Applications of Separation and Purification Techniques for Natural Products Derived from Plants Source

Dear Colleagues,

Herbal medicines have been known for centuries. The source of new structures of natural origin are plants that develop their defense systems, which are used by humans to prevent diseases caused by pathogens produced by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Today, natural products play a key role in the development and design of modern medicines.

An important aspect of drug development is the isolation, purification, and characterization of single plant-derived compounds. Complex plant extracts are also being studied to determine whether the complexity of the matrix affects the effects of natural drugs. These aspects, single compound vs. complex extract, are of interest from the point of view of co-extraction, interaction, and, finally, biological activity, since, in many cases, the activities detected were different and sometimes beneficial from a therapeutic point of view.

New chromatographic techniques, as well as extraction and separation methods, together with modern and sophisticated identification methodologies and equipment, are powerful tools for plant drug research.

In this Special Issue, we hope to introduce these opportunities as well as highlight new trends in the separation, purification, and identification of health-beneficial natural products as alternatives to synthetic drugs. We cordially invite you to contribute to this Special Issue and share with readers the latest important discoveries in this field.

Dr. Magdalena Bartnik
Guest Editor

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