Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and quality control of Peucedanum decursivum (Miq.) Maxim: A critical review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dried roots of Peucedanum decursivum, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has historically respiratory diseases such as cough, thick phlegm, headache, fever, and gynecological diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Made an endeavor to evaluate the research trajectory of P. decursivum, comprehensively discern its developmental status, and offer a guideline for future investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A meticulous search of literatures and books from 1955 to 2024 via databases like PubMed, Web of Science and CNKI was conducted, including topics and keywords of " P. decursivum" "Angelica decursivum" and "Zihua Qianhu".

RESULTS

P. decursivum and its prescriptions have traditionally been used for treating phlegm-heat cough, wind-heat cough, gastrointestinal diseases, pain relief and so on. It contains 234 identified compounds, encompassing coumarins, terpenes, volatile oils, phenolic acids, fatty acids and derivatives. It exhibits diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, anti-Alzheimer, and anti-cancer properties, primarily attributed to coumarins. Microscopic identification, HPLC fingerprinting, and bioinformatics identification are the primary methods currently used for the quality control.

CONCLUSION

P. decursivum demonstrates anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, aligning with its traditional use. However, experimental validation of its efficacy against phlegm and viruses is needed. Additionally, analgesic effects mentioned in historical texts lack modern pharmacological studies. Numerous isolated compounds exhibit highly valuable medicinal properties. Future research can delve into exploring these substances further. Rigorous of heavy metal contamination, particularly Cd and Pb, is necessary. Simultaneously, investigating its pharmacokinetics and toxicity in humans is crucial for the safety.

A Review on the Morphology, Cultivation, Identification, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Kitagawia praeruptora (Dunn) Pimenov

Kitagawia praeruptora (Dunn) Pimenov, commonly known as Qianhu in China, is a widely used folk Chinese herbal medicine. This article reviews its botanical traits, ethnopharmacology, cultivation techniques, identification, phytochemical compositions, and pharmacological effects. Over 70 coumarin compounds, including simple coumarins, pyranocoumarins, and furanocoumarins, have been isolated within this plant. Additionally, K. praeruptora contains other components such as flavonoids, fatty acids, benzoic acids, and sterols. This information highlights the importance of utilizing active ingredients and excavating pharmacological effects. With its remarkable versatility, K. praeruptora exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects. It has been found to possess expectorant and bronchodilator properties, cardiovascular protection, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, anti-tumor effects, and even antidiabetic properties. It is recommended to focus on the development of new drugs that leverage the active ingredients of K. praeruptora and explore its potential for new clinical applications and holistic utilization.

Root extract of Angelica reflexa B.Y.Lee reduces allergic lung inflammation by regulating Th2 cell activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditionally, the roots of Angelica reflexa B.Y.Lee (AR) have been used to treat cough, phlegm, neuralgia, and arthralgia in Northeast Asia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The anti-asthmatic effect of AR root extract (ARE) was determined using a murine airway allergic inflammation model and the primary T cell polarization assay.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To evaluate the anti-asthmatic effect of ARE, inflammatory cell infiltration was determined histologically and inflammatory mediators were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Furthermore, the effects of AREs on Th2 cell differentiation and activation were determined by western blotting and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Asthmatic phenotypes were alleviated by ARE treatment, which reduced mucus production, inflammatory cell infiltration (especially eosinophilia), and type 2 cytokine levels in BALF. ARE administration to mice reduced the number of activated Th2 (CD4⁺CD25⁺) cells and level of GATA3 in the lungs. Furthermore, ARE treatment inhibited the differentiation of Th2 cells in primary cell culture systems via interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) signaling.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that the anti-asthmatic effect of AREs is mediated by the reduction in Th2 cell activation by regulating IRF4.

Anthriscus sylvestris root extract reduces allergic lung inflammation by regulating interferon regulatory factor 4-mediated Th2 cell activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anthriscus sylvestris L. Hoffmann (AS) is a perennial plant that grows in Asia and Eastern Europe. Its dried root is used to treat conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and cough.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of whole AS extract (ASE) on allergic lung inflammation in vitro and in vivo as well as the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model and in vitro primary T helper (Th)2 polarization system. Five groups of 8-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were divided into the following groups: saline control, or OVA-induced allergic asthma with vehicle, ASE (100 or 200 mg/kg), or dexamethasone (5 mg/kg) treatment for 7 days.

RESULTS

ASE attenuated mucus secretion in airway epithelial cells, inflammatory cell infiltration, eosinophilia, and Th2 cytokine levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Mice administered ASE showed reductions in the activated cluster of differentiation 4⁺ T cell population and GATA-binding protein-3 gene expression in the lung, and diminished Th2 cell differentiation and activation in vitro. Furthermore, ASE-treated mice showed decreased interleukin-6 and interferon regulatory factor (IRF)4 expression, with corresponding reductions in nitric oxide levels in the lungs of asthmatic mice and in stimulated RAW cells.

CONCLUSION

ASE exerts anti-asthmatic effects by inhibiting IRF4 expression and thereby suppressing Th2 cell activation.

Reduced allergic lung inflammation by root extracts from two species of Peucedanum through inhibition of Th2 cell activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL EVIDENCE

Peucedani Radix (PR), the root of Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn (PPD) or Peucedanum decursivum (Miq.) Maxim. (PDM), has long been used in Korea to eliminate sputum, relieve cough, and reduce bronchus contraction. Furthermore, these therapeutic strategies are recognized as general and effective methods in western medicine as well as traditional Korean medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To determine and compare the anti-inflammatory effects of PPD extracts (PPDE) and PDM extracts (PDME) on allergic lung inflammation, using in vivo OVA-induced airway inflammation in mice and in vitro primary cell culture systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight-week-old female C57BL/6 mice were placed into four groups (n=4 per group): saline control, OVA-induced allergic lung inflammation with vehicle, or PPDE (200mg/kg) or PDME (200mg/kg) treatment. PR extracts (PRE) were administered from 1 week before 1st OVA sensitization to the day before sacrifice. Mice were sacrificed 18h after last OVA intra-nasal challenge followed by histological and biochemical analyses.

RESULTS

Inflammatory phenotypes were alleviated with oral administration of PRE. PRE treatment decreased mucus production in airway epithelium, inflammatory cell number, eosinophilia, type 2 cytokines, and histamine in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Mice with PRE administration showed diminished activated CD4 T cell (CD4⁺CD25⁺ cell) and GATA-3 level in the lung. In addition, PRE treatment reduced Th2 cell activation in vitro, using Th2 polarization system.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that the anti-inflammatory effects of PRE arise from reduced Th2 cell activation and validate the clinical use of PR in traditional Korean medicine.

Evaluation of Medicinal Categorization of Atractylodes japonica Koidz. by Using Internal Transcribed Spacer Sequencing Analysis and HPLC Fingerprinting Combined with Statistical Tools

Atractylodes rhizomes have been used as the herbal medicine “Changchul” or “Baekchul,” according to their clinical purpose, in Korea, China, and Japan. Among the Atractylodes species, the medicinal use of Atractylodes japonica has been controversial, as it is categorized as both Changchul and Baekchul in those countries, and, moreover, parts of the rhizome have been differently used, depending on age of the plant, in Korea. Chromatographic fingerprinting by using HPLC combined with chemometric analyses and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing analysis were conducted to classify and identify 34 crude drugs derived from Atractylodes rhizomes. The identification of the samples, authenticated by their morphological features as A. japonica Koidz. (Changchul and Baekchul), A. chinensis Koidz., and A. macrocephala Koidz., was confirmed as A. japonica, A. chinensis, and A. macrocephala by ITS sequencing. The results from chemometric analyses showed that the chemical components of the crude drugs from A. japonica were significantly different from those from A. macrocephala but were similar to those from A. chinensis. The analyses also suggested that the categorization by age of A. japonica as Changchul or Baekchul is not recommended. The results indicate that A. japonica should be categorized as “Changchul” and should not be further categorized by age.

Rapid Authentication of the Herbal Medicine Plant Species Aralia continentalis Kitag. and Angelica biserrata C.Q. Yuan and R.H. Shan Using ITS2 Sequences and Multiplex-SCAR Markers

Accurate identification of the plant species that are present in herbal medicines is important for quality control. Although the dried roots of Aralia continentalis (Araliae Continentalis Radix) and Angelica biserrata (Angelicae Pubescentis Radix) are used in the same traditional medicine, namely Dok-Hwal in Korean and Du-Huo in Chinese, the medicines are described differently in the national pharmacopeia. Further confusion arises from the distribution of dried Levisticum officinale and Heracleum moellendorffii roots as the same medicine. Medicinal ingredients from all four plants are morphologically similar, and discrimination is difficult using conventional methods. Molecular identification methods offer rapidity and accuracy. The internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of the nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) was sequenced in all four plant species, and the sequences were used to design species-specific primers. Primers for each species were then combined to allow sample analysis in a single PCR reaction. Commercial herbal medicine samples were obtained from Korea and China and analyzed using the multiplex assay. The assay successfully identified authentic medicines and also identified inauthentic or adulterated samples. The multiplex assay will be a useful tool for identification of authentic Araliae Continentalis Radix and/or Angelicae Pubescentis Radix preparations in Korea and China.

Authentication of medicinal plants by DNA markers

Medicinal plants have been used worldwide for centuries to maintain health and to treat diseases, more so chronic diseases. However, adulteration and use of spurious materials as substitutes have become a major concern for users and industry for reasons of safety and efficacy. Therefore, authentication of medicinal plants is of utmost importance. Morphological, anatomical, chemical and DNA markers solve the problem by differentiating the genuine material from the adulterants, substitutes and spurious drugs. DNA markers use nucleotide sequences to identify species; it takes preference over the other two markers being not age dependent, tissue specific and having a higher discriminating power. Therefore, characterization of plants with such markers is an ideal approach for identification of medicinal plant species and populations/varieties of the same species. Availability of certified taxonomic specimens in herbaria is certainly required for unambiguous confirmation through final visual comparison and analysis.

Molecular Analysis of Vitex Species Using Candidate DNA Barcoding and PCR-RFLP of the matK Gene for Authentication of Vitex glabrata

Several species of the Vitex genus, family Lamiaceae, are used in folk medicine for a variety of remedies. V. glabrata is unique among Vitex species because its main effect is sexual enhancement. However, crude drugs derived from different Vitex species might not be easily distinguishable, which could lead to their misidentification and misuse. Therefore, the accurate authentication of V. glabrata is critical for its effective medicinal use. In this study, the mat K gene and the psbA- trnH intergenic spacer candidate DNA barcodes were sequenced and analyzed to identify five different Vitex species that are medicinally used in Thailand: V. negundo, V. trifolia, V. rotundifolia, V. limonifolia, and V. glabrata. Each region was successfully amplified from the leaves of the five species using a single set of primers, and the sequences determined. The size difference in PCR products of psb A- trn H and PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) of the matK gene sequences were used to differentiate V. glabrata from other Vitex species. These results indicate both the matK gene and the psbA-trnH intergenic spacer as candidate DNA barcodes of Vitex species and suggest that the difference of psbA-trnH PCR products and PCR-RFLP analysis based on the mat K gene are effective for the authentication of V. glabrata.

SCAR markers for discriminating species of two genera of medicinal plants, Liriope and Ophiopogon

The development of DNA markers that can closely discriminate between Liriope and Ophiopogon species is vital for efficient and accurate identification of these species, and to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines made from these plants. We developed species-specific molecular markers for these two genera. Forty RAPD primers were tested to detect polymorphism; species-specific RAPD bands were gel-purified, cloned, and sequenced. Primers for sequence-characterized amplified regions (SCARs) were then designed, based on nucleotide sequences of specific RAPD primers. SCAR markers SA06 and SB05, specific to Ophiopogon japonicus, amplified 460- and 553-bp DNA fragments, respectively. The marker SA12 amplified a 485-bp fragment specific to Liriope platyphylla. This is the first report of a species-specific SCAR marker for this group. These markers will be useful for rapid identification of closely related Liriope and Ophiopogon species.

Authentication of an endangered herb Changium smyrnioides from different producing areas based on rDNA ITS sequences and allele-specific PCR

The rDNA ITS region of 18 samples of Changium smyrnioides from 7 areas and of 2 samples of Chuanminshen violaceum were sequenced and analyzed. The amplified ITS region of the samples, including a partial sequence of ITS1 and complete sequences of 5.8S and ITS2, had a total length of 555 bp. After complete alignment, there were 49 variable sites, of which 45 were informative, when gaps were treated as missing data. Samples of C. smyrnioides from different locations could be identified exactly based on the variable sites. The maximum parsimony (MP) and neighbor joining (NJ) tree constructed from the ITS sequences based on Kumar's two-parameter model showed that the genetic distances of the C. smyrnioides samples from different locations were not always related to their geographical distances. A specific primer set for Allele-specific PCR authentication of C. violaceum from Jurong of Jiangsu was designed based on the SNP in the ITS sequence alignment. C. violaceum from the major genuine producing area in Jurong of Jiangsu could be identified exactly and quickly by Allele-specific PCR.

Biotechnological approaches for conservation and improvement of rare and endangered plants of Saudi Arabia

Genetic variation is believed to be a prerequisite for the short-and long-term survival of the plant species in their natural habitat. It depends on many environmental factors which determine the number of alleles on various loci in the genome. Therefore, it is important to understand the genetic composition and structure of the rare and endangered plant species from their natural habitat to develop successful management strategies for their conservation. However, rare and endangered plant species have low genetic diversity due to which their survival rate is decreasing in the wilds. The evaluation of genetic diversity of such species is very important for their conservation and gene manipulation. However, plant species can be conserved by in situ and in vitro methods and each has advantages and disadvantages. DNA banking can be considered as a means of complimentary method for the conservation of plant species by preserving their genomic DNA at low temperatures. Such approach of preservation of biological information provides opportunity for researchers to search novel genes and its products. Therefore, in this review we are describing some potential biotechnological approaches for the conservation and further manipulation of these rare and endangered plant species to enhance their yield and quality traits.

Development of Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA Based SCAR Marker for Identification of Ipomoea mauritiana Jacq (Convolvulaceae)

Vidari is an Ayurvedic herbal drug used as aphrodisiac, galactagogue and is also used in the preparation of Chyavanaprash. Tubers of Ipomoea mauritiana Jacq. (Convolvulaceae), Pueraria tuberosa (Roxb. ex Willd.) DC (Fabaceae), Adenia hondala (Gaertn.) de Wilde (Passifloraceae) and pith of Cycas circinalis L. (Cycadaceae) are all traded in the name of Vidari, creating issues of botanical authenticity of the Ayurvedic raw drug. DNA-based markers have been developed to distinguish I. mauritiana from the other Vidari candidates. A putative 600-bp polymorphic sequence, specific to I. mauritiana was identified using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique. Furthermore, sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) primers (IM1F and IM1R) were designed from the unique RAPD amplicon. The SCAR primers produced a specific 323-bp amplicon in authentic I. mauritiana and not in the allied species.

Application of RAPD for molecular characterization of plant species of medicinal value from an arid environment

The use of highly discriminatory methods for the identification and characterization of genotypes is essential for plant protection and appropriate use. We utilized the RAPD method for the genetic fingerprinting of 11 plant species of desert origin (seven with known medicinal value). Andrachne telephioides, Zilla spinosa, Caylusea hexagyna, Achillea fragrantissima, Lycium shawii, Moricandia sinaica, Rumex vesicarius, Bassia eriophora, Zygophyllum propinquum subsp migahidii, Withania somnifera, and Sonchus oleraceus were collected from various areas of Saudi Arabia. The five primers used were able to amplify the DNA from all the plant species. The amplified products of the RAPD profiles ranged from 307 to 1772 bp. A total of 164 bands were observed for 11 plant species, using five primers. The number of well-defined and major bands for a single plant species for a single primer ranged from 1 to 10. The highest pair-wise similarities (0.32) were observed between A. fragrantissima and L. shawii, when five primers were combined. The lowest similarities (0) were observed between A. telephioides and Z. spinosa; Z. spinosa and B. eriophora; B. eriophora and Z. propinquum. In conclusion, the RAPD method successfully discriminates among all the plant species, therefore providing an easy and rapid tool for identification, conservation and sustainable use of these plants.