Evaluation of antibacterial properties of some medicinal plants used in Iran

Genotype-specific responses to in vitro drought stress in myrtle (Myrtus communis L.): integrating machine learning techniques

Background

Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.), native to the Mediterranean region of Türkiye, is a valuable plant with applications in traditional medicine, pharmaceuticals, and culinary practices. Understanding how myrtle responds to water stress is essential for sustainable cultivation as climate change exacerbates drought conditions.

Methods

This study investigated the performance of selected myrtle genotypes under in vitro drought stress by employing tissue culture techniques, rooting trials, and acclimatization processes. Genotypes were tested under varying polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentrations (1%, 2%, 4%, and 6%). Machine learning (ML) algorithms, including Gaussian process (GP), support vector machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), were utilized to model and predict micropropagation and rooting efficiency.

Results

The research revealed a genotype-dependent response to drought stress. Black-fruited genotypes exhibited higher micropropagation rates compared to white-fruited ones under stress conditions. The application of ML models successfully predicted micropropagation and rooting efficiency, providing insights into genotype performance.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that selecting drought-tolerant genotypes is crucial for enhancing myrtle cultivation. The results underscore the importance of genotype selection and optimization of cultivation practices to address climate change impacts. Future research should explore the molecular mechanisms of stress responses to refine breeding strategies and improve resilience in myrtle and similar economically important crops.

Extraction Effects on Roselle Functionalities: Antioxidant, Antiglycation, and Antibacterial Capacities

This study investigated the effects of certain roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa Linnaeus) extraction methods on various functional properties, including the antioxidant and antiglycation capacities and bacterial growth inhibition. Roselle anthocyanins were extracted using water and ethanol solvents at different temperatures and concentrations. The results revealed that the extraction rate increased with higher temperatures and ethanol concentrations (p < 0.05). Ethanol extracts exhibited higher total organic acid and total anthocyanin contents compared to water extracts, while water extracts showed higher total saccharide, total polyphenol, and total flavonoid contents (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the water extracts demonstrated superior Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values, while the ethanol extracts exhibited better 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability, antiglycation capacity, and bacterial growth inhibition. A Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong associations between specific components and functional properties, such as a positive correlation between the total anthocyanin content and antiglycation capacity (R2 = 0.9862). A principal component analysis and agglomerative hierarchical clustering highlighted distinct clusters of water and ethanol extracts, indicating solvent-dependent variations in functional properties. This study assessed roselle extraction models for antioxidant, antiglycation, and antibacterial activities, which could be used for the development of functional alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

Correlation between Antimicrobial Activity Values and Total Phenolic Content/Antioxidant Activity in Rubus idaeus L

Plant by-products, which are discarded into the environment, are rich in valuable compounds. The aim of this research was to determine the antibacterial activity of Rubus idaeus L. morphological parts and its correlation with total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. The authors also aimed to evaluate the plant's potential as added-value products. New aspects were revealed for further use and for making novel and natural products. The study's results indicated that raspberry leaves, inflorescences, and fruits could effectively combat three Gram-positive bacteria. According to the findings, among the various plant parts, root and seed extracts had the lowest antibacterial activity. Data revealed moderate, weak, or very weak correlation between the antimicrobial activity and phenolic content parameters. These findings underscore the viability of substituting synthetic antimicrobials with natural alternatives. The present study is significant for preparing novel products as antibacterials by appropriate and optimized processing using all raspberry morphological parts, and the research results show promising prospects for future purposeful utilisation of nature-based products. Raspberry plant parts can find applications in emerging fields that generate economic and environmental value.

Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activity of Malva sylvestris L: A Detailed Insight

Malva sylvestris L., is commonly referred to as Mallow and is found in Europe, Asia and Africa. This has been traditionally used for inflammation, gastrointestinal disturbances, skin disorders, menstrual pains, and urological disorders. This review covers phytoconstituents and Pharmacological activities of M. sylvestris. The plant contains a large number of phytochemical constituents having diverse pharmacological activities. The plant contains many phenolic compounds responsible for its strong antioxidant activity. Coumarins from Mallow have a potential anticancer activity. Malva sylvestris also contains essential as well as non-essential elements and minerals. Many researchers have provided evidence that Malva sylvestris is a good candidate for use as a medicinal herb and has good nutritional value. The leaves, in particular, offer properties like anticancer, skin whitening, and anti-aging. Furthermore, the aqueous extract was recently shown to have an anti-ulcerogenic effect. Malva sylvestris has a high potential for use in cosmetics such as skin whitening and anti-aging treatments. Methanolic extracts of Malva sylvestris leaves, and flowers showed strong antibacterial activity against a common plant pathogen bacterium. The plant also contains Malvone A, which is responsible for antibacterial action. The plant also possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, wound healing properties and various other activities.

The phytochemical profiling, pharmacological activities, and safety of malva sylvestris: a review

Malva sylvestris is a plant commonly found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The leaves and flowers of this plant have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as cough, cold, diarrhoea, and constipation. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical profiling and pharmacologic activities of Malva sylvestris. The techniques used in phytochemical profiling and the pharmacologic activity of each compound were extracted from the included studies, including in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. The phytochemical analysis of Malva sylvestris revealed that the leaves and flowers are the most commonly used parts of the plant and contain various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, mucilages, terpenoids, phenol derivatives, coumarins, sterols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. These phytochemicals are responsible for the many pharmacological activities of Malva sylvestris, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, laxative, antiproliferative and antioxidant properties. This review has presented an overview of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities and the cytotoxic effects of Malva sylvestris on different types of cancer cells. It has also summarised the work on developing copper oxide nanoparticles using Malva sylvestris leaf extract and its potential use in food and medicine. This review aims to highlight the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and safety of Malva sylvestris.

Stellaria media Linn.: A comprehensive review highlights the nutritional, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities

Stellaria media Linn., a member of the family Caryophyllaceae, is generally known by the name of Chickweed. This plant is extensively cultivated globally and is inherent to Africa, Asia, China, Europe, and North America. It is a well-known medicinal plant with immense therapeutic uses. Nutritional studies have revealed the presence of protein, especially 16 amino acids, vitamins, and minerals such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc. Phytochemicals, mainly flavonoids, isoflavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, phenolic acids, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, and anthraquinone are present in chickweed. It has multiple therapeutic potentials like anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-leishmanial, anti-anxiety, and toxicity profiles. The crude extracts and their metabolites did not show any toxicity in the experimental animal. This review summarizes the nutritional, phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicity studies on this plant concerning its future use in pharmacological drugs.

Antimicrobial activities and phytochemical analysis of Harrisonia abyssinica (Oliv) and Vepris simplicifolia (Verd) extracts used as traditional medicine in Tanzania

The present study aimed to determine in vitro antimicrobial activities and phytochemical analysis of Harrisonia abyssinica and Vepris simplifolia which are commonly used as traditional medicine in Tanzania. Sensitivity of bacterial and fungal species against plants extracts were determined using serial microdilution method. In this method, the lowest inhibitory concentration which prevented microbial growth considered as minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The study also evaluated phytochemical compounds present in the leaf, stem and root barks of H. abyssinica. It was revealed that eight extracts from H. abyssinica inhibited growth of three bacteria namely Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium and Streptococcus uberis at MIC value less than 1 mg/mL. It was further revealed that, three extracts from V. simplifolia exhibited high antibacterial and antifungal activity. The preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed presence of various phytochemicals namely alkaloids, terpenoid, flavonoid, tannin and saponin. It was concluded that presence of large number of phytochemicals in the plant extracts may be associated with pharmacological properties of H. abyssinica and V. simplifolia and therefore this study provide alternative to synthetic antimicrobial agents.

Evaluation of In Vitro Wound-Healing Potential, Antioxidant Capacity, and Antimicrobial Activity of Stellaria media (L.) Vill

The healing of skin wounds remains an important concern in medicine, especially in chronic wounds caused by various diseases such as diabetes. Using herbs or herbal products to heal skin wounds is a therapeutic challenge for traditional medicine. In this context, the main aim of our work was to highlight the in vitro healing potential of Stellaria media (L.) Vill. (SM) extract using the scratch assay on normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF). The ability to stimulate cell migration and proliferation under the influence of different concentrations of SM extract (range between 12.5 and 200 µg/mL) was determined compared to the control (untreated in vitro-simulated wound) and positive control (allantoin 50 µg/mL). Our results showed that the concentration of 100 µg/mL SM extract applied on the simulated wound recorded the strongest and fastest (24 h) migration (with wound closure) and proliferation of NHDF compared with the control. In addition, the SM extract was characterized in terms of bioactive compounds (total phenols and flavonoids content), antioxidant capacity (FRAP (The Ferric-Reducing Antioxidant Power) assay and electrochemical method), and antimicrobial activity. The results show that the SM extract contains a considerable amount of polyphenols (17.19 ± 1.32 mg GAE/g dw and 7.28 ± 1.18 mg QE/g dw for total phenol and flavonoid content, respectively) with antioxidant capacity. Antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) is higher than E. coli at a dose of 15 µg/mL. This study showed that Stellaria media is a source of polyphenols compounds with antioxidant capacity, and for the first time, its wound healing potential was emphasized.

Environmentally Safe Biosynthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Plant Water Extracts

Due to their simplicity of synthesis, stability, and functionalization, low toxicity, and ease of detection, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are a natural choice for biomedical applications. AuNPs’ unique optoelectronic features have subsequently been investigated and used in high-tech applications such as organic photovoltaics, sensory probes, therapeutic agents, the administration of drugs in biological and medical applications, electronic devices, catalysis, etc. Researchers have demonstrated the biosynthesis of AuNPs using plants. The present study evaluates 109 plant species used in the traditional medicine of Middle East countries as new sources of AuNPs in a wide variety of laboratory environments. In this study, dried samples of bark, bulb, flower, fruit, gum, leaf, petiole, rhizome, root, seed, stamen, and above-ground parts were evaluated in water extracts. About 117 plant parts were screened from 109 species in 54 plant families, with 102 extracts demonstrating a bioreduction of Au³⁺ to Au⁰, revealing 37 new plant species in this regard. The color change of biosynthesized AuNPs to gray, violet, or red was confirmed by UV-Visible spectroscopy, TEM, FSEM, DLS, and EDAX of six plants. In this study, AuNPs of various sizes were measured from 27 to 107 nm. This study also includes an evaluation of the potency of traditional East Asian medicinal plants used in this biosynthesis of AuNPs. An environmentally safe procedure such as this could act as a foundation for cosmetic industries whose quality assessment systems give a high priority to non-chemically synthesized products. It is crucial that future optimizations are adequately documented to scale up the described process.

The Effect of Selected Herbal Extracts on Lactic Acid Bacteria Activity

This study aimed to investigate the effect of plant extracts (valerian Valeriana officinalis L., sage Salvia officinalis L., chamomile Matricaria chamomilla L., cistus Cistus L., linden blossom Tilia L., ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata L., marshmallow Althaea L.) on the activity and growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) during the fermentation and passage of milk through a digestive system model. The tested extracts were also characterized in terms of their content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. It was observed that the addition of the tested herbal extracts did not inhibit the growth of LAB in fermented milk drinks, such as yogurts. However, they can gradually inhibit fermentation when added at concentrations above 2% by weight, and hence should be used in limited amounts. The microflora of yogurts containing the tested herbal extracts did not die during digestion in model digestive juices, and no stimulating effect of the added plant extracts was noted either. Nevertheless, due to the antioxidant properties, a slight addition of the herbal extracts containing polyphenols to different kinds of food products can increase the nutritional quality, thus making them functional foods.

Rose Flowers-A Delicate Perfume or a Natural Healer?

Plants from the Rosacea family are rich in natural molecules with beneficial biological properties, and they are widely appreciated and used in the food industry, perfumery, and cosmetics. In this review, we are considering Rosa damascena Mill., Rosa alba L., Rosa centifolia L., and Rosa gallica L. as raw materials important for producing commercial products, analyzing and comparing the main biological activities of their essential oils, hydrolates, and extracts. A literature search was performed to find materials describing (i) botanical characteristics; (ii) the phytochemical profile; and (iii) biological properties of the essential oil sand extracts of these so called “old roses” that are cultivated in Bulgaria, Turkey, India, and the Middle East. The information used is from databases PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Roses have beneficial healing properties due to their richness of beneficial components, the secondary metabolites as flavonoids (e.g., flavones, flavonols, anthocyanins), fragrant components (essential oils, e.g., monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes), and hydrolysable and condensed tannins. Rose essential oils and extracts with their therapeutic properties—as respiratory antiseptics, anti-inflammatories, mucolytics, expectorants, decongestants, and antioxidants—are able to act as symptomatic prophylactics and drugs, and in this way alleviate dramatic sufferings during severe diseases.

Synthesis of biological based hennotannic acid-based salts over porous bismuth coordination polymer with phosphorous acid tags

In this paper, a novel porous polymer capable of coordinating to bismuth (PCPs-Bi) was synthesized. The Bi-PCPs was then reacted with phosphorous acid to produce a novel polymer PCPs(Bi)N(CH2PO3H2)2 which is shown to act as an efficient and recyclable catalyst. The mentioned catalyst was applied for the efficient synthesis of new mono and bis naphthoquinone-based salts of piperidine and/or piperazine via the reaction of hennotannic acid with various aldehydes, piperidine and/or piperazine, respectively. The structure of the resulting mono and bis substituted piperazine or piperidine-based naphthoquinone salts was thoroughly characterized spectroscopically. The electrochemical behavior of the products was also investigated. The presented protocol has the advantages of excellent yields (82-95%), short reaction times (4-30 min) and simple work-up.

Anti-Trichomonas vaginalis Effect of Methanolic Extracts of Sambucus nigra in Comparison with Metronidazole

Background: Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted disease caused by a flagellated protozoan living in the genitourinary tract, which infects both men and women. Metronidazole is the treatment of choice for trichomoniasis. Researchers are seeking an alternative to metronidazole because of its inevitable side effects and toxicity. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the methanolic extract of Sambucus nigra against Trichomonas vaginalis in vitro. Methods: Plants were collected from different areas of Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Fruits were separated, shade-dried, milled, and their methanolic extract was prepared in concentrations of 100, 200, 400, and 800 µg/mL. Parasites were obtained from patients referring to different health centers of Mazandaran province, cultured in Dorset medium, and incubated at 37°C. The effects were evaluated and compared to a control group. The data were analyzed by SPSS 18 using the ANOVA test. Results: The exposure time and concentration of the extracts had a direct effect on anti-parasitic activity so that increasing extract concentration and incubation time heightened the anti-trichomoniasis effects. The concentrations of 400 and 800 µg/ml of the plant had 100% efficacy after 72 and 48 hours, respectively. Conclusions: It can be concluded from our results that the methanolic extract of S. nigra has a remarkable ability to destroy T. vaginalis and it can be considered an effective drug against T. vaginalis with further studies in human and animal models.

Synthesis, characterization and application of novel 1, 3-bis[(furan-2-l)methylene]thiourea functional dye on wool and cotton fabrics

Novel 1,3-bis[(furan-2-yl) methylene]thiourea (BFMT) dye was synthesized from condensation reaction between sugarcane bagasse derived furfural and thiourea. The synthesized BFMT dye was characterized by physicochemical (melting point and CHN) and spectrometry (UV–Vis, FTIR, ¹H-NMR and ¹³C-NMR) analyses. The synthesized BFMT dye was screened for its antimicrobial (antibiotic and antifungal) properties. BFMT dye was applied on wool and cotton fabrics. The functional properties of BFMT dyed fabrics (color value, color strength, fastness properties, antimicrobial activities, ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), and mechanical properties) were assessed. Chemical composition of synthesized BFMT dye was determined by CHN analyzer, while its structure was confirmed by FTIR and NMR spectrometry analyses. BFMT dye solution showed reddish brown complementary color with λ_max 485 nm on UV–Visible spectrophotometer. The antibiotic property of the synthesized dye was moderate, while antifungal property was excellent on tested microorganisms. BFMT dyed wool and cotton fabrics displayed good mechanical properties, air permeability, water vapor permeability and wetability. Dyed fabrics possessed excellent exhaustion (> 80%), fastness properties, ultraviolet protection factor (UPF > 40) and fungal growth inhibition rate (> 70%).

Iranian Medicinal Plants: From Ethnomedicine to Actual Studies

Iran has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, consisting of a complex traditional medicine deeply rooted in the history of the territory that goes back to the Assyrian and Babylonian civilizations. The ethnomedical practices that can be identifiable nowadays derive from the experience of local people who have developed remedies against a wide range of diseases handing down the knowledge from generation to generation over the millennia. Traditional medicine practices represent an important source of inspiration in the process of the development of new drugs and therapeutic strategies. In this context, it is useful to determine the state of the art of ethnomedical studies, concerning the Iranian territory, and of scientific studies on plants used in traditional Iranian medicine. Data regarding 245 plants used in Iranian ethnomedical practices and scientific studies conducted on 89 plants collected in the Iranian territory have been reported. All of the scientific studies here reported draw inspiration from traditional medicine. The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly called for an intensification of the scientific validation processes of traditional medicines intended as an important contribution to public health in various parts of the world. The process of study and validation of Iranian ethnomedical practices appears to be at an early stage.

Preliminary Antimicrobial Profile of Solanum incanum L.: A Common Medicinal Plant

Medicinal plants and plant remedies have been in use in Ethiopia for centuries. Studies on ethnobotany, ethnomedicine, and ethnoveterinary estimate that nearly 80% of Ethiopians use some type of medicinal plants and plant remedies. Medicinal plants are regarded as the most important and sometimes the only source of therapeutics in the country. Some 800 plant species are used as sources of medicine to treat about 300 physical and mental disorders. However, because these plant species are not adequately studied, there is a big limitation in their documentation, profiling, and management. Moreover, there is a continuous loss of knowledge about medicinal plants because the communities and people are adopting new lifestyles. Hence, this article reports the finding of a study aimed at providing the gross phytochemical characteristics and antimicrobial activities of ethanol and aqueous extracts of fruit, leaf, and stem of Solanum incanum L. against two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) and two Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria for developing gross antimicrobial profile of the plant. Phytochemical screening of fruit, leaf, and stem extracts of S. incanum has shown that it is the source of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenoids, and steroids. According to agar disc-diffusion tests, 100 mg/mL extracts of the plant produced bacterial growth inhibition zones of 0.00 to 16.06 mm. Ethanol and aqueous leaf extracts produced inhibition zones ranging from 11.34 to 16.06 mm against all bacterial species. The greatest inhibition zone of 16.06 mm was recorded in E. coli subjected to ethanol leaf extract. The same extract resulted in a growth inhibition zone of 16.04 mm in S. aureus. The greatest growth inhibition zones in B. subtilis (13.34 mm) and S. typhi (11.56 mm) were observed with ethanol leaf and fruit extracts, respectively. Aqueous leaf extracts produced growth inhibition zones ranging from 10.45 mm (for S. typhi) to 14.02 mm (for E. coli). Ethanol leaf extracts resulted in the lowest Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) of 1.56 mg/mL in E. coli and S. aureus. Therefore, fruits, leaves, and stems of S. incanum can be regarded as good sources of some bioactive compounds. The findings are important for taking measures for conservation and sustainable use of the plant as well as for further elucidation of its phytochemistry and antimicrobial efficacy of its constituents.

The genus Cuscuta (Convolvolaceac): An updated review on indigenous uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology

Cuscuta, commonly known as dodder, is a genus of family convolvolaceace. Approximately 170 species of Cuscuta are extensively distributed in temperate and subtropical areas of the world. Species of this genus are widely used as essential constituents in functional foods and traditional medicinal systems. Various parts of many members of Cuscuta have been found efficacious against a variety of diseases. Phytochemical investigations have confirmed presence of biologically active moieties such as flavonoids, alkaloids, lignans, saponines, phenolics, tannins, and fatty acids. Pharmacological studies and traditional uses of these plants have proved that they are effective antibacterial, antioxidant, antiostioporotic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antipyretic, antihypertensive, analgesic, anti hair fall, and antisteriogenic agents.

Lawsonia Inermis Markedly Improves Cognitive Functions in Animal Models and Modulate Oxidative Stress Markers in the Brain

Background and Objective: Medicinal plants represent an important source of alternative medicine for the management of various diseases. The present study was undertaken to assess the potential of Lawsonia inermis ethanol (Li.Et) and chloroform (Li.Chf) extracts as memory-enhancing agents in experimental animals. Materials and Methods: Li.Et and Li.Chf were phytochemically characterized via gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Samples were tested for nootropic potentials at doses of 25, 50, 100, 200 mg/kg (per oral in experimental animals (p.o.)). Swiss albino mice of either sex (n = 210) were divided into 21 × 10 groups for each animal model. Memory-enhancing potentials of the samples were assessed using two methods including "without inducing amnesia" and "induction of amnesia" by administration of diazepam (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneally. Piracetam at 400 mg/kg (i.p.) was used as positive control. Cognitive behavioral models including elevated plus maze (EPM) and the passive shock avoidance (PSA) paradigm were used. Biochemical markers of oxidative stress such as glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were analyzed in the brain tissue of treated mice. Results: In 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals scavenging assay, Li.Et and Li.Chf exhibited 70.98 ± 1.56 and 66.99 ± 1.76% inhibitions respectively at 1.28 mg/mL concentration. GCMS results revealed the presence of important phytochemicals. Both samples (Li.Et and Li.Chf) at 25 mg/kg (p.o.) dose significantly (p < 0.05) improved learning and memory as indicated by decline in transfer latency and increase in step down latency in EPM and PSA models respectively. Li.Et and Li.Chf at 25 mg/kg (p.o.) showed considerable increase in GSH (2.75 ± 0.018 ***), SOD (2.61 ± 0.059 ***) and CAT (2.71 ± 0.049 ***) levels as compared to positive and negative control groups. Conclusions: This study provides the preliminary clue that L. inermis may be a potential source of memory-enhancing and anti-oxidant compounds and thus warrant further studies.

Effects of rhubarb (Rheum ribes L.) syrup on dysenteric diarrhea in children: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Rheum ribes L. is a plant native to China, Iran, Turkey, India, and a few other countries. Antidiarrheal activity is considered to be one of its important properties according to various systems of traditional medicine. An increasing rate of bacterial resistance to antibiotics has led to treatment failure in some cases of shigellosis in children, and underlines a need for safe, efficient and valid options.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of R. ribes syrup as a complementary medicine for treatment of shigellosis in children.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial started with a group of 150 children aged between 12-72 months with suspected Shigella dysentery. R. ribes syrup or placebo syrup was administered to the intervention and control groups, respectively for 5 days. In addition, the standard antibiotic treatment (ceftriaxone for the first 3 days and cefixime syrup for 2 further days) was administered to both groups.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Body temperature, abdominal pain, need for antipyretics, defecation frequency, stool volume and consistency and microscopic stool examination were recorded as outcome measures. Any observed adverse effects were also recorded.

RESULTS

Mean duration of fever and diarrhea in the R. ribes group was significantly lower than that in the placebo group (P = 0.016 and 0.001, respectively). In addition, patients in the R. ribes group showed shorter duration of need for antipyretics and shorter duration of abdominal pain (P = 0.012 and 0.001, respectively). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the microscopic stool analyses. Furthermore, no adverse effect was reported.

CONCLUSION

R. ribes syrup can be recommended as a complementary treatment for children with Shigella dysentery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial: IRCT2014070518356N1.

Ethnobotany of the genus Taraxacum-Phytochemicals and antimicrobial activity

Plants belonging to the genus Taraxacum have been used in traditional healthcare to treat infectious diseases including food-borne infections. This review aims to summarize the available information on Taraxacum spp., focusing on plant cultivation, ethnomedicinal uses, bioactive phytochemicals, and antimicrobial properties. Phytochemicals present in Taraxacum spp. include sesquiterpene lactones, such as taraxacin, mongolicumin B, and taraxinic acid derivatives; triterpenoids, such as taraxasterol, taraxerol, and officinatrione; and phenolic derivatives, such as hydroxycinnamic acids (chlorogenic, chicoric, and caffeoyltartaric acids), coumarins (aesculin and cichoriin), lignans (mongolicumin A), and taraxacosides. Aqueous and organic extracts of different plant parts exhibit promising in vitro antimicrobial activity relevant for controlling fungi and Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, this genus represents a potential source of bioactive phytochemicals with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, so far, preclinical evidence for these activities has not been fully substantiated by clinical studies. Indeed, clinical evidence for the activity of Taraxacum bioactive compounds is still scant, at least for infectious diseases, and there is limited information on oral bioavailability, pharmacological activities, and safety of Taraxacum products in humans, though their traditional uses would suggest that these plants are safe.

Antilisterial Effect of Rosa damascena and Nymphaea alba in Mus musculus

The present study was proposed to investigate the toxicological and prophylactic potential of ethanolic extracts of Rosa damascena and Nymphaea alba and their mixture in albino mice. For toxicity study, three different doses of plant extracts were orally administrated to three groups of mice for 14 successive days. Blood biochemistry and histological examinations of liver and kidney revealed that these extracts had no harmful effects up to 1000 mg/kg. To determine the prophylactic effects of Rosa damascena, Nymphaea alba, and their mixture, an infection model of Listeria monocytogenes was established in a pilot study. Establishment of infection was confirmed by changes in haematological parameters and reisolation of Listeria monocytogenes from different tissues. Results showed that these extracts alone or in combination could restrict the growth of Listeria monocytogenes in different organs. Neutrophils were high in positive control group but remained in normal range in all treated groups. Listeria monocytogenes was recovered in low numbers from animals treated with extract of single plant but was negligible in group treated with mixture of extract of plants. Platelets count was increased in treated groups as compared to control. Results confirmed that these extracts are potent source of antimicrobial compounds and that they have synergistic effect in combined form.

Antimicrobial activity of various ethanolic plant extracts against pathogenic multi drug resistant Candida spp

A total of 50 Candida isolates were isolated and identified from clinical specimens and these were tested for resistance to various antifungal drugs. It was observed multi-drug resistance in all candida isolates by 84%, 62%, 60%, 76%, 46, 30%, and 22% against fluconazole, clotrimazole, Amphotericin B, itraconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole and nystatin tested respectively. The isolates, which were found to be resistant to antifungal drugs were selected and subjected to antifungal testing against six ethanolic plants, extract namely Azadiracta indica, Allium sativum, Cordia dichotoma Ocimum sanctum, Syzygium cumini and Trigonella foenum grecum. All the plant extracts tested were found to effective against all MDR Candida isolates with inhibition zone ranging from 10- 18mm in diameter. Ethanolic extract of Allium sativum was observed most effective against the isolates among all the plants extracts tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of all ethanolic plant extract was recorded ranging from 1.56-25mg/ml against MDR candida isolates. Phytochemical analysis of the alcoholic plant extracts revealed the presence of alkaloid, flavanoid, glycosoid, phenol; phenol, tannins, saponins in all the plants studied. The present study may be successful in identifying the plants with different antimicrobial activity. These plants containing various phytochemicals may be exploited in the treatment of infectious diseases caused by drug-resistant microorganisms.

Medicinal plants of the family Caryophyllaceae: a review of ethno-medicinal uses and pharmacological properties

Several species of the family Caryophyllaceae are widely used by many ethnic communities as traditional medicine throughout the world. The highest number of plants of the family are used in Chinese traditional medicine. The ethnopharmacologial studies of this family indicate that plants of the family possess anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Other miscellaneous properties reported are ribosome inactivation properties, inhibition of prostatic enlargement in rats, and inhibition of intestinal enzyme carboxyelasterase in rats, cerebro-protective activity, and antiobesity in rats. Few reviews have been published yet, providing information regarding medicinal plants of the family and their biomedical properties. All published reviews have focused either on a particular taxa or a few species. The present review is focused on the traditional medicinal uses of the plants of the family Caryophyllaceae along with phytochemical and pharmacological studies of the family. A study of the literature revealed significant traditional medicinal importance of the family. Major chemical constituents of Caryophyllceae are saponins, Phytoecdysteroids, benzenoids, phenyl propanoids, and nitrogen containing compounds. The most important property of plants of the family is anticancer activity and is shown by the large number of plant species studied. This review of traditional medicinal and pharmacological uses of plants of the family, provide a ground for future research in the family.

Evaluation of antiviral activity of essential oil of Trachyspermum Ammi against Japanese encephalitis virus

Background:

Japanese encephalitis is a leading form of viral encephalitis, prevalent mostly in South Eastern Asia caused by Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It is transmitted by the mosquitoes of the Culex sp. The disease affects children and results in 50% result in permanent neuropsychiatric disorder. There arises a need to develop a safe, affordable, and potent anti-viral agent against JEV. This study aimed to assess the antiviral activity of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi: Umbellifereae) essential oil against JEV.

Materials and Methods:

Ajwain oil was extracted by distillation method and in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed in vero cell line by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay method. JEV titer was determined by plaque assay and in vitro antiviral activity of ajwain oil was quantified by the plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT).

Results:

Cytotoxic concentration of the oil was found to be 1 mg/ml by MTT assay. The titer of the virus pool was found to be 50× 10⁷ PFU/ml. we observed 80% and 40% virus inhibition in 0.5mg/ml of ajwain oil by PRNT method in preexposure treatment and postexposure treatment (antiviral activity), respectively.

Conclusion:

Our data indicate ajwain oil has potential in vitro antiviral activity against JEV. Further, the active biomolecule will be purified and evaluated for anti-JEV activity and also to scale up for in vivo trial to evaluate the efficacy of ajwain oil in future.

Antibacterial Balsacones J-M, Hydroxycinnamoylated Dihydrochalcones from Populus balsamifera Buds

A phytochemical investigation of buds from the hardwood tree Populus balsamifera led to the isolation of six new cinnamoylated dihydrochalcones as pairs of racemates and one as a racemic mixture along with the known compound iryantherin-D (2), the absolute configuration of which was determined for the first time. The structures of balsacones J (1), K (3), L (4), and M (5) were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data (1D and 2D NMR, IR, and MS). Chiral HPLC separations were carried out, and the absolute configuration of the isolated enantiomers unambiguously established via X-ray diffraction analyses and electron circular dichroism spectroscopic data. Each of the purified enantiomers exhibited potent in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus with IC50 values ranging from 0.61 to 6 μM.

Influence of microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation on terpene emission and content in aromatic plants

Influence of environmental stress factors on both crop and wild plants of nutritional value is an important research topic. The past research has focused on rising temperatures, drought, soil salinity and toxicity, but the potential effects of increased environmental contamination by human-generated electromagnetic radiation on plants have little been studied. Here we studied the influence of microwave irradiation at bands corresponding to wireless router (WLAN) and mobile devices (GSM) on leaf anatomy, essential oil content and volatile emissions in Petroselinum crispum, Apium graveolens and Anethum graveolens. Microwave irradiation resulted in thinner cell walls, smaller chloroplasts and mitochondria, and enhanced emissions of volatile compounds, in particular, monoterpenes and green leaf volatiles (GLV). These effects were stronger for WLAN-frequency microwaves. Essential oil content was enhanced by GSM-frequency microwaves, but the effect of WLAN-frequency microwaves was inhibitory. There was a direct relationship between microwave-induced structural and chemical modifications of the three plant species studied. These data collectively demonstrate that human-generated microwave pollution can potentially constitute a stress to the plants.

In vitro phytochemical, antibacterial, and antifungal activities of leaf, stem, and root extracts of Adiantum capillus veneris

Adiantum capillus veneris is a medicinally essential plant used for the treatment of diverse infectious diseases. The study of phytochemical and antimicrobial activities of the plant extracts against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria and medically important fungi is of immense significance. Extracts from the leaves, stems, and roots of Adiantum capillus veneris were extracted with water, methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and hexane and screened for their antimicrobial activity against ten MDR bacterial strains and five fungal strains isolated from clinical and water samples. Ash, moisture, and extractive values were determined according to standard protocols. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy) studies were performed on different phytochemicals isolated from the extracts of Adiantum capillus Veneris. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, steroids, and reducing sugars. Water, methanol, and ethanol extracts of leaves, stems, and roots showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activities against most of the MDR bacterial and fungal strains. This study concluded that extracts of Adiantum capillus veneris have valuable phytochemicals and significant activities against most of the MDR bacterial strains and medically important fungal strains.

Plants used for treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea by the Bhoxa community of district Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dysentery and diarrhoea are major causes of morbidity and mortality in rural communities of developing world. The Bhoxa community is an important primitive indigenous community of Uttarakhand, India. In this paper we have tried to scientifically enumerate ethnomedicinal plants and herbal preparations used by Bhoxa community to treat dysentery and diarrhoea, and discuss their antidiarrhoeal properties in the light of previous ethnomedicinal, pharmacological, microbiological and phytochemical studies. To record plants and herbal preparations used by Bhoxa community of district Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India in treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea, and to discuss antidiarrhoeal and antimicrobial properties of the recorded plants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnomedicinal survey was conducted in different villages of Bhoxa community located in district Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Thirty Bhoxa traditional healers were interviewed to collect information on plants used by them for treating dysentery and diarrhoea. For each of the recorded plant species the use value (UV) and fidelity level (FL) was calculated. Detailed literature survey was conducted to summarize ethnomedicinal, pharmacological, microbiological and phytochemical information on the medicinal plants listed in the present study.

RESULTS

Fifty medicinal plants (45 genera and 30 families) were used by Bhoxa community to treat dysentery and diarrhoea, among which 27 species were used for dysentery, 41 for diarrhoea and 18 for both dysentery and diarrhoea. Three plants viz., Dioscorea bulbifera L., Euphorbia thymifolia L. and Prunus persica (L.) Stokes, recorded in the present survey have been reported for the first time in treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea by any indigenous communities in India. FL and UV values revealed that most preferred species for the treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea by Bhoxa community are Euphorbia hirta L. followed by Holarrhena pubescens Wall., Helicteres isora L. and Cassia fistula L. Earlier pharmacological studies confirmed that 27 of the recorded plants have some proven antidiarrhoeal properties and remaining 23 plants have to be pharmacologically evaluated for their antidiarrhoeal properties. Except 6 plants all the other recorded plants have shown antimicrobial properties in previous microbiological studies. Previous studies have corroborated the ethnomedicinal claims made by the traditional healers of the Bhoxa community.

CONCLUSIONS

Present study has provided new information on many medicinal plants and their uses. All the three newly reported plants for treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea have not been pharmacologically evaluated yet for their possible antidiarrhoeal properties. Twenty-three and six plants have not been evaluated pharmacologically and microbiologically, respectively. The present information may serve as a baseline data to initiate further research for discovery of new compounds and biological activities of these potential plants. Further research on these plants may provide some important clues for development of new drugs for dysentery and diarrhoea or other related diseases.

Isolation of Methyl Gallate from Toxicodendron sylvestre and Its Effect on Tomato Bacterial Wilt

We determined that the methanol extract of Toxicodendron sylvestre could significantly inhibit Ralstonia solanacearum in vitro and in planta. One compound responsible for the antibacterial activity was isolated from the ethyl ether extract and identified as methyl gallate (MG) based on its ¹H and ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance data as well as mass spectroscopy. MG displayed broad-spectrum activity against plant-pathogenic bacteria, and strong inhibitory effects on the growth of plant-pathogenic oomycetes. The half inhibition concentration of MG on R. solanacearum was 8.3 mg/liter, which was tested by the agar dilution method. Disease control trials in planta showed that both natural and synthetic MG could effectively reduce the incidence of tomato bacterial wilt, and there was no significant difference between them in control efficacy. This is the first report on the use of MG for the control of a plant bacterial disease. Because of its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and significant control efficacy on tomato bacterial wilt in planta, MG shows potential to be used as a bactericide to control plant bacterial wilt.

Antimicrobial activity of the extracts from fruits of Rumex L. species

This study was designed primarily to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activity of the extracts from fruits of six Rumex L. species: R. acetosa L., R. acetosella L., R. confertus Willd., R. crispus L., R. hydrolapathum Huds. and R. obtusifolius L. The 7 Grampositive and 7 Gram-negative bacteria strains and 5 fungal ones were tested by agar and broth dilution method. Determination of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) revealed that the extracts from R. confertus, R. crispus, R. hydrolapathum and R. obtusifolius exerted differential inhibitory effect on the growth of Gram-positive bacteria — staphylococci (MIC=62.5–125 µg/mL) and Gramnegative bacteria — Escherichia coli ATCC 3521, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC=125→500 µg/mL); MIC values determined by agar dilution method were somewhat higher. The same extracts inhibited also the growth of fungi — Candida spp. or Trichophyton mentagrophytes ATCC 9533 (MIC=250–500 µg/mL), as found by agar dilution method. The total content of polyphenols (11.66–78.36 mg/g), anthracene derivatives (0.26–12.93 mg/g) and tannins (4.00–11.16%) was also determined.

Ethnobotanical and scientific aspects of Malva sylvestris L.: a millennial herbal medicine

OBJECTIVES

Malva sylvestris L., known as common mallow, is native to Europe, North Africa and Asia. In the Mediterranean region, this species has a long history of use as food, and due to its therapeutic relevance, some parts of this plant have been employed in traditional and ethnoveterinary medicines. The leaves in particular have been reported to have potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-complementary, anticancer and skin tissue integrity activity. Additionally, an anti-ulcerogenic effect was recently proven, demonstrating that the aqueous extract was more effective than cimetidine, a potent medicine used to treat gastric ulcers. Due to its wide use and medicinal importance, many studies have been conducted; however, the information in the literature is very extensive and disseminated, making it difficult to use.

KEY FINDINGS

A complete review involving the ethnobotanical and scientific aspects of M. sylvestris has been made. The research has provided evidence that M. sylvestris has potential use as a medicinal plant and has highlighted a need for more studies involving clinical and toxicological aspects of its use.

SUMMARY

This review can contribute to the field with its historical context, and by describing the progress made, new ideas for researchers can arise.

Effect of plant oils on Candida albicans

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Candida species, notably Candida albicans, is the major fungal pathogen in humans. It is a dimorphic fungus capable of causing superficial mucosal infections, as well as systemic infections, in immunocompromised individuals. The factors responsible for its pathogenesis are still not fully understood and increasing resistance to commonly used antifungal agents necessitates the search for new formulations.

METHODS

The inhibitory effect of 30 different plant oils on Candida albicans isolated from clinical samples was evaluated. The antifungal agent fluconazole was used as a positive control. Plant oils were tested at concentrations from 0.03% to 3% (v/v) to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) using agar dilution and macro broth dilution assays.

RESULTS

Of the 30 plant oils tested, 18 were found to be effective and 12 were ineffective. Based on their MFCs, effective oils were placed into three categories: most effective, moderately effective and least effective. Eucalyptus and peppermint oils were most effective, with MFC values of 0.12% and 0.15% (v/v), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The significant antifungal activity of these oils suggests that they could serve as a source of compounds with therapeutic potential against Candida-related infections.

Determination of antimicrobial activity of sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa) on Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolated from food, veterinary, and clinical samples

The use of medicinal plants as natural antimicrobial agents is gaining popularity. Sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is widely used for the treatment of diseases. The objective of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of sorrel on Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates from food, veterinary, and clinical samples. Phenolics of the calyces were extracted from 10 g of ground, freeze-dried samples using 100 mL of 80% aqueous methanol. Concentrations of 10%, 5%, and 2.5% methanol extract of sorrel were investigated for its antimicrobial activity. Inhibition zones were indicated by a lack of microbial growth due to inhibitory concentrations of sorrel diffused into semisolid culture medium beneath the sorrel-impregnated disk. The results of this experiment showed that the most potent sorrel concentration was 10%, then 5%, and finally 2.5%. The overall mean zone of inhibition for the sorrel extract was 12.66 mm for 10%, 10.75 mm for 5%, and 8.9 mm for 2.5%. The highest inhibition zones (11.16 mm) were observed in veterinary samples, and the lowest (10.57 mm) in the food samples. There were significant (P<.05) differences among mean zones of inhibition found in the food, veterinary, and clinical sources. Based on the source of samples and concentration of sorrel extract, the lowest mean inhibition was 7.00±0.04 mm from clinical samples, and the highest was 15.37±0.61 mm from a food source. These findings indicated that sorrel was effective at all levels in inhibiting E. coli O157:H7; thus it possesses antimicrobial activity and hold great promise as an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial activity of five herbal extracts against multi drug resistant (MDR) strains of bacteria and fungus of clinical origin

Antimicrobial activities of the crude ethanolic extracts of five plants were screened against multidrug resistant (MDR) strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans. ATCC strains of Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus bovis, Pseudimonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans were also tested. The strains that showed resistance against the maximum number of antibiotics tested were selected for an antibacterial assay. The MDR strains were sensitive to the antimicrobial activity of Acacia nilotica, Syzygium aromaticum and Cinnamum zeylanicum, whereas they exhibited strong resistance to the extracts of Terminalia arjuna and Eucalyptus globulus. Community-acquired infections showed higher sensitivity than the nosocomial infections against these extracts. The most potent antimicrobial plant was A. nilotica (MIC range 9.75-313 microg/ml), whereas other crude plant extracts studied in this report were found to exhibit higher MIC values than A. nilotica against community acquired as well as nosocomial infection. This study concludes that A. nilotica, C. zeylanicum and S. aromaticum can be used against multidrug resistant microbes causing nosocomial and community acquired infections.

Anti-quorum sensing activity of medicinal plants in southern Florida

Bacterial intercellular communication, or quorum sensing (QS), controls the pathogenesis of many medically important organisms. Anti-QS compounds are known to exist in marine algae and have the ability to attenuate bacterial pathogenicity. We hypothesized that terrestrial plants traditionally used as medicines may also produce anti-QS compounds. To test this hypothesis, 50 medicinal plants from southern Florida were screened for anti-QS activity using two biomonitor strains, Chromobacterium violaceum and Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Of these plants, six showed QS inhibition: Conocarpus erectus L. (Combretaceae), Chamaecyce hypericifolia (L.) Millsp. (Euphorbiaceae), Callistemon viminalis (Sol. ex Gaertn.) G. Don (Myrtaceae), Bucida burceras L. (Combretaceae), Tetrazygia bicolor (Mill.) Cogn. (Melastomataceae), and Quercus virginiana Mill. (Fagaceae). This study introduces not only a new mode of action and possible validation for traditional plant use, but also a potentially new therapeutic direction for the treatment of bacterial infections.