Sambucus nigra: A traditional medicine effective in reducing inflammation in mice

Sambucus nigra-Lyophilized Fruit Extract Attenuated Acute Redox-Homeostatic Imbalance via Mutagenic and Oxidative Stress Modulation in Mice Model on Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Background: Gentamicin (GM) administration is associated with decreased metabolism, increased oxidative stress, and induction of nephrotoxicity. Sambucus nigra L., containing flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phytosterols, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the nephroprotective and anti-inflammatory potential of lyophilized Sambucus nigra fruit extract (S. nigra extract) to reduce acute oxidative stress and residual toxicity of GM in a 7-day experimental model in Balb/c rodents. Methods: The S. nigra extract was lyophilized (300 rpm; 10 min; -45 °C) to improve pharmacological properties. Balb/c mice were divided into four (n = 6) groups: controls; S. nigra extract per os (120 mg kg-1 day-1 bw); GM (200 mg kg-1 day-1 bw) (4); and GM + S. nigra therapy. The activities of antioxidant and renal enzymes, cytokines, and levels of oxidative stress biomarkers-Hydroxiproline, CysC, GST, KIM-1, PGC-1α, MDA, GSPx-were analyzed by ELISA tests. The ROS and RNS levels, as well as 5-MSL-protein oxidation, were measured by EPR spectroscopy. Results: The antioxidant-protective effect of S. nigra extract (120 mg kg-1) was demonstrated by reduced MDA, ROS, and RNS and increased activation of endogenous enzymes. Furthermore, S. nigra extract significantly reduced the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and KIM-1 and regulated collagen/protein (PGC-1α and albumin) deposition in renal tissues. Conclusions: Histological evaluation confirmed that S. nigra (120 mg kg-1) attenuated renal dysfunction and structural damage by modulating oxidative stress and acute inflammation and could be used as an anti-fibrotic alternative in GM nephrotoxicity.

Are the Effects of Bioactive Components on Human Health a Myth?: Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) from Exotic Fruits

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Black elderberry has come to the fore in recent years due to its health benefits. Black elderberry fruit (Sambucus nigra L.), collected from natural sources, has a rich content of protein, vitamins, antioxidants, unsaturated fatty acids, and minerals as it contains conjugated and free forms of amino acids.

RECENT FINDINGS

Black elderberry can prevent oxidative stress and reduce blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases thanks to the polyphenols it contains. It can prevent diseases, stimulate the immune system, show an antitumor effect, and be effective in the course of disease processes by rising the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione. Since black elderberry is a promising food in terms of bioactive components, it is considered as promising to treat and prevent many diseases. However, it is not correct to prove its beneficial effects on the prevention of chronic diseases and to make generalisations. Therefore, there is a need of more comprehensive evidence-based clinical studies and data. This review examined current evidence and discussions about the health-related effects of black elderberry, which contains many biologically active components such as polyphenols, phenolic acids, flavonols, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins, as well as terpenes and lectins, and offered some suggestions on its use in the future.

Exploring Bioactive Phytomedicines for Advancing Pulmonary Infection Management: Insights and Future Prospects

Pulmonary infections have a profound influence on global mortality rates. Medicinal plants offer a promising approach to address this challenge, providing nontoxic alternatives with higher levels of public acceptance and compliance, particularly in regions where access to conventional medications or diagnostic resources may be limited. Understanding the pathophysiology of viruses and bacteria enables researchers to identify biomarkers essential for triggering diseases. This knowledge allows the discovery of biological molecules capable of either preventing or alleviating symptoms associated with these infections. In this review, medicinal plants that have an effect on COVID-19, influenza A, bacterial and viral pneumonia, and tuberculosis are discussed. Drug delivery has been briefly discussed as well. It examines the effect of bioactive constituents of these plants and synthesizes findings from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies conducted over the past decade. In conclusion, many medicinal plants can be used to treat pulmonary infections, but further in-depth studies are needed as most of the current studies are only at preliminary stages. Extensive investigation and clinical studies are warranted to fully elucidate their mechanisms of action and optimize their use in clinical practice.

Genus Sambucus: Exploring Its Potential as a Functional Food Ingredient with Neuroprotective Properties Mediated by Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms

The genus Sambucus, mainly Sambucus nigra, has emerged as a valuable source of bioactive compounds with potential neuroprotective properties. This review explores the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroregenerative effects of Sambucus-derived compounds and their implications for brain health and cognitive function. In vitro studies have demonstrated the ability of Sambucus extracts to mitigate oxidative stress, modulate inflammatory responses, and promote neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. In vivo studies using animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, have shown that Sambucus compounds can improve cognitive function, motor performance, and neuronal survival while attenuating neuroinflammation and oxidative damage. The neuroprotective effects of Sambucus are primarily attributed to its rich content of polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, which exert their benefits through multiple mechanisms, including the modulation of signaling pathways involved in inflammation, apoptosis, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress. Furthermore, the potential of Sambucus as a functional food ingredient is discussed, highlighting its application in various food products and the challenges associated with the stability and bioavailability of its bioactive compounds. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the neuroprotective potential of Sambucus and its derivatives, offering valuable insights for the development of dietary strategies to promote brain health and prevent age-related cognitive decline.

Natural Product-Derived Phytochemicals for Influenza A Virus (H1N1) Prevention and Treatment

Influenza A (H1N1) viruses are prone to antigenic mutations and are more variable than other influenza viruses. Therefore, they have caused continuous harm to human public health since the pandemic in 2009 and in recent times. Influenza A (H1N1) can be prevented and treated in various ways, such as direct inhibition of the virus and regulation of human immunity. Among antiviral drugs, the use of natural products in treating influenza has a long history, and natural medicine has been widely considered the focus of development programs for new, safe anti-influenza drugs. In this paper, we focus on influenza A (H1N1) and summarize the natural product-derived phytochemicals for influenza A virus (H1N1) prevention and treatment, including marine natural products, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and their derivatives, phenols and their derivatives, polysaccharides, and derivatives of natural products for prevention and treatment of influenza A (H1N1) virus. We further discuss the toxicity and antiviral mechanism against influenza A (H1N1) as well as the druggability of natural products. We hope that this review will facilitate the study of the role of natural products against influenza A (H1N1) activity and provide a promising alternative for further anti-influenza A drug development.

Elderberry Leaves with Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties as a Valuable Plant Material for Wound Healing

Sambuci folium (elderberry leaves) have been used in traditional medicine, mainly externally, to treat skin diseases and wounds. Therefore, the aim of this study was to screen the biological activity of elderberry leaves (antioxidant potential and possibility of inhibition of tyrosinase and hyaluronidase enzymes) combined with phytochemical analysis. For this purpose, a phytochemical analysis was carried out. Elderberry leaves of 12 varieties ("Sampo", "Obelisk", "Dwubarwny", "Haschberg", "Haschberg 1", "Koralowy", "Sambo", "Black Beauty", "Black Tower", "Golden hybrid", "Samyl", "Samyl 1") in two growth stages. The compounds from the selected groups, phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid) and flavonols (quercetin), were chromatographically determined in hydroalcoholic leaf extracts. All tested elderberry leaf extracts showed antioxidant effects, but the most promising potential: very high compounds content (TPC = 61.85 mg GAE/g), antioxidant (e.g., DPPH IC50 = 1.88 mg/mL; CUPRAC IC0.5 = 0.63 mg/mL) and optimal anti-inflammatory (inhibition of hyaluronidase activity 41.28%) activities were indicated for older leaves of the "Sampo" variety. Additionally, the extract obtained from "Sampo" and "Golden hybrid" variety facilitated the treatment of wounds in the scratch test. In summary, the best multidirectional pro-health effect in treating skin inflammation was specified for "Sampo" leaves II extract (leaves during the flowering period); however, wound treatment was noted as rich in chlorogenic acid younger leaf extracts of the "Golden hybrid" variety.

In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory and Antinociceptive Activities of Black Elder (Sambucus nigra L.) Fruit and Flower Extracts

Sambucus nigra L. (S. nigra, SN) or black elder is a traditional medicinal plant widely used worldwide for therapeutic and dietary purposes. The aim of the current study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of black elder fruit and flower extracts (SNFrE and SNFlE, respectively). The primary polyphenol constituents in the flower extract were flavonoids and phenolic acids, while anthocyanins were the main components in the fruit extract. SNFrE revealed pronounced and dose-dependent in vivo anti-inflammatory activity assessed by the cotton pellet-induced granuloma test. Doses of 10, 20, and 50 mg/kg BW of SNFrE reduced the weight of induced granuloma in rats by 20.3%, 20.5%, and 28.4%, respectively. At the highest dose (50 mg/kg BW), SNFrE had significant (p < 0.01) anti-inflammatory activity comparable to that of diclofenac, the reference compound used (10 mg/kg BW). In addition, the in vivo antinociceptive activity of the extracts in mice was estimated using the acetic-acid-induced writhing test. Both extracts at doses of 50 mg/kg BW inhibited the abdominal contractions induced by the acetic acid significantly comparing to the control group (p < 0.01). Our findings indicate that black elder extracts and particularly SNFrE possess anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities, providing experimental evidence for the use of S. nigra in traditional medicine.

Flavonoid-Rich Sambucus nigra Berry Extract Enhances Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway Activation and Exerts Antiulcerative Effects In Vivo

Sambucus nigra (SN) berry extract is characterized by high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of SN berry extract against indomethacin (IND)-induced gastric ulcer in rats and the mechanism involved. SN berry extract alleviated IND-induced gastric ulcers, as shown by assessing pathological manifestations in the gastric mucosa. These protective effects are attributed to attenuated oxidative damage to the gastric mucosa, correlated to increased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), enhanced glutathione (GSH) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and upregulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 cascade. Moreover, oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and total oxidant status (TOS), were downregulated in SN-extract-treated animals. Furthermore, SN berry extract suppressed gastric mucosal inflammation by downregulating interleukin (IL)-33, IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels, and attenuating myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. The protective effects of SN berry extract were similar to those exerted by esomeprazole (ESO), an acid-secretion-suppressive drug. In conclusion, SN berry extract has antiulcerative effects, alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation.

Sambucus nigra L. (fam. Viburnaceae) in Sicily: Distribution, Ecology, Traditional Use and Therapeutic Properties

Sambucus nigra, the elderberry, has long been used for its medicinal properties in treating numerous diseases. Based on this traditional knowledge, its different pharmacological activities have been the focus of active research. All parts of the tree have long been used in traditional medicine, that is, the bark, the leaves, the flowers and the fruit. This study, carried out in Sicily (Italy), concerns the traditional uses of elder against human diseases. In order to trace the history of man's interaction with elder on the island, multidisciplinary research was carried out, aiming at (1) presenting a comprehensive overview of elderberry's applications and activities and (2) bridging traditional knowledge (uses and beliefs) with modern science, i.e., the most recent scientific findings in the biomedical and pharmacological fields. A rigorous literature review of scientific (and other local) reports on the elderberry tree and its application in food, health and household applications was undertaken. This article also provides a synthetic and updated picture of the ecology and distribution of S. nigra in Sicily. The elderberry is quite widespread in Sicily, yet its distribution is discontinuous. It prefers hedges, riparian woodlands, forest margins and clearings and is rather common along the watercourses flowing in the canyons of the Hyblaean Plateau, in the Madonie Mts. and in Enna province. Indeed, many old plants are often found near sacred places and rural houses, suggesting that in the past, it was extensively planted on purpose for its multiple uses. The complementary data obtained from multidisciplinary research confirm the usefulness of this approach in building a comprehensive and correct picture of the distribution of the most common woody species, for which the available knowledge is often fragmentary and imprecise.

Health-Promoting Properties: Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Properties of Sambucus nigra L. Flowers and Fruits

Sambucus nigra L. has been used for centuries in traditional medicine thanks to its valuable healing properties. The healing properties result from its high content of biologically active compounds, mainly antioxidants, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. In our review, we have presented scientific studies evaluating the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of extracts and their components from S. nigra L. flowers and fruits. The results of the research show that the effect of antioxidant phytochemicals contained in their composition reduces the level of free radicals and pro-inflammatory cytokines, prevents mutations that increase the risk of cancer development, and inhibits cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and changes in intracellular signaling, consequently inhibiting the growth of malignant tumors and the formation of metastases. Flowers and fruits of S. nigra L. are a valuable source of nutraceutical and pharmacological substances that can support prevention and anti-inflammatory and oncological therapy without negative side effects for the patient.

Wild-Growing and Conventionally or Organically Cultivated Sambucus nigra Germplasm: Fruit Phytochemical Profile, Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Leaf Elements

European elder or elderberry (Sambucus nigra L., Viburnaceae) is a plant species with known high pharmaceutical and nutritional value. However, the Greek native germplasm of S. nigra has not been adequately utilized to date as in other regions. This study evaluates the fruit antioxidant potential (total phenolic content and radical scavenging activity) of wild-growing and cultivated germplasm of Greek S. nigra. In addition, nine cultivated Greek S. nigra genotypes were evaluated regarding the effects of fertilization (conventional and organic) on fruit phytochemical and physicochemical potential (total flavonoids, ascorbic acid content, pH, total soluble solids, and total acidity), as well as on the antioxidant potential (total phenolic content and radical scavenging activity) of fruits and leaves. Additionally, an analysis of macro- and micro-elements in the leaves of the cultivated germplasm was performed. The results demonstrated comparatively higher total phenolic contents of fruits of cultivated germplasm. The genotype was the decisive factor in the fruits' phytochemical potential and leaves' total phenolic content of cultivated S. nigra germplasm. Similarly, fertilization regime effects were found to be genotype-dependent, affecting fruit phytochemical and physicochemical attributes. The trace element analysis results were similar, with genotypes varying significantly in their concentrations of macro- and micro-elements. The current work builds on previous domestication attempts for Greek S. nigra, providing new data on the phytochemical potential of this important nutraceutical species.

Elderberry Extracts: Characterization of the Polyphenolic Chemical Composition, Quality Consistency, Safety, Adulteration, and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress- and Inflammation-Induced Health Disorders

Elderberry is highly reputed for its health-improving effects. Multiple pieces of evidence indicate that the consumption of berries is linked to enhancing human health and preventing or delaying the onset of chronic medical conditions. Compared with other fruit, elderberry is a very rich source of anthocyanins (approximately 80% of the polyphenol content). These polyphenols are the principals that essentially contribute to the high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities and the health benefits of elderberry fruit extract. These health effects include attenuation of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and inflammatory disorders, as well as anti-diabetic, anticancer, antiviral, and immuno-stimulatory effects. Sales of elderberry supplements skyrocketed to $320 million over the year 2020, according to an American Botanical Council (ABC) report, which is attributable to the purported immune-enhancing effects of elderberry. In the current review, the chemical composition of the polyphenolic content of the European elderberry (Sambucus nigra) and the American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), as well as the analytical techniques employed to analyze, characterize, and ascertain the chemical consistency will be addressed. Further, the factors that influence the consistency of the polyphenolic chemical composition, and hence, the consistency of the health benefits of elderberry extracts will be presented. Additionally, adulteration and safety as factors contributing to consistency will be covered. The role of elderberry in enhancing human health alone with the pharmacological basis, the cellular pathways, and the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed health benefits of elderberry fruit extracts will be also reviewed.

Phytochemical Profiles and Biological Studies of Selected Botanical Dietary Supplements Used in the United States

Based on their current wide bioavailability, botanical dietary supplements have become an important component of the United States healthcare system, although most of these products have limited scientific evidence for their use. The most recent American Botanical Council Market Report estimated for 2020 a 17.3% increase in sales of these products when compared to 2019, for a total sales volume of $11,261 billion. The use of botanical dietary supplements products in the United States is guided by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) from 1994, enacted by the U.S. Congress with the aim of providing more information to consumers and to facilitate access to a larger number of botanical dietary supplements available on the market than previously. Botanical dietary supplements may be formulated for and use only using crude plant samples (e.g., plant parts such as the bark, leaves, or roots) that can be processed by grinding into a dried powder. Plant parts can also be extracted with hot water to form an "herbal tea." Other preparations of botanical dietary supplements include capsules, essential oils, gummies, powders, tablets, and tinctures. Overall, botanical dietary supplements contain bioactive secondary metabolites with diverse chemotypes that typically are found at low concentration levels. These bioactive constituents usually occur in combination with inactive molecules that may induce synergy and potentiation of the effects observed when botanical dietary supplements are taken in their different forms. Most of the botanical dietary supplements available on the U.S. market have been used previously as herbal remedies or as part of traditional medicine systems from around the world. Their prior use in these systems also provides a certain level of assurance in regard to lower toxicity levels. This chapter will focus on the importance and diversity of the chemical features of bioactive secondary metabolites found in botanical dietary supplements that are responsible for their applications. Many of the active principles of botanical dietary substances are phenolics and isoprenoids, but glycosides and some alkaloids are also present. Biological studies on the active constituents of selected botanical dietary supplements will be discussed. Thus, the present chapter should be of interest for both members of the natural products scientific community, who may be performing development studies of the products available, as well as for healthcare professionals who are directly involved in the analysis of botanical interactions and evaluation of the suitability of botanical dietary supplements for human consumption.

Water soluble microparticles of Sambucus nigra L. (elderberry) as a potential herbal medicine

Although traditional use of elderberry flowers is recognized by Medical Agencies, there are not suitable products on the Brazilian market. To overcome poor stability of tinctures of Sambucus nigra flowers, we aimed to develop spray dried microparticles. Statistical experimental design was applied taking inlet temperature and maltodextrin% at five different levels. Next, we applied a stability study for 60 days under accelerated conditions (40 °C/75% RH) and 180 days at room temperature (15-30 °C). We monitored flavonoid content as markers. The best drying condition was 188 °C and 65% of carrier and enabled microparticles with more than 90% of markers recovery. After 180 days, the dried extract remained with 90.8% at room temperature. The markers were released from microparticles in two minutes. In conclusion, the spray drying process and formulation enabled elderberry flowers to be easier to apply in solid pharmaceutical forms.