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27 pages, 8969 KB  
Article
Pan-Cancer Bioinformatics-Guided Evaluation of San-Huang-Xie-Xin-Tang Identifies Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma as a Potentially Responsive Cancer Type
by Syu-You Zuo, Yu-Pao Chou, Tai-Hsuan Hsu, Jan-Gowth Chang and Wen-Ling Chan
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(6), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19060936 - 14 Jun 2026
Viewed by 265
Abstract
Background/Objectives: San-Huang-Xie-Xin-Tang (SHXXT) is a classical traditional Chinese herbal formula composed of Coptis chinensis, Scutellaria baicalensis, and Rheum palmatum, with documented anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Despite growing interest in its pharmacological potential, systematic evaluation of its gene regulatory effects across [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: San-Huang-Xie-Xin-Tang (SHXXT) is a classical traditional Chinese herbal formula composed of Coptis chinensis, Scutellaria baicalensis, and Rheum palmatum, with documented anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Despite growing interest in its pharmacological potential, systematic evaluation of its gene regulatory effects across multiple cancer types remains limited. This study aimed to assess the prognostic relevance of SHXXT-regulated genes across pan-cancer contexts using publicly available transcriptomic and clinical datasets. Methods: Fifteen active compounds of SHXXT were identified from traditional Chinese medicine databases (Encyclopaedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ETCM) 2.0, Chinese Compound Medicine Database (ccTCM), and Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine Database (ITCM)). Compound-induced gene expression profiles were obtained from MCF7-based transcriptomic perturbation data in the ITCM database and integrated with The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) across 24 cancer types. Survival-associated genes were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression and Kaplan–Meier analysis. A weighted prognostic scoring framework, supported by normalization and sensitivity analyses, was developed to prioritize cancer types according to the concordance between SHXXT-induced gene regulation and favorable prognostic patterns. Functional enrichment analysis was performed using Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), and cancer-related genes were annotated using the OncoKB database. Complementary in vitro studies, including Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) and MT-1 staining assays, were conducted in Hep3B cells using a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-certified commercial SHXXT preparation. Results: SHXXT-regulated genes were significantly enriched in cancer-related pathways, particularly the PI3K–Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. Pan-cancer analysis revealed substantial heterogeneity in prognostic alignment across cancer types. Among the 24 cancer cohorts analyzed, kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) achieved the highest prognostic alignment score within the proposed framework. In KIRC, several genes, including PIK3CA, PIK3CB, KRAS, and RAF1, remained significantly associated with favorable prognostic alignment after multivariable adjustment. Pathway enrichment analysis further identified PI3K–Akt and MAPK signaling as the most significantly represented pathways among favorably aligned genes. In contrast, hepatocellular carcinoma exhibited a relatively low prognostic alignment score, consistent with in vitro observations indicating predominantly non-selective cytotoxic stress rather than cancer-specific therapeutic activity. Conclusions: SHXXT-regulated genes exhibited marked heterogeneity across cancer types, with KIRC was consistently prioritized as the top-ranked cancer type across multiple analytical scenarios, suggesting a strong concordance between SHXXT-associated gene regulation and favorable prognostic signatures. These findings represent computational predictions derived from transcriptomic and survival associations rather than direct evidence of therapeutic efficacy. The study provides a reproducible pan-cancer strategy for prioritizing candidate cancer types for future mechanistic and experimental validation of traditional Chinese medicine formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Therapeutics: Drug Repurposing and Computational Strategies)
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21 pages, 1787 KB  
Article
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents as Alternative Media for the Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Crataegus monogyna
by Hristo Petkov, Vanya Gerasimova, Boryana Trusheva, Zhanina Petkova, Vassya Bankova and Milena Popova
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(12), 5924; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16125924 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 208
Abstract
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) coupled with ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) were evaluated as an extraction technique for phenolic compounds from Crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers. Nine well-known hydrophilic NADESs were investigated as green extraction media, and their extractability was assessed in terms of [...] Read more.
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) coupled with ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) were evaluated as an extraction technique for phenolic compounds from Crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers. Nine well-known hydrophilic NADESs were investigated as green extraction media, and their extractability was assessed in terms of major individual compounds, total flavan-3-ols and proanthocyanidins, as well as antioxidant activity. Water and ethanol–water solutions (70% and 50%, v/v) were used as reference solvents. An HPLC method was developed and partially validated for the quantitative determination of key individual components, including chlorogenic acid, hyperoside, vitexin, vitexin-2″-O-rhamnoside, and vitexin 2″-O-(4‴-O-acetyl)-rhamnoside. The subsequent chemometric analysis of the datasets revealed that the NADES systems choline chloride:urea:water (1:1:6) and choline chloride:glucose:water (5:2:25) exhibited pronounced extraction performance for all investigated metabolites, while preserving high antioxidant activity of the extracts. Pearson correlation coefficients and corresponding p-values demonstrated strong and statistically significant relationships among the majority of the investigated parameters: solvents’ physicochemical properties, the yield of phenolic compounds, and the antioxidant activity of the hawthorn extracts. The results highlight the potential of choline chloride based NADESs containing urea or glucose as alternative solvents for the green production of hawthorn-derived ingredients for functional foods, nutraceuticals, and herbal preparations, thereby contributing to the development of scalable, application-oriented extraction technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Source, Function, and Application)
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28 pages, 403 KB  
Review
Herbal Polyphenolic Mixtures as Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Agents in Respiratory Diseases: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives
by Shynggys Sergazy, Zarina Shulgau, Madiyar Nurgaziyev, Ayaulym Nurgaziyeva, Madina Baurzhan, Sayagul Kairgeldina and Alexander Gulyayev
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5298; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125298 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 109
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a central pathogenic mechanism in acute and chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acute lung injury (ALI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and pulmonary fibrosis. Excessive production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), combined with [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress is a central pathogenic mechanism in acute and chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acute lung injury (ALI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and pulmonary fibrosis. Excessive production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), combined with impaired antioxidant defenses, contributes to epithelial and endothelial injury, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, airway remodeling, and progressive loss of lung function. Plant-derived polyphenols and polyphenol-rich herbal mixtures have emerged as promising candidates for respiratory protection due to their multimodal activity. They exert effects through direct antioxidant action, enhancement of glutathione-dependent and enzymatic defenses, activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and suppression of NF-κB, MAPK, inflammasome, and profibrotic signaling. Experimental studies have demonstrated protective effects of compounds such as quercetin, resveratrol, rosmarinic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, and phenolic-rich extracts. However, clinical translation remains limited by poor bioavailability, variability of botanical preparations, lack of standardization, and insufficient high-quality human studies. This review summarizes key mechanisms of oxidative lung injury and critically evaluates the therapeutic potential and translational challenges of herbal polyphenolic mixtures in respiratory diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pharmacology)
35 pages, 1697 KB  
Review
Astragalus and Cordyceps Derivatives in the Treatment of Aging-Related Chronic Diseases and Neurodegenerative Disorders
by Kiran Reddy Kanubaddi, Chih-Liang Yaung, Horng-Jyh Harn, Tzyy-Wen Chiou, Shao-Xi Hsu, Ivan Wijaya, Shinn-Zong Lin and Wei Wuli
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125273 - 10 Jun 2026
Viewed by 421
Abstract
Aging is associated with a rising burden of chronic metabolic, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurodegenerative diseases that share interconnected pathological mechanisms, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic imbalance, and immune dysregulation. Because these disorders arise from complex and overlapping biological disturbances, conventional [...] Read more.
Aging is associated with a rising burden of chronic metabolic, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurodegenerative diseases that share interconnected pathological mechanisms, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic imbalance, and immune dysregulation. Because these disorders arise from complex and overlapping biological disturbances, conventional single-target therapies often provide only limited benefit. In this context, traditional Chinese herbal medicines, characterized by multi-component and multi-target actions, are being re-evaluated using modern pharmacological and systems biology approaches. Among these, Astragalus membranaceus and Cordyceps species have attracted attention as representative tonic medicines with long-standing traditional use and growing biomedical relevance. Their principal bioactive constituents, including polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, sterols, and nucleoside derivatives such as cordycepin, exert pleiotropic effects on inflammatory signaling, redox homeostasis, mitochondrial function, metabolic regulation, and immune responses. This review summarizes current evidence on bioactive derivatives from Astragalus and Cordyceps in aging-related chronic and neurodegenerative disorders, including diabetes, cardiovascular dysfunction, osteoarthritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. It focuses on mechanistic findings from cellular and animal studies and critically discusses key translational challenges, such as compositional variability, poor bioavailability, lack of standardized preparation, limited clinical validation, and safety concerns related to toxicity and herb–drug interactions. Full article
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17 pages, 4946 KB  
Article
Immunoprotective Effects of Mori Cortex Radicis Water Extract on Major Aquatic Pathogen (Aeromonas veronii) in Crucian Carp
by Xing Zhang, Ling Zhu, Yuhang Zhan, Pan Cui, Jing Chen, Shujun Sun, Zijian Ma, Juan Lu, Xiang Liu and Xianjie Liu
Life 2026, 16(6), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16060971 - 9 Jun 2026
Viewed by 201
Abstract
Mori Cortex Radicis (MCR), which is abundant in resources and low in cost, is a Chinese herbal medicine with antitussive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hypoglycemic effects; however, its application in the prevention and control of aquatic pathogens remains understudied. In this study, a MCR [...] Read more.
Mori Cortex Radicis (MCR), which is abundant in resources and low in cost, is a Chinese herbal medicine with antitussive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hypoglycemic effects; however, its application in the prevention and control of aquatic pathogens remains understudied. In this study, a MCR water extract (MCR-WE) was prepared, and its contents of polysaccharides, polyphenols, and proteins were found to be 0.63%, 1.17%, and 2.79%, respectively. LC-MS metabolomics revealed that L(+)-Arginine, 9,12,13-Todea, Citric acid, 1-Deoxynojirimycin, and 4-Guanidinobutanoic acid were the most abundant compounds. Subsequently, by feeding the MCR-WE to crucian carp (Carassius auratus) and challenging them with Aeromonas veronii, it was found that the MCR-WE enhanced the activities of immune factors (AKP, ACP, LZM) and the phagocytic activity of leukocytes (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the MCR-WE improved the survival rate of crucian carp (p < 0.05), reduced the bacterial load in the kidneys (p < 0.05), decreased the mRNA expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α), and lowered the expression levels of antioxidant-related factors (CAT, GSH-Px, SOD, MDA) and the mRNAs of oxidative stress pathway factors (Nrf2, HO-1, Keap1) (p < 0.05). Histopathological sections and immunofluorescence assays showed that the MCR-WE maintained the structural integrity of internal organs and reduced renal cell apoptosis and DNA damage. Therefore, MCR-WE is rich in immunologically active substances, can activate the immune response of crucian carp, reduce fish mortality, exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, and maintain the structural and functional integrity of internal organs. Thus, the MCR-WE holds promise as a therapeutic agent against A. veronii infection in fish. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Pathogenesis and Resistance Mechanisms of Aquatic Pathogens)
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14 pages, 664 KB  
Article
Quality Comparative Evaluation of Eungyosan Formulations by a Validated HPLC–PDA Method for 11 Marker Components
by Chang-Seob Seo
Molecules 2026, 31(12), 1991; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31121991 - 7 Jun 2026
Viewed by 170
Abstract
Eungyosan (EGS) is a traditional multi-herbal formulation widely used for the treatment of respiratory diseases; however, its quality control remains challenging due to its complex chemical composition. This study aimed to develop and validate a high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection [...] Read more.
Eungyosan (EGS) is a traditional multi-herbal formulation widely used for the treatment of respiratory diseases; however, its quality control remains challenging due to its complex chemical composition. This study aimed to develop and validate a high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection (HPLC–PDA) method for simultaneous determination of 11 representative marker compounds in EGS and to apply the method to the comparative quality evaluation of laboratory-prepared and commercial EGS formulations. Chromatographic conditions were optimized, and the marker compounds were selected based on their herbal origin, phytochemical relevance, and chromatographic detectability. The method was validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity (limits of detection and quantification), precision, accuracy, and stability. All analytes exhibited excellent linearity (coefficient of determination > 0.9999), along with satisfactory precision (relative standard deviation < 2%) and recovery (95.64–105.69%). The validated method was successfully applied to a laboratory-prepared extract and three commercial granule formulations. Considerable differences in the levels of marker compounds were observed among the samples; several marker compounds were either not detected or could not be quantified because of UV spectral mismatch in certain commercial products. These findings demonstrate variability in the chemical composition of the tested EGS formulations and highlight the usefulness of the validated HPLC–PDA method for comparative quality evaluation of multi-herbal formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Compounds in Modern Therapies, 3rd Edition)
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17 pages, 2019 KB  
Review
Elymus repens (L.) Gould Phytochemistry Pharmacological Activities and Therapeutic Potential with Future Perspectives
by Zhakipbekov Kairat Saparkhanovich, Serikbayeva Elmira Asilbekovna, Tleubayeva Meruyert Ilyasovna, Anarbayeva Rabiga Mutalievna, Shimirova Zhanar Kasymbekovna, Umurzakhova Galiya Zhanburbaevna, Seitova Zhanerke Dauletkyzy, Mukanova Arailym Beybitkyzy, Konash Nyshanbay Yermekuly, Ashirov Murat Zulpidinovich and Zulpidin Gulsezim Mukhankyzy
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(11), 4928; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114928 - 29 May 2026
Viewed by 249
Abstract
Elymus repens (L.) Gould, commonly known as couch grass, is mainly distributed as a medicinal herb of great ethnopharmacological importance. This review presented for the first time the significance of nomenclature clarity, current insights on distribution, traditional use, phytochemistry and their biological activities. [...] Read more.
Elymus repens (L.) Gould, commonly known as couch grass, is mainly distributed as a medicinal herb of great ethnopharmacological importance. This review presented for the first time the significance of nomenclature clarity, current insights on distribution, traditional use, phytochemistry and their biological activities. The bioactive compound composition of E. repens displayed a variety of compounds including carbohydrates, phenolic acids, flavonoids, benzoxazinoids and volatile compounds, all of which contributed to its medicinal properties. The biological potential of this plant underlines diuretic, antiurolithiatic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and also antidiabetic qualities with molecular insights showing synergistic interactions across many compound classes. The current reported data notably confirmed its potential in lowering renal calculi and alleviating associated symptoms; however, the findings remain limited. E. repens’ medicinal potential is further confirmed by its historical application as an herbal tea and aqueous preparation, which clearly indicates its favorable safety profile. Along with this, from many encouraging results, there exist considerable deficiencies in standardization, clinical validation and also mechanistic clarification. This review highlights the necessity for careful studies to determine the therapeutic efficiency, enhance formulation and promote E. repens as a scientifically therapeutic agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Medicinal Plants in Health and Diseases)
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29 pages, 5208 KB  
Article
Bioactive Constituents and Therapeutic Mechanisms of Shenfu Decoction in a Rat Model of Seawater-Immersion-Induced Accidental Hypothermia
by Yanrong Gong, Zhibo Wang, Yiwen Ben, Hongzhi Chen, Yajing Wang, Chaoyue Sun, Huifang Deng, Huiqing Zhang, Zifei Yin and Wei Gu
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(5), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19050793 - 19 May 2026
Viewed by 424
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Shenfu Decoction (SFD) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula composed of Panax ginseng and Aconitum carmichaelii that can revive and counteract shock. However, how SFD can mitigate hypothermia caused by seawater immersion is poorly understood. Methods: Three commonly used ratios [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Shenfu Decoction (SFD) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula composed of Panax ginseng and Aconitum carmichaelii that can revive and counteract shock. However, how SFD can mitigate hypothermia caused by seawater immersion is poorly understood. Methods: Three commonly used ratios of SFD (Panax ginseng:Aconitum carmichaelii = 1:1, 1:2, 2:1) were prepared, and their chemical properties were analyzed with UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. A rat model of hypothermia caused by seawater immersion at 15 °C was utilized. Survival analysis was used to evaluate the prophylactic effect of single intragastric administration of SFD with different ratios and doses on the survival time of rats, and to identify the optimal intervention conditions. Network pharmacology analysis based on the absorbed constituents of SFD was performed to preliminarily predict the underlying mechanisms, which were subsequently validated using RT-PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and H&E staining. Results: SFD contained 54 compounds, including ginsenosides and aconitine alkaloids, whose relative concentrations varied across different ratios of SFD. Animal studies showed that pretreatment of SFD (1:1) administered at a dose of 1.35 g/kg was very effective in increasing rats’ survival time in hypothermia and slowed down core body temperature decline. Based on the 28 plasma-absorbed compounds of SFD, network pharmacology identified 503 targets, enriched in cAMP and MAPK signaling pathways. SFD (1:1, 1.35 g/kg) resulted in larger lipid droplets in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and enhanced the respiratory metabolic rate in seawater-immersion-induced hypothermia rats. Furthermore, its thermogenic effect is likely associated with the upregulation of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) via activating p38 MAPK/PGC1α/PPARγ and NE-(β3-AR)-cAMP-PKA pathways. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that a single prophylactic administration of the traditional Chinese medicine formula SFD prior to cold seawater exposure significantly prolongs the survival time of rats. This effect is associated with the upregulation of UCP1 and the subsequent enhancement of thermogenesis in BAT. These findings highlight the great potential of SFD as a promising intervention for the management of hypothermia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
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23 pages, 17215 KB  
Article
Comparative In Vitro Bioactivity of Traditional Aqueous and Alcoholic Preparations of Arnica (Chiliadenus glutinosus): Effects on Marine Fish Pathogens, PLHC1 Cells and Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) Leucocytes
by Jose Carlos Campos-Sánchez, Francisco A. Guardiola and María Ángeles Esteban
Fishes 2026, 11(5), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11050281 - 9 May 2026
Viewed by 314
Abstract
Arnica (Chiliadenus glutinosus (L.) Fourr.) is an endemic plant widely used in Spanish traditional medicine as infusions and alcoholic macerates for different ailments. Despite this use, information about the biological activity of these preparations in fish-related models is scarce. In the present [...] Read more.
Arnica (Chiliadenus glutinosus (L.) Fourr.) is an endemic plant widely used in Spanish traditional medicine as infusions and alcoholic macerates for different ailments. Despite this use, information about the biological activity of these preparations in fish-related models is scarce. In the present study, the arnica extract bioactivity assay evaluated aqueous, ethanolic, and methanolic extracts at different doses (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg mL−1) to compare their antioxidant activity, effects on four marine fish pathogens (Vibrio harveyi, Vibrio anguillarum, Photobacterium damselae and Tenacibaculum maritimum), cytotoxicity on the PLHC1 tumour cell line, and their impact on immunological parameters in head-kidney leucocytes (HKLs) of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). All extracts showed dose-dependent antioxidant activity, while bactericidal effects depended on the solvent and were mainly observed at the highest concentrations. Ethanolic and methanolic extracts displayed clear cytotoxicity, whereas the aqueous extract showed lower toxicity and was selected for further evaluation. In the carrageenan stimulation assay, selected concentrations (0, 0.25, and 0.5 mg mL−1) of the aqueous extract were tested in leucocytes stimulated with λ-carrageenan (0 and 1000 µg mL−1), and respiratory burst and phagocytic activity, cell morphology, and gene expression were analysed. The aqueous extract reduced respiratory burst and phagocytic capacity in activated leucocytes and was associated with morphological signs of cell activation. It also downregulated crel and casp9 expression. These results provide a comparative view of the in vitro bioactivity of different traditional preparations of arnica and show that their biological effects strongly depend on the solvent used and the concentration tested, providing initial experimental information on their cellular effects in fish. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Biochemistry)
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18 pages, 8799 KB  
Article
Development of Kamala-Based, a Thai Traditional Remedy, Nanoemulsion Gel and In Vitro Release Behavior of Phenylbutenoid Markers
by Siraporn Mahakoat, Sujaree Panomket, Catheleeya Mekjaruskul and Bunleu Sungthong
Gels 2026, 12(5), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12050415 - 9 May 2026
Viewed by 417
Abstract
Kamala is a traditional Thai herbal knee poultice containing phenylbutenoid compounds with potent anti-inflammatory activity; however, its conventional form is inconvenient to use and exhibits variability in active compound content. This study aimed to develop a Kamala-based nanoemulsion gel to enhance dermal delivery [...] Read more.
Kamala is a traditional Thai herbal knee poultice containing phenylbutenoid compounds with potent anti-inflammatory activity; however, its conventional form is inconvenient to use and exhibits variability in active compound content. This study aimed to develop a Kamala-based nanoemulsion gel to enhance dermal delivery and improve formulation consistency. Oils, surfactants, and co-surfactants were screened for their solubilization efficiency of (E)-1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)butadiene (DMPBD) and (E)-4-(3′,4′-dimethoxyphenyl)but-3-en-1-ol (Compound D) using GC–MS. Pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were constructed to identify isotropic regions, and nanoemulsions with different Smix ratios were prepared by ultrasonication. Droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), and short-term stability were evaluated. The optimized nanoemulsion was incorporated into a gel, and in vitro release was assessed using Franz diffusion cells. Coconut oil exhibited the highest solubilization capacity for both markers. A Tween 80:n-butanol system (2:1) generated the largest isotropic region (22.88%). The optimized formulation (Kamala extract:coconut oil:Smix:water = 1:2:50:47) showed droplet sizes of 77.92 ± 8.34 nm at 0 h and 130.89 ± 29.16 nm at 72 h, with PDI < 0.20. The nanoemulsion gel prepared with Aristoflex Velvet® (1% w/w) was transparent and physically stable. Franz diffusion studies demonstrated enhanced cumulative release and flux of Compound D in PBS containing 1% Tween 80. These findings indicate that the Kamala nanoemulsion gel is a promising topical delivery system for phenylbutenoid compounds in knee osteoarthritis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Gels Loaded with Natural Products (2nd Edition))
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19 pages, 2768 KB  
Article
Medicinal Plants for Dermatological and Cosmetic Applications: Ethnobotanical Study from Northern Lithuania
by Daniele Urbonaite, Jurga Bernatoniene, Andrius Pranskunas and Zivile Pranskuniene
Plants 2026, 15(9), 1389; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15091389 - 30 Apr 2026
Viewed by 504
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological studies are growing in number in Europe; however, research on medicinal plants in Lithuania focusing on dermatological and cosmetic applications is still scarce. This study aimed to evaluate ethnobotanical heritage related to the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic use in Northern [...] Read more.
Ethnopharmacological studies are growing in number in Europe; however, research on medicinal plants in Lithuania focusing on dermatological and cosmetic applications is still scarce. This study aimed to evaluate ethnobotanical heritage related to the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic use in Northern Lithuania and to assess the compliance of traditional medicinal plant use indications with European Union herbal monographs. This study involved 36 participants aged 40 to 89. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. This study documented 76 plant species belonging to 41 botanical families for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes. This knowledge was primarily transmitted through family traditions, with 59.2% of respondents reporting that they acquired this knowledge from parents or grandparents. The medicinal plants most frequently mentioned for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes were Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. and Plantago major L. The most popular preparation method was topical application (32.4%) for treating skin diseases and decoction (38.5%) for cosmetic purposes. Plant-based raw materials were most often used to treat skin wounds (24.5%), as well as skin inflammation (16.3%) and burns (12.1%). For cosmetic purposes, the most frequently mentioned indication was dry skin (23.6% of plants). Of the 76 recorded plant species, 41 (53.9%) were not included in herbal monographs, and only 15 species (42.86%) were used in accordance with approved medical indications for skin diseases. Many plant species are used without European Medicines Agency-approved medical indications, relying solely on traditional and folk knowledge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ethnobotany)
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17 pages, 9115 KB  
Article
Moringa oleifera Leaf Extracts as a Novel Bioactive Material for Vital Pulp Therapy: A Comparative In Vitro and In Vivo Study
by Mustafa F. Abd Al-Hussein, Nada E. Shafiq, Anas F. Mahdee, Mohammed Taha Ahmed Baban and Sarhang S. Gul
Oral 2026, 6(3), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/oral6030050 - 29 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1415
Abstract
Objectives: The primary objective of vital pulp therapy (VPT) is to induce the formation of tertiary dentin bridge through the application of bioactive materials to maintain pulp vitality. This study aimed to evaluate the odontogenic potential of Moringa oleifera ethanolic and aqueous extracts [...] Read more.
Objectives: The primary objective of vital pulp therapy (VPT) is to induce the formation of tertiary dentin bridge through the application of bioactive materials to maintain pulp vitality. This study aimed to evaluate the odontogenic potential of Moringa oleifera ethanolic and aqueous extracts as sustainable herbal pulp capping materials in comparison to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and a bioceramic putty. The evaluation was conducted in vitro on human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and in vivo using a rat model of direct pulp capping. Methods: Moringa leaf extracts were prepared and the cytotoxicity assessed using MTT assay to measure the IC50, and their odontogenic potential was further evaluated in vitro by measuring alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and performing Alizarin Red staining for mineralization in comparison to MTA. For the in vivo study, the exposed rat pulps were capped with the extracts, MTA, the bioceramic putty, or a plain collagen sponge (control). Histological analysis was performed to evaluate inflammation and tertiary dentin bridge formation. Results: The ethanolic, aqueous extracts and MTA showed low cytotoxicity, though the ethanolic extract had significantly enhanced ALP expression (p < 0.05) and mineralized nodule formation (p < 0.05) compared to the other groups. In the in vivo study, the plain collagen sponges failed, resulting in necrosis. Conversely, MTA and the ethanolic extract exhibited the best outcomes, inducing the lowest inflammatory response (mainly score 1 and 2) and the successful formation of an irregular dentin bridge by odontoblast-like cells, whereas the aqueous extract and bioceramic putty showed intermediate results, with higher inflammation levels. Conclusions: Ethanolic Moringa oleifera extract is a highly biocompatible material with potent odontogenic induction capabilities, primarily driven by its flavonoid content. It is a promising, novel, and cost-effective material for use in the VPT as an effective alternative to MTA. Full article
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22 pages, 3260 KB  
Article
Comparative Clinical Evaluation of Chamomile, Sage, and Ginger Mouthwashes in Reducing Plaque and Gingival Inflammation
by Ioana Elena Lile, Anda Olivia Jesamine Samoilă, Carolina Cojocariu, Gianina Tapalagă, Neli-Kinga Oláh, Otilia Lavinia Stana, Adelina Berari and Diana Marian
Antibiotics 2026, 15(5), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15050433 - 27 Apr 2026
Viewed by 719
Abstract
Background: Despite mechanical hygiene, plaque-related illnesses like gingivitis and periodontitis affect over 3.5 billion people globally. Natural mouthwashes are becoming increasingly popular as consumers shift toward plant-based alternatives to chlorhexidine, which may have drawbacks that limit long-term acceptability. This study aimed to evaluate [...] Read more.
Background: Despite mechanical hygiene, plaque-related illnesses like gingivitis and periodontitis affect over 3.5 billion people globally. Natural mouthwashes are becoming increasingly popular as consumers shift toward plant-based alternatives to chlorhexidine, which may have drawbacks that limit long-term acceptability. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term clinical potential of three herbal mouthwashes—Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile), Salvia officinalis (sage), and Zingiber officinale (ginger)—in reducing dental plaque and clinical signs of gingival inflammation in young adults. (2) Materials and Methods. A randomised controlled clinical trial was conducted on 175 systemically healthy participants, allocated equally into five groups (three herbal groups, placebo, and chlorhexidine). Each herbal group used a 2% aqueous infusion three times daily for twelve weeks. The 2% aqueous infusion concentration was selected based on commonly reported concentrations in previous phytotherapeutic and clinical studies evaluating herbal mouthwashes, balancing potential efficacy with safety and tolerability. The plant materials were sourced from certified suppliers, and standardized dried plant parts were used under controlled preparation conditions. Clinical assessments were performed at baseline (T0), week 1 (T1), week 5 (T2), and week 9 (T3), corresponding to the beginning of each evaluation interval within the 12-week study, using the Silness–Löe Plaque Index and the modified Löe–Silness Gingival Index. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc correction. (3) Results. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of time for both plaque accumulation and gingival index scores. For the Silness–Löe Plaque Index, a marked time-dependent reduction was observed across the active treatment groups (p < 0.001; η2p = 0.56), with a significant time × group interaction (p < 0.001; η2p = 0.49). Similarly, the modified Löe–Silness Gingival Index showed a significant reduction over time (p < 0.001; η2p = 0.22), with a significant interaction effect between time and mouthwash type (p < 0.001; η2p = 0.17). No statistically significant differences were found among the three herbal mouthwashes in post hoc Bonferroni comparisons (all p > 0.05), whereas all active treatments showed significantly better outcomes compared with the placebo. (4) Discussion. All three rinses showed similar clinical effects on plaque and gingival scores. However, without mechanistic assays, no claims can be made about comparable antibacterial or anti-inflammatory activity. Compared with conventional antiseptics such as chlorhexidine, herbal rinses offer important advantages in terms of biocompatibility, safety, and tolerability, with no staining, taste alteration, or mucosal irritation reported. At T3, the correlation between plaque and gingival indices was weak (Spearman’s ρ = 0.18, p = 0.09), suggesting limited linear association; this finding should be interpreted cautiously, as the low end-range values and limited variability of both indices at this time point may have masked a true association. This exploratory observation raises, but does not confirm, the possibility that factors other than plaque reduction may contribute to gingival improvement. (5) Conclusions. Significant reductions in dental plaque and clinical signs of gingival inflammation were observed following regular use of chamomile, sage, and ginger mouthwashes for twelve weeks. All herbal formulations exhibit similar clinical results. Longer-term controlled trials incorporating microbiological and phytochemical analyses are recommended to validate these findings further. Full article
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27 pages, 34800 KB  
Article
Antiviral and Anticancer Activities of Stingless Bee Propolis from Tetragonula drescheri and Tetragonula pagdeni: Toward Development of Prototype Healthcare Pharmaceuticals
by Karnjanee Greegrainuch, Wiratchanee Kansandee, Chamsai Pientong, Tipaya Ekalaksananan and Jureeporn Chuerduangphui
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(9), 3855; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27093855 - 27 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 764
Abstract
Honey and propolis from the stingless bees Tetragonula drescheri and Tetragonula pagdeni remain underexplored for their health-promoting application. This study investigated the bioactive compounds, and antiviral and anticancer activities of honey and propolis extracts against herpes simplex virus (HSV), and human papillomavirus (HPV-16/18)-positive [...] Read more.
Honey and propolis from the stingless bees Tetragonula drescheri and Tetragonula pagdeni remain underexplored for their health-promoting application. This study investigated the bioactive compounds, and antiviral and anticancer activities of honey and propolis extracts against herpes simplex virus (HSV), and human papillomavirus (HPV-16/18)-positive cervical cancer cells. Water and ethanol extracts were prepared and evaluated for anti-HSV activity using plaque assay, and for anticancer effects on CaSki and HeLa cells using apoptosis, colony formation, cell migration, and candidate gene expression analysis. Propolis water extract most potentially inhibited HSV wild-type and drug-resistant strains. Propolis ethanol extract from T. drescheri markedly suppressed CaSki and HeLa cell growth, induced apoptosis, downregulated HPV-16/18 E6, and upregulated BAX expression. Chemical profiles were identified by electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Most candidate compounds displayed preferable drug-likeness properties. Prototype herbal soup formulations containing selected extracts significantly inhibited HSV-1 drug-resistant strain and HPV-16 E6 expression. These findings demonstrated the high antiviral and anticancer potential of the extracted compounds from T. drescheri and T. pagdeni propolis, supporting their application in health-promoting products against HSV and HPV infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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21 pages, 988 KB  
Review
Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants and Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives
by Manasi Bhabal, Tiziana Pietrangelo, Mariantonia Logozzi and Stefano Fais
Nanomaterials 2026, 16(8), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16080483 - 18 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1560
Abstract
Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) are nanoscale carriers produced through conserved plant mechanisms, including multivesicular body (MVB) formation and consequent extracellular vesicle release. MVBs are formed through repeated rounds of intracellular vesicles’ fusion, thus leading to the incorporation into PDEVs of lipids, proteins, miRNAs, [...] Read more.
Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) are nanoscale carriers produced through conserved plant mechanisms, including multivesicular body (MVB) formation and consequent extracellular vesicle release. MVBs are formed through repeated rounds of intracellular vesicles’ fusion, thus leading to the incorporation into PDEVs of lipids, proteins, miRNAs, nucleic acids, and secondary metabolites, derived from different cellular compartments. PDEVs possess a bilayer lipid membrane, which protects their cargo from degradation and facilitates membrane–membrane fusion with target cells. Ayurvedic medicinal plants are renowned for their extensive phytochemical diversity and enduring efficacy in addressing inflammation, infections, metabolic disorders, cancer, and neurodegeneration. However, the clinical translation of traditional herbal preparation is severely bottlenecked by batch-to-batch variability, restricted compound bioavailability, mechanistic uncertainties, and limitations of conventional large-scale extractions. This perspective research study critically proposes PDEVs as an innovative interpretation for Ayurvedic medicinal plants utilization. We identify and evaluate medicinal plants with established therapeutic characteristics that remain unexamined in PDEV research, hence presenting compelling opportunities for future investigation. By establishing a synergistic bridge between ancient Ayurvedic knowledge and modern nanomedicine, this perspective provides a methodological roadmap to guide health-efficient plant selection and accelerate translational research in next-generation therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)
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