Search Results (92)

The incidence of liver injury has been increasing year by year, potentially progressing to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma, posing a threat to human health. Gardenia, Astragalus, and Hawthorn are commonly used natural products with dual purposes as both medicine and food. While extensive research has been conducted on their individual pharmacological activities, systematic studies on the synergistic effects and efficacy evaluation of their combined use in liver protection are still lacking. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of the compound Gardenia and Scutellaria extract (GACE) on CCl4-induced liver injury in mice. The composition and content of GACE were analyzed by HPLC. Serum biochemical, inflammatory, and hepatic oxidative stress indicators were detected using assay kits. Liver pathological changes were examined by HE staining, while apoptosis was observed via TUNEL staining. Transcriptomic and metabolomic sequencing were employed to analyze the potential mechanisms of CCl4 in alleviating liver injury. Finally, Western blotting was performed to validate the analytical results. The results demonstrated that CCl4 significantly upregulated the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12 and IL-2 (p < 0.05), downregulated the level of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (p < 0.05), and caused markedly elevated serum ALT and AST levels (p < 0.01). The hepatic lobule structure was nearly obliterated in liver tissue, with disordered arrangement of hepatic cords and numerous vacuoles appearing in hepatocytes. The TUNEL staining positive cell rate increased significantly compared with the blank group (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, CCl4 also significantly inhibited SOD and GSH-Px activities in liver tissue (p < 0.05), while markedly increasing MDA levels (p < 0.05). GACE significantly alleviated liver tissue damage and reduced hepatocyte apoptosis (p < 0.05). It markedly enhanced SOD and GSH-Px activities in liver tissue while decreasing ALT, AST, MDA, IL-6, IL-12, and IL-2 levels (p < 0.05), thereby mitigating hepatic oxidative damage and inflammatory responses. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that the PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways play crucial roles in mediating GACE’s therapeutic effects against liver injury. Further validation demonstrated that GACE can attenuate CCl4-induced liver injury by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt and MAPK pathways. Full article

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with atherosclerosis (AS) serving as its primary pathological foundation, involving multiple pathological processes, including lipid metabolism disorders, chronic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. The food and medicine continuum (FMC) concept originates from traditional Chinese medicine, emphasizing that certain foods possess both nutritional and medicinal value, aligning closely with the modern “food is medicine” philosophy. This narrative review examines the bioactive components and anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms of ten FMC materia medica: hawthorn fruit (Crataegus Fructus), ginkgo seed (Ginkgo Semen), milkvetch root (Astragali Radix), turmeric (Curcumae longae Rhizoma), ginger (Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens), glossy ganoderma (Ganoderma), Angelica sinensis (Angelicae sinensis Radix), barbary wolfberry fruit (Lycii Fructus), lotus leaf (Nelumbinis Folium), and honey (Mel). These materia medica are rich in bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides, which can exert cardiovascular protective effects, such as regulating lipid metabolism, inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and modulating gut microbiota. Regarding clinical evidence, meta-analyses support the beneficial effects of ginger and honey on cardiometabolic risk factors, though the field still faces challenges, including the need for higher-level clinical evidence and difficulties in product standardization. This review aims to integrate traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches, providing scientific evidence for the development of functional foods and phytotherapy. Full article

Near-infrared radiation contributes to photoaging through oxidative stress and matrix metalloproteinase activation. Botanical extracts with antioxidant properties may offer additional protection beyond conventional UV filters. To evaluate the effect of hydrogel formulations containing Rosmarinus officinalis and Crataegus monogyna extracts on the directional reflectance of human skin across various spectral ranges. Directional reflectance was measured on the forearm skin of healthy female volunteers before and after application of a base hydrogel and hydrogels containing plant extracts. Hyperspectral imaging was used across spectral ranges of 335–2500 nm. To assess the application properties, rheological and textural evaluation of extract-based hydrogels was performed. The obtained results are satisfactory and indicate the expected application effectiveness of hydrogels with C. monogyna and R. officinalis extracts. Significant reductions in skin reflectance were observed in the IR spectrum after application of both botanical formulations. Median reflectance decreased by 3.5% with rosemary and 2.3% with hawthorn in the 1000–1700 nm range, and by 17.8% and 20.3% respectively in the 1700–2500 nm range. No statistically significant changes were observed in the UV or visible light ranges. Hydrogels enriched with R. officinalis and C. monogyna extracts reduced infrared reflectance of the skin, suggesting potential as adjunctive agents in photoprotection. These findings support further investigation into extract-based formulations for IR-related skin damage prevention. Full article

In this research, the anti-hyperlipidemic effects of hawthorn polysaccharides in experimental mice fed a high-fat diet were thoroughly investigated. The findings indicated that the body and organ weights of the high-fat group (HC) mice increased significantly, fat accumulation was evident, and serum indicators showed elevated lipid levels. After 8 weeks of the intragastric administration of hawthorn polysaccharides, the data showed that the body weight of the hawthorn polysaccharide (HA) group was notably lower than that of the HC group and close to that of the NC group. In addition, the hawthorn polysaccharide intervention improved the symptoms of the mice. In particular, the hawthorn polysaccharide intervention significantly increased HDL-C levels and decreased LDL-C levels in the HA group mice. Furthermore, gut microbiota analysis demonstrated that a high-fat diet altered its structure. The intervention with hawthorn polysaccharides modulated the intestinal flora structure, lowered the F/B ratio, and increased the abundance of beneficial bacterial strains associated with lower blood lipid levels. Full article

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the bromatological profile of fruits from rowanberry (Sorbus aucuparia L.) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.), as well as the polyphenol bioaccessibility under in vitro simulated gastrointestinal conditions, antioxidant activity and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation in a biological model (egg yolk). The fruits were demonstrated to be rich in bioactive compounds, containing comparable total vitamin E levels (~65 mg/kg), with α-tocopherol as the predominant isomer, and measurable amounts of xanthophylls, mainly lutein (20.19–21.69 μg/g), astaxanthin, and canthaxanthin. HPLC-DAD analysis identified 19 polyphenolic compounds, with catechin being the dominant compound in rowanberry fruits (4.36 mg/g), while epigallocatechin and catechin were the most abundant in hawthorn fruits. In vitro gastrointestinal digestion showed elevated intestinal bioaccessibility of hydroxybenzoic acids, with ellagic acid reaching ~96% in the intestinal phase of rowanberry fruits and ~109% in hawthorn fruits, indicating increased availability. In hawthorn fruits, flavanols exhibited greater stability and higher bioaccessibility, with catechin reaching 101% in the gastric phase, epicatechin remaining highly bioaccessible (98–97%), and epigallocatechin showing moderate bioaccessibility (24–50%). Both fruit extracts exhibited antioxidant activity, with hawthorn fruits showing significantly higher ABTS and DPPH scavenging capacities. Rowanberry and hawthorn fruits exhibited an inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation in yolk homogenates, reducing malondialdehyde formation to 37.19 mg/kg and 20.58 mg/kg from 50.79 mg/kg, respectively, although their efficacy remained lower than that of synthetic antioxidants. The findings of this study indicate that rowanberry and hawthorn fruits are promising sources of bioactive compounds, exhibiting significant antioxidant activity in biological models and supporting the potential valorization of these underutilized fruits for functional food and nutraceutical applications. Full article

The need for efficient water management is critical today, as this resource faces increasing scarcity due to population growth, pollution, climate change, depletion, and overexploitation of water resources. This further exacerbates the problem of intermittent water supply (IWS), where consumers receive running water for less than 24 h a day, 7 days a week, affecting more than one billion people worldwide. This article presents the development and implementation of a smart water metering and monitoring system (SWMMS) for households affected by IWS. The system comprises IoT devices that record water levels and consumption and supply events in real time; cloud computing services to store and process the readings taken by the IoT devices; and a mobile application that allows users to view the available volume, consult their daily consumption history, and receive alerts for prolonged consumption time, overflows, and low water levels. The system was implemented for 115 days in a home suffering from an IWS, where a lower number of consumption events were recorded during the first 40 days of monitoring due to an initial behavioral response to continuous observation (Hawthorne effect), rather than an improvement in efficiency induced by the system. Full article

The transition to a circular bioeconomy enhances the valorization of agricultural by-products. Hawthorn leaves (Crataegus spp.), generated in large quantities from orchard maintenance, represent a promising yet underutilized biomass. This comprehensive narrative review synthesizes recent advances regarding their bioactive compounds, extraction methods, and applications. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies. The analysis reveals that hawthorn leaves are rich in polyphenols (e.g., flavonoids, procyanidins), with their content often exceeding that found in fruits. Modern “green” extraction techniques (e.g., ultrasound- and microwave-assisted) demonstrate superior efficiency in recovering these thermolabile compounds compared to conventional methods. The broad spectrum of associated biological activities—including antioxidant, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, and insecticidal effects—underpins their potential in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and functional foods. Crucially, this review highlights the significant promise of hawthorn leaf extracts as a source for developing natural, plant-based biopesticides, aligning with sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management principles. To fully realize this “waste-to-wealth” potential, future research should prioritize the scaling of eco-friendly extraction, field trials for crop protection efficacy, and the standardization of extracts. Full article

The development of high-performance wood-based materials has attracted increasing interest as a means of enhancing the mechanical properties of wood for structural applications. Mechanical densification combined with chemical pretreatment is an effective approach; however, many reported methods rely on complex multi-component chemical systems or severe chemical conditions designed to dissolve lignin or hemicelluloses. In this study, a simplified NaOH-only pretreatment followed by hot-press densification was investigated, targeting selective cell-wall plasticization rather than extensive polymer dissolution. Juniper (Juniperus communis), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), and birch (Betula pendula) were used as samples of softwood and hardwood species. Wood specimens were pretreated in 1 M NaOH at 145 °C for 10–30 min and subsequently densified by radial compression. Changes in chemical composition were evaluated by HPLC after acid hydrolysis and FTIR spectroscopy, while microstructural changes were examined using SEM. Physical and mechanical properties were assessed through density measurements and three-point bending tests. The results show that NaOH-only pretreatment induces hemicellulose deacetylation and modification of interpolymer linkages without substantial changes in the main wood polymer contents. Densification resulted in effective lumen collapse and a compact microstructure, leading to a significant increase in density and mechanical properties. Overall, the results demonstrate that efficient wood densification and mechanical enhancement can be achieved by promoting polymer mobility through selective cleavage of interpolymer bonds, using a simplified, single-alkali pretreatment that reduces chemical complexity and material loss while avoiding extensive lignin or hemicellulose dissolution. Full article

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.) is a medicinal and nutritional plant widely recognized for its rich phytochemical composition and diverse health-promoting properties. The fruit, leaves, and flowers contain significant amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols, phenolic acids and dye compounds with antioxidant properties that contribute to its strong antioxidant capacity. Numerous studies have demonstrated hawthorn’s beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including regulation of blood pressure, lipid metabolism, and cardiac function. Additionally, hawthorn exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic properties, supporting its role in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Its potential as a functional food ingredient and natural health supplement is increasingly recognized. However, further clinical trials and standardization of bioactive components are needed to confirm its efficacy, safety, and optimal dosage. Overall, hawthorn represents a valuable natural resource for promoting human health and well-being through diet and phytotherapy. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present—based on the scientific literature—the antioxidant properties of hawthorn and to assess the possibility of using this plant as a functional ingredient. Full article

Hawthorn is widely distributed across China, including Shanxi, Henan, Hebei, Shandong, and Shaanxi provinces. It is rich in functional components and nutritional elements, making it a crucial raw material for medicinal and food products. This review provides comprehensive information of the distribution of hawthorn germplasm resources in China and compares the differences in nutrient composition, chemical substances, and functional activities among different species. Furthermore, it offers a statistical analysis of the diversified processing and applications of hawthorn in China. Finally, the review identifies current challenges in the agro-food industries and states the future outlook of the industry. By systematically integrating research findings into a comprehensive “resource–characterization–application” framework, the study addresses the current fragmentation and lack of systematic organization in hawthorn research. It seeks to provide a scientific basis for directional breeding, strategic planning of production areas, precise product development, and high-quality development of the hawthorn industry in years to come. Full article

This study develops biodegradable chitosan (CS) films plasticized with natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) composed of choline chloride and glycolic acid (1:3 molar ratio). The same NaDES served as an effective extraction medium for bioactive compounds from hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), which were incorporated into the chitosan matrix to enhance functionality. CS films with 44–70 wt% NaDES were evaluated, and the 50 wt% formulation exhibited the optimal mechanical and barrier performance. Upon extract incorporation, this film showed marked decreases in Young’s modulus (131→30 MPa) and tensile strength (24→12 MPa), relative to the extract-free counterparts, indicating enhanced flexibility. Stress–strain analyses confirmed a progressive reduction in stiffness with increasing NaDES content, evidencing its plasticizing effect. FTIR analysis revealed extensive hydrogen-bonding between CS and NaDES, alongside successful integration of polyphenolics extracted from hawthorn. Morphological analysis showed smooth, dense, homogeneous surfaces. Films exhibited strong UV absorption, with extract-loaded samples extending into the UVA and visible ranges, enhancing light-barrier properties. The presence of polyphenolic compounds enhanced the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity to nearly twice that of the neat CS films. These combined mechanical, optical, and antioxidant properties highlight the potential of these NaDES-based chitosan films for sustainable active packaging. Full article

Chinese hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida) offers both medicinal and nutritional benefits due to its bioactive compounds. However, the combined effects of environmental and anthropogenic factors on its geographic distribution and medicinal quality remain insufficiently explored. Species distribution modeling (Biomod2) was integrated with ArcGIS-based spatial analysis to systematically model suitable habitats for C. pinnatifida across varying environmental and anthropogenic conditions, while concurrently assessing the spatial distribution patterns of medicinally active compounds. Furthermore, multi-scenario climate simulations were utilized to predict the impacts of future climate change on the spatial distribution patterns of this species. Anthropogenic activities strongly influence C. pinnatifida habitat suitability, followed by BIO18 (Precipitation of Warmest Quarter) and BIO4 (Temperature Seasonality). Bioactive compound heterogeneity is driven by anthropogenic activities, AWC (Soil Available Water Content), BIO12 (Annual Precipitation), and BIO4. High-suitability/high-quality areas are concentrated in Shandong Province. Under SSP126 (low emissions), high-suitability areas remain stable (2050s–2090s) with northeastward centroid shifts; under SSP585 (high emissions), they contract with southeastward centroid migration. Shandong is the optimal long-term cultivation region across scenarios. These findings establish a critical basis for cultivating C. pinnatifida with enhanced medicinal properties, developing adaptive management strategies to strengthen conservation, and ensuring sustainable utilization amid global climate change. Full article

Background: Antibiotic resistance is spreading, and the effectiveness of the most widely used antibiotics is decreasing. These issues are global health and food safety concerns that require immediate attention. One potential solution is the use of various gemmotherapy extracts (GTEs). However, there is a paucity of studies investigating the presumptive antimicrobial activity of GTEs. Methods: In this comparative study, we are assessing the antimicrobial properties of eight selected GTEs, as well as their polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, against a panel of microorganisms (Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and molds). We are using the agar diffusion method (ADM) and the broth microdilution method (BMD) to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Results: Among the analyzed extracts, dog rose, lingonberry, sea buckthorn, blackthorn, and common grape GTEs showed the highest total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and the most relevant antimicrobial activity including certain differences with respect to the microbiostatic and/or microbicidal properties. These results demonstrate the relative strength of the antimicrobial effects of specific GTEs against certain microbial species, which could facilitate the use of these GTEs in personalized and/or specific antimicrobial therapies. Full article

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that is closely related to genetic and environmental factors, among which pesticide exposure is considered an important risk factor. Fresh jujube and hawthorn, as widely consumed fruits, may contain pesticide residues, but the potential effects of long-term low-dose intake on PD are not yet clear. This study combines network toxicology and molecular docking technology to elucidate the molecular mechanism of PD induced by residual pesticides in fresh jujube and hawthorn. Firstly, common risk pesticides (such as organophosphates and pyrethroids) in fresh jujube and hawthorn were screened through the database. Subsequently, a “pesticide target—PD” interactive network was constructed using network toxicology to predict key targets and related pathways. Finally, molecular docking technology was used to verify the binding ability of pesticide molecules to PD-related proteins. The results indicate that some pesticides (such as chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin) may increase the risk of PD by affecting lipid metabolism and oxidative stress response. This study provides a new approach for assessing the neurotoxicity of pesticide residues and suggests the need to pay attention to the potential impact of dietary pesticide exposure on PD, providing a scientific basis for food safety regulation and PD prevention strategies. Full article

Bacterial disease infections pose a major challenge to the healthy growth of crucian carp. Hawthorn polysaccharide (HP) is a natural active ingredient in hawthorn and has a wide range of pharmacological effects. However, the mechanism of HP against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in crucian carp cultures is unknown. In this study, it was found that 0.4% HP could significantly reduce the mortality of crucian carp, significantly increase the activities of T-AOC, SOD, CAT, and GSH-PX of crucian carp infected with A. hydrophila (p < 0.05), decrease the activity of MDA, and decrease the expression levels of TGF-β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-8 genes. Increased IL-10 gene expression levels (p < 0.05) significantly improved the disease resistance of crucian carp. HP could relieve intestinal inflammation caused by A. hydrophila infection, restoring intestinal structural integrity. At the same time, HP increased the diversity and improved the structure of intestinal microbiota. At the phylum level, the abundance of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes increased, while that of Bacteroidota and Fusobacteriota decreased. At the genus level, the abundance of Aeromonas increased, while the abundance of Cetobacterium decreased. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis of crucian carp LC-MS revealed 147 different metabolites, 62 of which were up-regulated and 85 of which were down-regulated, and Linoleic acid metabolism and Glycerophospholipids were one of the most important metabolic pathways. In conclusion, the supplementation of HP in feed can promote the healthy breeding of crucian carp, and the effect of resisting A. hydrophila is better. Full article