Search Results (81)

Aim: To prepare two different kinds of wound care creams containing plant extracts and examine their effectiveness in comparison with a placebo cream and a commercial wound care cream, Madecassol^®. Methods: The two cream formulations were developed using the same placebo cream (PC) as base cream. One formulation contained balsam of oriental sweet gum, or Levant storax, named as Levant Storax Cream (LSC); the other contained oil of Calendula, extract of St. John’s Wort, aescin (an extract of horse chestnut), and freeze-dried powder from Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. leaf juice, designated as Complex Cream (CC). In the characterization of the creams, organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, size distribution, and zeta potential of oil globules were measured. Furthermore, the stability of the creams was assessed under different environmental conditions. In vitro studies were performed by using an excisional wound model in rats to assess the potential of the creams for stimulating wound healing. The efficacy of LSC and CC was compared with a commercial reference cream, Madecassol^® (M), and the placebo control. The study was also designed with a negative control group of rats that were not treated but handled the same way as the other treatment groups. The wound contraction rate, total skin thickness recovery, and results of histopathological parameter examinations were used to compare the effectiveness of the treatments. Results: The stability of formulated creams confirmed that they were stable for the duration of the study. In vivo studies showed that rats treated with LSC achieved the highest wound healing rates when compared with the other groups. A better response was recorded for the CC-treated population when compared to both control and placebo groups, but there was no significant difference seen in healing score between CC and M groups. Full article

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are powerful techniques that have been employed to analyze foodstuffs comprehensively. These techniques offer in-depth information about the chemical composition, structure, and spatial distribution of components in a variety of food products. Quantitative NMR is widely applied for precise quantification of metabolites, authentication of food products, and monitoring of food quality. Low-field ¹H-NMR relaxometry is an important technique for investigating the most abundant components of intact foodstuffs based on relaxation times and amplitude of the NMR signals. In particular, information on water compartments, diffusion, and movement can be obtained by detecting proton signals because of H₂O in foodstuffs. Saffron adulterations with calendula, safflower, turmeric, sandalwood, and tartrazine have been analyzed using benchtop NMR, an alternative to the high-field NMR approach. The fraudulent addition of Robusta to Arabica coffee was investigated by ¹H-NMR Spectroscopy and the marker of Robusta coffee can be detected in the ¹H-NMR spectrum. MRI images can be a reliable tool for appreciating morphological differences in vegetables and fruits. In kiwifruit, the effects of water loss and the states of water were investigated using MRI. It provides informative images regarding the spin density distribution of water molecules and the relationship between water and cellular tissues. ¹H-NMR spectra of aqueous extract of kiwifruits affected by elephantiasis show a higher number of small oligosaccharides than healthy fruits do. One of the frauds that has been detected in the olive oil sector reflects the addition of hazelnut oils to olive oils. However, using the NMR methodology, it is possible to distinguish the two types of oils, since, in hazelnut oils, linolenic fatty chains and squalene are absent, which is also indicated by the ¹H-NMR spectrum. NMR has been applied to detect milk adulterations, such as bovine milk being spiked with known levels of whey, urea, synthetic urine, and synthetic milk. In particular, T2 relaxation time has been found to be significantly affected by adulteration as it increases with adulterant percentage. The ¹H spectrum of honey samples from two botanical species shows the presence of signals due to the specific markers of two botanical species. NMR generates large datasets due to the complexity of food matrices and, to deal with this, chemometrics (multivariate analysis) can be applied to monitor the changes in the constituents of foodstuffs, assess the self-life, and determine the effects of storage conditions. Multivariate analysis could help in managing and interpreting complex NMR data by reducing dimensionality and identifying patterns. NMR spectroscopy followed by multivariate analysis can be channelized for evaluating the nutritional profile of food products by quantifying vitamins, sugars, fatty acids, amino acids, and other nutrients. In this review, we summarize the importance of NMR spectroscopy in chemical profiling and quality assessment of food products employing magnetic resonance technologies and multivariate statistical analysis. Full article

Vegetal sources are a continuous research field and different types of extracts have been obtained over time. The most challenging part is compounding them in a pharmaceutical product. This study aimed to integrate a mixture (EX) of four extracts (SE-Sophorae flos, GE-Ginkgo bilobae folium, ME-Meliloti herba, CE-Calendulae flos) in formulations with polymers (polyhydroxybutyrate, polylactic-co-glycolic acid) and their physicochemical profiling. The resulting samples consist of particle suspensions, which were subjected to Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis. When compared to single-extract formulations spectra, they revealed band changes, depending on the complex interactions. Using X-ray Diffractometry, the partially crystalline phase was highlighted for EX-PLGA, while the others were amorphous. Moreover, Atomic Force Microscopy pointed out the nanoscale particles and the topography of the samples, and the outstanding roughness belonging to EX-PHB-PLGA. A 30 min period of immersion was enough for the formulations to spread on the surface of the compression stockings material (CS) and after drying, it became a polymeric film. TGA analysis was performed, which evaluated the impregnated content: 5.9% CS-EX-PHB, 6.4% CS-EX-PLGA, and 7.5% CS-EX-PHB-PLGA. In conclusion, the extract’s phytochemicals and the interactions established with the polymers or with the other extracts from the mixture have a significant impact on the physicochemical properties of the obtained formulations, which are particularly important in pharmaceutical product development. Full article

Background/Objectives: Efficient wound treatment embraces the management of four overlapping phases, starting with hemostasis, an immediate physiological response aimed at stopping bleeding from damaged blood vessels caused by skin injury. This paper proposes an innovative, nature-based hemostatic biomaterial designed to assist natural self-healing regenerative mechanisms. Methods: Light, transparent, and skin-adhesive films based on κ-carrageenan, meadow polyfloral honey, and Calendula officinalis flower extract were fabricated via solution casting. Comprehensive characterization revealed the physicochemical, structural, swelling, and barrier properties and the influence of each bioactive compound utilized for film preparation. Results: The samples subcutaneously implanted in Wistar rats induced vascularization, deposition of collagen, and orientation of collagen fibers while being fully phagocytosed and gradually biodegraded. The rat tail-cut model demonstrated that the films significantly reduced blood loss (0.1875 ± 0.0732 g) compared to the control (0.7837 ± 0.3319 g), and hemostasis was achieved notably faster (355.75 ± 71.42 s) than in the control group (704.25 ± 85.29 s). The rat liver punch biopsy model confirmed reduced blood loss (2.8025 ± 1.5174 g) and shorter time to hemostasis (303.25 ± 77.90 s) compared to the control (3.1475 ± 1.5413 g, 383.00 ± 36.53 s). Conclusions: The results indicate the great potential of the fabricated films as hemostatic wound dressings. Full article

The extraction of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and coumarins, from natural sources has gained significant attention due to their potential health benefits. This review aims to explore the application of high-pressure extraction processes, particularly supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), for obtaining flavonoids and coumarins from flower seeds. These techniques offer a greener, more efficient alternative to conventional extraction methods, minimizing the use of harmful solvents and improving the yield and purity of the target compounds. Flower seeds, a rich source of bioactive molecules, are an underutilized reservoir for these valuable compounds. For example, seeds from plants such as Calendula officinalis (calendula) and Helianthus annuus (sunflower) are rich in flavonoids and coumarins. The proposed review will examine the influence of extraction parameters—such as temperature, pressure, solvent choice, and extraction time—on the yield and quality of flavonoids and coumarins. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of high-pressure extraction methods and optimize protocols for the efficient, sustainable extraction of flavonoids and coumarins from flower seeds. Full article

Background/Objectives: The present experiment aimed to formulate four ointments that included mixtures of plant extracts (Hippophae rhamnoides, Calendula officinalis, Arctium lappa, and Achillea millefolium), apitherapy products (honey, propolis, and apilarnil) and natural polymers (collagen, chitosan, and the lyophilisate of egg white) in an ointment base. Methods: In order to investigate the therapeutic properties of the ointments, experimental in vivo injury models (linear incision, circular excision, and thermal burns) were performed on laboratory animals, namely Wistar rats. The treatment was applied topically, once a day, for 21 days. Clinical and macroscopic evaluation, determination of lesion shrinkage rate, re-epithelialization period, and histopathological examination were performed. Results: The results demonstrate that the tested ointments have a significant effect in healing skin lesions. On the ninth day of treatment, the wound contraction rate was 98.17 ± 0.15% for the mixed ointment group, compared to the negative control group’s rate of 14.85 ± 2.95%. At day 21, dermal collagenization and restoration of histological structure occurred for all treated groups. Conclusions: The tested ointments exerted in vivo wound healing and re-epithelialization effects on incision, excision, and thermal burn injuries. Full article

Chronic pruritus, or persistent itching, is a debilitating condition that severely impacts quality of life, especially in palliative care settings. Traditional treatments often fail to provide adequate relief or are associated with significant side effects, prompting interest in alternative therapies. This review investigates the antipruritic potential of eight medicinal plants: chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), calendula (Calendula officinalis), curcumin (Curcuma longa), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), peppermint (Mentha piperita), and evening primrose (Oenothera biennis). These plants are analyzed for their traditional applications, active bioactive compounds, mechanisms of action, clinical evidence, usage, dosage, and safety profiles. Comprehensive searches were conducted in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and b-on, focusing on in vitro, animal, and clinical studies using keywords like “plant”, “extract”, and “pruritus”. Studies were included regardless of publication date and limited to English-language articles. Findings indicate that active compounds such as polysaccharides in aloe vera, curcuminoids in turmeric, and menthol in peppermint exhibit significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties. Chamomile and calendula alleviate itching through anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing effects, while lavender and licorice offer antimicrobial benefits alongside antipruritic relief. Evening primrose, rich in gamma-linolenic acid, is effective in atopic dermatitis-related itching. Despite promising preclinical and clinical results, challenges remain in standardizing dosages and formulations. The review highlights the necessity of further clinical trials to ensure efficacy and safety, advocating for integrating these botanical therapies into complementary palliative care practices. Such approaches emphasize holistic treatment, addressing chronic pruritus’s physical and emotional burden, thereby enhancing patient well-being. Full article

Skin protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation has long been crucial due to its role in photoaging, sunburn, and wrinkles. This study focuses on developing a bio-based sunscreen from Calendula arvensis capitula extract. Various extraction methods (maceration, sonication, and infusion) and solvents (EtOH, EtOH-H₂O, and H₂O) were explored in order to identify the most effective extract for use in a sunscreen formulation. Each extract was analyzed for its phenolic content, as well as antioxidant activities (assessed through DPPH, CAT, and FRAP assays). Enzyme inhibition assays for tyrosinase, elastase, and collagenase highlighted the low IC₅₀ values of the hydroethanolic extract. Furthermore, the in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) against UVB radiation was measured using ultraviolet spectrophotometry. A phytochemical analysis showed phenolic levels between 8 and 27 mg GAE/g, flavonoid concentrations of 7–13 mg QE/g, and tannin levels of 1.15–1.68 mg/mL, alongside moderate antioxidant activity. The ethanol maceration extract reduced the interfacial tension to 2.15 mN/m in 600 s, outperforming the conventional emulsifier polysorbate 20. The sonicated hydroethanolic extract demonstrated remarkable SPF efficacy (SPF = 193.65 ± 0.02), far exceeding that of the standard zinc oxide (SPF = 11.88 ± 0.03). The proposed formulations meet the COSMOS standards, suggesting their potential for certification as biological products. Further clinical and in vivo studies are necessary to confirm their safety and commercial viability. Full article

Supercritical fluid extraction using carbon dioxide (SFE-CO₂) brings a convincing advance in the production of plant oils used in cosmetics, in fortified foods and dietary supplements, and in pharmaceuticals and medicine. The SFE-CO₂-extracted, hexane-extracted, and cold-pressed plant oils of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.), flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), linden (Tilia sp.), poppy (Papaver somniferum L.), apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), and marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) seeds were investigated in terms of oil yield, fatty acid composition, unsaponifiable matter yield and composition, and the antioxidant activity of unsaponifiable matter. SFE-CO₂ proved to be the preferred extraction method for four out of six plant materials, especially for seeds with lower oil content. However, for seeds with higher oil content, such as apricots, cold pressing is a viable alternative. A comparison of fatty acid composition did not reveal significant differences between extraction techniques. SFE-CO₂ extraction improved the total phytosterol content of oils, especially pumpkin seed oil. A high variability in the antioxidant potential of the unsaponifiable matter studied was determined, with pumpkin seed oil showing the highest antioxidant activity. A correlation analysis was performed between unsaponifiable composition and antioxidant activity, and showed statistically significant correlations with squalene, cycloartenol, and an unidentified compound. This is the first comparison of the phytosterol compositions of linseed, apricot, linden, and marigold. Through continued optimization, SFE-CO₂ has the potential to revolutionize the production of plant oils and provide a sustainable and efficient alternative. Full article

Aeromonas spp. is a major pathogen in aquaculture with a great negative economic impact. Essential oils (EOs) are compounds of the secondary metabolism of plants known for their antibacterial and antibiofilm activities. In this study, in vitro antibacterial activity of eight EOs: tea tree (extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia), eucalyptus (extracted from Eucalyptus globulus LABILL.), knee timber (extracted from Pini mungo L.), peppermint (extracted from Mentha piperita L.), oregano (extracted from Origanum vulgare L.), rosemary (extracted from Rosmarinus officinalis L.), thyme (extracted from Thymus vulgaris L.) and pine EO (extracted from Pinus silvestris L.), obtained from Calendula a.s., was evaluated. Their antibacterial activity was demonstrated against Aeromonas spp. isolates. Oregano and thyme EOs showed the strongest activity against all tested isolates at low concentrations, followed by tea tree and peppermint EOs. The MIC value ranged from 0.06 µL/mL to 1.0 µL/mL. The tested EOs showed a significant antibiofilm activity against biofilm-forming isolates with MBIC₅₀ ranging from 0.015 µL/mL to 0.25 µL/mL. All tested isolates were obtained from rainbow trout free of clinical signs of infection. Twelve isolates of Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. masoucida, four Aeromonas hydrophila, and four isolates of Aeromonas veronii were identified. The results of the in vitro study showed a significant effect of EOs against Aeromonas spp., which confirmed their potential for use in aquaculture as a prevention against bacterial diseases and a way of reducing the use of antibiotics. Full article

Wound healing is a complex process that can be improved through advanced biomedical approaches. Incorporating nanopolymers and plant extracts into wound dressings offers a favorable strategy for promoting tissue repair. Nanopolymers provide a controlled environment for sustained drug release while also protecting the wound from external contaminants. When combined with bioactive compounds from plant extracts, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, this hybrid approach can accelerate healing, reduce infection, and improve tissue regeneration. Hence, in this study, we have synthesized alginate/gelatin hydrogel blended with only nanosilver (Alg/gel-Ag) and with nanosilver and plant extracts like aloe vera, curcumin, plantain peel extract, and Calendula flower petal extract (Alg/gel-AgP). The synthesized hydrogels were characterized using different photophysical tools, and the cytotoxicity effect was studied using a fibroblast cell line (V79). The antibacterial effect of the hydrogels was also observed against E. coli and S. aureus, determining the MIC and MBC. The wound healing in vitro was also assessed using scratch assay which depicted a rapid wound closure for Alg/gel-AgP compared to the untreated control and Alg/gel-Ag. The combined effect between nanotechnology and natural extracts represents a novel and effective approach for enhancing the wound healing process. Full article

Herein, we introduce a simple precipitation method for preparing graphene oxide–silver nanoparticle (GO/AgNP) composites, utilizing Calendula officinalis (C. officinalis) seed extract as both a reducing and stabilizing agent. Our research combines the sustainable preparation of graphene oxide (GO) with the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), aiming to explore the potential of the obtained composite as a novel antibacterial material. To establish a benchmark, the synthesis was also performed using sodium citrate, a conventional reducing agent. The resultant GO/AgNP composites were characterized through several analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, confirming the successful functionalization of GO with AgNPs. The antibacterial effectiveness of the composites was systematically assessed against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), with nanoparticle concentrations spanning from 0 to 250 µg/mL, utilizing mostly disk diffusion and colony-forming unit (CFU) count assays. The AgNPs were characterized by a size range of 15–50 nm. Notably, the GO/AgNP composite prepared using C. officinalis seed extract demonstrated superior antibacterial activity at all tested concentrations, outperforming both pure GO and the GO/AgNP composite prepared with sodium citrate. The most pronounced antibacterial effect was observed at a concentration of 32.0 µg/mL. Therefore, this innovative synthesis approach may offer a valuable contribution to the development of new therapeutic agents to combat bacterial infections, suggesting further exploration into antibacterial coatings or potential drug development. Full article

Calendula officinalis L. is an important medicinal and ornamental plant possessing multiple bioactive compounds. The in vitro plant regeneration method has recently replaced traditional field cultivation practices of calendula due to its fascinating phytochemical profile. In this study, callus formation and indirect organogenesis were described to establish an effective in vitro propagation strategy in C. officinalis. Using a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) approach, the phytochemical content of tissues developed in vitro and field-grown was studied, and the biochemical contents were quantified and compared in various tissues. The incidence of callus formation from leaf explants was highest (94.44%) on MS medium fortified with 1.0 mg/L BAP and 1.0 mg/L NAA, which later became organogenic. On MS, 1.0 mg/L BAP and 1.0 mg/L NAA showed the highest indirect shoot proliferation (88.88%) efficiency. After being sub-cultured, the regenerated shootlets were cultured onto rooting medium containing different IAA/IBA concentrations; the best rooting percentage (94.44%) was achieved with 1.0 mg/L IBA. The biochemical parameters, like total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and DPPH scavenging activity, were measured. When compared to callus and field-grown developed leaf (donor) samples, all the biochemical characteristics of in vitro-produced leaf were noted to be higher. The methanolic extracts of leaf-callus and field-grown and in vitro-developed leaf tissues were subject to GC–MS-based phytocompound investigation. More than 45 therapeutically significant bioactive chemicals, like n-hexadecanoic acid, vitamin E, stigmasterol, and squalene were found in these samples. These results showed that the callus that is formed from in vitro leaf is a reliable and powerful source of several bioactive compounds with a wide range of medicinal uses. The successful stimulation of callus development, indirect organogenesis, biochemical analysis, and GC–MS confirmation of the presence of significant phytocompounds are all described in this study. This work provides a different avenue for ongoing and sustained synthesis of chemicals without endangering the surrounding ecosystem or native vegetation. Full article

The successful substitution of complex physiological fluids, such as human saliva, remains a major challenge in drug development. Although there are a large number of saliva substitutes on the market, their efficacy is often inadequate due to short residence time in the mouth, unpleasant mouthfeel, or insufficient protection of the teeth. Therefore, systems need to be identified that mimic the functions of saliva, in particular the salivary mucin MUC5B and the unique physiological properties of saliva. To this end, plant extracts known to contain hydrocolloid polysaccharides and to have mucus-forming properties were studied to evaluate their suitability as saliva substitutes. The aqueous plant extracts of Calendula officinalis, Fucus sp. thalli, and lichenan from Lichen islandicus were examined for composition using a range of techniques, including GC-MS, NMR, SEC, assessment of pH, osmolality, buffering capacity, viscoelasticity, viscoelastic interactions with human saliva, hydrocolloid network formation, and in vitro cell adhesion. For this purpose, a physiologically adapted adhesive test was developed using human buccal epithelial cells. The results show that lichenan is the most promising candidate to mimic the properties of MUC5B. By adjusting the pH, osmolality, and buffering capacity with K₂HPO₄, it was shown that lichenan exhibited high cell adhesion, with a maximum detachment force that was comparable to that of unstimulated whole mouth saliva. Full article

The use of natural active substances and the development of new formulations are promising directions in the cosmetic and pharmacy industries. The primary purpose of this research was the production of microparticles based on whey protein isolate (WPI) and calcium alginate (ALG) containing Calendula officinalis flower extract and their incorporation into films composed of gelatin, WPI, and glycerol. Both swollen and dry microparticles were studied by optical microscopy and their sizes were measured. Water absorption by the microparticles, their loading capacity, and the release profile of flower extract were also characterized. The films were analyzed by mechanical tests (Young’s modulus, tensile strength, elongation at break), swelling capacity, contact angle, and moisture content measurements. The presented data showed that the active ingredient was successfully enclosed in spherical microparticles and completely released after 75 min of incubation at 37 °C. The incorporation of the microparticles into polymer films caused a decrease in stiffness and tensile strength, simultaneously increasing the ductility of the samples. Moreover, the films containing microparticles displayed higher swelling ability and moisture content compared to those without them. Hence, the materials prepared in this study with Calendula officinalis flower extract encapsulated into polymeric microspheres can be a starting point for the development of new products intended for skin application; advantages include protection of the extract against external factors and a controlled release profile. Full article