus L. significantly affected the plant density of other species. The descending order of the species as per dominance was observed as Cynodon dactylon, Trifolium repens, Oxalis latifolia, Parthenium hysterophorus L., and Ageratum houstonianum. The average number of species and species density were observed more in non-invaded sites (9.35 and 27.67 m-2) than in invaded sites (7.10 and 20.60 m-2). Species abundance and plant cover were observed more in non-invaded sites (28.73 and 657.90 m2 ha-1) than in invaded sites (22.70 and 322.30 m2 ha-1). Species diversity, richness, and evenness were reported to decline in invaded sites (1.56, 0.95, and 0.81, respectively) with respect to the non-invaded sites (1.94, 1.16, and 0.88, respectively). The study highlights the significant concerns associated with the invasive weed within the plant communities. Understanding its invasive status holds considerable implications for local afforestation initiatives, forest management strategies, and conservation policies. Furthermore, this investigation lays a foundational groundwork for implementing effective measures to get rid of this alien weed.

Parthenium hysterophorus derived nanostructures as an efficient carbocatalyst for the electrochemical sensing of mercury(II) ions.

The sustainable utilization of resources motivate us to create eco-friendly processes for synthesizing novel carbon nanomaterials from waste biomass by minimizing chemical usage and reducing energy demands. By keeping sustainability as a prime focus in the present work, we have made the effective management of Parthenium weeds by converting them into carbon-based nanomaterial through hydrothermal treatment followed by heating in a tube furnace under the nitrogen atmosphere. The XPS studies confirm the natural presence of nitrogen and oxygen-containing functional groups in the biomass-derived carbon. The nanostructure has adopted a layered two-dimensional structure, clearly indicated through HRTEM images. Further, the nanomaterials are analyzed for their ability towards the electrochemical detection of mercury, with a detection limit of 6.17 µM, while the limit of quantification and sensitivity was found to be 18.7 µM and 0.4723 µM µA-1 cm-2, respectively. The obtained two-dimensional architecture has increased the surface area, while the nitrogen and oxygen functional groups act as an active site for sensing the mercury ions. This study will open a new door for developing metal-free catalysts through a green and sustainable approach by recycling and utilization of waste biomass.

Hysterolides A-I, dimeric or monomeric sesquiterpene lactones from Parthenium hysterophorus L.

Nine undescribed sesquiterpene lactones, including two pseudoguaianolide dimers (1 and 2), a pseudoguaiac dilactone (3), and six pseudoguaianolides (4-9), along with 13 known analogues (10-22) were isolated from Parthenium hysterophorus. Among them, hysterolide A (1) possesses an unusual carbon skeleton with a unique cyclobutane ring connecting two pseudoguaianolides. Hysterolide C (3) is a sesquiterpene dilactone incorporating a bicyclo[5.1.0]octane core. Spectroscopic analyses, 13C NMR and ECD calculations, and X-ray diffraction elucidated their structures and absolute configurations. Moreover, all the isolates were assayed for their anti-inflammatory activities by inhibiting LPS-induced nitric oxide production in BV-2 microglia cells, wherein, nine compounds displayed significant inhibitory activities with IC50 of 0.52-6.32 µM. Furthermore, the preliminary structure-activity relationship was also established.

The complete plastome sequences of invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus: genome organization, evolutionary significance, structural features, and comparative analysis.

Parthenium hysterophorus, a globally widespread weed, poses a significant threat to agricultural ecosystems due to its invasive nature. We investigated the chloroplast genome of P. hysterophorus in this study. Our analysis revealed that the chloroplast genome of P. hysterophorus spans a length of 151,881 base pairs (bp). It exhibits typical quadripartite structure commonly found in chloroplast genomes, including inverted repeat regions (IR) of 25,085 bp, a small single copy (SSC) region of 18,052 bp, and a large single copy (LSC) region of 83,588 bp. A total of 129 unique genes were identified in P. hysterophorus chloroplast genomes, including 85 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNAs, and eight rRNAs genes. Comparative analysis of the P. hysterophorus plastome with those of related species from the tribe Heliantheae revealed both conserved structures and intriguing variations. While many structural elements were shared among the species, we identified a rearrangement in the large single-copy region of P. hysterophorus. Moreover, our study highlighted notable gene divergence in several specific genes, namely matK, ndhF, clpP, rps16, ndhA, rps3, and ndhD. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 72 shared genes placed P. hysterophorus in a distinct clade alongside another species, P. argentatum. Additionally, the estimated divergence time between the Parthenium genus and Helianthus (sunflowers) was approximately 15.1 million years ago (Mya). These findings provide valuable insights into the evolutionary history and genetic relationships of P. hysterophorus, shedding light on its divergence and adaptation over time.

Case Report: Mixed Airborne Contact Dermatitis-Chronic Actinic Dermatitis Pattern of Parthenium Dermatitis with Response to Tofacitinib Therapy.

Parthenium hysterophorus is the commonest cause of plant dermatitis in India. It classically causes airborne contact dermatitis (ABCD), characterized by pruritic, eczematous, and lichenified lesions involving predominantly the face and flexural areas. Over time, however, a transition to chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) pattern, with prominent involvement of sun-exposed sites, may occur. Management involves strict protective measures and topical and oral corticosteroids or immunomodulatory agents but often leads to only limited success. We report a patient with a chronic and extensive mixed ABCD-CAD pattern of parthenium dermatitis recalcitrant to conventional treatment, with rapid resolution after initiation of treatment with tofacitinib.

Potentials of invasive Bidens pilosa, Conyza bonariensis and Parthenium hysterophorus species based on germination patterns and growth traits.

Invasive alien species drive extensive ecological changes and cause unexpected risks worldwide. Perceptive germination requirements and the growth function of invasive species are crucial for understanding their invasion and subsequent dissemination in various environmental conditions. Therefore, the germination response of invasive Conyza bonariensis, Parthenium hysterophorus, and Bidens pilosa of Asteraceae family were examined under alternating temperature regimes and some environmental factors. The prevailing germination ability occurs highest at moderate-temperature regimes at 20/30°C attained by 94.83% (C. bonariensis) and at 20/25 SS by 96.28% (P. hysterophorus) and high-temperature regimes at 25/30°C reached 92.94% (B. pilosa) respectively. The half germination percentage (G50) was -0.406 MPa and 2878.35 ppm (B. pilosa), -0.579 MPa and 2490.9 ppm (C. bonariensis), and-0.32 MPa and 2490.8 ppm (P. hysterophorus) affected by osmotic pressure and salt stress (NaCl) respectively. The highest growth plasticity characteristics were identified in total dry mass attained at 0.968 (C. bonariensis), 0.985 (B. pilosa) and 0.957 (P. hysterophorus) respectively. The relative growth, net assimilation and plasticity index appeared higher in both B. pilosa, and C. bonariensis than P. hysterophorus in the invaded area. In conclusion, germination and growth traits are precisely functional factors that correlate to invasion success under stressed conditions, and zones, and also lead to successful control plans for invasive species and ecological protection.

Antioxidant, insecticidal activity and chemical profiling of flower's extract of Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.).

Parthenium hysterophorus L., an invasive alien species and notorious weed, offers various benefits to the medical and agrochemical industries. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and insecticidal activities of P. hysterophorus flower extract and conduct chemical profiling to identify the phytoconstituents responsible for these biological effects. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, while gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) analysis was employed for chemical configuration evaluation. Our findings demonstrate that the dichloromethane (DCM) extract of P. hysterophorus exhibits potent radical scavenging activity (95.03%). Additionally, phytochemical analysis revealed significant amounts of phenols and flavonoids in the distilled water and ethyl acetate extracts (103.30 GAEg-1 and 138.67 QEg-1, respectively). In terms of insecticidal activity, the flower extract displayed maximum mortality rates of 63.33% and 46.67% after 96 hours of exposure at concentrations of 1000 µgmL-1 and 800 µgmL-1, respectively, with similar trends observed at 72 hours. Furthermore, the P. hysterophorus extracts exhibited LC50 values of 1446 µgmL-1 at 72 hours and 750 µgmL-1 at 96 hours. Imidacloprid, the positive control, demonstrated higher mortality rates at 96 hours (97.67%) and 72 hours (91.82%). Moreover, the antioxidant activity of P. hysterophorus extracts exhibited a strong correlation with phenols, flavonoids, and extract yield. GCMS analysis identified 13 chemical compounds, accounting for 99.99% of the whole extract. Ethanol extraction yielded the highest percentage of extract (4.34%), followed by distilled water (3.22%), ethyl acetate (3.17%), and dichloromethane (2.39%). The flower extract of P. hysterophorus demonstrated significant antioxidant and insecticidal activities, accompanied by the presence of valuable chemical compounds responsible for these biological effects, making it a promising alternative to synthetic agents. These findings provide a novel and fundamental basis for further exploration in purifying the chemical compounds for their biological activities.

ß-Sitosterol, a phytocompound from Parthenium hysterophorus, reveals anti-diabetic properties through α-Amylase inhibition: an in-silico and in-vitro analysis.

The study aims to identify and validate a potential α-Amylase inhibitor from the leaf extract of the Parthenium hysterophorus. Molecular docking and dynamics analyses were performed to test the anti-diabetic efficacy of the compound by focusing on α-Amylase inhibition. The molecular docking study using AutoDock Vina (PyRx) and SeeSAR tools identified ß-Sitosterol as an effective α-Amylase inhibitory compound. Among the analysed fifteen phytochemicals, ß-Sitosterol demonstrated the most appreciable binding energy (-9.0 Kcal/mol) and is comparatively higher than the binding energy of the standard α-Amylase inhibitor, the Acarbose (-7.6 Kcal/mol). The significance of the interaction between ß-Sitosterol and α-Amylase was further investigated using Molecular Dynamics Simulation (MDS) for 100 ns via GROMACS. The data reveals that the compound could exhibit the highest stability with α-Amylase regarding RMSD, RMSF, SASA and Potential Energy analysis. The key residue of α-Amylase (Asp -197) shows a significantly low fluctuation of 0.7 Å while interacting with ß-Sitosterol. The data obtained from MDS results strongly suggested the potential inhibitory impact of ß-Sitosterol on α-Amylase. In addition, the proposed phytochemical was purified from the leaf extracts of P.hysterophorus using the silica gel column chromatography and identified by GC-MS analysis. The purified ß-Sitosterol demonstrated a significant 42.30% in-vitro α-Amylase enzyme inhibition property under 400 µg/ml concentration and thus supported the in-silico predictions. Further in-vivo investigations are necessary to analyse the efficiency of ß-Sitosterol on α-Amylase inhibition to help the anti-diabetic potential of the phytocompound.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Invasive success of star weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) through alteration in structural and functional peculiarities.

Parthenium weed poses significant threats to cropping systems, socioeconomic structures, and native ecosystems. The pronounced impact is primarily attributed to its rapid and efficient invasion mechanism. Despite that the detrimental effects of Parthenium weed are widely acknowledged, an in-depth scientific comprehension of its invasion mechanism, particularly regarding modifications in structural and functional attributes under natural conditions, is still lacking. To bridge this knowledge gap and formulate effective strategies for alleviating the adverse consequences of Parthenium weed, a study was conducted in the more cultivated and densely populated areas of Punjab, Pakistan. This study was focused on fifteen distinct populations of the star weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) to investigate the factors contributing to its widespread distribution in diverse environmental conditions. The results revealed significant variations in growth performance, physiological traits, and internal structures among populations from different habitats. The populations from wastelands exhibited superior growth, with higher accumulation of soluble proteins (TSP) and chlorophyll content (Chl a&b, TChl, Car, and Chl a/b). These populations displayed increased root and stem area, storage parenchyma, vascular bundle area, metaxylem area, and phloem area. Significant leaf modifications included thicker leaves, sclarification around vascular bundles, and widened metaxylem vessels. Roadside populations possessed larger leaf area, enhanced antioxidant activity, increased thickness of leaves in terms of midrib and lamina, and a higher cortical proportion. Populations found in agricultural fields depicted enhanced shoot biomass production, higher levels of chlorophyll b, and an increased total chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio. Additionally, they exhibited increased phloem area in their roots, stems, and leaves, with a thick epidermis only in the stem. All these outcomes of the study revealed explicit structural and functional modifications among P. hysterophorus populations collected from different habitats. These variations were attributed to the environmental variability and could contribute to the widespread distribution of this species. Notably, these findings hold practical significance for agronomists and ecologists, offering valuable insights for the future management of Parthenium weed in novel environments and contributing to the stability of ecosystems.

Actividad antiplasmodial de lactonas de Parthenium hysterophorus L. y alcaloides de Argemone mexicana L. en Cuba / Anti-plasmodial activity of Parthenium hysterophorus L. lactones and Argemone mexicana L. alkaloids in Cuba

Introducción: Argemone mexicana L. y Parthenium hysterophorus L. son plantas con antecedentes de uso contra la malaria en Cuba. Varios estudios avalan la actividad antiplasmodial de estas especies en otros países. Alcaloides y lactonas son los principios activos de estas plantas.Objetivo: evaluar la actividad antiplasmodial de extractos enriquecidos en alcaloides y en lactonas de A. mexicana y de P. hysterophorus colectadas en Cuba.Métodos: se prepararon extractos crudos de la parte aérea de A. mexicana y de la raíz de P. hysterophorus; un extracto enriquecido en alcaloides de A. mexicana; así como enriquecidos en lactonas de raíz y parte aérea de P. hysterophorus. La actividad de los extractos se evaluó in vitro frente a P. berghei y se determinó su citotoxicidad frente a fibroblastos humanos MRC-5. El extracto más selectivo se evaluó in vivo en un modelo de malaria de roedores.Resultados: solamente las fracciones sin alcaloides y sin lactonas no presentaro acción inhibitoria del desarrollo de la esquizogonia de P. berghei a 100 mg/mL. El extracto enriquecido en lactonas de la parte aérea de P. hysterophorus fue el más citotóxico y menos selectivo (IS< 1). El resto de los extractos activos presentaron índices de selectividad similares (3,0; 3,7 y 3,1). La administración intraperitoneal del extracto crudo de A. mexicana causó la reducción significativa de la parasitemia en los ratones tratados con 500 mg/kg, mientras el enriquecido en alcaloides provocó toxicidad a 200 mg/kg y no produjo reducción significativa de la parasitemia a 100 mg/kg y 150 mg/kg...

Introduction: Argemone mexicana L. and Parthenium hysterophorus L. are plants with history of antimalarial use in Cuba. Several studies have validated the antiplasmodial activity of these species in other countries. Alkaloids and lactones are the active principles of these plants.Objective: to evaluate antiplasmodial activity of alkaloid-rich and lactone-rich extracts from A. mexicana and P. hysterophorus harvested in Cuba.Methods: Crude extracts from the aerial parts of A. mexicana and from the root of P. Hysterophorus; alkaloid- rich extract from A. mexicana and two lactone-rich extracts from root and aerial part of P. Hysterophorus were prepared. The activity of these extracts was evaluated in vitro against P. berghei and citotoxicity against human fibroblast MRC-5 was determined. The most selective extract was evaluated in vivo in a rodent model.Results: Only those fractions without alkaloids and without lactones exhibited non inhibitory action on P. berghei squizogony development at 100 g/mL. The lactone- rich extract of P. hysterophorus aerial part was the most cytotoxic but the least selective (IS< 1). The rest of active extracts exhibited similar selectivity indexes (3.0; 3.7 y 3.1). Intraperitoneal administration of A. mexicana crude extract caused significant reduction of parasitemia in the mice treated with 500 mg/kg, whereas, alkaloid- rich extract caused toxicity at 200 mg/kg and caused a non-significant reduction of parasitemia at 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg. The treatment with crude extract of P. hysterophorus root was very toxic at a dose of 500 mg/kg, whereas the lactone-rich extract was no toxic and brought a significant reduction of parasitemia in mice treated with 1 000 mg/kg.Conclusions: The results show the potential of lactone-rich extract from P. hysterophorus root as a basis for a future anti-malarial phytomedicine(AU)

Evaluación fotohemolítica in vitro de Parthenium Hysterophorus L / In vitro photohemolytic evaluation of parthenium hysterophorus l

La prueba de fotohemólisis es empleada para determinar el potencial fototóxico de productos que dañan la membrana del eritrocito bajo la acción de la luz ultravioleta-visible. En el presente trabajo, se evaluó el efecto fotoirritante de Parthenium hysterophorus L. como prueba de estimación de riesgo, según técnicas in vitro de toxicología. También se determinaron los metabolitos secundarios del extracto vegetal, responsables de los efectos observados. Los resultados mostraron hemólisis en concentraciones muy bajas, y la concentración hemolítica 50 para las muestras irradiadas y las no irradiadas fue de 0,02 mg/ml y 0,05 mg/ml, respectivamente. Por otro lado, los valores de densidad óptica y el factor hemolítico obtenidos fueron inferiores al rango de clasificación en cada caso. Mediante el tamizaje fitoquímico, se comprobó la presencia de determinados metabolitos y en diferentes proporciones que pudieran ser los responsables, en parte, del efecto fotohemolítico obtenido. Se concluyó que el extracto blando de la especie Parthenium hysterophorus L. no es fotoirritante(AU)

Especificidad de la cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia para evaluar estabilidad química basada en partenina del follaje seco pulverizado de Parthenium hysterophorus L (escoba amarga) / Specificity of HPLC to assess the chemical stability based on partenine from Parthenium hysterophorus L powdered dry foliage (escoba amarga)

INTRODUCCIÓN: se requiere una técnica de análisis específica que permita dar seguimiento al estudio de la estabilidad intrínseca del follaje seco pulverizado de Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga), para la obtención de una forma farmacéutica de utilidad antiparasitaria con los requisitos de calidad, seguridad y eficacia exigidos. OBJETIVO: demostrar la especificidad de la técnica analítica de cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia para la cuantificación de partenina en el polvo de P. hysterophorus para su aplicación en estudios de estabilidad. MÉTODOS: se aplicó cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia a muestras degradadas de P. hysterophorus, bajo condiciones degradativas en medio ácido, básico y oxidativo. Se evaluó la especificidad de la técnica de análisis para detectar el componente de interés sin interferencias de sus productos de degradación y su posible utilidad en estudios de estabilidad del polvo de la planta. RESULTADOS: la cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia para cuantificar partenina en el polvo de P. hysterophorus resultó específica en las condiciones de trabajo establecidas y puede emplearse en estudios de estabilidad del sólido en el polvo de la planta. CONCLUSIONES: la técnica de cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia propuesta es específica y se recomienda su utilización en los estudios de estabilidad del sólido en polvo de la planta(AU)

INTRODUCTION: it is required a specific analysis technique allowing the follow-up to stability study intrinsic of Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga) powdered dry foliage to achieve in a pharmaceutical way a antiparasitic usefulness with the quality, safety and effectiveness demanded requirements. OBJECTIVE: to demonstrate the specificity of analytical technique of high-performance liquid chromatography for quantization of partenine in the powder of P. hysterophorus for its application in stability studies. METHODS: high performance liquid chromatography was applied to P. hysterophorus degraded samples under degradation conditions in an oxidative, basic and acid medium.The analysis technique specificity was assessed to detect the interest component without interferences of its degradation products and its possible usefulness in studies on solid stability in the plant powder. RESULTS: high-performance liquid chromatography to quantify the presence of partenine in the P. hysterophorus powder was specific in established work conditions and may be used in solid stability studies of plant powder. CONCLUSIONS: the high-performance proposed is specific and it is recommended in solid stability studies of solids in plant powder(AU)

Especificidad de la cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia para evaluar estabilidad química basada en partenina del follaje seco pulverizado de Parthenium hysterophorus L (escoba amarga) / Specificity of HPLC to assess the chemical stability based on partenine from Parthenium hysterophorus L powdered dry foliage (escoba amarga)

INTRODUCCIÓN: se requiere una técnica de análisis específica que permita dar seguimiento al estudio de la estabilidad intrínseca del follaje seco pulverizado de Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga), para la obtención de una forma farmacéutica de utilidad antiparasitaria con los requisitos de calidad, seguridad y eficacia exigidos. OBJETIVO: demostrar la especificidad de la técnica analítica de cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia para la cuantificación de partenina en el polvo de P. hysterophorus para su aplicación en estudios de estabilidad. MÉTODOS: se aplicó cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia a muestras degradadas de P. hysterophorus, bajo condiciones degradativas en medio ácido, básico y oxidativo. Se evaluó la especificidad de la técnica de análisis para detectar el componente de interés sin interferencias de sus productos de degradación y su posible utilidad en estudios de estabilidad del polvo de la planta. RESULTADOS: la cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia para cuantificar partenina en el polvo de P. hysterophorus resultó específica en las condiciones de trabajo establecidas y puede emplearse en estudios de estabilidad del sólido en el polvo de la planta. CONCLUSIONES: la técnica de cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia propuesta es específica y se recomienda su utilización en los estudios de estabilidad del sólido en polvo de la planta.

INTRODUCTION: it is required a specific analysis technique allowing the follow-up to stability study intrinsic of Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga) powdered dry foliage to achieve in a pharmaceutical way a antiparasitic usefulness with the quality, safety and effectiveness demanded requirements. OBJECTIVE: to demonstrate the specificity of analytical technique of high-performance liquid chromatography for quantization of partenine in the powder of P. hysterophorus for its application in stability studies. METHODS: high performance liquid chromatography was applied to P. hysterophorus degraded samples under degradation conditions in an oxidative, basic and acid medium.The analysis technique specificity was assessed to detect the interest component without interferences of its degradation products and its possible usefulness in studies on solid stability in the plant powder. RESULTS: high-performance liquid chromatography to quantify the presence of partenine in the P. hysterophorus powder was specific in established work conditions and may be used in solid stability studies of plant powder. CONCLUSIONS: the high-performance proposed is specific and it is recommended in solid stability studies of solids in plant powder.

Estabilidad del polvo de Parthenium hysterophorus L (escoba amarga) basado en el contenido de partenina mediante cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia / Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga) powder stability on the basis of parthenin contents by using high-performance liquid chromatography

INTRODUCCIÓN: Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga) es una planta de reconocida acción antiparasitaria, carece de investigaciones analíticas y tecnológicas que permitan dar seguimiento a la estabilidad intrínseca del sólido en polvo de la planta, para la futura obtención de una forma farmacéutica de utilidad antiparasitaria científicamente fundamentada. OBJETIVO: establecer la estabilidad integral del polvo obtenido de follaje de P. hysterophorus en condiciones reales de almacenamiento basado en partenina. MÉTODOS: se desarrolló un estudio de la estabilidad intrínseca del sólido en polvo de P. hysterophorus frente a factores externos (humedad, temperatura y luz). RESULTADOS: la cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia (CLAE) para la cuantificación de partenina en el sólido en polvo del P. hysterophorus es específica y puede emplearse en los estudios de estabilidad. Se demostró que la humedad y la luz son factores que influyen negativamente en la estabilidad química de la partenina. CONCLUSIONES: la estabilidad química del sólido en polvo, conservado en frascos de vidrio ámbar cubiertos con papel de aluminio y tapón de goma, evaluada según las normativas ICH (2005), es insuficiente para su comercialización como materia prima para la elaboración de formas de dosificación(AU)

INTRODUCTION: Parthenium hysterophorus (escoba amarga) is a well-known antiparasitic plant, but the lack of analytical and technological research studies does not allow following-up the intrinsic stability of the plant solid powder for obtaining a scientifically-proved pharmaceutical form with antiparasitic action. OBJECTIVE: to ascertain the integral stability of the powder from P. hysterophorus foliage under actual storage conditions, taking the parthenin content as a basis. METHODS: the intrinsic P. hysterophorus solid powder stability was determined against external factors such as humidity, temperature and light. RESULTS: the high-performance liquid chromatography is a specific technique to quantify the parthenin contents in P. hysterophorus powder and may be used in the stability studies. It was proved that humidity and light had a negative impact on the chemical stability of the parthenin. CONCLUSIONS: the chemical stability of the solid powder, preserved in amber glass flasks covered with aluminium paper and rubber cap and evaluated according to ICH standards (2005), is not adequate for this substance to be marketed as raw material for dosage form preparations(AU)

Estabilidad del polvo de Parthenium hysterophorus L (escoba amarga) basado en el contenido de partenina mediante cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia / Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga) powder stability on the basis of parthenin contents by using high-performance liquid chromatography

INTRODUCCIÓN: Parthenium hysterophorus L. (escoba amarga) es una planta de reconocida acción antiparasitaria, carece de investigaciones analíticas y tecnológicas que permitan dar seguimiento a la estabilidad intrínseca del sólido en polvo de la planta, para la futura obtención de una forma farmacéutica de utilidad antiparasitaria científicamente fundamentada. OBJETIVO: establecer la estabilidad integral del polvo obtenido de follaje de P. hysterophorus en condiciones reales de almacenamiento basado en partenina. MÉTODOS: se desarrolló un estudio de la estabilidad intrínseca del sólido en polvo de P. hysterophorus frente a factores externos (humedad, temperatura y luz). RESULTADOS: la cromatografía líquida de alta eficacia (CLAE) para la cuantificación de partenina en el sólido en polvo del P. hysterophorus es específica y puede emplearse en los estudios de estabilidad. Se demostró que la humedad y la luz son factores que influyen negativamente en la estabilidad química de la partenina. CONCLUSIONES: la estabilidad química del sólido en polvo, conservado en frascos de vidrio ámbar cubiertos con papel de aluminio y tapón de goma, evaluada según las normativas ICH (2005), es insuficiente para su comercialización como materia prima para la elaboración de formas de dosificación.

INTRODUCTION: Parthenium hysterophorus (escoba amarga) is a well-known antiparasitic plant, but the lack of analytical and technological research studies does not allow following-up the intrinsic stability of the plant solid powder for obtaining a scientifically-proved pharmaceutical form with antiparasitic action. OBJECTIVE: to ascertain the integral stability of the powder from P. hysterophorus foliage under actual storage conditions, taking the parthenin content as a basis. METHODS: the intrinsic P. hysterophorus solid powder stability was determined against external factors such as humidity, temperature and light. RESULTS: the high-performance liquid chromatography is a specific technique to quantify the parthenin contents in P. hysterophorus powder and may be used in the stability studies. It was proved that humidity and light had a negative impact on the chemical stability of the parthenin. CONCLUSIONS: the chemical stability of the solid powder, preserved in amber glass flasks covered with aluminium paper and rubber cap and evaluated according to ICH standards (2005), is not adequate for this substance to be marketed as raw material for dosage form preparations.

Ahorro de energía en el secado de plantas medicinales / Energy saving in the medicinal plants drying

Se realizó un estudio de secado de plantas medicinales con el empleo de un secador solar multipropósito ubicado en la Estación Experimental de Plantas Medicinales "Dr. Juan Tomás Roig" entre cuyas ventajas, según el fabricante, está el gasto energético mínimo, el 30 por ciento de la energía total que se utiliza. Para los experimentos se seleccionaron aquellas especies que por su gran demanda se cultivan en mayores cantidades: flores de Calendula officinalis L. y de Matricaria recutita L., hojas de Plantago lanceolata L. y follaje de Parthenium hysterophorus L. Todo el material se recogió en areales silvestres de la citada estación. La investigación se desarrolló entre el 10 febrero y el 13 marzo de 2003, período obligado para realizarla pues por sus requerimientos estas especies se cultivan en la época invernal en Cuba. Paralelamente a la desecación en el equipo, se secaron muestras al aire y a la sombra, al sol directamente y en estufa de aire recirculado. Se determinó el tiempo de secado y el gasto energético, las características organolépticas, color y aroma, para evaluar la calidad de la droga seca y los índices farmacognósticos humedad, cenizas totales y principios activos que se compararon con los de las Normas Ramales establecidas en cada una de las especies estudiadas excepto en P. hysterophorus en que se utilizaron datos experimentales. Los resultados demostraron que con el empleo del secador solar multipropósito se obtiene una droga de alta calidad y se produce un ahorro energético considerable(AU)

Ahorro de energía en el secado de plantas medicinales / Energy saving in the medicinal plants drying

Se realizó un estudio de secado de plantas medicinales con el empleo de un secador solar multipropósito ubicado en la Estación Experimental de Plantas Medicinales "Dr. Juan Tomás Roig" entre cuyas ventajas, según el fabricante, está el gasto energético mínimo, el 30 por ciento de la energía total que se utiliza. Para los experimentos se seleccionaron aquellas especies que por su gran demanda se cultivan en mayores cantidades: flores de Calendula officinalis L. y de Matricaria recutita L., hojas de Plantago lanceolata L. y follaje de Parthenium hysterophorus L. Todo el material se recogió en areales silvestres de la citada estación. La investigación se desarrolló entre el 10 febrero y el 13 marzo de 2003, período obligado para realizarla pues por sus requerimientos estas especies se cultivan en la época invernal en Cuba. Paralelamente a la desecación en el equipo, se secaron muestras al aire y a la sombra, al sol directamente y en estufa de aire recirculado. Se determinó el tiempo de secado y el gasto energético, las características organolépticas, color y aroma, para evaluar la calidad de la droga seca y los índices farmacognósticos humedad, cenizas totales y principios activos que se compararon con los de las Normas Ramales establecidas en cada una de las especies estudiadas excepto en P. hysterophorus en que se utilizaron datos experimentales. Los resultados demostraron que con el empleo del secador solar multipropósito se obtiene una droga de alta calidad y se produce un ahorro energético considerable

Extracto acuoso de Escoba amarga. Estudio preliminar de sus propiedades / Aqueous extract of Parthenium hysterophorus. Preliminary study of its properties

Se realiza el estudio físico-químico preliminar de un extracto acuoso de Escoba Amarga con el propósito de lograr una materia prima útil para formular fitofármacos, se da como resultado presencia de saponinas, lactonas, aminoácidos y polisacáridos. Con el extracto obtenido se desarrollan 2 formulaciones: un champú y una loción que combinados se aplican en perros afectados con escabiosis, lográndose notables mejorías y en ningún caso reacciones adversas (AU)