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Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition

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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 13426

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Prof. Dr. Fátima Regina Mena Barreto Silva

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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
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Prof. Dr. Diana Marcela Aragon Novoa

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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
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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 (10 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 5768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Peanut Shell Extract and Luteolin on Gut Microbiota and High-Fat Diet-Induced Sequelae of the Inflammatory Continuum in a Metabolic Syndrome-like Murine Model

by Hemalata Deshmukh, Roberto Mendóza, Julianna M. Santos, Sathish Sivaprakasam, Moamen M. Elmassry, Jonathan M. Miranda, Patrick Q. Pham, Zarek Driver, Matthew Bender, Jannette M. Dufour and Chwan-Li Shen

Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2290; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142290 - 10 Jul 2025

Viewed by 306

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. MetS is associated with increased intestinal permeability and dysbiosis. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of peanut shell extract (PSE) and luteolin (LUT) on the kidneys, colon, and ileum in a MetS-like murine model. Methods: Thirty-six male Slc6a14^y/− mice were divided into four groups: low-fat diet (LFD), high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + 200 mg PSE/kg BW (PSE, p.o.), and HFD + 100 mg LUT/kg BW (LUT, p.o.) for 4 months. Outcome measures included glucose homeostasis, intestinal permeability, gut microbiome composition, and mRNA gene expression of mitochondrial homeostasis and inflammation/oxidative stress in the kidneys, colon, and ileum. Results: HFD resulted in glucose dysregulation with hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. PSE and LUT improved insulin tolerance and beta-cell function. PSE and LUT mitigated HFD-increased serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein concentration. Perturbations in the gut microbiome were associated with HFD, and PSE or LUT reversed some of these changes. Specifically, Phocaeicola vulgatus was depleted by HFD and reverted by PSE or LUT. Relative to the LFD group, the HFD group (1) upregulated mitochondrial fusion (MFN1, MFN2, OPA1), mitophagy (TLR4, PINK1, LC3B), and inflammation (NFκB, TNFα, IL6), and (2) downregulated mitochondrial fission (FIS1, DRP1), biosynthesis (PGC1α, NRF1, NRF2, TFAM), electron transport chain (complex I), and antioxidant enzyme (SOD1) in the kidneys, colon, and ileum. Conclusions: PSE and LUT reversed such HFD-induced changes in the aforementioned gene expression levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Hypoglycaemic Effects of the New Zealand Pine Bark Extract on Sucrose Uptake and Glycaemic Responses in Healthy Adults—A Single-Blind, Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial

by Wen Xin Janice Lim, Rachel A. Page, Cheryl S. Gammon and Paul J. Moughan

Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2277; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142277 - 9 Jul 2025

Viewed by 200

Abstract

Background: The New Zealand pine bark has been demonstrated in vitro to inhibit digestive enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion (alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 (DPP-4)). Objective: This study aims to investigate the inhibitory effects of the New Zealand pine bark on sucrose uptake and glycaemic responses in humans. Methods: A single-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover trial was carried out involving healthy adults (n = 40 (M: 12, F: 28), 30.1 ± 1.3 years, BMI 23.4 ± 0.5 kg/m², HbA1c 32.5 ± 0.6 mmol/mol, FBG 4.7 ± 0.1 mmol/L). A control (75 g of sucrose powder only), and two doses of the pine bark extract (50 and 400 mg) were provided on separate occasions, with 75 g of sucrose mixed in 250 mL of water. Blood samples were collected at −10, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min via a finger prick test. A linear mixed model for repeated measures (SPSS v30, IBM) was applied, and data presented as model-adjusted mean ± SEM. Results: Compared to control (247.5 ± 14.0 mmol/L⋅min), the iAUCglucose was significantly reduced with the 400 mg dose (211.8 ± 13.9 mmol/L⋅min, 14.4% reduction, and p = 0.037), but not with 50 mg dose (220.8 ± 14.2 mmol/L⋅min, 10.8% reduction, and p = 0.184). Compared to control (9.1 ± 0.2 mmol/L), glucose peak value was significantly reduced with the 50 mg dose (8.6 ± 0.2 mmol/L, 5.5% reduction, and p = 0.016) but not with the 400 mg dose (8.7 ± 0.2 mmol/L, 4.4% reduction, and p = 0.093). There were no statistically significant changes in postprandial insulin levels with the pine bark extract compared to control. Conclusions: The New Zealand pine bark extract attenuated sucrose uptake with improved glycaemic responses, and may therefore be useful as a hypoglycaemic adjunct to the diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 5243 KiB

Open AccessArticle

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 758

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 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

Open AccessArticle

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 1041

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 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

Open AccessArticle

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 1391

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 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

Open AccessArticle

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 1345

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), 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

Open AccessArticle

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 1729

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 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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41 pages, 1846 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Potential of Nutraceutical Supplementation in Counteracting Cancer Development and Progression: A Pathophysiological Perspective

by Carmen Altomare, Roberta Macrì, Maria Serra, Sara Ussia, Giovanna Ritorto, Jessica Maiuolo, Carolina Muscoli, Enzo Perri and Vincenzo Mollace

Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2354; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142354 - 18 Jul 2025

Abstract

Cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe, with a substantial increase in cases anticipated over the next few decades. Given the constraints and adverse effects associated with standard cancer therapies, the contribution of diet and nutraceuticals to cancer prevention and treatment is receiving increased scrutiny. A diet rich in plant-based foods, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and bioactive compounds, including the Mediterranean Diet, has been associated with reduced cancer risk and improved treatment outcomes. This review aims to explore the complex mechanisms of the MedDiet and nutraceuticals (polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids) in cancer prevention, to determine their potential as cancer treatment adjuvants. Promising results show that key compounds such as bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF), cynaropicrin, oleuropein, quercetin, resveratrol, and serotonin can modulate oxidative stress, inflammation, the tumor microenvironment, the cell cycle, and drug resistance. A significant observation is that many of these substances demonstrate dual dose-dependent activity; they function as antioxidants in healthy cells but induce pro-oxidant and pro-apoptotic effects in cancerous cells. Their ability to boost chemotherapy’s effectiveness and safety while lessening side effects and offering combined advantages is also explored. To summarize, this review suggests that the Mediterranean Diet and nutraceutical supplements may help prevent and manage cancer, but more research is needed to confirm their benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health—2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 1710 KiB

Open AccessReview

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 2116

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 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

Open AccessSystematic 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 3580

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 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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