Search Results (49)

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is a warm-season fiber crop with high biomass potential, but breeding is limited by susceptibility to root-knot nematodes and ploidy barriers that hinder hybridization with resistant tetraploid relatives such as H. acetosella and H. sabdariffa. This study evaluated induced polyploid kenaf for morphological, biomass, and stomatal traits to assess its suitability as bridge germplasm. Tetraploids were generated from diploid ‘Whitten’ and ‘H.C. 584’ using colchicine, and triploids were produced in ‘H.C. 584’ by crossing diploid and tetraploid plants. Five genotypes were propagated from cuttings and evaluated under greenhouse conditions for 60 d. Tetraploid plants were shorter than their diploid counterparts in both genotypes, with ‘Whitten’ decreasing 12% and ‘H.C. 584’ 18%. Leaf width increased in tetraploids, whereas stem diameter and leaf length were unaffected by ploidy. Stalk dry weight did not differ significantly among ploidy levels within a genotype, indicating that reduced plant height did not reduce early stalk biomass accumulation. Stomatal length and width increased markedly with ploidy, with the largest stomata observed in tetraploids. These results support induced tetraploid kenaf as promising germplasm for overcoming ploidy barriers in breeding. Full article

The study developed and characterized a natural beverage formulated from hibiscus extract (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), pineapple (Ananas comosus L.), and cacao mucilage (Theobroma cacao L.), with the aim of valorizing agricultural by-products and providing a natural, healthy, and sustainable alternative. A completely randomized design with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement was used. Six beverage formulations were prepared by combining three levels of Hibiscus extract–pineapple proportion (Factor A) with two levels of cacao mucilage (Factor B), resulting in six treatments that were evaluated in triplicate for their physicochemical, sensory, and microbiological properties. The analyses showed significant variations in °Brix (14.90–22.40), density (1.087–1.119 g/mL), and pH (2.71–3.31), indicating that cacao mucilage increased soluble solids retention and colloidal stability without altering acidity. In the sensory evaluation, treatment T1 (30% hibiscus extract, 10% pineapple, and 40% cacao mucilage) achieved the highest acceptance due to its balanced color, flavor, and texture. Microbiological analyses confirmed that the beverage complied with the limits established by the Ecuadorian standard NTE INEN 2337:2008 for non-carbonated fruit beverages. Overall, cacao mucilage proved to be an effective natural stabilizer that enhances the physicochemical and sensory quality of tropical beverages, representing an innovative strategy for the sustainable valorization of cacao by-products in the food industry. Full article

Background: Antimicrobial resistance is one of the major challenges in healthcare, leading to more severe infections, higher mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Therefore, exploring new alternatives, such as plant extracts with antimicrobial properties helps to reduce bacterial resistance. Artemisia annua L., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., and Paronychia argentea Lam. are traditionally used for their biological properties, including antimicrobial activity. However, scientific evidence regarding their antibacterial effects against clinically important bacteria remains limited. Methods: Extracts were obtained from the mentioned plants and phytochemically characterized by GC/MS. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of fatty acids, phenolic compounds, aliphatic compounds, and terpenoids. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the diffusion method with a modified Kirby-Bauer technique and the microdilution method employing the massive plate sealing drop approach. Results: All extracts exhibited bacterial inhibition, with H. sabdariffa L. showing the strongest activity against E. coli (256 mg/mL), K. pneumoniae (256 mg/mL), P. aeruginosa (128 mg/mL), Salmonella sp. (128 mg/mL), and S. aureus (64 mg/mL). Conclusions: Hydroethanolic extracts of A. annua L., H. sabdariffa L., and P. argentea Lam. exhibit antibacterial activity against clinically relevant bacteria and represent promising candidates for future preclinical studies. Full article

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is essential for renal function; however, it is toxic at high concentrations. H₂S is increased during reductive stress (RS). Increased antioxidant capacity and reduced/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) characterize a rat model of RS associated with chronic consumption of 6% Hibiscus sabdariffa Linnaeus (HSL). Here, we evaluate if chronic consumption of an infusion of HSL causes kidney damage associated with an increase in H₂S. Twenty-one Wistar rats were divided into three groups. Group 1: rats received plain tap water ad libitum (G1); Group 2: rats received an ad libitum infusion of 6% HSL for one month (G2); and Group 3: rats consumed a 6% HSL infusion for one month and were then given natural water for another month (G3). We evaluated renal vasodilatation, cystathionine–β–synthase (CBS), cystathionine–γ–lyase (CSE), 3–mercaptopyruvate-sulfur-transferase (3–MST), γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GCLC), Nrf2, total OXPHOS, H₂S concentration, GSH/GSSG and oxidized/reduced thiols in the kidney. Renal vasodilatation and total OXPHOS in complex IV and I and oxidized/reduced thiols were decreased (p ≤ 0.01) but H₂S, CBS, SCE, GCLC, and NrF2 expression and GSH/GSSG were increased (p ≤ 0.04). The HSL infusion provided cysteine that was metabolized by CBS and CSE, elevating chronic H₂S and favoring renal damage. Full article

The clean-label trend demands stable natural colorants. H. sabdariffa L. calyces is a sustainable anthocyanin source; however, the effects of dehydration and food-grade extraction on pigment recovery and performance remain unclear. Fresh and dehydrated calyces were physicochemically characterized, and dehydrated material with aqueous and hydroalcoholic food-grade solvents was used for extraction. Extraction efficiency was evaluated through total phenolic compound (TPC) content and anthocyanin characterization by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS. The aqueous extract with the highest anthocyanin concentration was selected for the syrup formulation containing 5–35% sucrose. The physicochemical stability of the formulations was monitored during refrigerated storage (4 °C/30 days) and subsequently tested in food matrices with different pH values. Dehydration calyces reduced moisture content (11.61%) and water activity (a_w = 0.56), indicating improved storage stability. The anthocyanin concentration was highest in the 5% sucrose syrup (495.12 ± 40.66 mg mv-3,5-glc·100 g⁻¹), with a 12.71% loss over 30 days. Application in food matrices demonstrated a pH-dependent color response, with correlations between hue angle (h°, r = 0.86) and color saturation (C*, r = −0.77).These results demonstrate that hibiscus calyx syrups are promising natural colorants and bioactive ingredients, particularly for acidic food systems, offering stability. Full article

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) is a versatile fiber crop known for rapid growth and high biomass productivity that is often cultivated in warm-season regions where root-knot nematodes (RKNs) are prevalent. Here, we compared eight kenaf genotypes with Hibiscus acetosella and Hibiscus sabdariffa to evaluate resistance versus susceptibility to five RKN (Meloidogyne spp.) populations in two replicated greenhouse trials. The nematode panel comprised globally dominant species (M. incognita races 2 and 4, M. javanica) and emerging high-impact threats in warm-season systems (M. floridensis and M. enterolobii), which overlap geographically with current and potential kenaf production. Reproduction and galling were quantified using eggs per system, eggs per gram of root, egg masses, gall index, and reproduction factor, and genotypic differences were assessed by nonparametric rank-based tests at α = 0.05. Across nematode species, H. acetosella and H. sabdariffa showed minimal reproduction and galling, whereas most kenaf genotypes were highly susceptible. Susceptibility was most pronounced to M. enterolobii and M. floridensis, and several kenaf lines (‘Whitten’, ‘G 14’, ‘G 32’, ‘Yue 74-3’) had the highest egg counts and near-maximal egg masses and galling. M. incognita race 2 and race 4 produced strong contrasts, with H. acetosella and H. sabdariffa remaining resistant while multiple kenaf lines exhibited heavy reproduction and severe galling. M. javanica followed a similar pattern, with ‘G 32’, ‘Yue 74-3’, ‘Whitten’, ‘G 14’, and ‘74200 I4’ being highly susceptible. These results identify H. acetosella ‘PI 500707’ and H. sabdariffa ‘X17’ as robust donors of RKN resistance and highlight the susceptibility of cultivated kenaf genotypes, underscoring urgent breeding and integrated management needs for kenaf in warm-season production regions. Full article

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is a plant rich in bioactive constituents, serving as a unique material for the food and beverage industry and therapeutic applications. Despite its significant utility, few studies have focused on the molecular breeding of the plant. Chloroplasts are organelles in plant cells with independent genetic information, making them ideal for investigating plant phylogeny and genetic evolution. In this study, the roselle breeding material ‘Zhe Xiao Luo 1’ was selected to assemble and analyze the entire chloroplast genome using the Illumina NovaSeq X Plus platform. The phylogenetic relationships between roselle and other species within Malvaceae family, particularly within the genus Hibiscus, were clarified. The results showed that the complete chloroplast genome of roselle was 162,428 bp in length, with nucleotide proportions of 31.14% (A), 18.73% (C), 18.01% (G), 32.12% (T), and 36.74% (GC). It exhibited a typical tetrad structure consisting of four segments: the large single copy (LSC) region (90,327 bp), the small single-copy (SSC) region (19,617 bp), and two inverted repeat sequences (IRa and IRb, each 26,242 bp). A total of 130 genes were identified, including 37 tRNA genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 85 mRNA genes, and no pseudogenes were detected. Phylogenetic analysis using 23 revealed a clear phylogenetic relationship between H. sabdariffa and H. esculentus (okra) among all tested species. Building on previous research, this study further explored the functional annotation of genes in the roselle chloroplast genome, as well as its codon preference, repetitive sequences, simple sequence repeats (SSR), Ka/Ks ratio, nucleotide diversity (pi) analysis, and boundary analysis. The complete gene sequences have been uploaded to the NCBI database (accession number PX363576). This study provides evidence for elucidating the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic status of H. sabdariffa, laying a theoretical foundation for studies on molecular mechanism resolution and cultivar development. Full article

Obesity, characterized by the accumulation of excess adipocytes, is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Medicinal plants, including Hibiscus sabdariffa, have been traditionally employed to prevent or treat conditions such as obesity and inflammation due to their safety profile and minimal side effects during long-term use. However, the anti-obesity potential of Hibiscus syriacus, a taxonomically distinct species within the same genus, remains unexplored. In this study, we screened 181 varieties of H. syriacus buds for anti-obesity effects and identified the water extract of the ‘Pyeonghwa’ bud (HPWE) as a potent inhibitor of adipogenesis. Using 3T3-L1 murine pre-adipocyte cells, we demonstrated that HPWE significantly reduced lipid accumulation without inducing cytotoxicity. Mechanistically, HPWE downregulated the expression of key adipogenic signaling proteins and transcription factors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), which serve as molecular markers of adipogenesis. Additionally, in vivo experiments employing a high-fat-diet-induced obesity mouse model using C57BL/6 species confirmed the anti-obesity effects of HPWE. Collectively, these findings suggest that HPWE represents a promising candidate for the prevention of obesity. Full article

Hibiscus sabdariffa (H. sabdariffa) is a high-value economic and functional crop, limited by agroclimatic conditions and low technological adoption. This systematic review examines the current state of artificial intelligence applications in agricultural management, analyzing 2111 records, selecting 82, and synthesizing 22 studies that meet the inclusion criteria. This review adopts a holistic framework aligned with three priority areas in agriculture—resource and climate management, crop productivity and quality, and sustainability—to explore how AI addresses key challenges in the cultivation and post-harvest processing of Hibiscus sabdariffa. The results show a predominance of classical machine learning techniques, with limited implementation of deep learning models. The most common applications include image classification, yield prediction, and analysis of bioactive compounds. However, limitations remain in the availability of open data, reproducible code, and standardized metrics. The narrative synthesis identified clear opportunities to integrate emerging technologies, such as deep neural networks and the Internet of Things (IoT), particularly in water management and stress monitoring. The review concludes that strengthening interdisciplinary research and promoting data openness is key to achieving a more resilient, sustainable, and technologically advanced crop. Full article

Reductive stress (RS) results from the overactivity of the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems and from excess antioxidant agents that neutralize reactive oxygen species. Hibiscus sabdariffa Linnaeus (HSL) is a natural source of antioxidant molecules that can overload the antioxidant system. Twenty-one Wistar rats were divided into three groups: group 1 (G) G1: rats that consumed a 6% HSL infusion for one month (HSL + 6%), G2: rats that consumed a 6% HSL infusion for one month and were then given natural water for another month (HSL ± 6%), and G3: rats with natural drinking water. Renal vascular resistance (RVR) was evaluated through their responses to norepinephrine (Ne), acetylcholine (Ach), super oxide (O₂⁻), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)_, and peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻). The activity of antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress markers was evaluated. RVR was increased by Ne and H₂O₂ (p = 0.03), but it was decreased by Ach, O₂⁻, and ONOO⁻ (p = 0.01). The reduced glutathione / oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio and nitrates/nitrites ratio, the total antioxidant capacity, the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidases, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glucose-6-phosphate, and the expression of phosphorylated NrF2 were increased (p ≤ 0.04). However, the thiol groups, adenochrome, and glutathione-S-transferase were decreased (p = 0.01) in G1 vs. G2 and G3. The excessive consumption of antioxidants provided by a 6% HSL infusion results in RS contributing to a decrease in ROS. Full article

The escalating global challenges of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and cancer necessitate innovative therapeutic solutions from natural sources. This study investigated the multifaceted therapeutic potential of pigment-enriched plant extracts. We screened diverse plant extracts for antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi. Hibiscus sabdariffa emerged as the most promising, demonstrating potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial and significant antibiofilm activity. Sub-inhibitory concentrations of H. sabdariffa robustly downregulated essential bacterial virulence genes and suppressed aflatoxin gene expression. Comprehensive chemical profiling via HPLC identified major anthocyanin glucosides, while GC-MS revealed diverse non-pigment bioactive compounds, including fatty acids and alcohols. Molecular docking suggested favorable interactions of key identified compounds (Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and 1-Deoxy-d-arabitol) with E. coli outer membrane protein A (OmpA), indicating potential antiadhesive and antimicrobial mechanisms. Furthermore, H. sabdariffa exhibited selective cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. These findings establish H. sabdariffa pigment-enriched extract as a highly promising, multi-functional source of novel therapeutics, highlighting its potential for simultaneously addressing drug resistance and cancer challenges through an integrated chemical, biological, and computational approach. Full article

Hibiscus sabdariffa (Hs) is a tropical plant with a wide range of therapeutic properties; however, few studies have evaluated its potential adverse effects. In the present study, the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of Hs (EHHs) dried calyces administered during gestation were assessed in Wistar rats and their newborns using the micronucleus assay in peripheral blood and the quantification of malondialdehyde (MDA) in various tissues. Three different doses of EHHs (500, 1000, and 2000 mg/Kg) were administered orally to five pregnant Wistar rats per group during the final days of gestation (days 16–20). Blood samples were collected every 24 h during the last six days of gestation and from the neonates at birth, along with tissue samples for MDA quantification. EHHs induced myelosuppression in the mothers and genotoxicity in their newborns, as well as cytotoxicity, evidenced by increased MDA levels in serum, liver, and kidneys of the mothers, and in the liver, kidneys, brain, and muscle tissues of the neonates. These findings provide important insights into the safety profile of Hs, and its use is therefore recommended only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Full article

Skin aging causes reduced hydration, elasticity, and increased wrinkles. Recent safety and compliance concerns over oral collagen supplements have increased interest in plant-based alternatives like Hibiscus sabdariffa with antioxidant and anti-aging properties. However, clinical evidence regarding its efficacy remains limited. We aimed to evaluate the effects of this plant-based collagen alternative (VC-H1, Hibiscus Enzyme Extract) supplement on skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), desquamation, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction in photoaged individuals. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 98 participants (aged 35–60 years) presenting with dry skin and periorbital wrinkles. Participants randomly received 1.5 g/day of VC-H1 or placebo for 12 weeks. Skin hydration, TEWL, deep moisture, keratin index, elasticity, and wrinkle parameters were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. VC-H1 supplementation significantly increased skin hydration, reduced the TEWL and keratin index, and improved deep moisture content for those receiving it compared with the controls. Wrinkle depth significantly decreased, and skin elasticity also improved. Those in the VC-H1 group showed greater overall improvement than those in the control group. Oral VC-H1 supplementation significantly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction, suggesting its potential as a plant-based alternative to traditional collagen supplements for skin rejuvenation. Full article