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12 pages, 930 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

From Fresh to Dried Lavender Flower: Changes in Phytochemical Profile According to Drying Method

by Matteo Caser, Nicole Mélanie Falla, Sonia Demasi and Valentina Scariot

Horticulturae 2023, 9(6), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9060700 - 14 Jun 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2110

Abstract

Lavandula angustifolia Mill. is a part of the Lamiaceae family, which includes aromatic plants used in perfumery, manufactory, food, ornamental, and medicinal sectors. Both fresh and dried lavender flowers can be exploited in different ways; however, post-harvest treatments such as drying processes can [...] Read more.

Lavandula angustifolia Mill. is a part of the Lamiaceae family, which includes aromatic plants used in perfumery, manufactory, food, ornamental, and medicinal sectors. Both fresh and dried lavender flowers can be exploited in different ways; however, post-harvest treatments such as drying processes can help maintain the flowers’ properties for a longer period. This study analyzed fresh (F) and dried lavender flower ultrasound-assisted extracts, comparing two different drying methods, i.e., heat-pump drying (HP) and hot-air drying (HA), to assess potential differences in their effect on the phytochemical composition (total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, and phenolic profile) and antioxidant activity (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays) of flowers, focusing on three lavender selections from north-western Alps (i.e., Susa, Stura, and Tanaro). Results showed that HP-dried flowers are to be preferred over HA-dried flowers, as they contain +66.73% of phenolics and +62.2% of anthocyanins, and they have higher antioxidant activity (from 60.32% to 284.3% more according to the assay). HP-dried flowers, particularly those from the Tanaro selection, showed also higher values in the relative antioxidant capacity index (RACI) and the global antioxidant score (GAS), ranking together with the fresh flowers. Nine bioactive compounds out of thirteen were detected by means of HPLC, seven in F (caffeic acid, hyperoside, quercetin, ellagic acid, catechin, epicatechin, and dehydroascorbic acid), four in HA (ferulic acid, hyperoside, quercitrin, and epicatechin), and two in HP (caffeic acid and hyperoside). The higher temperatures used in HA probably promoted oxidative and biochemical reactions that led to the presence and increase in these compounds. However, many other phenolic compounds may contribute to the antioxidant power of lavender extracts. Overall, HP resulted in an effective and sustainable method for drying lavender flowers and may have interesting applications to obtain final products richer in bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity to be used in the functional food industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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16 pages, 1114 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Biostimulants of Different Origins Increase Mineral Content and Yield of Wild Rocket While Reducing Nitrate Content through Successive Harvests

by Christophe El-Nakhel, Spyridon A. Petropoulos, Ida Di Mola, Lucia Ottaiano, Eugenio Cozzolino, Youssef Rouphael and Mauro Mori

Horticulturae 2023, 9(5), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9050580 - 12 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1299

Abstract

Nowadays, biostimulant application is a sustainable practice with which to reduce inputs while maintaining crop yield and quality. Furthermore, the successive harvesting technique is also adopted to increase overall yield and reduce production costs in leafy vegetables. Therefore, a greenhouse experiment was performed [...] Read more.

Nowadays, biostimulant application is a sustainable practice with which to reduce inputs while maintaining crop yield and quality. Furthermore, the successive harvesting technique is also adopted to increase overall yield and reduce production costs in leafy vegetables. Therefore, a greenhouse experiment was performed to compare four different biostimulants, (i) two from enzymatic hydrolysate of Fabaceae species, (ii) one made from betaine, alginic acid and caidrin, (iii) and another one made from alfalfa extract, algae and molasses rich in low-molecular-weight amino acids, in order to verify their ability to limit nitrate accumulation in wild rocket leaves while boosting yield and quantitative and qualitative components through successive harvests. Successive harvests increased the marketable yield of wild rocket by 41% on average compared to the first harvest, whereas biostimulants treatments increased the yield by 38% on average compared to the control. The SPAD index was increased due to successive harvesting and biostimulant application. While biostimulant application resulted in a 24% decrease in nitrates, it also caused a considerable increase in mineral content in wild rocket leaves. Both biostimulant application and successive harvesting showed promising results, and they could be suggested in leafy vegetable cultivation due to the boosted yield and quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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19 pages, 6870 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationships between Phenotypes and Chemotypic Characteristics of Local Gymnema inodorum Plants in Northern Thailand

by Pasin Norkum ai, Malaiporn Wongkaew, Tibet Tangpao, Parinyawadee Sritontip, Seksan Wongsiri, Taepin Junmahasathien, Chompunut Lumsangkul and Sarana Rose Sommano

Horticulturae 2023, 9(4), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9040484 - 12 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2267

Abstract

Gymnema inodorum (Lour.) Decne or Chiang Da, the local northern Thai vegetable, is renowned for its anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic properties and is highly sought after by the functional food industry. This research investigated the relationship between the physiological characteristics, genetic variation, and chemical [...] Read more.

Gymnema inodorum (Lour.) Decne or Chiang Da, the local northern Thai vegetable, is renowned for its anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic properties and is highly sought after by the functional food industry. This research investigated the relationship between the physiological characteristics, genetic variation, and chemical compositions of different Chiang Da accessions. Two commercial lines (COM1 and COM2) and eight local accessions (BAC1-8) of Chiang Da were gathered and maintained in the same study plot for the investigation of their morphological characteristics, genetic variation, and nutritional and phytochemical constituents. From the morphological data, the two commercial lines were clearly distinctive with their closely related leaf structures. Random amplification of the polymorphic illustrated the genetic diversity between the local accessions and commercial strains in a similar pattern as described by their morphology characteristics and proximate contents. The phytochemical characteristics, nonetheless, projected the two commercial lines in separate groups. The outcome of this study could be beneficial toward the selection of the Chiang Da strains with specific traits for plant breeding programs of functional food interest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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16 pages, 2596 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Variability of Nutritional, Antioxidant, and Textural Traits of a Collection of Snap Beans of Different Colors

by Valeria Menga, Clara Fares, Ana Campa, Juan Jose Ferreira, Elena Bitocchi, Roberto Papa and Romina Beleggia

Horticulturae 2023, 9(3), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9030311 - 27 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2912

Abstract

A set of 54 snap bean lines grown under organic farming was characterized for different traits: pod color, pod cross-section shape, pod section width (PSW), protein content (PC), and sugar content (S). After cooking, the lines were analyzed for firmness and color parameters [...] Read more.

A set of 54 snap bean lines grown under organic farming was characterized for different traits: pod color, pod cross-section shape, pod section width (PSW), protein content (PC), and sugar content (S). After cooking, the lines were analyzed for firmness and color parameters (CIE-L*, a*, b*). The snap bean lines were grouped based on pod cross-section shape and pod color into eight groups, and significant differences were observed among lines and groups for all the traits investigated. In particular, the yellow pods were harder than the other snap beans and less sweet due to the negative correlation between firmness and sugar content. Fourteen selected lines with contrasting firmness and belonging to different color groups were investigated for their phenolic composition and antioxidant activity (TEAC) before and after domestic cooking. A general decrease was observed only for vanillic acid, quercetin, and apigenin-8-C-glucoside. Quercetin-3-O-rutinoside and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside were detected in all samples with the highest values in the SBP042 line in both raw and cooked samples. Antioxidant activity decreased with cooking (average of 39%), but purple line SBP053 showed the lowest and no significant loss (3.1%). The results reported in this study could be useful to design specific varieties for different markets and purposes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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12 pages, 1612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adsorption/Desorption on Macroporous Resins of Okicamelliaside in the Extract of Camellia nitidissima Chi Leaves

by Hanyu Zheng, Ying Gao, Jianyong Zhang, Xin Meng, Qizhen Du and Junfeng Yin

Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020166 - 27 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1583

Abstract

Okicamelliaside (OCS) from Camellia nitidissima Chi (C. nitidissima) leaves can be used in therapeutic drugs or nutritional foods. However, which resin is the best for separating OCS and the underlying mechanism for its superiority remains unclear. In this study, the differences [...] Read more.

Okicamelliaside (OCS) from Camellia nitidissima Chi (C. nitidissima) leaves can be used in therapeutic drugs or nutritional foods. However, which resin is the best for separating OCS and the underlying mechanism for its superiority remains unclear. In this study, the differences in the adsorption/desorption effectiveness and adsorption kinetics of OCS on five resins were compared. AB-8 was found to be an effective resin for the separation of OCS and the adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-first order model (R² > 0.99). In order to optimize the separation of OCS by the resin AB-8, the adsorption time, OCS sample concentration, eluent solvent and volume were tested using a 7 mL column with a diameter of 2 cm. The results showed that the optimum adsorption time was 30 min and the optimum sample concentration was 2.5 mg/mL, while the optimum desorption was achieved by using 2.1 times column volume of 60% ethanol solution. The separation yielded a purified extract with OCS of 290.82 (±2.17) mg/g, which was 6.0 times more than the crude extract (E1, 48.51 (±0.56) mg/g of OCS). This study highlights the use of AB-8 resin for the separation of OCS as an effective technique on the basis of the adsorption/desorption of OCS on the resin. The method has the potential for obtaining green OCS extract with a high OCS content from the crude extract of the leaves of C. nitidissima. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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16 pages, 1942 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Antifungal Activity of Plant Waste Extracts against Phytopathogenic Fungi: Allium sativum Peels Extract as a Promising Product Targeting the Fungal Plasma Membrane and Cell Wall

by Ana Teixeira, Eva Sánchez-Hernández, João Noversa, Ana Cunha, Isabel Cortez, Guilhermina Marques, Pablo Martín-Ramos and Rui Oliveira

Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020136 - 19 Jan 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4387

Abstract

The harmful effect of synthetic fungicides on the environment and the development of resistance by fungi raises concerns about their security and future efficacy. In this work, we investigated plant by-products with the antifungal activity that could be safe alternatives to conventional fungicides. [...] Read more.

The harmful effect of synthetic fungicides on the environment and the development of resistance by fungi raises concerns about their security and future efficacy. In this work, we investigated plant by-products with the antifungal activity that could be safe alternatives to conventional fungicides. The in vitro antifungal potential of plant by-product extracts showed that garlic peel extract (GPE) was the most effective against several phytopathogenic fungi. Accordingly, in ex situ assays with apples, GPE significantly reduced the lesion size caused by subepidermal inoculation with Colletotrichum acutatum spores. In addition, Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant strains affected in ergosterol synthesis showed higher resistance to GPE than the parental strain, indicating that the extract might target an intermediate of this pathway. Moreover, GPE affects the cell wall, given that bck1 and mkk1/mkk2 mutants were less able to cope with the stress because of the impairment of the remodeling mechanisms. Regarding the apoptosis-deficient mutant yca1, sensitivity was similar to that of the parental strain, suggesting that the extract does not induce apoptosis. A diverse group of sulfur compounds was identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Our findings contribute to the elucidation of the antifungal mechanism of GPE and highlight its potential as an alternative biofungicide in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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9 pages, 420 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Microbial and Non-Microbial Biostimulants as Innovative Tools to Increase Macro and Trace Element Mineral Composition of Tomato and Spinach

by Stefania Papa, Giovanna Marta Fusco, Michele Ciriello, Luigi Formisano, Sheridan L. Woo, Stefania De Pascale, Youssef Rouphael and Petronia Carillo

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121157 - 7 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2152

Abstract

The use of biostimulants has gained popularity in recent years as a sustainable approach to increase the yield and quality of horticultural crops. However, information is missing concerning their ability to enhance the concentration of some beneficial elements (macro- and microelements) in the [...] Read more.

The use of biostimulants has gained popularity in recent years as a sustainable approach to increase the yield and quality of horticultural crops. However, information is missing concerning their ability to enhance the concentration of some beneficial elements (macro- and microelements) in the edible tissues of plants, which, in turn, are useful for human health. For this reason, we investigated the effects of different microbial and non-microbial biostimulants on the content of essential macro- and micro-nutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Se) in San Marzano and Datterino tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) by atomic adsorption spectrometry, also estimating the Daily Intake (EDI) and the Nutrient Contribution (NC) of fresh produce. All the biostimulants were able to increase the content of macro- and micro-nutrients in the studied horticultural products. Specifically, compared with control, application of Trichoderma harzianum T22 on the Pixel tomato increased Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and Se contents by 49.66, 38.68, 129.79, 64.03 and 72.72%. In the San Marzano tomato, higher values of Fe (55.16 µg 100 g⁻¹ fw), Mn (30.63 µg 100 g⁻¹ fw), Zn (20.89 µg 100 g⁻¹ fw), Cu (1.91 µg 100 g⁻¹ fw) and Se (0.266 µg 100 g⁻¹ fw) were obtained after application of a tropical plant extract (TPE) biostimulant. Similarly, compared with control, application of a vegetal-derived protein hydrolysate (VPDH) on spinach increased EDI-Fe, EDI-Zn, EDI-Mn, EDI-Cu and EDI-Se by 98.98, 127.09, 125.93, 68.52 and 230.76%, respectively. Therefore, biostimulants, regardless of their origin and nature, could be an ecological tool for biofortification programs for both fruit and leafy vegetables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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21 pages, 4748 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Performance and Soil Microbial Responses to Irrigation Management: A Novel Study in a Calafate Orchard

by Matías Betancur, Jorge Retamal-Salgado, María Dolores López, Rosa Vergara-Retamales and Mauricio Schoebitz

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121138 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2080

Abstract

Calafate fruits have a high content of phenolic compounds and an antioxidant activity up to four times higher than that of blueberries. The establishment of a calafate orchard and irrigation responses on fruit and soil characteristics have been scarcely studied. Therefore, the objective [...] Read more.

Calafate fruits have a high content of phenolic compounds and an antioxidant activity up to four times higher than that of blueberries. The establishment of a calafate orchard and irrigation responses on fruit and soil characteristics have been scarcely studied. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of water replenishment rate: 0%, 50%, 100% and 150% of reference evapotranspiration (ET₀), on soil microbiological activity, plant physiological response, fruit yield and chemical composition in a calafate orchard. The results showed that irrigation at 50% ET₀ presented significant increases in soil urease, dehydrogenase and acid phosphatase activity. Likewise, irrigation at 50% ET₀ significantly increased stomatal conductance and plant chlorophyll index, which led to a significant increase in fruit yield being 60% higher compared to the other treatments. Despite the higher fruit yield, 50% ET₀ irrigation had a similar level of total anthocyanins and ORAC antioxidant capacity as the 100% ET₀ treatment. In contrast, 0% and 150% ET₀ treatments showed a higher degree of stress and got higher values for total anthocyanins and fruit antioxidant capacity. Irrigation rates 50% ET₀ increases fruit yield while maintaining fruit quality and optimizing water resources in commercial orchards of calafate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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14 pages, 1001 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Varieties and Mulching on the Quality and Quantity of Vegetable Pepper Yield

by Magdaléna Valšíková-Frey, Jiří Mlček, Martina Bučková, Anna Adámková, Martin Adámek and Tunde Jurikova

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111035 - 5 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2192

Abstract

The influence of the cultivation method on green pepper fruits was investigated. Six pepper cultivars were planted using soil covered by brown mulching foil and in uncovered soil. Cultivation was maintained for two years providing the equivalent conditions of cultivation. The ascorbic acid [...] Read more.

The influence of the cultivation method on green pepper fruits was investigated. Six pepper cultivars were planted using soil covered by brown mulching foil and in uncovered soil. Cultivation was maintained for two years providing the equivalent conditions of cultivation. The ascorbic acid content, total antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol content, soluble solids content and yield were observed and compared to mulching foil application, year of cultivation, pepper variety and order of harvest. The obtained results proved a statistically significant effect of mulching film in all tested varieties; the effects of year of cultivation and plant variety were also confirmed. The mulching film had a positive effect on pepper yield. The highest yield of peppers was grown on mulching foil in the variety ‘Lungy’. The vitamin C content, total antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content and soluble solids content were demonstrably higher in the variant without mulching film. The highest levels of total polyphenol content and total antioxidant capacity were determined in the ‘Yolo wonder’ variety, the darkest colored cultivar. The highest content of vitamin C and soluble solids content were found in the ‘Semaroh’ variety grown without mulching film, however, this variety achieved the lowest yield growing with mulching foil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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22 pages, 1554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical Profiling, Mineral Elements, and Biological Activities of Artemisia campestris L. Grown in Algeria

by Wafa Zahnit, Ouanissa Smara, Lazhar Bechki, Chawki Bensouici, Mohammed Messaoudi, Naima Benchikha, Imane Larkem, Chinaza Godswill Awuchi, Barbara Sawicka and Jesus Simal-Gandara

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100914 - 6 Oct 2022

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 3486

Abstract

Artemisia campestris L. is commonly used in folk medicine due to its antioxidant, antidiabetic, nutritional, and culinary properties. Our study assessed the total phenolics contents, antioxidant, and pharmacological activities of various organic extracts prepared from the aerial parts of Artemisia campestris, and [...] Read more.

Artemisia campestris L. is commonly used in folk medicine due to its antioxidant, antidiabetic, nutritional, and culinary properties. Our study assessed the total phenolics contents, antioxidant, and pharmacological activities of various organic extracts prepared from the aerial parts of Artemisia campestris, and its mineral elements and chemical profile were analyzed. ICP-OES was used to analyze the mineral profile and the LC-MS/MS analysis was used to characterize the phytochemical profiling. A series of antioxidant tests were carried out using DPPH, ABTS, beta-carotene, GOR, RP, CUPRAC, and O-Phenanthroline assays. In vitro potent inhibitory actions of A. campestris extracts were investigated to evaluate their anti-cholinesterase, anti-lipase and anti-diabetic activities. The photoprotective effect of the plant was measured by the sun protection factor. The most powerful inhibitor of α-amylase was AcPEE (IC₅₀ = 11.79 ± 0.14 μg/mL), which also showed a significant butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory effect (IC₅₀ = 93.50 ± 1.60 μg/mL). At IC₅₀ = 23.16 ± 0.19 μg/mL, AcEAE showed the most powerful inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase. A. campestris was found to have a strong photoprotective ability, absorbing UV radiations with SPF values ranging from 26.07 ± 0.22 to 40.76 ± 0.11. The results showed that A. campestris extract has strong antioxidant activity in all the test samples except for the carotene bleaching assay. The LC/MS-MS results showed that AcDE, AcEAE, and AcBE identified 11 compounds belonging to Polyphenols Compounds. Our result also showed that A. campestris contains a high concentration of essential minerals, including macro-and micro-elements with their values close to the FAO’s recommended concentration. A. campestris has the capacity to improve pharmaceutical formulations, health, and medical research, due to its compositions and potent biological properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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24 pages, 1949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phytostimulation and Synergistic Antipathogenic Effect of Tagetes erecta Extract in Presence of Rhizobacteria

by Alina Perisoara, Ioana Cristina Marinas, Elisabeta Irina Geana, Mariana Constantin, Marian Angheloiu, Lucia Pirvu and Stelica Cristea

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090779 - 28 Aug 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2277

Abstract

In anticipation of the food crisis, developing innovative products and technologies to increase crop yield and quality is a necessity. In this context, the aim of this study was to develop a phytostimulant based on Tagetes erecta extract and rhizobacteria to increase the [...] Read more.

In anticipation of the food crisis, developing innovative products and technologies to increase crop yield and quality is a necessity. In this context, the aim of this study was to develop a phytostimulant based on Tagetes erecta extract and rhizobacteria to increase the antifungal activity against phytopathogenic fungi. The hydroalcoholic extract from T. erecta flowers was characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometric assays (total phenolic content, total flavonoids content, reducing sugar content), qualitatively by ATR-FTIR and quantitatively for individual compounds by UHPLC-HESI analysis. The antioxidant activity was evaluated and the phytostimulation capacity was done on the radish and cucumber. The variants of the concentration that stimulated the rhizobacteria (Bacillus sp.) proliferation were selected by evaluating the influence on the microbial viability in a liquid medium. The antifungal activity against fungal pathogens (Monilinia laxa, Fusarium graminearum, Aspergillus niger) was determined by reducing mycelium growth in solid and liquid media. The synergistic effect between optimal levels of rhizobacteria-containing T. erecta extract showed a significant decrease in mycelium development. Thus, PGPR strains treated with T. erecta extract could be applied as biocontrol agents against plant pathogens and stimulate vegetable seedlings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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17 pages, 2169 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Annona muricata Leaves as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: Extraction and Quantification Using Ultrasound

by Yolanda Nolasco-González, Martina Alejandra Chacón-López, Rosa Isela Ortiz-Basurto, Selene Aguilera-Aguirre, Gustavo Adolfo González-Aguilar, Cristian Rodríguez-Aguayo, Merle Catalina Navarro-Cortez, Hugo Sergio García-Galindo, María de Lourdes García-Magaña, Libier Meza-Espinoza and Efigenia Montalvo-González

Horticulturae 2022, 8(7), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8070560 - 21 Jun 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3522

Abstract

In this work, the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) (operating conditions of sonication amplitude, pulse-cycle, and extraction time) was investigated to obtain an extract rich in biologically active compounds from Annona muricata leaves. In addition, the content of bioactive compounds from the extract by the [...] Read more.

In this work, the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) (operating conditions of sonication amplitude, pulse-cycle, and extraction time) was investigated to obtain an extract rich in biologically active compounds from Annona muricata leaves. In addition, the content of bioactive compounds from the extract by the optimal UAE conditions (UAE extract) was compared with extracts prepared by decoction and infusion. Moreover, Artemia salina toxicity was evaluated in all extracts. UAE extract (using optimal conditions: 80% amplitude, 0.7 s pulse-cycle, for 4.54 min) contained 178.48 mg/100 mL of soluble phenols, 20.18 mg/100 mL of total flavonoids, 27.81 mg/100 mL of hydrolyzable polyphenols, 167.07 mg/100 mL of condensed tannins, 30.44 mg/100 mL of total alkaloids and 14.62 mg/100 mL of total acetogenins. The UAE extract exhibited a high antioxidant capacity and a higher content of bioactive compounds from ~6 to ~927-fold than decoction or infusion, depending on the type of compound. Twenty-four different phenolic compounds were identified in the samples, and UAE extract produced the highest concentration. All extracts were considered non-toxic using the A. salina test. The UAE extract from A. muricata leaves is a rich source of bioactive compounds and can be utilized to formulate therapeutic drugs or nutraceutical foods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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14 pages, 328 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biochemical Characterization of Six Traditional Olive Cultivars: A Comparative Study

by Songul Comlekcioglu, Farah Elgudayem, Gozde Nogay, Nesibe Ebru Kafkas, Rayda Ben Ayed, Sezai Ercisli, Amine Assouguem, Rafa Almeer and Agnieszka Najda

Horticulturae 2022, 8(5), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8050416 - 7 May 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2240

Abstract

Olives are an essential ingredient in Turkish food culture. Turkey has grown to become one of the top five producers of olives and olive oils in the world. Olive trees in general are found in the coastal parts of the country. The fruits [...] Read more.

Olives are an essential ingredient in Turkish food culture. Turkey has grown to become one of the top five producers of olives and olive oils in the world. Olive trees in general are found in the coastal parts of the country. The fruits of six traditional cultivars of olive (Gemlik, Domat, Memecik, Ayvalik, Cilli, and Adana Topagi), grown in Adana, were characterized based on their fruit skin color, the amount of chlorophylls, fatty acids, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic compounds, as well as volatile compounds. The international cultivar Manzanilla, grown in the same orchards as the traditional cultivars, was also included in the study to make a comparison. Compared to the Manzanilla cultivar, Memecik showed the highest amount of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity with the highest level of lightness, blueness/yellowness, and color intensity. Ayvalik presented the highest level of greenness/redness. Although the highest fruit lightness and darkness were found in the Cilli cultivar, with the highest amount of chlorophyll a (2.63 mgL⁻¹), there was more chlorophyll b in Adana Topagi fruits (3.34 mgL⁻¹). The highest percentage of fatty acids was found in the Gemlik cultivar of 66.81%, among which oleic acid was the major component. The total aldehydes ranged between 33.43% and 50.60%. Compared to Manzanilla and the traditional cultivars, the Domat cultivar had the highest amount of hexanal of 44.42%. Adana Topagi had the highest amount of alcohols (61.34%) and acids (1.31%). Memecik registered the highest amount of ketones (17.86%) and terpenes (20.34%). Among all cultivars, Manzanilla displayed the highest amount of esters (2.30%). In this study, traditional cultivars were found to be the richest in health-promoting chemicals. Furthermore, a significant variability among the cultivars was revealed, implying that metabolic fingerprinting approaches could be used to differentiate cultivars once more research into the effects of the growing conditions and environmental factors on the chemical profiles of each cultivar is carried out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

12 pages, 626 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) By-Products as Valuable and Sustainable Sources of Health Benefits

by Suwapat Kittibunchakul, Chatrapa Hudthagosol, Promluck Sanporkha, Suwimol Sapwarobol, Piya Temviriyanukul and Uthaiwan Suttisansanee

Horticulturae 2022, 8(4), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8040344 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6011

Abstract

By-products from sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) oil extraction as the husk and shell are used as low value fertilizer or animal feed. The nutritive values, antioxidant activities, phenolics, and in vitro health-related activities of the sacha inchi husk and shell were [...] Read more.

By-products from sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) oil extraction as the husk and shell are used as low value fertilizer or animal feed. The nutritive values, antioxidant activities, phenolics, and in vitro health-related activities of the sacha inchi husk and shell were investigated and compared to increase their economic potential as future food sources. Higher protein, carbohydrates, and total dietary fiber content were detected in the husk, while higher fat content and energy were found in the shell. Several phenolics were also detected in both the husk and shell, with p-coumaric acid being the most abundant phenolic in the shell and caffeic acid in the husk. Total phenolic content was 1.6-fold greater in the shell than in the husk, leading to 1.8–2.7-fold higher antioxidant activity and 1.2-fold higher anti-glycation activity. Various types and quantities of phenolics also led to diverse in vitro enzyme inhibitory activities in the husk and shell. Knowledge received from this research might be useful to maximize the utilization of by-products from sacha inchi oil extraction as future food sources with valuable nutritional compositions, phenolics, and potential health benefits. Further investigations on the health properties of the sacha inchi husk and shell should include toxicity, bioaccessibility, and in vivo experiments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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19 pages, 692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Studies on Suppression of Important Plant Pathogens by Using Pomegranate and Avocado Residual Peel and Seed Extracts

by Stefanos Leontopoulos, Prodromos Skenderidis, Konstantinos Petrotos, Chrysanthi Mitsagga and Ioannis Giavasis

Horticulturae 2022, 8(4), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8040283 - 28 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2538

Abstract

Potential synergistic action of aqueous extracts of pomegranate peel (PP), avocado peel (AP), and avocado seed (AS) wastes isolated by microwave-assisted extraction were assessed in in vitro and in vivo assays as biocontrol agents against several plant pathogenic fungi. The study findings contribute [...] Read more.

Potential synergistic action of aqueous extracts of pomegranate peel (PP), avocado peel (AP), and avocado seed (AS) wastes isolated by microwave-assisted extraction were assessed in in vitro and in vivo assays as biocontrol agents against several plant pathogenic fungi. The study findings contribute to the utilization of a value-added industrial byproduct and provide significant value in advancing the development of new plant protecting compositions that benefit from the synergistic effects between two important plant species that contain several natural bioactive compounds. More specifically, the in vitro results proved that the use of 100%-pure (PP) extracted waste affected the mycelium growth of Penicillium expansum. Furthermore, mycelium growth of Aspergillus niger was decreased by 10.21% compared to control after 7 days of growth in medium agar containing 100% AP and extracted waste. Moreover, mycelium growth of Botrytis cinerea was affected by equal volume of avocado extraction wastes (50% peel and 50% seed) only at the first 3 days of the inoculation, while at the seventh day of the inoculation there was no effect on the mycelium growth. Equal volumes of the examined wastes showed decreased mycelium growth of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici by 6%, while Rhizoctonia solani mycelium growth was found to be the most sensitive in PP application. In addition, the in vivo assay shown that PP extract suppresses damage of tomato plants caused by R. solani followed by extracted wastes from AP. Based on the research findings, it can be argued that PP and AP extracts can be used as natural antifungals instead of dangerous synthetic antifungals to effectively treat phytopathogens that cause fruit and vegetable losses during cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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Review

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18 pages, 587 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Anthocyanin Accumulation in Berry Fruits and Their Antimicrobial and Antiviral Properties: An Overview

by Aistis Petruskevicius, Jonas Viskelis, Dalia Urbonaviciene and Pranas Viskelis

Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020288 - 20 Feb 2023

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5732

Abstract

Because of the recent global crises and lifestyle trends, anthocyanin-rich fruits are receiving more attention due to their medicinal qualities. Many studies have concluded that higher anthocyanin consumption tends to correlate with health benefits. Furthermore, research has shown great promise for anthocyanin application [...] Read more.

Because of the recent global crises and lifestyle trends, anthocyanin-rich fruits are receiving more attention due to their medicinal qualities. Many studies have concluded that higher anthocyanin consumption tends to correlate with health benefits. Furthermore, research has shown great promise for anthocyanin application in treating fever and neurodegenerative processes. Once the industrial application difficulties are solved, anthocyanins might prove to be a crucial component in helping to treat the diseases that are becoming more common—viral infections and illnesses associated with aging. Fruit extracts that contain large quantities of anthocyanins have antimicrobial and antiviral (against SARS-CoV-2 virus) properties. Most of the synthesized anthocyanins in the fruit-bearing fruits are stored in the fruits. The aim of this review article is to indicate the fruit species that have the most potential for anthocyanin extraction from fruits, to overview the antimicrobial and antiviral capabilities of anthocyanin and the main sample preparation and extraction methods that preserve polyphenolic compounds and reduce the time expenditure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants and By-Products as Sources of Biological Active Compounds)

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