Search Results (34)

This study aims to evaluate the effects of two phytobiotic mixtures on performance, nutrient digestibility, histomorphology, microbiota, and antioxidant status in fattening ducks. A total of 180 day-old male mixed-type ducks were randomly assigned to three dietary groups: a control group receiving a basal diet, and two treatment groups (PM1: commercial phytobiotic formulation containing menthol, eucalyptus oil and turmeric leaf oil as key ingredients and PM2: commercial phytobiotic formulation containing garlic oil as a key ingredient) supplemented at 250 g/ton of feed. Ducks were reared for 49 days with six replicates of ten ducks. Performance parameters, including body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), and average feed intake (AFI), were significantly improved in phytobiotic groups (p ≤ 0.05). Apparent digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, and starch remained unaffected (p > 0.05). Histological analysis showed no significant differences in villus height (VH) or crypt depth (CD). However, cecal microbiota culture-based analysis revealed increased total anerobic bacteria and Lactobacillus counts in PM1 and PM2 (p ≤ 0.05). Antioxidant status demonstrated reduced MDA levels and elevated total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in breast and thigh tissues of treated ducks. Overall, phytobiotic supplementation improved performance and microbiota balance, supporting the potential application of these phytobiotic formulations at the inclusion level of 250 g/ton in fattening ducks’ nutrition. Full article

Globally, the combined pollution of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and ground-level ozone (O₃) poses severe challenges to public health and sustainable urban development. Recent data indicate that the annual average PM_2.5 concentration in the vast majority of cities worldwide fails to meet World Health Organization safety standards, with air pollution causing millions of premature deaths annually. As a nature-based solution, the purification efficacy of vegetation remains poorly quantified due to unclear coupling mechanisms with local meteorological conditions. This study systematically reviewed and synthesized 229 empirical studies published between 2000 and 2025 from Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), aiming to clarify the quantitative relationships and regulatory mechanisms of plant–meteorological synergistic purification of PM_2.5–O₃. Following double-blind independent screening (κ = 0.85) and data extraction, a quantitative minimal feasible synthesis approach was adopted due to high data heterogeneity. The results indicated the following. (1) The median canopy purification efficiency of urban vegetation for PM_2.5 was 18.2% (IQR: 12.5–30.1%, n = 17), with a median dry deposition velocity (Vd–PM) of 0.05 cm s⁻¹ (0.02–30 cm s⁻¹, n = 15). The median dry deposition velocity (Vd–O₃) for O₃ was 0.55 cm s⁻¹ (0.12–1.82 cm s⁻¹, n = 8), with non-stomatal deposition contributing approximately 35%. (2) Meteorological factors exhibit nonlinear regulation: relative humidity (RH) > 70% significantly enhances PM_2.5 adsorption, wind speeds of 1.5–3.0 m s⁻¹ are optimal for PM_2.5 deposition, and temperatures > 30 °C generally inhibit plant uptake of both pollutants (n = 7). (3) Functional traits strongly correlate with purification efficacy: species with high leaf roughness (R² = 0.8), high stomatal conductance, and low BVOC emissions (e.g., Ginkgo biloba, Platycladus orientalis) exhibit optimal synergistic purification potential. Species with high BVOC emissions (Populus przewalskii, Eucalyptus robusta) can increase daily net O₃ pollution equivalents by up to 86 g and must be strictly avoided. Based on quantitative evidence, a green space planning decision matrix indexed by climate zone and pollution type was developed, specifying vegetation configuration patterns, functional group selection, and key design parameters (canopy closure, green belt width, etc.) for different scenarios. This study provides an actionable scientific basis for precision planning and climate-adaptive management of urban green infrastructure. Full article

The agar diffusion method was used to test the antibacterial activity of 12 plant species against Agrobacterium tumefaciens, the bacterium that is responsible for crown gall disease. Leaf, root, or flower extracts were prepared, but not all parts were used for each of the 12 plants listed. Plant extracts from leaves exhibited higher antibacterial activity than those from flowers and roots. Furthermore, the type of solvent had a significant influence on both the antibacterial activity and the flavonoid and polyphenol content. Acetone and alcohol extracts contained higher contents of these compounds than water extracts. The strongest bacteriostatic effect was of the leaf extracts of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus nicholii L.) and St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum L.). Based on HPTLC analysis, eucalyptus extracts contained, among others, chlorogenic acid, hyperoside, and quercetin, while St. John’s wort extracts contained rutin, hyperoside, and quercetin. The tansy leaf extracts (Tanacetum vulgare L.) were also rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, such as kaempferol-3-glucoside, luteolin, chlorogenic acid, cynarine, and rutin. However, a moderate inhibitory effect against the tested bacterium was found in tansy extracts, as well as hop (Humulus lupulus L.), wormwood (Artemisia absinthium L.), peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.), and nettle (Urtica dioica L.) extracts. The least effective were the root extracts of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wiggers coll.) and valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.), as well as the flower extracts of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) and marigold (Calendula officinalis L.). Given the lack of effective chemical products and the unavailability of commercially resistant cultivars, the use of plant-based extracts for protecting against crown gall appears to be of particular interest. The preliminary results are promising and suggest that eucalyptus and St. John’s wort extracts are the most promising for controlling A. tumefaciens. Full article

Ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) impose a heavy burden on South African livestock systems, particularly in resource-limited communal areas. Conventional acaricides are effective but face rising challenges of resistance, high costs, and concerns for environmental and human health. As a result, there is growing interest in plant-based tick control rooted in ethnoveterinary knowledge. This review examines the landscape of South African ethnoveterinary practices for tick control and assesses the supporting evidence of bioactivity and pathways for translating these remedies into safe, registered products. A narrative review method was applied, drawing on the literature (2000–2025) from databases and local repositories, with emphasis on South African studies documenting plant use against ticks. Communities in Limpopo, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and other provinces utilise a diverse range of botanicals (e.g., Lippia javanica, Tetradenia riparia, Clausena anisata, Tagetes minuta, Melia azedarach, Eucalyptus spp., Cymbopogon spp.) to repel or kill ticks, often through topical applications, fumigation, or livestock housing treatments. Laboratory assays have confirmed acaricidal or repellent activity in many of the cited taxa. For example, Lippia javanica and Tagetes minuta oils demonstrate strong tick repellency, while extracts of Tetradenia riparia and Calpurnia aurea exhibit greater than 70% mortality in vitro. Field studies are fewer but promising: a community-led trial with L. javanica leaf spray achieved substantial tick reduction (albeit slightly less efficacious than synthetic amitraz). Key gaps include standardisation of plant preparations, safety evaluations (toxicity and residue studies), and alignment with regulatory requirements. Recent regulatory updates in South Africa (Act 36 of 1947) underscore the need for quality, safety, and efficacy data but also create avenues for low-risk botanical remedies. Ethnoveterinary plants offer a culturally appropriate and eco-friendly complement to conventional acaricides. Bridging the gap to practical use will require multidisciplinary efforts: validating efficacy in well-designed field trials, ensuring consistency in preparation, assessing safety margins, and navigating registration pathways for plant-based stock remedies. With supportive policy and community engagement, South Africa could pioneer farmer-ready botanical acaricides that mitigate resistance, reduce costs, and advance One Health objectives. Full article

This study evaluated dried eucalyptus leaf extract and annatto seed extract as natural dyes for cotton, polyamide, and polyester knit fabrics. The eucalyptus leaf extract was obtained by aqueous boiling extraction, while the annatto seed extract was prepared in an alcoholic medium at 60 °C. Dyeing was carried out on fabrics mordanted with lemon juice and soy milk, using a cup dyeing machine with infrared (IR) heating at 98 °C for 30 min. SEM and FTIR analyses assessed the results regarding color intensity and color fastness. The findings indicate that both extracts can serve as sustainable alternatives for textile dyeing. Full article

This study explores the sustainable extraction and application of natural dyes from figs (Ficus carica) and Eucalyptus leaves using an aqueous alkaline medium. The dyeing process was optimized for cotton fabric using the exhaust-dyeing method. Fabrics dyed with Ficus carica extract and its blend with Eucalyptus exhibited enhanced color strength, excellent crocking fastness (rated 4–5), and good washing fastness (rated 3–4 on the gray scale). The use of Aloe barbadensis Miller as a bio-mordant significantly improved dye fixation, resulting in deeper, earthy shades, such as green, yellow–green, and yellowish brown. The highest K/S value (5.85) was recorded in samples treated with a mordant, sodium chloride (NaCl), and the combined dye extracts, indicating a synergistic effect among the components. Mosquito repellency tests revealed that treated fabrics exhibited up to 70% repellency, compared to just 20% in undyed samples. Antibacterial testing against E. coli showed that dyed fabrics achieved over 80% bacterial reduction after 24 h, indicating promising antimicrobial functionality. Air permeability slightly decreased post-dyeing due to the potential shrinkage in cotton fabrics. Furthermore, adsorption studies showed a removal efficiency of 57% for Ficus carica dye on graphene oxide (GO) under ultrasonication. These findings confirm the potential of GO as an effective adsorbent material for treating wastewater from natural textile dyes. Overall, the study highlights the environmental safety, functional performance, and multifunctional advantages of plant-based dyeing systems in sustainable textile applications. Full article

The present study aims to evaluate the mechanical properties, colorimetric characteristics, and decay resistance of Pinus elliottii woods treated with oxides synthesized via green chemistry. For this purpose, an aqueous extract from Eucalyptus dunnii leaves was used to synthesize particles based on copper- and zinc-based oxides, as well as a binary oxide system (CuO/ZnO). Sodium polyacrylate was employed as a dispersant, impregnating the oxides into the wood through a horizontal autoclave using a modified Bethell process, assisted by a compressor, applying a pressure of 0.8 MPa for 30 min. The exposure to weathering aging did not significantly alter the mechanical properties of the samples, but it caused the leaching of particles from the treated wood surface, as shown by colorimetric results. Regarding the decay resistance, the copper-based oxide proved to be the most effective treatment against Trametes versicolor (a white-rot fungus), reducing mass loss down to 1.2%. The CuO/ZnO formulation reduced the mass loss caused by Gloeophyllum trabeum to 1.1%, while the zinc oxide showed minimal efficacy. Thus, oxides synthesized via green chemistry using aqueous leaf extracts and mild thermal conditions for synthesis and calcination proved effective in enhancing the wood resistance against biotic deterioration agents. Full article

The present study reports the synthesis of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles on Pinus radiata sawdust (Fe₂O₃@PS) using a Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract. The morphology and structure of Fe₂O₃@PS were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance. The adsorption capacity of the system was evaluated by testing its ability to remove the Rhodamine B (RhB) dye. The optimization of the system was carried out using the Plackett–Burman design (PBD) and the response surface methodology (steepest ascent and the Box–Behnken design), which provided information on the main parameters affecting the adsorption process. The PBD results showed that the most important parameters for the removal of RhB using Fe₂O₃@PS were the removal time, the RhB concentration, and the initial pH of the system. The reusability of Fe₂O₃@PS under optimal conditions was tested and it was found to maintain its efficiency after five cycles of use. The efficiency and rate of RhB removal observed at pH values near 7.0 were found to be predominantly influenced by electrostatic interactions. In contrast, the analyses conducted at pH values near 8.3 exhibited reduced influence from electrostatic attractions, with π–π interactions and hydrogen bonds emerging as dominant forces. At pH values exceeding 8.3, all potential interactions between RhB and Fe₂O₃@PS exhibited diminished strength. This research provides valuable information on the formation of eco-friendly nanoparticles immobilized on a forest residue such as sawdust, which can effectively remove organic pollutants like RhB. This contributes to the valorization of resources and the search for solutions to water pollution. Full article

Recalcitrant compounds resulting from anthropogenic activity are a significant environmental challenge, necessitating the development of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for effective remediation. This study explores the synthesis of cuprous oxide nanoparticles on cellulose-based paper (Cu₂O@CBP) using Eucalyptus globulus leaf extracts, leveraging green synthesis techniques. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis found the average particle size 64.90 ± 16.76 nm, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy confirm the Cu₂O structure in nanoparticles; Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) suggests the reducing role of phenolic compounds; and ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS) allowed us to determine the band gap (2.73 eV), the energies of the valence band (2.19 eV), and the conduction band (−0.54 eV) of Cu₂O@CBP. The synthesized Cu₂O catalysts demonstrated efficient degradation of methylene blue (MB) used as a model as recalcitrant compounds under LED-driven visible light photocatalysis and heterogeneous Fenton-like reactions with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) using the degradation percentage and the first-order apparent degradation rate constant (k_app). The degradation efficiency of MB was pH-dependent, with neutral pH favoring photocatalysis (k_app = 0.00718 min⁻¹) due to enhanced hydroxyl (·OH) and superoxide radical (O₂·⁻) production, while acidic pH conditions improved Fenton-like reaction efficiency (k_app = 0.00812 min⁻¹) via ·OH. The reusability of the photocatalysts was also evaluated, showing a decline in performance for Fenton-like reactions at acidic pH about 22.76% after five cycles, while for photocatalysis at neutral pH decline about 11.44% after five cycles. This research provides valuable insights into the catalytic mechanisms and supports the potential of eco-friendly Cu₂O nanoparticles for sustainable wastewater treatment applications. Full article

Water pollution, particularly from organic contaminants like dyes, is a pressing issue, prompting exploration into advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) as potential solutions. This study focuses on synthesizing Cu₂O on cellulose-based fabric using Eucalyptus globulus leaf extracts. The resulting catalysts effectively degraded methylene blue through photocatalysis under LED visible light and heterogeneous Fenton-like reactions with H₂O₂, demonstrating reusability. Mechanistic insights were gained through analyses of the extracts before and after Cu₂O synthesis, revealing the role of phenolic compounds and reducing sugars in nanoparticle formation. Cu₂O nanoparticles on cellulose-based fabric were characterized in terms of their morphology, structure, and bandgap via SEM-EDS, XRD, Raman, FTIR, UV–Vis DRS, and TGA. The degradation of methylene blue was pH-dependent; photocatalysis was more efficient at neutral pH due to hydroxyl and superoxide radical production, while Fenton-like reactions showed greater efficiency at acidic pH, primarily generating hydroxyl radicals. Cu₂O used in Fenton-like reactions exhibited lower reusability compared to photocatalysis, suggesting deterioration. This research not only advances understanding of catalytic processes but also holds promise for sustainable water treatment solutions, contributing to environmental protection and resource conservation. Full article

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with pruritus, an impaired cutaneous barrier function and a disrupted water holding capacity. Levels of ceramides, which are major components of intercellular lipids and are crucial for their functions, are decreased in the stratum corneum of patients with AD. Treatments to increase ceramide levels are effective for AD care. Synthetic pseudo-ceramide (cetyl PG hydroxyethyl palmitamide (SLE66)), which has a structure developed via molecular designs, and a eucalyptus leaf extract (ELE) enhance ceramide synthesis in the epidermis. The topical application of a skin moisturizer containing SLE66 and ELE improves the barrier functions and water holding capacity of AD skin accompanied by an improvement in skin symptoms. This is a multifaceted review that summarizes the efficacy of the topical application of a skin moisturizer containing SLE66 and ELE on atopic dermatitis. Full article

Eucalyptus globulus is widely introduced and cultivated in Yunnan province. Its foliage is mainly used to extract eucalyptus oil, but the by-product eucalyptus residue has not been fully utilized. Based on the above reasons, in this study, we sought to explore the comprehensive utilization potential of eucalyptus resources. The total composition of eucalyptus residue was analyzed by ultra performance liquid chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF MS), and the active components and nutrient components of eucalyptus leaf residue were determined by chemical methods and liquid phase techniques. Meanwhile, the antitumor activity of triterpenoids in eucalyptus leaves was evaluated by tetramethylazazole blue colorimetric assay (MTT). The results of qualitative analysis indicated that 55 compounds were identified from eucalyptus residue, including 28 phloroglucinols, 17 terpenoids, 3 flavonoids, 5 fatty acids, 1 amino acid and 2 polyphenols. Among them, the pentacyclic triterpenoids, in eucalyptus residue, were mainly oleanane type and urthane type. The results of quantitative determination indicated that the content of triterpenoid compounds was 2.84% in eucalyptus residue, which could be enhanced to 82% by silicone separation. The antitumor activity results showed that triterpenoid compounds have moderate inhibitory effects on human breast cancer cell MDA-MB-231, gastric adenocarcinoma cell SGC-7901 and cervical cancer cell Hela. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) was 50.67, 43.12 and 42.65 μg/mL, respectively. In this study, the triterpenoids from eucalyptus leaf residues were analyzed to reveal that the triterpenoids from eucalyptus leaf have antitumor effects and have potential to be developed as antitumor drugs. Full article

In the present study, an iron(II)-nanoscale organic complex (Fe-NO) was used as an enhancement factor by two different Rhodopseudomonas species of purple non-sulphur bacteria (PNSB) to produce hydrogen (H₂). The Fe-NO complex was synthesised using FeSO₄·7H₂O and Eucalyptus viminalis—a native Australian plant leaf extract—in a 1:2 and 2:1 concentration ratio. Besides, FeSO₄·7H₂O was also used as a source of iron(II) for comparison with the Fe-NO complex. The photo-fermentative bacterial cultures were isolated from a fishpond, and only two strains, MP3 and SP6, were found viable after several attempts of quadrate streaking. After phylogenetic analysis, these strains were designated as R. palustris MP3 and R. harwoodiae SP6. After comparison with the control, the results showed that the PNSBs manifested an approximately 50% higher H₂ yield when the 1:2 Fe-NO complex was used in the fermentation broth at 10 mg/L concentration, where 10.7 ± 0.54 and 10.0 ± 0.49 mL H₂/L were obtained by R. palustris MP3 and R. harwoodiae SP6, respectively. The study revealed that the 1:2 Fe-NO complex could be an important material for efficient H₂ production. Full article

As available tools for crop disease management are scarce, new, effective, and eco-friendly solutions are needed. So, this study aimed at assessing the antibacterial activity of a dried leaf Eucalyptus globulus Labill. aqueous extract (DLE) against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst), Xanthomonas euvesicatoria (Xeu), and Clavibacter michiganensis michiganensis (Cmm). For this, the inhibitory activity of different concentrations of DLE (0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105, 120, 135, and 250 g L⁻¹) was monitored against the type strains of Pst, Xeu, and Cmm through the obtention of their growth curves. After 48 h, results showed that the pathogen growth was strongly inhibited by DLE, with Xeu the most susceptible species (15 g L⁻¹ MIC and IC₅₀), followed by Pst (30 g L⁻¹ MIC and IC₅₀), and Cmm (45 and 35 g L⁻¹ MIC and IC₅₀, respectively). Additionally, using the resazurin assay, it was possible to verify that DLE considerably impaired cell viability by more than 86%, 85%, and 69% after Pst, Xeu, and Cmm were incubated with DLE concentrations equal to or higher than their MIC, respectively. However, only the treatment with DLE at 120 g L⁻¹ did not induce any hypersensitive response in all pathogens when treated bacterial suspensions were infiltrated onto tobacco leaves. Overall, DLE can represent a great strategy for the prophylactic treatment of tomato-associated bacterial diseases or reduce the application of environmentally toxic approaches. Full article

Over the past several years, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have been extensively studied in water treatment and sensing applications because of their exceptional structure-related properties, intrinsic inert carbon property, eco-friendly nature, etc. This work reported on the preparation of GQDs from the ethanolic extracts of eucalyptus tree leaves by a hydrothermal treatment technique. Different heat treatment times and temperatures were used during the hydrothermal treatment technique. The optical, morphological, and compositional analyses of the green-synthesized GQDs were carried out. It can be noted that the product yield of GQDs showed the maximum yield at a reaction temperature of 300 °C. Further, it was noted that at a treatment period of 480 min, the greatest product yield of about 44.34% was attained. The quantum yields of prepared GQDs obtained after 480 min of treatment at 300 °C (named as GQD/300) were noted to be 0.069. Moreover, the D/G ratio of GQD/300 was noted to be 0.532 and this suggested that the GQD/300 developed has a nano-crystalline graphite structure. The TEM images demonstrated the development of GQD/300 with sizes between 2.0 to 5.0 nm. Furthermore, it was noted that the GQD/300 can detect Fe³⁺ in a very selective manner, and hence the developed GQD/300 was successfully used for the metal ion sensing application. Full article