PHYTONutrients

Role of phytochemicals isolated from Cirsium japonicum in neurological disorders

2023-11-14T16:41:15+00:00

Phytochemicals are richest source of medicines since human history. Cirsium japonicum (Asteraceae), along with other members in the genus are a rich source of ﬂavonoids, polyacetylenes, acetylenes, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, sterols, terpenoids and numerous other compounds. Current study aimed to describe an updated review of the literature on the hidden potential of the C. japonicum extracts and its active biological components on neurological disorders. Among various active phytochemicals in C. japonicum includes luteolin, hispidulin, cirsimaritin, acacetin, apigenin, diosmetin, linarin, pectolinarin, and silybin B. Flora of China has been reported around 50 Cirsium species, of which 13 species are reported to be used for treatment of stopping bleedings, removing blood stasis, reducing swelling, treating bleeding syndrome and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer disease (AD). In addition, C. japonicum enhances antioxidant and anticancer activities at cellular level. Moreover, antidepressant potential of ethanol extracts of C. japonicum has also been well described are primarily due to positive modulatory impacts on GABAA receptor (GABAAR) complex. The presence of huge number of active ingredients report in multiple plant species altogether in C. japonicum, appealing for extensive studies for indepth examination of mechanisms and ultimately their usage in clinical trials.

Investigating the anti-inflammatory potential of Elaeagnus an-gustifolia L. through enzyme inhibition assays

2024-06-04T10:11:39+00:00

Elaeagnaceae family, which is common in the steppe regions of Asia, Europe, and North America, contains about 45 species, including three genus: Hippophae, Shepherdia, and Elaeagnus. There are two species in the genus Hippophae rhamnoides and Elaeagnus angustifolia. The species of the Elaeagnaceae family is widely used in public and traditional medicine due to its widespread prevalence in the world and in Turkey. Ethnobotanical field studies have revealed that the fruits of E. angustifolia L. are used in Anatolia as an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, urolithiatic, antidiarrheal, and anti-inflammatory agent in eye infections. Furthermore, the fruit of this plant is consumed as an appetizer and a source of nutrition. The study aims to evaluate the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of extracts in different polarities from the leaves, branches, and fruits of E. angustifolia and to establish the content of polyphenolic compounds (flavones and polyphenolic carboxylic acids) in the ethyl acetate extract branches using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). In this context, the anti-inflammatory effects of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts prepared from the plant have been evaluated through in vitro cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzyme inhibition, inhibition of protein denaturation and proteinase enzyme, and anti-lipoxygenase activity tests. The results showed the highest activity of the ethyl acetate extract from branches. The HPLC-MS analysis revealed that the ethyl acetate extract prepared from the branches at a concentration of 100 mg/g contains p-coumaric acid (123.91 mg%), ferulic acid (62.07 mg%), kaempferol (43.11 mg%), sinapic acid (9.82 mg%), and quercetol (12.46 mg%). It was concluded that the data obtained in this context supported the use of the plant in folk medicine.

Baicalein as a potential bioactive flavonoid: a concise overview

2024-06-11T09:22:37+00:00

Baicalein (the aglycone of baicalin) is a trihydroxyflavone isolated from Scutellaria species, mainly Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat cold, hepatic and pulmonary diseases, insomnia, inflammation, hypertension, atherosclerosis, hyperlipidaemia, and dysentery. In scientific literature, baicalein has been extensively reported to exert in vitro and in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as possessing anti-cancer, anti-microbial, immune-modulatory, metabolic, and cardiovascular protection properties. It may modulate a wide array of signaling pathways such as AMPK (5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase), PPAR-γ (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma), Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) and Bax (Bcl-2-associated X) proteins, CDKs (Cyclin-dependent kinases), MMP (metalloproteinases), SIRT1, NF-kB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer), EMT (epithelial–mesenchymal transition), TLRs (Toll-like receptors), CPT1 (carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1), and SREBP-1c (sterol regulation element binding response protein-1c). The present review is designed to focus on the potential bioactive activities of baicalein and/or baicalin.

Protective effects of piceatannol on cardiovascular diseases

2024-06-25T17:33:27+00:00

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are significant global health concerns, encompassing conditions such as atherosclerosis, arrhythmia, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. In recent years, there has been extensive research focusing on the pharmacological effects of natural compounds as potential treatments for CVDs. Piceatannol, a natural polyphenolic compound, has garnered attention in this regard. Being a structural analogue of resveratrol, piceatannol exhibits a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, stabilization of cell membrane potential, and inhibition of fat accumulation. This review summarizes the potential therapeutic applications and molecular mechanisms of piceatannol in CVDs.

Curcumin’s therapeutic story: Facts findings in the light of clinical studies

2024-05-25T11:28:45+00:00

Curcumin, a bright yellow phytochemical derived from Curcuma longa L., has been extensively studied for its health-promoting, disease-preventing, and treatment properties, and has been gaining popularity among medical researchers since its extraction. Unani and Ayurvedic medicine use it to treat a variety of conditions, including hepatic, lung, skin, and GIT disorders. It has diverse biological effects, including antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective properties, make it a promising lead compound for the development of new derivatives to treat diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. Despite its low cost, extensive potency, and its multitargeted approach of pathways, available data on its efficacy in multiple studies is still questioning, and more studies are required for this potential gap. Clinical trials assessing its biological effects revealed significant disproportionality however this review provides a comprehensive overview of recent clinical studies of curcumin, and summarizes its efficacy, biological properties, therapeutic potential, and safety. Moreover, this review provides a more special focus on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and neuroprotective properties.

The Green Solution: In-Vitro and In-Silico Screening of Fagonia cretica and Berberis lyceum Phytochemicals against Haemophilus influenzae

2024-05-04T20:17:16+00:00

Haemophilus influenzae (family Pasteurellaceae) is a coccobacillus, which is a non-spore-forming, non-motile, and non-acid-fast Gram-negative bacteria, present in upper respiratory tract causing epiglottitis, chronic bronchitis, meningitis, sinusitis, and community-acquired pneumonia. H. influenzae is resistant to certain antibiotics; novel drug discoveries are needed. In the present study, B. lyceum and F. cretica plant phytochemicals were tested in vitro against H. influenzae. Zones of inhibition were measured after the crude extract was tested using a well diffusion method against H. influenzae cultured on chocolate agar. Methanolic crude extract from B. lyceum showed a maximum zone of inhibition (32 mm) followed by ethanolic extract (30 mm). Similarly, methanolic extract from F. cretica showed maximum zone of inhibition (29 mm) followed by ethanolic extract (27.5 mm). Cytotoxic factor outer membrane protein (OMP) from H. influenzae was docked with the previously identified phytochemicals of these plants. In silico analysis shows that phytic acid from these plants is the most potent inhibitor of outer membrane protein (P6) followed by sindamine and karakuramine. The present study recommends that B. lyceum phytochemicals can be synergistically used as a potential drug against H. influenzae.

Unlocking the Insightful Antidiabetic Effects of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): A Comprehensive Review

2024-06-23T17:55:09+00:00

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) has emerged as a noteworthy contender in traditional medicine for its aromatic and therapeutic attributes, yet its potential as an antidiabetic agent remains largely unexplored in the literature. To address this gap, this study endeavors to provide a comprehensive overview of lemongrass role in diabetes management and the underlying pathways involved. Rich in bioactive compounds such as citral, flavonoids, and essential oils, lemongrass boasts a diverse array of medicinal properties. Research indicates its capability to modulate blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and fortify pancreatic β-cell function primarily through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Animal studies have demonstrated substantial reductions in fasting blood glucose and enhanced glucose tolerance, ascribed to heightened insulin signaling and inhibition of carbohydrate metabolism enzymes. Additionally, lemongrass exhibits a positive impact on lipid profiles, thereby mitigating cardiovascular risks associated with diabetes. Limited human trials have corroborated these findings, showcasing improvements in glycemic control and lipid metabolism following lemongrass consumption. In conclusion, lemongrass emerges as a promising adjunctive therapy for diabetes management, owing to its natural composition and multifaceted mechanisms. Nonetheless, further investigation, particularly through rigorous clinical trials, is imperative to determine optimal dosages, long-term safety, and efficacy, thereby facilitating its seamless integration into conventional diabetes treatment protocols.

Phytochemical diversity, ethnomedicinal and therapeutic potential of the Genus Verbesina: A concise review

2024-07-24T17:43:24+00:00

The exploration encompasses the diverse dimensions of the Verbesina genus, a cluster of flowering plants within the Asteraceae family, comprising 340 species with varied growth patterns and floral attributes. Traditional medicinal practices associated with Verbesina species across different cultures are scrutinized, emphasizing the necessity for scientific validation of these ethnomedicinal traditions. Through chemical and pharmacological profiling, Verbesina plants reveal a plethora of bioactive compounds and therapeutic potentials, propelling drug discovery and development opportunities. Safety considerations, conservation challenges, and sustainable harvesting practices emerge as pivotal factors in maximizing the benefits of Verbesina species while minimizing environmental impacts. Finally, we underscore the significance of collaborative research efforts, recognizing the invaluable contributions of our professional colleagues and researchers in related fields in fully harnessing Verbesina plants' medicinal, healthcare and conservation potentials, promising groundbreaking discoveries and applications with profound implications for human well-being.

Oranges, potatoes and phytonutrients; why are they good for human health

2024-08-27T17:57:02+00:00

Dietary chemoprevention has emerged as a cost-effective approach to control most prevalent chronic diseases including cancer. Changes in dietary patterns and lifestyle, such as increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables and more balanced intakes of meat and plant foods, are a practical and effective strategy for reducing the incidence of chronic diseases. Phytonutrients (or phytochemicals) are found in eatable fruits and vegetables that, daily ingested, may exhibit a potential for modulating human metabolism in a manner favourable for the prevention of chronic and degenerative diseases. Carotenoids and flavonoids (anthocyanins, phenolic acids, polyphenols) are examples of phytonutrients. Consumption of total phytochemical intake has been consistently linked to protection from chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. To highlight the beneficial health effects of phytonutrients in plants, we choose two interesting plants, the potato and the citrus fruits. They were chosen owing to their phytonutrient content, and low price, which makes them more easily acquired in low incoming populations, and consequently they are highly consumed not only in developing but also in developed countries. Due to its high nutrient and phytochemical content, the potato can lower oxidative stress, a key mechanism for cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention. Its phenolic compounds act as antioxidants and improve heart health. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the bioactive compounds in citrus which can reduce inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species generation, thus attenuating the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Besides important applications in the functional food sector, phytochemicals are also employed in the production of cosmetic and/or cosmeceutical products.

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of Verbesina encelioides in rodents

2024-08-28T10:44:49+00:00

Background: Verbesina encelioides, a plant with a rich history in traditional medicine, is the focus of our novel research. Commonly known as golden crownbeard or cowpen daisy, this plant has been used in various cultures for its medicinal properties. However, despite its widespread use, scientific validation of its therapeutic potential, particularly its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, remains limited. Objectives: Our study is designed to comprehensively evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of methanol extracts from various parts (leaves, stems, flowers, and roots) of Verbesina encelioides. We aim to achieve this by using established animal models. Our objectives include assessing pain-relieving properties through the Hot Plate and Tail Flick tests, investigating anti-inflammatory effects via the carrageenan-induced paw edema model, and determining safe dosage ranges through acute toxicity assays. Furthermore, our goals are to validate traditional medicinal uses, assess the effectiveness of various plant sections, and find probable bioactive chemicals that could be responsible for the observed pharmacological actions. This will provide Verbesina encelioides's medicinal use with a strong scientific foundation. Techniques: The study was carried out with great care and attention to detail. Methanol was used to collect, identify, and extract Verbesina encelioides. Acute toxicity, analgesic effects (heat plate and tail flick tests), and anti-inflammatory activity (carrageenan-induced inflammation) were tested in Swiss albino mice and Wistar albino rats. Findings: The acute toxicity assay showed no adverse effects in mice up to 1000 mg/kg, a highly encouraging result. In analgesic studies, Verbesina encelioides extracts showed dose-dependent increases in reaction times similar to aspirin. Different extracts had different effects on paw edema in anti-inflammatory testing; some at first increased inflammation but eventually showed significant decreases, especially at higher dosages. These results offer a positive perspective on Verbesina encelioides' possible medicinal use. Conclusion: These results provide a positive perspective on Verbesina encelioides' possible therapeutic use. The results imply that extracts from Verbesina encelioides, which are abundant in bioactive substances such as flavonoids, phenolics, and alkaloids, may have applications in treating pain and inflammation. Prospects for the future: These results highlight the plant's medicinal potential and suggest that more research and development could help address pain and inflammation naturally.