The value of plants used in traditional medicine for drug discovery

From antibiotic to antiviral: computational screening reveals a multi-targeting antibiotic from Streptomyces spp. against Nipah virus fusion proteins

Nipah Virus is a re-emerging zoonotic paramyxovirus that poses a significant threat to both swine industry and human health. The pursuit of potential antiviral agents with both preventive and therapeutic properties holds promise for targeting such viruses. To expedite this search, leveraging computational biology is essential. Streptomyces is renowned for its capacity to produce large and diverse metabolites with promising bioactivities. In the current study, we conducted a comprehensive structure-based virtual screening of 6524 Streptomyces spp. metabolites sourced from the StreptomeDB database to evaluate their potential inhibitory effects on three Nipah virus fusion (NiVF) protein conformations: NiVF pre-fusion 1-mer (NiVF-1mer), pre-fusion 3-mer (NiVF-3mer), and NiVF post-fusion (NiVF-PoF). Prior to virtual screening, the drug-likeness of Streptomyces spp. compounds was profiled using ADMET properties. From the 913 ADMET-filtered compounds, the subsequent targeted and confirmatory blind docking analysis revealed that S896 or virginiamycin M1, a known macrolide antibiotic, showed a maximum binding affinity with the NiVF proteins, suggesting a multi-targeting inhibitory property. In addition, the 200-ns molecular dynamics simulation and MM/PBSA analyses revealed stable and strong binding affinity between the NiVF-S896 complexes, indicating favorable interactions between S896 and the target proteins. These findings suggest the potential of virginiamycin M1, an antibiotic, as a promising multi-targeting antiviral drug. However, in vitro and in vivo experimental validations are necessary to assess their safety and efficacy.

Phytochemical screening, UPLC analysis, evaluation of synergistic antioxidant and antibacterial efficacy of three medicinal plants used in Kinshasa, D.R. Congo

Plant extracts are used worldwide due to their biologically active compounds, which support food preservation and help combat various diseases through their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. In the capital city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, an ethnobotanical survey revealed the use of Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants, Ocimum gratissimum L. and Tetradenia riparia (Hochst.) Codd, often in combination, for treating oral microbial diseases. While these plants have been widely studied individually; their combined potential has not been investigated. The present research aims to explore the phytochemical composition, the synergistic antimicrobial, and antioxidant potential of different extracts from these three mentioned plants. Phytochemical composition of the decocted and percolated extracts from the three plants was determined using qualitative analysis and the ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the broth dilution method, while antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH method. For the antimicrobial studies, the decocted and percolated extracts were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, iridoids, and anthraquinones in all the plant extracts. The methanolic extract of T. riparia exhibited the highest phenolic content (299.146 ± 0.143 mg GAE/g extract), while O. gratissimum had the highest flavonoid content (138.256 ± 0.277 mg QE/g extract). UPLC analysis identified several metabolites in the plant extracts including rosmarinic acid, cirsimaritin, xanthomicrol and kaempferol derivatives. Rosmarinic acid was consistently identified across all the plant extract combinations, while other flavonoids such as apigenin 7-glycosides, kaempferitin and luteolin 7-O-glucoside, were detected in specific plant extract combinations. The decocted plant extracts exhibited higher antioxidant activity than the percolated extracts, with O. gratissimum showing the highest antioxidant activity (11.744 ± 0.584 µg/mL), followed by T. riparia (12.916 ± 0.972 µg/mL). The extract combinations from O. gratissimum and T. riparia demonstrated synergistic antioxidant activity (CI = 0.57). Amongst all extracts, the highest antibacterial activity was observed in the decocted extracts of O. gratissimum and T. riparia against S. aureus (MIC = 500 µg/mL), with their combination showing additive antibacterial activity (FICI = 1). The aim of this study was primarily to evaluate the combinatory potential of these three plants as reliable sources of antimicrobials and antioxidants for the treatment of various microbial diseases in the future. The study provides evidence of the synergistic antioxidant and antibacterial potential of O. gratissimum and T. riparia. These results suggest that these plant extracts are promising sources of natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agents, with potential application in the pharmaceutical and food industries for combating several infectious diseases.

Animals traded for traditional medicine in Ghana: their zootherapeutic uses and implications for biodiversity conservation

The use of animals for zootherapeutic purposes has been reported worldwide, and with the patronage of complementary and alternative medicines being on the ascendency, the trade and use of animal parts will only escalate. Many more of these animals used in traditional medicine will be pushed to extinction if policies for their sustainable use and conservation are not formulated. There have been studies across the world which assessed the trade and use of animals in traditional medicine including Ghana. However, all previous Ghanaian studies were conducted in a few specific cities. It therefore makes it imperative for a nationwide study which would provide more comprehensive information on the trade and use of animals in traditional medicine and its conservation implications. Using direct observation and semi-structured questionnaires, data were collected from 133 vendors of animal parts used in traditional medicines in 48 markets located across all 16 administrative regions of Ghana. Analysis of the data showed that the trade in wild animal parts for traditional medicine was more prevalent in the urban centres of Ghana. Overall, 75 identifiable animal species were traded on Ghanaian traditional medicine markets. Using their relative frequency of citation values, chameleons (Chamaeleo spp.; 0.81), lions (Panthera leo; 0.81) and the West African crocodile (Crocodylus suchus; 0.67) were the most commonly traded animals in Ghana. Majority of the vendors (59.1%) indicated that their clients use the animal parts for medicinal purposes mainly for skin diseases, epilepsy and fractures, while clients of 28.2% of the vendors use the animal parts for spiritual or mystical purposes, such as protection against spiritual attacks, spiritual healing and money rituals. Up to 54.2% of the animals were classified as Least Concern by IUCN, 14.7% were threatened, with 51.2% of CITES-listed ones experiencing a decreasing population trend. This study also found that 68.5% of the traded animal species are not listed on CITES, but among those listed, 69.6% are classified under Appendix II. Considering the level of representation of animals of conservation concerns, the harvesting and trade of animal parts for traditional medicine must be regulated. This call is even more urgent since 40.0% of the top ten traded animals are mammals; a class of animals with long gestation periods and are not prolific breeders.

From Plant Based Therapy to Plant-Derived Vesicle-Like Nanoparticles for Cancer Treatment: Past, Present and Future

Cancer stands as a formidable malady profoundly impacting human health. Throughout history, plant-based therapies have remained pivotal in the arsenal against cancer, evolving alongside the epochs. Presently, challenges such as the arduous extraction of active components and potential safety concerns impede the progression of plant-based anticancer therapies. The isolation of plant-derived vesicle-like nanoparticles (PDVLNs), a kind of lipid bilayer capsules isolated from plants, has brought plant-based anticancer therapy into a novel realm and has led to decades of research on PDVLNs. Accumulating evidence indicates that PDVLNs can deliver plant-derived active substances to human cells and regulate cellular functions. Regulating immunity, inducing cell cycle arrest, and promoting apoptosis in cancer cells are the most commonly reported mechanisms of PDVLNs in tumor suppression. Low immunogenicity and lack of tumorigenicity make PDVLNs a good platform for drug delivery. The molecules within the PDVLNs are all from source plants, so the selection of source plants is crucial. In recent years, there has been a clear trend that the source plants have changed from vegetables or fruits to medicinal plants. This review highlights the mechanisms of medicinal plant-based cancer therapies to identify candidate source plants. More importantly, the current research on PDVLN-based cancer therapy and the applications of PDVLNs for drug delivery are systematically discussed.

Determination of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant and antibacterial potential of the bark extracts of Syzygium guineense (Wild.) DC

BACKGROUND

Syzygium guineense (Wild.) DC. is a wild indigenous tree widely used as a traditional medicine for various human ailments in Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was to quantify total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) contents and determine the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of various solvent extracts of the bark of the plant.

METHODS

The TPC and TFC were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. The 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, ferric-reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant activities. Antibacterial properties were determined using the disc-diffusion and broth dilution assays.

RESULTS

The ethanol extract of the bark was found to have high TPC (37.80 ± 3.70 mgGAE/g) and TFC (19.22 ± 1.44 mgQE/g). Similarly, the ethanol extract showed stronger DPPH scavenging activity (EC50 = 5.62 μg/mL). The ferric-reducing power and total antioxidant capacity were also strong (163.08±11.67 mgAAE/g and 143.72±2.86 mgBHTE/g of dried extract of 1 mg/mL, respectively). The lowest MIC was observed in acetone extract against S. aureus (1.56 mg/mL) and in ethanol extract against K. pneumoniae (1.56 mg/mL).

CONCLUSION

The ethanol extract of the bark of S. guineense possesses high TPC and TFC. In addition, it showed strong ferric-reducing power and total antioxidant capacity, asserting high antioxidant content. The extracts have shown antibacterial activities against both Gram-positive (S. aureus) and Gram-negative bacterial species. Thus, further in-depth investigations may warrant the isolation of powerful antioxidants and potent antimicrobial agents from the plant.

Antinociceptive and antineuropathic effects of Trifolium resupinatum L. on formalin-induced nociception and cervical spinal cord hemi-contusion: Underlying Mechanisms

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Trifolium resupinatum L. (Fabaceae), known as Persian clover, ethnomedicinally used in Persian folk medicine to treat peritoneal inflammation, rheumatism, and back pain.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the antineuropathic and antinociceptive activities of Trifolium resupinatum leaves essential oil (TREO) in male Wistar rats, as well as to explore the potential mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antinociceptive activity of TREO and its main constituents, quercetin (Qc) was assessed using the formalin-induced paw licking test. Moreover, the potential mechanisms of antinociception were evaluated through various competitive and non-competitive antagonisms. Additionally, the antineuropathic potential was investigated using the cervical spinal cord hemi-contusion (CCS) model, and the role of phosphorylated Stat-3 was analyzed using Western blotting.

RESULTS

TREO exerted significant antinociceptive activity (P < 0.01) in both phases of the formalin-induced test; however, its effects were more pronounced in the second phase. Modulators of the NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathway significantly reversed the antinociceptive activity of TREO (P < 0.05). Additionally, antagonists of TRPV1 and TRPV2, as well as CB1 and GABAA receptors, significantly reversed the antinociceptive effects of TREO (P < 0.05). In another study, both TREO and Qc significantly attenuated hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia (P < 0.01) when evaluated using the CCS-induced nociception model. Notably, TREO also reduced the expression levels of interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-2, and tumor necrosis factor alpha in CCS-induced rats (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

TREO and Qc exhibit both antinociceptive and anti-neuropathic activities. The antinociceptive effects are partially mediated through the NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathways, along with the activation of TRPV, GABA, and cannabinoid receptors. Furthermore, the anti-neuropathic activity of TREO may be partially regulated through the inhibition of cytokines.

Profiling of antioxidant properties and identification of potential analgesic inhibitory activities of Allophylus villosus and Mycetia sinensis employing in vivo, in vitro, and computational techniques

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The traditional use of plants for medicinal purposes, called phytomedicine, has been known to provide relief from pain. In Bangladesh, the Chakma indigenous community has been using Allophylus villosus and Mycetia sinensis to treat various types of pain and inflammation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The object of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of these plants in relieving pain and their antioxidant properties using various approaches such as in vitro, in vivo, and computational techniques. Additionally, the investigation will also analyse the phytochemicals present in these plants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted in vivo analgesic experiment on Swiss albino mice and in-silico inhibitory activities on COX-2 & 15-LOX-2 enzymes. Assessment of DPPH, Anti Radical Activities (ARA), FRAP, H2O2 Free Radical Scavenging, Reducing the power of both plants performed significant % inhibition with tolerable IC50. Qualitative screening of functional groups of phytochemicals was précised by FTIR and GC-MS analysis demonstrated phytochemical investigations.

RESULTS

The ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fractioned Mycetia sinensis extract as well as the ethanoic extract and all fractioned extracts of Allophylus villosus have reported a significant percentage (%) of writhing inhibition (p < 0.05) with the concentrated doses 250 mg as well as 500 mg among the Swiss albino mice for writhing observation of analgesic effect. In the silico observation, a molecular-docking investigation has performed according to GC-MS generated 43 phyto-compounds of both plants to screen their binding affinity by targeting COX-2 and 15-LOX-2 enzymes. Consequently, in order to assess and ascertain the effectiveness of the sorted phytocompounds, ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) investigation, DFT (Density-functional theory) by QM (Quantum mechanics), and MDS (Molecular dynamics simulation) were carried out. As the outcome, compounds like 5-(2,4-ditert-butylphenoxy)-5-oxopentanoic acid; 2,4-ditert-butylphenyl 5-hydroxypentanoate; 3,3-diphenyl-5-methyl-3H-pyrazole; 2-O-(6-methylheptan-2-yl) 1-O-octyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate and dioctan-3-yl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate derived from the ethnic plant A. villosus and another ethnic plant M. sinensis extracts enchants magnificent analgesic inhibitions and performed more significant drug like activities with the targeted enzymes.

CONCLUSIONS

Phytocompounds from A. villosus & M. sinensis exhibited potential antagonist activity against human 15-lipoxygenase-2 and cyclooxygenase-2 proteins. The effective ester compounds from these plants performed more potential anti-nociceptive activity which could be used as a drug in future.

Advancing Treatment for Leishmaniasis: From Overcoming Challenges to Embracing Therapeutic Innovations

Protozoan parasite infections, particularly leishmaniasis, present significant public health challenges in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting socio-economic status and growth. Despite advancements in immunology, effective vaccines remain vague, leaving drug treatments as the primary intervention. However, existing medications face limitations, such as toxicity and the rise of drug-resistant parasites. This presents an urgent need to identify new therapeutic targets for leishmaniasis treatment. Understanding the complex life cycle of Leishmania and its survival in host macrophages can provide insights into potential targets for intervention. Current treatments, including antimonials, amphotericin B, and miltefosine, are constrained by side effects, costs, resistance, and reduced efficacy. Exploring novel therapeutic targets within the parasite's physiology, such as key metabolic enzymes or essential surface proteins, may lead to the development of more effective and less toxic drugs. Additionally, innovative strategies like drug repurposing, combination therapies, and nanotechnology-based delivery systems could enhance efficacy and combat resistance, thus improving anti-leishmanial therapies.

Exploring the anti-aging potential of natural products and plant extracts in budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae: A review

Historically, plant derived natural products and their crude extracts have been used to treat a wide range of ailments across the world. Biogerontology research aims to explore the molecular basis of aging and discover new anti-aging therapeutic compounds or formulations to combat the detrimental effects of aging and promote a healthy life span. The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been, and continues to be, an indispensable model organism in the field of biomedical research for discovering the molecular basis of aging S. cerevisiae has preserved nutritional signaling pathways (such as the target of rapamycin (TOR)-Sch9 and the Ras-AC-PKA (cAMP-dependent protein kinase) pathways, and shows two distinct aging paradigms chronological life span (CLS) and replicative life span (RLS). This review explores the anti-aging properties of natural products, predominantly derived from plants, and phytoextracts using S. cerevisiae as a model organism.

Efficacy of foliar application of Chlorella vulgaris extract on chemical composition and biological activities of the essential oil of spearmint (Mentha spicata L.)

The microalgal have an essential role in agriculture, where they are used as biofertilizers. This study aimed to determine the effect of C. vulgaris extract on the chemical composition and biological activities of the Essential Oil (EO) of Mentha spicata. The extract of C. vulgaris was prepared and applied at three different concentrations (50, 75, and 100 %). The EOs of M. spicata were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The DPPH radical scavenging capability and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) techniques were used to assess the antioxidant activity of EOs. The antimicrobial activity of EO was evaluated using the microdilution method against Staphylococcus aureus. The results of GC-MS analysis of EOs identified 46 components, with Carvone (77.5-65.4 %), Limonene (10.31-6.9 %), β-elemene (1.56-0.98 %), and Caryophyllene (10.92-4.77 %) being the predominant constituents. From the highest concentration ranged from 100 % C. vulgaris extract to control respectively, yield and EO content ranged from 171.24 to 131.74 g/m2 and 0.34 to 0.18 %, respectively; Antioxidant activity by DPPH and FRAP methods varied from 1.56 to 4.45 mg/mL, and 405.63 to 68.68 μMFe2+/g, respectively; the Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) ranged from 2.4 to 9.6 mg/mL in various treatments. The results indicated that the C. vulgaris extract significantly increased the yield, EO%, Carvone, Limonene, and antioxidant and antibacterial activities compared to the control. The extract of C. vulgaris showed promise as a biofertilizer to enhance the yield, chemical composition, and biological activities of M. spicata.

Chemical profiling by UHPLC-Q-TOF-HRESI-MS/MS and antibacterial properties of Entada abyssinica (Fabaceae) constituents

A rapid untargeted UHPLC-Q-TOF-ESI-MS/MS-Based metabolomic profiling of the medicinal plant Entada abyssinica was performed. A total of 18 metabolites were detected, of which 10 could not be identified. Based on this result, an extensive chemical investigation of the CH2Cl2-MeOH (1:1) extract of this plant was carried out, leading to the isolation of a new ceramide, named entadamide (1), together with nine known compounds: monomethyl kolavate (2), 24-hydroxytormentic acid (3) chondrillasterol (4), 3-O-β-D glucopyranosylstigmasterol (5), 3-O-β-D glucopyranosylsitosterol (6), quercetin 3'-methylether (7), 2,3-dihydroxypropyl icosanoate (8), 2,3-dihydroxy-propyl 23-hydroxytricosanoate (9) and 2,3-dihydroxy-propyl 24-hydroxytetracosanoate (10). Their structures were elucidated by the analyses of their spectroscopic and spectrometric data (1D and 2D NMR, and HRESI-MS) in comparison with those reported in the literature. Furthermore, the crude extract and some isolated compounds were tested against non-ciprofloxacin resistant strains viz, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Samonella thyphi (ATCC 19430) and Samonella enterica (NR4294). The tested samples demonstrated significant activity against all the tested bacteria (MIC values: 3.12-12.5 μg/mL).

Herbal extracts in orofacial pain: a systematic review and direct and indirect meta-analysis

The pharmaceutical industry has been primarily focused on developing synthetic drugs to address orofacial pain (OFP)-related conditions. There is limited knowledge regarding the efficacy of the use of herbal extracts in treating OFP. A systematic review and a meta-analysis of 62 randomized controlled trials assessing the analgesic effects of herbal extracts on pain intensity in various orofacial conditions was conducted. The intervention comprised the use of herbal extracts compared with a placebo and/or standard treatment. The primary outcome was pain intensity assessed before and after the intervention. The pain scores were compared with the baseline scores in each treatment. When compared with standard therapy, the pooled results of the patients who received herbal extracts revealed lower pain intensity in periodontal pain (MD = -0.92[-6.69, 4.85]), oral surgery pain (MD = 18.80[8.80, 28.79]), oral neuropathic pain (MD = 20.34[6.16, 34.52]), endodontic pain (MD = -8.04[-11.72, -4.37]), oral mucosal pain (MD = 8.74[2.76, 14.73]), and temporomandibular pain (MD = 30.94[6.04, 55.83]). The findings indicated a pain-attenuating effect of herbal extracts such as cannabis, turmeric, capsaicin, licorice, ginger, chamomile, clove, Hypericum perforatum, and Arnica montana. These findings revindicate that herbal extracts may be valuable alternatives to traditional pain medications and promising source for the development of new active ingredients for pharmaceuticals.

Natural Products with Potential for the Treatment of Pain: Global Evidence from the NAPRALERT Database

Natural products (NPs) continue to inform the discovery and development of a diversity of drugs, both marketed and investigational. Pain, one of the most common of human experiences and profound challenges in medicine and biology, has emerged at the core of an urgent societal problem, in the United States and globally. The present study employs a retrospective analysis of an extensive set of published literature curated in the NAPRALERT database to identify NPs with experimental evidence of bioactivity supporting the selection and prioritization of NP leads with promise in pain management. The NAPRALERT pain data set currently documents >38,000 pain-relevant experiments reported in >1,750 distinct journals. The evidence presented here was annotated from >10,000 distinct scientific publications identifying NP extracts and isolates with experimental biological data indicating positive mitigation of pain, inflammation, and/or modulation of nociceptive signaling targets. Correlation of ethnomedical uses with experimental data represents a value-added approach to the selection and prioritization of leads. Dissemination of this unique NP/pain data set, with experimental data and information applicable to basic, translational, and clinical science stakeholders alike, furnishes practical evidence in support of a rational selection of NPs for directed pain research. A large portion of the NAPRALERT pain-relevant data set, along with a set of query tools designed to assist user-directed selection and prioritization of leads, are presented as Supporting Information in order to mitigate the limitations inherent in presenting such a large data set in (print) format. To support user efforts, this report involves explication of NAPRALERT data organization and the articulation of rational approaches to user-guided selection of evidence-based NP leads.

Genus Berberis: A Comprehensive and Updated Review on Ethnobotanical Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities

Genus Berberis is an excellent choice for research due to its history in traditional medicine, diverse pharmacological properties, and it has potential for drug discovery. This review presents information on the ethnobotany, pharmacological activities, and many phytochemicals identified from Berberis species. It examines the existing literature on the genus Berberis, drawn from online databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, Elsevier, and Google Scholar, etc encompassing the data from 1960 to 2023. This review focuses on the structural details of reported phytochemicals of Berberis species and pharmacological actions. Different extraction techniques were evaluated for extracts preparation. According to literature review, phytochemical analysis exhibited the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. A major bioactive alkaloid, berberine exhibits its main role in treatment of many gastric, infectious, and chronic disorders. This literature indicates that Berberis genus exhibits a variety of biological activities, i.e anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, antidiabetic and antioxidant activities and utilization of these effects in the treatment and management of various diseases, like diabetes, microbial infections, inflammation, liver disorders, and cancer. However, conventional medicines, validation of traditional uses, and in-depth phytochemical analysis are areas of research in genus Berberis.

Anticancer potential of phytochemicals derived from mangrove plants: Comprehensive mechanistic insights

Cancer is a collection of illnesses characterized by aberrant cellular proliferation that can infiltrate or metastasize to distant anatomical sites, posing a notable threat to human well-being due to its substantial morbidity and death rates worldwide. The potential of plant-derived natural compounds as anticancer medicines has been assessed owing to their favorable attributes of few side effects and significant antitumor activity. Mangrove plants and their derived compounds have been scientifically shown to exhibit many significant beneficial biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective properties. This study summarized mangrove plants and their derived compounds as potential anticancer agents, with an emphasis on the underlying molecular mechanisms. To explore this, we gathered data on the preclinical (in vivo and in vitro) anticancer effects of mangrove plants and their derived compounds from reputable literature spanning 2000 to 2023. We conducted thorough searches in various academic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, Scopus, and the Web of Science. The results demonstrated that mangrove plants and their derived compounds have promising anticancer properties in preclinical pharmacological test systems through various molecular mechanisms, including induction of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, antiproliferative, antimetastatic, and other miscellaneous actions. Upon thorough observation of the pertinent information, it is suggested that mangrove plants and their derived chemicals may serve as a potential lead in the development of novel drugs for cancer therapy.

Fangchinoline targets human renal cell carcinoma cells through modulation of apoptotic and non‑apoptotic cell deaths

The process of apoptosis is one of the essential processes involved in maintenance of homeostasis in the human body. It can aid to remove misfolded proteins or cellular organelles. This sequence is especially necessary in cancer cells. However, specifically targeting already apoptotic pathways can induce drug resistance in cancer cells and hence drugs can induce cell death by alternative mechanism. We investigated whether fangchinoline (FCN) can target renal carcinoma cells by inducing multiple cell death mechanisms. Both paraptosis, autophagy, and apoptosis were induced by FCN through stimulation of diverse molecular signaling pathways. FCN induced ROS production with GSH/GSSG imbalance, and ER stress. In addition, formation of autophagosome and autophagy related markers were stimulated by FCN. Moreover, FCN induced cell cycle arrest and PARP cleavage. Except for blocking protein synthesis, these three cell death pathways were found to be complementarily working together with each other. FCN also exhibited synergistic effects with paclitaxel in inducing programmed cell death in RCC cells. Our data indicates that FCN could induce apoptotic cell death and non-apoptotic cell death pathways and can be con-tribute to development of novel cancer prevention or therapy.

Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemistry of medicinal plants used in the management of HIV/AIDS in Eastern Uganda

Currently, highly active antiretroviral therapy is unable to cure HIV/AIDS because of HIV latency. This study aimed at documenting medicinal plants used in the management of HIV/AIDS in Eastern Uganda so as to identify phytochemicals with HIV latency reversing potential. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted across eight districts in Eastern Uganda. Traditional medicine practitioners were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical tests were respectively, performed to determine the presence and quantity of phytochemicals in frequently mentioned plant species. Data were analysed and presented using descriptive statistics and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). Twenty-one plant species from fourteen plant families were reported to be used in the management of HIV/AIDS. Six plant species with the highest frequency of mention were: Zanthoxylum chalybeum, Gymnosporia senegalensis, Warbugia ugandensis, Leonatis nepetifolia, Croton macrostachyus and Rhoicissus tridentata. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of all the six most frequently mentioned plant species revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids and phenolics. Quantitative analysis revealed the highest content of flavonoids in L. nepetifolia (20.4 mg/g of dry extract) while the lowest content was determined in C. macrostachyus (7.1 mg/g of dry extract). On the other hand, the highest content of tannins was observed in L. nepetifolia. (199.9 mg/g of dry extract) while the lowest content was found in R. tridentata. (42.6 mg/g of dry extract). Medicinal plants used by traditional medicine practitioners in Eastern Uganda to manage HIV/AIDS are rich in phytochemicals including flavonoids and tannins. Further studies to evaluate the HIV-1 latency reversing ability of these phytochemicals are recommended to discover novel molecules against HIV/AIDS.

Medicinal plants with promising antileishmanial activity in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Toxicity and resistance to chemotherapy used to treat leishmaniasis are increasing. Research on natural plant compounds has revealed their antileishmanial effects on certain Leishmania organisms. This review aimed to estimate the pooled IC50 values of medicinal plants with promising antileishmanial activity in Ethiopia.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using Science Direct, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to locate potential studies. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals and gray literature in university repositories before April 1, 2022, which included a full-length study reporting the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Ethiopian medicinal plants that were written in English were included. Conference proceedings, review articles, letters to the editor, and correspondence were excluded. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the GIVIMP critical appraisal tools. Heterogeneity between studies was verified using Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test statistics, and the effects were checked using Egger statistical test at a level of significance. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled IC50 of the medicinal plants.

RESULTS

Six articles that were conducted in Ethiopia that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with a total of 62 in vitro experiments, were reviewed. The aggregated mean IC50 for medicinal plants in Ethiopia was 16.80 (95% CI: 12.44, 21.16) and 13.81 (95% CI: 13.12, 14.50) µg/mL for antipromastigote and antiamastigote activity, respectively. Aqueous was the significant preparation with IC50 of 0.53 (0.34, 0.73) µg/mL against promastigote and 0.98 (0.20, 1.76) µg/mL against the amastigote stage.

DISCUSSION

This review indicated that the pooled mean of IC50 for Ethiopian medicinal plants against promastigotes and amastigotes was relatively low and showed better efficacy. This strongly suggests the need to focus on antipromastigote and antiamastigote medicinal plants in Ethiopia for the development of antileishmanial drugs. It is necessary to identify their active components, and their potential toxic effects can lead to the production of well-tolerated and safe drugs for leishmaniasis. The high heterogeneity is the limitation of this study.

REGISTRATION

The review has been registered at Prospero with identification number CRD42022343543.

Inhibition of Human Colorectal Cancer by a Natural Product 7-Acetylhorminone and Interactions with BSA/HSA: Multispectral Analysis and In Silico and In Vitro Studies

We have semi-synthesized a natural product 7-acetylhorminone from crude extract of Premna obtusifolia (Indian headache tree), which is active against colorectal cancer after probation through computational screening methods as it passed through the set parameters of pharmacokinetics (most important nonblood-brain barrier permeant) and drug likeliness (e.g., Lipinski's, Ghose's, Veber's rule) which most other phytoconstituents failed to pass combined with docking with EGFR protein which is highly upregulated in the colorectal carcinoma cell. The structure of 7-acetylhorminone was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction studies and 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and COSY studies. To validate the theoretical studies, first, in vitro experiments were carried out against human colorectal carcinoma cell lines (HCT116) which revealed the potent cytotoxic efficacy of 7-acetylhorminone and verified preliminary investigation. Second, the drugability of 7-acetylhorminone interaction with serum albumin proteins (HSA and BSA) is evaluated both theoretically and experimentally via steady-state fluorescence spectroscopic studies, circular dichroism, isothermal titration calorimetry, and molecular docking. In summary, this study reveals the applicability of 7-acetylhorminone as a potent drug candidate or as a combinatorial drug against colorectal cancer.

Dietary phenolic compounds as promising therapeutic agents for diabetes and its complications: A comprehensive review

In the middle of an ever-changing landscape of diabetes care, precision medicine, and lifestyle therapies are becoming increasingly important. Dietary polyphenols are like hidden allies found in our everyday meals. These biomolecules, found commonly in fruits, vegetables, and various plant-based sources, hold revolutionary potential within their molecular structure in the way we approach diabetes and its intimidating consequences. There are currently numerous types of diabetes medications, but they are not appropriate for all patients due to limitations in dosages, side effects, drug resistance, a lack of efficacy, and ethnicity. Currently, there has been increased interest in practicing herbal remedies to manage diabetes and its related complications. This article aims to summarize the potential of dietary polyphenols as a foundation in the treatment of diabetes and its associated consequences. We found that most polyphenols inhibit enzymes linked to diabetes. This review outlines the potential benefits of selected molecules, including kaempferol, catechins, rosmarinic acid, apigenin, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid, in managing diabetes mellitus as these compounds have exhibited promising results in in vitro, in vivo, in silico, and some preclinical trials study. This encompassing exploration reveals the multifaceted impact of polyphenols not only in mitigating diabetes but also in addressing associated conditions like inflammation, obesity, and even cancer. Their mechanisms involve antioxidant functions, immune modulation, and proinflammatory enzyme regulation. Furthermore, these molecules exhibit anti-tumor activities, influence cellular pathways, and activate AMPK pathways, offering a less toxic, cost-effective, and sustainable approach to addressing diabetes and its complications.

Evaluation of In-Vitro Studies of the Shalmali Extract on Human Endometrial Stromal Cells

The utilization of herbal formulations for the management of reproductive tract disorders has been a longstanding practice in traditional medicine. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of a herbal extract, Shalmali (Bombax ceiba), in addressing uterine bleeding, a common concern in gynecological health. Through gene expression analysis, this study examined the impact of Shalmali extract on key genes associated with uterine bleeding, namely ESR1, CD56, and SDF-1, in the human endometrial stromal cell line (T HESC). Our findings revealed a dose-dependent decrease in ESR1 and CD56 gene expression levels following treatment with Shalmali extract, suggesting its potential to modulate hormonal and cellular processes involved in uterine bleeding. Notably, an increase in SDF-1 gene expression was observed, indicating a possible role of Shalmali extract in promoting tissue repair and regeneration. Comparison with the standard drug tranexamic acid demonstrated similar effects on gene expression levels, further validating the therapeutic potential of Shalmali extract. Agarose gel electrophoresis images supported these findings, showing reduced gene expression in cells treated with Shalmali extract comparable to those treated with tranexamic acid. These results underscore the promising efficacy of Shalmali extract as a natural alternative for managing uterine bleeding, potentially offering a safe and effective treatment option for individuals seeking traditional remedies for gynecological concerns. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action and assess the long-term safety and efficacy of Shalmali extract in clinical settings.

A comprehensive review on the phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and in vitro propagation of an endemic medicinal orchid, Dactylorhiza hatagirea

Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soo, also known as Himalayan Marsh Orchid or Salam Panja, belongs to the Orchidaceae family. It is found in sub-alpine to alpine regions at 2500-5000 m above sea level. The present review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the botany, phytochemistry, medicinal uses, toxicity, and conservation status of D. hatagirea and to find the research gaps to promote progress in studies of this orchid. Secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, and saponins, were reported from the aerial and underground parts of this medicinal orchid. Several phytocompounds, such as dactylorhins A, B, C, D, and E and dactylose A and B, were isolated from the dried roots of D. hatagirea. A wide range of in vitro and in vivo assays was used to assess the biological properties of D. hatagirea, such as antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, diuretic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, wound healing, hypoglycemic, antitumor, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer activities. It was also reported to boost testosterone levels, improving sexual desire and arousal. Due to overexploitation and a restricted habitat range, this essential medicinal plant has reached the extinction stage; therefore, a conservation-friendly harvesting approach is needed for this medicinal herb. In vitro techniques such as micropropagation, synthetic seed generation, and hairy root technology can contribute to its conservation. This review provides comprehensive insights into the botanical features, traditional uses, phytochemicals, pharmacological importance, and toxicity evaluation of this medicinal orchid. This review also provides detailed information on the conservation status of D. hatagirea and strategies to overcome the exploitation of this orchid.

Ginsenoside Rk3 Regulates Tryptophan Metabolism along the Brain-Gut Axis by Targeting Tryptophan Hydroxylase and Remodeling the Intestinal Microenvironment to Alleviate Depressive-Like Behavior in Mice

Depression is a neuropsychiatric disease that significantly impacts the physical and mental health of >300 million people worldwide and places a major burden on society. Ginsenosides are the main active ingredient in ginseng and have been proven to have various pharmacological effects on the nervous system. Herein, we investigated the antidepressant effect of ginsenoside Rk3 and its underlying mechanism in a murine model of depression. Rk3 significantly improved depression-like behavior in mice, ameliorated the disturbance of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, and alleviated neuronal damage in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of mice. Additionally, Rk3 improved the abnormal metabolism of tryptophan in brain tissue by targeting tryptophan hydroxylase, thereby reducing neuronal apoptosis and synaptic structural damage in the mouse hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, Rk3 reshaped the composition of the gut microbiota of mice and regulated intestinal tryptophan metabolism, which alleviated intestinal barrier damage. Thus, this study provides valuable insights into the role of Rk3 in the tryptophan metabolic cycle along the brain-gut axis, suggesting that Rk3 may have the potential for treating depression.

A comprehensive review of phytochemicals of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) as antiviral therapeutics

Viruses have caused millions and billions of infections and high mortality rates without successful immunization due to a lack of antiviral drugs approved for clinical use. Therefore, the discovery of novel antiviral drugs is impertinent and natural products are excellent alternative sources. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) is recognized as one of the most significant herbs in the Ayurvedic system and it had been utilized in various biological actions for more than 3000 years. This review aimed to discuss the therapeutic effects and associated molecular mechanisms of Withania somnifera (WS) and its phytochemicals, withanolides against various viruses in preclinical and clinical settings towards developing potential inhibitors which could target virus proteins or their respective host cell receptors. WS was reported to attenuate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), serve as a potential ligand against the herpes simplex virus (HSV) DNA polymerase, suppress Alzheimer’s disease progression by inhibiting the cytotoxicity induced by the human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1)-activated beta-amyloid (Aβ), and attenuate the neuraminidase activity of H1N1 influenza. WS root extracts have also reduced the mortality rates and stress levels in tilapia infected with tilapia lake virus (TiLV), and stimulated antiviral nitric oxide formation in chicks infected with infectious bursal disease (IBD). With increasing evidence from previous literatures, further in vitro and in vivo investigations of WS against other viral infections may provide promising results.

Graphical Abstract

Herbal compounds as promising therapeutic agents in precision medicine strategies for cancer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The field of personalized medicine has gained increasing attention in cancer care, with the aim of tailoring treatment strategies to individual patients for improved outcomes. Herbal medicine, with its long-standing historical use and extensive bioactive compounds, offers a rich source of potential treatments for various diseases, including cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an overview of the current knowledge and evidence associated with incorporating herbal compounds into precision medicine strategies for cancer diseases. Additionally, to explore the general characteristics of the studies included in the analysis, focusing on their key features and trends.

SEARCH STRATEGY

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from multiple online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL-EBSCO. The search strategy was designed to identify studies related to personalized cancer medicine and herbal interventions.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Publications pertaining to cancer research conducted through in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, employing natural products were included in this review.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently applied inclusion and inclusion criteria, data extraction, and assessments of methodological quality. The quality assessment and biases of the studies were evaluated based on modified Jadad scales. A detailed quantitative summary of the included studies is presented, providing a comprehensive description of their key features and findings.

RESULTS

A total of 121 studies were included in this review for analysis. Some of them were considered as comprehensive experimental investigations both in vitro and in vivo. The majority (n = 85) of the studies included in this review were conducted in vitro, with 44 of them specifically investigating the effects of herbal medicine on animal models. Additionally, 7 articles with a combined sample size of 31,271 patients, examined the impact of herbal medicine in clinical settings.

CONCLUSION

Personalized medication can optimize the use of herbal medicine in cancer treatment by considering individual patient factors such as genetics, medical history, and other treatments. Additionally, active phytochemicals found in herbs have shown potential for inhibiting cancer cell growth and inducing apoptosis, making them a promising area of research in preclinical and clinical investigations. Please cite this article as: Tayeb BA, Kusuma IY, Osman AAM, Minorics R. Herbal compounds as promising therapeutic agents in precision medicine strategies for cancer: A systematic review. J Integr Med. 2024; 22(2): 137-162.

Phytocompounds as potential inhibitors of mycobacterial multidrug efflux pump Rv1258c: an in silico approach

The number of infections and deaths caused by multidrug resistant (MDR) tuberculosis is increasing globally. One of the efflux pumps, that makes Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistant to a number of antibiotics and results in unfavourable treatment results is Tap or Rv1258c. In our study, we tried to utilize a rational drug design technique using in silico approach to look for an efficient and secure efflux pump inhibitor (EPI) against Rv1258c. The structure of Rv1258c was built using the homology modeling tool MODELLER 9.24. 210 phytocompounds were used for blind and site-specific ligand docking against the modelled structure of Rv1258c using AutoDock Vina software. The best docked plant compounds were further analysed for druglikeness and toxicity. In addition to having excellent docking scores, two plant compounds-ellagic acid and baicalein-also exhibited highly desirable drug-like qualities. These substances outperform more well-known EPIs like piperine and verapamil in terms of effectiveness. This data shows that these two compounds might be further investigated for their potential as Rv1258c inhibitors.

Efficacy and Mechanisms of Natural Products as Therapeutic Interventions for Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Chronic respiratory diseases are long-term conditions affecting the airways and other lung components that are characterized by a high prevalence, disability rate, and mortality rate. Further optimization of their treatment is required. Natural products, primarily extracted from organisms, possess specific molecular and structural formulas as well as distinct chemical and physical properties. These characteristics grant them the advantages of safety, gentleness, accessibility, and minimal side effects. The numerous advances in the use of natural products for treating chronic respiratory diseases have provided a steady source of motivation for new drug research and development. In this paper, we introduced the pathogenesis of chronic respiratory diseases and natural products. Furthermore, we classified natural products according to their mechanism for treating chronic respiratory diseases and describe the ways in which these products can alleviate the pathological symptoms. Simultaneously, we elaborate on the signal transduction pathways and biological impacts of natural products' targeting. Additionally, we present future prospects for natural products, considering their combination treatment approaches and administration methods. The significance of this review extends to both the research on preventing and treating chronic respiratory diseases, as well as the advancement of novel drug development in this field.

Analytical Strategies to Investigate Molecular Signaling, Proteomics, Extraction and Quantification of Withanolides - A Comprehensive Review

Withanolides are the class of steroidal molecules getting greater emphasis in recent years. Quality control throughout the manufacturing and storage period is often one of the key problems that have restricted their broad use in India's indigenous and Ayurvedic medical systems for thousands of years. Because of their diverse clinical potential, withanolides have received a great deal of scientific attention. Analytical techniques are being devised for the automated isolation, identification, and estimation of every single protein within the cell as well as in herbal extracts of withanolides, due to which now researchers are interested in determining the effects of metabolism as well as various stimuli on protein expression, which made the study easier. This study discusses the potential use of hyphenated analytical methods that are reliable in understanding the molecular signaling features, proteome evaluation and characterization of withanolides, in addition to examining existing methodological limitations. The choice of analytical techniques for the withanolides analysis, however, relies on the nature of the sample matrix, the aim of the analysis, and the sensitivity of the technique.

Design and characterization of a binary CT complex of imidazole-oxyresveratrol: exploring its pharmacological and computational aspects

A new binary charge transfer (CT) complex between imidazole (IMZ) and oxyresveratrol (OXA) was synthesized and characterized experimentally and theoretically. The experimental work was carried out in solution and solid state in selected solvents such as chloroform (CHL), methanol (Me-OH), ethanol (Et-OH), and acetonitrile (AN). The newly synthesized CT complex (D1) has been characterized by various techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, FTIR, 1H-NMR, and powder-XRD. The 1:1 composition of D1 is confirmed by Jobs' method of continuous variation and spectrophotometric (at λmax 554 nm) methods at 298 K. The infrared spectra of D1 confirmed the existence of proton transfer hydrogen bond beside charge transfer interaction. These findings indicate that the cation and anion are joined together by the weak hydrogen bonding as N+-H-O-. Reactivity parameters strongly recommended that IMZ behaves as a good electron donor and OXA an efficient electron acceptor. Density functional theory (DFT) computations with basis set B3LYP/6-31G (d,p) was applied to support the experimental results. TD-DFT calculations gives HOMO (-5.12 eV) → LUMO (-1.14 eV) electronic energy gap (Δ E ) to be 3.80 eV. The bioorganic chemistry of D1 was well established after antioxidant, antimicrobial, and toxicity screening in Wistar rat. The type of interactions between HSA and D1 at the molecular level was studied through fluorescence spectroscopy. Binding constant along with the type of quenching mechanism, was investigated through the Stern-Volmer equation. Molecular docking demonstrated that D1 binds perfectly with human serum albumin and EGFR (1M17) and exposes free energy of binding (FEB) values of -295.2 and -283.3 kcal/mol, respectively. The D1 fits successfully into the minor groove of HAS and 1M17, the results of molecular docking show that the D1 binds perfectly with the HAS and 1M17, the higher value of binding energy shows stronger interaction between HAS and 1M17 with D1. Our synthesized complex shows good binding results with HAS compared to 1M17.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Proposing of fungal endophyte secondary metabolites as a potential inhibitors of 2019-novel coronavirus main protease using docking and molecular dynamics

In this study, the inhibitory potential of 99 fungal derived secondary metabolites was predicted against SARS-CoV-2 main protease by using of computational approaches. This protein plays an important role in replication and is one of the important targets to inhibit viral reproduction. Among the 99 reported compounds, the 9 of them with the highest binding energy to Mpro obtained from the molecular docking method were selected for the molecular dynamic simulations. The compounds were then investigated by using the SwissADME serve to evaluate the compounds in terms of pharmacokinetic and druglikness properties. The overall results of different analysis show that the compound RKS-1778 is potentially more effective than others and form strong complexes with viral protease. It also had better pharmacokinetic properties than other metabolites, so predicted to be a suitable candidate as anti SARS-CoV-2 bioactive.

Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley Hydromethanolic Extract: Bioactive Compounds Identification, Hypotensive Mechanism, and Cardioprotective Potential Exploration

Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley (FIP), a member of the Papaveraceae family, has a documented history of use in traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular ailments, particularly hypertension, and has shown substantial therapeutic efficacy among native cultures worldwide. However, the identification of bioactive compounds and the mechanism of hypotensive effect with the cardioprotective potential investigations are yet to be determined. The study aimed to identify bioactive compounds, explore the hypotensive mechanism and cardioprotective potential, and assess the safety of Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley hydromethanolic extract (Fip.Cr). LC ESI-MS/MS analysis was performed to identify the bioactive compounds. In vitro experiments were conducted on isolated rat aorta and atria, and an in vivo invasive BP measurement model was used. Acute and subacute toxicities were assessed for 14 and 28 days, respectively. Isoproterenol (ISO) was used to develop the rats' myocardial infarction damage model. The mRNA levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and the abundance level of Firmicutes and Lactobacillus were measured by qRT-PCR. The hypotensive effect of FIP bioactive compounds was also investigated using in silico methods. Fip. Cr LC ESI-MS/MS analysis discovered 33 bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids. In isolated rat aorta, Fip.Cr reversed contractions induced by K+ (80 mM), demonstrating a calcium entry-blocking function, and had a vasorelaxant impact on phenylephrine (PE) (1 μM)-induced contractions unaffected by L-NAME, ruling out endothelial NO participation. Fip.Cr caused negative chronotropic and inotropic effects in isolated rat atria unaffected by atropine pretreatment, eliminating cardiac muscarinic receptor involvement. Safety evaluation showed no major adverse effects. In vivo, invasive BP measurement demonstrated a hypotensive effect comparable to verapamil. Fip.Cr protected the rats from ISO-induced MI interventions significantly in biometrical and cardiac serum biochemical indicators and histological examinations by reducing inflammation via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and elevating Firmicutes and Lactobacillus levels. The network pharmacology study revealed that the FIP hypotensive mechanism might involve MMP9, JAK2, HMOX1, NOS2, NOS3, TEK, SERPINE1, CCL2, and VEGFA. The molecular docking study revealed that FIP bioactive compounds docked better with CAC1C_ HUMAN than verapamil. These findings demonstrated that Fip.Cr's hypotensive mechanism may include calcium channel blocker activity. Fip.Cr ameliorated ISO-induced myocardial infarction in rats by attenuating inflammation, which might be via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and may prove beneficial for treating MI.

In-vivo anti-hyperglycemic effect of herbal extracts Tribulus terrestris (L) and Curcuma amada (R) on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and its associated histopathological studies

Dia/betes is a serious health concern in many countries with high blood glucose, obesity, and multiple organ failures in late stages. Treating diabetes with effective drugs is still a challenging issue since most of the available diabetic drugs are not effective in combating diabetes, especially in secondary disease complications like obesity, retinopathy, and nephropathy associated with diabetes. Hence search for effective antidiabetic medication, especially from natural sources is mandatory with no adverse side effects. In the present study, a combined herbal aqueous extract of Tribulus terrestris and Curcuma amada was administered to diabetic-induced rats for 37 days. During experimentation, the mean blood glucose level was estimated and at the end of the experiment on the 37th day, the animal was sacrificed and observed for weight gain, plasma insulin, glycogen, glycated hemoglobin, urea, and creatinine level. The results revealed that TT and CA extract-treated diabetic groups significantly lowered the mean blood glucose level followed by increased glycogen and insulin level. Urea, creatinine, and HbA1c levels were considerably reduced in TT and CA-treated diabetic animals as compared to that of antidiabetic drug Glibenclamide-treated groups. TT and CA-treated diabetic animals showed considerable net body weight gain at the end of the experimental day. A concluding remark of the study shows that TT and CA herbal extract is effective against diabetes and it can be considered as an antidiabetic agent in ayurvedic medicine practice.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by the indigenous community of the western region of Mizoram, India

BACKGROUND

Plants have long been utilized as traditional medicines by the inhabitants. However, until recently, the traditional knowledge had not been extensively documented from the hilly state of Mizoram, India. The present study was designed to perform a quantitative analysis of ethnomedicinal plants used by Mizo tribes using quantitative ethnobotanical indices. The study attempts to find new ethnomedicinal plant species that could be a source for the discovery of new drug formulations.

METHODS

The information was obtained through extensive and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative indices such as informant consensus factor (ICF), use value (UV), fidelity level (FL), relative frequency of citation (RFC), and relative importance index (RI) were used to quantify the advantages, significance, and coverage of ethnomedicine. All the collected data were analyzed using the ethnobotanyR package in R.

RESULTS

A total of 124 ethnomedicinal plant species, distributed in 112 genera under 60 families, were documented from 206 informants. Herbs (49.19%) were the most dominant growth form, and leaves (49.19%) were the most common plant parts used for the preparation of herbal medicine while decoction (61.21%) was the most popular formulation. Asteraceae (11) were the most common families among the documented species. Digestive disease, burns, cuts, and wounds had the highest ICF value (0.94), and Lepionurus sylvestris had the highest FL (91%). Oroxylum indicum (6.25) was the most commonly utilized ethnomedicinal plant based on UV, RI had the highest value in Blumea lanceolaria (1.12), and O. indicum (0.29) had the highest RFC value. According to the findings, the traditional medicinal plant treatment is still widely used in the research area.

CONCLUSION

Documentation of new ethnomedicinal species and their therapeutic usage will encourage further phytochemical and pharmacological research, potentially leading to the discovery of new drug formulations.

A Recent Advance on Phytochemicals, Nutraceutical and Pharmacological Activities of Buckwheat

Buckwheat, a member of the Fagopyrum genus in the Polygonaceae family, is an ancient pseudocereal with noteworthy nutraceutical properties that have been relatively less explored. This crop holds great promise for the future due to its gluten-free protein, wellbalanced amino acid profile, and the presence of bioactive flavonoids that promote good health. With its gluten-free nature and a combination of beneficial nutritional components, buckwheat shows significant potential for a variety of health benefits. The objective of the present review aims to explore various nutritional and pharmacological properties of buckwheat. With the help of various search engines such as, Pubmed, Google and Semantic Scholar, research and review papers were carefully investigated and summarized in a comprehensive review. A fascinating spectrum of nutritional and pharmacological activities of common buckwheat and Tartary buckwheat were explored such as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, neurological disorders, antiobesity, anticancer, cardiovascular agents and many more. This review provides a concise overview of the current understanding of the chemical composition of both common buckwheat and Tartary buckwheat and the captivating spectrum of pharmacological activity and also underscoring their immense potential for future advancements.

Identification of antidiabetic inhibitors from Allophylus villosus and Mycetia sinensis by targeting α-glucosidase and PPAR-γ: In-vitro, in-vivo, and computational evidence

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder arising from insulin deficiency and defectiveness of the insulin receptor functioning on transcription factor where the body loses control to regulate glucose metabolism in β-cells, pancreatic and liver tissues to homeostat glucose level. Mainstream medicines used for DM are incapable of restoring normal glucose homeostasis and have side effects where medicinal plant-derived medicine administrations have been claimed to cure diabetes or at least alleviate the significant symptoms and progression of the disease by the traditional practitioners. This study focused on screening phytocompounds and their pharmacological effects on anti-hyperglycemia on Swiss Albino mice of n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extract of both plants Mycetia sinensis and Allophylus villosus as well as the in-silico investigations. Qualitative screening of phytochemicals and total phenolic and flavonoid content estimation were performed significantly in vitro analysis. FTIR and GC-MS analysis précised the functional groups and phytochemical investigations where FTIR scanned 14, 23 & 17 peaks in n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extracts of Mycetia sinensis whereas the n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol extracts of Allophylus villosus scanned 11 peaks, 18 peaks, and 29 peaks, respectively. In GC-MS, 24 chemicals were identified in Mycetia sinensis extracts, whereas 19 were identified in Allophylus villosus extracts. Moreover, both plants' ethyl acetate and ethanol fractioned extracts were reported significantly (p < 0.05) with concentrations of 250 mg and 500 mg on mice for oral glucose tolerance test, serum creatinine test and serum alkaline phosphatase test. In In silico study, a molecular docking study was done on these 43 phytocompounds identified from Mycetia sinensis and Allophylus villosus to identify their binding affinity to the target Alpha Glucosidase (AG) and Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma protein (PPARG). Therefore, ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) analysis, quantum mechanics-based DFT (density-functional theory), and molecular dynamics simulation were done to assess the effectiveness of the selected phytocompounds. According to the results, phytocompounds such as 2,4-Dit-butyl phenyl 5-hydroxypentanoate and Diazo acetic acid (1S,2S,5R)-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexyl obtained from Mycetia sinensis and Allophylus villosus extract possess excellent antidiabetic activities.

Sida cordifolia L.: Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Phytonanotechnology, and Commercial Application

BACKGROUND

After a period of prolonged indifference, where synthetic drugs were preferred, interest in the biological aspects and bioactive ingredients of plants accountable for therapeutic potential has been explored eminently. Sida cordifolia L. is a perennial herb that has been widely utilized in Indian (Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha), American, and Chinese folk medicine and herbalism practice for curing a wide range of ailments in human beings.

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this review is to elucidate indigenous knowledge parallelly with the pharmacotherapeutics potential of Sida cordifolia L. against various diseases. It is also intended to display pertinent information related to nanoparticle profiling.

METHODS

In the current comprehensive study, web-based searches were performed by using several databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, ResearchGate, Science Direct, and Scopus, to figure out relevant research work and data published in academic journals from 1930 to July, 2023 using single or combination of keywords listed herewith.

RESULTS

More than 50 chemical constituents, including quinazoline and phenethylamine alkaloids, flavones, flavonol, phytosterol, fatty acids, etc., were reported to be found in different parts of healthy plants. Apart from traditional claims and pharmacological aspects, several marketed herbal formulations and granted patents were also described.

CONCLUSION

Several in-vitro and in-vivo studies validated the usage of S. cordifolia as antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, anthelmintic, anticancer, antiulcer, cardioprotective, hypoglycemic, etc. agent. Few patents are also related to S. cordifolia, and more research work needs to be carried out for its potential granted to use as an antiviral agent and other new drug discovery molecules.

Osteogenic Activities of Trifolirhizin as a Bioactive Compound for the Differentiation of Osteogenic Cells

Plant extracts are widely used as traditional medicines. Sophora flavescens Aiton-derived natural compounds exert various beneficial effects, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, and antiregenerative activities, through their bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids. In the present study, we investigated the biological effects of an S. flavescens-derived flavonoid, trifolirhizin (trifol), on the stimulation of osteogenic processes during osteoblast differentiation. Trifol (>98% purity) was successfully isolated from the root of S. flavescens and characterized. Trifol did not exhibit cellular toxicity in osteogenic cells, but promoted alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and activity, with enhanced expression of the osteoblast differentiation markers, including Alp, ColI, and Bsp. Trifol induced nuclear runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) expression during the differentiation of osteogenic cells, and concomitantly stimulated the major osteogenic signaling proteins, including GSK3β, β-catenin, and Smad1/5/8. Among the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), Trifol activated JNK, but not ERK1/2 and p38. Trifol also increased the osteoblast-mediated bone-forming phenotypes, including transmigration, F-actin polymerization, and mineral apposition, during osteoblast differentiation. Overall, trifol exhibits bioactive activities related to osteogenic processes via differentiation, migration, and mineralization. Collectively, these results suggest that trifol may serve as an effective phytomedicine for bone diseases such as osteoporosis.

Application of the Mannich reaction in the structural modification of natural products

The Mannich reaction is commonly used to introduce N atoms into compound molecules and is thus widely applied in drug synthesis. The Mannich reaction accounts for a certain proportion of structural modifications of natural products. The introduction of Mannich bases can significantly improve the activity, hydrophilicity, and medicinal properties of compounds; therefore, the Mannich reaction is widely used for the structural modification of natural products. In this paper, the application of the Mannich reaction to the structural modification of natural products is reviewed, providing a method for the structural modification of natural products.

Nanoemulsions (O/W) prepared from essential oil extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia: synthesis, characterization, stability and evaluation of anticancerous, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities

Essential oil from Melaleuca alternifolia (also known as Tea tree essential oil, TTO) is used as traditional medicine and used as therapeutic in medicine, food and cosmetic sectors. However, this oil is highly unstable, volatile and prone to oxidation which limits its practical use. The objective of this study was synthesis of tea tree oil based O/W (oil/water) nanoemulsions (tea tree essential oil nanoemulsions, TNE) and evaluation of its biological potential. Physiological characterization was carried out using UV, fluorescent, and FT-IR techniques. Various biological activities such as anticancerous, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory were also estimated. Pharmacokinetics study on TNE was carried out. Encapsulation efficiency of nanoemulsions was found to be 83%. Nanoemulsions were spherical in shape with globule size 308 nm, zeta potential -9.42 and polydispersity index was 0.31. Nanoemulsions were stable even after 50 days of storage at different temperatures. Anti-oxidant potential of TNE was conducted by various assays and IC50 were: Nitric oxide radical scavenging activity:225.1, DPPH radical scavenging activity:30.66, Iron chelating assay:38.73, and Iron reducing assay:39.36. Notable anticancer activity was observed with the percent cell viability of HeLa cells after treatment with 1, 2 and 5 µl of TNE was 82%, 41% and 24%, respectively. Antidiabetic study revealed that TNE inhibited -amylase in a dose-dependent manner, with 88% inhibition at its higher volume of 250 µl. Drug kinetic study revealed that nanoemulsions exhibited first-order model. Based on this, the possible role of M. alternifolia oil-based nanoemulsions in cosmetic, food, and pharma sectors has been discussed.

Acute oral toxicity assessment of galbanic acid in albino rat according to OECD 425 TG

In spite of the broad biological and also anticarcinogenic effects which have been reported for galbanic acid in various studies, its toxic effects are not still well characterized. The study was accomplished to evaluate the acute oral toxicity of galbanic acid pursuant to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) TG No. 425. Female rats were received asafoetida extract and galbanic acid in distilled water by oral gavage. According to the existing information, limit test was done for aqueous extract of asafoetida and main test was done for galbanic acid. The animals were monitored for 2 weeks. Then under general anesthesia, the blood samples were obtained from the heart for biochemical and hematological assessment and the vital organs of rats were isolated for pathological evaluation. The results showed that although the Median lethal dose (LD50) of asafoetida extract was above the 2000 mg/kg body weight, the galbanic acid estimated LD50 was 310.2 mg/kg. There was no considerable change in body weight of vehicle and extract treated animals but in galbanic acid treated animals, the body weights were not normally increased. A significant rise was observed in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), (aspartate aminotransferase) AST and (alanine aminotransferase) ALT levels as well as in white blood cells (WBC), platelet and lymphocytes counts in galbanic acid group compared to vehicle and extract groups. Based on the obtained results, we suggest that although the asafoetida aqueous extract could be categorized as group 5 (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg), but galbanic acid estimated LD50 is about 310.2 mg/kg and toxicity signs also appeared in lung, liver enzymes and complete blood count (CBC) of galbanic acid treated animals.

Fractionation, identification of chemical constituents, and biological properties of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) leaf extracts

The current study aimed to identify the chemical constituents and bioactivities of the crude ethanolic extract (CEE) and its fractions (ethyl acetate (EAF), hexane (HEF), and aqueous (AEF)) from leaves of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) grown in Vietnam. A total of 31 compounds which belong to alkanes, hydrocarbons, iodine, terpenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids were determined by a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, with bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate being the most prevailing compound. The highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents were obtained in the EAF, followed by HEF, CEE, and AQF. All samples showed promising in vitro antibacterial activity, enzyme inhibition, and anticancer activity. Among the samples tested, the EAF exhibited the highest enzyme inhibition activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase (IC50 values of 51.24 μg/mL and 99.29 μg/mL, respectively), cytotoxicity activity against HeLa cells (IC50 value of 79.49 μg/mL), and antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli with MIC values of 5 mg/mL and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. These findings suggest that the leaves of A. occidentale cultivated in Vietnam are a promising source of bioactive components and that EAF is a promising bioactive material warranting further pharmaceutical investigation.

Phytochemical analysis, antioxidant, and antihyperlipidemic activities of Teucriumtakoumitense

Objective

The main purpose of the present work was to determine the chemical composition, safety, and antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities of an aqueous extract of Teucrium takoumitense.

Methods

Phytochemical analysis (total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total hydroxycinnamic acid contents), antioxidant activity (ferric-reducing antioxidant power, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil, and total antioxidant capacity tests), acute toxicity, and antihyperlipidemic activity were evaluated according to established models. In addition, the phytochemical profile was determined by methylation followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

Results

The aqueous extract of T. takoumitense had a high content of total polyphenols (87.01 ± 0.31 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g extract) and hydroxycinnamic acid (2.28 ± 0.1 g/100 g Powdered Material) and a low content of total flavonoids (2.99 ± 0.16 mg GAE/g extract). In addition, the extract demonstrated remarkable antioxidant activity (DPPH IC50 = 76.67 ± 0.56 μg/mL, ABTS IC50 = 89.65 ± 0.27 μg/mL, FRAP EC50 = 296.32 ± 0.86 μg/mL, TAC value = 43 ± 0.27 mg EAA/g extract). The main compounds were identified as benzene, (hexyloxy)- (19.32%), 2,6a-methano-6aH-indeno[4,5-b]oxirene, octahedro-(1a.alpha., 2.beta., 3a.alpha., 6a.beta., 6b.alpha.)- (32.42%), d-fucose (5.47%), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5.47%) and guaiacol (3.19%). The LD50 was estimated to be between 500 and 2000 mg/kg. Furthermore, at 500 and 250 mg/kg, the aqueous extract of T. takoumitense exhibited good antihyperlipidemic activity in vivo.

Conclusion

T. takoumitense extract has significant pharmacological potential and a varied chemical composition.

In vitro anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and in silico studies of Ferruginan A isolated from Olea ferruginea Royle (Oleaceae)

Objective

Traditionally, Olea ferruginea Royle (Oleaceae) has been used as a painkiller and antidiabetic in various ailments. To provide a scientific background to this folklore the current study was designed to anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects of one of the isolated compound from this plant.

Methods

Ferruginan A was isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of Olea ferruginea bark. This isolated molecule was subjected to in-vitro anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects using HRBCs and glucose uptake tests. The compound was also tested for molecular docking and ADMET study.

Results

Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect, the tested compound demonstrated a 69.82 % inhibition at a concentration of 100 µg/mL, while the Ferruginan A (100 µl/mL) increased the uptake of glucose (3.79-71.86 %) in the yeast cell. Similarly, the zone of inhibition values of Ferruginan A (24.98 mm) against Escherichia coli were found to be comparable to standard (Imipenem: 31.09 mm). The mechanism of antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory effects was explored by using docking simulations performed on four molecular targets related to diabetes and inflammation. The results showed that the isolated compound may act as an antidiabetic agent by inhibiting the 5' Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). While it also showed inhibition of anti-inflammatory targets COX-1, COX-2, and Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). The ADMET prediction study revealed that isolated compound possesses favorable ADMET profile.

Conclusion

It was concluded that Ferruginan A might be a significant anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic molecule.

Effects of Saffron Extract (Affron®) with 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis and Stress Resilience in Chronic Mild Stress-Induced Depression in Wistar Rats

Stress-related symptoms are a global concern, impacting millions of individuals, yet effective and safe treatments remain scarce. Although multiple studies have highlighted the stress- alleviating properties of saffron extract, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study employs the unpredictable chronic mild stress (CMS) animal model to investigate the impact of a standardized saffron extract, Affron® (AFN), on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation and neuroplasticity in Wistar rats following repeated oral administration. The research evaluates AFN's effects on various stress-related parameters, including hypothalamic gene expression, stress hormone levels, and the sucrose preference test. In animals subjected to continuous unpredictable CMS, repetitive administration of AFN at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg effectively normalized HPA axis dysregulation and enhanced neuroplasticity. Increased concentrations of AFN demonstrated greater efficacy. Following AFN oral administration, adrenocorticotropic and corticosterone hormone levels exhibited significant or nearly significant reductions in comparison to subjects exposed to stress only. These changes align with the alleviation of stress and the normalization of the HPA axis. These findings elucidate AFN's role in stress mitigation, affirm its health benefits, validate its potential as a treatment for stress-related symptoms, confirm its physiological effectiveness, and emphasize its therapeutic promise.

Use of Traditional Remedies for Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Tertiary Center in Saudi Arabia

Patients with diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) are prone to major complications including amputations. Traditional remedies (TR) have been used to treat DFU around the world. This study aims to identify the prevalence of TR among patients with DFU in our local cohort and its effect on DFU. 1408 patients were included in the analysis. Data were collected retrospectively from patients' medical records. DFU characteristics include grading ulcers using the Wagner scale (WG) and infections (cellulitis and osteomyelitis). Ulcer management (UM) includes medical treatment, self-medical treatment, traditional treatment, and medical-traditional treatment. The mean age of the cohort was 60 years (SD = 12.4). The mean duration of diabetes was 18.6 years (SD = 9.3) and the mean duration of open wounds was 206.9 days (SD = 545.6). The majority were males (71%) and had type 2 diabetes (96%, SD = .204). Forty-three percent of patients were treated with TR (29% were self-prescribed and 14% prescribed by a physician) while 48% had medical treatment and 10% were self-treated using medical treatment. More than two-thirds of the cohort had cellulitis and/or osteomyelitis at the time of presentation. The use of traditional treatment was significantly associated with higher WG (WG 4 OR =  1.936, 95% CI: 1.338-2.800; WG 5 OR =  2.937, 95% CI:1.614-5.346; P < 0.05). Moreover, osteomyelitis was associated with medical-traditional treatment (OR = 1.608, 95% CI: 1.006-2.572; P < 0.05) and increased wound depth (WG 3 OR =  1.969, 95% CI: 1.193-3.250; WG 4 OR =  1.874, 95% CI: 1.115-3.15; P < 0.05). There is high use of TR for the treatment of DFU in our cohort. High Wagner-grade of foot ulcers and the presence of osteomyelitis were highly associated with DFU. This study showed for the first time the use of traditional potions by medical physicians. Both physicians and patients need to be made aware of the detrimental effects of using traditional methods on DFU.

Influenza virus cell entry and targeted antiviral development

Influenza virus infection is currently one of the most prevalent and transmissible diseases in the world causing local outbreaks every year. It has the potential to cause devastating global pandemics as well. The development of anti-influenza drugs possessing novel mechanisms of action is urgently needed to control the spread of influenza infections; thus, drugs that inhibit influenza virus entry into target cells are emerging as a hot research topic. In addition to discussing the biological significance of hemagglutinin in viral replication, this article provides recent updates on the natural products, small molecules, proteins, peptides, and neutralizing antibody-like proteins that have anti-influenza potency.

Potential applications of medicinal herbs and phytochemicals in oral and dental health: Status quo and future perspectives

OBJECTIVE

Herbal therapies are utilized to treat a broad diversity of diseases all over the globe. Although no clinical studies have been conducted to demonstrate the antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiplaque characteristics of these plants, this does not imply that they are ineffectual as periodontal treatments or anti-cariogenic drugs. However, there is a scarcity of research confirming their efficacy and worth.

SUBJECT

Herbs are utilized in dentistry as antimicrobial, antineoplastic, antiseptic, antioxidant, and analgesics agents as well as for the elimination of bad breath. In addition, the application of herbal agents in tissue engineering improved the regeneration of oral and dental tissues. This study reviews the application of medicinal herbs for the treatment of dental and oral diseases in different aspects.

METHODS

This article focuses on current developments in the use of medicinal herbs and phytochemicals in oral and dental health. An extensive literature review was conducted via an Internet database, mostly PubMed. The articles included full-text publications written in English without any restrictions on a date.

CONCLUSION

Plants have been suggested, as an alternate remedy for oral-dental problems, and this vocation needs long-term dependability. More research on herbal medicine potential as pharmaceutical sources and/or therapies is needed.

Modern drug discovery using ethnobotany: A large-scale cross-cultural analysis of traditional medicine reveals common therapeutic uses

For millennia, numerous cultures and civilizations have relied on traditional remedies derived from plants to treat a wide range of conditions and ailments. Here, we systematically analyzed ethnobotanical patterns across taxonomically related plants, demonstrating that congeneric medicinal plants are more likely to be used for treating similar indications. Next, we reconstructed the phytochemical space covered by medicinal plants to reveal that (i) taxonomically related medicinal plants cover a similar phytochemical space, and (ii) chemical similarity correlates with similar therapeutic usage. Lastly, we present several case scenarios illustrating how mining this information can be used for drug discovery applications, including: (i) investigating taxonomic hotspots around particular indications, (ii) exploring shared patterns of congeneric plants located in different geographic areas, but which have been used to treat the same indications, and (iii) showing the concordance between ethnobotanical patterns among non-taxonomically related plants and the presence of shared bioactive phytochemicals.

Phytochemical Screening, Phenolic Content, and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Foeniculum vulgare Seed Extract

Medicinal plants are promising sources of natural substances with biological functions and several drugs have been developed from traditional medicine. This study aimed to determine the chemical components of a hydromethanolic extract from Foeniculum vulgare seeds. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and flavonol contents were assessed, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed. To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of F. vulgare seed hydromethanolic extract, its effects on protein denaturation, protease activity, membrane stabilization, and heat-induced hemolysis in red blood cells were evaluated in vitro. F. vulgare seed extract showed significant inhibition of protein denaturation (35.68±0.4%), protease activity (58.09±0.1%), and heat-induced hemolysis in red blood cells (9.67±0.3%) at concentrations of 200, 250, and 200 μg/mL, respectively, compared to the reference drug indomethacin (P<0.001). This remarkable anti-inflammatory activity may be attributable to the abundance of flavonoids in the F. vulgare seed extract. GC-MS confirmed the presence of linalool and fatty acids (palmitic and oleic acids), which have potential anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, the hydromethanolic extract of F. vulgare seeds may be a valuable anti-inflammatory candidate in the years ahead.