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Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition
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Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 November 2025 | Viewed by 11655

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Fátima Regina Mena Barreto Silva

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Guest Editor
1. Laboratory of Hormones & Signal Transduction, Departament of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Campus Trindade, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, SC, Brazil
2. Laboratory of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Departament of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drug Research and Development Center (DRDC), Medical School, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Coronel Nunes de Melo, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
Interests: natural compounds; diabetes; infertility; cancer; central nervous system diseases; chronic diseases; medicinal plants; pain and analgesia
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Diana Marcela Aragon Novoa

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Departamento de Farmácia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Cra. 30 45-03, Bogotá 111321, DC, Colombia
Interests: drug delivery system; microparticles; nanoparticles; self-emulsifying delivery; pharmacokinetics; extracts standardization; bioactive compounds
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce a Special Issue titled "Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition" in Nutrients. This issue aims to explore the diverse impacts of plant extracts on human health, spanning from their nutritional value to their potential therapeutic effects/nutraceuticals.

We invite researchers, scientists, and experts to contribute their original research and reviews to this Special Issue. Submissions may include, but are not limited to, studies investigating the following:

  • The bioactive compounds present in plant extracts;
  • The mechanisms underlying the health effects of plant extracts;
  • The role of plant extracts in preventing or treating various health conditions;
  • The potential synergistic effects of combining different plant extracts;
  • The utilization of plant extracts in functional foods and nutraceuticals.

We encourage submissions that utilize diverse methodologies, including in vitro and in vivo studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses, to provide comprehensive insights into the effects of plant extracts on human health.

We look forward to receiving your contributions and to the collective advancement of knowledge in this important area of research.

Prof. Dr. Fátima Regina Mena Barreto Silva
Prof. Dr. Diana Marcela Aragon Novoa
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 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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. Nutrients 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 2900 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

  • plant extracts
  • human health
  • bioactive compounds
  • therapeutic effects
  • nutraceuticals

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 5243 KiB  
Article
Effects of Polyphenols from Oat and Oat Bran on Anti-Inflammatory Activity and Intestinal Barrier Function in Raw264.7 and Caco-2 Models
by Wen Duan, Bisheng Zheng, Tong Li and Rui Hai Liu
Nutrients 2025, 17(12), 1962; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17121962 - 9 Jun 2025
Viewed by 567
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Oats and oat bran are rich in dietary fiber, polyphenols and other phytochemicals. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the phytochemical content and established LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage inflammation and DSS-induced Caco-2 cell inflammation models to investigate the anti-inflammatory activities of oat [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Oats and oat bran are rich in dietary fiber, polyphenols and other phytochemicals. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the phytochemical content and established LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage inflammation and DSS-induced Caco-2 cell inflammation models to investigate the anti-inflammatory activities of oat and oat bran polyphenols and their molecular mechanisms. Results: The results showed that oat and oat bran polyphenols (free and bound polyphenols) enhanced phagocytosis, decreased the expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), reduced the production of NO and ROS, increased the mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced the inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) at the gene level in the RAW 264.7 macrophage inflammation model induced by LPS expression, thus demonstrating strong anti-inflammatory activity. In Caco-2 cells, oat and oat bran polyphenols pretreatment attenuated the DSS-induced decrease in trans-epithelial electron resistance value, increased tight junction protein expression, and reduced cell permeability in Caco-2 cell monolayers, which in turn reduced inflammatory damage in the organism. Conclusions: In summary, the present study not only reveals the mechanism by which oat and oat bran polyphenols inhibit macrophage inflammation and impairment of intestinal barrier function at defined concentration in vitro, but also highlights potential for oat bran as a functional food. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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24 pages, 20626 KiB  
Article
The Antioxidant and Chemopreventive Activity of a Nutraceutical Derived from Brassicaceae Seed Extracts for Colorectal Cancer
by Ana Guzmán-Carrasco, Cristina Mesas, Kevin Doello, Jesús M. Porres, Alejandro García-Beltrán, Rosario Martínez, Francisco Bermúdez, Mercedes Peña, Consolación Melguizo and Jose Prados
Nutrients 2025, 17(8), 1358; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081358 - 16 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 950
Abstract
Background. Worldwide, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Recent studies establish a relationship between natural compounds from plants with the prevention and treatment of cancer. Specifically, glucosinolates with antitumoral capacity and [...] Read more.
Background. Worldwide, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Recent studies establish a relationship between natural compounds from plants with the prevention and treatment of cancer. Specifically, glucosinolates with antitumoral capacity and polyphenols with the ability to scavenge free radicals that can cause cell damage have been identified in the Brassicaceae family. Objectives. Based on the previously mentioned factors, this study aimed to develop a nutraceutical made with extracts from different Brassicaceae seeds and study its antioxidant and antiproliferative action in vitro and in vivo using the AOM/DSS model in CC57BL6J mice. Results. Extract from the seeds of Eruca sativa and Sinapis alba showed the highest antioxidant capacity among the different species studied and were selected for nutraceutical formulation, which was potentially absorbable (73%) after an in vitro digestion process. In total, thirty compounds were identified in the nutraceutical that could be responsible for its antioxidant and tumoral prevention capacity. The intake of nutraceutical was a successful intervention to prevent the development of polyps by 31.6% and their size by 53.9%. When the nutritional intervention was used in combination with a physical exercise protocol, these parameters dropped to 52.3% and 62.6%, respectively. Conclusions. These findings suggest that the consumption of a diet rich in bioactive compounds from Brassica species, in combination with physical activity, is a valuable prevention strategy for colorectal cancer. However, more research is required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these interventions in clinical settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 1340 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Role of Dark Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) Consumption on Cognitive Function, Neuropeptides, and Circadian Rhythm in Obesity: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial
by Shirley Arbizu, Susanne U. Mertens-Talcott, Stephen Talcott, Aaron Riviere, Steven E. Riechman and Giuliana D. Noratto
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050784 - 24 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1222
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Obesity is linked to a higher risk of cognitive impairment. The objective of this single blind randomized trial was to evaluate the impact of dark sweet cherry (DSC) intake on cognitive function in obese adults. Methods: Participants (body mass index (BMI): 30–40 [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Obesity is linked to a higher risk of cognitive impairment. The objective of this single blind randomized trial was to evaluate the impact of dark sweet cherry (DSC) intake on cognitive function in obese adults. Methods: Participants (body mass index (BMI): 30–40 kg/m2, >18 years, without chronic diseases and/or antibiotic use) consumed 200 mL of DSC drink with 3 g of cherry powder (n = 19) or an isocaloric placebo drink (n = 21) twice daily for 30 days. Cognitive function was assessed at Day 1 (D1) and Day 30 (D30) using standardized cognitive tests and the NeuroTracker (NT) 3D training program. Blood biomarkers related to cognitive health (neurotensin, substance p, and oxytocin) and circadian rhythm (melatonin and cortisol) were assessed at D1 and D30 using a Luminex multiplex bead-based immunoassay. Results: DSC supplementation significantly improved working memory and concentration, as indicated by higher scores in the digit span forward (DSF, p = 0.006) and backward (DSB, p = 0.01) tests. However, processing speed, sustained attention, and visual spatial skills, assessed through the trail making (TMT) and digit symbol substitution (DSST) tests, as well as visual cognitive performance (VCP) evaluated by the NT program, showed no significant differences between groups. Neurotensin, associated with cognitive deficits, increased in both cherry and placebo groups but was significant only in the placebo group (p = 0.007). Similarly, melatonin increased in both groups, reaching significance only in the placebo group (p = 0.02), and it correlated positively with IFNγ, suggesting a compensatory response to inflammation. Conclusions: These findings suggest DSC supplementation may enhance specific cognitive functions in obese adults. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 2475 KiB  
Article
Potential Effect of Cinnamaldehyde on Insulin Resistance Is Mediated by Glucose and Lipid Homeostasis
by Marisa Jadna Silva Frederico, Paola Miranda Sulis, Landerson Lopes Pereira, Diana Rey, Marcela Aragón and Fátima Regina Mena Barreto Silva
Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020297 - 15 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1286
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic syndrome that has grown globally to become a significant public health challenge. Hypothesizing that the plasma membrane protein, transient receptor potential ankyrin-1, is a pivotal target in insulin resistance, we investigated the mechanism of action of cinnamaldehyde (CIN), [...] Read more.
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic syndrome that has grown globally to become a significant public health challenge. Hypothesizing that the plasma membrane protein, transient receptor potential ankyrin-1, is a pivotal target in insulin resistance, we investigated the mechanism of action of cinnamaldehyde (CIN), an electrophilic TRPA1 agonist, in skeletal muscle, a primary insulin target. Specifically, we evaluated the effect of CIN on insulin resistance, hepatic glycogen accumulation and muscle and adipose tissue glucose uptake. Furthermore, the in vitro role of CIN in glucose uptake and intracellular signaling was determined in insulin-resistant rats whose calcium influx was analyzed. Moreover, the serum lipid profile was assessed following short-term CIN treatment in rats, and lipid tolerance was analyzed. The effects of CIN on insulin resistance were mediated by TRPA1, with downstream signaling involving the activation of PI3-K, MAPK, PKC, as well as extracellular calcium and calcium release from intracellular stores. Additionally, cytoskeleton integrity was required for the complete action of CIN on glucose uptake in muscle. CIN also ameliorated the serum lipid profile and improved triglyceride tolerance following acute vivo exposure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 1287 KiB  
Article
Efficacy and Satisfaction of a Chemically Characterized Malva sylvestris L. Extract-Based Food Supplement for Functional Constipation in Healthy Consumers: Preliminary Results of a Questionnaire-Based Survey
by Lorenza Francesca De Lellis, Hammad Ullah, Maria Vittoria Morone, Daniele Giuseppe Buccato, Alessandra Baldi, Alessandro Di Minno, Danaé S. Larsen, Roberto Sacchi and Maria Daglia
Nutrients 2025, 17(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17010077 - 28 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1676
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Malva sylvestris L. is rich in mucilage and is traditionally used for the management of numerous ailments including gastrointestinal disorders. Functional constipation (FC) is a gastrointestinal condition characterized by defecation anomalies such as infrequent stools, difficulty in stool passage, or both in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Malva sylvestris L. is rich in mucilage and is traditionally used for the management of numerous ailments including gastrointestinal disorders. Functional constipation (FC) is a gastrointestinal condition characterized by defecation anomalies such as infrequent stools, difficulty in stool passage, or both in the absence of pathological abnormalities. FC can be reduced through lifestyle factors and dietary intervention. This consumer-based survey aimed to assess the efficacy of a M. sylvestris extract-based food supplement on the improvement of FC. Methods: Healthy participants (n = 56), enrolled in a consumer-based survey, took a food supplement containing a chemically characterized M. sylvestris extract at a dose of 20 mL/day (containing 750 mg of M. sylvestris extract rich in food fiber and polyphenols) for 20 days on the advice of their pharmacist. The study evaluated bowel movement frequency (intestinal diary), stool consistency (Bristol Stool Form Scale, BSFS), and abdominal pain (Visual Analogue Scale, VAS), at baseline (T0), after 10 days (T1), and after 20 days (T2). Results: A significant increase in bowel movement frequency and stool consistency (p < 0.001) with a significant decrease in abdominal pain (p < 0.001) was observed. Additionally, this food supplement was well-tolerated as no adverse effects were reported by the enrolled subjects. Conclusion: M. sylvestris-based food supplement showed promising effectiveness and satisfaction in improving FC in healthy subjects, however, randomized clinical studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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Review

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25 pages, 1710 KiB  
Review
A Narrative Review on Plant Extracts for Metabolic Syndrome: Efficacy, Safety, and Technological Advances
by Hammad Ullah, Marco Dacrema, Daniele Giuseppe Buccato, Marwa A. A. Fayed, Lorenza Francesca De Lellis, Maria Vittoria Morone, Alessandro Di Minno, Alessandra Baldi and Maria Daglia
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050877 - 28 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1911
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome, a global health concern, is characterized by visceral obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Current therapeutic options are limited by their varying efficacy and significantly adverse side effects, fueling interest in natural products, particularly plant extracts, as potential preventive [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome, a global health concern, is characterized by visceral obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Current therapeutic options are limited by their varying efficacy and significantly adverse side effects, fueling interest in natural products, particularly plant extracts, as potential preventive interventions for high-risk individuals. This review examines the role of plant extracts in mitigating metabolic syndrome risk factors, addressing safety concerns and exploring associated technological advancements. The literature indicates that plant extracts hold promise for addressing the pathophysiology of metabolic dysfunction. However, challenges such as safety concerns, a lack of standardized regulation, and potential drug–plant interactions currently limit their clinical application. Rigorous, long-term clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy and safety of plant extracts before they can be established as a preventive strategy for managing metabolic syndrome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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Other

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20 pages, 981 KiB  
Systematic Review
Effectiveness of Herbal Medicines with Anti-Inflammatory, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Properties in Improving Oral Health and Treating Gingivitis and Periodontitis: A Systematic Review
by Giuseppina Malcangi, Angelo Michele Inchingolo, Lucia Casamassima, Irma Trilli, Laura Ferrante, Francesco Inchingolo, Andrea Palermo, Alessio Danilo Inchingolo and Gianna Dipalma
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 762; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050762 - 21 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3159
Abstract
Objectives: This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of natural extracts with anti-inflammatory properties for improving oral health, particularly in managing gingivitis and periodontal disease (PD). With PD being a major global health issue, exacerbated by microbial dysbiosis and oxidative stress, the integration of [...] Read more.
Objectives: This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of natural extracts with anti-inflammatory properties for improving oral health, particularly in managing gingivitis and periodontal disease (PD). With PD being a major global health issue, exacerbated by microbial dysbiosis and oxidative stress, the integration of phytochemicals and herbal formulations into periodontal therapy offers a promising avenue for adjunctive treatments. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and registered under the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (ID: 641944). Databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched between 18–24 December 2024, using Boolean keywords combining terms such as “herbal medicine”, “plant extracts”, “anti-inflammatory”, and “periodontal therapy”. Studies involving animal models, in vitro data, or non-peer-reviewed articles were excluded. Results: Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria. Polyherbal formulations and single-component extracts (e.g., Camellia sinensis, Punica granatum, Zingiber officinale, and Rosmarinus officinalis) demonstrated comparable efficacy to conventional agents like chlorhexidine (CHX). Polyherbal rinses, camellia sinensis gels, and extracts like Punica granatum reduced inflammation, improved gingival health, and showed antimicrobial properties, offering effective natural alternatives. Conclusions: Natural products, including single extracts and polyherbal formulations, provide effective and safe alternatives for managing gingivitis and PD. Their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties support their adjunctive role alongside with scaling and root planning therapy (SRP) in periodontal therapy. However, further large-scale, long-term studies are needed to standardize formulations and establish optimal protocols. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)
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