Biological Activity of Plant Extracts

Dear Colleagues,

The use of plants for their beneficial effects dates back to the first steps in human history, as shown by Ebers Papyrus. The knowledge of their healing properties has been transmitted over the centuries within and among human communities. Phytochemicals’ secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, phenols, saponins, carbohydrates, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, or volatile oils are responsible for their biological activities. However, a number of studies report that the activity of plant extracts as the mixture of bioactive constituents produces synergistic effects. Nevertheless, the mechanisms responsible for synergistic of metabolites on the different activities have not been explained yet due to the complex nature of plant extracts. The aim of this Special Issue is to collect original research articles, as well as review articles, addressing recent advances in the extraction, chemical characterization, and potential biological activities of medicinal plants. The in vitro and in vivo biological activities shown by plant extracts will also be considered.

Dr. Carmen Formisano
Prof. Dr. Vincenzo De Feo
Dr. Laura De Martino
Topic Editors