Search Results (161)

Wine is the world’s leading alcoholic beverage, with Greece having a centuries-old history of winemaking processes. A common practice among winemakers is the addition of herbs and plants to wine, which is believed to increase its antioxidant capacity. A well-known example is retsina, produced from resin. This paper is based on the study of Roditis Alepou (Roditis Fox) and Muscat of Patras, two euphemistic grape varieties of Achaia, at different stages of maturity, with the addition of ginger to prepare ginger-enriched wine. Ginger is considered one of the most ancient plants, with its main cultivation countries being India and Malaysia. The present study included physicochemical analyses, involving total and effective acidity of the samples, antioxidant capacity, total phenolics, and pigments in the spectra of 420, 520, and 620 nm. This work aimed to study the wine prepared by these indigenous grape varieties of Achaia with added ginger at different concentrations (0.2%, 0.5%, and 1.2%, w/v) post-fermentation, and to determine if it conforms with the typical physicochemical characteristics of dry white wine. An increase in total and effective acidity of the samples was observed. Some fluctuations in total phenolics and antioxidant capacity were noted. Finally, pigments showed increased values in all three spectra. The organoleptic evaluation yielded encouraging results, leading us to conclude that the product warrants further study, with prospects for producing wine aromatized with ginger or ginger extract. Full article

Background: Numerous degenerative diseases are brought on by inflammation and oxidative stress. Metabolites from plants contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Indigenous and understudied, Thottea sivarajanii is a significant ethnobotanical herb. It is native to the Western Ghats and belongs to the Aristolochiaceae family. Objectives: The current study investigated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of T. sivarajanii leaf methanol extract (TSL) and the insights provided by phytochemical analysis. Methods: The HRLC–MS/MS (Q-TOF) study is used for the phytochemical analysis. The antioxidant efficacy is evaluated in terms of DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging, and reducing power (FRAP assay). In vitro anti-inflammatory efficacy was evaluated on RAW 264.7 cells challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Result: The HRLC–MS/MS (Q-TOF) study indicated the presence of bioactive molecules such as ursolic acid, Daidzein 4’,7-diglucoside, Calophyllin B, and Berbamine, etc. The results showed in vitro antioxidant capacity in DPPH, and ABTS, radical scavenging, and ferric-reducing activities with respective IC₅₀ and EC₅₀ values of 184.5 ± 2.4, 24.15 ± 0.13, and 4.94 ± 0.32 µg/mL, respectively. LPS significantly stimulated the production of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in RAW 264.7 cells (p < 0.001). Treatment with TSL reduced levels of IL-1β and IL-6 from 776.1 ± 11.4 and 1678.1 ± 12.4 to 195.4 ± 9.2 and 465.4 ± 11.8 pg/mg protein. It also reduced NO levels from 91.4 ± 1.3 to 30.8 ± 1.7 µM/mg protein while reducing TNF-α levels from 2041.2 ± 15.1 to 1037.5 ± 15.4 pg/mg protein. Conclusions: This work contributes to the growing evidence supporting the pharmacological importance of the underexplored Thottea sivarajanii, highlighting this species as a promising candidate for natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Full article

What is a plant? A photosynthesizing organism, molecule, commodity, songs, images, oniric experience, spirit…Indigenous perspectives show that plants cannot be thought of without the relationships that constitute them. We contextualize our reflection in plant extractive activities that, by reducing sociality with these non-humans to anonymous, non-situated knowledge, feed a transit of knowledge based on a relational extractivism. Thus, in this article, based on one historical case and another ethnographic one involving two South American plants—cinchona (Cinchona officinalis) and matico (Piper aduncum)—we present a reflection on plant agency from the perspective of Amazonian peoples, with the intention of showing how these beings are conceived of as subjects who are part of kinship relations, but also of predation. We take shamanic and artistic experiences as ethnographic cases to argue that the Western categories of biology are insufficient to define and circumscribe the so-called plant kingdom according to certain Amazonian conceptions. Full article

Current consumer trends for meat production with reduced antibiotic use constitute huge challenges in animal farming. Using indigenous raw materials such as aromatic or medicinal plants or their extracts could positively affect or retain animals’ health. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of medicinal plant extracts and essential oils on pig performance parameters, health indices and meat quality. A phytobiotic mixture (PM) consisting of oregano (Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum) essential oil, rock samphire (Crithmum maritimum L.) essential oil, garlic flour (Allium sativum L.) and false flax flour (Camelina sativa L. Crantz) was used in pig diets, containing in the experimental trials two different proportions of the oregano essential oil (200 mL/t of feed vs. 400 mL/t of feed). Three groups of weaned pigs were fed either the control diet (CONT) or one of the enriched diets (PM-A or PM-B, 2 g/kg). After a 43-day feeding period, at 77 days of age, blood was taken from the jugular vein for biochemical and hematological tests, and eight pigs were humanely slaughtered. A microbiological analysis of intestinal digesta from the ileum and caecum was conducted. Additionally, meat tissue cuts (biceps femoris, external abdominal and triceps brachii) were collected for a chemical analysis, fatty acid lipid profile and oxidative stability testing. The statistical analysis revealed no differences (p > 0.05) in the body weights and growth rates among the groups. An increase (p < 0.05) in total aerobic bacteria was detected in the ileum of group PM-A, while Escherichia coli (E. coli) counts were reduced (p < 0.05) in group PM-B. In the caecum, reductions in Enterobacteriaceae and Lactobacillaceae counts were observed in groups PM-A and PM-B. Concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) as an indicator of lipid peroxidation were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in triceps brachii and biceps femoris for both groups PM-A and PM-B (day 0). A reduction (p < 0.05) in MDA was noticed in triceps brachii and external abdominal meat samples (day 7) for groups PM-A and PM-B. In addition, the fatty acid profile of the meat lipids (ΣPUFA, h/H and PUFA/SFA ratios) was positively modified (p < 0.05) in the ham and belly cuts. The addition of the PM significantly (p < 0.05) affected the redness of the ham and shoulder meat (a* value increased), the yellowness of only the ham (b* value decreased) and the lightness of both belly (L* value increased) and ham samples (L* value decreased). The meat proximate analysis, as well as hematological and biochemical parameters, did not identify any differences (p > 0.05) between the groups. In conclusion, the two investigated mixtures could be used in weaned pigs’ diets, with positive results in intestinal microbial modulation, oxidative stability, fatty acid profile and color characteristics of the pork meat produced. Full article

This review highlights the significant therapeutic properties of four indigenous plants in the United Arab Emirates. These include Capparis spinosa L. (family: Capparaceae), commonly known as caper and locally referred to as Kabir; Citrullus colocynthis (L) Schrad. (family: Cucurbitaceae), known in English as bitter apple and locally as Alhanzal; Morus alba L. (family: Moraceae), referred to as white mulberry and locally named Firsad; and Rhazya stricta Decne. (family: Apocynaceae), commonly called harmal-e-shami and known locally as Alhi-rimi. These species are traditionally used for various ethnobotanical purposes and are important components of the region’s flora, such as managing diabetes and associated metabolic disorders. These plants contain diverse bioactive compounds with notable pharmacological activities. For example, caper exhibits antidiabetic effects through flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, which enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels. Bitter apple is rich in cucurbitacins and alkaloids that lower glycated hemoglobin and support pancreatic β-cell function. White mulberry contains chlorogenic acid, rutin, and 1-deoxynojirimycin, which improve glucose uptake, inhibit α-glucosidase, and reduce oxidative stress. Harmal-e-shami exhibits variable antidiabetic activity, including dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibition and enhancement of glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion, which is influenced by the type and dosage of the extract. Despite these promising effects, challenges remain in standardization, phytochemical variability, and clinical validation. This review underscores the therapeutic potential of these plants and recommends further research for their integration into sustainable, plant-based diabetes management strategies. Full article

Pulque, an available traditional Mexican fermented beverage, has deep ethnographic and cultural significance. It was originally consumed by pre-Columbian civilizations, including the Teotihuacanos, Mexicas, Otomies, Zapotecas, Mixtecas, and Maya. It was revered as a sacred drink with both ceremonial and medicinal uses, often reserved for elites and priests. Its production is based on the ancestral extraction and fermentation of aguamiel, a sweet sap obtained from agave plants. While advances in food technology have occurred, traditional techniques for obtaining and fermenting aguamiel remain prevalent, especially in rural communities, reflecting the resilience of indigenous knowledge systems. Recent interest in pulque has focused on its nutritional content and potential health benefits when consumed in moderation, though risks related to excessive intake remain a concern. Moreover, cultural initiatives aim to revitalize indigenous heritage through gastronomic promotion, tourism routes, and festive traditions. This study explores pulque’s production processes, its cultural symbolism, and its evolving role within Mexican society, suggesting that its survival reflects both continuity and adaptation in the face of modernity. This paper is also presented as a narrative integrative review to explore the biocultural significance of pulque across the anthropological, historical, biochemical, and public-health domains. Full article

The cryopreservation of boar sperm effectively extends its storage period but often leads to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, compromising sperm quality. Plant extracts, rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce ROS. Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum), also known as the “ruby of cereals”, is nutritionally rich and holds potential as a cryoprotective additive. This study aimed to determine the optimal concentration of extracts from different parts of djulis, including unhulled seeds and stems, for effective boar semen cryopreservation. Fresh semen from Taiwan indigenous boars was diluted with a modified GLT-cryoprotectant extender containing glycerol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and trehalose. The experimental groups included DSS25, DSS50, DS25, and DS50—representing djulis unshelled seed at 25 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL, and djulis stem at 25 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL in distilled water, respectively—alongside a control group without additives. Post-thaw assessments included sperm motility, kinetic parameters, viability, acrosome integrity, and the antioxidant properties of djulis extracts, such as DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic acid content. Results showed that total motility (TM) was significantly higher in the DSS25 (48.8 ± 3.9), DSS50 (49.0 ± 6.7), and DS50 (49.0 ± 2.4) groups compared to the control group (31.3 ± 4.8). Similarly, progressive motility (PM) was significantly improved in DSS25 (27.5 ± 2.7) and DSS50 (26.8 ± 4.1) versus the control (12.8 ± 3.2). However, for straightness (STR), the control group (87.8 ± 1.3) exhibited significantly higher values than the DS50 group (83.5 ± 1.3) (p < 0.05). Viability and acrosome integrity showed no significant differences across groups. In conclusion, djulis extracts positively influence sperm motility and forward movement, with 1% djulis extract confirmed to enhance the quality of cryopreserved semen. Future research will focus on determining the optimal dosage of djulis extract for improved cryopreservation outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ginseng (Panax japonicus var. major) is a traditional medicinal plant with anticancer properties. We aimed to assess the biological activity, potential targets, and molecular mechanisms of P. japonicus var. major in resisting gastric cancer. Methods: We developed a model that combines network pharmacology, molecular docking, untargeted metabolomics, and molecular dynamics simulations to predict which compounds from P. japonicus var. major might be active in the treatment of gastric cancer. We conducted in vitro experiments and immunoblot validation to test these predictions. Results: We identified 44 main active compounds from P. japonicus var. major and 29 core targets. These compounds showed anti-gastric cancer activity against the HGC-27 cell line by acting on TNF and T-cell receptor signaling pathways to diminish inflammatory factor production and promote apoptosis of gastric cancer cells. Clinical survival analysis identified four core proteins (CASP3, TNF, AKT1, and EGFR) whose abundance was associated with survival status in gastric cancer patients. Molecular docking, along with molecular dynamics simulations, revealed that these core proteins could be stably bound by the identified active compounds. The anti-gastric cancer effects of P. japonicus var. major compounds involved a lower Bcl-2/Bax ratio and upregulation of CASP3 and CASP9 levels, highlighting significant differences in anti-gastric cancer activity between extracts prepared from fresh versus dried P. japonicus var. major. Conclusions: Our results provide background for the indigenous medicinal use of P. japonicus var. major to treat gastric cancer and lay the foundation for further pharmacological experiments and clinical tests. Full article

Research on fish skin artefacts’ dyeing practices among the Nivkh, Nanai, Ulchi, Udegei, Oroch, and Negidal Indigenous Peoples of the Amur River basin remains scarce. These fishing communities traditionally crafted fish skin garments, essential to their subsistence and spiritual life, adorning them with protective motifs. While artistic and cultural aspects of these belongings have been explored, their dyeing techniques remain understudied. This multidisciplinary research examines natural colourants in fish skin artefacts from international museum collections, using historical textual research, ethnographic records, Native Traditional Knowledge, and previous dye analysis by museum conservators. Findings reveal a restricted but meaningful palette of red, blue, yellow, and black colourants, sourced from plants, minerals, and organic materials. Early dyers extracted blue from indigotin-rich plants such as Polygonum tinctorium, or from Commelina communis petals. Red hues were obtained from Carthamus tinctorius petals, introduced through Silk Route trade networks, or from minerals like red ochre. Black was derived from carbon black, while riverine minerals were ground with dry fish roe diluted with water to create additional colour variations. This study first reviews fish skin use in Amur River Indigenous cultures, explores nineteenth-century dyeing materials and techniques, and finally considers broader implications for Indigenous material heritage. Full article

Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) was recently employed in many fields to obtain a rapid characterization of plant extracts. Kigelia africana (family Bignoniaceae) is a quintessential African herbal medicinal plant with immense indigenous medicinal and non-medicinal applications. The aim of the present research was to obtain an in-depth metabolite profiling of the K. africana stem bark extract using UHPLC-HRMS and to conduct a preliminary screening of its anticancer activity against a panel of malignant human cell lines of different origin. The UHPLC-HRMS analysis revealed 63 secondary metabolites including phenolic acids, gallo- and ellagitannins, iridoids, naphthoquinones, and anthraquinones. A total of 34 of all annotated compounds are reported for the first time in K. africana stem bark. The studied profile was dominated by trimethylellagic acid, dimethylellagic acid isomers, and ellagic acid. In all tumor models, we established a pronounced inhibition of cell growth in a mostly dose-dependent manner, with IC₅₀ values ranging near and well below (4–30 µg/mL) the lowest treatment concentration of 25 µg/mL. The established cytotoxicity profile of the K. africana extract, highly biased toward malignantly transformed but not normal cells, suggests specific modulation of defined molecular tumor targets. This study revealed K. africana stem bark as a new source of gallo- and ellagitannins, and highlighted the studied herbal drug as an antiproliferative agent with potential pharmaceutical application. Full article

There are distinct management approaches for communal properties and commercial agricultural properties concerning bush encroachment. The utilisation of community-based knowledge possesses the capacity to enhance our comprehension of localised circumstances and provide valuable experience in endeavours targeted at supporting local communities. The perception of bush encroachment control as a sustained endeavour rather than a singular occurrence is of utmost importance. This may include considering other solutions that may not always be the most convenient or cost-effective. The objective of this study was to evaluate the predominant methods employed by rural communities in semi-arid savannah rangelands in Southern Africa to manage bush encroachment. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a literature search was conducted in the field of communal strategies of bush encroachment management. The findings of this study indicate that the predominant and commonly utilised management strategy for mitigating bush encroachment includes the extraction of plants for medicinal applications, followed by firewood extraction. Indigenous and traditional knowledge systems have played a pivotal role in communal bush encroachment management. It is recommended that communal approaches to bush encroachment management in Southern Africa’s semi-arid savannah rangelands harness the power of indigenous knowledge while benefiting from modern scientific insights, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable management practices. This can be accomplished by fostering community involvement and active participation, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, enhancing skills and expertise, preserving and safeguarding indigenous wisdom through documentation, and harmoniously blending traditional and scientific methodologies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Euphorbia neriifolia is a succulent plant from the therapeutically rich family of Euphorbia comprising 2000 species globally. E. neriifolia is used in Indigenous Guyanese asthma therapy. Methods: To investigate E. neriifolia’s therapeutic potential, traditionally heated leaf, simple leaf, and latex extracts were evaluated for phytohormones and therapeutic compounds. Full scan, data-dependent acquisition, and parallel reaction monitoring modes via liquid chromatography Orbitrap mass spectrometry were used for screening. Results: Pathway analysis of putative features from all extracts revealed a bias towards the phenylpropanoid, terpenoid, and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways. A total of 850 compounds were annotated using various bioinformatics tools, ranging from confidence levels 1 to 3. Lipids and lipid-like molecules (34.35%), benzenoids (10.24%), organic acids and derivatives (12%), organoheterocyclic compounds (12%), and phenylpropanoids and polyketides (10.35%) dominated the contribution of compounds among the 13 superclasses. Semi-targeted screening revealed 14 out of 16 literature-relevant therapeutic metabolites detected, with greater upregulation in traditional heated extracts. Targeted screening of 39 phytohormones resulted in 25 being detected and quantified. Simple leaf extract displayed 4.4 and 45 times greater phytohormone levels than traditional heated leaf and latex extracts, respectively. Simple leaf extracts had the greatest nucleotide and riboside cytokinin and acidic phytohormone levels. In contrast, traditional heated extracts exhibited the highest free base and glucoside cytokinin levels and uniquely contained methylthiolated and aromatic cytokinins while lacking acidic phytohormones. Latex samples had trace gibberellic acid levels, the lowest free base, riboside, and nucleotide levels, with absences of aromatic, glucoside, or methylthiolated cytokinin forms. Conclusions: In addition to metabolites with possible therapeutic value for asthma treatment, we present the first look at cytokinin phytohormones in the species and Euphorbia genus alongside metabolite screening to present a comprehensive assessment of heated leaf extract used in Indigenous Guyanese asthma therapy. Full article

Cinnamomum osmophloeum, commonly known as indigenous cinnamon, is a tree species native to Taiwan’s hardwood forests. It has been extensively investigated for its chemical composition and bioactivities. Several reports have shown that C. osmophloeum leaves are rich in aromatic oils, which are grouped into various chemotypes based on their major constituents. Components of the volatile oils included phenylpropanoids, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, phenols, coumarins, and other miscellaneous compounds. In addition, other secondary metabolites previously identified in this species included flavonol glycosides, phenolic acids, lignans, proanthocyanidins, and cyclopropanoids. C. osmophloeum is widely recognized for its medicinal and industrial applications, particularly its essential oils. In general, essential oils exhibit remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, enabling them to modulate key inflammatory mediators and neutralize free radicals. This review explored the phytochemical composition of the essential oils and extracts from C. osmophloeum as well as therapeutic potential of this species, focusing on the action mechanisms and clinical potential. We hope that this review will contribute to a better understanding of the biological effects of this plant and its potential applications in the management of conditions associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. Full article

Tapirira guianensis is a tropical plant found in South America and is widely used by indigenous communities owing to its medicinal properties. Its seeds are rich in phenolic compounds that are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Despite its traditional use, there are limited scientific data on the biological activities of its seed extracts, especially in the context of antimalarial and cytoprotective effects. In this study, we investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant potential, cytotoxic effects, and antimalarial properties of hydroethanolic, ethanolic, and aqueous seed extracts. A 1:1 (v/v) water/ethanol combination efficiently extracted bioactive compounds and delivered the highest phenolic compound content. Furthermore, the hydroethanolic extracts exhibited significant biological activities, including an ability to reduce cancer-cell viability, protect against damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), and decrease chromosomal aberrations, while exhibiting high efficacy against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains. Hence, the use of T. guianensis seed extract as a natural source of bioactive compounds with cytoprotective, antiproliferative, antioxidant, and antimalarial properties is innovative and highlights the need for additional in vivo studies to better elucidate its mechanisms of action and safety. Full article

Leishmaniasis, a complex disease caused by protozoal parasites of the genus Leishmania, presents various clinical forms, particularly a cutaneous clinical form. Treatment is typically performed with pentavalent antimonial and amphotericin B, both of which have severe side effects that hinder patient compliance. This emphasizes the need for the development of new, effective, and safe treatments. In this study, the leishmanicidal activity of the methanolic extract, an alkaloid-enriched fraction and dicentrine, the main alkaloid of the leaves of Ocotea puberula (Lauraceae), a native Brazilian plant traditionally used by the indigenous population to treat skin affections, was investigated in vitro. Additionally, an in vivo study evaluated the efficacy of a topical cream containing 0.5% dicentrine. The in vitro studies demonstrated high activity and selectivity of methanolic extract, alkaloid-enriched fraction, and dicentrine against the promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania (Leishmnia) amazonensis and Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis. The leishmanicidal effect of dicentrine was related to the modulation of macrophage microbicidal activity. A cream containing 0.5% dicentrine showed high stability and, in permeation studies, dicentrine was retained in a skin-mimicking artificial membrane. This cream effectively inhibited the progression of the skin lesion in BALB/c mice infected with L. (L.) amazonensis, together with a reduced parasite number. Thus, dicentrine offers a promising alternative to the treatment of skin leishmaniasis. Full article