Ethnobotany of medicinal plants used in Antakya: A multicultural district in Hatay Province of Turkey

Insights into the anticancer effects of galangal and galangin: A comprehensive review

BACKGROUNDS

Cancer continues to be the leading cause of death worldwide, significantly impacting both health and the economy. Natural products have emerged as promising sources for the development of new anticancer drugs, with galangal and their active ingredient, galangin, garnering substantial interest.

PURPOSE

This study summarizes recent findings on the anticancer properties of galangal and galangin, highlighting their potential to target various cancer types.

METHODS

We systematically searched the literature across PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "Alpinia officinarum," "Alpinia galanga", "galangal," and "galangin." This thorough approach allowed us to gather and compile a comprehensive collection of existing research on the topic.

RESULTS

This article provided a thorough analysis of the distribution of galangal, the methods used to extract the active compounds of galangal, and the anticancer properties of both galangin and galangal. It is important to note that galangal and galangin primarily function by regulating the signaling pathways of PI3K/Akt, MAPK, AMPK, p53, NF-κB, and Ras/RAF/MEK/ERK, which in turn triggers apoptosis, autophagy, and ROS while preventing the migration and invasion of cancer cells. We also discussed their toxicity, bioavailability, and clinical uses.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, galangal extract and galangin have a lot of promise for treating cancer. It is anticipated that this review will further advance the use of galangal extract and galangin as potential cancer treatment medications. Moreover, the discovery and development of drugs based on galangal has enormous potential for the therapy of cancer.

A review of the ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, and pharmacological properties of the Ferulago genus based on Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) of coumarins

BACKGROUND

The Ferluago W.D.J. Koch genus includes 48 accepted perennial herbs that are distributed in the Mediterranean region, Southeast Europe, Central and Middle East of Asia. These plants are widely used in folk and conventional medicine due to their biological benefits such as anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immunomodulatory properties. Conducting a comprehensive review based on the structure activity relationships (SARs) of the coumarins, which has not been previously documented, can lead to a better insight into the genus Ferulago and its beneficial therapeutic activities.

METHODS

This review covers literature from 1969 to 2023, were collected from various scientific electronic databases to review phytochemical, pharmacological, and ethnopharmacological data of Ferulago species, as well as latest information on the SAR of reported coumarins from this genus.

RESULTS

Phytochemical studies showed that the biological actions of this genus are mediated by the reported specialized metabolites, such as coumarins and flavonoids. Simple coumarins, prenylated coumarins, furanocoumarins, and pyranocoumarins are the largest subclasses of coumarins found in diverse Ferulago species, which have discussed the biological effects of them with a focus on the Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR). For example, prenylated coumarins have shown potential leishmanicidal and anti-neuropsychiatric effects when substituted with a prenyl group at the 7-hydroxy, as well as the C6 and C8 positions in their scaffold. Similarly, furanocoumarins exhibit varied biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-convulsant effects. Modifying substitutions at the C5 and C6 positions in furanocoumarins can enhance these activities.

CONCLUSION

This study conducted a comprehensive review of all available information on the phytochemical and pharmacological characteristics of Ferulago species. Given the high occurrence of coumarins in this genus, which exhibit potential anti-Alzheimer and anti-microbial properties, it presents promising new therapeutic avenues for addressing these common issues. Further investigation is needed to understand the molecular-level mechanisms of action and to explore their clinical applications.

Recent progress on Prangos (Apiaceae) species used in traditional herbal medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Plants have been used for a long time in traditional medicine to treat many diseases. The genus Prangos belongs to the Apiaceae family and has various medicinal and aromatic species. Since ancient times, Prangos species have been employed extensively in traditional medicine for different purposes and are especially popular for their aphrodisiac effects.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The goal of this paper is to represent a systematic review of the species in the genus Prangos, including their botanical characteristics, uses in traditional medicine, phytochemical constituents, the composition of the essential oils produced, and the biological properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The articles regarding traditional uses and bioactivities of Prangos species were evaluated using electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Use of the World Flora Online (WFO) - The Plant List, The International Plant Names Index, the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (2024), and ChemDraw Professional helped complete this compilation.

RESULTS

Phytochemical investigations have indicated that coumarins are characteristic constituents of Prangos species, especially prenylated simple coumarins and furanocoumarins, and also flavonoids, terpenoids, and phytosterols occur in this genus. In addition, the essential oils of these plants have been examined. The biological properties of the Prangos species seem worthy of further investigation. Also, some information about the toxicity of these species and their use as ingredients in food products is presented.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights the evaluation of traditional knowledge, phytochemical profiles, biological activities, and potential uses of Prangos species as foods and spices. Many pharmacological activities have been performed related to their traditional uses, but frequently, the exact mechanism of action remains scientifically unproven. This review has compiled data on the phytochemistry, the active secondary metabolites, the biological properties, and recent advances in Prangos species.

German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) Flower Extract, Its Amino Acid Preparations and 3D-Printed Dosage Forms: Phytochemical, Pharmacological, Technological, and Molecular Docking Study

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) is an essential oil- containing medicinal plant used worldwide. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge of the phytochemical composition and the analgesic and soporific activity of Matricaria chamomilla L. (German chamomile) flower extract and its amino acid preparations, to predict the mechanisms of their effects by molecular docking and to develop aqueous printing gels and novel 3D-printed oral dosage forms for the flower extracts. In total, 22 polyphenolic compounds and 14 amino acids were identified and quantified in the M. chamomilla extracts. In vivo animal studies with rodents showed that the oral administration of such extracts revealed the potential for treating of sleep disorders and diseases accompanied by pain. Amino acids were found to potentiate these effects. Glycine enhanced the analgesic activity the most, while lysine and β-alanine improved the soporific activity. The molecular docking analysis revealed a high probability of γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism and 5-lipoxygenase (LOX-5) inhibition by the extracts. A polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based gel composition with the M. chamomilla extracts was proposed for preparing a novel 3D-printed dosage form for oral administration. These 3D-printed extract preparations can be used, for example, in dietary supplement applications.

Genus Equisetum L: Taxonomy, toxicology, phytochemistry and pharmacology

INTRODUCTION

The genus Equisetum (Equisetaceae) is cosmopolitan in distribution, with 41 recognized species. Several species of Equisetum are widely used in treating genitourinary and related diseases, inflammatory and rheumatic problems, hypertension, and wound healing in traditional medicine practices worldwide. This review intends to present information on the traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of Equisetum spp. and to analyze the new insights for further study.

METHODS

Relevant literature has been scanned and collected via various electronic repositories, including PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Springer Connect, and Science Online, from 1960 to 2022.

RESULTS

Sixteen Equisetum spp. were documented as widely used in traditional medicine practices by different ethnic groups throughout the world. A total of 229 chemical compounds were identified from Equisetum spp. with the major group of constituents being flavonol glycosides and flavonoids. The crude extracts and phytochemicals of Equisetum spp. exhibited significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and diuretic properties. A wide range of studies have also demonstrated the safety of Equisetum spp.

CONCLUSION

The reported pharmacological properties of Equisetum spp. support its use in traditional medicine, though there are gaps in understanding the traditional usage of these plants for clinical experiments. The documented information revealed that the genus is not only a great herbal remedy but also has several bioactives with the potential to be discovered as novel drugs. Detailed scientific investigation is still needed to fully understand the efficacy of this genus; hence, very few Equisetum spp. were studied in detail for phytochemical and pharmacological investigation. Moreover, its bioactives, structure-activity connection, in vivo activity, and associated mechanism of action ought to be explored further.

An Ethnobotanical Study in Ceylanlı Village (Kırıkhan/Hatay-Türkiye)

This study was carried out to determine the ethnobotanical characteristics of some plants distributed in Ceylanlı village (Kırıkhan/Hatay) on the slopes of Amanos Mountain. As a result of the field studies carried out between 2019 and 2021 and the interviews with the local people, it was determined that 75 taxa belonging to 41 families were used by the local people in the research area. The local names of the plants, the harvest season, the parts used, the usage purposes, and forms were determined by face-to-face interviews with different local people in their houses, farms, gardens or natural areas. The families having the highest number of using taxa in the area were determined to be Asteraceae and Lamiaceae (8 taxa each), Rosaceae (6 taxa), Amaryllidaceae, Brassicaceae, and Fabaceae (4 taxa each). In total 116 different uses belonging to the plants in the study area were determined, including uses for medical purposes such as wounds, respiratory tract, and stomachic diseases (47 taxa), food (20 taxa), daily items (6 taxa), spice (4 taxa), firewood (3 taxa), and for other different purposes (14 taxa). The obtained results were discussed by comparing them with the relevant literature. Our results show that most of the plants identified were collected by local people from their natural habitats. The local community in our study area was informed to reduce the collection of natural medicinal plants unconsciously and about the importance of cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants. It is believed that this study will contribute to all relevant studies at national and international scales.

Comparative Investigation of Chemical Constituents of Kernels, Leaves, Husk, and Bark of Juglans regia L., Using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS Analysis and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

Leaves, husk, kernels, and bark methanolic extracts of Juglans regia L. were tested for their in vitro antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. For these purposes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase were used as the main enzymes to evaluate antidiabetic activities. Moreover, lipoxidase and tyrosinase activities were tested to estimate anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidant properties of Juglans regia L., extracts were determined using three different assays. Leaves extract has an important radical scavenging activity and a-amylase inhibition. Similarly, husk extracts showed high total phenolic content (306.36 ± 4.74 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry extract) with an important α-amylase inhibition (IC50 = 75.42 ± 0.99 µg/mL). Kernels exhibit significant tyrosinase (IC50 = 51.38 ± 0.81 µg/mL) correlated with antioxidant activities (p < 0.05). Husk and bark extracts also showed strong anti-lipoxidase activities with IC50 equal to 29.48 ± 0.28 and 28.58 ± 0.35 µg/mL, respectively. HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis highlights the phenolic profile of methanolic extracts of Juglans regia L. plant parts. The identified polyphenols were known for their antioxidant, antidiabetic (dicaffeoyl-quinic acid glycoside in kernels), and anti-inflammatory (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid in leaves) activities. Further investigations are needed to determine molecular mechanisms involved in these effects as well as to study the properties of the main identified compounds.

Ethnobotanical study of endemic and non-endemic medicinal plants used by indigenous people in environs of Gullele botanical garden Addis Ababa, central Ethiopia: A major focus on Asteraceae family

Gullele Botanical Garden (GBG) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is a joint venture of Addis Ababa government and the university. The garden has been built mainly to conserve the endemic plants and to advance the research on the endemic and non-endemic plants collected from different part of Ethiopia. Many traditional healers from the environs of GBG and different subcities of Addis Ababa depend on the garden for their practice of traditional medicine but there is no systematic documentation of the traditional medicinal knowledge of these healers. The main objective of the present study is to comprehensively document the ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal information from the traditional healers of different ethnic and cultural groups depending on GBG and to create a database of the endemic plants used by these healers. The ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal data obtained from 60 traditional healers have been analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. A total of 81 medicinal plants belonging to 47 families have been identified. Majority of the plants used belonged to Asteraceae (12) family. The most frequently used plant form and plant parts are herbs and leaves. The major method adopted by the healers for preparation and administration of traditional medicine is crushing and topical, respectively. Skin and general diseases are the most important ailments treated by the healers. The three most cited plants used to treat diseases are Echinops kebericho Mesfin (60), Hagenia abyssinica (Bruce) J.F.Gmel (60) and Laggera tomentosa (A.Rich.) Sch.Bip. ex Oliv. & Hiern (58). The present study is the first systematic, qualitative, and quantitative ethnobotanical analysis and documentation done on the use of the medicinal plants from GBG for traditional medicine. In addition, our study reveals that E. kebericho is endemic and endangered plant and is highly used in traditional medicine. Therefore, GBG authorities should take steps for the propagation and restoration of this plant. Further it is suggested that the pharmacological properties of the roots and leaves of E. kebericho should be compared to find the possibility of use of leaves in place of roots for the preparation of traditional medicine which would help in conserving this endemic plant of Ethiopia.

An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants in Güce district, north-eastern Turkey

This study aims to identify medicinal plants traditionally used to treat diseases by local people living in Güce district, north-eastern Turkey. The study was carried out between 2018 and 2021 using a two-part semi-structured, open-ended questionnaire with 165 local people. Data were analysed using use-report, frequency of citation, and informant consensus factor. Informants identified 128 vascular medicinal plant taxa belonging to 54 families and 106 genera. The most common plant taxa belong to Rosaceae (16 taxa/12.5%), Asteraceae (12 taxa/9.4%), and Lamiaceae (9 taxa/7%) families. The most frequently used preparation method reported was decoction (39.8%); the most commonly utilized plant parts were leaves (40.3%). Statistical analysis reveals that women in Güce district (df = 163, p = 0.043 < 0.05) possess the most traditional knowledge. The highest frequency of citation (61) and use report (92) were recorded for Tilia rubra subsp. caucasica, and the highest informant consensus factors were cited for respiratory system disorders (0.86), digestive system disorders (0.73), and skin disorders (0.71). This study reported nine plant taxa as medicinal plants for the first time, and documented a total of 293 new therapeutic uses. However, the study indicates that the transfer of traditional knowledge to future generations is limited (F = 3.355, p = 0.020). Action should be taken as soon as possible to preserve existing traditional knowledge and to ensure its transfer to future generations.

Ethnopharmacological study of medicinal plants in Kastamonu province (Türkiye)

This study is aimed at determining some of the plants traditionally used in the treatment of diseases by the local people living in Kastamonu province center and surrounding villages. A face-to-face questionnaire was applied and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 52 informants, 34 women and 18 men. Identification of 92 plants belonging to 41 families has been confirmed and their medicinal uses have been recorded. The most used families were Rosaceae (13 taxa), Asteraceae (11), and Lamiaceae (11). The most preferred folk recipes of medicinal plants was decoction (55 taxa) and in preparations and applications, the most used were the leaves (45 taxa). According to the International Classification of Primary Care categories, plants were the most used for digestive disorders (37 taxa), respiratory disorders (27 taxa), and urological disorders (24 taxa). The highest use-value was recorded for Urtica dioica (0.519), and highest relative frequency citation was recorded for Tilia rubra subsp. caucasica (0.231). Male genital diseases had the highest informant consensus factor value (0.83). New areas of use were also determined for Pilosella leucopsilon subsp. pilisquama, Galium palustre, and Astragalus nitens. With this study, new information for folkloric medicines is presented and the usage of herbal drugs in the study area are enhanced.

Medicinal Plants Used Traditionally for Skin Related Problems in the South Balkan and East Mediterranean Region—A Review

A review research was conducted to provide an overview of the ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional medical practices for the treatment of skin disorders in Albania, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. The geographical and ecological characteristics of the Balkan Peninsula and Mediterranean Sea, along with the historical connection among those countries, gave rise to the development of a distinct flora and to the uses of common medicinal plants against various skin ailments, respectively. The review focuses on the detailed study of 128 ethnobotanical surveys conducted in these areas and the species used for skin ailments were singled out. The analysis showed that 967 taxa belonging to 418 different genera and 111 different families are used in the treatment of skin related problems. The majority of the plants belong to the families of Asteraceae (11.7%), Lamiaceae (7.4%), Rosaceae (6.7%), Plantaginaceae (5.4%), and Malvaceae (3.8%). Their usage is internal or external to treat ailments such as wounds and burns (22.1%), hemorrhoids (14.7%), boils, abscesses, and furuncles (8.2%). Beside specific skin disorders, numerous species appeared to be used for their antifungal, antimicrobial, and antiseptic activity (9.1%). Literature evaluation highlighted that, the most commonly used species are Plantago major L. (Albania, Turkey), Hypericum perforatum L. (Greece, Turkey), Sambucus nigra L. (Cyprus, Greece), Ficus carica L. (Cyprus, Turkey), Matricaria chamomilla L. (Cyprus, Greece), and Urtica dioica L. (Albania, Turkey), while many medicinal plants reported by interviewees were common in all four countries. Finally, to relate this ethnopharmacological knowledge and trace its expansion and diversification through centuries, a comparison of findings was made with the use of the species mentioned in Dioscorides’ “De Materia Medica” for skin disorders. This work constitutes the first comparative study performed with ethnobotanical data for skin ailments gathered in the South Balkan and East Mediterranean areas. Results confirm the primary hypothesis that people in Albania, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey are closely related in terms of traditionally using folk medicinal practices. Nevertheless, more field studies conducted, especially in remote places of these regions, can help preserve the traditional medical knowledge, aiming at the discovery of new phytotherapeutics against dermatological diseases.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.): A Review of Ethnomedicinal Use, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Uses

Matricaria chamomilla L. is a famous medicinal plant distributed worldwide. It is widely used in traditional medicine to treat all kinds of diseases, including infections, neuropsychiatric, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and liver disorders. It is also used as a sedative, antispasmodic, antiseptic, and antiemetic. In this review, reports on M. chamomilla taxonomy, botanical and ecology description, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, biological and pharmacological properties, possible application in different industries, and encapsulation were critically gathered and summarized. Scientific search engines such as Web of Science, PubMed, Wiley Online, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar were used to gather data on M. chamomilla. The phytochemistry composition of essential oils and extracts of M. chamomilla has been widely analyzed, showing that the plant contains over 120 constituents. Essential oils are generally composed of terpenoids, such as α-bisabolol and its oxides A and B, bisabolone oxide A, chamazulene, and β-farnesene, among other compounds. On the other hand, M. chamomilla extracts were dominated by phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and coumarins. In addition, M. chamomilla demonstrated several biological properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-parasitic, insecticidal, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. These activities allow the application of M. chamomilla in the medicinal and veterinary field, food preservation, phytosanitary control, and as a surfactant and anti-corrosive agent. Finally, the encapsulation of M. chamomilla essential oils or extracts allows the enhancement of its biological activities and improvement of its applications. According to the findings, the pharmacological activities of M. chamomilla confirm its traditional uses. Indeed, M. chamomilla essential oils and extracts showed interesting antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, anti-pyretic, anti-allergic, and analgesic activities. Moreover, the most important application of M. chamomilla was in the medicinal field on animals and humans.

Phytochemical Constituents, Biological Activities, and Health-Promoting Effects of the Melissa officinalis

Medicinal plants are being used worldwide for centuries for their beneficial properties. Some of the most popular medicinal plants belong to the Melissa genus, and different health beneficial effects have already been identified for this genus. Among these species, in particular, the Melissa officinalis L. has been reported as having many biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumour, antiviral, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, and also flatulence inhibiting effects. The beneficial properties of the Melissa officinalis, also known as "lemon balm herb", can be related to the bioactive compounds such as terpenoids, alcohols, rosmarinic acid, and phenolic antioxidants which are present in the plant. In this updated review, the botanical, geographical, nutritional, phytochemical, and traditional medical aspects of M. officinalis have been considered as well as in vitro and in vivo and clinically proven therapeutic properties have been reviewed with a special focus on health-promoting effects and possible perspective nutraceutical applications. To evidence the relevance of this plant in the research and completely assess the context, a literature quantitative research analysis has been performed indicating the great interest towards this plant for its beneficial properties.

Inventory of Medicinal Plants Used Traditionally to Manage Kidney Diseases in North-Eastern Morocco: Ethnobotanical Fieldwork and Pharmacological Evidence

Kidney disease is one of the most common health problems and kidney failure can be fatal. It is one of the health disorders associated with extreme pain and discomfort in patients. In developing countries, such as Morocco where socioeconomic and sanitary conditions are precarious, medicinal plants are considered the primary source of medication. In the present work an ethnobotanical survey was conducted in a remote area of North-Eastern Morocco and we focused on (1) establishing a record of medicinal plants used traditionally by local people to treat kidney diseases and (2) correlate the obtained ethnomedical use with well-studied pharmacological evidence. From February 2018 to January2020, information was gathered from 488 informants using semi-structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using three quantitative indices: The use value (UV), family use value (FUV), and informant consensus factor (ICF). A total of 121 plant species belonging to 57 botanical families were identified to treat kidney diseases. The families most represented were Asteraceae (14 species), followed by Lamiaceae (12 species) and Apiaceae (10 species). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves, followed by the whole plant and they were most commonly prepared by decoction and infusion. The highest value of the (UV) index was attributed to Herniaria hirsuta L. (UV = 0.16), and the highest family use value (FUV) was assigned to Caryophyllaceae with (FUV = 0.163). Regarding the informant consensus factor (ICF), this index's highest values were recorded for kidney stones (ICF = 0.72). The use of 45% of the selected plants were validated based on literature review. This study helped document and preserve crucial traditional plant knowledge of 121 plant species used to treat kidney problems that can be used in the search for new biologically active compounds through more upcoming pharmacological studies.

Evaluation of the antioxidant and cytotoxic potency of Euphorbia rigida and Arbutus andrachne methanol extracts in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines in vitro

Background

Ethnobotanical studies on plants and their active compounds take a great interest in traditional medicine. After pharmacological and toxicological studies, there will be a possibility to be used in therapy. This study aimed to examine the in vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of the methanol extracts of Arbutus andrachne L. and Euphorbia rigida M.Bieb. 10, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 150 µg mL−1 concentrations of A. andrachne and E. rigida were tested for antioxidant activity by using DPPH radical scavenging assays, total antioxidant capacity (phosphomolybdate assay) and and metal ion chelating activity. In addition, in vitro cytotoxic effects of this plants methanol extracts on Hep3B and HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines were evaluated at 24, 48 and 72 h. The cytotoxicity test was carried using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay.

Results

Methanol extract obtained from both plants showed increased antioxidant activity depending on the increase in concentration. When A. andrachne and E. rigida methanol extracts were compared in free DPPH scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity and metal ion chelating activity, A. andrachne methanol extract was found more effective than E. rigida. Results from MTT assay revealed that except for 72 h treatment of HepG2 cells with 400 and 500 µgmL−1 extract concentrations, A. andrachne methanol extract did not show significant cytotoxic effects on either Hep3B or HepG2 cells at any concentration and treatment time. On the contrary, it significantly increased proliferation in Hep3B cells from 48 h and at a concentration of 100 µg mL−1. E. rigida methanol extract exhibited statistically significant cytotoxic activity on HepG2 cells after 48 and 72 h treatment. However, the treatment concentrations of E. rigida methanol extract were not as effective on Hep3B cells as on HepG2 cells.

Conclusions

According to our findings, it was determined that A. andrachne methanol extract did not have cytotoxic activity on neither Hep3B nor HepG2 cells, while E. rigida methanol extract had cytotoxic activity especially on HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Further research is needed to identify and purify the active ingredients in E. rigida extracts.

Glycyrrhiza Genus: Enlightening Phytochemical Components for Pharmacological and Health-Promoting Abilities

The Glycyrrhiza genus, generally well-known as licorice, is broadly used for food and medicinal purposes around the globe. The genus encompasses a rich pool of bioactive molecules including triterpene saponins (e.g., glycyrrhizin) and flavonoids (e.g., liquiritigenin, liquiritin). This genus is being increasingly exploited for its biological effects such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and cytotoxic activities. The species Glycyrrhiza glabra L. and the compound glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid) have been studied immensely for their effect on humans. The efficacy of the compound has been reported to be significantly higher on viral hepatitis and immune deficiency syndrome. This review provides up-to-date data on the most widely investigated Glycyrrhiza species for food and medicinal purposes, with special emphasis on secondary metabolites' composition and bioactive effects.

Ethnoveterinary botanical survey of medicinal plants used in Pashto, Punjabi and Saraiki communities of Southwest Pakistan

Medicinal plants are highly used in the ethnoveterinary practice as considerable livestock resources in remote areas. The aim of the present study is to explore the ethnoveterinary medicinal practices in three different communities and discuss the cross‐cultural consensus on the usage of medicinal plants for the treatment of animals. The field survey was conducted by the animal healers of the area during the different seasons of plant growth. A total of 83 informants were interviewed through Semi‐structured interview involving experts of traditional knowledge in 21 localities of the three regions (Zhob, D. I. Khan and Mianwali) were conducted. Findings of the study were quantitatively analyzed through the informant consensus factors to identify the homogeneity information provided by the informants. Furthermore, cross‐culture consensuses were analyzed and recorded data were represented in a tabulated and Venn diagrams. In particularly, 59 species of plants were documented in the comparative analysis. Among them, 32 plant species were recorded in Pashto community, while Punjabi and Sarakai communities exhibited nine and four plant species, respectively. Whereas cross‐cultural analysis showed 14 medicinal plants that were commonly utilized by three different ethnic communities, that indicated low interregional consensus in regard to ethnoveterinary practices of medicinal plants. The current study showed that different communities and ethnic groups sharing some traditional knowledge and cross‐culturally approaches have been reported from traditional uses of plants against livestock's diseases. Therefore, current findings are the opportunities to scrutinize the plants for the discovery of new drug sources for humans and animals.

An Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Mersin (Turkey)

This comprehensive ethnobotanical study carried out in Mersin province, which is located in the southern part of Anatolia, east of the Mediterranean Sea, compiles details on plants used in folk medicine and ethnopharmacological information obtained through face-to-face interviews. The aim was to collect and identify plants used for therapeutic purposes by local people and to record information on traditional herbal medicine. Plant specimens were collected in numerous excursions. Additionally, informant consensus factor and use value (UV) were calculated for information gathered. This study identifies 93 plant taxa belonging to 43 families and records their usage in folk medicine; 83 taxa are wild and the remaining 10 are cultivated. The most commonly used plants belong to Lamiaceae, representing 15.0% of the total, while the Rosaceae, Malvaceae, Hypericaceae, Asteraceae and Cupressaceae families each represented another 5.4%. As a result of this investigation, we determine 189 medicinal usages of 93 taxa. The UV values indicate that the most important medicine plants are Hypericum perforatum (0.80), Cedrus libani (0.78), Quercus coccifera (0.77), Arum dioscoridis (0.76) and Juniperus drupaceae (0.74). We observed that most of the drugs are prepared using the infusion method (27.6%). As a conclusion, the study finds that traditional folk medicine usage is still common, especially among the rural population of Mersin.

The Doctrine of Signatures in Israel-Revision and Spatiotemporal Patterns

The present survey includes forty-three plant species with present-day medicinal applications that can be related to the Doctrine of Signatures (DoS). The main uses are for jaundice (33.3%), kidney stones (20%), and as an aphrodisiac (8%). Ten Doctrine of Signature uses (22.2%) are endemic (to Israel and Jordan); while none of these plant species are endemic to the region at all, their DoS uses are endemic. Summing up of all these data reveals that 73.2% of all uses found in present-day Israel could be considered as related to Muslim traditional medicine. About one quarter (24.4%) of the DoS uses are also common to Europe, and some (8.8%) to India. The two adventive species with DoS uses serve as evidence that the DoS practice is not necessarily based solely on its historical background but is still evolving locally in accordance with changes in the local flora. The current broad geographic distribution of many of the doctrine's uses may serve as indirect evidence of its current prevalence, and not just as a vestigial presentation of ancient beliefs.

A microbotanical and microwear perspective to plant processing activities and foodways at Neolithic Çatalhöyük

Çatalhöyük is a renowned archaeological site in central Anatolia, best known for its Neolithic occupation dated from 7100 to 6000 cal BC. The site received worldwide attention early on for its large size, well-preserved mudbrick architecture, and elaborate wall paintings. Excavations at the site over almost three decades have unearthed rich archaeobotanical remains and a diverse ground stone assemblage produced by what once was a vibrant farming community. The study presented here adds to our understanding of crops and plant processing at Çatalhöyük by integrating phytoliths and starch analyses on grinding implements found at three domestic contexts attributed to the Middle (6700-6500 cal BC) and Late (6500-6300 cal BC) period of occupation. Our results reveal a rich microbotanical assemblage that testifies the use of a wide range of geophytes and wild seasonal resources previously unknown at the site. Moreover, by comparing results from the microbotanical proxies and microscopic wear patterns on artefacts, we are also able to discern various plant processing practices the analysed artefacts were employed for. In sum, this work further expands our understanding of plants and crop processing activities performed by the inhabitants of Neolithic Çatalhöyük.

Plants used against obesity in Turkish folk medicine: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Obesity is one of the growing public health problems in Turkey, as well as all over the world, threatening people of almost all ages. Turkey has a large potential for research on this topic due to owning broad ethnomedicinal experience and the richest flora (34% endemic) of Europe and the Middle East. Herbs that they have utilized for centuries to treat and prevent obesity can provide useful options to overcome this issue.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This survey was carried out to disclose the inventory of plant taxa that the people of Turkey have been using for a few centuries in treating obesity without any side effects or complications, and to compare them with experimental studies in the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research was achieved in two phases on the matter above by using electronic databases, such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, ProQuest, Medline, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, HighWire Press, PubMed and Google Scholar. Both results were shown in separate tables as well as the regional comparative analysis.

RESULTS

117 herbal taxa belonging to 45 families were identified among the selected 74 studies conducted in the seven regions of Turkey. However, only 49 (41.9%) of them were found to be subjected to worldwide in vitro and in vivo research conducted on anti-obesity activity. Quercetin (9.1%), gallic acid (6.1%) and ferulic acid and epigallocatechin gallate (4.5%) have been recorded as the most common active ingredients among the 66 active substances identified. Prunus avium (32.4%) and Rosmarinus officinalis (25.7%) were identified as the most common plants used in Turkey. Also, Portulaca oleracea and Brassica oleracea emerged as the most investigated taxa in the literature.

CONCLUSION

This is the first country-wide ethnomedical review conducted on obesity treatment with plants in Turkey. Evaluating the results of the experimental anti-obesity research conducted in the recent years in the literature, it was determined that forty-nine plants were verified. This clearly shows that these herbs have a high potential to be a pharmacological resource. Moreover, 68 (41.9%) taxa, which haven't been investigated yet, are likely to be a promising resource for national and international pharmacological researchers in terms of new natural medicine searches.

A Comparison Study on Traditional Mixtures of Herbal Teas Used in Eastern Mediterranean Area

Multipurpose herbal teas with numerous ingredients, in which flowers are the main component, are common in the traditional medicine and pharmacy of Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean countries. In this study, we combine ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology field work techniques and botany and pharmacognosy laboratory methods for the study of traditional herbal mixtures with flowers, we identify their botanical ingredients and record the local medicinal uses of these mixtures, in Greece, Lebanon, Syria, Iran and Turkey. These, and their industrial versions, are analyzed, using morphological and multivariate analysis techniques in order to determine marker species, relevant patterns of combination and local styles. The medicinal properties attributed to the different flowers are discussed in relation with their role in the mixtures. These blends are consumed for their relaxing, digestive, and anti-infective properties. These mixtures are not consumed as a treatment when one is sick but rather to avoid getting sick, as a preventive measure. The formulations can reach forty ingredients (sarantha in Greek, arbain in Arabic language of Palestine), usually entire or coarsely chopped in the more traditional formulations, leading to extreme variability of individual doses. We ask what biological signification this randomness can have. To give an answer requires new and more comprehensive pharmacological approaches. The flowers of Rosaceae, Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae and Fabaceae species characterize these mixtures in which other materials (roots, leaves, and fruits) and other species are present as well. Flowers of some species, particularly of Fabaceae, are exclusively used in mixtures, and their use in monospecific herbal teas is not yet recorded. We draw attention on the urgent need in exhaustively recording in Greece and the Near East, the formulation and use of traditional herbal mixtures and their numerous local variants. To consider these mixtures and the contribution of flowers (most mixtures receive the general name of tea of flowers) merits further extensive study.

Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Activities of the Ethanolic Extract of Daphne sericea Vahl Flowering Aerial Parts Collected in Central Italy

In this paper, the first phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic extract of Daphne sericea Vahl flowering aerial parts collected in Italy and its biological activities were reported. Eleven compounds were identified i.e., α-linolenic acid (1), tri-linoleoyl-sn-glycerol (2), pheophorbide a ethyl ester (3), pilloin (4), sinensetin (5), yuanhuanin (6), rutamontine (7), syringin (8), p-coumaric acid (9), p-anisic acid (10) and caffeic acid (11). To the best of our knowledge, compounds (1-4, 7-8 and 10) were isolated from D. sericea for the first time during this work, whereas sinensetin (5) represents a newly identified component of the entire Thymelaeaceae family. The extract was found to possess radical scavenging against both DPPH^• and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-thylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS^•+) radicals, with at least a 40-fold higher potency against the latter. Moreover, chelating abilities against both ferrous and ferric ions have been highlighted, thus suggesting a possible indirect antioxidant power of the extract. Although the precise bioactive compounds remain to be discovered, the polyphenolic constituents, including phenolic acids, tannins and flavonoids, seem to contribute to the antioxidant power of the phytocomplex. In addition, the extract produced cytotoxic effects in MDA-MB-231 and U87-MG cancer cell lines, especially at the concentration of 625 μg/mL and after 48–72 h. Further studies are required to clarify the contribution of the identified compounds in the bioactivities of the extract and to support possible future applications.

A Systematic Review of Plants With Antibacterial Activities: A Taxonomic and Phylogenetic Perspective

Background: Antimicrobial resistance represents a serious threat to human health across the globe. The cost of bringing a new antibiotic from discovery to market is high and return on investment is low. Furthermore, the development of new antibiotics has slowed dramatically since the 1950s' golden age of discovery. Plants produce a variety of bioactive secondary metabolites that could be used to fuel the future discovery pipeline. While many studies have focused on specific aspects of plants and plant natural products with antibacterial properties, a comprehensive review of the antibacterial potential of plants has never before been attempted. Objectives: This systematic review aims to evaluate reports on plants with significant antibacterial activities. Methods: Following the PRISMA model, we searched three electronic databases: Web of Science, PubMed and SciFinder by using specific keywords: "plant," "antibacterial," "inhibitory concentration." Results: We identified a total of 6,083 articles published between 1946 and 2019 and then reviewed 66% of these (4,024) focusing on articles published between 2012 and 2019. A rigorous selection process was implemented using clear inclusion and exclusion criteria, yielding data on 958 plant species derived from 483 scientific articles. Antibacterial activity is found in 51 of 79 vascular plant orders throughout the phylogenetic tree. Most are reported within eudicots, with the bulk of species being asterids. Antibacterial activity is not prominent in monocotyledons. Phylogenetic distribution strongly supports the concept of chemical evolution across plant clades, especially in more derived eudicot families. The Lamiaceae, Fabaceae and Asteraceae were the most represented plant families, while Cinnamomum verum, Rosmarinus vulgaris and Thymus vulgaris were the most studied species. South Africa was the most represented site of plant collection. Crude extraction in methanol was the most represented type of extraction and leaves were the main plant tissue investigated. Finally, Staphylococcus aureus was the most targeted pathogenic bacteria in these studies. We closely examine 70 prominent medicinal plant species from the 15 families most studied in the literature. Conclusion: This review depicts the current state of knowledge regarding antibacterials from plants and provides powerful recommendations for future research directions.

Citrus species: A Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

The Citrus species from family Rutaceae has worldwide applications such as cardiovascular and gastrointestinal problems. Phytochemical investigations have shown that these plants have constituents including flavonoids, limonoids and carotenoids. There are many reports on a wide range of activities such as antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, immunomodulatory, metabolic, cardiovascular and neuroprotective effects. In the current review, we discuss information regarding botany, phytochemistry, ethnobotany uses, traditional knowledge and pharmacological aspects of the Citrus species.

Investigations on the anti-ulcerogenic activity of Sideritis caesarea H. Duman, Aytaç & Başer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aerial parts of Sideritis caesarea H. Duman, Aytaç & Başer are used for complaints such as stomach-aches, and intestinal spasms as traditional medicine in Kayseri, Turkey.

AIM OF STUDY

To investigate the anti-ulcerogenic activity by using bioassay guided fractionation technique (BAGF) and to identify the compound(s) that are responsible for anti-ulcerogenic activity through ethanol-induced anti-ulcerogenic activity model in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Liquid-liquid partition and then different chromatographic techniques were utilized for the BAGF of the ethanol (80%) extract of the aerial parts of Sideritis caesarea. Ethanol-induced gastric ulcer method on rats was employed for the determination of the anti-ulcerogenic activity, and the ulcer index was also calculated for anti-ulcerogenic activity detection.

RESULTS

The ethanol (80%) extract of S. caesarea showed statistically potent anti-ulcerogenic activity (95.9% ulcer inhibition, p < 0.001). Among the liquid-liquid fractions, strongest anti-ulcerogenic activity was observed with the ethyl acetate fraction (91.4% inhibition, p < 0.001) and therefore BAGF studies were proceeded with the ethyl acetate fraction. Two anti-ulcerogenic flavonoids {4'-O-methylhypolaetin-7-O-[6‴-O-acetyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→2)]-6″-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranoside and isoscutellarein-7-O-[6‴-O-acetyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→2)]-6″-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranoside} were isolated from this fraction together with a sesquiterpene glycoside [(2E,6E)-2,6,10-trimethyl-2,6,11-dodecatriene-1,10-diol-1-O-β-D-glucopyranoside] and two additional flavonoids {4'-O-methylhypolaetin-7-O-[6‴-O-acetyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→2)]-β-D-glucopyranoside and isoscutellarein-7-O-[6‴-O-acetyl-β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→2)]-β-D-glucopyranoside}.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional use of S. caesarea in the treatment of stomach-aches was supported by this study and four flavonoids were isolated by using BAGF method and two of them were determined to have significant anti-ulcerogenic activity. Additionally, (2E,6E)-2,6,10-trimethyl-2,6,11-dodecatriene-1,10-diol-1-O-β-D-glucopyranoside was obtained from a Sideritis genus for the first time.

The protective effect of Ferula elaeochytris on age-related erectile dysfunction

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ferula elaeochytris Korovin (FE) is a perennial medicinal plant of Apiaceae family. Ferula elaeochytris Korovin, known as 'Çakşır' in Anatolia, is widely used as an aphrodisiac as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a serious public health problem that has a high prevalence and negatively affects the quality of life in elderly men. In the treatment and prophylaxis of many diseases, because of widely increasing use of plant extracts as therapeutic agents, preclinical studies related to plant extracts are becoming more important by the day. In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effect of Ferula elaeochytris Korovin (FE) root extract on age-related ED.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-two male Wistar albino rats were equally divided into four groups: 4-month aged rats (Y), 24-month aged rats (AG), and FE-administered (20 and 40 mg/kg/day; oral gavage; over 8 weeks) 24-month aged rats (AG + FE). The measurements included: changes in smooth muscle cells and collagen fibrils, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), penile neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression, serum testosterone concentrations (ST), neurogenic- and endothelial-dependent relaxations of the corpus cavernosum (CC), intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure (ICP/MAP), area under the curve (total ICP), total antioxidant status (TAS), and total oxidant status (TOS) on corpus cavernosal tissue.

RESULTS

These results have an important role in the development of ED. ICP/MAP, total ICP, eNOS/nNOS expressions and ST levels increased in AG+40 mg FE group compared to the AG group, whereas TNF-α levels decreased and oxidative and antioxidant parameters balanced.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that FE may have a useful effect on decelerating the development of age-related ED.

Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Activity of Alchemilla persica Rothm. in Mice with Diabetes Induced by Alloxan

OBJECTIVES

Alchemilla species are used in Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of many diseases together with diabetes. Alchemilla persica, belonging to this genus, is widely distributed in Eastern Anatolia as well as in Caucasia, northern and northeastern Iran, and northern Iraq.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methanolic-water extracts of the aerial parts and roots of A. persica were evaluated for their hypoglycemic activities in mice with alloxan-induced diabetes in order to verify its usage in folk medicine.

RESULTS

None of the tested extracts exhibited a significant lowering effect on blood glucose levels. However, the aerial parts notably increased blood glucose levels at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg.

CONCLUSION

A. persica usage as an antidiabetic is not confirmed in the present study.

Garlic and onions: An eastern tale

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Garlic and its wild relatives have a long tradition of use world-wide dating back to the early ages as food and medicine. This exceptional group deserves to be taken into consideration to rethink its potential health effects in light of its cultural and historical background, as well as ethnobotanical practices.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Garlic, onion, and other related vegetables have been indispensable for Turkish daily life. This review focuses on the wild, as well as cultivated, Allium species from the broad historical perspective of Turkish culture. Its goal is also analyze how food and medicine have been perceived as closely connected entities in a specific cultural sphere.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature survey was conducted on these species by referencing scientific databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, Elsevier E-Book, Scopus, ISI-Web of Science, and E book Central (Ebrary).

RESULTS

The integration of historical and ethnobotanical data have enabled us to understand the unique position of Alliums in a specific human geography. Garlic and onions have been used in this region as food and for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The perceived health benefits of consuming garlic and onions are well documented in the literature. There are more than 200 Allium species naturally distributed in Turkey, and around 30 of those have been widely used for various purposes by local people as a vegetable, spice, condiment, and medicine.

CONCLUSIONS

The desire for good health and wellness has been traced across many cultures throughout history. Healthy foods like garlic were and will be a critical component of maintaining good health.

Natural resources used as folk cosmeceuticals among rural communities in Vhembe district municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa

BACKGROUND

Skin-related diseases affect every individual irrespective of age, gender or social status. Since time immemorial, humans have explored natural resources from their environment for the maintenance of the skin. This explorative survey was conducted to document the natural resources (plant and non-plant materials) used for folk cosmeceuticals by rural communities in Vhembe district municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa.

METHODS

The research was conducted in six communities namely: Tshakuma, Shigalo, Tshamutilikwa, Luvhimbi (Masikhwa), Khakhanwa, and Folovhodwe in Vhembe district. Random and convenient sampling was used to access the target population. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to interview 71 participants that comprised traditional practitioners, herbalists and laypeople from the study area. Collected data were analysed using both quantitative (for e.g. frequency, use-value and relative frequency of citation) and qualitative (thematic) analytical methods.

RESULTS

A total of 52 plants from 27 families and 22 non-plant materials were used as folk cosmeceuticals in the study area. The most cited plants included Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Pedaliaceae), Ricinus communis (Euphorbiaceae) and Helinus integrifolius (Rhamnaceae). Trees and shrubs were the most common plant-life form while leaves were the most popular plant part. Pig fats, red ochre (Luvhundi soil) and ashes were the most cited non-plant materials. These documented natural resources are frequently prepared by crushing and mostly used to heal wounds.

CONCLUSION

Traditional knowledge concerning folk cosmeceuticals is mostly held by elders. The high number of natural resources documented is an indication that Vhembe district is rich in ethnopharmacological knowledge. Scientific investigation of the efficacies and safety of these natural resources is highly recommended as a drive aimed at innovations with benefits to the rural communities who are the custodians of this valuable knowledge.

Phytochemical screening and evaluation of the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of Ferula caspica M. Bieb. extracts

Chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts from the aerial parts of Ferula caspica M. Bieb. were tested for their antioxidant capacities by CUPRAC, ABTS, FRAP, Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods and for antimicrobial activities by the broth microdilution method. Chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts showed the highest antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity. Three known sesquiterpene derivatives; 1-(2',4'-dihydroxyphenyl)-3,7,11-trimethyl-3-vinyl-6(E),10-dodecadien-1-one (1), 2,3-dihydro-7-hydroxy-2,3-dimethyl-2-[4',8'-dimethyl-3',7'-nonadienyl]-furo[3,2,c]coumarin (2), 2,3-dihydro-7-hydroxy-2,3-dimethyl-3-[4',8'-dimethyl-3',7'-nonadienyl]-furo[3,2,c]coumarin(3); phenylpropanoid; laserine/2-epilaserine (4/5) and steroid mixtures; stigmasterol and β-sitosterol (6/7) were isolated from chloroform extract; three known flavonoids; kaempferol-3-O-β-glucopyranoside (8), kaempferol-3-O-α-rhamnopyranoside (9), quercetin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside (10), and one benzoic acid derivative; 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (11) were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods.

A comprehensive appraisal on Crocus chrysanthus (Herb.) Herb. flower extracts with HPLC-MS/MS profiles, antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties

In the quest for new drugs of herbal origin, the ethyl acetate (EAE), methanol (ME), and water (WE) extracts of Crocus chrysanthus (Herb.) Herb. flowers were analyzed for their polyphenolic composition, antioxidant, and enzyme inhibitory potential. WE showed the highest antioxidant activities in all assays including metal chelating, phosphomolybdenum, FRAP, CUPRAC, ABTS and DPPH. EAE was the most effective enzyme inhibitor, exhibiting the highest inhibition against some enzymes linked to Alzheimer's disease (cholinesterases), diabetes mellitus (α-glucosidase and α-amylase) and hyperpigmentation problems (tyrosinase). The highest total phenolics (34.99 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids content (77.58 mg RE/g) were observed in WE and ME, respectively. Eight compounds were identified in EAE, 24 in ME, and 15 in WE. Kaempferol 3-O glucoside was found in all extracts. In conclusion, C. chrysanthus flowers can be suggested as a source of bioactive components with potential use against chronic disorders caused by oxidative stress. Future in-depth studies are recommended to determine the biological effects of isolated compounds from C. chrysanthus to identify the main compounds modulating the observed activities.

The new paradigm for androgenetic alopecia and plant-based folk remedies: 5α-reductase inhibition, reversal of secondary microinflammation and improving insulin resistance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Research in the past half a century has gradually sketched the biological mechanism leading to androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Until recently the aetiological paradigm has been too limited to enable intelligent commentary on the use of folk remedies to treat or reduce the expression of this condition. However, our understanding is now at a point where we can describe how some folk remedies work, predict how effective they will be or why they fail.

RESULTS

The new paradigm of AGA is that inheritance and androgens (dihydrotestosterone) are the primary contributors and a secondary pathology, microinflammation, reinforces the process at more advanced stages of follicular miniaturisation. The main protagonist to microinflammation is believed to be microbial or Demodex over-colonisation of the infundibulum of the pilosebaceous unit, which can be ameliorated by antimicrobial/acaricidal or anti-inflammatory therapies that are used as adjuvants to androgen dependent treatments (either synthetic or natural). Furthermore, studies reveal that suboptimal androgen metabolism occurs in both AGA and insulin resistance (low SHBG or high DHT), suggesting comorbidity. Both can be ameliorated by dietary phytochemicals, such as specific classes of phenols (isoflavones, phenolic methoxy abietanes, hydroxylated anthraquinones) or polycyclic triterpenes (sterols, lupanes), by dual inhibition of key enzymes in AGA (5α-reductase) and insulin resistance (ie., DPP-4 or PTP1B) or agonism of nuclear receptors (PPARγ). Evidence strongly indicates that some plant-based folk remedies can ameliorate both primary and secondary aetiological factors in AGA and improve insulin resistance, or act merely as successful adjuvants to mainstream androgen dependent therapies.

CONCLUSION

Thus, if AGA is viewed as an outcome of primary and secondary factors, then it is better that a 'multimodal' or 'umbrella' approach, to achieve cessation and/or reversal, is put into practice, using complementation of chemical species (isoflavones, anthraquinones, procyanidins, triterpenes, saponins and hydrogen sulphide prodrugs), thereby targeting multiple 'factors'.

A review on the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Alpinia officinarum Hance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Alpinia officinarum Hance is a perennial plant that has been traditionally used for many decades to treat several ailments including inflammation, pain, stomach-ache, cold, amongst others. Pharmacological studies over the years have demonstrated remarkable bioactivities that could be further explored for development of new therapeutic agents against various ailments.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The paper critically reviewed the ethno-medicinal uses, pharmacology, and phytochemistry of A. officinarum.

METHODS

Keywords including A. officinarum and its synonyms were searched using electronic databases including ISI web of knowledge, Science direct, Scopus, PubMed, Google scholar and relevant database for Masters and Doctoral theses.

RESULTS

A. officinarum is prepared in Asia, Turkey, Morocco and Iran as a decoction, infusion or juice as a single preparation or in combination with other herbs, food or drinks for the treatment of general health problems including cold, inflammation, digestive disorders, etc. Pharmacological studies revealed the potent in vitro and in vivo bioactivities of various parts of A. officinarum that include anti-inflammatory, cytotoxicity, homeostasis, lipid regulation, antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial, antiosteoporosis, etc. Over 90 phytochemical constituents have been identified and isolated from A. officinarum comprising vastly of phenolic compounds especially diarylheptanoids isolated from the rhizome and considered the most active bioactive components.

CONCLUSION

In vitro and in vivo studies have confirmed the potency of A. officinarum. However, further studies are required to establish the mechanisms mediating its bioactivities in relation to the medicinal uses as well as investigating any potential toxicity for future clinical studies.

Isolation of eudesmane type sesquiterpene ketone from Prangos heyniae H.Duman & M.F.Watson essential oil and mosquitocidal activity of the essential oils

In the present work, an endemic species Prangos heyniae collected in four locations from Turkey was subjected to hydrodistillation in Clevenger type apparatus to obtain the essential oils (EO1-4). The gas-chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and gas-chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC/FID) analyses showed that the EOs were rich in sesquiterpenes, germacrene D (10.3-12.1%), β-bisabolene (14.4%), kessane (26.9%), germacrene B (8.2%), elemol (3.4-46.9%), β-bisabolenal (1.4-70.7%), β-bisabolenol (8.4%) and an eudesmane type sesquiterpene (1) (16.1%) with [M+218]. This unidentified compound (1) was isolated in a rapid one-step manner with >95.0% purity using Preparative Capillary Gas Chromatography (PCGC) with an HP Innowax column connected to a Preparative Fraction Collector (PFC) system. Structure determination was accomplished from 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopic data which determined a new eudesmane type sesquiterpene, 3,7(11)-eudesmadien-2-one (1). Using a biting deterrent bioassay, the mean proportion not biting (PNB) values of the P. heyniae EO1-4 were 0.88 for EO1 and 0.80 for EO2 which were similar to the positive control DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide). The EO3 and EO4 had lower PNB values of 0.64 and 0.44, respectively. P. heyniae EO1-4 showed good larvicidal activity at 125 and 62.5 ppm whereas EO1-3 were slightly less effective at the dose of 31.25 ppm and EO4 was not active at 31.25 ppm against 1st instar Aedes aegypti.

Quantitative Ethnobotany of Medicinal Plants Used by Indigenous Communities in the Bandarban District of Bangladesh

This study documents information on significant ethnomedicinal plants, which was collected from the traditional healers of three indigenous communities of Bangladesh. The documented data were quantitatively analyzed for the first time in this area. The information was obtained through open-ended, semi-structured questionnaires. The benefits, importance and coverage of ethnomedicine were expressed through several quantitative indices including Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Use Value (UV), Frequency of Citation (FC), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Relative Importance Index (RI). The agreement of homogeneity between the present and previous studies and among the indigenous communities was evaluated using the Jaccard Index (JI). A total of 159 ethnomedicinal plant species, which were distributed in 132 genera under 62 families, were documented from 174 informants. Of these, 128 plants were native and 31 were exotic. Of a majority of documented species, herbs and leaves were the most utilized plant parts for the preparation of ethnomedicines (45.28%) whereas pastes (63.03%) were the most popular formulations. Among the documented species, the dominant families were the Asteraceae (14 species) and the Lamiaceae (12 species). The highest ICF value was 0.77 for digestive system disorders. Based on UVs, the five most commonly used ethnomedicinal plant species in the study area were Duabanga grandiflora (0.43), Zingiber officinale (0.41), Congea tomentosa (0.40), Matricaria chamomilla (0.33) and Engelhardtia spicata (0.28). The highest RFC was recorded for Rauvolfia serpentina (0.25). The highest RI value was calculated for both Scoparia dulcis and Leucas aspera (0.83). Importantly, 16 species were reported with new therapeutic uses and to our knowledge, 7 species described herein have never been ethnobotanically and pharmacologically studied, viz: Agastache urticifolia, Asarum cordifolium, C. tomentosa, E. spicata, Hypserpa nitida, Merremia vitifolia and Smilax odoratissima. The present study showed that traditional treatment using medicinal plants is still widespread in the study area. Documentation of new ethnomedicinal species with their therapeutic uses shall promote further phytochemical and pharmacological investigations and possibly, lead to the development of new drugs.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants in northeastern of Algeria

BACKGROUND

In order to document medicinal uses of plants in the northeastern of Algeria, preserve traditional heritage and highlighted the risks of excessive human exploitation on flora and biodiversity of the region, an inventory of medicinal species existed in the traditional pharmacopoeia in Skikda region (north-east of Algeria) was made. The survey was carried out during the year (2015-2016), through face to face interviews, using pre-prepared questionnaire. The form contains: sociodemorgaphic profile of each respondent (sex, age, educational level and monthly income), local name of medicinal species used, uses, used parts and methods of preparations.

RESULTS

A total of 90 species belonging to 42 botanical families, were listed. The analysis of the obtained results showed that the frequency of use of medicinal plants is related to the age, sex, educational level and monthly income of our respondents. It was recorded that the majority of remedies are prepared in the form of a decoctate from the leaves of the different species, in order to treat a wide range of diseases especially those of the digestive tract.

CONCLUSION

Local population has a rich indigenous knowledge, but is always stays not adequately documented. It should be noted that some listed species are suffering from surexploitation which can subjects to the disappearance of the most vulnerable species. It will be urgent and essential to adopt a sustainable management strategy to avoid the degradation of biodiversity of the region.

Ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal plants used in Daraa-Tafilalet region (Province of Errachidia), Morocco

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

We carried out an ethnobotanical survey in Tafilalet region. This region is classified by the UNESCO as a reserve of biosphere and represents an important area with important knowledge of traditional medicine, especially the use of medicinal plants for human healthcare. Furthermore, the geographic location of this region makes this site a diverse and interesting resource of herbal biodiversity.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aimed to collect information about medicinal plants used in Tafilalet region as well as the indigenous knowledge related to the use of this natural resource in healthcare by the local population in order to preserve and protect this invaluable inheritance from loss and overlook. We aimed also to compare taxa used by the indigenous people of Tafilalet for health-care purposes in comparison with other regions of Morocco as well as neighboring countries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The total of informants interviewed in this study was 1616 (1500 were local inhabitants and 116 were herbalists). This enquiry was carried out through semi-structured and unstructured interviews and the sampling technique used was the stratified sample (9 stratums). Data obtained were analyzed calculating 6 indices: Use Value (UV), Family Use Value (FUV), Fidelity Level (FL), Rank Order Priority (ROP), Informant Consensus Factor (Fic) and Jaccard similarity Index (JI).

RESULTS

194 species belonging to 69 families were inventoried in this survey and 17 species were cited for the first time in an ethnobotanical survey in Morocco. The highest value of UV was obtained for Rosmarinus officinalis L. (UV=0.24) and Liliaceae was the family frequently used by inhabitants of Tafilalet (FUV=0.106). In addition, the highest value of FL was recorded for Cistus salviifolius L. and Daphne gnidium L. with FL value of 100% for both species and Origanium vulgare L. had the highest ROP with a value of 53% while the highest value of FIC was mentioned for digestive system disorders (FIC=0.29). Concerning the level of similarity between our study and other regions of Morocco, the province of Tata seems to be the most similar to Tafilalet (JI=42.97), while M'sila (Algeria) was the most similar to Tafilalet among areas in neighboring countries (JI=13.00).

CONCLUSION

Despite the richness which characterizes Tafilalet regarding diversity and effectiveness of medicinal plants as well as the largest culture and knowledge related to the popular phytotherapy among local people in this region, several procedures must be realized to protect and to valorize this interesting inheritance.

Ethnobotanical investigations on plants used in folk medicine in the regions of Constantine and Mila (North-East of Algeria)

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Constantine and Mila regions have been investigated in an ethnobotanical study for the first time. A total of 102 medicinal plants have been cited to treat human ailments. Twenty-eight new species of 31 common plants with 151 new therapeutic applications and 12 new cited species including one endemic specie Zygophyllum cornutum Coss were found as compared to other Algerian regions. In addition, to the best of our knowledge, 369 new medicinal uses of 75 known plants, were reported for the first time in the Mediterranean basin.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is aimed at contributing to safeguard world cultural heritage and document ethnomedicinal uses of plants in Algeria and the Mediterranean basin; data on the national and global uses in the world were obtained to extract new potential species for further phytochemical and clinical investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The survey was carried out in two cities in the northeast of Algeria: Constantine and Mila. It was based on semi-structured interviews of 79 local informants. Data were analyzed using quantitative indices, namely, informant consensus factor, fidelity level (FL), use value (UV), and relative frequency citation (RFC), to evaluate the reliability and richness of herbal knowledge in the region.

RESULTS

The interviewed persons used 102 plant species belonging to 90 genera and distributed among 53 families, represented mainly by Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, and Asteraceae (30%, 13%, and 10%, respectively), which were used to treat 14 ailment categories. The category of most frequent ailments (16%) was digestive disorders (diarrhea, constipation, and stomach bloating). The highest RFC was found for Origanum glandulosum Desf. With regard to the fidelity level, a higher FL was found for Tilia cordata Mill. (100%), followed by Artemisia herba alba Asso. with an FL of 95.74% and Punica granatum L. with an FL of 93.09%) to treat gastrointestinal system diseases, and Aloe sp. L. with an FL of 96.67% for skin diseases. The highest UV was found for Origanum glandulosum Desf. (2.280). Moreover, new medicinal uses were recorded for the first time in Algeria and Mediterranean regions.

CONCLUSION

The present study has highlighted the rich herbal knowledge about newfound medicinal plants and their new uses in the Mediterranean region, which could be useful not only in facilitating other studies such as phytochemical and pharmacological investigations and upgrading the sources of biomolecules beneficial to people but also in reopening discussion on pharmacovigilance in herbal medicine as an imperative requirement for local authorities.

Evaluation of hepatoprotective and antidiabetic activity of Alchemilla mollis

Alchemilla mollis (Buser) Rothm aerial part and root methanolic-water extracts were evaluated for their hepatoprotective activity on carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity and hypoglycemic activity on alloxan-induced diabetic mice. None of the tested extracts exhibited effects on blood glucose levels. However hepatoprotective activity results have revealed that serum ALT levels were significantly lowered by both the aerial part and root extracts at doses of 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg. Histopathological examination showed that A. mollis aerial parts and roots induced significant recovery from cellular damage; when compared to the carbon tetrachloride group, the most significant activity was observed with A. mollis aerial part extracts at a dose of 200mg/kg. There is evidence of a hepatoprotective activity of A. mollis on the phenolic content of the plant, especially in the case of flavonoids, which have potent antioxidant properties.

Contributions to the phytotherapies of digestive disorders: Traditional knowledge and cultural drivers of Manoor Valley, Northern Pakistan

ETHNO PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ethno medicinal traditional knowledge regarding the uses of indigenous medicinal plants used for various human digestive disorders are mostly known to the elder community members. As the young generation is not much aware about such vital traditional medicinal practice because they rely on elders.

AIM OF STUDY

To document, accumulate and widely disseminate the massive indigenous knowledge of century's practiced therapeutic uses of medicinal plants by the local people living in this remote area.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 63 local inhabitants (39 males and 24 females) were interviewed through a structured questionnaire. The data obtained were quantitatively analyzed through the use value (UV_i), fidelity level index (FL%) and relative frequency citations (RFCs), consensus index (CI%) and informant consensus factor (F_IC). For novel uses all the plants were checked with previously published articles on same disease by analyzing through Jaccard index (JI) and Sorensen's similarity index (QS). Plants specimen were preserved, mounted and labeled on the herbarium sheets, cataloged and deposited with voucher numbers in Hazara University Herbarium, Mansehra, Pakistan (HUP).

RESULTS

44 plant species belonging to 44 genera and 28 families were documented in the current study. These medicinal plant species were used commonly as an ethno medicine against 26 various digestive disorders out of which most frequently occurred are; stomach ache, diarrhea, indigestion, constipation and inflammation etc. Herbaceous plant species were the dominant among plants studied which were 64% of the total plants, followed by trees (20%) and shrubs (16%). Lamiaceae was the leading family among collected medicinal plant species (13.6%). Maximum medicinal plant species were used for treatment of stomach ache (11.7%), diarrhea and indigestion (10.9% each). Most widely used parts were leaves (41% citations), fruit and whole plant (12% citations each) for medication of various digestive problems by the traditional drivers. Dominated medicinal plants with most use values were Ficus carica having (UV_i=0.90) and Trifolium repens (UV_i=0.84). Based on the RFC values, the most cited medicinal plant species by the traditional drivers were Ficus carica (0.43) and Berberis lycium (0.41), while most respondents percentage was noticed for same plant species calculated through consensus index (CI%=42.9% and 41.3%) respectively. The medicinal plant species with highest fidelity level was of Grewia optiva, Juglans regia and Sorbaria tomentosa each cited 100% for anthelmintic, easy digestion and Diarrhea respectively. Due to representation by only single medicinal plant taxa (Nt=1), the digestive diseases viz. cholera, colon cancer, emetic, internal injuries, kill microorganisms, Soothing, tumor and urine suppression had maximum F_IC value. The analytical result reveals that 57% of medicinal plant species were reported for the first time regarding their uses. new medicinal uses of Anaphalis contorta, Caltha palustris, Pinus wallichiana, Plantago himalaica were recorded for the first time from Pakistan and Aralia cachemirica, Bupleurum longicaule, Pleurospermum stellatum, Potentilla argentea and Juglans regia across the globe for currently reported medicinal uses. Besides this, all the mentioned plant species were reported for the first time for digestive disorders from Manoor Valley as no single study up-till now has been conducted ethno medicinally.

CONCLUSION

The present study revealed the importance to document and launch list of all the possible plants that are used in traditional medicinal practices against digestive disorders in the unexplored study area and to show the important medicinal plants for future biological, phytochemical and pharmacological experimentation regarding digestive problems.