Mineral contents of some plants used as condiments in Turkey

The occurrence of aflatoxins and labelling compliance of locally produced za'atar mix products

Za'atar mix products are mainly composed of the dried and ground leaves and/or blossoms of wild and cultivated plant species (Origanum, Thymbra, Thymus, and Satureja) with the addition of condiments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of aflatoxins, chemical composition (carbohydrates, fibre, fat, protein, moisture, ash, and acid contents), mineral content (Na, Ca, and K), and colour traits (L*a*b*) in relation to food label and food standards compliance. Measured and labelled fat content did not agree for approximately 91% of the samples. There was also no agreement between the measured and labelled fibre contents. The total content of aflatoxins in the tested samples ranged from 2 to 63.7 ng g-1. Eleven (69%) of the 16 analysed products had total aflatoxins higher than the maximum permitted limit of the European Commission. The KAS and LAZ products had significantly lighter colour (the highest L* values), while the ALAQ product had the darkest colour (lowest L* value). The range of sodium content in the tested products was 105.1-1425.3 mg/100 g. In conclusion, za'atar mix products that are available in local markets do not have accurate nutritional labelling information, and the occurrence of aflatoxins was very high. Further studies are needed to evaluate the reasons for these quality defects.

Nutritional evaluation of some potential wild edible plants of North Eastern region of India

Introduction

India's north-eastern hill region (NEH) is one of the biodiversity hotspots, inhabited by several tribal communities still maintaining their traditional food habits. Much of their food resources are drawn from wild sources.

Materials and methods

Fourteen species of wild edible plants of high ethnic importance were collected from remote localities of Nagaland and Meghalaya states of the NEH region of India for nutritional profiling. Nutritional profiling of leaves of six species comprising Gynura cusimbua, Garcinia cowa, Herpetospermum operculatum, Plukenetia corniculata, Trichodesma khasianum, and Elatostemma sessile is conducted first time under present study. Samples were analyzed as per the Official Method of Analysis (AOAC) and standard methods.

Results and discussion

The range of variation in proximate composition was observed for moisture (72-92%), protein (1.71-6.66%), fat (0.22-1.36%), dietary fibre (5.16-14.58%), sugar (0.30-3.41%), and starch (0.07-2.14%). The highest protein content (6.66%) was recorded in Herpetospermum operculatum, followed by Trichodesma khasianum (5.89%) and Plukenetia corniculata (5.27%). Incidentally, two of these also have high iron (>7.0 mg/100 g) and high zinc (>2.0 mg/100 g) contents, except Trichodesma khasianum, which has low zinc content. High antioxidant activities in terms of gallic acid equivalent (GAE) by the cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) method ranged from 1.10 to 8.40 mg/100 g, and by the Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) method ranged from 0.10 to 1.9 mg/100 g, while phenol content ranged between 0.30 and 6.00 mg/100 g. These wild vegetables have high potential because of their nutritional properties and are fully capable of enhancing sustainability and improving ecosystem services. Efforts were also initiated to mainstream these resources, mainly for widening the food basket of native peoples.

Synergic Effect of Honey with Other Natural Agents in Developing Efficient Wound Dressings

Honey has been used for therapeutic and nutritional purposes since ancient times. It was considered one of the essential medical assets in wound healing. According to research, honeybees have significant antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and wound-healing properties. Lately, scientific researchers have focused on apitherapy, using bee products to protect and strengthen the immune system. Since honey is the most important natural product rich in minerals, proteins, and vitamins, it has been intensively used in such therapies. Honey has gained significant consideration because of the beneficial role of its antioxidant compounds, such as enzymes, proteins, amino and organic acids, polyphenols, and carotenoids, but mainly due to flavonoids and phenolic acids. It has been proven that phenolic compounds are responsible for honey's biological activity and that its physicochemical properties, antioxidants, and antimicrobial potential are significant for human health. The review also presents some mechanisms of action and the medical applications of honey, such as wound healing dressings, skin grafts, honey-based nanofibers, and cochlear implants, as the most promising wound healing tools. This extensive review has been written to highlight honey's applications in medicine; its composition with the most important bioactive compounds also illustrates its synergistic effect with other natural products having remarkable therapeutic properties in wound healing.

Nutritional values and phytochemical analysis of Allium calocephalum Wendelbo, a valuable endemic wild garlic to Zagros mountains

Wild edible plants provide the local people with food and medicines and are considered one of the natural ecosystem services. These wild edible diets and herbal medicine always reflect local communities' regional identity and their traditional ecological knowledge. In the new global economy, the natural product field has become a central issue for preserving the traditional culture related to nature, particularly in the context of a sustainable environment. This research study aims to determine the nutritional value and phytochemical contents in a wild population of Allium calocephalum. This wild edible garlic, endemic to the Zagros mountains, is overharvested by Kurdish rural people to enhance their food security at a household level and to perpetuate the preservation of their natural heritage. Here, we estimated the total phenols, flavonoids, carbohydrates, protein, fibers, ash, oil yield, and significant mineral content in both leaves and bulbs of A. calocephalum. Phytochemical analyses were conducted at the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering Sciences (University of Duhok) and the environmental directory of Duhok, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, to get an overview of its nutrients and phytochemical values. Interestingly, a high level of phenolic compounds was obtained from bulbs (0.684 mg gallic acid equivalents/g of dry extract, eq.100g-1). The lowest level of phenolic compounds was found in leaves (0.522 mg gallic acid equivalents/g of dry extract, eq.100g-1). Simultaneously, the bulbs extract gave higher content of flavonoid compounds than the leaves extract (6.31 and 4.73 μg quercetin equivalents/g of dry extract, eq.100g-1, respectively, for the bulbs and leaves). The highest dry weight basis of total carbohydrates, energy value (Kcal), oil content, and moisture content were observed in bulbous parts, and the values were 71.75, 408.86 (Kcal), 9.52, and 92.37, respectively. On the other side, the highest dry weight basis of total protein, fibers, and Ash content was observed in shoot parts, and the values were 15.93, 13.89, and 9.32, respectively. The evidence from this research study supports the idea that this Zagrosian endemic wild garlic enhances the food security and the nutrient diet values of the rural Kurdish people. Keywords: Wild garlic; ethnobotany; edible plants; food security; natural resources; herbal medicine.

Mineral contents, antimicrobial profile, acute and chronic toxicity of the aqueous extract of Moroccan Thymus vulgaris in rodents

Moroccan flora is rich in plants used in traditional medicine, but the further scientific investigation is necessary. The aim of the research was to evaluate the nutritional content and antimicrobial activity of Moroccan Thymus vulgaris, as well as its possible acute and chronic toxicological effects on rodents. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) was used to determine the mineral content. The antimicrobial activity was determined using a well-diffusion test, a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and a minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) assay. Acute and chronic toxicity studies were conducted in vivo on mice and rats, respectively. Following that, haematological, serum-biochemistry, and histological investigations were performed. Moroccan Thyme was shown to be a source of numerous minerals which are necessary for health promotion. All antimicrobial testing, disc diffusion, MIC, and MBC tests revealed that thyme had potent antibacterial activity against all microorganisms tested. Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible bacterium, followed by Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli. Additionally, thyme exhibited great antifungal efficacy against Candida albicans. The acute toxicity results indicated that the aqueous extract of T. vulgaris is almost non-toxic when taken orally. According to the chronic toxicity study, the extract is generally safe when taken orally over an extended period of time. The biochemical and haematological characteristics of the serum and blood were within acceptable limits, and histological examination revealed no abnormalities. In conclusion, the findings of this investigation, confirm the antimicrobial efficacy of the aqueous extract of Moroccan T. vulgaris and its safety for experimental animals.

Mineral Profiling of Twenty Wild and Cultivated Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Growing in Morocco

Aromatic and medicinal plants (AMPs) have attracted a considerable attention owing to their medicinal and nutritional value. The main research focus in AMPs is devoted to bioactive compounds and related biological activities; however, little is known about their mineral profiling, hence the novelty of this work, which aims at investigating the mineral composition of 20 species of AMPs belonging to 10 botanical families growing in Morocco. Mineral profiling was determined using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer in various plant parts depending on each species. Wide variations were found in mineral content among the studied plants. Major elements were K (3987.49 ± 319.01-36,707.01 ± 2936.56 mg/kg), Ca (862.54 ± 69.86-32,836.15 ± 2626.89 mg/kg), P (1065.77 ± 86.33-6328.83 ± 506.32 mg/kg), Mg (986.96 ± 79.66-4935.41 ± 394.82 mg/kg), and Na (28.21 ± 2.23-5792.26 ± 463.38 mg/kg). Fe (62.09 ± 4.96-1636.24 ± 130.89 mg/kg), Mn (10.63 ± 0.85-124.72 ± 9.85 mg/kg), B (5.64 ± 0.45-71.33 ± 5.71 mg/kg), Zn (8.94 ± 0.72-47.01 ± 3.76 mg/kg), and Cu (2.06 ± 0.14-15.12 ± 1.20 mg/kg) were detected at minor levels. Most of the investigated plants were shown to be good sources of minerals. Important correlations were found among different minerals. These outcomes were confirmed by principal component analysis, which separate among studied plants and minerals through the first two principal components. According to obtained results, the studied plants could provide a new promising source of necessary minerals for human diet as well as other various applications.

Effects of Green Apple (Golden Delicious) and Its Three Major Flavonols Consumption on Obesity, Lipids, and Oxidative Stress in Obese Rats

Obesity is becoming increasingly common all over the world and global strategies are accordingly being developed to prevent it. In order to support the strategies, the effects of green apple (Golden Delicious) and the consumption of its three major flavonols (quercetin-3-glucoside, quercetin-3-D-galactoside, and quercetin-3-rhamnoside) on body weight; the weight of liver, kidney, and spleen; some lipid parameters in serum; and total lipid ratios of liver and kidney and oxidative stress parameters of obese rats were studied. This study was conducted on two experimental groups: one of which was given an apple, and the other was given flavonols, in addition to their high-energy diet; along with a sham and a control rat group, for 4 weeks. According to results, there was no difference in body and organ weights between groups. The liver and kidney weights increased in obese rats, but there was no difference between the total lipid ratios in these organs. The addition of green apple and selected flavonols to the high-energy diet of rats was not sufficient to prevent the increase in body and organ weights, but it supported the reduction in some lipid fractions and in oxidative stress parameters of obese rats. Moreover, this study supported the argument that obesity causes most of the lipid fractions increase in serum and induces oxidative stress.

Effect of Biostimulants on the Yield and Quality of Selected Herbs

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of amino acid biopreparations on the yield of summer savory, marjoram, and lemon balm, and the concentrations of selected biochemical and mineral compounds in their herbage. The first experimental factor was plant species: summer savory (Satureja hortensis L.) var. Saturn, marjoram (Origanum majorana L.) var. Miraż, and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.). The second experimental factor was the effect exerted by two biopreparations, Calleaf Aminovital and Maximus Amino Protect, on herbage yield and quality. In the control treatment, plants were sprayed with water. The analyzed herb species differed considerably in yield and the concentrations of selected biochemical compounds and minerals. Lemon balm was characterized by the highest yield (1.73 kg m−2). Marjoram var. Miraż was characterized by the highest concentrations of reducing sugars (0.89 g 100 g−1 FM) and L-ascorbic acid (39.7 mg 100 g−1 FM). Summer savory was most abundant in total N, K, and Ca. The tested biostimulants contributed to a decrease in nitrate concentrations in the studied plants. The interaction between the experimental factors significantly affected the content of nitrates and mineral compounds and total N, P, K, and Ca in the herbage of the analyzed plant species.

Mineral Contents in Aboveground Biomass of Sedges (Carex L., Cyperaceae)

The importance of mineral elements, both in animal and plant nutrition, has been well recognized, but, in the case of sedges, the mineral composition is relatively poorly known. Studies usually relate to the content of the elements in sedge communities, or sward or hay communities with sedge participation, and rarely of Carex representatives. The objective of our study was to determine the concentrations of C, N, Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Si, Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cr and Ni in the biomass of 11 Carex species commonly occurring on natural sites of Central European lowland. Interspecific differentiations have been observed in concentrations of the major and trace elements among studied sedge species. The elemental composition of examined Carex species is diversified but generally similar to the composition of grasses. The study shows that sedges can increase fodder value and, therefore, they should be considered in meadow management as a valuable component of economically important meadow communities. Moreover, the data reported herein can be used for modelling the phytoaccumulation of various elements in the biomass of sedges. This will help in creating different patches suitable for obtaining adequate fodder. Our results can supplement current knowledge concerning the fodder value of meadows with sedge participation.

Comparison of Nutritional Compositions and Essential Oil Profiles of Different Parts of a Dill and Two Fennel Cultivars

Fennel and dill are widely used as food additives owing to their various biological activities, such as antioxidants, antimicrobials, food-preservatives, and seasoning capacities. Herein, the nutritional composition and essential oil (EO) chemical profiles of fruits, umbels, stalks, and roots from one dill and two fennel cultivars were evaluated. The fruits had the highest content of crude protein (≥15%), crude fat (≥8%), and phosphorus (≥0.5%), and exhibited the highest total energy (≥20 MJ/kg) and EO yield (≥2%). Moreover, estragole (86.56% in Fdf), anethole (71.17% in Fhf), fenchone (16.74% in Fhf), limonene (50.19% in Agf), and carvone (42.41% in Agf) were the main components of the EOs generated from the fruits. The chemical profiles of EOs in the roots were significantly different from those of the aerial parts of the fennel and dill; thus, the roots and aerial parts could be distinguished based on myristicin (Variable Importance in Projection (VIP) = 1.90399) and apiol (VIP = 1.85922). The EO components of the aerial parts varied remarkably, and the chemical markers for differentiating these three cultivars were anethole (VIP = 1.36571), estragole (VIP = 1.30292), and carvone (VIP = 1.11947). Overall, our results provide a noteworthy chemical basis for further development of fennel and dill, especially as food additives.

Basil Seeds as a Novel Food, Source of Nutrients and Functional Ingredients with Beneficial Properties: A Review

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is found worldwide and is used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries; however, the nutritional and functional properties of the seeds are scarcely known. Basil seeds contain high concentrations of proteins (11.4–22.5 g/100 g), with all the essential amino acids except S-containing types and tryptophan; dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble) ranging from 7.11 to 26.2 g/100 g lipids, with linoleic (12–85.6 g/100 g) and linolenic fatty acids (0.3–75 g/100 g) comprising the highest proportions; minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium, in high amounts; and phenolic compounds, such as orientine, vicentine, and rosmarinic acid. In addition, their consumption is associated with several health benefits, such as the prevention of type-2 diabetes, cardio-protection, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, and anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, anticoagulant, and anti-depressant properties, among others. The focus of this systematic review was to study the current state of knowledge and explore the enormous potential of basil seeds as a functional food and source of functional ingredients to be incorporated into foods.

Evaluation of multielement/proximate composition and bioactive phenolics contents of unconventional edible plants from Brazil using multivariate analysis techniques

Unconventional edible plants (UEP) are potential supplementary sources of minerals and bioactive compounds. However, there is still a gap in the literature on UEP composition. In this study, the multielement/proximate composition of ten UEP from Brazil was evaluated by ICP OES. Furthermore, phenolic bioactives were quantified by HPLC-UV-DAD. The UEP showed high moisture content (84.85-95.27%) and elements (in mg Kg^-1): Al (122-657), Ca (145-14,229), Cu (8.3-18.81), Fe (177-586), K (12.46-34.50%), Mg (157-1,552), Mn (16.85-84.96), Na (1,107-23,775), P (2,535-6,127), Si (189-1,695), Sr (25.56-104.63) and Zn (0.3-72.31). Nine phenolic bioactive compounds (1-2,147) and three flavonoids (1-2,042 mg Kg^-1) were determined. PCA and HCA grouped samples (Java ginseng, Coriander, Spearmint and Indian borage) rich in minerals. Spearmint showed high levels of transcinamic acid, kaempferol and quercetin. This study contributes to the scientific development and use of UEP.

Altered serum elements, antioxidants, MDA, and immunoglobulins are associated with an increased risk of seborrheic dermatitis

Background

The exact mechanism for the pathophysiology of seborrheic dermatitis (SD) remains unknown. According to past knowledge, neuropsychiatric disorders, weak immune responses, fungal infections, antioxidants deficiencies, and inadequate nutrition might involve in SD. Here we evaluated serum trace elements, micronutrients, antioxidants, malondialdehyde (MDA), and immunoglobulins in SD patients.

Methods

This case-control study recruited 75 SD patients and 76 age-and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). We measured serum micronutrients using atomic absorption spectroscopic methods. Similarly, we assessed serum antioxidants applying the RP-HPLC techniques. Also, serum MDA and immunoglobulins levels were evaluated by UV-spectrophotometric and turbidimetric methods, respectively.

Results

We observed higher serum levels of copper, manganese, iron, calcium, magnesium, and MDA in SD patients than HCs. Together with vitamin E, we noticed lower serum concentrations of immunoglobulin A, G, and M in SD patients than HCs. The present study detected a positive correlation between serum zinc and calcium levels (r = 0.365, p = 0.009) in SD patients. However, we identified a negative correlation between serum copper and calcium levels (r = -0.298, p = 0.035).

Conclusion

The present study suggests that the altered levels of micronutrients, antioxidants, MDA, and immunoglobulins are associated with the pathophysiology of SD. These changes may not be the cause but the consequences of the disease. These findings might help to understand the etiopathology and management of SD.

Monitoring and modeling of heavy metal contents in vegetables collected from markets in Imo State, Nigeria

Vegetable consumption is one major exposure route of heavy metals to humans, but few data exist for Imo State, Nigeria. We assessed the contamination levels and associated health risk of cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in vegetables (Telfairia occidentalis, Pterocarpus mildbraedii, Gongronenina latifolium and Vernonia amygdalina) that are consumed frequently from markets (n=16) in three zones of Imo State, Nigeria. After wet-digestion of samples, the supernatant were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The mean concentrations in the four vegetables ranged from 0.006±0.003 mg/kg to 0.011±0.007 mg/kg for Cd, 0.064±0.012 mg/kg to 1.225±0.226 mg/kg for Co, 10.711±1.968 mg/kg to 25.088±13.975 mg/kg for Cu, 0.062±0.013 mg/kg to 0.307±0.210 mg/kg for Ni, 0.006±0.005 mg/kg to 0.012±0.002 mg/kg for Pb and 63.55±4.055 mg/kg to 104.126±24.080 mg/kg for Zn. Except for Zn, all heavy metals in the various vegetables were below the joint standard of Food and Agriculture Organization and World Health Organization. Although, overall load of heavy metal was very low, Zn had the highest contamination factor in vegetables. Heavy metals concentrations in vegetables generally showed low to high variations and statistically different (p<0.05). Average daily intake was below the provisional tolerance limit except for Zn. The target hazard quotient of metals in vegetables for both children and adults were below 1, indicating no potential risk to the public. Overall, heavy metals hazard index were below 1, indicating acceptable level of non-carcinogenic adverse health effect. However, potential multi-element contamination from ingestion is possible as revealed by the correlation profiling of heavy metals.

Nutritional Value of Savory Herb (Satureja hortensis L.) and Plant Response to Variable Mineral Nutrition Conditions in Various Phases of Development

Mineral nutrition and plant ontogeny influence both the physiological balance between nutrients in a plant and determine the proper nutritional status of a plant, which is necessary to realize the yielding potential of a cultivated species. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of nitrogen doses (0, 4, 8, 12, 16 g N·m^-2) and plant development phases (the beginning and full flowering) on the content of macroelements and changes in ionic ratios occurring in the herb of the summer savory cv. 'Saturn'. The two-factor experiment was carried out in a random-block design with five replications. The mineral nitrogen nutrition applied increased the concentration of total nitrogen and its mineral forms in the plants. There was a change in ion homeostasis in the individual stages of the ontogenesis process, i.e., a higher content of P, K, Ca, and S in the initial flowering phase as well as Mg and Cl in the full flowering phase. The increase in the availability of mineral nitrogen in the soil solution caused a decrease in total sorption capacity, reducing the potential of the soil for saturation with alkaline cations.

Detection of nutritional and toxic elements in Pakistani pepper powders using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy

In the current study, we applied laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to determine the elemental distribution of nutritional and trace heavy metals in pepper powders available in Pakistan using the standard calibration curve of laser induced breakdown spectroscopic (CC-LIBS) technique. The samples were found to contain elements such as K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Zn, Al, Pb, Cu, and Cr. In addition, we also identified the atmospheric H-alpha line of hydrogen in the spectra, which was used to estimate the electron number density. To achieve a highly sensitive LIBS system to determine the trace amounts of nutritional and toxic metals in the pepper powders and to achieve the best limit of detection, the LIBS system was optimized by studying the dependency of the LIBS signal intensity on laser irradiance, variation in spacing between the focusing lens and target, as well as on the gate width. To justify the results of the LIBS study, we also determined the concentration of similar (duplicate) peppers by digesting the samples in appropriate solvents using a standard method such as inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The minimum detection limit was obtained for trace heavy metals from the calibration curves. The results of LIBS displayed noteworthy conformity with those acquired from the ICP-OES analysis. The results of both the techniques clearly revealed that K was the most abundant element in all the peppers, followed by Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Al, Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr. The relative accuracy of our LIBS system for different species as compared with the ICP technique was in the range of 0.08-0.3 at 2.5% error confidence. Conclusively, the present work demonstrated the suitability of the LIBS technique due to its rapid, non-destructive, and eco-friendly approach for food security.

Macro- and microelement content and health risk assessment of heavy metals in various herbs of Iran

In this study, element content and health risk of the most popular herbs from Iran were evaluated. The samples of raw materials from 30 different herbs were purchased from the local markets of Iran. The concentration levels of some elements including macroelements (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Na), and heavy metals (Cd, Ni, and Pb) of studied herbs were evaluated. The potential of health risks was calculated by Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Hazard Index (HI). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to test a hypothesis about differences between the mean values. The highest levels of Ca (20,000 ± 26.3 mg/kg), Mg (9600 ± 45.4 mg/kg), N (59,955 ± 11.55 mg/kg), P (6544 ± 20 mg/kg), and K (56,563.2 ± 18 mg/kg) were found in Zataria multiflora, Malva sylvestris, Acasia arbus, Cannabis sativa, and Amomum subulatum, respectively. In addition, the highest concentration levels of Fe (987 ± 75.27 mg/kg), Zn (1187.5 ± 10 mg/kg), Cu (64.2 ± 2 mg/kg), Mn (272.3 ± 66.62 mg/kg), and Na (2658.8 ± 20.3 mg/kg) were recorded in Bunium persicum, Peganum harmala, Papaver somniferum, Alpinia officinalis, and Cuminum cyminum, respectively. Acasia arbus, Anethum graveolens, and Malva sylvestris showed the highest concentration of Ni (6.07 ± 0.04 mg/kg), Cd (1.64 ± 0.16 mg/kg), and Pb (9.27 ± 0.25 mg/kg). Based on performed health risk assessment on the studied plants, EDI, THQ, and HI values of all of them were less than 1. This study indicated that there were several harmful elements in the herbs. The healthier plant species are those with the least concentration of Pb, Ni, and Cd, which include Vitex agnus-custus and Teucrium polium. On the other hand, the toxic plants with a higher concentration of Pb, Ni, and Cd included Malva sylvestris, Acasia arbus, and Anethum graveolens. In addition, evaluation of human risk assessment is an important factor for investigating the concentration of heavy metals harmful for human beings.

Major, minor and trace element concentrations in spices and aromatic herbs from Sicily (Italy) and Mahdia (Tunisia) by ICP-MS and multivariate analysis

Element contents in different types of spices and aromatic herbs collected from Italy and Tunisia were evaluated. The aim was to evaluate: the possible differences and/or similarities among the analyzed samples; if it is possible related the samples to their geographical origins; the nutritional quality and the potential health risks. Potassium, Ca, Mg and Ni were low in laurel and rosemary; mint and thyme showed the highest Na and the lowest Se contents; arsenic and Cd levels were found highest in verbena which had also the lowest Hg content; lastly, black pepper had the highest Mn and the lowest Pb contents. Instead discrimination between Italian and Tunisian samples for each spices and aromatic herbs under analysis was achieved by PCA. Essential elements intake through samples was small. Levels of Pb in some samples exceed the maximum allowable level, but any safety risk for consumers is excluded.

An overview of physicochemical characteristics and health-promoting properties of honeydew honey

Honeydew honey has differentiated chemical and physicochemical characteristics besides potential functional properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. In this sense, the interest and consumption of this honey as a functional product by the food industry and consumers have increased. Honeydew honeys usually present dark color, a lower content of monosaccharides and higher values of pH, acidity, electric conductivity, proteins, minerals, phenolic compounds, and oligosaccharides compared to blossom honeys, which contribute to its outstanding biological activities. Consequently, contaminations and adulterations of this honey can occur and compromise the quality, safety and authenticity of honeydew honey. Thus, detailed knowledge of the composition and properties of honeydew honeys is of great importance, especially considering that honeydew honeys are still few studied and therefore underestimated. Therefore, in this review, the physicochemical characteristics, chemical and bioactive composition, functional and health-promoting properties of honeydew honey as well as contamination, adulteration and authenticity of this honey are summarized.

Multielement analysis of plant extracts with potential use in the treatment of peptic ulcers by synchrotron radiation total reflection X-ray fluorescence

Some plants popularly employed for the treatment of peptic ulcers have proved to be attractive sources of new drugs. Despite extensive research, the pharmacological and toxicological potentials of these plants are not fully understood. In this context, the aim of this work was to analyze the multielemental composition of the methanolic extracts of three of those plants, Alchornea glandulosa (AG), Davilla elliptica (DE) and Davilla nitida (DN), with the intention of contributing to the understanding of the mechanisms of action of these extracts. For this purpose, we used the analytical technique of total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) by synchrotron radiation at the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Source (LNLS/CNPEM). It was possible to determine the concentrations of the elements: P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Rb and Br in all of the samples. Selenium (Se) was detected only in the DN extract. An inverse relationship between the concentrations of elements with proven effectiveness and the gastroprotective activity of extracts considering induction protocols with ethanol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was obtained. This data suggests that the function of the extract is not only associated with providing the elements for restoring the gastric mucosa but that it also promotes the displacement of these elements from other parts of the mucosa to the damaged area. Correlations between the concentrations of the elements were also obtained. In the DE extract, which is the most effective extract for both induction protocols, the obtained correlations were above 70% among almost all of the elements, and no anticorrelations were found. For the other two extracts, in the less effective extract (AG) anticorrelations above 70% were predominantly found. Meanwhile, in the DN extract, a few high anticorrelations were found, which may explain its intermediate stage of effectiveness.

Effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds, minerals, and antioxidant capacity of Mimosa scabrella Bentham honeydew honeys

Honey is a product traditionally consumed due to its possible health benefits promoted by natural antioxidants. However, few studies have evaluated the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on these compounds in honeys. To improve the knowledge of this subject, the present study aimed to investigate the influence of simulated digestion on the stability of antioxidant capacity (FRAP, DPPH, and Folin-Ciocalteu assays), phenolic compounds (LC-ESI-MS/MS), and minerals (CE-DAD) in Mimosa scabrella Bentham honeydew honeys. The results show that the digestive system, mainly after duodenal digestion, significantly decreased the antioxidant capacity assessed by FRAP (410.3±18.3 to 564.7±8.4μmolFe⁺²100g^-1), DPPH (30.1±0.8 to 33.9±1.4mgAAE100g^-1), and Folin-Ciocalteu assays (58.3±2.6 to 142.0±1.6mgGAE100g^-1) of this honey. However, phenolic compounds and minerals showed high stability and in some cases, significantly increased after the simulated digestion, presenting a bioaccessible fraction that ranged from 78.2±6.4 to 174.38±6.82% and 94.0±4.3 to 220.5±3.4%, respectively. Therefore, these honey constituents may be considered highly bioaccessible and potentially bioavailable. Additionally, the correlation between the investigated parameters suggests that other honey constituents could also possibly affect antioxidant capacity of this honey. In conclusion, the bracatinga (Mimosa scabrella Benth.) honeydew honey can be highlighted as an important natural source of bioaccessible polyphenols, besides presenting highly bioaccessible minerals in its composition, maintaining a satisfactory antioxidant capacity.

Elemental Characterization of Romanian Crop Medicinal Plants by Neutron Activation Analysis

The metallic elements concentrations of medicinal plants (coriander, dill, Echinacea, lavender, chamomile, mint, and plantain, used for phytopharmaceutical products), cultivated in unpolluted region, were analyzed by neutron activation analysis. The essential nutrients, macro-, micro-, and trace elements (K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Rb, Sr, and Zn), potentially toxic elements (Al, As, Ba, Co, Sb, Cr, and V), and rare earth elements were monitored and were compared with those presented in the literature. An estimation of their contributions to intake and toxicity for a person was made, which revealed that (a) teas prepared from the examined plants represent useful contribution to the food provided intake of three essential macronutrients (K, Ca, and Mg); (b) the Cu, Mn, Rb, Sr, Zn, and rare earths levels are normal or low; (c) the quantities of As, Ba, Co, Sb, Cr, and V do not represent toxicological concerns; (d) the examination of the estimated Al and Fe quantities recovered in infusions in the conditions of usual daily tea consumption is below the Tolerable Daily Intake values. The strategy of cultivation of medicinal plants in unpolluted areas is efficient and beneficial. However, individual plants ability to concentrate preferentially certain elements suggests controlling the contamination level of raw materials.

Calcium biofortification and bioaccessibility in soilless "baby leaf" vegetable production

Calcium is an essential nutrient for human health, because it is a structural component and takes part in a variety of biological processes. The aim of this study was to increase Ca content of baby leaf vegetables (BLV: basil, mizuna, tatsoi and endive), as fresh-cut products. For the production of biofortified BLV, a floating system with two level of Ca (100 and 200mgL(-1)) in the nutrient solution was used. In addition, the assessment of bioaccessibility of Ca, by in vitro digestion process, was performed. In all vegetables, the Ca biofortification (200mgL(-1)) caused a significant Ca enrichment (9.5% on average) without affecting vegetables growth, oxalate contents and marketable quality. Calcium bioaccessibility ranged from 25% (basil) to 40% (endive) but the biofortified vegetables showed more bioaccessible Ca. These results underline the possibility to obtain Ca biofortified BLV by using agronomic approaches.

Elemental characterisation of the medical plant Alchemilla velebitica

Alchemilla, commonly called "lady's mantle", is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants belonging to the family Rosaceae. The species Alchemilla velebitica is found only in Southern Europe, like in the Croatian National Park Northern Velebit. Its benefits, such as a astringent and emmenagogue activity as well as wound healing are correlated to the organic compounds found in the plant, but also certain trace elements are known to reduce skin lesions, such as zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, silicon and lithium. Thus the objective of the present study was the elemental characterization of leaves, blossoms and roots of A. velebitica. After acidic microwave assisted digestion the concentrations of selected essential and trace elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma--atomic emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma--mass spectrometry. Other minor elements, such as Al, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Sr and Zn are also found in leaves, blossoms and roots with contents in μg/kg range. The preparation of decoctions and the extraction yields of the elements of interest are calculated.

Total nutritional capacity and inflammation inhibition effect of Acalypha alnifolia Klein ex wild—An unexplored wild leafy vegetable

Investigation of the nutritional as well as trace elements of a wild leafy vegetable, Acalypha alnifolia, and evaluation of the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties of acetone and methanol leaf extracts are the main objectives of the present study. The powdered A. alnifolia leaf sample was subjected to nutritional and mineral analysis. Plant leaves were extracted (using the Soxhlet apparatus) as successive solvent extractions. The extract doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg of acetone and methanol extracts were used for pharmacology study. The analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic experiments were carried out by using animal models. The obtained result proves that the plant possesses essential nutritive values and useful biological properties. The higher dose of acetone extract has significant potency when compared with methanol extract at p < 0.005. On the whole, the plant is rich in minerals and has good biological properties; hence, this plant is suggested for cultivation and regular use for nutritional supplement.

Mineral contents and proximate composition of Pistacia vera kernels

The mineral contents of Pistacia vera kernels were determined by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). The minimum and maximum values of K, P, Ca, Mg, and S elements ranged from 6,333 to 8,064 mg/kg, 3,630 to 5,228 mg/kg, 1,614 to 3,226 mg/kg, 1,716 to 2,402 mg/kg, and 1,417 to 1,825 mg/kg, respectively. In addition, the mean values of Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, B, Mo, Cr and Ni elements were determined as 42.48, 20.52, 12.81, 7.48, 11.31, 0.106, 0.511 and 1.67 mg/kg, respectively. Ash levels of kernels were found between 2.28 % (Urfa) and 2.79 % (Halebi). In addition, crude oil and protein contents were determined between 48.8 % (Halebi) to 55.3 % (Siirt) and 23.33 % (Uzun) to 27.16 % (Halebi), respectively.

Evaluation of toxic metal (Hg, Cd, Pb), polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), and pesticide (DDTs) levels in aromatic herbs collected in selected areas of Southern Italy

This study provides, for the first time, data regarding levels of toxic metals (Hg, Cd, and Pb) and organochlorine compounds (PCBs and DDTs) in various aromatic herbs as rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sage (Salvia officinalis), laurel (Laurus nobilis), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and spearmint (Mentha viridis) collected in some towns of the Southern Italy with different anthropogenic and population pressure. Metal and organochlorine compound concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer and gas-chromatography mass spectrometer (GC/MS), respectively. Pb emerged as the most abundant element, followed by Cd and Hg, while between organochlorine compounds, PCB concentrations were higher than those of DDTs. The pollutant concentrations were found to vary depending on the different herbs. The highest Pb levels were observed in rosemary (1.66 μg g(-1) dry weight) and sage (1.41 μg g(-1) dry weight), this latter showing also the highest Cd concentrations (0.75 μg g(-1) dry weight). For PCBs, the major concentrations were found in rosemary (2.75 ng g(-1) dry weight) and oregano (2.39 ng g(-1) dry weight). The principal component analysis applied in order to evaluate possible similarities and/or differences in the contamination levels among sampling sites indicated differences area-specific contamination.

Assessment of by-products from fresh-cut products for reuse as bioactive compounds

The fresh-cut industry is constantly growing and generating wastes. The major challenge for this industry consists in an environmentally sustainable production through re-utilization of by-products, for instance, in extraction of bioactive compounds. In this paper, the nutritional and functional compounds of apple, potato, cucumber, melon and watermelon by-products were investigated. The amount of by-product produced was of 10.10 to 30.80% of initial fresh weight depending on the product. By-products were characterized by low protein (<20 g/kg fresh weight) and fatty acid content (<5 g/kg fresh weight) and high levels of minerals. Carbohydrates content ranged from 43.7 to 235 g/kg fresh weight, while total dietary fibre was between 20 and 150 g/kg fresh weight The content of antioxidants (53.6 to 3453.2 mg/kg fresh weight) and total polyphenols (124.5 to 4250.2 mg/kg fresh weight) depended strongly on the type of by-product. In most cases, the nutritional and bioactive content was higher in the peel than in whole product. Apple peel was rich in carbohydrates, total dietary fibre, antioxidants and total polyphenols. Potato peel was high in iron. Melon was rich in magnesium. Watermelon peel was characterized by the level of potassium, and cucumber peel was rich in manganese, zinc, phosphorous, calcium and sodium. All these data demonstrate than natural by-product from fresh-cut industry could potentially be utilized as ingredients to design new functional foods with a future market.

Biochemical properties of some Salvia L. species

Antioxidant capacity, total phenol and mineral contents of aerial parts of sage belonging to some Salvia species were established. The lowest and highest antioxidant values of Salvia dichroantha Stapf and Salvia heldreichiana Boiss. ex Benth. extracts were found as 73.855 and 80.207 mg GAE/g, respectively. While the highest total phenol was established in Salvia tomentosa Mil. (13.316 mg GAE/100 ml), the lowest level was found in Salvia halophila Hedge (6.168 mg GAE/100 ml). While K contents of plants changed between 14,518 and 24,171 mg/kg, Ca contents ranged between 12,402 and 18,553 mg/kg. P and Mg contents were found low compared with K and P values of plants. Mg content was changed between 2,118 and 2,914 mg/kg; the mean was calculated as 2,496 mg/kg. P contents of plants were determined between 1,385 to 1,910 mg/kg. As a microelement, Fe was found at the highest level. Fe contents of plants were found between 179 and 782 mg/kg.

Effect of citric acid on metals mobility in pruning wastes and biosolids compost and metals uptake in Atriplex halimus and Rosmarinus officinalis

To assess metal mobility in pruning waste and biosolids compost (pH 6.9 and total concentration of metals in milligram per kilogram of Cd 1.9, Cu 132, Fe 8,513, Mn 192, Pb 81, and Zn 313), shrubs species Atriplex halimus and Rosmarinus officinalis were transplanted in this substrate and irrigated with citric acid (4 g L(-1), pH 2.9) and nutrient solution daily for 60 days. Citric acid significantly increased the concentrations of soluble Mn and Fe in the nutrient substrate solution measured by suction probes, while other metals did not vary in concentration (Cu and Zn) or were not observed at detectable levels (Cd and Pb). In plants, citric acid significantly increased the concentrations of Cu (2.7 ± 0.1-3.3 ± 0.1 mg kg(-1)), Fe (49.2 ± 5.2-76.8 ± 6.8 mg kg(-1)), and Mn (7.2 ± 1.1-11.4 ± 0.7 mg kg(-1)) in leaves of R. officinalis, whereas the concentration of only Mn (25.4 ± 0.3-42.2 ± 2.9 mg kg(-1)) was increased in A. halimus. Increasing Fe and Mn solubility by citric acid addition indicates the possibility of using it to improve plant nutrition. The mobility of metals in this substrate was influenced for the concentration of the metal, the degree of humification of organic matter and its high Fe content.