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Lee YR, Lee HB, Oh MJ, Kim Y, Park HY. Thyme Extract Alleviates High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity and Gut Dysfunction. Nutrients 2023; 15:5007. [PMID: 38068865 PMCID: PMC10708554 DOI: 10.3390/nu15235007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolonged intake of a high-fat diet (HFD) disturbs the composition of gut microbiota, contributing to the development of metabolic diseases, notably obesity and increased intestinal permeability. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), an aromatic plant, is known for its several therapeutic properties. In this study, we explored the potential of thyme extract (TLE) to mitigate HFD-induced metabolic derangements and improve the gut environment. Eight-week-old C57BL/6 mice were administered 50 or 100 mg/kg TLE for eight weeks. Administration of 100 mg/kg TLE resulted in decreased weight gain and body fat percentage, alongside the regulation of serum biomarkers linked to obesity induced by a HFD. Moreover, TLE enhanced intestinal barrier function by increasing the expression of tight junction proteins and ameliorated colon shortening. TLE also altered the levels of various metabolites. Especially, when compared with a HFD, it was confirmed that 2-hydroxypalmitic acid and 3-indoleacrylic acid returned to normal levels after TLE treatment. Additionally, we investigated the correlation between fecal metabolites and metabolic parameters; deoxycholic acid displayed a positive correlation with most parameters, except for colon length. In contrast, hypoxanthine was negatively correlated with most parameters. These results suggest a promising role for thyme in ameliorating obesity and related gut conditions associated with a HFD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ra Lee
- Food Functionality Research Division, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea; (Y.R.L.); (H.-B.L.); (M.-J.O.); (Y.K.)
| | - Hye-Bin Lee
- Food Functionality Research Division, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea; (Y.R.L.); (H.-B.L.); (M.-J.O.); (Y.K.)
| | - Mi-Jin Oh
- Food Functionality Research Division, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea; (Y.R.L.); (H.-B.L.); (M.-J.O.); (Y.K.)
| | - Yoonsook Kim
- Food Functionality Research Division, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea; (Y.R.L.); (H.-B.L.); (M.-J.O.); (Y.K.)
| | - Ho-Young Park
- Food Functionality Research Division, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea; (Y.R.L.); (H.-B.L.); (M.-J.O.); (Y.K.)
- Department of Food Biotechnology, Korea National University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
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Czech A, Klimiuk K, Sembratowicz I. The effect of thyme herb in diets for fattening pigs on their growth performance and health. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291054. [PMID: 37796995 PMCID: PMC10553308 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To enrich pork with valuable n-3 PUFA, it is common practice to include flaxseeds in the swine diet. However, due to the high susceptibility of these acids to oxidation, this treatment requires an additional supply of antioxidants. Thyme herb can be used for this purpose, which in addition to high antioxidant activity is characterized by numerous health-promoting properties. The present study aimed at evaluating the impact of the inclusion of 1% and 3% of thyme herb in mixtures with 4% of extruded flaxseeds as a source of n-3 PUFA on the performance results and health status of fatteners. The experiment was carried out on 120 weaners with an initial body weight of about 30 kg and kept until the end of fattening. They were divided into three experimental groups of 40 animals each (5 pens with 8 pigs in each). The control group (C) consisted of pigs receiving a base mixture with 4% of extruded flaxseeds. In the experimental groups, an additional 1% (T1) or 3% (T3) of thyme herb was added to the mixture. By supplementing the diet with 3% of thyme, an increase in average daily weight gain (P = 0.001) and a better feed conversion ratio (P < 0.001) were obtained. This could be the result of an improvement in the small intestine histology (greater villus height-P < 0.001) and better digestibility of basic nutrients (especially crude protein-P < 0.05) found in experimental animals. In addition to these effects, thyme herb supplementation contributed to the stimulation of immune mechanisms (increase in the number of WBC-P ≤ 0.05; plasma IgA - P < 0.05 and IgG-P < 0.005, and the level of lysozyme-P < 0.05). The obtained results indicate the advisability of the use of thyme as a feed additive beneficially influencing the health and performance results in pigs. The obtained results indicate the advisability of the use of thyme as a feed additive beneficially influencing the health and performance results in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Czech
- Department of Biochemistry and Toxicology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kamila Klimiuk
- Department of Biochemistry and Toxicology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Iwona Sembratowicz
- Department of Biochemistry and Toxicology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Mammari N, Albert Q, Devocelle M, Kenda M, Kočevar Glavač N, Sollner Dolenc M, Mercolini L, Tóth J, Milan N, Czigle S, Varbanov M. Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Common Cold and Viral Respiratory Infections. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050662. [PMID: 37242445 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The common cold is generally considered a usually harmless infectious disease of the upper respiratory pathway, with mostly mild symptoms. However, it should not be overlooked, as a severe cold can lead to serious complications, resulting in hospitalization or death in vulnerable patients. The treatment of the common cold remains purely symptomatic. Analgesics as well as oral antihistamines or decongestants may be advised to relieve fever, and local treatments can clear the airways and relieve nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, or sneezing. Certain medicinal plant specialties can be used as therapy or as complementary self-treatment. Recent scientific advances discussed in more detail in this review have demonstrated the plant's efficiency in the treatment of the common cold. This review presents an overview of plants used worldwide in the treatment of cold diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Mammari
- CNRS, L2CM, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France
| | - Quentin Albert
- INRAE, Aix Marseille Université, UMR1163 Biodiversité et Biotechnologies Fongiques, 13288 Marseille, France
- INRAE, Aix Marseille Université, CIRM-CF, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Marc Devocelle
- SSPC (Synthesis & Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre), V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Department of Chemistry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 123 St. Stephen's Green, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maša Kenda
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Kočevar Glavač
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marija Sollner Dolenc
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Laura Mercolini
- Research Group of Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Jaroslav Tóth
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University Bratislava, Odbojárov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Nagy Milan
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University Bratislava, Odbojárov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Szilvia Czigle
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University Bratislava, Odbojárov 10, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mihayl Varbanov
- CNRS, L2CM, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France
- Laboratoire de Virologie, CHRU de Nancy Brabois, 54500 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
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Nadi A, Shiravi AA, Mohammadi Z, Aslani A, Zeinalian M. Thymus vulgaris, a natural pharmacy against COVID-19: A molecular review. J Herb Med 2023; 38:100635. [PMID: 36718131 PMCID: PMC9877322 DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2023.100635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Introduction A worldwide pandemic infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of a deadly disease called COVID-19. Interaction of the virus and the Angiotensin converting-enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor leads to an inflammatory-induced tissue damage. Thymus vulgaris L. (TvL) is a plant with a long history in traditional medicine that has antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antiviral properties. Thymol and Carvacrol are two important biological components in Thyme that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. This study is a molecular review on the potential effects of TvL and its active compounds on SARS-COV2 infection. Method This is a narrative review in which using PubMed, Scopus, ISI, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Google scholar, and Arxiv preprint databases, the molecular mechanisms of therapeutic and protective effects of TvL and its active compounds have been discussed regarding the molecular pathogenesis in COVID-19. Results Thyme could suppress TNF-alpha, IL-6, and other inflammatory cytokines. It also enhances the anti-inflammatory cytokines like TGF-beta and IL-10. Thyme extract acts also as an inhibitor of cytokines IL-1-beta and IL-8, at both mRNA and protein levels. Thymol may also control the progression of neuro-inflammation toward neurological disease by reducing some factors. Thyme and its active ingredients, especially Thymol and Carvacrol, have also positive effects on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and intestinal microbiota. Conclusions Accordingly, TvL and its bioactive components may prevent COVID-19 complications and has a potential protective role against the deleterious consequences of the disease.
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Key Words
- ACE, angiotensin-converting enzyme
- ACE2, angiotensin-converting enzyme II
- ACEIs, ACE inhibitors
- ALI, acute lung injury
- ARBs, angiotensin receptor blockers
- ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome
- AT1R, angiotensin II receptor type 1
- AngII, angiotensin II
- BALF, brochalveolar lavage fluid
- COVID-19
- CVD, cardio vascular disease
- IL, Interleukin
- Infection
- RAS, renin-angiotensin system
- SARS-COV2
- TGF-β, Transforming growth factor beta
- TMPRSS2, transmembrane serine protease 2
- TNF, tumor necrosis factor
- Th, T helper
- Thyme
- Thymus vulgaris L
- Treatment
- TvL, Thymus vulgaris L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Nadi
- School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amir Abbas Shiravi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Mohammadi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Amin Aslani
- Department of Genetics and Molecular biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Zeinalian
- Department of Genetics and Molecular biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran,Iranian Cancer Control and Prevention Center (MACSA), Isfahan, Iran,Corresponding author at: Department of Genetics and Molecular biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Matera R, Lucchi E, Valgimigli L. Plant Essential Oils as Healthy Functional Ingredients of Nutraceuticals and Diet Supplements: A Review. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28020901. [PMID: 36677959 PMCID: PMC9862182 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) are mixtures of volatile molecules endowed with health-promoting biological activities that go beyond their role as aromas and natural preservatives and can be exploited to develop functional foods and diet supplements. Their composition is briefly addressed along with regulatory aspects. The potential health benefit of human diet supplementation with EOs is outlined through a review of the recent literature on available clinical trials and preclinical research concerning EOs activity towards: (1) irritable bowel syndrome; (2) inflammatory bowel disease; (3) regulation of microbiota; (4) gastroprotection; (5) hepatoprotection; (6) protection of the urinary tract and diuresis; (7) management of metabolic disorders including hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia; (8) anti-inflammatory and pain control; (9) immunomodulation and protection from influenza; and (10) neuroprotection and modulation of mood and cognitive performance. The emerging potential in such activities of selected EOs is given focus, particularly green and black cumin, bergamot, orange, myrtle, peppermint, sage, eucalyptus, lavender, thyme, lemon balm, ginger, and garlic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Matera
- BeC s.r.l., Research & Development, Via C. Monteverdi 49, 47122 Forlì, Italy
| | - Elena Lucchi
- BeC s.r.l., Research & Development, Via C. Monteverdi 49, 47122 Forlì, Italy
| | - Luca Valgimigli
- Department of Chemistry “Ciamician”, University of Bologna, Via S. Giacomo 11, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-051-2095683
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Saleem A, Afzal M, Naveed M, Makhdoom SI, Mazhar M, Aziz T, Khan AA, Kamal Z, Shahzad M, Alharbi M, Alshammari A. HPLC, FTIR and GC-MS Analyses of Thymus vulgaris Phytochemicals Executing In Vitro and In Vivo Biological Activities and Effects on COX-1, COX-2 and Gastric Cancer Genes Computationally. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27238512. [PMID: 36500601 PMCID: PMC9736827 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Medicinal plants have played an essential role in the treatment of various diseases. Thymus vulgaris, a medicinal plant, has been extensively used for biological and pharmaceutical potential. The current study was performed to check the biopotential of active biological compounds. The GC-MS analysis identified 31 compounds in methanolic crude extract, among which thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene, and eugenol are the main phytoconstituents present in T. vulgaris. The HPLC analysis quantified that flavonoids and phenolic acids are present in a good concentration in the active fraction of ethyl acetate and n-butanol. FTIR confirmed the presence of functional groups such as phenols, a carboxylic group, hydroxy group, alcohols, and a benzene ring. Among both fractions, ethyl acetate showed high antioxidant activity in the DPPH (84.1 0.88) and ABTS (87.1 0.89) assays, respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity of the fractions was done in vitro and in vivo by using a carrageenan-induced paw edema assay, while the hexane-based extract showed high anti-inflammatory activity (57.1 0.54) in a dose-response manner. Furthermore, the lead compound responsible for inhibition in the denaturation of proteins is thymol, which exhibits the highest binding affinity with COX1 (-6.4 KJ/mol) and COX2 (-6.3 KJ/mol) inflammatory proteins. The hepatotoxicity analysis showed that plant-based phytoconstituents are safe to use and have no toxicity, with no necrosis, fibrosis, and vacuolar degeneration, even at a high concentration of 800 mg/kg body weight. Furthermore, the in silico analysis of HPLC phytochemical compounds against gastric cancer genes showed that chlorogenic acid exhibited anticancer activity and showed good drug-designing characteristics. Thrombolysis and hemolysis are the major concerns of individuals suffering from gastric cancer. However, the T. vulgaris fractions showed thrombolysis from 17.6 to 5.4%; similarly, hemolysis ranged from 9.73 to 7.1% at a concentration of 12 mg/mL. The phytoconstituents present in T. vulgaris have the potential for multiple pharmacological applications. This should be further investigated to isolate bioactive compounds that can be used for the treatment of different ailments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Saleem
- Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Naveed
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
- Correspondence: or (M.N.); (T.A.)
| | - Syeda Izma Makhdoom
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Modasrah Mazhar
- Department of Basic and Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Tariq Aziz
- School of Food & Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Correspondence: or (M.N.); (T.A.)
| | - Ayaz Ali Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Malakand, Chakdara 18800, Pakistan
| | - Zul Kamal
- Department of Pharmacy, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University Sheringal, Dir Upper 18000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shahzad
- School of Biological Sciences, Health and Life Sciences Building, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AX, UK
| | - Metab Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Evaluation of the efficacy of Thymus kotschyanus extract as an additive treatment in patients with ulcerative colitis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Inflammopharmacology 2022; 30:2145-2152. [PMID: 35723850 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-00991-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis (UC) is one of the chronic diseases which is increasing in prevalence and patients suffer from illness flare-ups. UC standard regimen treatment has various side effects besides the efficacy, so there is an interest in administering complementary medicine to reduce adverse effects and increase the efficacy, as well. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and anti-inflammatory effect of Thymus kotschyanus as an additive treatment in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of UC patients. METHODS Thirty UC out-patients with mesalazine regimen treatment that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were participated in a 12 week trial and were randomly chosen for the treatment and control group. Fifteen patients were administered a placebo as a control and 15 patients were received Thymus kotschyanus extract by a dose of 0.5 g in a day in the treatment group. Laboratory tests were performed at baseline and week 12. The primary outcome was a reduction in fecal calprotectin as the main intestine inflammatory marker. Likewise, reduction in SCCAI, SIDBQ, and SEO indices were considered as secondary aims. RESULTS Fecal calprotectin was decreased by 54.74% in the treatment group, as compared with the placebo group at week 12 (p = 0.02). A significant reduction in SCCAI was also shown between the two study groups (p = 0.01). Thymus kotschyanus extract was safe and no severe side effects were reported. CONCLUSION Administration of Thymus kotschyanus revealed improvement in UC symptoms by the intestinal anti-inflammation effect of the plant and could be suggested as a potential additive treatment in UC patients. The study protocol has been registered under the identification code: IRCT20200406046965N2.
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A Focused Insight into Thyme: Biological, Chemical, and Therapeutic Properties of an Indigenous Mediterranean Herb. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14102104. [PMID: 35631245 PMCID: PMC9147557 DOI: 10.3390/nu14102104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A perennial wild shrub from the Lamiaceae family and native to the Mediterranean region, thyme is considered an important wild edible plant studied for centuries for its unique importance in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industry. Thyme is loaded with phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins. It is pungent in taste, yet rich in moisture, proteins, crude fiber, minerals and vitamins. Its chemical composition may vary with geographical location but is mainly composed of flavonoids and antioxidants. Previous studies have illustrated the therapeutic effects of thyme and its essential oils, especially thymol and carvacrol, against various diseases. This is attributed to its multi-pharmacological properties that include, but are not limited to, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic actions. Moreover, thyme has long been known for its antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic activities, in addition to remarkable disruption of microbial biofilms. In the COVID-19 era, some thyme constituents were investigated for their potential in viral binding. As such, thyme presents a wide range of functional possibilities in food, drugs, and other fields and prominent interest as a nutraceutical. The aims of the current review are to present botanical and nutritive values of this herb, elaborate its major constituents, and review available literature on its dietetic and biological activities.
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Sulaiman N, Pieroni A, Sõukand R, Polesny Z. Food Behavior in Emergency Time: Wild Plant Use for Human Nutrition during the Conflict in Syria. Foods 2022; 11:foods11020177. [PMID: 35053908 PMCID: PMC8775266 DOI: 10.3390/foods11020177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Wild food plants (WFPs) have been an important source of human nutrition since ancient times, and it particularly revives when conventional food is not available due to emergency situations, such as natural disasters and conflicts. The war in Syria has entered 10 years since it started in 2011, and it has caused the largest war-related crises since World War II. Nearly 60% of the Syrian population (12.4 million people) are food-insecure. WFPs are already culturally important in the region, and may be supplementing local diets during this conflict. Our study aimed to uncover the conflict’s effect on the use of WFPs and to know what species are consumed by local people during the current crisis. The fieldwork was carried out between March 2020 and March 2021 in the Tartus governorate located in the coastal region of Syria. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 participants (26 women and 24 men) distributed in 26 villages along the study area. We recorded the vernacular names, uses, plant parts used, modes of preparation and consumption, change in WFP use before and during the conflict, and informants’ perceptions towards WFPs. We documented 75 wild food plant species used for food and drink. Almost two-thirds (64%) of informants reported an increase in their reliance on wild plants as a food source during the conflict. The species of Origanum syriacum, Rhus coriaria, Eryngium creticum, and Cichorium intybus were among the most quoted species by informants. Sleeq (steamed leafy vegetables), Zaatar (breakfast/dinner food), and Louf (soup) were the most popular wild plant-based dishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naji Sulaiman
- Department of Crop Sciences and Agroforestry, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 16500 Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic;
| | - Andrea Pieroni
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 9, 12042 Pollenzo, Italy;
- Medical Analysis Department, Faculty of Science, Tishk International University, Erbil 44001, Iraq
| | - Renata Sõukand
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30174 Venezia, Italy;
| | - Zbynek Polesny
- Department of Crop Sciences and Agroforestry, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 16500 Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic;
- Correspondence:
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Vergun O, Svidenko L, Grygorieva O, Horčinová Sedláčková V, Fatrcová Šramková K, Ivanišová E, Brindza J. Polyphenol component and antioxidant activity of Thymus spp. POTRAVINARSTVO 2022. [DOI: 10.5219/1715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This scientific work was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of aromatic plants of Thymus spp. in the East of Ukraine. These plants are known as medicinal and food around the world. All antioxidant parameters were investigated spectrophotometrically: total content of polyphenols (TPC), the total content of phenolic acids (TPAC), the total content of flavonoids (TFC), molybdenum reducing power of extracts (MRP), and antioxidant activity by DPPH method (DPPH). Investigation of ethanolic extracts demonstrated that TPC varied from 57.89 to 123.67 mg/g gallic acid equivalent (GAE) DW for Th. pulegioides, from 61.43 to 168.18 mg GAE/g for Th. serpyllum, and from 47.36 to 115.67 mg GAE/g for Th. vulgaris. TPAC ranged from 27.36 to 50.22 mg/g caffeic acid equivalent (CAE) DW for Th. pulegioides, from 28.58 to 59.62 mg CAE/g for Th. serpyllum, and from 22.95 to 53.82 mg CAE/g for Th. vulgaris. TFC was determined in a range from 29.88 to 61.23 mg/g quercetin equivalent (QE) DW for Th. pulegioides, from 36.0 to 82.43 mg QE/g for Th. serpyllum, and from 24.59 to 55.41 mg QE/g for Th. vulgaris. MRP was detected in the range of 94.65 – 204.76 mg/g Trolox equivalent (TE) DW for Th. pulegioides, 96.06 – 219.0 mg TE/g for Th. serpyllum, and 87.56 – 215.43 mg TE/g for Th. vulgaris. The antioxidant activity of extracts by the DPPH method was 6.34 – 9.23 mg TE/g for Th. pulegioides, 8.11 – 9.21 mg TE/g for Th. serpyllum, and 4.97 – 9.53 mg TE/g for Th. vulgaris. It was established that polyphenol accumulation depended on the growth stage and species. For all species was found a strong correlation between TPC and TFC (r=0.938, 0.908, and 0.854). Investigated Thymus spp. are a valuable source of antioxidants that can be used in pharmacological studies and the food industry.
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Silva AS, Tewari D, Sureda A, Suntar I, Belwal T, Battino M, Nabavi SM, Nabavi SF. The evidence of health benefits and food applications of Thymus vulgaris L. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Nafis A, Iriti M, Ouchari L, El Otmani F, Marraiki N, Elgorban AM, Syed A, Mezrioui N, Hassani L, Custódio L. New Insight into the Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Synergistic Effects of the Moroccan Endemic Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine Essential Oil in Combination with Conventional Antibiotics. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26195850. [PMID: 34641393 PMCID: PMC8510371 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26195850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reported the volatile profile, the antimicrobial activity and the synergistic potential of essential oil (EO) from the Moroccan endemic Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine, in combination with the antibiotics ciprofloxacin and fluconazole for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The EO chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and the antimicrobial activity assessed by the disc diffusion method against three Gram positive (Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus) and three Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and one clinical isolate, Klebsiella pneumonia). The antifungal activity was evaluated in four pathogenic yeasts (Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei and C. parapsilosis). The minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and the synergistic effect with ciprofloxacin and fluconazole were determined by the two-fold dilution technique and checkerboard test, respectively. Twenty-one constituents were identified by GC-MS in the EO, including carvacrol (21.62%) and borneol (21.13%) as the major components. The EO exhibited a significant antimicrobial activity with inhibition zones ranging from 0.7 mm to 22 mm for P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis, respectively, and MIC values varying from 0.56 mg/mL to 4.47 mg/mL. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) values ranged from 0.25 to 0.50 for bacteria and from 0.25 to 0.28 for yeasts. The maximum synergistic effect was observed for K. pneumonia with a 256-fold gain of antibiotic MIC. Our results have suggested that EO from T. atlanticus may be used alone or in association with antibiotics as a new potential alternative to prevent and control the emergence of resistant microbial strains both in the medical field and in the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nafis
- Microbiology, Health and Environment Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaïb Doukkali University, El Jadida 24000, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco; (N.M.); (L.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +212-610170760
| | - Marcello Iriti
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Milan State University, via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Lahcen Ouchari
- Moroccan Coordinated Collection of Microorganisms (CCMM), National Center for Scientific and Technical Research (CNRST), P.O. Box 8027, Rabat 10102, Morocco;
| | - Fatima El Otmani
- Microbiology, Health and Environment Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaïb Doukkali University, El Jadida 24000, Morocco;
| | - Najat Marraiki
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (N.M.); (A.M.E.); (A.S.)
| | - Abdallah M. Elgorban
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (N.M.); (A.M.E.); (A.S.)
| | - Asad Syed
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (N.M.); (A.M.E.); (A.S.)
| | - Noureddine Mezrioui
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco; (N.M.); (L.H.)
| | - Lahcen Hassani
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco; (N.M.); (L.H.)
| | - Luísa Custódio
- Center of Marine Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Algarve, Ed. 7, Campus of Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal;
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Investigation of Immunomodulatory and Gut Microbiota-Altering Properties of Multicomponent Nutraceutical Prepared from Lactic Acid Bacteria, Bovine Colostrum, Apple Production By-Products and Essential Oils. Foods 2021; 10:foods10061313. [PMID: 34200426 PMCID: PMC8229151 DOI: 10.3390/foods10061313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary components, such as lactic acid bacteria (LAB), bovine colostrum, apple production by-products, and essential oils, can favorably alter the host immune system and gut microbiota, however, their cumulative effect as multicomponent nutraceutical supplement has not been investigated. Therefore, the present study is the first one to evaluate a combination of LAB, bovine colostrum, dehydrated apple pomace, and essential oils for their immunomodulatory and prebiotic properties in the swine model. This study shows that supplementary feeding of pigs using multicomponent nutraceutical resulted in a statistically significant decrease in proportions of T cytotoxic and double-positive (CD4+CD8+low) cells within the CD3+ cell population at 28 DPI, compared to the beginning of the experiment (0DPI). Conversely, a statistically significant increase in proportions of B cells (accompanied by an increase in IgG concentration) and macrophage/monocyte cells within viable cell population at 28 DPI, compared to the beginning of the experiments, was observed. Furthermore, changes in the bacterial composition of gut microbiota in pigs fed with multicomponent nutraceutical changed significantly, with a 1.78 times higher number of probiotic strains (Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, Faecilbacterium) at the end of the experiment, compared to control group animals. This study shows a positive effect of the nutraceutical formula used on the changes of gut microbiota by facilitating an increase in probiotic bacteria strains and possible anti-inflammatory properties.
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Diniz do Nascimento L, Barbosa de Moraes AA, Santana da Costa K, Pereira Galúcio JM, Taube PS, Leal Costa CM, Neves Cruz J, de Aguiar Andrade EH, Guerreiro de Faria LJ. Bioactive Natural Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils from Spice Plants: New Findings and Potential Applications. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10070988. [PMID: 32630297 PMCID: PMC7407208 DOI: 10.3390/biom10070988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spice plants have a great influence on world history. For centuries, different civilizations have used them to condiment the foods of kings and nobles and applied them as embalming preservatives, perfumes, cosmetics, and medicines in different regions of the world. In general, these plants have formed the basis of traditional medicine and some of their derived substances have been utilized to treat different human diseases. Essential oils (EOs) obtained from these plants have been also used as therapeutic agents and have shown supportive uses in remedial practices. The discovery and development of bioactive compounds from these natural products, based on their traditional uses, play an important role in developing the scientific evidence of their potential pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications. In the present review, using recent studies, we exhibit a general overview of the main aspects related to the importance of spice plants widely used in traditional medicine: Cinnamomum zeylanicum (true cinnamon), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Origanum vulgare (oregano), Piper nigrum (black pepper), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), and Thymus vulgaris (thyme); and we discuss new findings of the bioactive compounds obtained from their EOs, their potential applications, as well as their molecular mechanisms of action, focusing on their antioxidant activity. We also exhibit the main in vitro methods applied to determine the antioxidant activities of these natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidiane Diniz do Nascimento
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Engenharia de Recursos Naturais da Amazônia, Instituto de Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075110, Brazil;
- Laboratório Adolpho Ducke, Coordenação de Botânica, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém 66077-830, Brazil; (A.A.B.d.M.); (J.N.C.); (E.H.d.A.A.)
- Correspondence: or (L.D.d.N.); (K.S.d.C.); Tel.: +55-91-3217-6086 (L.D.d.N.); +55-93-2101-6771 (K.S.d.C.)
| | - Angelo Antônio Barbosa de Moraes
- Laboratório Adolpho Ducke, Coordenação de Botânica, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém 66077-830, Brazil; (A.A.B.d.M.); (J.N.C.); (E.H.d.A.A.)
| | - Kauê Santana da Costa
- Instituto de Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Vera Paz Street, w/n Salé, Santarém 68040-255, Brazil; (J.M.P.G.); (P.S.T.)
- Correspondence: or (L.D.d.N.); (K.S.d.C.); Tel.: +55-91-3217-6086 (L.D.d.N.); +55-93-2101-6771 (K.S.d.C.)
| | - João Marcos Pereira Galúcio
- Instituto de Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Vera Paz Street, w/n Salé, Santarém 68040-255, Brazil; (J.M.P.G.); (P.S.T.)
| | - Paulo Sérgio Taube
- Instituto de Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Vera Paz Street, w/n Salé, Santarém 68040-255, Brazil; (J.M.P.G.); (P.S.T.)
| | - Cristiane Maria Leal Costa
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Engenharia Química, Instituto de Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075110, Brazil;
| | - Jorddy Neves Cruz
- Laboratório Adolpho Ducke, Coordenação de Botânica, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém 66077-830, Brazil; (A.A.B.d.M.); (J.N.C.); (E.H.d.A.A.)
| | - Eloisa Helena de Aguiar Andrade
- Laboratório Adolpho Ducke, Coordenação de Botânica, Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi, Belém 66077-830, Brazil; (A.A.B.d.M.); (J.N.C.); (E.H.d.A.A.)
| | - Lênio José Guerreiro de Faria
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Engenharia de Recursos Naturais da Amazônia, Instituto de Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075110, Brazil;
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Engenharia Química, Instituto de Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66075110, Brazil;
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