Search Results (207)

The herbal tea industry has experienced substantial growth, particularly regarding green tea (Camellia sinensis). In the manufacturing of filter tea, fine herbal dust is generated as a residual by-product during grinding and sieving and is typically discarded as waste. This study aims to explore the application of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) for secondary valorisation of green tea herbal dust by investigating the effects of various parameters on extraction efficiency. Antiradical activity of UAE extracts was determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, and the total phenolic content (TPC) was measured using Folin–Ciocalteu’s assay. Furthermore, selected phenolics were quantified by HPLC and qualitatively characterised by liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionisation and quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QToF-MS/MS). The results demonstrate that UAE parameters have a pronounced influence on the antioxidant activity, TPC, and individual polyphenolic profile of green tea herbal dust extracts. Ethanol–water mixtures at a ratio of around 40–60%, as well as moderate impulse regimes (around 60%) and extraction times (around 10 min), were the most suitable for extracting green tea polyphenols. Epigallocatechin gallate was the predominant phenolic component in most extracts, alongside epicatechin, epigallocatechin, catechin, and gallic acid. The findings highlight the UAE technique as a robust, green, and scalable method for valorising green tea by-products, thereby facilitating the development of high-value natural extracts for applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Full article

Obesity is a complex metabolic disorder associated with dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. Given its multifactorial nature, multi-component therapeutic strategies have attracted increasing interest, particularly herbal formulations containing diverse bioactive compounds. This study investigated the anti-obesity and hepatoprotective effects of a mixed herbal extract, JH01, composed of Curcuma longa, Achyranthes bidentata, and Polygonum multiflorum, using a screening-based analytical approach combined with experimental validation. Individual herbal extracts and their mixture were screened at 100 and 500 μg/mL in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Based on superior anti-adipogenic efficacy, JH01 was selected for further study. Its effects were evaluated in vitro by Oil Red O staining and quantitative real-time PCR analysis of adipogenic genes, and in vivo using a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mouse model, assessing body weight, serum lipid profiles, liver function markers, adipokine levels, and hepatic histology. JH01 showed markedly stronger inhibition of lipid accumulation than individual herbal components. JH01 significantly suppressed adipocyte differentiation and downregulated PPARγ, C/EBPα, and SREBP-1 expression in 3T3-L1 cells. Furthermore, JH01 modulated inflammatory cytokines and adipokine levels, as evidenced by reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β levels and increased adiponectin levels. In HFD-fed mice, JH01 reduced body weight gain, serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels, improved ALT and AST levels, decreased leptin concentrations, and attenuated hepatic steatosis. JH01 exerts potent anti-obesity and hepatoprotective effects through coordinated regulation of lipid metabolism and adipogenesis, supporting its potential as a multi-herbal therapeutic strategy for obesity-related metabolic disorders. Full article

Background/Objectives: Osteoporosis is a progressive systemic skeletal disease, with male osteoporosis emerging as a critical global concern due to high morbidity and mortality from fractures. This study investigated the anti-osteoporotic potential of CGAC—a herbal mixture of Cervus elaphus Linnaeus, Glycine max (L.) Merr., Angelica gigas Nakai, and Cnidium officinale Makino—and its underlying mechanisms in an orchiectomized (ORX) mouse model. Methods: C57BL/6J mice underwent ORX for 8 weeks, followed by CGAC administration (250 and 500 mg/kg) for an additional 8 weeks. Molecular mechanisms were further validated using MG63 osteoblastic and RAW 264.7 osteoclast assays. Results: ORX induced severe osteoporotic phenotypes, including significant reductions in bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular microarchitecture. Notably, at the time point examined, ORX was associated with a suppressed bone remodeling state, reflected by reductions in both TRAP-positive osteoclasts and ALP-positive osteoblasts, together with lower serum BALP, CTX-1, and Gla/Glu-OC ratio. Conversely, CGAC normalized this stagnant state and restored physiological remodeling. This was accompanied by reduced marrow fat accumulation through the AMPK signaling axis, which upregulated Runx2 and downregulated PPAR-γ. In vitro results confirmed that CGAC promoted osteoblast differentiation and mineralization while suppressing RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. These actions suggest that CGAC may be involved in regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Conclusions: Overall, CGAC is a promising therapeutic candidate for male osteoporosis, offering pharmacological benefits particularly relevant to aging populations. Full article

This study aimed to determine the optimal drying, grinding, and extraction conditions for red sweet pepper, garlic, parsley, and celery to obtain concentrated extracts rich in bioactive compounds. Drying was performed using infrared ovens (FD-48 and Basic Station 3) at 30, 45, and 55 °C. The optimal temperature was 45 °C, ensuring effective moisture removal while preserving functional components. Grinding efficiency was compared between an IKA A 11 Basic analytical mill and a Pulverisette 0 vibratory micromill; the analytical mill demonstrated superior performance and processing speed. Soxhlet extraction with 96% ethanol enabled the preservation of flavor, aroma, and functional properties of the extracts. The influence of the herbal extract mixture on the organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological characteristics of culinary products was evaluated. For sauces, the optimal extract concentration was 5%, providing balanced taste, pleasant aroma, stable consistency, and intense color. Physicochemical analysis showed increases in protein (3.24–3.68%), ash (2.52–2.68%), dry matter (25.27–26.94%), and pH (4.11–4.24). Microbiological indicators (TAMC—3.0 × 10² CFU/g; molds—21 CFU/g; yeasts—9 CFU/g) complied with regulatory standards. For meat products (meatballs and pies), the optimal extract composition (garlic 30%, red pepper 25%, parsley 25%, celery 20%) was applied at 0.3–0.7% of meat mass. Sensory evaluation identified 0.5% as optimal. The developed technology enables the production of functional food additives rich in protein, antioxidants, and flavonoids and is suitable for industrial implementation. Full article

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a disorder characterised by the concomitant presence of obesity, hyperglycaemia, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and insulin resistance. An increasing body of research indicates that chronic inflammation, accompanied by oxidative stress and angiogenesis, plays a key role in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Spice herbs may exert a beneficial effect when consumed daily in generally accepted amounts (1–3 g), thus providing relatively small quantities of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Their potential arises from regular long-term use rather than from the amount of bioactive substances delivered in a single dose. Methods: In this narrative review, we analysed data from the international literature on the effects of spice herbs (coriander, sage, mint, basil, rosemary, oregano and thyme) consumption on inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome in women. Results: The available literature provides limited data on the impact of spice herbs in the context of anti-inflammatory effects. A total of 124 publications were analysed, including 72 original research studies (48 involving humans) and 52 review articles and meta-analyses. Among the research articles included in the review, only 20 addressed both inflammation and at least one of the seven selected herbs: five were human studies, six involved laboratory animals, and eight were conducted in vitro. Analysis of the results from human studies demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects (decreases in TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, TLR4, hs-CRP) at daily doses not exceeding 3 g of individual herbs or 6.6 g of an herbal mixture. The use of spice herbs as a nutritional strategy to prevent chronic inflammation is supported by a growing body of scientific evidence. It should be emphasised that these studies are concerned with dietary support and prevention rather than with treatments that substitute for standard medical therapy. Incorporating spice herbs into the daily diet may represent a simple and safe approach to increasing the intake of anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds. Conclusions: Future research should focus on the precise determination of optimal doses and combinations of spice herbs to maximise benefits while avoiding potential adverse effects resulting from excessive intake of certain compounds or inappropriate selection of spice herbs. Long-term studies conducted in larger populations of women with metabolic syndrome are required, as physiological differences, particularly those related to oestrogens, may result in sex-specific effects. This review provides up-to-date information for further basic and clinical research on herbal medicine in metabolic syndrome. Full article

Rolled cheeses are a traditional specialty of the Vojvodina region in Serbia, produced through an artisanal process passed down across generations. This study evaluated the impact of the addition of selected herbs (a mixture of oregano and basil and chives added separately) on the microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory characteristics of rolled pasta filata cheese. Cheeses, both with and without herbs, were vacuum packed and stored at 4 °C for 60 days. The addition of oregano and basil significantly reduced aerobic mesophilic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and Escherichia coli, while Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes remained undetectable throughout storage. Physicochemical analyses classified the cheeses as full-fat, semi-hard, with at least 45% milk fat in dry matter, and moisture in fat-free matter between 54% and 69%. All variants exhibited uniform shape, intact appearance, and a compact layered structure, while herbal-enriched cheeses developed a distinctive aroma and flavor. Sensory evaluation showed that all cheese types remained acceptable for up to 40 days, with minor deviations at day 60. Overall, the herbal addition enhanced sensory appeal, created new flavor profiles, and improved microbiological stability, demonstrating its potential as a natural strategy to extend the shelf life of traditional Serbian rolled pasta filata cheese. Full article

Mental health disorders, particularly anxiety and insomnia, are increasingly prevalent worldwide, prompting interest in herbal-based complementary therapies. This study surveyed 168 Hungarian healthcare professionals to evaluate their knowledge and recommendations regarding herbal sedatives and analyzed seven commonly suggested OTC products available in Hungary, using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and UV–Vis spectrophotometry according to the European Pharmacopoeia. The survey revealed that 86.9% of respondents recommend herbal products for nervous system complaints, with Valeriana officinalis and Melissa officinalis being the preferred ingredients. Herbal teas and traditional herbal medicines were the most frequently suggested product categories. Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of marker compounds in all tested products; however, significant variability in active ingredient concentrations was observed. One homeopathic product contained an unidentified alkaloid-like compound, raising safety concerns. Essential oil yields from tea mixtures also varied markedly, and some products did not meet pharmacopoeial standards for hypericin content. These findings highlight the popularity of phytotherapy among healthcare professionals and the need for stricter quality control of OTC herbal sedatives. Future research should include multi-batch analyses and clinical trials to establish robust evidence for efficacy and safety. Full article

Mulberry (Morus nigra Aussie) leaves have traditionally been used in silkworm rearing and as herbal remedies, yet their extracts have recently gained prominence in functional foods due to their rich phenolic composition and associated health benefits, including antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer effects. Because extraction techniques strongly influence phenolic yields, this study optimized the extraction conditions for conventional, ultrasonic-assisted, and microwave-assisted methods using response surface methodology (RSM). Three independent factors—extraction temperature/power, extraction time, and solvent concentration (ethanol–water mixture, % v/v)—were evaluated for their effects on total phenolic content. The optimum conditions were identified as 60 °C, 60 min, and 56% ethanol for the conventional method; 60 °C, 45 min, and 71% ethanol for the ultrasonic-assisted method; and 471 W, 6 min, and 51% ethanol for the microwave-assisted method. At these optima, the total phenolic contents (TPCs) were 876 mg/kg (conventional), 820 mg/kg (ultrasonic-assisted), and 319 mg/kg (microwave-assisted) on a dry-leaf basis. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction produced phenolic yields comparable to those obtained by the conventional method. Therefore, its potential anticancer activity was assessed using Caco-2 cells. However, the extract inhibited cell viability of only 12% after 24 h, indicating no significant anticancer effect (cell viability remained >70%). These findings highlight optimized green extraction conditions for mulberry leaves while demonstrating that the ultrasonic-assisted extract lacks anticancer activity under the tested conditions. Full article

Shots are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and concentrated nutrient content. In this study, innovative shots were developed as herbal-enriched formulations designed to improve bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and health-promoting properties. To achieve this, pear–flowering quince juice was enriched with a mixture of herbal infusions and evaluated for its physicochemical characteristics, including bioactive compounds, as well as its functional and sensory properties. Additionally, the products were subjected to a three-stage in vitro digestion model (oral–gastric–small intestine) to assess bioaccessibility and bioavailability. The results revealed that the shot containing mint and nettle had the highest polyphenolic content (579 mg/100 mL), while the shot enriched with white mulberry and common yarrow had the highest mineral content (28 mg/100 mL). The developed formulations also exhibited strong inhibitory effects on pancreatic lipase and lipoxygenase. It was demonstrated that the addition of selected herbs, particularly those rich in rosmarinic acid, can enhance both bioaccessibility and bioavailability, and that menthol may further potentiate these effects. In conclusion, the study showed that incorporating different types of herbs into pear–flowering quince juice enables the development of novel products with tailored health-promoting and sensory properties, primarily through the synergistic action of the individual ingredients. Full article

The rapid emergence of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) after 2020 has created one of the most dynamic analytical challenges in modern forensic science. Hundreds of new synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, synthetic opioids, hallucinogens, and dissociatives, appearing as hybrid or structurally modified analogues of conventional drugs, have entered the illicit market, frequently found in complex polydrug mixtures. This review summarizes recent advances in gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for their detection, structural elucidation, and differentiation between 2020 and 2025 based on the ScienceDirect and Google Scholar databases. Due to its reproducible electron-ionization spectra, established reference libraries, and robustness toward complex matrices, GC-MS remains the primary tool for the separation and identification of emerging NPS. The current literature highlights significant improvements in extraction and pre-concentration procedures, derivatization strategies for thermally unstable analogues, and chromatographic optimization that enable discrimination between positional and stereoisomers. This review covers a wide range of matrices, including powders, herbal materials, vaping liquids, and infused papers, as well as biological specimens such as blood, urine, and hair. Chemometric interpretation of GC-MS data now supports automated classification and prediction of fragmentation pathways, while coupling with complementary spectroscopic techniques strengthens compound confirmation. The review emphasizes how continuous innovation in GC-MS methodology has paralleled the rapid evolution of the NPS landscape, ensuring its enduring role as a reliable, adaptable, and cost-effective platform for monitoring emerging psychoactive substances in seized materials. Full article

Background/Objectives: According to the World Drug Report 2025, cannabis is the most abused drug in the world, being sold in illicit markets in various physical forms ranging from herbal cannabis to cannabis resin and liquid cannabis. Currently, the methods used for cannabis identification are largely based on the morphological features and chemical content of the product. In this respect, identification could be severely impacted if the product is highly fragmented or pulverised. As such, DNA-based molecular techniques offer a viable alternative detection approach. In this study, we have developed a robust DNA testing method for cannabis identification, with high sensitivity and specificity. Methods/Results: Two plant DNA barcode regions, rbcL and matK, were successfully amplified in a cohort of 54 cannabis plant samples. DNA sequences obtained from these samples were blast-searched against GenBank and resulted in returned matched identity of at least 99% compared to their corresponding Cannabis sativa reference sequences. In addition, the amplification of two cannabis-unique markers, the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid synthase (THCAS) and cannabidiolic acid synthase (CBDAS) genes, produced amplicons with expected sizes only in cannabis samples; these amplicons were not detected in those plants closely related to cannabis. Sequence comparison of the majority of samples yielded at least 97% matched identity against C. sativa reference sequences in GenBank. The THCAS and CBDAS markers detected only the cannabis DNA in varying levels of cannabis–hops and cannabis–tobacco DNA mixtures. Lastly, the use of the four markers could effectively differentiate between cannabis and non-cannabis in 27 blinded samples, including 18 actual casework samples. Conclusions: In conclusion, these four genetic markers can be used to discriminate cannabis from other plant species at the genus level, especially in challenging forensic samples lacking morphological features which therefore cannot be determined by traditional detection methods. As such, this method can complement existing techniques to identify a myriad of cannabis samples. Full article

Bacopa monnieri, commonly known as Brahmi, is a perennial herbaceous plant used in Ayurvedic medicine owing to its nootropic properties. The increased demand for bacopa-derived herbal/food products has motivated adulteration practices through plant substitution. This work is aimed at developing a new method for B. monnieri detection and quantification in herbal products. The chloroplast gene encoding the Ycf1 photosystem I assembly protein (Ycf1) and the nuclear gene coding for the flavonoid glucosyltransferase (Flag) were selected as candidate markers to develop a real-time PCR assay with EvaGreen dye for B. monnieri detection. Both markers were specific to the target species, with Ycf1 providing the best real-time PCR kinetics and highest sensitivity. Therefore, a new method targeting the Ycf1 barcode was developed, exhibiting high specificity and a sensitivity of 1 pg of bacopa DNA. Additionally, a calibration model was proposed using reference mixtures of B. monnieri in Ginkgo biloba with a linear dynamic range of 25–0.1% (w/w). The curve parameters of slope, PCR efficiency and correlation coefficient met the acceptance criteria. The method was successfully validated with blind mixtures and further applied to commercial herbal products, revealing an important level of adulteration in bacopa/Brahmi-labelled products (60%) due to absence of or reduction in bacopa content. In this work, the first quantitative real-time PCR method for the botanical authentication of B. monnieri in herbal products is proposed as a powerful tool, which can be used by quality control laboratories and regulatory authorities to ensure labelling compliance. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: The recreational use of semisynthetic cannabinoids (SSCs) is increasing, and SSCs account for more than 40% of all new substances reported at the European level. Although designed to mimic the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, evidence suggests that certain SSCs may elicit stronger, prolonged and unintended pharmacological effects. SSCs are easily accessible, particularly via online retailers, but in some countries, SSCs are also sold in convenience stores or specialty stores selling legal low-THC or cannabidiol (CBD) products. Often, SSCs are sold as “legal highs” and are found in various forms, including herbal mixtures (spice), vape products, and edibles such as cookies and candies, specifically targeting young users, including children. The products are frequently mislabeled and sold as souvenirs or aromatic potpourri to bypass regulations. Case Presentation: We present a case of a male in his early forties who was admitted to the Emergency Department due to noticeable deficits in alertness and responsiveness after recreational ingestion of two cannabis cookies labeled to contain 40 mg “CC9” and a bite of a gummy with unknown contents. The patient experienced vomiting and visual problems, and suffered from nine days of cognitive and physical impairment. HHC-C9, a novel SSC, was detected in blood through forensic toxicological analysis. Conclusions: Recreational use of HHC-C9 can cause vomiting, visual disturbances, and drowsiness, potentially requiring hospital treatment. Potency, clinical effects, and toxicity of SSCs can vary significantly, and in combination with easy accessibility, SSCs pose a potential risk of intoxication to unaware consumers. Full article

Mass spectrometric (MS) fingerprinting coupled with chemometrics for the detection of plants in plant mixtures is sparsely researched. This paper aims to check its value for herbal adulteration concerning plants with slimming as an indication. Moreover, it is among the first to exploit the full three-dimensional dataset (i.e., time × intensity × mass) obtained with liquid chromatography hyphenated with MS for herbal fingerprinting purposes. The MS parameters were optimized to achieve highly specific fingerprints. Trituration’s (total 55), blanks (total 11) and reference plants were injected in the MS system to generate the dataset. The dataset was complex and humongous, necessitating the application of compression techniques. After compression, Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) was performed to generate models validated for accuracy using cross-validation and an external test set. Confusion matrices were constructed to provide insight into the modeling predictions. A complimentary evaluation between data obtained using a previously developed Diode Array Detection (DAD) method and the MS data was performed by data fusion techniques and newly generated models. The fused dataset models were comparable to MS models. For ease of application, MS modeling was deemed to be superior. The future market studies would adopt MS modeling as the preferred choice. A proof of concept was carried out on 10 real-life samples obtained from illegal sources. The results indicated the need for stronger monitoring of (illegal) plant food supplements entering the market, especially via the internet. Full article

Background: Herbal medicine represents a rich yet complex source of bioactive compounds, offering both therapeutic potential and toxicological risks. Methods: In this study, we systematically evaluated the biological effects of three traditional herbal extracts—Mentha longifolia, Scrophularia orientalis, and Echium biebersteinii—using Caenorhabditis elegans as an in vivo model. Results: All three extracts significantly reduced worm survival, induced larval arrest, and triggered a high incidence of males (HIM) phenotypes, indicative of mitotic failure and meiotic chromosome missegregation. Detailed analysis of germline architecture revealed extract-specific abnormalities, including nuclear disorganization, ectopic crescent-shaped nuclei, altered meiotic progression, and reduced bivalent formation. These defects were accompanied by activation of the DNA damage response, as evidenced by upregulation of checkpoint genes (atm-1, atl-1), increased pCHK-1 foci, and elevated germline apoptosis. LC-MS profiling identified 21 major compounds across the extracts, with four compounds—thymol, carvyl acetate, luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, and menthyl acetate—shared by all three herbs. Among them, thymol and carvyl acetate significantly upregulated DNA damage checkpoint genes and promoted apoptosis, whereas thymol and luteolin-7-O-rutinoside contributed to antioxidant activity. Notably, S. orientalis and E. biebersteinii shared 11 of 14 major constituents (79%), correlating with their similar phenotypic outcomes, while M. longifolia exhibited a more distinct chemical profile, possessing seven unique compounds. Conclusions: These findings highlight the complex biological effects of traditional herbal extracts, demonstrating that both beneficial and harmful outcomes can arise from specific phytochemicals within a mixture. By deconstructing these extracts into their active components, such as thymol, carvyl acetate, and luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, we gain critical insight into the mechanisms driving reproductive toxicity and antioxidant activity. This approach underscores the importance of component-level analysis for accurately assessing the therapeutic value and safety profile of medicinal plants, particularly those used in foods and dietary supplements. Full article