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Keywords = frankincense oil

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18 pages, 5591 KiB  
Article
Pharmacological Investigation of Tongqiao Jiuxin Oil Against High-Altitude Hypoxia: Integrating Chemical Profiling, Network Pharmacology, and Experimental Validation
by Jiamei Xie, Yang Yang, Yuhang Du, Xiaohua Su, Yige Zhao, Yongcheng An, Xin Mao, Menglu Wang, Ziyi Shan, Zhiyun Huang, Shuchang Liu and Baosheng Zhao
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081153 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 174
Abstract
Background: Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening condition caused by rapid exposure to high-altitude hypoxia, affecting pulmonary and neurological functions. Tongqiao Jiuxin Oil (TQ), a traditional Chinese medicine formula composed of aromatic and resinous ingredients such as sandalwood, [...] Read more.
Background: Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening condition caused by rapid exposure to high-altitude hypoxia, affecting pulmonary and neurological functions. Tongqiao Jiuxin Oil (TQ), a traditional Chinese medicine formula composed of aromatic and resinous ingredients such as sandalwood, agarwood, frankincense, borneol, and musk, has been widely used in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders. Clinical observations suggest its potential efficacy against AMS, yet its pharmacological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methods: The chemical profile of TQ was characterized using UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap HRMS. Network pharmacology was applied to predict the potential targets and pathways involved in AMS. A rat model of AMS was established by exposing animals to hypobaric hypoxia (~10% oxygen), simulating an altitude of approximately 5500 m. TQ was administered at varying doses. Physiological indices, oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, GSH), histopathological changes, and the expression of hypoxia- and apoptosis-related proteins (HIF-1α, VEGFA, EPO, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3) in lung and brain tissues were assessed. Results: A total of 774 chemical constituents were identified from TQ. Network pharmacology predicted the involvement of multiple targets and pathways. TQ significantly improved arterial oxygenation and reduced histopathological damage in both lung and brain tissues. It enhanced antioxidant activity by elevating SOD and GSH levels and reducing MDA content. Mechanistically, TQ downregulated the expression of HIF-1α, VEGFA, EPO, and pro-apoptotic markers (Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, Caspase-3), while upregulated Bcl-2, the anti-apoptotic protein expression. Conclusions: TQ exerts protective effects against AMS-induced tissue injury by improving oxygen homeostasis, alleviating oxidative stress, and modulating hypoxia-related and apoptotic signaling pathways. This study provides pharmacological evidence supporting the potential of TQ as a promising candidate for AMS intervention, as well as the modern research method for multi-component traditional Chinese medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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29 pages, 9171 KiB  
Article
Anti-Tumor Potential of Frankincense Essential Oil and Its Nano-Formulation in Breast Cancer: An In Vivo and In Vitro Study
by Nouran Mohamed, Hisham Ismail, Ghada M. Nasr, Shaimaa Abdel-Ghany, Borros Arneth and Hussein Sabit
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(4), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17040426 - 27 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1575
Abstract
Background/Objective: Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women worldwide, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. Many anti-cancer drugs have been derived from medicinal plants, and frankincense from Boswellia carterii is notable for its anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Using gas [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women worldwide, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. Many anti-cancer drugs have been derived from medicinal plants, and frankincense from Boswellia carterii is notable for its anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), 48 components were identified in B. carterii essential oil, and the major constituent was α-pinene (35.81%). Method: In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of frankincense essential oil (FEO) and its nano-formulation with chitosan (FEO-CSNPs) using in vitro breast cancer models (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cells) and in vivo mouse mammary carcinoma (4T1) models (Balb/c). Results: The results showed significant reductions in cell viability. At 10 μg/mL, the FEO showed the highest reduction in the C-166 cells, while at 100 μg/mL, the FEO exhibited a stronger cytotoxicity in the MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells compared to the FEO-CSNPs and CSNPs. The FEO-CSNPs exhibited cell growth arrest in the S, G2/M, and G1/S phases in the MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cell lines (36.91%, 23.12%, and 33.58%), in addition to increased apoptosis rates in the MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cell lines (33.04%, 36.39%, and 42.19%). The wound healing assays revealed a decreased migratory ability in the treated cells. The in vivo experiments in the balb/c mice demonstrated a reduction in the tumor volume, with a histopathological analysis confirming extensive tumor necrosis. Moreover, the FEO and FEO-CSNPs showed notable antioxidant and arginase activity. The gene expression analysis via qPCR indicated the upregulation of tumor suppressor genes and the downregulation of oncogenes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that FEO and its nano-formulation, particularly in the form of FEO-CSNPs as an oral formulation, display enhanced efficacy, warranting further preclinical and clinical research to develop innovative treatment strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Nanoparticle for Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 1773 KiB  
Article
Protective Effects of Frankincense Oil on Wound Healing: Downregulating Caspase-3 Expression to Facilitate the Transition from the Inflammatory to Proliferative Phase
by Krishnaraju Venkatesan, Durgaramani Sivadasan, Moufida Abderrahmen Al Weslati, Mohammed Gayasuddin Mouid, Manoj Goyal, Monika Bansal, Mohamed EL-Dosoky Mohamed Salama, Syed Azizullah Ghori and Fazil Ahmad
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030407 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3264
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Wound healing is a complex process involving inflammation, oxidative stress, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. Frankincense essential oil (FEO), derived from Boswellia species, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and therapeutic properties. This study investigates the protective effects of FEO in an [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Wound healing is a complex process involving inflammation, oxidative stress, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. Frankincense essential oil (FEO), derived from Boswellia species, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and therapeutic properties. This study investigates the protective effects of FEO in an excision wound model in rats, focusing on oxidative stress reduction, inflammatory cytokine modulation, and caspase-3 regulation. Methods: The chemical composition of FEO was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Rats with excision wounds were treated with FEO, and its efficacy was assessed using biochemical and histological analyses. Caspase-3 expression, IL-1β, TNF-α, and CD68 levels were measured, along with oxidative stress markers. Wound contraction, epithelialization and collagen synthesis were also evaluated. Immunohistochemical and histopathological assessments were performed to analyze inflammatory infiltration and tissue remodeling. Results: FEO, rich in alpha-phellandrene (10.52%) and limonene (7.31%), significantly downregulated caspase-3, reducing apoptosis in the wound environment. It also lowered IL-1β and TNF-α levels, confirming anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, FEO modulated CD68 expression, shifting the wound environment from inflammatory to healing. The oil antioxidant activity reduced oxidative stress, limiting caspase-3-mediated apoptosis and enhancing cell survival. FEO treatment accelerated wound contraction, improved epithelialization, and increased collagen synthesis. Histological analysis revealed reduced inflammatory infiltration and enhanced tissue remodeling. Conclusions: FEO integrates anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms to promote wound healing and tissue repair. Its ability to modulate caspase-3, IL-1β, TNF-α, CD68, and oxidative stress markers along with its major constituents such as alpha-phellandrene and limonene highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for wound management and regenerative medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
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14 pages, 1208 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Bioactivity of Essential Oils: Cytotoxic/Genotoxic Effects on Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines, Antibacterial Activity, and Survival of Lactic Acid Bacteria
by Katarína Kozics, Monika Mesárošová, Monika Šramková, Mária Bučková, Andrea Puškárová, Dominika Galová and Domenico Pangallo
Molecules 2025, 30(4), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30040890 - 14 Feb 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1380
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the most frequently diagnosed malignancies and is associated with a significantly high mortality rate. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward naturally derived substances with anticancer properties. In our study, we focused on determining the biological [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the most frequently diagnosed malignancies and is associated with a significantly high mortality rate. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward naturally derived substances with anticancer properties. In our study, we focused on determining the biological and antibacterial effects of selected essential oils (EOs)—peppermint, oregano, tea tree, lemon, lavender, frankincense, and oil blends (Zengest and OnGuard). Analyses were performed on human colon carcinoma cell lines (HCT-116 and HT-29). The cytotoxic (MTT assay), genotoxic effects (comet assay), and reactive oxygen species levels (ROS-Glo™ H2O2 Assay) of EOs and oil blends were determined. In our study, we found that all of the studied oils have the potential cyto/genotoxic effects on CRC cell lines after 24 h exposure. The results revealed that oregano, Zengest, and frankincense showed statistically the highest cytotoxic effects [IC50 0.05 µg/mL] compared to the other studied oils. These oils induced DNA damage and also increased ROS levels. On the other hand, peppermint was shown to have the lowest cytotoxic effect [IC50 0.67 µg/mL] on the HT-29 cell line. We also evaluated the antibacterial effects of oregano, tea tree, and the OnGuard blend, determining their impact on the viability of beneficial bacteria models, including Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus pentosus, and Weizmannia coagulans. Oregano exhibited strong antibacterial activity, with an inhibition zone of 31 mm, while tea tree and OnGuard showed inhibition zones ranging from 12 to 15 mm. The EOs (oregano, tea tree, OnGuard) demonstrated antibacterial effects, with MICs ranging from 0.05 to 0.5 µg/mL. Peppermint, lemon, lavender, frankincense, and the Zengest blend did not inhibit the growth of lactic acid bacteria or W. coagulans, and thus did not impact bacterial survival. On the other hand, they demonstrated potential anticancer effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activity of Plant Extracts)
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24 pages, 2001 KiB  
Review
Aromatherapy and Essential Oils: Holistic Strategies in Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Integral Wellbeing
by Karina Caballero-Gallardo, Patricia Quintero-Rincón and Jesus Olivero-Verbel
Plants 2025, 14(3), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14030400 - 29 Jan 2025
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8573
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses a variety of ancient therapies with origins in cultures such as those of China, Egypt, Greece, Iran, India, and Rome. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) classifies these integrative therapies into five categories: (1) mind–body therapies, (2) [...] Read more.
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses a variety of ancient therapies with origins in cultures such as those of China, Egypt, Greece, Iran, India, and Rome. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) classifies these integrative therapies into five categories: (1) mind–body therapies, (2) biological practices, (3) manipulative and body practices, (4) energy medicine, and (5) whole medical systems, including traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. This review explores the role of biological practices utilizing aromatic plants, particularly through inhalation aromatherapy and massage with essential oils, as effective complementary strategies within health systems. The review compiles information on the most commonly used plants and essential oils for holistic health maintenance from a complementary and alternative perspective. Given their accessibility and relative safety compared to conventional treatments, these therapies have gained popularity worldwide. Furthermore, the integration of essential oils has been shown to alleviate various psychological and physiological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep disorders, neuropathic pain, nausea, and menopausal symptoms. Among the studied plants, lavender has emerged as being particularly notable due to its broad spectrum of therapeutic effects and its designation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as “Generally Recognized as Safe”. Other essential oils under investigation include eucalyptus, damask rose, sandalwood, vetiver, calamus, frankincense, chamomile, lemon, grapefruit, tangerine, orange, sage, rosemary, garlic, and black pepper. This study emphasizes the potential benefits of these aromatic plants in enhancing patient well-being. Additionally, it underscores the importance of conducting further research to ensure the safety and efficacy of these therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Plant Extracts)
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21 pages, 4632 KiB  
Article
Eco-Friendly Preservation of Pharaonic Wooden Artifacts using Natural Green Products
by Neveen S. Geweely, Amira M. Abu Taleb, Paola Grenni, Giulia Caneva, Dina M. Atwa, Jasper R. Plaisier and Shimaa Ibrahim
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5023; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125023 - 9 Jun 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2211
Abstract
The biodeterioration of wooden cultural heritage is a severe problem worldwide and fungi are the main deteriorating agents. The identification of effective natural products, safer for humans and the environment, is a current challenge. Ten deteriorated archaeological objects (a wooden statue of a [...] Read more.
The biodeterioration of wooden cultural heritage is a severe problem worldwide and fungi are the main deteriorating agents. The identification of effective natural products, safer for humans and the environment, is a current challenge. Ten deteriorated archaeological objects (a wooden statue of a seated man, an anthropoid wooden coffin with a cartonnage mummy of Nespathettawi, and a wooden box of Padimen’s son), stored at the Egyptian museum in Cairo, were considered here. The wood species of the three most deteriorated objects were previously identified as Acacia nilotica, Ficus sycomorus, and Tamarix gennessarensis. Twenty-six fungal species were isolated and identified from the wooden objects and the four most frequent species belonged to the genus Aspergillus. Fourteen fungal species among those isolated showed the greatest biodeterioration activity on the experimental wood blocks of the archaeological objects. The antifungal activities of several eco-friendly plant essential oils (from cinnamon, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, menthe, rosemary, tea tree, and thyme) and plant extracts (from basil, eucalyptus, henna, melia, and teak) were tested against the fungal species with the greatest biodeterioration activity. The essential oils (Eos) were more effective than the plant extracts. Thyme EO, followed by geranium and cinnamon ones, was the most active (minimum inhibitory concentrations: 0.25–1 µL/mL). These EO; also showed inhibitory effects on the enzymatic activities (cellulase, amylase, and protease) of the four most dominant fungal species. Thymol and p-cymene were the two main components of thyme oil, while geraniol and beta-citronellol were those of geranium oil; eugenol and caryophyllene were those of the cinnamon EO. Thyme oil applied to the most deteriorated experimental aged A. nilotica wooden cubes inoculated with the four highly frequent fungal species was effective in wood preservation. Moreover, no significant interference was observed in the wood before and after thyme treatment. Thyme oil seems to be a promising eco-friendly antifungal agent for the preservation of archaeological wooden artefacts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Microbiology)
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38 pages, 759 KiB  
Review
The Therapeutic Potential of Essential Oils in Managing Inflammatory Skin Conditions: A Scoping Review
by Anouk E. W. K. Dontje, Catharina C. M. Schuiling-Veninga, Florence P. A. M. van Hunsel, Corine Ekhart, Fatih Demirci and Herman J. Woerdenbag
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050571 - 29 Apr 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5499
Abstract
Conventional therapy is commonly used for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, but undesirable effects, such as erythema, dryness, skin thinning, and resistance to treatment, may cause poor patient compliance. Therefore, patients may seek complementary treatment with herbal plant products including essential oils [...] Read more.
Conventional therapy is commonly used for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, but undesirable effects, such as erythema, dryness, skin thinning, and resistance to treatment, may cause poor patient compliance. Therefore, patients may seek complementary treatment with herbal plant products including essential oils (EOs). This scoping review aims to generate a broad overview of the EOs used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, namely, acne vulgaris, dermatitis and eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, in a clinical setting. The quality, efficacy, and safety of various EOs, as well as the way in which they are prepared, are reviewed, and the potential, as well as the limitations, of EOs for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions are discussed. Twenty-nine eligible studies (case studies, uncontrolled clinical studies, and randomized clinical studies) on the applications of EOs for inflammatory skin conditions were retrieved from scientific electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library). As an initial result, tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil emerged as the most studied EO. The clinical studies with tea tree oil gel for acne treatment showed an efficacy with fewer adverse reactions compared to conventional treatments. The uncontrolled studies indicated the potential efficacy of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) oil, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) oil, and cedarwood (Cedrus libani) oil in the treatment of acne, but further research is required to reach conclusive evidence. The placebo-controlled studies revealed the positive effects of kānuka (Kunzea ericoides) oil and frankincense (Boswellia spp.) oil in the treatment of psoriasis and eczema. The quality verification of the EO products was inconsistent, with some studies lacking analyses and transparency. The quality limitations of some studies included a small sample size, a short duration, and the absence of a control group. This present review underscores the need for extended, well-designed clinical studies to further assess the efficacy and safety of EOs for treating inflammatory skin conditions with products of assured quality and to further elucidate the mechanisms of action involved. Full article
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14 pages, 967 KiB  
Article
Plant Essential Oils: Dual Action of Toxicity and Egg-Laying Inhibition on Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae), Unveiling Their Potential as Botanical Pesticides
by Yijing Zhu, Taoqi Wu, Qianyu Hu, Wenze He, Yushi Zheng, Yongjian Xie, Qiong Rao and Xunyue Liu
Plants 2024, 13(6), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13060763 - 8 Mar 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2814
Abstract
Tetranychus urticae, a prominent pest mite in strawberry and vegetable cultivation in China, has developed escalating resistance due to extensive chemical pesticide application. Consequently, there is an urgent need to identify safe and efficacious methods to reduce resistance development. In this study, [...] Read more.
Tetranychus urticae, a prominent pest mite in strawberry and vegetable cultivation in China, has developed escalating resistance due to extensive chemical pesticide application. Consequently, there is an urgent need to identify safe and efficacious methods to reduce resistance development. In this study, 38 commercially available plant essential oils (EOs) were screened for their acaricidal potential and ability to inhibit oviposition. The findings revealed that 13 EOs exhibited notable acaricidal activity, with lemon EO demonstrating the highest toxicity, followed by sage, patchouli, frankincense, lemongrass, palmarosa, and oregano EOs. In addition, 18 EOs displayed significant inhibitory effects on oviposition, with lemon EO exhibiting the highest inhibition rate (99.15%) and inhibition index (0.98). Subsequently, sage, frankincense, clove, lemongrass, oregano, patchouli, myrrh, black pepper, palmarosa, and geranium EOs also showed inhibition rates exceeding 50%. Despite black pepper, clove, myrrh, and oregano EOs demonstrating relatively low toxicity against T. urticae, they exhibited heightened efficacy in inhibiting oviposition and suppressing population expansion. This study conducted a comparative assessment of the acaricidal and oviposition inhibition activities of EOs and their principal constituents, thus providing a theoretical basis for the development of botanical acaricides against T. urticae. Full article
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19 pages, 1991 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Activity of Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) Oil and Smoke against Pathogenic and Airborne Microbes
by Zahra S. Al-Kharousi, Ann S. Mothershaw and Basil Nzeako
Foods 2023, 12(18), 3442; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12183442 - 15 Sep 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 8296
Abstract
As they continuously evolve, plants will remain a renewable source for antimicrobial compounds. Omani frankincense is produced by B. sacra trees and is graded into Hojari, Nejdi, Shazri or Sha’bi. Air can be a source for pathogenic or food spoilage microbes; thus, inactivating [...] Read more.
As they continuously evolve, plants will remain a renewable source for antimicrobial compounds. Omani frankincense is produced by B. sacra trees and is graded into Hojari, Nejdi, Shazri or Sha’bi. Air can be a source for pathogenic or food spoilage microbes; thus, inactivating airborne microbes is necessary in environments such as food and animal production areas. This study investigated the antimicrobial activity and the chemistry of steam-distilled oils of Hojari and Sha’bi grades. It also analyzed the antimicrobial activity of frankincense smoke and the size of its solid particles. Chemical analysis was performed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antimicrobial activity of the oils against Staphylococcus aureus (NCTC 6571), Bacillus spp., Escherichia coli (NCTC 10418), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (NCTC 10662), Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida albicans, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium citrinum, Alternaria alternata and Fusarium solani was determined using well diffusion and micro-well dilution methods. A microscopic technique was used to determine the size of frankincense smoke solid particles. Microbes were exposed to frankincense smoke to test their susceptibility to the smoke. Hojari and Sha’bi oils were similar in composition and contained monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. The Hojari and the Sha’bi oils possessed broad spectrum antimicrobial activity. The largest growth inhibition zones were obtained with S. cerevisiae and F. solani. An MIC of 1.56% (v/v) was found with E. coli, S. cerevisiae and F. solani. Frankincense smoke contained fine irregular solid particles with a diameter range of 0.8–2287.4 µm, and thus may pose a health risk to susceptible individuals. The smoke had potent antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and airborne bacteria, yeast and mold, with a maximum inhibition of 100%. It was concluded that Hojari and Sha’bi frankincense oils and smoke had significant antimicrobial activity that can be exploited in controlling human, animal and plant pathogenic microbes. Full article
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10 pages, 269 KiB  
Article
Residual Cough and Asthma-like Symptoms Post-COVID-19 in Children
by Abdullah Al-Shamrani, Khalid Al-Shamrani, Maram Al-Otaibi, Ayed Alenazi, Hareth Aldosaimani, Zeyad Aldhalaan, Haleimah Alalkami, Abdullah A. Yousef, Sumayyah Kobeisy and Saleh Alharbi
Children 2023, 10(6), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10061031 - 8 Jun 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3350
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread worldwide and is characterized by different presentations ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia. COVID-19 affects all age groups, including pediatric patients. We observed numerous children complaining of a cough post-COVID-19, even if it was trivial. [...] Read more.
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread worldwide and is characterized by different presentations ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia. COVID-19 affects all age groups, including pediatric patients. We observed numerous children complaining of a cough post-COVID-19, even if it was trivial. The most reported persistent symptoms after recovery from COVID-19 were insomnia, coughing, fatigue, dyspnea, loss of taste and/or smell, and headache. To date, residual cough post-COVID-19 has been reported in pediatrics and adolescents. Method: we conducted a retrospective study, with a self-administered questionnaire by the patient or caregiver, 12 months post-COVID-19-infection. Result: A total of 94.8% of patients were Saudi citizens and were mainly from the southern region of Saudi Arabia (50.0%). Mothers (64.4%) submitted most of the results. The ages were as follows: 6–14 years (51.0%), 3–5 years (32.3%), and younger than 2 years of age (only 16.7%). Females accounted for 41.7% of those studied. Nearly half of the patients (48.5%) had had a previous COVID-19 infection in 2022, with only 2.1% infected in 2019. Only 27/194 (13.9%) patients required hospital admission, and 7 of them (4.2%) required intensive care treatment. A total of 179 (92.2%) patients still reported persistent symptoms 4 weeks post-COVID-19-infection. A cough was reported in 69.8% of patients, followed by cough and wheezing in 12.3%. The cough was described as dry in 78.0% and nocturnal in 54.1%, while 42.5% did not notice any diurnal variation. For those reporting residual cough, 39.3% found that it affected school attendance and daily activities, 31.1% reported associated chest pain, 51.9% associated it with wheezing, and 27.1% associated it with shortness of breath. For 54.4%, the residual cough lasted less than one month, while 31.4% reported a 1–2 month duration. Only 1.0% had a duration of cough of more than 3 months. For cough relief, 28.2% used bronchodilators, 19.9% used cough syrup, 16.6% used a combination of bronchodilators and steroid inhalers, and 1.7% used antibiotics. Surprisingly, 33% attempted herbal remedies for cough relief. Sesame oil was used the most (40.0%), followed by a mixture of olive oil and sesame oil (25.0%), and 21.7% used male frankincense. The majority (78.4%) sought medical advice for their post-infection cough, either from general pediatricians (39.5%) or via specialist pediatric pulmonology consultations (30.9%). A total of 11.0% with a residual cough reported having pets at home, while 27.2% reported secondhand smoke exposure in the household. Before infection with COVID-19, only 32.6% were diagnosed with asthma, while 68.2% reported a diagnosis of atopic skin. Conclusions: There was a high prevalence of residual cough post-COVID-19, extended for a minimum of two months, and the characteristics of the cough were very similar to those of asthmatic patients. There was still a high prevalence of using cough syrup and herbal remedies, especially olive oil, sesame oil, and male frankincense. A residual cough adversely affected school attendance in daily activities, and there was a high prevalence of other siblings in the family being affected. The study showed that a minority of patients were seen by the pulmonologist; luckily, long COVID was rare in our study, and so further studies are highly needed to confirm the association with asthma. More educational programs are highly needed regarding herbal remedies and cough syrup. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 and Pediatric Emergency Medicine)
16 pages, 1295 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Potential of Boswellia rivae to Provide Sustainable Livelihood Benefits in Eastern Ethiopia
by Anjanette DeCarlo, Stephen Johnson, Abdinasir Abdikadir, Prabodh Satyal, Ambika Poudel and William N. Setzer
Plants 2023, 12(10), 2024; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12102024 - 18 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3451
Abstract
Frankincense is an oleo-gum-resin collected from wild Boswellia spp. trees, and widely used in perfumery, cosmetics, aromatherapy, incense, and other industries. Boswellia rivae, growing in Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya, is one source of frankincense, but is little-commercialized compared to species such as [...] Read more.
Frankincense is an oleo-gum-resin collected from wild Boswellia spp. trees, and widely used in perfumery, cosmetics, aromatherapy, incense, and other industries. Boswellia rivae, growing in Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya, is one source of frankincense, but is little-commercialized compared to species such as B. sacra, B. frereana, and B. papyrifera. In this study, we examine the resin essential oil chemistry and harvesting systems of B. rivae in order to evaluate its potential for increased trade and potential positive livelihood benefits. Boswellia rivae produces an essential oil rich in α-thujene (0.1–12.4%), α-pinene (5.5–56.4%), β-pinene (0.3–13.0%), δ-3-carene (0.1–31.5%), p-cymene (1.4–31.2%), limonene (1.8–37.3%), β-phellandrene (tr-5.6%), trans-pinocarveol (0.1–5.0%), trans-verbenol (0.1–11.2%), and trans-β-elemene (0–5.7%), similar to major commercial species, although it is difficult to detect mixing of B. rivae and Commiphora africana resins from chemistry alone. The B. rivae trees are not actively tapped, so resin collection has a neutral impact on the health of the trees, and resin production is unaffected by drought. Consequently, collecting resins acts as a key income supplementing livestock herding, as well as a safety net protecting pastoral communities from the severe negative effects of climate change-exacerbated drought on livestock. Therefore, Boswellia rivae is well positioned chemically, ecologically, and socially to support expanded trade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)
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17 pages, 1930 KiB  
Article
Dietary Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) Oil Modulates the Growth, Intestinal Morphology, the Fatty Acid Composition of Breast Muscle, Immune Status, and Immunoexpression of CD3 and CD20 in Broiler Chickens
by Shimaa A. Amer, Ahmed Gouda, Gehan K. Saleh, Arwa H. Nassar, Abdel-Wahab A. Abdel-Warith, Elsayed M. Younis, Dalia E. Altohamy, Maha S. Kilany, Simon J. Davies and Anaam E. Omar
Animals 2023, 13(6), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13060971 - 7 Mar 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5984
Abstract
This investigation explored the impact of dietary frankincense resin oil (FO) on growth performance parameters, intestinal histomorphology, fatty acid composition of the breast muscle, and the immune status of broilers. We allotted 400, three-day-old, male chicks (Ross 308 broiler) into four treatment groups [...] Read more.
This investigation explored the impact of dietary frankincense resin oil (FO) on growth performance parameters, intestinal histomorphology, fatty acid composition of the breast muscle, and the immune status of broilers. We allotted 400, three-day-old, male chicks (Ross 308 broiler) into four treatment groups (ten replicates/group; ten chicks/replicate). They were fed a basal diet with different concentrations of FO (0, 200, 400, and 600 mg kg−1). FO supplementation increased the overall body weight (BW) and body weight gain (BWG) by different amounts, linearly improving the feed conversion ratio with the in-supplementation level. Total feed intake (TFI) was not affected. Growth hormones and total serum protein levels also linearly increased with the FO level, while albumin was elevated in the FO600 group. Moreover, total globulins increased linearly in FO400 and FO600 treatment groups. Thyroxin hormone (T3 and T4) levels increased in all FO treatment groups without affecting glucose and leptin serum values. Different concentrations of FO supplementation in the diet increased the activities of Complement 3, lysozyme, and interleukin 10 levels in the serum. Dietary FO in broilers increased the total percentage of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids. It also increased the ratio of n-3 to n-6 linearly and quadratically. Additionally, FO supplementation led to the upregulation of immune clusters of differentiation 3 and 20 (CD3 and CD20) in the spleen, along with improving most of the morphometric measures of the small intestine. In conclusion, FO up to 600 mg kg−1 as a feed additive in broiler chicken production is valuable for promoting their growth, intestinal histomorphology, and immune status along with enriching breast muscle with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Feeding and Nutrition in Poultry Production)
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19 pages, 1988 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Insect Properties of Boswellia carterii Essential Oil for Food Preservation Improvement
by Petra Borotová, Natália Čmiková, Lucia Galovičová, Nenad L. Vukovic, Milena D. Vukic, Eva Tvrdá, Przemysław Łukasz Kowalczewski, Maciej Ireneusz Kluz, Czeslaw Puchalski, Marianna Schwarzová, Ladislav Bakay and Miroslava Kačániová
Horticulturae 2023, 9(3), 333; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9030333 - 3 Mar 2023
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5909
Abstract
Boswellia carterii, known as frankincense, is a fragrant medicinal plant. The essential oil from this plant is often used in traditional medicine or aromatherapy. Due to its positive properties, it has potential applications as an antimicrobial agent in medicine and the food [...] Read more.
Boswellia carterii, known as frankincense, is a fragrant medicinal plant. The essential oil from this plant is often used in traditional medicine or aromatherapy. Due to its positive properties, it has potential applications as an antimicrobial agent in medicine and the food industry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial, anti-insect, and antioxidant activities of frankincense essential oil (FEO). The composition of volatile compounds was determined by GC/MS, and the main components were found to be α-pinene (37.0%), α-limonene (19.8%), and p-cymene (6.3%). The antioxidant activity was evaluated with DPPH and ABTS methods with the resulting inhibition of 73.88 ± 0.35% of DPPH radical (6.27 ± 0.17 TEAC) and 97.09 ± 0.48% of ABTS radical cation (5.21 ± 0.07 TEAC). The antimicrobial activity was the strongest against Candida species with inhibition zones in the range of 38.00–44.00 mm and MIC 50 and MIC 90 values of 11.72 and 12.58 μL/mL, respectively. The inhibition activity of the vapor phase was the highest against G+ and G bacteria growing on a carrot with inhibition ranging from 65.14 to 93.67%. The anti-insect activity against O. lavaterae was determined as 100% at 100% concentration and 50% at 25% concentration. The degradation of biofilm was tested with MALDI-TOF MS, and changes in the protein profile were observed. Full article
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19 pages, 3332 KiB  
Article
Dental Hydrogels with Essential Oils with Potential Activity in Periodontitis
by Stefana Maria Cristina Muresan, Alexandra Dreanca, Calin Repciuc, Cosmina Dejescu, Oana Rotar, Raul Alexandru Pop, Stelian Pantea, Emoke Pall, Irina Ciotlaus, Codruta Sarosi, Aurel George Mohan, Marioara Moldovan and Liviu Oana
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(3), 1787; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13031787 - 30 Jan 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3366
Abstract
This study seeks to understand the effects of new hydrogels based on Oregano® essential oil, Frankincense® essential oil, and the Thieves® blend, which includes clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata, rosemary extract, and Frankincense® essential oil through in vitro [...] Read more.
This study seeks to understand the effects of new hydrogels based on Oregano® essential oil, Frankincense® essential oil, and the Thieves® blend, which includes clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata, rosemary extract, and Frankincense® essential oil through in vitro cytotoxicity and antimicrobial analysis. Mesenchymal stem cells (D1MSCs) generated from the dental papilla of human wisdom teeth germs were used to test the hydrogels’ cytotoxicity (D1MSCs). The chemical makeup of the tested essential oils (EO) was determined using GC-MS analysis, and their presence in the novel hydrogels was determined using UV-VIS analysis. The primary constituents of the essential oils identified as being present were eugenol, pinene, limonene, carvacrol, and cymene. The primary constituents from essential oils identified by the absorption spectra included eugenol, pinene, limonene, carvacrol, and cymene. The presence of essential oils in the hydrogel composition was also clearly discernible. All of the studied compounds had a reduced cytotoxic effect on cell cultures, proving the lack of in vitro toxicity of the gels. This study demonstrates that hydrogels enriched with pure natural extracts of essential oils have a tangible in vitro antimicrobial potential, especially for Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. Full article
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9 pages, 1611 KiB  
Communication
Screening of the Acaricidal Activity of Essential Oils against Panonychus citri (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae)
by Yijing Zhu, Taoqi Wu, Yongjian Xie, Yixuan Wu, Jianyu Deng, Lidong Cao, Zhijun Zhang and Qiong Rao
Agronomy 2023, 13(2), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13020397 - 29 Jan 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2723
Abstract
The citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (McGregor), is an important pest of citrus in China, where pesticides are commonly used in citrus orchards. In order to reduce the use of chemical pesticides against P. citri and the development of resistance, the screening of [...] Read more.
The citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (McGregor), is an important pest of citrus in China, where pesticides are commonly used in citrus orchards. In order to reduce the use of chemical pesticides against P. citri and the development of resistance, the screening of biological control agents has attracted the attention of students. In this study, seven plant essential oils with high toxicity were selected from 40 plant essential oils by the leaf-dip bioassay, including plant essential oils of lemongrass, patchouli, juniper berry, sage, clove, frankincense, and citrus. The LC50 after 72 h treatment were 3.198 μL/mL, 8.312 μL/mL, 3.244 μL/mL, 6.701 μL/mL, 8.350 μL/mL, 21.953 μL/mL, and 8.788 μL/mL, respectively. According to the LT50, the essential oils’ acute toxicity to P. citri from high to low were lemongrass, juniper berry, patchouli, citrus, sage, vetiver, and frankincense essential oils. In general, lemongrass and juniper berry essential oils have the best acaricidal effect and have high application value for the biological control of P. citri, which provides a basis for the development of botanical acaricides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Integrated Pest Management of Crops)
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