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18 pages, 936 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Antimicrobial Potential of Medicinal Plant Extracts and Their Combinations Against Mastitis-Causing Bacteria in Dairy Cows

by Yuriy Balji, Leila Sultanayeva, Raikhan Mustafina, Meruyert Alyonova, Aleko Kalandia, Indira Djafaridze and Galia Zamaratskaia

Molecules 2026, 31(7), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31071089 - 26 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1846

Abstract

Mastitis in dairy cows, caused by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, leads to substantial economic losses and contributes to antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for natural alternatives. This study assessed the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, [...] Read more.

Mastitis in dairy cows, caused by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, leads to substantial economic losses and contributes to antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for natural alternatives. This study assessed the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and in vitro antimicrobial effects of ethanol extracts from ten medicinal plants, including Populus balsamifera buds, Syzygium aromaticum, and Humulus lupulus, as well as two multi-component plant mixtures and commercial products against reference strains and field isolates of mastitis pathogens. Extracts exhibited total phenolic contents ranging from 2.5 to 43.0 mg GE/g, with Populus balsamifera and Syzygium aromaticum demonstrating the strongest DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ 1.89–2.9 mg/g extract). Disc diffusion assays demonstrated broad-spectrum inhibition, particularly for Populus balsamifera (15.1–19.1 mm inhibition zones) and Humulus lupulus (9.0–18.4 mm) against key pathogens; phenolic and flavonoid contents positively correlated with antimicrobial activity (r = 0.63–0.99, p < 0.001). Multi-component mixtures provided consistent broad-spectrum effects (12.6–17.2 mm). These phenolic-rich plant extracts represent promising alternatives to reduce antibiotic use in dairy mastitis management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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22 pages, 1815 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Water Vapor Generated by Fresh-Cut Mango (Mangifera indica) on the Release of β-Carotene from β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes Under Modified-Atmosphere Packaging

by Andrés Leobardo Puebla-Duarte, Daniel Fernández-Quiroz, Ariadna Thalía Bernal-Mercado, Francisco Rodríguez-Félix, Rey David Iturralde-García, Miguel Ángel Robles-García, Saul Ruiz-Cruz, José de Jesús Ornelas-Paz, Ricardo Iván González-Vega and Carmen Lizette Del-Toro-Sánchez

Molecules 2026, 31(6), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31060976 - 14 Mar 2026

Viewed by 827

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of water vapor generated by fresh-cut mango (Mangifera indica) on the release of β-carotene from β-cyclodextrin complexes (β-C:β-CD) under stored Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) and to demonstrate β-carotene stabilization and passive–active packaging behavior under MAP conditions. [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effect of water vapor generated by fresh-cut mango (Mangifera indica) on the release of β-carotene from β-cyclodextrin complexes (β-C:β-CD) under stored Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) and to demonstrate β-carotene stabilization and passive–active packaging behavior under MAP conditions. Containers with fresh-cut mangoes, with and without MAP (4% O₂, 6% CO₂, 90% N₂), were prepared for monitoring over 6 days at 4 °C. β-C:β-CD complexes were incorporated into the lids of containers. The physicochemical, relative humidity, antioxidant, erythroprotective, microbiological, and biofunctional qualities of freshly cut mangoes during storage were analyzed. Active metabolic respiration of plant tissue led to a progressive decrease in O₂ and an increase in CO₂ in sealed containers, a phenomenon intensified by cutting, high humidity, and the system’s limited gas permeability. Application of MAP effectively modulated this microenvironment, reducing respiration rate, water loss, acidification, and the degradation of bioactive compounds. Compared to treatments without MAP, mangoes stored under modified atmosphere showed greater color stability, a slower rate of change in pH and titratable acidity, less loss of antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds, and significant preservation of erythroprotective capacity. Furthermore, MAP maintained microbial counts within the limits established by current regulations until the sixth day of storage. The encapsulation of β-C in β-CD effectively protected its bioactivity from oxidation, especially under MAP, although its release into the food matrix was limited, suggesting a predominantly passive behavior of the active packaging system. Overall, the results demonstrate that the combination of MAP constitutes a promising strategy for extending the shelf life and biofunctional stability of fresh-cut mangoes and β-C into the complex. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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18 pages, 455 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Textured Plant Protein Granulation and Presence of Dried Plant Ingredients on Physicochemical Properties of Soy-Based Burger

by Klaudia Kołodziejczak, Klara Żbik, Iwona Wojtasik-Kalinowska, Anna Onopiuk and Andrzej Poltorak

Molecules 2026, 31(5), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31050912 - 9 Mar 2026

Viewed by 988

Abstract

Meat analogues have gained high interest from consumers, food producers and the scientific community due to their potential to be a sustainable alternative to traditional meat products. This study investigated the effect of textured soy protein granulation on the structural and biochemical properties [...] Read more.

Meat analogues have gained high interest from consumers, food producers and the scientific community due to their potential to be a sustainable alternative to traditional meat products. This study investigated the effect of textured soy protein granulation on the structural and biochemical properties of plant-based burgers. Additionally, the incorporation of bioactive plant ingredients, including pomegranate, cardamom, juniper, and carrot powders, was examined for their influence on antioxidant capacity and lipid oxidation during storage. The results demonstrated that larger protein granulation (4–6 mm) enhanced burger hardness and springiness and increased cooking-induced weight loss. The addition of plant-derived bioactive ingredients improved oxidative stability and functional properties, indicating their potential role in extending shelf life and improving product quality. This research provides important knowledge on the role of product formulation and the use of bioactive ingredients in the development of high-quality meat analogues with acceptable physic-chemical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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18 pages, 1909 KB

Open AccessArticle

Designing Antioxidant-Enriched Extracts from Erica carnea L.: Optimization, Kinetics, and Thermodynamic Insights

by Violeta Jevtovic, Khulood Fahad Saud Alabbosh, Buthainah Ameen Al Shankiti, Tarfah Abdulrahman M. Alaskar, Reem Ali Alyami, Walaa I. El-Sofany, Vesna Stankov Jovanović, Jelena Nikolić, Vesna Veličković, Odeh A. O. Alshammari and Milan Mitić

Molecules 2026, 31(2), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020245 - 11 Jan 2026

Viewed by 818

Abstract

Erica carnea L. has recently gained attention as a promising natural source of antioxidants suitable for food and beverage applications. This study aimed to obtain an antioxidant-enriched extract by optimizing the key extraction variables. A full factorial design was used to evaluate the [...] Read more.

Erica carnea L. has recently gained attention as a promising natural source of antioxidants suitable for food and beverage applications. This study aimed to obtain an antioxidant-enriched extract by optimizing the key extraction variables. A full factorial design was used to evaluate the effects of ethanol concentration, extraction time, and temperature, followed by validation through multiple antioxidant assays, including DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and metal chelation. The most efficient extraction was achieved at 30% ethanol, 120 min, and 50 °C, yielding IC₅₀ values of 18.42 μg/mL (LP), 15.04 μg/mL (DPPH), 5.14 μg/mL (MC), 11.28 μg/mL (OH), and 10.06 μg/mL (ABTS), in agreement with the model predictions. Extraction kinetics were described using an unsteady-state diffusion model, supported by low root mean square (RMS) values and high coefficients of determination. Thermodynamic analysis indicated an irreversible, endothermic process, highlighting the energetic requirements for phenolic release from plant tissue. The combined statistical and kinetic approach provides a clearer understanding of how process variables influence antioxidant recovery. In addition to strong antioxidant activity, the optimized extract showed measurable cytotoxic and antibacterial effects. Overall, these findings highlight E. carnea as a valuable material for developing antioxidant-rich formulations, with extraction efficiency governed by predictable kinetic and thermodynamic behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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19 pages, 1073 KB

Open AccessArticle

Osmotic Dehydration of Apples in a Saccharose Solution Containing Fragrant Agrimony or Rosehip Extract

by Elżbieta Karlińska, Joanna Milala, Monika Kosmala and Robert Klewicki

Molecules 2025, 30(24), 4708; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30244708 - 9 Dec 2025

Viewed by 919

Abstract

In the present study, extracts from the fragrant agrimony (Agrimonia procera Wallr.) herb and the pseudo-fruits of rose (Rosa rugosa) were incorporated into a 50% sucrose solution used for the osmotic dehydration of Champion apples (Malus domestica Borkh.). This [...] Read more.

In the present study, extracts from the fragrant agrimony (Agrimonia procera Wallr.) herb and the pseudo-fruits of rose (Rosa rugosa) were incorporated into a 50% sucrose solution used for the osmotic dehydration of Champion apples (Malus domestica Borkh.). This approach enabled the investigation of the migration of fragrant agrimony and rose polyphenols—both total polyphenols and their main representatives—during the dehydration process of apples, which are among the most popular fruits due to their health-promoting and nutritional properties. The total polyphenol content was determined using spectrophotometric methods, while the major individual compounds were quantified by UHPLC-DAD-MS. At a polyphenol content of 4 g/L in the solution, a more intensive water migration (water loss of about 3 g/g DM) from the fruit tissue was achieved for both extracts compared to the pure sucrose solution. However, no relationship between the polyphenol level in the hypertonic solution and the migration of sucrose into the apple tissue was observed. With regard to polyphenolic compounds, the level of polyphenols in apples dehydrated in the presence of extracts, compared to those dehydrated in pure sucrose solution, increased with the extract dose. The maximum value—approximately 825 mg/100 g DM of total polyphenols—was obtained at an extract concentration of 6 g/L, derived from both fragrant agrimony herb and rose pseudo-fruit. In the apples dehydrated using the extracts, the presence of phenolic compounds not found in fresh apples, characteristic of the applied extracts, such as ellagitannins, ellagic acid, flavonols including quercetin and kaempferol glycosides, as well as flavones, including derivatives of apigenin and luteolin, was observed. These findings indicate that the use of fragrant agrimony and rose extracts in osmotic dehydration may serve as an effective strategy for enhancing the polyphenolic profile and functional value of dehydrated apple products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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16 pages, 1441 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ellagitannins and Other Polyphenols Along with Dietary Components of the Rosaceae Medicinal Plants

by Monika Kosmala, Joanna Milala and Elżbieta Karlińska

Molecules 2025, 30(23), 4574; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30234574 - 27 Nov 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1349

Abstract

The edible medicinal plants Sanguisorba officinalis L. (great burnet), Geum urbanum L. (wood avens), and Agrimonia procera Wallr. (fragrant agrimony) of the Rosaceae family are a several times richer source of tannins, especially ellagitannins, than berries containing 3.0, 2.1, and 3.4 g/100 g [...] Read more.

The edible medicinal plants Sanguisorba officinalis L. (great burnet), Geum urbanum L. (wood avens), and Agrimonia procera Wallr. (fragrant agrimony) of the Rosaceae family are a several times richer source of tannins, especially ellagitannins, than berries containing 3.0, 2.1, and 3.4 g/100 g phenolics in fresh matter. The herbs are traditionally used as anti-bacterial, anti-diarrheal, and anti-inflammatory agents for the intestines. As a source of phenolics, mostly ellagitannins, the herbs have a potentially beneficial effect on the lipid profile of the blood by reducing total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides. They are also a good source of dietary fiber (6.5 for Sanguisorba, 8.2 for Geum, and 11.1 g/100 g fresh matter for Agrimonia) and vitamin C, all 0.1 g/100 g fresh matter. Due to their resistance to fungal diseases and pathogens, the medicinal plants are free from pesticide residues. Sanguisorba, Geum, and Agrimonia are tasty and aromatic and can be the basis of dishes, salads, or beverages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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19 pages, 1348 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrasound-Assisted Pressurized Fluid Extraction of Antioxidant and Anticancer Molecules from a Mangaba, Cambuí and Red Propolis Blend

by Diego S. de Oliveira, Marília R. Oliveira, Glenda A. da Silva, Cristiane B. Corrêa, Ana Veruska C. da Silva, Jhonattas de C. Carregosa, Alberto Wisniewski, Jr., Maria Beatriz P. P. Oliveira, Claudio Dariva and Klebson S. Santos

Molecules 2025, 30(19), 3857; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30193857 - 23 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1476

Abstract

This study explored the antioxidant and anticancer potential of extracts obtained from the mangaba, cambuí, and red propolis blend. The extracts were obtained using ultrasound-assisted pressurized fluid extraction (UAPFE) at 50 bar, 60 °C, and a flow rate of 2 mL/min. Both sequential [...] Read more.

This study explored the antioxidant and anticancer potential of extracts obtained from the mangaba, cambuí, and red propolis blend. The extracts were obtained using ultrasound-assisted pressurized fluid extraction (UAPFE) at 50 bar, 60 °C, and a flow rate of 2 mL/min. Both sequential extraction with solvents of increasing polarity (propane followed by ethanol/water) and one-step extraction were employed for 30 min. Extracts were characterized by ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometry, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity (via DPPH and FRAP assays), and cytotoxicity using the sulforhodamine B colorimetric method. Among the tested conditions, the sequential extraction with ethanol/water (UAPFE-SE) yielded 16.2 ± 3.0% (overall extraction yield), with high phenolic content (24.1 ± 0.4 µg/mg). Mass spectrometry revealed the presence of antiproliferative phenolics. The UAPFE-SE extract demonstrated moderate antioxidant activity, with FRAP values of 394.0 ± 6.0 µg Fe²⁺/mg and DPPH scavenging capacity of 28.5 ± 0.3 µg Trolox equivalents/mg. Additionally, it exhibited cytotoxic inhibition of 82.3 ± 1.7% against lung carcinoma cells at a concentration of 100 μg/mL. The results suggest that the antioxidant properties and cytotoxic effect against lung cancer cells in vitro warrant further investigation to assess therapeutic potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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19 pages, 4477 KB

Open AccessArticle

Agapanthussaponin A from the Underground Parts of Agapanthus africanus Induces Apoptosis and Ferroptosis in Human Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells

by Tomoki Iguchi, Tamami Shimazaki and Yoshihiro Mimaki

Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3189; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153189 - 30 Jul 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1368

Abstract

To explore the potential seed compounds from natural products as anticancer agents against small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), the underground parts of Agapanthus africanus, a plant commonly used for ornamental purposes, were investigated. Three spirostan-type steroidal glycosides (1–3) were [...] Read more.

To explore the potential seed compounds from natural products as anticancer agents against small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), the underground parts of Agapanthus africanus, a plant commonly used for ornamental purposes, were investigated. Three spirostan-type steroidal glycosides (1–3) were isolated and identified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectral analysis. Compounds 1–3 exhibited cytotoxicity against SBC-3 human SCLC cells, with IC₅₀ values of 0.56, 1.4, and 7.4 µM, respectively. Compound 1, also known an agapanthussaponin A, demonstrated the most potent cytotoxicity among the isolated compounds and was evaluated for its apoptosis- and ferroptosis-inducing activities. Compound 1 arrested the cell cycle of SBC-3 cells in the G₂/M phase and induced apoptosis primarily via the mitochondrial pathway, characterized by caspases-3 and -9 activation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Additionally, 1 triggered ferroptosis via a dual mechanism consisting of enhanced cellular iron uptake through upregulation of transferrin and transferrin receptor 1 expression and impaired glutathione synthesis via downregulation of both xCT and glutathione peroxidase 4 expression. Compound 1 induces cell death via the apoptosis and ferroptosis pathways, suggesting its promise as a seed compound for the development of anticancer therapeutics against SCLC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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18 pages, 321 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Phenolic, Carotenoid, and Elemental Profiles in Three Crataegus Species from Şebinkarahisar, Türkiye: Implications for Nutritional Value and Safety

by Mehmet Emin Şeker, Ayşegül Erdoğan and Emriye Ay

Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2934; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142934 - 11 Jul 2025

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 1554 | Correction

Abstract

This study evaluated the phenolic, carotenoid, and elemental compositions of three hawthorn species—Crataegus: C. tanacetifolia (yellow), C. orientalis (orange), and C. microphylla (red)—collected from Şebinkarahisar, Türkiye. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) analysis revealed that C. microphylla had the highest phenolic content, [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the phenolic, carotenoid, and elemental compositions of three hawthorn species—Crataegus: C. tanacetifolia (yellow), C. orientalis (orange), and C. microphylla (red)—collected from Şebinkarahisar, Türkiye. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) analysis revealed that C. microphylla had the highest phenolic content, notably epicatechin, gallic acid, and quercetin. It also showed the highest levels of β-carotene and lutein, highlighting its nutraceutical potential. C. orientalis was rich in rutin and taxifolin. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) results showed significant mineral content, including Fe, Mn, Ca, and Se. About 60 g of dried hawthorn could meet 7–8% of daily selenium needs. In C. tanacetifolia, toxicological tests showed no substantial health hazards, with target hazard quotient (THQ) values below 1 and carcinogenic risk (CR) values within tolerable levels (e.g., Ni-CR: 4.68 × 10⁻⁵). Lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) levels were below detection thresholds in all samples, indicating that hawthorn fruits from this location are safe. The study also shows how species-specific and geographical factors affect hawthorn fruit nutrition and safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

Review

Jump to: Research

42 pages, 14364 KB

Open AccessReview

Pharmacological Insights into Codonopsis lanceolata: A Review of Its Potential in Disease Prevention and Therapy

by Sanjay, Rachit Sood and Hae-Jeung Lee

Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2327; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132327 - 2 Jul 2026

Viewed by 656

Abstract

Codonopsis lanceolata has long been used in traditional medicine across East Asia; however, recent scientific investigations have increasingly highlighted its broad therapeutic potential. This review provides an updated and comprehensive overview of the pharmacological properties of C. lanceolata and its bioactive constituents, focusing [...] Read more.

Codonopsis lanceolata has long been used in traditional medicine across East Asia; however, recent scientific investigations have increasingly highlighted its broad therapeutic potential. This review provides an updated and comprehensive overview of the pharmacological properties of C. lanceolata and its bioactive constituents, focusing on their roles in disease prevention and therapy. Evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and limited clinical studies suggests that C. lanceolata possesses antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and anti-cancer properties while showing protective effects in experimental models of cardiovascular dysfunction, liver injury, neurodegenerative disorders, skeletal muscle atrophy, and pulmonary damage. Additionally, its immunomodulatory effects contribute to improved host defense and regulation of inflammatory responses. These diverse actions are mediated by mechanisms involving antioxidant activity, inhibition of inflammatory signaling, regulation of metabolic pathways, modulation of apoptosis, and maintenance of tissue integrity. Despite promising findings, challenges remain regarding extract standardization, identification of key active compounds, and the translation of preclinical results into clinical efficacy. Future research integrating molecular, pharmacokinetic, and clinical approaches is essential to clarify the therapeutic value and establish its potential as a nutraceutical or therapeutic agent. This review highlights the promising pharmacological potential and identifies key directions for future research to support its potential application in modern medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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32 pages, 477 KB

Open AccessReview

Food Crops (Poaceae, Solanaceae, and Fabaceae) with Anti-Cancer Nutraceutical Prospects: A Review of Plant Extracts

by Edna C. Blanco-Torres, Gildardo Rivera, Timoteo Delgado-Maldonado, Eyra Ortiz-Pérez, Alma D. Paz-González, Ana Verónica Martínez-Vázquez, Erick de Jesús de Luna-Santillana, Jessica L. Ortega-Balleza and Lenci K. Vázquez-Jiménez

Molecules 2026, 31(12), 2126; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31122126 - 16 Jun 2026

Viewed by 774

Abstract

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of cells. The ongoing study of this disease has been vital for designing more effective therapeutic strategies for treating various types of cancer. In this regard, [...] Read more.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide and is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of cells. The ongoing study of this disease has been vital for designing more effective therapeutic strategies for treating various types of cancer. In this regard, natural chemistry as a cancer treatment represents a promising alternative for redefining therapies against this disease. Natural products for treating cancer, classified as nutraceuticals, are emerging as highly interesting alternatives due to their ability to participate in different cellular pathways and their low toxicity. This study aims to provide an overview of the potential of nutraceuticals derived from edible plants in the prevention and complementary treatment of cancer, including their reported bioactive compounds and mechanisms of action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

38 pages, 4424 KB

Open AccessReview

Unique Bioactive Secondary Metabolites of Ferns and Their Enhancement by Abiotic Stress: Medicinal Potential and Future Perspectives

by Kanchan Soneji, Antoni Szumny and Katarzyna Wróblewska

Molecules 2026, 31(12), 2029; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31122029 - 10 Jun 2026

Viewed by 774

Abstract

Ferns represent an evolutionarily distinct group of vascular plants and constitute an underexplored source of structurally diverse secondary metabolites with potential medicinal value. Several fern-derived compounds, including sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, flavonoids, phloroglucinol derivatives, lactones, and glycosides, have been associated with antibacterial, antidiabetic, analgesic, anticancer, [...] Read more.

Ferns represent an evolutionarily distinct group of vascular plants and constitute an underexplored source of structurally diverse secondary metabolites with potential medicinal value. Several fern-derived compounds, including sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, flavonoids, phloroglucinol derivatives, lactones, and glycosides, have been associated with antibacterial, antidiabetic, analgesic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and other biological activities. However, despite their biochemical uniqueness and long-standing use in traditional medicine, ferns remain less extensively investigated than angiosperms as sources of bioactive compounds. In addition to their natural phytochemical diversity, the production of secondary metabolites in ferns may be influenced by abiotic stressors, such as light quality and intensity, temperature, salinity, drought, water availability, and mineral nutrition. Available studies indicate that selected abiotic stress conditions can enhance the accumulation of phenolic acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, and related compounds in several fern families, including Aspleniaceae, Athyriaceae, Dryopteridaceae, Onocleaceae, and Thelypteridaceae. Nevertheless, information on stress-induced modulation of metabolites that are unique or highly characteristic of ferns, particularly terpenes, terpene glycosides, and specific flavonoid derivatives, remains limited. This review summarizes the current knowledge on unique secondary metabolites in ferns, their reported medicinal properties, and the potential use of abiotic stress as an elicitation strategy to enhance their production. Overall, the review highlights ferns as promising but still insufficiently explored reservoirs of bioactive metabolites and identifies key directions for future phytochemical, pharmacological, and cultivation-based research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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38 pages, 502 KB

Open AccessReview

Anticancer Potential of Cucurbitaceae, Brassicaceae, Liliaceae and Chenopodiaceae: A Review of In Vitro Evidence

by Edna C. Blanco-Torres, Gildardo Rivera, Timoteo Delgado-Maldonado, Eyra Ortiz-Pérez, Alma D. Paz-González, Ana Verónica Martínez-Vázquez, Erick de Jesús De Luna-Santillana, Jessica L. Ortega-Balleza and Lenci K. Vázquez-Jiménez

Molecules 2026, 31(11), 1902; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31111902 - 1 Jun 2026

Viewed by 605

Abstract

Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, and while various therapeutic strategies exist for its treatment, many have limited efficacy and significant adverse effects. Given this situation, there is a need to identify more effective and less aggressive therapeutic alternatives. In this [...] Read more.

Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, and while various therapeutic strategies exist for its treatment, many have limited efficacy and significant adverse effects. Given this situation, there is a need to identify more effective and less aggressive therapeutic alternatives. In this context, natural products have garnered significant interest due to their potential as anticancer agents. This review aims to highlight the nutraceutical potential of edible plants belonging to the Cucurbitaceae, Brassicaceae, Liliaceae, and Chenopodiaceae families, evaluated in different tumor cell lines, as several studies have extensively demonstrated their antitumor activity and their potential application in cancer prevention and treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

22 pages, 1557 KB

Open AccessReview

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.): A Review of Therapeutic Potential and Applications

by Jagoda Kępińska-Pacelik and Wioletta Biel

Molecules 2026, 31(2), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020226 - 9 Jan 2026

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3933

Abstract

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.) is a medicinal and nutritional plant widely recognized for its rich phytochemical composition and diverse health-promoting properties. The fruit, leaves, and flowers contain significant amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols, phenolic acids and dye compounds with antioxidant properties that [...] Read more.

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.) is a medicinal and nutritional plant widely recognized for its rich phytochemical composition and diverse health-promoting properties. The fruit, leaves, and flowers contain significant amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols, phenolic acids and dye compounds with antioxidant properties that contribute to its strong antioxidant capacity. Numerous studies have demonstrated hawthorn’s beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including regulation of blood pressure, lipid metabolism, and cardiac function. Additionally, hawthorn exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic properties, supporting its role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Its potential as a functional food ingredient and natural health supplement is increasingly recognized. However, further clinical trials and standardization of bioactive components are needed to confirm its efficacy, safety, and optimal dosage. Overall, hawthorn represents a valuable natural resource for promoting human health and well-being through diet and phytotherapy. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present—based on the scientific literature—the antioxidant properties of hawthorn and to assess the possibility of using this plant as a functional ingredient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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18 pages, 3566 KB

Open AccessReview

Flavonoids in Plants and Human Health: From Biosynthesis to Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders

by Joanna Lemanowicz, Kinga Gawlińska, Iwona Jaskulska, Dariusz Jaskulski and Mateusz Sar

Molecules 2026, 31(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31010066 - 24 Dec 2025

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4168

Abstract

Flavonoids are a class of natural plant compounds that are categorised within the polyphenolic group. It is widely acknowledged that their structural diversity results in a wide distribution within food sources, thus leading to a concomitant wide spectrum of biological activity. This review [...] Read more.

Flavonoids are a class of natural plant compounds that are categorised within the polyphenolic group. It is widely acknowledged that their structural diversity results in a wide distribution within food sources, thus leading to a concomitant wide spectrum of biological activity. This review provides an updated overview of the main flavonoid subclasses, including flavonols, flavones, flavanones, flavanols, anthocyanins, and isoflavones, and includes an examination of their chemical properties and biosynthetic pathways. The present study will discuss the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on flavonoid function in plants, including their role in ultraviolet protection, stress tolerance, and defence signalling. The regular consumption of foods rich in flavonoids has been demonstrated to be associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular, metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. This observation underscores the significance of flavonoids in a balanced diet. Medicinal plants play an important role in this task. The mechanisms of action of this substance include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of signalling pathways, and neuroprotective functions. The present findings underscore the significance of flavonoids as multifunctional bioactive molecules, which hold considerable potential for preventive and therapeutic applications. However, further well-designed human studies are necessary to determine effective dosage, long-term safety, and clinical relevance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutritional and Bioactive Components of Edible Parts of Medicinal Plants)

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