Metabolic impairments and tissue disorders in alloxan-induced diabetic rats are alleviated by Salvia officinalis L. essential oil

A Comprehensive Review of Moroccan Medicinal Plants for Diabetes Management

Moroccan flora, renowned for its diverse medicinal plant species, has long been used in traditional medicine to manage diabetes. This review synthesizes ethnobotanical surveys conducted during the last two decades. Among these plants, 10 prominent Moroccan medicinal plants are evaluated for their phytochemical composition and antidiabetic properties through both in vitro and in vivo studies. The review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the bioactive compounds identified in these plants, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Phytochemical investigations revealed a broad spectrum of secondary metabolites contributing to their therapeutic efficacy. In vitro assays demonstrated the significant inhibition of key enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase, while in vivo studies highlighted their potential in reducing blood glucose levels and enhancing insulin secretion. Among the ten plants, notable examples include Trigonella foenum-graecum, Nigella Sativa, and Artemisia herba-alba, each showcasing distinct mechanisms of action, such as enzymatic inhibition and the modulation of glucose metabolism pathways. This review underscores the necessity for further chemical, pharmacological, and clinical research to validate the antidiabetic efficacy of these plants and their active compounds, with a view toward their potential integration into therapeutic practices.

In vivo and computational investigation of butin against alloxan-induced diabetes via biochemical, histopathological, and molecular interactions

Herbs have been used as medicines since antiquity, and it has been discovered that the human body responds well to herbal remedies. Research on the effect of butin was conducted in the current study in the alloxan-induced diabetic rat paradigm. A total of 30 Wistar rats were randomly assigned into the following groups (n = 6): I-Normal; II-Alloxan-induced (50 mg/kg); III-Alloxan + butin 25 mg/kg; IV-Alloxan + butin 50 mg/kg; V-Butin per se 50 mg/kg. Various diabetic parameters (blood glucose, insulin, HbA1c), lipid profile, inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and NF-κB), antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD and GSH), oxidative stress indicators (MDA), apoptosis marker (caspase-3), hepatic markers (ALT and AST), and histopathological changes were assessed. Additionally, molecular docking and dynamics were performed to evaluate the interaction of butin with target proteins. Butin treatment, at both doses, significantly restored biochemical parameters and preserved pancreatic histopathology in diabetic rats. It effectively modulated blood parameters, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, apoptosis, antioxidant enzyme activity, oxidative stress, and hepatic markers. Molecular docking revealed that butin binds to proteins such as caspase-3 (1NME), NF-κB (1SVC), and serum insulin (4IBM) with binding affinities of - 7.4, - 6.5, and - 8.2 kcal/mol, respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations further suggested that butin induces significant conformational changes in these proteins. Butin exhibits potential effects against alloxan-induced diabetic rats by restoring biochemical balance, reducing inflammation, and protecting pancreatic tissue. Its binding to key proteins involved in apoptosis and inflammation highlights its therapeutic potential in diabetes management.

Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Potential of Essential Oils in Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Since the earliest times, essential oils (EOs) have been utilized for medicinal and traditional purposes. However, in recent decades, an increasing interest has developed due to the need to rediscover herbal remedies and adjuvant therapies for the management of various diseases, particularly chronic ones. The present narrative review examines the potential for EOs to exert hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects in diabetes mellitus, analyzing the main publications having evaluated plant species with potentially beneficial effects through their phytocompounds in diabetes mellitus and its complications. Numerous species have shown promising characteristics that can be used in diabetes management. The hypoglycemic effects of these EOs are attributed to their capacity to stimulate glucose uptake, suppress glucose production, and increase insulin sensitivity. Moreover, EOs can alleviate the oxidative stress by manifesting their antioxidant effects via a variety of mechanisms, including the scavenging of free radicals, the regulation of antioxidant enzymes, and the decreasing of lipid peroxidation, due to their diverse chemical composition. These findings demonstrate the possible benefits of EOs as adjuvant therapeutic agents in the management of diabetes and its complications. The use of EOs in the treatment of diabetes shows good potential for the development of natural and effective strategies to enhance the health outcomes of people with this chronic condition, but additional experimental endorsements are required.

The effect of Salvia officinalis on blood glycemic indexes and blood lipid profile in diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine disorders that increases the economic burden on the public health system. In this regard, understanding the effect of available herbs on diabetes can be useful. This systematic review was performed to determine the effect of Salvia officinalis on blood glycemic indexes and blood lipid profile (primary outcomes) and 2 h postprandial blood glucose (2HPPG), alanine transaminase (ALT) (U/L) and aspartate transaminase (AST) (U/L) and its side effects (secondary outcomes) in diabetic patients. A systematic search was conducted in the English (Cochrane Library, Medline (PubMed), Scopus, CINAHL, ProQuest and Persian databases since inception to March 2021, without publication time restriction. Two authors separately evaluated the quality of the articles using Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trials and extracted the data. Heterogeneity of data was evaluated by squared I (I 2). Three studies included in the review and all of them included in meta-analysis. The results of meta-analysis showed that S. officinalis reduced fasting blood sugar (FBS) (mg/dL) (MD: -31.15; 95% CI: -37.56 to -24.73; p<0.00001). It also reduced HbA1c (%) (MD: -0.94; 95% CI: -1.25 to -0.63; p<0.00001) and total cholesterol (mg/dL) (MD: -43.64; 95% CI: -83.26 to -4.02; p=0.03) and reduction of low-density protein (LDL) (mg/dL) (MD: -19.23; 95% CI: -35.81 to -2.65; p=0.02) but it did not have a significant effect on triglyceride (mg/dL) (p=0.09), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (mg/dL) (p=0.18). Regarding the secondary outcomes, S. officinalis also had significant effect on 2HPPG, but it did not have a significant effect on ALT (U/L) and AST (U/L). No specific side effects for this plant were reported in these three studies. The results showed that S. officinalis has a positive effect on blood glycemic status and blood lipid profile in diabetes except for triglyceride and HDL. However, due to the small number of included articles, it is recommended that stronger clinical trials be conducted in this field.

Chios mastiha essential oil exhibits antihypertensive, hypolipidemic and anti-obesity effects in metabolically unhealthy adults - a randomized controlled trial

The essential oil of the resinous exudate from Pistacia lentiscus of Chios namely Chios Mastiha Essential Oil (CMEO), is a natural volatile oil rich in monoterpenes α-pinene, β-myrcene, β-pinene. In the present randomized controlled trial, we investigated the effects of CMEO on individuals with abdominal obesity and metabolic abnormalities i.e., dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance. Eligible patients (N = 94) were randomly assigned to either the intervention group, receiving capsules containing 200 mg of CMEO daily for 3 months adjunct to current treatment for metabolic disorder(s), or the control group. Anthropometric measurements, blood markers, and quality of life (QoL) were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed on an intention-to-treat basis. A significant improvement in blood lipid profile, namely triglycerides (p = 0.026) and low-density lipoprotein (p = 0.05) of the CMEO group versus controls was observed. Systolic blood pressure (p = 0.05) and alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.022) significantly decreased only after CMEO intake. Alike, weight decreased only in CMEO (p = 0.02), while mean changes in % body fat (p = 0.005) and visceral fat (p = 0.045) were significantly different between groups post-intervention. Lower oxidized LDL (p = 0.044) and higher adiponectin (p = 0.007) were recorded in CMEO with significant different mean changes between groups post-intervention. QoL, as assessed by Short Form-12 questionnaire was improved in the CMEO compared to control (p = 0.041 for Physical Composite Score, p = 0.035 for Mental Composite Score). No adverse effects were reported. An anti-obesity effect of CMEO, probably attributed to modulation of inflammatory and antioxidant processes, is suggested. Conclusively, CMEO can be safe and effective in regulating metabolic abnormalities, adjunct to treatment. (ClinicalTrials.gov. The effect of Mastiha oil in Metabolic Syndrome, ID Number: NCT04785573).

Fortification of Fermented Camel Milk with Salvia officinalis L. or Mentha piperita Leaves Powder and Its Biological Effects on Diabetic Rats

The incorporation of fermented camel milk with natural additives possesses numerous benefits for the treatment of various pathological and metabolic conditions. The present study investigated the impact of fortification of fermented camel milk with sage or mint leaves powder (1 and 1.5%, respectively) on glucose and insulin levels, lipid profile, and liver and kidney functions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The gross chemical composition of sage and peppermint leaves powder was studied. The chemical composition of sage and mint extracts was performed using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) of sage and mint extracts. Furthermore, a total of forty-two adult normal male albino rats were included in this study, whereas one group was kept as the healthy control group (n = 6 rats) and diabetes was induced in the remaining animals (n = 36 rats) using alloxan injection (150 mg/kg of body weight). Among diabetic rats groups, a control group (n = 6 rats) was kept as the diabetic control group whereas the other 5 groups (6 rats per group) of diabetic rats were fed fermented camel milk (FCM) or fermented camel milk fortified with 1 and 1.5% of sage or mint leaves powder. Interestingly, the oral administration of fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder, at both concentrations, caused a significant decrease in blood glucose level and lipid profile, and an increase in insulin level compared to the diabetic control and FCM groups. Among others, the best results were observed in the group of animals that received fermented camel milk fortified with 1.5% sage powder. In addition, the results revealed that the fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder improved the liver and kidney functions of diabetic rats. Our study concluded that the use of sage and mint leaves powder (at a ratio of 1.5%) with fermented camel milk produces functional food products with anti-diabetic activity.

Chemical composition, cholinesterase, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the essential oils of some Iranian native Salvia species

BACKGROUND

The plants from Salvia genus contain widely distributed species which have been used in folk medicine as well as pharmaceutical and food industries.

METHODS

The chemical composition of 12 native Iranian Salvia species (14 plants) was identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Also, the inhibitory activity of all essential oils (EOs) was evaluated toward α-glucosidase and two types of cholinesterase (ChE) using spectrophotometric methods. The in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition assay was performed by the determination of p-nitrophenol (pNP) obtained from the enzymatic dissociation of p-nitrophenol-α-D-glucopyranoside (pNPG) as the substrate. In vitro ChE inhibitory assay was conducted based on the modified Ellman's procedure using the measurement of 5-thio-2-nitrobenzoic acid produced from the hydrolysis of thiocholine derivatives as the substrate, in the presence of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE).

RESULTS

Totally, 139 compounds were detected and caryophyllene oxide and trans-β-caryophyllene were the most abundant compounds in all EOs. The yield of EOs extracted from the plants were also calculated in the range of 0.06 to 0.96% w/w. Herein, α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of 8 EOs was reported for the first time and among all, S. spinosa L. was found to be the most potent inhibitor (90.5 inhibition at 500 μg/mL). Also, the ChE inhibitory activity of 8 species was reported for the first time and our results showed that the BChE inhibitory effect of all EOs was more potent than that of AChE. The ChE inhibition assay indicated that S. mirzayanii Rech.f. & Esfand. collected from Shiraz was the most potent inhibitor (72.68% and 40.6% at the concentration of 500 μg/mL, toward AChE and BChE, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that native Salvia species of Iran could be considered in the development of anti-diabetic and anti-Alzheimer's disease supplements.

Essential Oils: Recent Advances on Their Dual Role as Food Preservatives and Nutraceuticals against the Metabolic Syndrome

Essential oils (EO) are compounds synthesized by plants as secondary products and are a complex mixture of volatile molecules. Studies have demonstrated their pharmacological activity in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Moreover, they have been used as antimicrobial and antioxidant food additives. The first part of this review discusses the role of EO as nutraceuticals to prevent metabolic syndrome-related disorders (i.e., obesity, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases), showing results from in vitro and in vivo studies. Likewise, the second part describes the bioavailability and mechanisms of action of EO in preventing chronic diseases. The third part presents the application of EO as food additives, pointing out their antimicrobial and antioxidant activity in food formulations. Finally, the last part explains the stability and methods for encapsulating EO. In conclusion, EO dual role as nutraceuticals and food additives makes them excellent candidates to formulate dietary supplements and functional foods. However, further investigation is needed to understand EO interaction mechanisms with human metabolic pathways and to develop novel technological approaches to enhance EO stability in food systems to scale up these processes and, in this way, to overcome current health problems.

p-Synephrine ameliorates alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus through inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation via suppressing the NF-kappa B and MAPK pathways

Oxidative stress and inflammation play important roles in the development of diabetes mellitus. p-Synephrine, the primary pharmacologically active protoalkaloid in Citrus species, has been popularly consumed as a dietary supplement for weight loss management. However, the effects of p-synephrine on diabetes mellitus and the action mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated. In this study, the in vitro antioxidant effects of p-synephrine were evaluated. The data showed that p-synephrine treatment exhibited significant scavenging effects against DPPH, ABTS and OH radicals and showed high reducing power. Diabetic mice were developed by alloxan injection, followed by p-synephrine administration to investigate its hypoglycemic effects in vivo. The results showed that p-synephrine intervention significantly prevented alloxan-induced alteration in body weight, organ indexes, serum uric acid content and serum creatinine content. Meanwhile, p-synephrine application significantly improved the lipid profiles, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities and glutathione (GSH) contents in the serum and kidneys of diabetic mice and reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the serum of diabetic mice. Further assays suggested that p-synephrine treatment improved alloxan-induced decreases of glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Also, p-synephrine supplementation altered histopathological changes in the kidneys and interscapular brown adipose tissues in diabetic mice. In addition, p-synephrine administration inhibited renal inflammation through suppressing tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) gene expression levels, as well as CD45 expression levels. The anti-inflammatory effects were probably involved in the regulation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation. In conclusion, p-synephrine application significantly ameliorated alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus by inhibiting oxidative stress via suppressing the NF-κB and MAPK pathways.

Therapeutic effects of Salvia balansae on metabolic disorders and testicular dysfunction mediated by a high-fat diet in Wistar rats

Medicinal plants offer an important therapeutic resource in treatment of male infertility. We aim to evaluate the possible therapeutic effects of Salvia balansae on metabolic disorders and testicular dysfunction resulting from a high-fat diet (HFD). Antioxidant activity of aqueous extract of S. balansae leaves was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assay. Antidiabetic activity was determined by α-amylase inhibition. In vivo, HFD was administered in Wistar rats for 18 weeks and aqueous extract of S. balansae for the last 6 weeks (200 mg/Kg of body weight/day). At the term of experimentation, testosterone and some plasma parameters were analyzed and removed testes were subjected to a histomorphometric study. Our results show high levels of phenolic components in aqueous extract of S. balansae and significant antioxidant and antidiabetic activity. HFD increases body weight, causes type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, liver failure and inflammation. Also, HFD decreases testosterone and alters testis histological structure (seminiferous tubular degeneration, impaired spermatogenesis and interstitial fibrosis). Treatment of HFD rats with extract of S. balansae normalizes body weight and plasma parameters, increases testosterone and regenerates testicular structure and function. In summary, S. balansae could reduce metabolic complications induced by HFD and serve the basis for developing a new therapy for testicular dysfunction.

Harvest time explains substantially more variance in yield, essential oil and quality performances of Salvia officinalis than irrigation and putrescine application

Elicitors, irrigation regimes and harvest times influence the content, yield and compound of the essential oil (EO) in Salvia officinalis (sage), through changes in biomass dynamics and biosynthetic pathways. A two-year field experiment was conducted to determine if foliar application of putrescine under optimum and deficit stress conditions would favorably affect EO yield, content and profile of sage harvested in spring and summer. The response of dry weight, EO yield and content, myrcene and borneol concentrations to irrigation regime and putrescine concentration can be expressed by a quadratic model. The maximum dry weight (182.63 g m-2) and EO yield (1.68 g m-2) were predicted under irrigation regimes of 9.06% and 27.75% available soil water depletion (ASWD), respectively. The highest EO content (1.05%) was predicted under 3.04 mM of putrescine. Based on results obtained from GC/MS analyses, 25 compounds (mostly monoterpenes) were identified in the EO of sage. Among EO compounds, α-thujone (54.08%), 1, 8-cineole (17.87%), pinocarvone (14.30%), β-thujone (7.97%) and camphor (8.76%) in turn were the most abundant. The concentration of myrcene was higher in spring than summer under the irrigation regimes of 60% and 80% ASWD. The myrcene concentration reached its maximum (4.53%) under the irrigation regime of 86.5% ASWD. The irrigation regimes of 48.03% and 45.6% ASWD caused the highest borneol concentrations of 1.47% and 1.41% by application of 1.5 mM and 2.25 mM putrescine, respectively. All treatments tested on sage, particularly harvest time, can play an important role in the improvement of EO quality and quantity. Averaged over both years, the irrigation regime of nearly 30% ASWD resulted in the highest EO yield harvested with greater quantity and better quality in summer. The EO content and quality changed slightly with the application of putrescine, without significant effect on yield.

The Potential of Lamiaceae Herbs for Mitigation of Overweight, Obesity, and Fatty Liver: Studies and Perspectives

Numerous plants, plant extracts, and plant-derived compounds are being explored for their beneficial effects against overweight and liver diseases. Obesity is associated with the increased prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), becoming the most common liver disease in Western countries. Obesity and NAFLD are closely associated with many other metabolic alternations such as insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. Many herbs of the Lamiaceae family are widely employed as food and spices in the Mediterranean area, but also in folk medicine, and their use for the management of metabolic disorders is well documented. Hereby, we summarized the scientific results of the medicinal and nutraceutical potential of plants from the Lamiaceae family for prevention and mitigation of overweight and fatty liver. The evidence indicates that Lamiaceae plants may be a cost-effective source of nutraceuticals and/or phytochemicals to be used in the management of metabolic-related conditions such as obesity and NAFLD. PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and SciFinder were accessed to collect data on traditional medicinal plants, compounds derived from plants, their reported anti-obesity mechanisms, and therapeutic targets.

The Beneficial Effects of Essential Oils in Anti-Obesity Treatment

Obesity is a complex disease caused by an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity is a medical problem and represents an important risk factor for the development of serious diseases such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some types of cancer. Not to be overlooked are the psychological issues that, in obese subjects, turn into very serious pathologies, such as depression, phobias, anxiety, and lack of self-esteem. In addition to modifying one’s lifestyle, the reduction of body mass can be promoted by different natural compounds such as essential oils (EOs). EOs are mixtures of aromatic substances produced by many plants, particularly in medicinal and aromatic ones. They are odorous and volatile and contain a mixture of terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and esters. Thanks to the characteristics of the various chemical components present in them, EOs are used in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical fields. Indeed, it has been shown that EOs possess great antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor powers. Emerging results also demonstrate the anti-obesity effects of EOs. We have examined the main data obtained in experimental studies and, in this review, we summarize the effect of EOs in obesity and obesity-related metabolic diseases.

Antidiabetic Medicinal Plants Used in Democratic Republic of Congo: A Critical Review of Ethnopharmacology and Bioactivity Data

Several studies have been conducted and published on medicinal plants used to manage Diabetes Mellitus worldwide. It is of great interest to review available studies from a country or a region to resort to similarities/discrepancies and data quality. Here, we examined data related to ethnopharmacology and bioactivity of antidiabetic plants used in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Data were extracted from Google Scholar, Medline/PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, the Wiley Online Library, Web of Science, and other documents focusing on ethnopharmacology, pharmacology, and phytochemistry antidiabetic plants used in the Democratic Republic of Congo from 2005 to September 2021. The Kew Botanic Royal Garden and Plants of the World Online web databases were consulted to verify the taxonomic information. CAMARADES checklist was used to assess the quality of animal studies and Jadad scores for clinical trials. In total, 213 plant species belonging to 72 botanical families were reported. Only one plant, Droogmansia munamensis, is typically native to the DRC flora; 117 species are growing in the DRC and neighboring countries; 31 species are either introduced from other regions, and 64 are not specified. Alongside the treatment of Diabetes, about 78.13% of plants have multiple therapeutic uses, depending on the study sites. Experimental studies explored the antidiabetic activity of 133 plants, mainly in mice, rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Several chemical classes of antidiabetic compounds isolated from 67 plant species have been documented. Rare phase II clinical trials have been conducted. Critical issues included poor quality methodological protocols, author name incorrectly written (16.16%) or absent (14.25%) or confused with a synonym (4.69%), family name revised (17.26%) or missing (1.10%), voucher number not available 336(92.05%), ecological information not reported (49.59%). Most plant species have been identified and authenticated (89.32%). Hundreds of plants are used to treat Diabetes by traditional healers in DRC. However, most plants are not exclusively native to the local flora and have multiple therapeutic uses. The analysis showed the scarcity or absence of high-quality, in-depth pharmacological studies. There is a need to conduct further studies of locally specific species to fill the gap before their introduction into the national pharmacopeia.

Salvia Officinalis Protects Pancreatic Beta-cells Against Streptozotocin-Induced Damage; A Stereological Study

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease, progressing due to inadequate secretion of insulin by pancreas. Salvia officinalis (SVO) has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative potentials, which may be beneficial in regulating underlying causes of DM. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to estimate the protective effects of SVO against Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced pancreatic injury in rat models of DM. Methods: Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 12); C1: normal group with no treatment, C2: diabetic group with no treatment, E1: diabetic group treated with 200 mg/kg of the SVO extract, and E2: diabetic group treated with 400 mg/kg of the SVO extract. All groups received a single dose of STZ on day 7 except C1. Pancreas volume, shrinkage, volume densities of the islets, numerical densities, and volume of the beta cells were measured using stereological methods. Results: Blood sugar (BS) levels were significantly lower in SVO-treated groups comparing to C2 group. Also, volume densities and total number of islets and beta cells in E1 and E2 groups were higher than C2 (P < 0.05), but lower than C1 (P < 0.05). Volume densities of the islets and beta cells, and total number of beta cells in E1, and volume densities of the islets and beta cells in E2 groups were considerably higher than C2 group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Our result showed the beneficial effects of SVO extract regarding pancreatic damage. We concluded that SVO might be prescribed as a therapeutic food supplement for patients with diabetes.

Antidiabetic and hypolipidemic potential of Campomanesia xanthocarpa seed extract obtained by supercritical CO2

Abstract Campomanesia xanthocarpa, a plant belonging to the Myrtaceae family, is popularly known as gabiroba. Leaves of gabiroba has been popularly used to treat various diseases, including inflammatory, renal, and digestive, among others. Additionally, studies have shown an effect to reduce blood cholesterol levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antihyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Campomanesia xanthocarpa seed extract in hyperglycemic rats. The results showed that 400 mg/kg of seed extract was able to decrease blood glucose levels and to increase the muscular and hepatic glycogen content as well as to inhibit the sucrase and maltase activity. At doses of 200 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg, the activity of these enzymes was also reduced. In the lipid profile 400 mg/kg produced a decrease in total and LDL cholesterol serum levels; and with 200 mg/kg there was an increase in HDL cholesterol levels. The extract did not present hepatic and renal toxic effects at the different doses tested. The results suggest that the treatment with Campomanesia xanthocarpa seeds extract is useful in reducing glycemia, total cholesterol and LDL levels with potential adjuvant therapeutic in the treatment of diabetes and hypercholesterolemia, however, additional pharmacological and toxicological studies are still required.

Polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: An update of preclinical and clinical studies

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most urgent problems to be solved. To date, only a lifestyle modification related to diet and physical activity is considered for these patients. Polyphenols are a group of plant natural products that when regularly consumed has been related to a reduction in the risk of several metabolic disorders associated with NAFLD. In this study, we aimed to present an overview of the relationship between polyphenols and NAFLD with current approaches.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature search for articles on polyphenols and NAFLD published in English between January 2018 to August 2020. Keywords included in this review: "Phenolic" OR "Polyphenol" AND "Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease". The editorials, communications and conference abstracts were excluded.

RESULTS

Different polyphenols decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokines in both serum and liver that contribute to a decrease in fatty liver dysfunction. Additionally, polyphenols may improve the regulation of adipokines and prevent hepatic steatosis. According to human clinical studies, polyphenols are promising for NAFLD patients and associated diseases that lead to NAFLD.

CONCLUSION

Preclinical and clinical studies suggest that various polyphenols could prevent steatosis and its progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, as well as ameliorate NAFLD. However, more clinical studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.

The Role of Essential Oils and Their Main Compounds in the Management of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a global health burden that greatly impact patient quality of life and account for a huge number of deaths worldwide. Despite current therapies, several side effects have been reported that compromise patient adherence; thus, affecting therapeutic benefits. In this context, plant metabolites, namely volatile extracts and compounds, have emerged as promising therapeutic agents. Indeed, these compounds, in addition to having beneficial bioactivities, are generally more amenable and present less side effects, allowing better patient tolerance. The present review is an updated compilation of the studies carried out in the last 20 years on the beneficial potential of essential oils, and their compounds, against major risk factors of CVDs. Overall, these metabolites show beneficial potential through a direct effect on these risk factors, namely hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes, or by acting on related targets, or exerting general cellular protection. In general, monoterpenic compounds are the most studied regarding hypotensive and anti-dyslipidemic/antidiabetic properties, whereas phenylpropanoids are very effective at avoiding platelet aggregation. Despite the number of studies performed, clinical trials are sparse and several aspects related to essential oil’s features, namely volatility and chemical variability, need to be considered in order to guarantee their efficacy in a clinical setting.

Anti-oxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Salvia officinalis essential oil against vanadium-induced oxidative stress and histological changes in the rat liver

The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of Salvia officinalis essential oil (SOEO) against vanadium-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Animals were divided into three groups: the first group served as the control (C), where rats received daily 0.5 mL of saline solution (0.9%) given by intraperitoneal (i.p.) way. Rats in the second group (V) received daily by i.p. way 5 mg/kg BW of NH₄VO₃ (V). Rats in the third group (SV) received daily V (5 mg/kg BW) by i.p. way and SOEO (15 mg/kg BW) by gavage. Animals were sacrificed after 4 or 10 days of treatment. Administration of V increased plasma ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH activities, and cholesterol, bilirubin, triglyceride, and NO levels in rats and reduced anti-oxidant enzyme activities in the liver. Treatment with SOEO significantly attenuated these changes. Moreover, the histopathological changes and the overexpression of Hsp72/73 proteins induced by V were significantly improved by SOEO. Therefore, our results suggested that SOEO could protect against V-induced oxidative damage in rat livers. The hepatoprotective effect of SOEO might be attributed to its modulation of detoxification enzymes and/or to its anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging effects.

Modulation of the antioxidant defense system in liver, kidney, and pancreas tissues of alloxan-induced diabetic rats by camphor

Excess production of reactive oxygen species and the loss of antioxidant efficiency systems play an important role in the development of diabetes. Thus, using antioxidant compounds is an important strategy to reduce these complications. This study aimed to investigate the possible effect of camphor on the serum biochemical parameters and oxidative parameters in the pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. In this study, 40 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, including normal group, diabetic group, the diabetic group treated with glibenclamide, the diabetic group treated with 30 mg/kg camphor, and the diabetic group receiving the camphor solvent. Intragastric administration of camphor and glibenclamide, as the control drug, to diabetic rats for 21 days lowered their blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-cholesterol, while the blood high-density lipoprotein -cholesterol level was increased. In addition, our results indicated that treatment of diabetic rats with camphor increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase enzymes as well as reduced glutathione content in the liver, pancreas, and kidney tissues as compared to the diabetic rats. Based on our data, it can be concluded that camphor has a hypoglycemic activity, and this effect may be attributed, in part, to its antioxidant ability. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Camphor is a terpenoid natural compound derived from the wood present in the camphor laurel's stem and roots (Cinnamomum camphora L.) trees. The synthetic form of camphor is currently being produced for medical, health, and industrial applications. In addition, this compound is present in Rosmarinus officinalis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Salvia officinalis, Artemisia Annua, and Ocimum basilicum. Numerous researches have shown its beneficial effects on various diseases. In this study, it has been shown that camphor possesses antidiabetic effects in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Treatment of diabetic rats with camphor increased the antioxidant capacity and reduces the oxidative stress markers in the liver, pancreas, and kidney tissues as compared to the diabetic rats. Given the favorable effect of camphor on some oxidative parameters in diabetic rats in our study, its antihyperglycemic property is probably due to its antioxidant effects.

Anti-diabetic and lipid-lowering effects of drimane sesquiterpenoids isolated from Zygogynum pancheri

Recently, it has been shown that drimane-type sesquiterpenoids isolated from Zygogynum pancheri, a species native to New Caledonia, possessed significant α-amylase inhibitory activities. To further explore their antidiabetic potential, we investigated the effect of 1β-O-(E-cinnamoyl)-6α-hydroxy-9epi-polygodial (D) and 1β-E-O-p-methoxycinnamoyl-bemadienolide (L), two of the most active compounds of the series, on diabetic model rats. Compounds D and L (2 mg kg/day) were daily and orally administrated for 30 days to streptozotocin (STZ) (150 mg/kg) induced male diabetic Wistar rats. Animals were allocated into five groups of six rats. Comparatively to diabetic rats, treatments with D and L compounds were able to significantly (P < 0.05) decrease Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) (70.15%, 71.02%), serum total cholesterol (46.27% and 39.38%), triglycerides (56.60% and 58.15%), creatinine (37.31% and 36.49%) and uric acid levels (67.76% and 69.68%), respectively. Compounds D and L also restored the altered plasma enzyme (aspartate aminotransferase, AST (47.83% and 43.20%), alanine aminotransferase, ALT (49.76% and 48.35%, alkaline phosphatase, ALP (72.78% and 73.21%)) and lactate dehydrogenase, LDH (47.95% and 53.93%) levels to near normal, respectively. Administration of Glymepiride, significantly (p < 0.05) reduced FBG (73.94%) in STZ induced diabetic rats. Additionally, the compounds D and L exhibited inhibitory effects in vivo on lipase activity of diabetic rats (54.83% and 52.25%), respectively. The outcomes of this study suggested that these two drimanes could be considered as efficient hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antiobesity agents for diabetes management and its complications.

Selected essential oils and their mechanisms for therapeutic use against public health disorders. An overview

Today, the numbers of people suffering from lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity, allergies and depression increases mainly in industrialised states. That does not only lower patients' quality of life but also severely stresses the health care systems of these countries. Essential oils (EO) have been in use as therapeutic remedies for centuries against various complaints, but still their effectiveness is being underestimated. In the last decades, a great number of controlled studies have supported efficacy of these volatile secondary plant metabolites for various therapeutic indications. Besides others, EO has antidepressant, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antifirogenic and antiallergic effects. In this review the pharmacological mechanisms for selected EO are summarised and discussed with the main attention on their impact against public health disorders. Additionally, toxicity of these oils as well as possible drug interactions is presented.