Antioxidant and antilisterial effect of seed essential oil and organic extracts from Zizyphus jujuba

Production of New Biopesticides from Cymbopogon citratus for the Control of Coffee Rust (Hemileia vastatrix) under Laboratory and Field Conditions

One of the diseases with the greatest economic impact on coffee cultivation worldwide and particularly in Peru is coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix). The search for sustainable control methods as disease management strategies in coffee cultivation is necessary. The objective of this research was to determine the effectiveness of five biopesticides based on lemon verbena (Cymbopogon citratus) for the control of rust applied in laboratory and field conditions to allow the recovery of coffee (Coffea arabica L. var. typica) in La Convención, Cusco, Peru. Five biopesticides (oil, macerate, infusion, hydrolate and Biol) and four concentrations (0, 15, 20 and 25%) were evaluated. The biopesticides were evaluated under laboratory conditions (light and dark) at different concentrations. The design used was completely randomized in a factorial scheme. The biopesticides were incorporated into the culture medium and inoculated with 400 uredospores of rust, and the germination percentage was evaluated. Under field conditions, the biopesticides at the same concentrations were evaluated for 4 weeks after application. Under these field conditions, the incidence, severity and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) of selected plants with a natural degree of infection were evaluated. In the laboratory, the results showed that all biopesticides were effective in reducing the germination of rust uredospores to values <1% of germination in relation to the control, which showed values of 61% and 75% in the light and dark, respectively, independent of the concentration used, with no significant differences between them. In the field, 25% oil promoted the best response with values <1% and 0% incidence and severity, respectively, in the first two weeks after application. The AUDPC for this same treatment showed values of 7 in relation to 1595 of the control. Cymbopogon citratus oil is an excellent biopesticide that can be used to control coffee rust.

Bioactive Compounds (BACs): A Novel Approach to Treat and Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the leading disorders of serious death and cause huge economic loss to patients and society. It is estimated that about 18 million people have a high death ratio due to the incidence of CVDs such as (stroke, coronary heart disease, and non-ischemic heart failure). Bioactive compounds (BACs) are healthy nutritional ingredients providing beneficial effects and nutritional value to the human body. Epidemiological studies strongly shed light on several bioactive compounds that are favorable candidates for CVDs treatment. Globally, the high risk of CVDs and related results on human body parts made them a serious scenario in all communities. In this present review, we intend to collect previously published data concerned over the years concerning green-colored foods and their BACs that aim to work in the prevention, diagnosis, and/or systematic treating CVDs. We also comprehensively discussed the oral delivery of several bioactive compounds derived from fruits and vegetables and their bioavailability and physiological effects on human health. Moreover, their important characteristics, such as anti-inflammatory, lowering blood pressure, anti-obesity, antioxidant, anti-diabetics, lipid-lowering responses, improving atherosclerosis, and cardioprotective properties, will be elaborated further. More precisely, medicinal plants' advantages and multifaceted applications have been reported in this literature to treat CVDs. To the best of our knowledge, this is our first attempt that will open a new window in the area of CVDs with the opportunity to achieve a better prognosis and effective treatment for CVDs.

Distribution of polyphenolic compounds, antioxidant potential, and free amino acids in Ziziphus fruits extract; a study for determining the influence of wider geography

Ziziphus fruits have attracted much attention within the field of medicine due to their high potential against central nervous system disorders. Abundance of secondary metabolites and their composition is key to the pharmaceutical potential and commercial qualities of plants. The in vitro antioxidant activities of Ziziphus nummularia (Burm. f.) and Ziziphus oxyphylla Edgew fruit extract were analyzed using 2,2‐diphenil‐1‐pycrilhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzothiazoline)‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) free radical scavenging assay methods. Phenolic profiles were explored using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD). The result revealed high concentration of polyphenols and their antioxidant potential. In Z. nummularia, the total phenolic content (TPC) (80.270 ± 0.422 μg/ml), DPPH (62.03 ± 0.98 μg/ml), ABTS (66.32 ± 0.73 μg/ml), and TFC (90.683 ± 0.274 μg/ml) were recorded. However, in Z. oxyphylla, DPPH and ABTS values were 60.66 ± 0.56 μg/ml and 61.55 ± 0.77 μg/ml, respectively, indicative of the impacts of climate and soil nutrients. The overall screening of phytochemicals revealed that both the Ziziphus species contain diverse bioactive compounds, including spinacetine‐3‐O‐(2 feruloyl glucopyranosyl)‐glucopyranoside, kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucoside‐7‐O‐glucoside, and caffeic acid; p‐hydroxybenzoyl hexose, p‐coumaric acid, salicylic acid, and ellagic acid pentoxide. Additionally, the highest concentrated amino acid noted was of Lue 0.19 g/100 g with 596.00 retention time (RT), followed by Thr>Ale>Isl>Phya>Val in Z. nummularia. Similarly, the highest concentration of Lue amino acid was recorded as 0.18/100 g with 564.52 RT followed by Pr>Thr>Ale>Lue>Isl>Phya>Val in all genotypes of Z. oxyphylla. Reporting of polyphenols rich and stable species along with identification of favorable regions of cultivation for amino acid, polyphenols, and higher antioxidant potential may lead the way for the identification of elite clones of the species as well as may result in new drug discovery.

Jujuboside B Inhibits Neointimal Hyperplasia and Prevents Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Dedifferentiation, Proliferation, and Migration via Activation of AMPK/PPAR-γ Signaling

The uncontrolled proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells is a critical step in the pathological process of restenosis caused by vascular intimal hyperplasia. Jujuboside B (JB) is one of the main biologically active ingredients extracted from the seeds of Zizyphus jujuba (SZJ), which has the properties of anti-platelet aggregation and reducing vascular tension. However, its effects on restenosis after vascular intervention caused by VSMCs proliferation and migration remain still unknown. Herein, we present novel data showing that JB treatment could significantly reduce the neointimal hyperplasia of balloon-damaged blood vessels in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. In cultured VSMCs, JB pretreatment significantly reduced cell dedifferentiation, proliferation, and migration induced by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). JB attenuated autophagy and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production stimulated by PDGF-BB. Besides, JB promoted the phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ). Notably, inhibition of AMPK and PPAR-γ partially reversed the ability of JB to resist the proliferation and migration of VSMCs. Taken as a whole, our findings reveal for the first time the anti-restenosis properties of JB in vivo and in vitro after the endovascular intervention. JB antagonizes PDGF-BB-induced phenotypic switch, proliferation, and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells partly through AMPK/PPAR-γ pathway. These results indicate that JB might be a promising clinical candidate drug against in-stent restenosis, which provides a reference for further research on the prevention and treatment of vascular-related diseases.

The anti-inflammatory potential of Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J.Presl essential oil in vitro and in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Borneol was widely used in traditional Chinese medicine formulas due to its pharmacological activities, e.g. sedative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ischemic properties. Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J.Presl essential oil (BEO) is a by-product of natural crystalline borneol (NCB) production obtained by steam distillation of Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J.Presl leaves, and borneol was the main component of BEO. This study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of BEO and its corresponding mechanisms through in vitro and in vivo studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Human erythrocyte membrane stability assay and the acute inflammation murine model (xylene-induced ear edema) were chosen to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of BEO. Expression of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The functional compounds in the BEO were identified by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The steady-state transdermal diffusion rates of BEO and BEO nano-emulsion with were also determined in this study. Cytotoxicity of BEO was analyzed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay.

RESULTS

The BEO showed a high human erythrocyte membrane stabilization by inhibiting heat-induced hemolysis (IC50 = 5.29 mg/mL) and hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis (IC50 = 0.26 mg/mL) in vitro. The BEO was topically applied to mice auricles, both single and repeated administration significantly reduced xylene-induced auricle swelling (p < 0.0001). Expression of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in serum and tissue was significantly downregulated (p < 0.05), so as to the mRNA expression of IL-1β (p＜0.05) and TNF-α (p < 0.001). A total of 43 components were identified and quantified by GC-MS. The most abundant was borneol [178.3 mg/mL, 20.9% (m/v)], followed by β-caryophyllene (116.3 mg/mL), camphor (115.2 mg/mL), and limonene (89.4 mg/mL). For determining the skin permeability of BEO, the steady-state transdermal diffusion rates of BEO and BEO nano-emulsion were determined to be 6.7 and 8.9 mg/cm2·h, respectively.

CONCLUSION

It is suspected that the anti-inflammatory effects in vivo and in vitro were derived from the above-mentioned components in the BEO. These findings will facilitate the development of BEO as a new and natural therapeutic agent for inflammatory skin conditions.

Bacterial growth and biological properties of Cymbopogon schoenanthus and Ziziphus lotus are modulated by extraction conditions

The present study aims to evaluate the antibacterial activity and biological properties of two traditional Saharian plants (Cymbopogon schoenanthus and Ziziphus lotus). The plant extracts were obtained by using a different combination of extraction methods (conventional vs. ultrasound-assisted) and solvents (water vs. ethanol:water (50:50, v/v)). The antioxidant profile, anti-inflammatory activity and impact on bacterial growth (foodborne and probiotic bacteria) of the obtained extracts were assessed. The plant species showed the hierarchically more important role in determining the biological properties of the extracts, followed by extraction solvent and extraction conditions. Conventional Z. lotus hydroethanolic extracts showed the highest total phenolic content (20.4 mg GAE/g), while Z. lotus ethanol extracts from ultrasound-assisted process presented the highest content of carotenoids (0.15 mg/g). In addition, ultrasound-assisted Z. lotus hydroethanolic extracts presented the highest in vitro radical scavenging activity, being 7.93 mmol Trolox/g. Multivariate analysis statistics (PCA) showed that both the extraction methodology and the solvent used strongly affected the bacterial growth. Z. lotus mainly decreased the growth rate of S. aureus and L. innocua. Interestingly, the aqueous extracts of this plant as well as those from C. schoenanthus, obtained by conventional extraction, significantly increased the growth rate and the maximal optical density of L. casei. Aqueous extracts of both Z. lotus and C. schoenanthus slightly influenced the growth of Bifidobacterium. Overall, the extracts of these plants showed selective activities with respect to pathogens and probiotic bacteria and may provide an advantage both in terms of antimicrobial and prebiotic activity.

Was Hawan Designed to Fight Anxiety-Scientific Evidences?

Anxiety is a psychiatric disorder with unknown neurobiology; however, neurotransmitters like gamma-amino butyric acid, norepinephrine and serotonin (5-HT) play crucial roles in mediating anxiety. Present drug modules pose dependence risk to the patient; hence, there is a great need to develop complementary therapies to fight this disorder. Aromatherapy has also been employed in ancient times for a number of mental disorders. Mahamrituanjay Mantra, Om triambkum yajamahe, sughandhim puushtivardhanam, urvarukmev vandhanaat, mrityu mokshay mamritaat!!!!, the part of veda enlightens that aroma gives rise to good health (sughandhim puushtivardhanam). Hawan is a religious practice recommended for mental peace. Hawan is a process in which special herbs are offered in the fire of medicinal woods ignited in a specially designed fire pit. Analysis of literature demonstrates that the components of Hawan are having a number of volatile oils that are specifically useful for prevention and treatment of anxiety through some mechanism of action. Due to high temperature of fire, the vapors of these oils from herbs enter into the central nervous system through nasal route. As per modern science and ancient texts on medicine, nasal drug delivery systems are the best for the diseases related to brain and head. The routine of performing Hawan might keep the threshold value of the therapeutic components in the body and help in preventing anxiety. In the present manuscript, authors highlight and integrate the modern and ancient concepts for treatment and prevention of anxiety through scientific evidences.

Phytochemical-rich foods inhibit the growth of pathogenic trichomonads

Background

Plants produce secondary metabolites that often possess widespread bioactivity, and are then known as phytochemicals. We previously determined that several phytochemical-rich food-derived preparations were active against pathogenic foodborne bacteria. Trichomonads produce disease (trichomoniasis) in humans and in certain animals. Trichomonads are increasingly becoming resistant to conventional modes of treatment. It is of interest to test bioactive, natural compounds for efficacy against these pathogens.

Methods

Using a cell assay, black tea, green tea, grape, pomegranate, and jujube extracts, as well as whole dried jujube were tested against three trichomonads: Trichomonas vaginalis strain G3 (found in humans), Tritrichomonas foetus strain D1 (found in cattle), and Tritrichomonas foetus-like organism strain C1 (found in cats). The most effective of the test substances was subsequently tested against two metronidazole-resistant Trichomonas vaginalis strains, and on normal mucosal flora.

Results

Black tea extract inhibited all the tested trichomonads, but was most effective against the T. vaginalis organisms. Inhibition by black tea was correlated with the total and individual theaflavin content of the two tea extracts determined by HPLC. Metronidazole-resistant Trichomonas vaginalis strains were also inhibited by the black tea extract. The response of the organisms to the remaining preparations was variable and unique. We observed no effect of the black tea extract on common normal flora bacteria.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the black tea, and to a lesser degree green tea, grape seed, and pomegranate extracts might present possible natural alternative therapeutic agents to treat Trichomonas vaginalis infections in humans and the related trichomonad infections in animals, without negatively affecting the normal flora.

Chromatographic Isolation and Spectroscopic Identification of Phytoconstituents of Jujuba Seeds (Zizyphus jujuba Mill.)

BACKGROUND

The seeds of Zizyphus jujuba Mill. (Rhamnaceae) are astringent, aphrodisiac, tonic; used to cure cough, asthma, vomiting, burning sensation, biliousness, leucorrhoea, and eye infections in traditional systems of medicine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The methanol extract of seeds of Z. jujuba was partitioned into petroleum ether and water soluble fractions. Isolation of compounds was performed by silica gel column chromatography. The structures of isolated compounds were established on the basis of spectral studies and chemical reactions.

RESULTS

Chromatographic separation of methanolic extract of seeds yielded three new phyto-constituents characterized as 3, 5, 7-trimethoxy-8, 3', 4', 5'-tetrahydroxy flavone-6-oxy hexahydrobisabolene ether (4), 1, 9-dihydroxy tetrahydrogeranyl-8-oxy-O-β-D-glucuronopyranoside (5) and terahydrogeranyl-8-oxy-O-β-D-glucuronopyranosyl (2a→1b)-O-β-D-glucofuranosyl (2b→1c)-O-β-D-glucofuranosyl (2c→1d)-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl (2d→1e)-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl (2c→f)-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-2f-benzoate (6) along with five known compounds, palmitoyl palmitoleoyl arachidoyl glyceride (1), tetratriacontenoic acid (2), palmitoyl oleoyl linolenoyl glyceride (3), hexanyl tetraglucoside (7) and pentasaccharide (8).

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of saturated monoterpene and sesquiterpene derivatives from jujuba seeds.

Extraction Optimization and Antioxidant Properties of African Eggplant (Solanum macrocarpon) Leaf Polyphenols

Optimization of the yield, total phenolic content (TPC), and total antioxidant activities (TAA) of polyphenol concentrates extracted from Solanum macrocarpon leaves was studied using response surface methodology. The process variables investigated included extraction temperature (30, 50, and 70°C), extraction time (2, 4, and 6 h), and dried leaf powder : water ratio (1 : 10, 1 : 20, and 1 : 30 w/v). Box–Behnken design resulted in 15 experimental runs. The results showed the following optimum extraction conditions: temperature, 49.05°C; extraction time, 243 min; leaf powder : water ratio, 1 : 22 w/v. The optimized extraction conditions gave polyphenol concentrate yield, TPC, and TAA values of 24.94%, 421.09 mg GAE/g, and 23.81 mg AAE/g, respectively. Results of the in vitro antioxidant activities of the polyphenol concentrate showed 2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl hydrate, metal chelating ability, and ferric reducing ability values of 76.78%, 80.22%, and 56.46 mg AAE/g, respectively. The study concludes that the experimental values compared closely with the predicted values, which indicates suitability of the model employed for polyphenol extraction optimization from dried S. macrocarpon leaves.

Organogel-nanoemulsion containing nisin and D-limonene and its antimicrobial activity

The aim of this study was to investigate a novel delivery system containing D-limonene and nisin by food organogel-nanoemulsion and study its effect on the antimicrobial activity. Organogel-nanoemulsion containing with D-limonene and nisin or without nisin was prepared by a homogenization method. Factors that may affect the droplet size and stability of organogel-nanoemulsion such as pressure and surfactant to oil ratio (SOR) were studied. The average droplet size decreased with pressure, and the organogel-nanoemulsion could achieve good stability at low SOR. Positive effects and outstanding antimicrobial activities of organogel-nanoemulsion containing with D-limonene and nisin were confirmed by minimal inhibitory concentrations comparison, growth curves of bacteria, scanning electron microscopy and determination of cell constituents’ release. Furthermore, the organogel-nanoemulsion applied as food preservative in milk also shown excellent antimicrobial performance. Overall, the research described in the current article show that organogel-nanoemulsion containing with D-limonene and nisin may be an effective antimicrobial system for the production and preservation of food.

Extraction optimization and nanoencapsulation of jujube pulp and seed for enhancing antioxidant activity

The aim of this study was to optimize extraction conditions for jujube pulp and seed in order to obtain maximum active ingredient yield and antioxidant activity, as well as to prepare chitosan nanoparticles loaded with jujube pulp and seed extracts for enhancing stability. The extraction conditions, i.e. temperature, time, and ethanol concentration, were optimized at the following respective values: 61.2 °C, 38 h, and 60.4% for pulp, and 58 °C, 34 h, and 59.2% for seed. The jujube nanoparticle size significantly increased with a higher chitosan/sodium tripolyphosphate ratio and extract concentration. Entrapment efficiency was greater than 80% regardless of preparation conditions. The stabilities of jujube pulp and seed extract in terms of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were effectively enhanced by nanoencapsulation. In conclusion, jujube pulp and seed extracts prepared using optimal conditions could be useful as a natural functional food ingredient with antioxidant activity, and nanoencapsulation can be used to improve the stability of jujube extract. Therefore, these results could be used to promote the utilization of not only jujube pulp but also seed, by product.

Antitumor activity of jujuboside B and the underlying mechanism via induction of apoptosis and autophagy

Jujuboside B (1) is one of the saponins isolated from the seeds of Zizyphus jujuba var. spinosa, which are used as a well-known traditional medicine for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety in East Asian countries. This is the first study to investigate the antitumor mechanism of 1 in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that 1 induced apoptosis and autophagy in AGS and HCT 116 human cancer cells and also effectively suppressed tumor growth in a nude mouse xenograft model bearing HCT 116 cells. The apoptosis-inducing effect of 1 was characterized by annexin V/propidium iodide staining, sub-G1 phase increase, and caspase-3 activation. Mechanistic studies showed that 1-induced apoptosis is associated with the extrinsic pathway through an increase in FasL and caspase-8 activation. Moreover, 1 activated p38/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and the extrinsic pathway-mediated apoptosis was attenuated by both SB202190 (a p38 inhibitor) and SP600125 (a JNK inhibitor). The autophagy-inducing effect was indicated by the formation of cytoplasmic vacuoles and microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain-3 II (LC3-II) conversion. The autophagy inhibitor bafilomycin A1 (BaF) decreased 1-induced cell viability and increased pp38, pJNK, FasL, caspase-8 activation, and caspase-3 activation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that 1 induced protective autophagy to retard extrinsic pathway-mediated apoptosis.

Zizyphus jujuba protects against ibuprofen-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

CONTEXT

Zizyphus jujuba Mill. (Rhamnaceae) has long been used for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia in Chinese traditional medicine. The edible part is the fruit. Different parts of Z. jujuba possess medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antifertility.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the therapeutic effect of Z. jujuba fruit aqueous extract (ZE) on nephrotoxicity induced by ibuprofen (IBP) in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were grouped as normal saline (control), ZE (500 mg/kg), IBP (400 mg/kg) and ZE + IBP-treated groups. After five days of oral administration, rats were sacrificed. The protective effect of ZE was evaluated by measuring kidney biomarkers, and histopathological changes of kidney were observed. Kidney antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and lipid peroxidase were investigated.

RESULTS

Administration of IBP resulted in a significant increase in urea and creatinine (p < 0.05) and a significant decrease in albumin and total protein (p < 0.05). Damage in glomeruli and proximal convoluted tubules was observed. IBP also increased CAT (p < 0.05) and GST (p < 0.001) activities compared to the control group. Administration of ZE with IBP significantly decreased serum urea and creatinine (p < 0.05) and reduced the severity of kidney damage. There was also a significant increase in the activities of CAT (p < 0.05) and GST (p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

These results indicated that Z. jujuba aqueous extract could have a therapeutic role in reducing nephrotoxicity induced by ibuprofen.

Evaluation of in vitro antioxidant and in vivo analgesic potential of Terminalia paniculata aqueous bark extract

The Terminalia genus includes plants that are used in a variety of food, nutritional products, and traditional medicines. Aqueous bark extract of Terminalia paniculata (TPW) was screened for its antioxidant and analgesic potential. The major polyphenols were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography. In vitro antioxidant potential of TPW was investigated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS(2-)) radical assay, nitric oxide (NO) scavenging, superoxide scavenging (O(2-)), Fe(2+) chelating (O-phenanthroline), and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. We evaluated the effects of TPW on cell viability, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitrite, and cytokines (interleukin [IL] 6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α]) in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. Evaluation of analgesic activity of TPW was performed using acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate test in mice. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of four polyphenols, namely, gallic acid, ellagic acid, rutin, and quercetin. TPW showed maximum superoxide, ABTS(2-), NO, DPPH inhibition, and Fe(2+-)chelating property at 400 μg/mL, respectively. FRAP value was 4.5±0.25 μg Fe(II)/g. TPW, per se, did not affect RAW 264.7 cell viability. In LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells, TPW attenuated the elevation in ROS, nitrite, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. TPW (100-400 mg/kg, orally) significantly reduced the number of writhes in a dose-dependent manner compared with the control. Similarly, TPW (400 mg/kg, orally) evoked a significant increase in the maximum percentage effect in the hot plate test. The study suggests the efficacy of aqueous bark extract of T. paniculata as a potential antioxidant and analgesic agent.

Interaction profile of Zizyphus jujuba with phenytoin, phenobarbitone, and carbamazepine in maximal electroshock-induced seizures in rats

The antiepileptic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Zizyphus jujuba (HEZJ) in experimental seizures was demonstrated earlier. The present study aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions of HEZJ with phenytoin (PHT), phenobarbitone (PB), and carbamazepine (CBZ) in maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizures in male Wistar rats. Maximal electroshock (70 mA, 9 ms pulse width, 0.2 s) was used to induce seizures. Blood samples were collected at two time points for estimation of serum PHT, PB, and CBZ levels using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Co-administration of HEZJ with the sub-therapeutic doses of PHT, PB, and CBZ exhibited 66.7, 66.7, and 50.0% protection against tonic hind limb extension as compared to 33.3, 33.3, and 50% protection respectively, in the groups treated with PHT, PB, and CBZ alone in their sub-therapeutic doses. Co-administration of HEZJ with the sub-therapeutic doses of these antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) showed significant improvement in cognitive functions as compared to MES group as well as these AEDs alone. A significant increase in glutathione levels and decrease in malondialdehyde levels were observed with pretreatment of HEZJ with the sub-therapeutic doses of these AEDs. Co-administration of HEZJ with PHT, PB, and CBZ did not cause any significant changes in the serum concentrations of these AEDs. The results of the present study indicate that the co-administration of HEZJ with sub-therapeutic doses of PHT and PB potentiated the antiepileptic effect of PHT and PB in MES-induced seizures with no change found in the antiepileptic effect of CBZ.

Zizyphus jujuba and its active component jujuboside B inhibit platelet aggregation

The seeds of Zizyphus jujuba (SZJ), a famous oriental traditional medicine, have been reported to exhibit diverse activities in biological systems including the cardiovascular system. However, little information is available on its antiplatelet activity. This study was undertaken to investigate the antiplatelet effects of the ethanolic extract of SZJ (ESZJ) and of its principal components jujuboside A and B. In the in vitro platelet aggregation study, ESZJ exhibited significant and concentration-dependent inhibitory effects on collagen-, thrombin-, and AA-induced platelet aggregation. In addition, ESZJ-treated mice showed significantly the prolongation of bleeding times and the protection against thromboembolic attack. A comparison of the effects of jujuboside A and B on platelet aggregation revealed that only jujuboside B had potent inhibitory effects on collagen-, thrombin-, AA-, and ADP-induced aggregation. Jujuboside B also exhibited superior protection on thromboembolic model. Furthermore, jujuboside B had a significant inhibitory effect on collagen-induced thromboxane A2 production in rat platelets. This study describes the antiplatelet effects of ESZJ and of its active component jujuboside B, and its findings suggest that these agents be considered as components of preventive and therapeutic herbal drugs targeting cardiovascular diseases associated with platelet hyperaggregation.

Morphological and organoleptic nature of Ziziphus jujuba Mill

Aim of the experiment was to determine morphological and sensory differences between selected Ziziphus jujube Mill. genotypes. For experimental study were used 19 seed  grown  genotypes planted in experimental garden of the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra. In our laboratories were analysed quantitative and qualitative traits of matured fruits. In the collection of genotypes were identified by morphological analysis the average weight in range from 4.68 to 0.66 grams,  length of 21.67 to 0.77 mm, and width of 16.97 to 0.67 mm. Mass weight ratio of fresh pulp to total fruit were determined in the range 57-79%. In the group of selected genotypes were identified significant differences in the pulp and pericarp pigmentation. With stones was determined the average weight in the range 0.90-0.24 g, length from 14.35-0.58 mm and width 8.32-0.34 mm. Significant differences has ben found in stones shape and color of analyzed genotypes as well. For the evaluation of sensory analysis was applied the 9 point scale. By sensory analysis were evaluated the dried fruit pulp samples of five genotypes (A, B, C, D, E) and 8 genotypes (AV, BV, CV,DV, EV, PV , GV, HV) samples of dried flesh for  60 minutes boiled in water and then extracted. Among the samples were identified significant differences in taste too. Gained experience and results can be used for expansion of jujube specific genotypes  in Slovakia with primary orientation on organic agriculture and/or for other applications in practice as well.

Natural surfactants and their use in food industry

Microorganisms produce wide range of surfactants, generally called biosurfactants. These compounds are mainly divided according to their molecular weight, physico - chemical properties and mode of action. Saponins, plant surfactants, have properties of  soap and they are high foaming and therefore are used in cosmetic (shampoos, liquid soaps et cetera) and food industry (sweeteners, food additives into the effervescents et cetera). Most of them are spread in plants of agriculture importance and some of them are basic segments in human food. They often occur in plants (in more then 100 species). Saponins can be find in vegetables as a soya, a bean, a lentil, a spinach, a tomato, a potato, a garlic, a onion. Today biosurfactants are mainly used in bioremediation but they can be utilized in many sectors of food industry. We have paid attention to some microbial and plant surfactants and their prospects of exploitation in this industry.

Induction of systemic resistance in rice by leaf extracts of Zizyphus jujuba and Ipomoea carnea against Rhizoctonia solani

Plants accumulate a great diversity of natural products, many of which confer protective effects against phytopathogenic attack. Earlier we had demonstrated that the leaf extracts of Zizyphus jujuba and Ipomoea carnea inhibit the in vitro mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani, and effectively reduce the incidence of sheath blight disease in rice. Here we demonstrate that foliar application of the aqueous leaf extracts of Z. jujuba and I. carnea followed by challenge inoculation with R. solani induces systemic resistance in rice as evident from significantly increased accumulation of pathogenesis-related proteins such as chitinase, β-1,3-glucanase and peroxidase, as well as defense-related compounds such as phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and phenolic substances. Thin layer chromatographic separation of secondary metabolites revealed presence of alkaloid and terpenoid compounds in the leaf extracts of Z. jujuba that exhibited toxicity against R. solani under in vitro condition. Thus, the enhanced sheath blight resistance in rice seedlings treated with leaf extracts of Z. jujuba or I. carnea can be attributed to the direct inhibitory effects of these leaf extracts as well as their ability to elicit systemic resistance against R. solani.

Stereochemistry and NMR Data Assignment of Cyclopeptide Alkaloids from Zizyphus Oxyphylla

The structures of (3 S,7 R,13 S)-6-[2-(dimethylamino)-3-phenylpropanoyl]-19-methoxy-2-oxa-6,9,15-triazatetracyclo[16.3.1.03,7. 09,13]docosa-1-(22),16,18,20-tetraene-8,14-dione (1), nummularin-C (2) and nummularin-R (3) have been previously determined mainly based on mass spectrometric data. Stereochemistry and complete 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopic data assignments of these compounds are now described. Compounds 1 and 2 are reported for the first time from

Chemical composition of essential oils in Zataria multiflora Boiss. from different parts of Iran and their radical scavenging and antimicrobial activity

The objective of the study was to characterize the chemical constituents, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of five ecotypes of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil with respect to main phytogeographic grown towns in Iran. Our investigation showed that the plants had essential oil yield ranging from 1.59+/-0.86% to 0.99+/-0.29% v/w. There were qualitative similarities among the oils from different origins, whereas the amounts of some components were varied. From different samples, 34, 34, 32, 29 and 53 various compounds were identified, representing 98.32%, 97.77%, 99.5%, 98.38% and 96.54% of total oils, respectively. The highest oxygenated monoterpens value in this study stood at 72.99%. Moreover, thymol, a phenolic compound of oxygenated monoterpens, was the most abundant component in GC/MS ranging from 27.05% to 64.87%. In the DPPH antioxidant assay, all samples exhibited a remarkable activity with a higher degree of IC(50)=19.7+/-0.7 microg/ml almost similar to BHT (18.1+/-0.4 microg/ml). Escherichia coli O157:H7 was the most resistant and Candida tropicalis was the most vulnerable organisms with MICs of 16 and 0.062 mg/ml, respectively. In conclusion, it seemed that geographical variation might have influenced the oil compounds either quantitatively or qualitatively.

Hair growth promoting effect of Zizyphus jujuba essential oil

This study was undertaken to examine the efficacy of essential oil from seeds of Zizyphus jujuba for its potential role on hair growth by in vivo method. Essential oil was applied at different concentrations (0.1%, 1% and 10%) over the shaved skin onto the backs of BALB/c mice and monitored for 21 days. After 21 days, mice treated with 1% and 10% of oil produced a greater effect on the length of hair which were measured to be 9.96 and 10.02 mm, respectively, as compared to the control (8.94 mm). We measured the weight of hair/cm(2) area of dorsal skin and also evaluated hair thickness and hair follicles microscopically after plucking the hair immediately from the shaved area of mice and found the best results for 1% of essential oil-treated mice. From this study, it is concluded that Z. jujuba essential oil possesses hair growth promoting activity.