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Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants
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Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products Chemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2026 | Viewed by 12473

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Zofia Niziol-Lukaszewska

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Technology of Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Products, Medical College, University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow, Sucharskiego 2, 35-225 Rzeszow, Poland
Interests: bioactive compounds; plant extracts; cosmetic application; natural antioxidants; bioferments; skin cells
Dr. Aleksandra Ziemlewska

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Technology of Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Products, Medical College, University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow, Sucharskiego 2, 35-225 Rzeszow, Poland
Interests: fermented beverage; kombucha; plant extracts; cosmetic application; antioxidants; skin cells

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Plant raw materials, thanks to the content of many bioactive compounds, play a key role in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases. Many plant bioactive ingredients exhibit both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes them promising raw materials in the treatment of diseases associated with chronic oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. Plant raw materials are becoming more and more popular key ingredients in many products, in which they are used both as complexes of compounds present in the plant and as isolated individual substances. In cosmetology, the properties of these substances are particularly appreciated due to their ability to protect skin from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can lead to premature skin aging, as well as numerous dermatological diseases. Currently, plant sources of substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects are the subject of a significant amount of intensive research and are increasingly being used as multifunctional innovative ingredients in many products.

This Special Issue, entitled “Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants” aims to present new information on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of plant materials. We encourage researchers to submit their original scientific articles related to the assessment of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of plant materials. Papers can also focus on the quantitative and qualitative analysis of plant extracts or the study of formulations for new cosmetic products containing plant materials. Review articles presenting the current state of knowledge on the above topic are also welcome.

Dr. Zofia Niziol-Lukaszewska
Dr. Aleksandra Ziemlewska
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • antioxidant activities
  • anti-inflammatory activities
  • extraction methods
  • isolation of active compounds
  • biological activity
  • cosmetic application
  • plant extracts
  • natural compounds

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 2936 KB  
Article
Comparative Phytochemical, Colloidal, and Antioxidant Profiling of Artemisia albida, Artemisia leucodes, and Artemisia scopaeformis: Potentials for Cosmeceutical and Nutraceutical Applications
by Janar Jenis, Ayaulym Minkayeva, Orynkul Yessimova, Saltanat Kumargaliyeva, Abdul Bari Shah, Thiruventhan Karunakaran, Kuzembekova Gulnur, Haji Akber Aisa and Aizhamal Baiseitova
Molecules 2025, 30(21), 4165; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30214165 - 23 Oct 2025
Viewed by 528
Abstract
Artemisia albida, Artemisia leucodes, and Artemisia scopaeformis were selected for this study based on their traditional medicinal uses and phytochemical profiles. A. albida exhibited the highest level of extractive substances (20.76%) and showed the greatest concentration of water-soluble polysaccharides (2.14%). Tannins, [...] Read more.
Artemisia albida, Artemisia leucodes, and Artemisia scopaeformis were selected for this study based on their traditional medicinal uses and phytochemical profiles. A. albida exhibited the highest level of extractive substances (20.76%) and showed the greatest concentration of water-soluble polysaccharides (2.14%). Tannins, well known for their astringency and antioxidant activity, were most abundant in A. scopaeformis (2.81%) and A. albida (1.52%). The phenolics coumarins were concentrated in A. scopaeformis (6.49%) and A. leucodes (4.46%). Among the extracts, A. leucodes exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50 = 13.53 μM, FRAP = 52.02 μmol TE/g), the highest SPF (23.24), and the most effective DNA protection (91.4%). It indicated a high level of biological effectiveness, with an SPF comparable to natural UV-protection agents and DNA protection exceeding 90%, suggesting potential. Molecular docking confirmed binding of catechin and epicatechin to glutathione peroxidase. Colloidal analysis revealed that hydrolates obtained from A. albida and A. leucodes have significant surface activity, reducing water surface tension to 40–50 mJ/m2, whereas the hydrolate from A. scopaeformis had only a minor effect. Thus, A. leucodes is a strong candidate for multifunctional antioxidant, UV-protective, and skin-regenerating applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants)
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30 pages, 7610 KB  
Article
Anti-Aging, Anti-Inflammatory, and Cytoprotective Properties of Lactobacillus- and Kombucha-Fermented C. pepo L. Peel and Pulp Extracts with Prototype Skin Toner Development
by Aleksandra Ziemlewska, Zofia Nizioł-Łukaszewska, Martyna Zagórska-Dziok, Agnieszka Mokrzyńska, Witold Krupski, Magdalena Wójciak and Ireneusz Sowa
Molecules 2025, 30(20), 4082; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30204082 - 14 Oct 2025
Viewed by 901
Abstract
This study examined the cosmetic potential of extracts from the peel and pulp of fermented pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.). Fermentation was carried out using Lactobacillus strains (L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, L. fermentum, and L. paracasei) and kombucha [...] Read more.
This study examined the cosmetic potential of extracts from the peel and pulp of fermented pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.). Fermentation was carried out using Lactobacillus strains (L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, L. fermentum, and L. paracasei) and kombucha (SCOBY). Fermentation was carried out for 3 days (for lactic acid bacteria) and 10 and 20 days (for kombucha). The obtained products were analyzed by LC-MS for phytochemical composition and assessed for their antioxidant capacity (DPPH and ABTS assays) and ROS reduction in keratinocytes (HaCaT) and fibroblasts (HDF). The obtained ferments demonstrated cytoprotective effects (using Alamar Blue and Neutral Red assays). Both kombucha ferments and certain strains of Lactobacillus ferments demonstrated anti-aging effects (by inhibiting collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase) and anti-inflammatory effects (by significantly affecting IL-6 and IL-1β cytokine levels). A moisturizing skin toner containing the extracts and ferments was developed and tested for cytoprotective effects on HaCaT keratinocytes. The results confirm that fermented pumpkin peel and pulp extracts can be used as multifunctional cosmetic ingredients with the potential to provide antioxidant protection, anti-aging, and skin regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants)
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18 pages, 1041 KB  
Article
Oxidative Stress Protection and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Polyphenolic Fraction from Urtica dioica: In Vitro Study Using Human Skin Cells
by Katarzyna Wójcik-Borowska, Weronika Wójciak, Magdalena Żuk, Piotr Luchowski, Agnieszka Skalska-Kamińska, Wiktoria Pacuła, Ireneusz Sowa and Magdalena Wójciak
Molecules 2025, 30(12), 2515; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30122515 - 9 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3865
Abstract
Polyphenols are valuable contributors to skin health, offering potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help counteract the process of inflammaging. According to the literature, Urtica dioica L. is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds, suggesting its potential for applications in cosmetology and dermatology. [...] Read more.
Polyphenols are valuable contributors to skin health, offering potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help counteract the process of inflammaging. According to the literature, Urtica dioica L. is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds, suggesting its potential for applications in cosmetology and dermatology. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of polyphenol-rich fractions isolated from U. dioica leaves (UdLs) and flowers (UdFs) using human skin cells subjected to oxidative stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, respectively. Extracts were obtained via an accelerated solvent extraction and further purified by a solid-phase extraction to concentrate their polyphenolic content. Their chemical composition was analyzed using UPLC-DAD-MS. Biological activity was assessed through cytotoxicity assays (NR and MTT), chemical and cellular antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC, TPC, and H₂DCFDA), an evaluation of antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, CAT), lipid peroxidation (MDA), and cytokine production (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10). Our study showed that both fractions were abundant in phenolic compounds, with chlorogenic acid identified as the predominant constituent. UdLs contained higher levels of phenolic acids, whereas the UdF was richer in flavonoids, particularly derivatives of isorhamnetin. Both the UdL and UdF were non-cytotoxic and exhibited strong radical scavenging potential, with the UdL being slightly more effective. They significantly reduced intracellular ROS levels, enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and attenuated lipid peroxidation in cells exposed to oxidative stress. Moreover, both fractions reduced the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS and H2O2-stimulated fibroblasts. These results highlight the potential of polyphenolic fractions derived from U. dioica leaves and flowers as multifunctional ingredients for anti-aging and skin-protective cosmetics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants)
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Review

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23 pages, 769 KB  
Review
Current Insights into the Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Ruscus aculeatus
by Wiktoria Pacuła, Ireneusz Sowa, Marcin Feldo, Filip Graczyk, Rafał Patryn and Magdalena Wójciak
Molecules 2025, 30(22), 4417; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30224417 - 15 Nov 2025
Viewed by 938
Abstract
Ruscus aculeatus L. (butcher’s broom), a member of the Asparagaceae family, is a perennial shrub native to the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions and naturalized in parts of Europe and North America. Traditionally, the rhizome and root of this species have been employed [...] Read more.
Ruscus aculeatus L. (butcher’s broom), a member of the Asparagaceae family, is a perennial shrub native to the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions and naturalized in parts of Europe and North America. Traditionally, the rhizome and root of this species have been employed in folk medicine for the treatment of venous insufficiency, hemorrhoids, edema, and various dermatological and urinary ailments. These therapeutic applications are attributed primarily to the presence of steroidal saponins such as ruscogenin and neoruscogenin, as well as flavonoids and other bioactive compounds. In recent decades, R. aculeatus extracts have been incorporated into numerous pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations, particularly those intended to improve venous tone, reduce swelling, and alleviate symptoms of chronic venous disorders. However, despite its widespread use, studies regarding R. aculeatus remain limited. Many investigations have focused on complex formulations such as Cyclo 3 Fort, which also contains hesperidin methylchalcone and ascorbic acid, making it difficult to attribute the observed effects solely to R. aculeatus. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of R. aculeatus. The available data support the plant’s traditional use, yet further well-designed experimental and clinical studies are needed to clarify its mechanisms of action, confirm its therapeutic potential, and ensure safety and standardization in medicinal preparations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants)
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40 pages, 1588 KB  
Review
The Efficacy of Melatonergic Receptor Agonists Used in Clinical Practice in Insomnia Treatment: Melatonin, Tasimelteon, Ramelteon, Agomelatine, and Selected Herbs
by Kacper Żełabowski, Wojciech Pichowicz, Izabela Skowron, Jagoda Szwach, Kamil Biedka, Michał Wesołowski, Katarzyna Błaszczyk, Oliwia Ziobro, Wiktor Petrov, Wirginia Kukula-Koch and Agnieszka Chłopaś-Konowałek
Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3814; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183814 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 5801
Abstract
Insomnia is a common and complex disorder, rooted in the dysregulation of circadian rhythms, impaired neurotransmitter function, and disturbances in sleep–wake homeostasis. While conventional hypnotics such as benzodiazepines and Z-drugs are effective in the short term, their use is limited by a high [...] Read more.
Insomnia is a common and complex disorder, rooted in the dysregulation of circadian rhythms, impaired neurotransmitter function, and disturbances in sleep–wake homeostasis. While conventional hypnotics such as benzodiazepines and Z-drugs are effective in the short term, their use is limited by a high potential for dependence, cognitive side effects, and withdrawal symptoms. In contrast, melatonergic receptor agonists—melatonin, ramelteon, tasimelteon, and agomelatine—represent a pharmacologically targeted alternative that modulates MT1 and MT2 receptors, which are pivotal to the regulation of circadian timing and sleep initiation. Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of these agents in reducing sleep onset latency, extending total sleep duration, and re-aligning disrupted circadian rhythms, particularly among older individuals and patients with non-24 h sleep–wake disorders. Notably, agomelatine offers additional antidepressant properties through selective antagonism of the 5-HT2C receptor in micromolar concentrations. In contrast, its agonistic activity at melatonergic receptors is observed in the low sub-nanomolar range, which illustrates the complexity of this drug’s interactions with the human body. All compounds reviewed demonstrate a generally favorable safety and tolerability profile. Accumulating evidence highlights that selected medicinal plants, such as chamomilla, lemon balm, black cumin, valeriana, passionflower and lavender, may exert relevant hypnotic or anxiolytic effects, thus complementing melatonergic strategies in the management of insomnia. This structured narrative review presents a comprehensive analysis of the molecular pharmacology, receptor affinity, signaling pathways, and clinical outcomes associated with melatonergic agents. It also examines their functional interplay with serotonergic, GABAergic, dopaminergic, and orexinergic systems involved in arousal and sleep regulation. Through comparative synthesis of pharmacokinetics and neurochemical mechanisms, this work aims to inform the development of evidence-based strategies for the treatment of insomnia and circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Natural Plants)
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