Search Results (36)

Objectives: The aim of this work was to determine the phenolic composition of sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua L., Asteraceae) from controlled cultivation in Serbia and to assess the potential antioxidant effects and cytotoxicity. Methods: High-performance liquid chromatography was used to determine the phenolic composition of Artemisia annua ethanolic extract. The antioxidant activity was studied using in vitro tests of inhibition of the neutralization of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl (OH), and nitroso (NO) radicals, as well as the process of inhibiting lipid peroxidation and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The cytotoxicity was evaluated by the effect on three cell lines (the rat pancreatic insulinoma cell line (Rin-5F), the rat hepatoma cell line (H4IIE), and human hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep G2)) using the MTT test of viability. Results: Ethanol extract showed the highest potency in inhibiting the DPPH radical, and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) was 5.17 μg/mL. Chlorogenic acid was the dominant phenolic compound with an amount of 651 μg/g of dry extract. The results of the MTT viability test showed that the extract has the potential to inhibit the growth of the Rin-5F and Hep G2 cell lines, while no growth inhibition was observed on the H4IIE cell line. Conclusions: Undoubtedly, Artemisia annua is a powerful plant and a rich source of phenolic compounds. Inhibitory activity on causes of oxidative stress shows that the plant has a good antioxidant effect. Also, the anticancer activity shown through the inhibition of cell growth is not negligible. Full article

Fruit spirits have roots in traditions across Eastern and Central Europe. Homemade/unrecorded spirits are typically produced under inconsistent conditions, leading to inconsistent product quality. From the safety aspect, great concentration variability of exclusively harmful substances (methanol and acetaldehyde) and compounds with either favorable or hazardous properties (ethyl acetate and higher alcohols), depending on their amount, must be considered. An option to ensure their safety could be a dephlegmator, a central component in column distillation systems. To determine whether such an approach in small-scale spirit production lessens the health risks from harmful volatile compounds, 35 fruit spirits were investigated using HSS-GC-FID. Dephlegmator usage was associated with lower median methanol concentrations (1878 vs. 3723 mg/L p.a.) and a narrower concentration span. The remaining analytes showed no significant reduction in median level; however, the ranges have narrowed. A risk assessment (margin of exposure approach) revealed that dephlegmator usage increased the proportion of methanol-safe samples. The risk of acetaldehyde was equivalent or somewhat greater in the dephlegmator spirit group, suggesting challenges for optimizing the head cut during distillation. Ethyl acetate and higher alcohols did not pose a risk regardless of dephlegmator use. These findings support dephlegmator usage as a useful but insufficient intervention in home/small-scale spirit production to obtain safer products of consistent quality. Full article

The edible mushroom Coprinus comatus has a long history of use in metabolic diseases, which is increasingly documented by modern research. Due to its favorable nutritional composition, it was assumed that this mushroom could accelerate tissue recovery after acutely induced damage with subsequent disturbance of primarily carbohydrate metabolism. To test this hypothesis, the alloxan diabetes model was used, where experimental animals’ change in body weight and biochemical and histological indicators of recovery were monitored. Before performing the in vivo part, HPLC analysis of the C. comatus extract was carried out with subsequent in silico and in vitro tests. Comparing the animals treated with the mushroom in three different doses, no significant change in body weight was observed. Still, the change was also noticed in the lipid status and glycemia, with a dose-dependent beneficial effect. Morphometric analysis of pancreatic tissue stained by immuno-histochemical methods showed that long-term treatment with C. comatus leads to increased numerical density, nuclear volume, and absolute number of beta cells of the islets of Langerhans, which suffered severe damage after alloxan administration. Overall, C. comatus may contribute to faster tissue recovery after acute diabetic-relevant damage with chronic consequences. Full article

Peppers (Capsicum spp.) represent not only a plant with a demonstrated history of diverse medicinal applications but also a species having non-neglectable adverse effects potential. “Chili burn” or Hunan hand syndrome represents a type of contact dermatitis rarely appearing after using chili peppers. Here, a case of “chili burn” with no specific treatments or sequelae is presented. A young woman presented with contact dermatitis after first- and second-time dermal exposure to a chili pepper. A strong burning sensation appeared shortly after on the hands and around the mouth after exposure to the plant. The patient applied non-specific measures (hand washing with mild soap and rinsing the affected areas with acidic solutions) with minor improvement; finally, the “chili burn” resolved itself. No other medicines were applied, and no consequences were recorded. Although rare, the use of chili pepper has the potential to cause contact dermatitis. The awareness of medical professionals of this entity should provide adequate diagnosis and treatment for patients. Full article

Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3-FAs) represent a group of essential nutrients, but modern diets often do not allow for a balanced ratio between the intakes of ω-6-FA and ω-3-FA, which is vital for health. ω-3-FA can be found primarily in algae and fish, while the intake of ω-3-FA dietary supplements can be seen as an efficient way of providing nutrients important for many physiological functions. Background/Objectives: The aim of this research was to investigate the use of ω-3-FA-rich food and supplements, as well as the knowledge and attitudes on these nutrients among residents of the central Balkans—the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Srpska. Methods: The research was performed as a prospective, cross-section, online survey. Results: A total of 895 responses were collected, with relatively high usage of ω-3-FA supplements (34.2%). It was found that the respondents use these supplements due to inadequate dietary intake, but also in therapy or prevention of certain diseases and conditions. Users take the supplements on a regular basis, although for short periods of time. The respondents reported the dietary intake of food rich in ω-3-FA. It was found that more than half of parents give these supplements to their children, with similar purposes, although more frequently and for longer periods of time. The use of ω-3-FA via supplements in pregnant and breastfeeding women is also present. Conclusions: The residents of the investigated territory seem to have an awareness of the importance of ω-3-FA use, with its consumption being registered in both the general population and specific subpopulations. Future steps would include further promotion and education on the given topic. Full article

Cotton lavender (Santolina chamaecyparissus L., Asteraceae) is a widespread medicinal and ornamental plant. This study aimed to evaluate the preliminary and detailed chemical composition as well as the biological activity of ethanolic extract. As part of the preliminary characterization, the content of total phenolics and flavonoids was determined, while the detailed characterization was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Antioxidant activity was evaluated through four different tests: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl (OH^•), and nitroso (NO^•) radicals, and lipid peroxidation (LP), as well as antihyperglycemic potential through the α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays. Additionally, in silico molecular modeling was employed to link the chemical composition to the antihyperglycemic potential. Chemical characterization showed that cotton lavender is a valuable source of phenolic compounds, with ferulic and p-coumaric acids being the most abundant. Moreover, the antihyperglycemic and antioxidant potential of the ethanolic extract was demonstrated in vitro. The potential mechanism of the antihyperglycemic effect is the inhibition of the enzyme α-glucosidase, which was further investigated in silico using molecular modeling methods. This analysis suggested rutin and quercetin as compounds responsible for anti-α-glucosidase activity. Cotton lavender ethanolic extracts, as a valuable source of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, possess moderate antioxidant effects and notable antihyperglycemic activity. According to in vitro and in silico investigations, it could be a valuable herbal supplement to complement diabetes treatment in medicinal therapy. Full article

In this study, Cu-doped TiO₂ combined with natural zeolite (ZT) was synthesized and applied as a fixed powder layer on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) tablets. The material’s morphology, structural, and chemical properties were characterized using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by assessing the neutralization of hydroxyl radicals and iron (III) ions. For the first time, tablets with Cu-TiO₂ and ZT deposited on PMMA as the carrier were investigated for removing two dyes, methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB), from water under simulated solar (SS) and UVC irradiation. Under SS irradiation, the Cu-TiO₂/PMMA and Cu-TiO₂/ZT/PMMA tablets achieved about 21% degradation of MB after 240 min. This result is particularly noteworthy because SS radiation provides lower energy compared with UVC, making the process more economically efficient. Furthermore, the photocatalysts are immobilized on a stable carrier, which enhances the method’s cost-effectiveness by reducing material loss and simplifying recovery. In the presence of ZT/PMMA tablets, 69% of MB was removed by adsorption after 240 min. Additionally, we explored the mechanism of degradation, revealing that the enhanced generation of hydroxyl radicals plays a pivotal role in the effective degradation of MB. At the same time, photogenerated holes contribute to the removal of MO. The overall results suggest that the tablets obtained are a promising solution for water purification due to their effectiveness, simplicity, and low processing cost. Full article

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum, Hypericaceae) is the most well-known species in the genus Hypericum, which comprises several hundred species. This study investigates the biological and phytochemical potential of the under-researched Hypericum species, H. hirsutum, H. barbatum, and H. rochelii. A high level of similarity between the chemical profiles of H. hirsutum and H. barbatum and the official source of the herbal drug (H. perforatum) was shown, but a higher content of quercetin and rutin was also found in all three evaluated species (116–230 µg/g dry herb). The highest amount of phenolics (195 mg GAE/g) was recorded in H. hirsutum extract, while the highest amount of flavonoids (47 mg QE/g) was recorded in H. barbatum extract. The evaluated species were excellent scavengers of DPPH, OH, and NO radicals, as well as strong ferric ion reducers in the FRAP test. Prominent monoamine oxidase A and α-glucosidase inhibition was observed, compared to modest inhibition of monoamine oxidase B, α-amylase, and acetylcholinesterase. High activity against Gram-positive MRSA S. aureus was demonstrated for the tested species, with MIC/MBC values recorded at 12.5 µg/mL. Antifungal activity against Candida strains was not observed. The obtained results emphasize the need for further investigation of species of the genus Hypericum to discover potentially new sources of biologically active compounds. Full article

Chemometric evaluation of potentially harmful volatile compound and toxic metal(loid) distribution patterns in fruit spirits relating to distinct fruit classes most commonly used in spirit production highlighted the potential of several volatiles as candidates for differentiation markers while dismissing toxic metal(loid)s. Pome fruit and grape pomace spirits were mostly characterized by a lower abundance of n-propanol, methanol, ethyl acetate and acetaldehyde, while stone fruit spirits contained lower amounts of isoamyl alcohol and isobutanol. Chemometric analysis of the fruit spirit composition of aromatics identified additional potential markers characteristic for certain fruits—benzoic acid ethyl ester, benzyl alcohol, benzaldehyde, butanoic acid 3-methyl-ethyl ester, butanoic acid 2-methyl-ethyl ester and furfural. This study explored the variability in the risk potential of the investigated spirits, considering that some chemicals known to be detected in spirits are potent health hazards. Ethyl carbamate in combination with acetaldehyde showed a higher potential risk in stone fruit spirits, methanol in stone and pome fruit spirits and acetaldehyde in grape pomace spirits. It is of great interest to evaluate to what extent consumers’ preference for spirits of distinct fruit types affects health risks. Consumers of stone fruit spirits are potentially at higher risk than those consuming pome fruit or grape pomace spirits. Full article

Bovine mastitis, as a significant and prevalent health problem in dairy herds, is primarily attributed to bacterial infections. Yeasts, although considered relatively rare causative agents, have also been associated with mastitis in dairy cattle. Current mastitis treatment predominantly relies on antibiotics, with limited emphasis on antifungal treatment. However, mycotic mastitis is challenging to treat, since these fungi are often resistant to antibiotics and may even utilize them for energy. In the current research, the in vivo antimicrobial activity of the essential oil-based formulation (Phyto-Bomat), as a possible alternative mastitis treatment associated with yeasts, was studied. This study involved a total of 68 animals from two dairy farms with diagnosed mastitis, and three treatment groups were established: conventional antibiotic treatment, Phyto-Bomat treatment, and the combination of both. The findings suggest significant variations in the presence of Candida samples based on the treatment administered, and the most significant difference was noted in cows treated with the combination (Phyto-Bomat and antibiotics). Yet, it is important to note that the results reveal that, regardless of the treatment type, there are statistically significant differences in the presence of Candida samples across the examined time points. These results aim to provide valuable insights into the potential of EOs as an alternative therapy in bovine mastitis, specifically targeting yeasts. Such findings could offer new strategies in the mycotic mastitis control and reducing the occurrence of secondary infections following antibiotic treatment. Full article

The leaves of industrial hemp, which have long been considered as a waste product, have been proven to contain numerous compounds that possess potential biological activity. One of the most interesting groups of compounds present are polyphenolic compounds, which, due to their specific structure, have a pronounced antioxidant and antihyperglycemic potential. This study aimed to detect biological activity, including antioxidant and antihyperglycemic potential, of water and water–alcoholic extracts of five commercially available hemp teas, followed by phytochemical profiling. Hemp aqueous and ethanolic extracts demonstrate potent antioxidant properties. Ethanol extracts are better scavengers of DPPH• and OH•, while aqueous extracts neutralize NO• better. Both types of extracts exhibit antioxidant potential in the catalase test and moderate XOD inhibition. Furthermore, aqueous extracts are potent α-amylase inhibitors, while ethanolic extracts demonstrate stronger anti-α-glucosidase activity, suggesting therapeutic potential for chronic diseases like insulin resistance or diabetes. Further detailed chemical characterization and in vivo studies are needed to validate these findings. Full article

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a phenolic compound with antiviral properties, often encountered in dietary supplements and herbal drugs. Data on the pharmacokinetics of RA are lacking in cases of the chronic use of supplements containing this compound, and only limited data on the metabolism and distribution of RA are available. The aim of the study was to investigate the plasma levels of RA after 12 weeks of use and determine potential interactions of RA and selected antiretroviral drugs. Patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus took a supplement containing RA for 12 weeks, after which the RA concentrations in the plasma samples were analyzed. A detailed in silico analysis was conducted in order to elucidate the potential interactions between RA and the drugs efavirenz, darunavir and raltegravir. It was found that RA can be detected in patients’ plasma samples, mainly in the form of sulphoglucuronide. The potential interactions are suggested on the level of liver metabolizing enzymes and efflux P-glycoprotein, with RA competing with antiretroviral drugs as a substrate in metabolism and distribution systems. The present study suggests that the simultaneous use of RA and antiretroviral therapy (containing efavirenz, darunavir or raltegravir) may affect the plasma levels of RA after prolonged supplementation. Full article

Hemp seed oil, obtained via the cold pressing of hemp seeds, is widely represented on the market. The objective of this study was to evaluate the fatty acid (FA) composition of hemp seed oil by means of nutritional quality indices. The FA profiles (37 FA) of 20 hemp seed oils marketed in several European countries were obtained using GC-FID and used for the calculation of lipid quality indices. As expected, considering the same plant source, FA profiles and the corresponding quality indices showed great similarity. Polyunsaturated to saturated FA ratio (PUFA/SFA) (6.8 ± 0.5) is used to assess the impact of diet on cardiovascular health (CVH) as PUFA can depress low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and lower serum cholesterol levels, as opposed to SFA. Therefore, the higher PUFA/SFA ratio, the more positive the effect. Compared with this ratio, the hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic index (HH) (12.7 ± 0.8) may more accurately reflect the effect of FA composition on CVH. The index of atherogenicity (IA) (0.08 ± 0.005) is characterized by the main classes of SFA (which are pro-atherogenic, with the exception of C18:0) and unsaturated FA (which are anti-atherogenic). Therefore, foods with a lower IA can reduce the levels of total cholesterol and LDL- C in blood plasma. The index of thrombogenicity (IT) (0.11 ± 0.01) indicates the tendency of FA to form clots in blood vessels and provides the relationship between the pro-thrombogenic FA (C12:0, C14:0 and C16:0) and the anti-thrombogenic FA (MUFA, omega-3 and omega-6 FA). Thus, foods with a lower IT are beneficial for CVH. The unsaturation index (UI) (183.8 ± 5.1) represents the degree of unsaturation in lipids. Hemp oil showed advantages over sunflower and olive oils regarding PUFA/SFA (5.1 and 0.5, respectively) and IT (0.23 and 0.24), along with comparable IA (0.08 and 0.14), and substantially higher HH than olive oil (6.8). High UI indicates that unsaturated fatty acids abundantly present in hemp oil could easily undergo thermal degradation. Quality indices should be regarded as a valuable foundation for the valorization of hemp seed oil in nutritional recommendations. Full article

Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) is an important legume that is also known as a rich source of isoflavones, which are compounds with mild estrogenic activity. Therefore, this plant is often used as a raw material in the production of dietary supplements recommended in menopause. Many factors can influence isoflavone content, but those genetically related are considered to be the most important. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile of different plant parts of 30 red clover genotypes grouped according to ploidy and country of seed origin by analyzing the content of dominant isoflavones, total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity. It was found that there are significant differences in the examined traits among plant parts. Red clover leaves had the highest total isoflavone content, with biochanin A as the dominant compound, while flower extracts had the highest TPC and antioxidant activity. Diploid and tetraploid genotypes were significantly different concerning the content of daidzein, genistein, formononetin and TPC with higher quantities in tetraploid samples. On the other hand, seed origin was not a useful separating factor for the analyzed samples. The results of this research indicate that ploidy, as a previously poorly studied factor, could influence isoflavone content in red clover. Full article