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23 pages, 409 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diplopterys pubipetala (Malpighiaceae): Insights into Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Activities with Chemical Composition Analysis via UHPLC-MS/MS and GC/MS

by Veronica de Melo Sacramento, Vanessa de Andrade Royo, Pedro Henrique Fonseca Veloso, Kamila Soares Freitas Souto, Alisson Samuel Portes Caldeira, Carlos Henrique Gomes Martins, Sara Lemes de Souza, Ezequias Pessoa de Siqueira, Fernando Ribeiro Cassiano, Afrânio Farias de Melo Júnior, Dario Alves de Oliveira, Elytania Veiga Mnezes and Tânia Maria de Almeida Alves

Molecules 2025, 30(4), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040946 - 18 Feb 2025

Viewed by 644

Abstract

Diplopterys pubipetala (Malpighiaceae) is a liana native to the Brazilian Cerrado biome, traditionally used in Ayahuasca preparations. Despite its cultural importance, research on its chemical composition and biological activities, which may have therapeutic potential, is limited. This study investigated the volatile and non-volatile [...] Read more.

Diplopterys pubipetala (Malpighiaceae) is a liana native to the Brazilian Cerrado biome, traditionally used in Ayahuasca preparations. Despite its cultural importance, research on its chemical composition and biological activities, which may have therapeutic potential, is limited. This study investigated the volatile and non-volatile secondary metabolites of D. pubipetala leaves, their antioxidant capacity, and their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Volatile compounds were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) coupled to solid-phase microextraction (SPME), while non-volatile compounds were annotated using UHPLC-MS/MS-ESI-Q-TOF. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated by DPPH assay, and antimicrobial activity was assessed in vitro against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida species (C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata). GC-MS analysis revealed 25 predominant volatile compounds, including ethyl dodecanoate, ethyl tetradecanoate, nonanoic acid, and 5-methylhexan-2-one, with documented antifungal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. The crude extract and ethyl acetate fraction showed strong antioxidant capacity (EC₅₀ 9.83 µg/mL and 6.42 µg/mL, respectively), and antifungal effects were observed against Candida species. This study provides the first comprehensive investigation of the antioxidant capacity and antibacterial and antifungal activities of D. pubipetala, together with a detailed chemical profile of its volatile compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

13 pages, 1677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Evaluation of Vasorelaxant and Antiplatelet Activity of Two Plant-Derived Benzoquinones: Rapanone and Embelin

by Dagmara Wróbel-Biedrawa, Monika Kubacka, Magdalena Kotańska, Marek Bednarski, Karolina Grabowska and Irma Podolak

Molecules 2025, 30(4), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040845 - 12 Feb 2025

Viewed by 593

Abstract

Vasorelaxant and antiplatelet agents play an important role in preventing and combating endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis and a plethora of associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). CVDs are the leading cause of death worldwide and nowadays occur not only in developed but also in developing societies. [...] Read more.

Vasorelaxant and antiplatelet agents play an important role in preventing and combating endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis and a plethora of associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). CVDs are the leading cause of death worldwide and nowadays occur not only in developed but also in developing societies. They include, among others, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral artery disease. Due to their high prevalence, it is important to seek efficient preventive measures, such as lifestyle changes and the implementation of appropriate herbal dietary supplementation and treatment alternatives. Plant-derived quinones have recently drawn researchers’ attention due to their interesting biological potential. Embelin and rapanone are two plant-derived benzoquinones with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Embelin has already been shown to have vasorelaxant and antiplatelet activity, but little is known about rapanone in the context of CVDs. Therefore, we decided to comparatively evaluate their activity in a specially designed experimental protocol. Following the isolation of both benzoquinones from plant sources (rapanone from Ardisia crenata leaves; embelin from Lysimachia punctata roots), their effects were comparatively assessed in a biofunctional study on isolated rat aorta (precontracted with phenylephrine) and in vitro on platelet aggregation. Both benzoquinones showed 50% vasorelaxation in an NO-dependent manner. Interestingly, rapanone was slightly more effective as an antiplatelet agent than embelin. The antiplatelet effect of both benzoquinones was specific, as no cytotoxicity towards platelets was observed at the concentrations tested. This is the first report on the vasorelaxant and antiplatelet activity of rapanone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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24 pages, 1712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seseli foliosum (Somm. et Levier) Manden.—A Comprehensive Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation

by Mariam Nersezashvili, Dali Berashvili, Malkhaz Jokhadze, Mariam Metreveli, Łukasz Świątek, Kinga Salwa, Łukasz Pecio, Krzysztof Kamil Wojtanowski, Adrianna Skiba, Izabela Korona-Głowniak, Gökhan Zengin and Krystyna Skalicka-Woźniak

Molecules 2025, 30(3), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30030725 - 5 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1476

Abstract

The genus Seseli L. (Apiaceae family) is widespread across Europe and Asia, with ten species identified in Georgia. Among these, Seseli foliosum (Somm. et Levier) Manden., is notable for its unique pharmacological properties. To our knowledge, comprehensive phytochemical and biological investigations have not [...] Read more.

The genus Seseli L. (Apiaceae family) is widespread across Europe and Asia, with ten species identified in Georgia. Among these, Seseli foliosum (Somm. et Levier) Manden., is notable for its unique pharmacological properties. To our knowledge, comprehensive phytochemical and biological investigations have not yet been conducted. The primary aim of this research is to explore the chemical and biological properties of S. foliosum, thereby enhancing its potential applications in medicine and related fields. Different chromatographic techniques were utilized to isolate individual compounds and to identify the chemical composition of S. foliosum MeOH and Et₂O extracts from seeds and roots. A battery of biological assays (antimicrobial, antioxidant, enzymatic, anxiolytic, and cytotoxic) were employed to assess the pharmacological properties of the extracts. The results from gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) revealed that both MeOH and Et₂O extracts contain a diverse array of compounds, including monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and phenolic compounds. Furanocoumarin edultin was isolated from the MeOH extract by liquid–liquid separation (LLS). The MeOH extracts exhibited important antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and antimicrobial activities with notable efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 125 µg/mL) and Candida glabrata (MIC 62.5 µg/mL). Underground Et₂O extracts showed advanced cytotoxic activity, particularly against hypopharyngeal carcinoma cells (CC₅₀ 22.33 µg/mL and 27.16 µg/mL, respectively). The study provides a wide-range analysis of the phytochemical composition and biological activities of S. foliosum, highlighting its potential as a source of bioactive compounds. These findings contribute to the understanding of the therapeutic potential of S. foliosum and lay the groundwork for further pharmacological and clinical research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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20 pages, 1690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Waste to Value: Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Anthocyanins and Flavonols from Pistacia lentiscus L. Oilcakes

by Lucrezia Muti, Luana Beatriz dos Santos Nascimento, Giulia Goracci, Cassandra Detti, Cecilia Brunetti, Anna Rita Bilia, Francesco Ferrini and Antonella Gori

Molecules 2025, 30(2), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30020237 - 9 Jan 2025

Viewed by 973

Abstract

Pistacia lentiscus L., commonly known as the mastic tree or lentisk, is a woody Mediterranean plant revered for its ecological relevance as well as for its extensive ethnobotanical heritage. Historically, the fruits and the resin of P. lentiscus have been widely utilized in [...] Read more.

Pistacia lentiscus L., commonly known as the mastic tree or lentisk, is a woody Mediterranean plant revered for its ecological relevance as well as for its extensive ethnobotanical heritage. Historically, the fruits and the resin of P. lentiscus have been widely utilized in traditional medicine, underscoring its important role in local healing practices. Given these properties, this study explored an innovative approach to efficiently extract anthocyanins and flavonols from P. lentiscus oilcakes utilizing ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) as an alternative to conventional solvent extraction. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) were used to identify and quantify the anthocyanins and flavonols, revealing the successful extraction of eight distinct anthocyanins and twenty flavonols. A Fractional Factorial Design (FFD) followed by a Box–Behnken design (BBD) were applied to optimize the yield of anthocyanins and flavonols. The optimal extraction conditions found were to be an extraction time of 15 min with 70% ethanol as the solvent and a liquid-to-solid ratio of 0.012 L g⁻¹, which resulted in a maximum extraction yield of 19.78 mg g⁻¹ dry extract for the Total Flavonol Content and over 25.4 mg g⁻¹ dry extract for the Total Flavonol and Anthocyanin Content. By elucidating the optimal conditions for extracting anthocyanins and flavonol glycosides, this study opens promising avenues for utilizing P. lentiscus oilcake by-products, supporting sustainable practices, and advancing the valorization of Mediterranean bio-resources for health-promoting applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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18 pages, 1429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Type of Herbal Preparations (Powdered Plant Material vs. Dry Ethanolic Extracts) on the Bioaccessibility of Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (L.) Spreng.) Phytochemicals in Simulated Digestion Conditions

by Łukasz Sęczyk, Danuta Sugier and Piotr Sugier

Molecules 2024, 29(24), 5968; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29245968 - 18 Dec 2024

Viewed by 815

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to determine the potential bioaccessibility of bearberry phytochemicals influenced by the type of herbal preparations. Herbal preparations–powdered plant materials and dry extracts obtained using various ethanol concentrations (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) were subjected [...] Read more.

The main aim of this study was to determine the potential bioaccessibility of bearberry phytochemicals influenced by the type of herbal preparations. Herbal preparations–powdered plant materials and dry extracts obtained using various ethanol concentrations (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) were subjected to simulated gastric or gastrointestinal digestion for the evaluation of the bioaccessibility of the phytochemicals. The phytochemical characterization of the plant material, dry extracts, and potentially bioaccessible fractions was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric assays. The content of the main compounds, i.e., arbutin, hydroquinone, hyperoside, pentagalloylglucose, and picein, as well as the total phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant activity through the ABTS^•+-scavenging activity and Fe³⁺-reducing power were determined. The bioaccessibility of arbutin, i.e., the main compound in bearberry, was high, in most cases exceeding 95%, and was generally unaffected by the experimental factors; however, the changes in the content of the other compounds, the total phenolic content, and the antioxidant activity were more prominent and influenced by the type of the herbal preparation and the stage of digestion. Given the compromise between the abundance of the bearberry phytochemicals, the antioxidant activity, and the resulting potential bioaccessibility of these phytochemicals, the dry extracts prepared with 40% ethanol seem to be the most promising for phytopharmaceutical purposes and functional food applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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17 pages, 1405 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Evaluation of Carob Leaf (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Crude Extracts Using NMR and Mass Spectroscopic Techniques

by Themistoklis Venianakis, Nikolaos Parisis, Atalanti Christou, Vlasios Goulas, Nikolaos Nikoloudakis, George Botsaris, Tjaša Goričan, Simona Golič Grdadolnik, Andreas G. Tzakos and Ioannis P. Gerothanassis

Molecules 2024, 29(22), 5273; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29225273 - 7 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1368

Abstract

Carob leaves have gained attention for their bioactive properties and traditional medicinal uses, including as treatment for diabetes, digestive disorders, and microbial infections. The aim of this study was to explore the phytochemical composition of carob leaf acetone extracts using advanced spectroscopic techniques. [...] Read more.

Carob leaves have gained attention for their bioactive properties and traditional medicinal uses, including as treatment for diabetes, digestive disorders, and microbial infections. The aim of this study was to explore the phytochemical composition of carob leaf acetone extracts using advanced spectroscopic techniques. The combined use of heteronuclear nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments with 1D selective nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) offers detailed structural insights and enables the direct identification and quantification of key bioactive constituents in carob leaf extract. In particular, the NMR and mass spectrometry techniques revealed the presence of myricitrin as a predominant flavonoid, as well as a variety of glycosylated derivatives of myricetin and quercetin, in acetone extract. Furthermore, siliquapyranone and related gallotannins are essential constituents of the extract. The potent inhibitory effects of the carob leaf extract on Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 50 μg mL⁻¹) and a-glucosidase enzyme (IC₅₀ = 67.5 ± 2.4 μg mL⁻¹) were also evaluated. Finally, the antibacterial potency of carob leaf constituents were calculated in silico; digalloyl-parasorboside and gallic acid 4-O-glucoside exert a stronger bactericidal activity than the well-known myricitrin and related flavonoids. In summary, our findings provide valuable insights into the bioactive composition and health-promoting properties of carob leaves and highlight their potential for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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13 pages, 2543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discovery of Chemical Constituents with Anti-Atopic Dermatitis Properties from Aster koraiensis

by Ji-Young Kim, Hye-Min Kim, So-Ri Son, Hyo-Jin An and Dae Sik Jang

Molecules 2024, 29(21), 5002; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29215002 - 22 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1027

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory dermatological disease characterized by persistent scratching and recurrent eczema. Due to the influence of environmental variables on the cause of this disease, there remains an ongoing interest in the development of therapeutic interventions. Previous studies have shown that [...] Read more.

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory dermatological disease characterized by persistent scratching and recurrent eczema. Due to the influence of environmental variables on the cause of this disease, there remains an ongoing interest in the development of therapeutic interventions. Previous studies have shown that various plants of the genus Aster and its derived phytochemicals possess efficacy in treating inflammatory-mediated diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Therefore, the present study investigated a potential compound with anti-atopic dermatitis properties derived from Aster koraiensis leaves, specifically targeting HaCaT keratinocyte cells. First, we isolated eleven compounds with three unknown compounds, including two polyacetylenes (1 and 3) and a benzoic acid derivative (4). The chemical structures of the isolates were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR, specific rotation, acid hydrolysis, and quantum chemical calculations. Next, we treated an A. koraiensis extract and all isolates to HaCaT keratinocyte, followed by stimulation with TNF-α/IFN-γ. Among bioactive compounds, astersaponin J (7) exhibited a significant reduction in the levels of inflammatory cytokines associated with atopic dermatitis at a concentration of 2.5 μM. These findings suggest that chemicals obtained from an A. koraiensis 95% ethanol extract and derived compounds are potential therapeutics to help reduce the immunological response driven by atopic dermatitis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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11 pages, 717 KiB

Open AccessArticle

IL-6 Inhibitory Compounds from the Aerial Parts of Piper attenuatum and Their Anticancer Activities on Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines

by Hye Jin Kim, Lee Kyung Kim, Anna Kim, Khin Myo Htwe, Tae-Hwe Heo, Kye Jung Shin, Hee Jung Kim and Kee Dong Yoon

Molecules 2024, 29(13), 2981; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29132981 - 23 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1421

Abstract

Piper attenuatum Buch-Ham, a perennial woody vine belonging to the Piperaceae family, is traditionally used in Southeast Asia for treating various ailments such as malaria, headache, and hepatitis. This study described the isolation and identification of three new compounds, piperamides I-III (1 [...] Read more.

Piper attenuatum Buch-Ham, a perennial woody vine belonging to the Piperaceae family, is traditionally used in Southeast Asia for treating various ailments such as malaria, headache, and hepatitis. This study described the isolation and identification of three new compounds, piperamides I-III (1–3), which belong to the maleimide-type alkaloid skeletons, along with fifteen known compounds (4–18) from the methanol extract of the aerial parts of P. attnuatum. Their chemical structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods (UV, IR, ESI-Q-TOF-MS, and 1D/2D NMR). All the isolates were evaluated for their ability to inhibit IL-6 activity in the human embryonic kidney-Blue™ IL-6 cell line and their cytotoxic activity against ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV3/SKOV3-TR) and chemotherapy-resistant variants (cisplatin-resistant A2780/paclitaxel-resistant SKOV3). The compounds 3, 4, 11, 12, 17, and 18 exhibited IL-6 inhibition comparable to that of the positive control bazedoxifene. Notably, compound 12 displayed the most potent anticancer effect against all the tested cancer cell lines. These findings highlight the importance of researching the diverse activities of both known and newly discovered natural products to fully unlock their potential therapeutic benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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19 pages, 2300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Composition, Nutritional, and Biological Properties of Extracts Obtained with Different Techniques from Aronia melanocarpa Berries

by Alessandra Piras, Silvia Porcedda, Antonella Smeriglio, Domenico Trombetta, Mariella Nieddu, Franca Piras, Valeria Sogos and Antonella Rosa

Molecules 2024, 29(11), 2577; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29112577 - 30 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1923

Abstract

This study investigates the chemical composition, nutritional, and biological properties of extracts obtained from A. melanocarpa berries using different extraction methods and solvents. Hydrodistillation and supercritical fluid extraction with CO₂ allowed us to isolate fruit essential oil (HD_EX) and fixed [...] Read more.

This study investigates the chemical composition, nutritional, and biological properties of extracts obtained from A. melanocarpa berries using different extraction methods and solvents. Hydrodistillation and supercritical fluid extraction with CO₂ allowed us to isolate fruit essential oil (HD_EX) and fixed oil (SFE_EX), respectively. A phenol-enriched extract was obtained using a mild ultrasound-assisted maceration with methanol (UAM_M). The HD_EX most abundant component, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS), was italicene epoxide (17.2%), followed by hexadecanoic acid (12.4%), khusinol (10.5%), limonene (9.7%), dodecanoic acid (9.7%), and (E)-anethole (6.1%). Linoleic (348.9 mg/g of extract, 70.5%), oleic (88.9 mg/g, 17.9%), and palmitic (40.8 mg/g, 8.2%) acids, followed by α-linolenic and stearic acids, were the main fatty acids in SFE_EX determined using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector and an evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC-DAD/ELSD). HPLC-DAD analyses of SFE_EX identified β-carotene as the main carotenoid (1.7 mg/g), while HPLC with fluorescence detection (FLU) evidenced α-tocopherol (1.2 mg/g) as the most abundant tocopherol isoform in SFE_EX. Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-MS (LC-ESI-MS) analysis of UAM_M showed the presence of quercetin-sulfate (15.6%, major component), malvidin 3-O-(6-O-p-coumaroyl) glucoside-4-vinylphenol adduct (pigment B) (9.3%), di-caffeoyl coumaroyl spermidine (7.6%), methyl-epigallocatechin (5.68%), and phloretin (4.1%), while flavonoids (70.5%) and phenolic acids (23.9%) emerged as the most abundant polyphenol classes. UAM_M exerted a complete inhibition of the cholesterol oxidative degradation at 140 °C from 75 μg of extract, showing 50% protection at 30.6 μg (IA₅₀). Furthermore, UAM_M significantly reduced viability (31–48%) in A375 melanoma cells in the range of 500–2000 μg/mL after 96 h of incubation (MTT assay), with a low toxic effect in normal HaCaT keratinocytes. The results of this research extend the knowledge of the nutritional and biological properties of A. melanocarpa berries, providing useful information on specific extracts for potential food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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13 pages, 23994 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical and Micro-Morphological Characterization of Atraphaxis pyrifolia Bunge Growing in the Republic of Kazakhstan

by Alima Abilkassymova, Raushan Kozykeyeva, Jennyfer Andrea Aldana-Mejía, Sebastian John Adams, Ubaidilla Datkhayev, Aknur Turgumbayeva, Kulpan Orynbassarova, Seethapathy G. Saroja, Ikhlas A. Khan and Samir A. Ross

Molecules 2024, 29(4), 833; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29040833 - 13 Feb 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1662

Abstract

Atraphaxis pyrifolia is a native species of Central Asia, known for curing several disorders. The species has little knowledges about its chemical composition and any information about its morphological characteristics despite its importance in traditional Asian medicine. This is one of the first [...] Read more.

Atraphaxis pyrifolia is a native species of Central Asia, known for curing several disorders. The species has little knowledges about its chemical composition and any information about its morphological characteristics despite its importance in traditional Asian medicine. This is one of the first approaches to the phytochemical and morphological characterization of this species. Micro-morphology was performed on the stem, and leaf parts of this plant to profile the morpho-anatomical characters using brightfield, fluorescence, polarized and scanning electron microscopy. Leaves were extracted with hexane and methanol. The hexane extract was analyzed using GC-MS analysis revealing the major presence of γ-sitosterol and nonacosane. The methanolic extract was submitted to Vacuum Liquid Chromatography and Sephadex LH-20. HPTLC, HR-ESI-MS and NMR techniques were used to identify the main compounds. Four glycosylated flavonoids were isolated: 8-O-acetyl-7-O-methyl-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosylgossypetin (Compound 1), and 7-O-methyl-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosylgossypetin (Compound 3), and two other compounds reported for the first time in the literature (Compounds 2 and 4). The findings presented herein furnish pertinent information essential for the identification and authentication of this medicinal plant. Such insights are invaluable for facilitating robust quality control measures and serve as a foundational framework for subsequent endeavours in metabolic, pharmacological, and taxonomical analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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14 pages, 1309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Assessment of the Antidiabetic and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum Extracts Processed Using Membrane Technologies

by Elena Neagu, Gabriela Paun, Camelia Albu, Oana Teodora Apreutesei and Gabriel Lucian Radu

Molecules 2023, 28(20), 7156; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207156 - 18 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2355

Abstract

Recently, there has been increased interest in the discovery of new natural herbal remedies for treating diabetes and inflammatory diseases. In this context, this work analyzed the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory potential of Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum herbs, which have [...] Read more.

Recently, there has been increased interest in the discovery of new natural herbal remedies for treating diabetes and inflammatory diseases. In this context, this work analyzed the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory potential of Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum herbs, which have been studied less from this point of view. Therefore, extracts were prepared and processed using membrane technologies, micro- and ultrafiltration, to concentrate the biologically active principles. The polyphenol and flavone contents in the extracts were analyzed. The qualitative analysis of the polyphenolic compounds was performed via HPLC, identifying chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid and rutin in A. absinthium; chlorogenic acid, luteolin and rutin in A. vulgaris; and genistin in T. foenum-graecum. The antidiabetic activity of the extracts was analyzed by testing their ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and the anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed by testing their ability to inhibit hyaluronidase and lipoxygenase. Thus, the concentrated extracts of T. foenum-graecum showed high inhibitory activity on a-amylase—IC₅₀ = 3.22 ± 0.3 μg/mL—(compared with acarbose—IC₅₀ = 3.5 ± 0.18 μg/mL) and high inhibitory activity on LOX—IC₅₀ = 19.69 ± 0.52 μg/mL (compared with all standards used). The concentrated extract of A. vulgaris showed increased α-amylase inhibition activity—IC₅₀ = 8.57 ± 2.31 μg/mL—compared to acarbose IC₅₀ = 3.5 ± 0.18 μg/mL. The concentrated extract of A. absinthium showed pronounced LOX inhibition activity—IC₅₀ = 19.71 ± 0.79 μg/mL—compared to ibuprofen—IC₅₀ = 20.19 ± 1.25 μg/mL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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Review

Jump to: Research

23 pages, 3046 KiB

Open AccessReview

Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria L.)—An Edible Weed with Health-Promoting Properties

by Kamila Dębia, Małgorzata Dzięcioł, Agnieszka Wróblewska and Katarzyna Janda-Milczarek

Molecules 2025, 30(7), 1603; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30071603 - 3 Apr 2025

Viewed by 646

Abstract

Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria L.) is a species of medicinal perennial in the celery family (Apiaceae), also considered an edible plant with medicinal effects and high nutritional value. In traditional folk medicine, it was known as a remedy for gout (arthritis) and also used [...] Read more.

Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria L.) is a species of medicinal perennial in the celery family (Apiaceae), also considered an edible plant with medicinal effects and high nutritional value. In traditional folk medicine, it was known as a remedy for gout (arthritis) and also used to relieve rheumatism or sciatica. The botanical characteristics, occurrence, nutritional composition, and traditional and present-day applications of this plant are discussed. Furthermore, the important specific plant metabolites including organic acids and their derivatives, flavonoids, coumarins, polyacetylenes and terpene components of essential oil are presented and their biological activity is described. The valuable medicinal properties of Aegopodium podagria L. include anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, diuretic, sedative and protective effects on the kidneys and liver. The aim of this paper was to describe, on the basis of the available literature, the chemical composition, bioactivity and health-promoting properties of this wild edible plant. The information obtained is described and summarized in tables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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36 pages, 1094 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antioxidant Potential of Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Scabies Infestation

by Marcin Wróblewski, Joanna Wróblewska, Jarosław Nuszkiewicz, Celestyna Mila-Kierzenkowska and Alina Woźniak

Molecules 2024, 29(22), 5310; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29225310 - 11 Nov 2024

Viewed by 4755

Abstract

Oxidative stress, characterized by an overproduction of reactive oxygen species that overwhelm the body’s physiological defense mechanisms, is a key factor in the progression of parasitic diseases in both humans and animals. Scabies, a highly contagious dermatological condition caused by the mite Sarcoptes [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress, characterized by an overproduction of reactive oxygen species that overwhelm the body’s physiological defense mechanisms, is a key factor in the progression of parasitic diseases in both humans and animals. Scabies, a highly contagious dermatological condition caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, affects millions globally, particularly in developing regions. The infestation leads to severe itching and skin rashes, triggered by allergic reactions to the mites, their eggs, and feces. Conventional scabies treatments typically involve the use of scabicidal agents, which, although effective, are often associated with adverse side effects and the increasing threat of resistance. In light of these limitations, there is growing interest in the use of medicinal plants as alternative therapeutic options. Medicinal plants, rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties, offer a promising, safer, and potentially more effective approach to treatment. This review explores the role of oxidative stress in scabies pathogenesis and highlights how medicinal plants can mitigate this by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage, thereby alleviating symptoms and improving patient outcomes. Through their natural antioxidant potential, these plants may serve as viable alternatives or complementary therapies in the management of scabies, especially in cases where resistance to conventional treatments is emerging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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40 pages, 3756 KiB

Open AccessReview

3′-8″- Biflavones: A Review of Their Structural Diversity, Natural Occurrence, Role in Plants, Extraction and Identification

by Dunja Šamec, Iva Jurčević Šangut, Erna Karalija, Bojan Šarkanj, Bruno Zelić and Anita Šalić

Molecules 2024, 29(19), 4634; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29194634 - 29 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1287

Abstract

Dimeric forms of flavonoids, known as biflavonoids, are much less studied compared to monomeric forms. It is estimated that nearly 600 different natural biflavonoids have been described to date, containing various subtypes that can be subdivided according to the position of their combinations [...] Read more.

Dimeric forms of flavonoids, known as biflavonoids, are much less studied compared to monomeric forms. It is estimated that nearly 600 different natural biflavonoids have been described to date, containing various subtypes that can be subdivided according to the position of their combinations and the nature of the subunits. The group in which two monomers are linked by a 3′-8″-C atom includes the first isolated biflavonoid ginkgetin, derivatives of amentoflavone, and several other compounds. 3′-8″-biflavones recently attracted much attention as potential molecules with biological activity such as antiviral and antimicrobial activity and as effective molecules for the treatment of neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases and in cancer therapies. With the growing interest in them as pharmacologically active molecules, there is also increasing interest in finding new natural sources of 3′-8″-biflavones and optimizing methods for their extraction and identification. Herein, we have summarized the available data on the structural diversity, natural occurrence, role in plants, extraction, and identification of 3′-8″-biflavones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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Open AccessReview

Phytochemistry and Biological Profile of the Chinese Endemic Herb Genus Notopterygium

by Zhikang Tang, Renlin Zheng, Ping Chen and Liangchun Li

Molecules 2024, 29(14), 3252; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29143252 - 9 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1860

Abstract

Notopterygium, a plant genus belonging to the Apiaceae family, is utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal properties. Specifically, the roots and rhizomes of these plants are employed in phytotherapy to alleviate inflammatory conditions and headaches. This review provides a concise [...] Read more.

Notopterygium, a plant genus belonging to the Apiaceae family, is utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal properties. Specifically, the roots and rhizomes of these plants are employed in phytotherapy to alleviate inflammatory conditions and headaches. This review provides a concise overview of the existing information regarding the botanical description, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and molecular mechanisms of the two Notopterygium species: Notopterygium incisum and N. franchetii. More than 500 distinct compounds have been derived from these plants, with the root being the primary source. These components include volatile oils, coumarins, enynes, sesquiterpenes, organic acids and esters, flavonoids, and various other compounds. Research suggests that Notopterygium incisum and N. franchetii exhibit a diverse array of pharmacological effects, encompassing antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiarrhythmic, anticoagulant, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties on various organs such as the brain, heart, digestive system, and respiratory system. Building activity screening models based on the pharmacological effects of Notopterygium species, as well as discovering and studying the pharmacological mechanisms of novel active ingredients, will constitute the primary development focus of Notopterygium medicinal research in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Perspectives of Medicinal Plants)

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