1
|
Sánchez-Capa M, Corell González M, Mestanza-Ramón C. Edible Fruits from the Ecuadorian Amazon: Ethnobotany, Physicochemical Characteristics, and Bioactive Components. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3635. [PMID: 37896098 PMCID: PMC10610027 DOI: 10.3390/plants12203635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
In the Ecuadorian Amazon region, there are various types of edible fruits that have distinct qualities and benefits. Understanding the uses, properties, and functions of these fruits is important for researching products that are only available in local markets. This review aims to gather and summarize the existing scientific literature on the ethnobotany, physicochemical composition, and bioactive compounds of these native fruits to highlight the potential of the region's underutilized biodiversity. A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA methodology, utilizing databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, Pubmed, Redalyc, and SciELO up to August 2023. The research identified 55 edible fruits from the Ecuadorian Amazon and reported their ethnobotanical information. The most common uses were fresh fruit consumption, preparation of typical food, and medicine. Additionally, nine native edible fruits were described for their physicochemical characteristics and bioactive components: Aphandra natalia (Balslev and Henderson) Barfod; Eugenia stipitate McVaugh; Gustavia macarenensis Philipson; Mauritia flexuosa L.f; Myrciaria dubia (Kunth) McVaugh; Oenocarpus bataua Mart; Plukenetia volubilis L.; Pouteria caimito (Ruiz and Pav.) Radlk.; and Solanum quitoense Lam. The analyzed Amazonian fruits contained bioactive compounds such as total polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins. This information highlights their potential as functional foods and the need for further research on underutilized crops.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maritza Sánchez-Capa
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad de Sevilla, ETSIA Crta. de Utrera Km 1, 41013 Seville, Spain;
- Research Group YASUNI-SDC, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Sede Orellana, El Coca 220001, Ecuador
| | - Mireia Corell González
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad de Sevilla, ETSIA Crta. de Utrera Km 1, 41013 Seville, Spain;
- CSIC Associate Unit, “Uso Sostenible del Suelo & Agua en Agricultura”, Universidad de Sevilla IRNAS, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Carlos Mestanza-Ramón
- Research Group YASUNI-SDC, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Sede Orellana, El Coca 220001, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sosa L, Espinoza LC, Valarezo E, Bozal N, Calpena A, Fábrega MJ, Baldomà L, Rincón M, Mallandrich M. Therapeutic Applications of Essential Oils from Native and Cultivated Ecuadorian Plants: Cutaneous Candidiasis and Dermal Anti-Inflammatory Activity. Molecules 2023; 28:5903. [PMID: 37570874 PMCID: PMC10420932 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential oils are a complex mixture of aromatic substances whose pharmacological actions, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory activities, have been widely reported. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-Candida and dermal anti-inflammatory activity of essential oils from native and cultivated Ecuadorian plants. Essential oils from Bursera graveolens, Dacryodes peruviana, Mespilodaphne quixos, and Melaleuca armillaris were isolated by hydrodistillation and were characterized physically and chemically. Its tolerance was analyzed by in vitro and in vivo studies. The antifungal activity was studied against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Candida parapsilosis, whereas the anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by a mouse ear edema model. The main compounds were limonene, α-phellandrene, (E)-methyl cinnamate, and 1,8-cineole, respectively. All essential oils showed high tolerability for skin application, antifungal activity against the three Candida strains, and anti-inflammatory efficacy by decreasing edema and overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Dacryodes peruviana essential oil showed the highest antifungal activity. On the other hand, Dacryodes peruviana and Melaleuca armillaris showed the greatest anti-inflammatory potential, decreasing edema by 53.3% and 65.25%, respectively, and inhibiting the overexpression of TNF-α, IL-8, IL-17A, and IL-23. The results suggest that these essential oils could be used as alternative therapies in the treatment of both cutaneous candidiasis and dermal inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Sosa
- Microbiological Research Institute (IIM), National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH), Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras;
- Research Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology, National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH), Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras
| | - Lupe Carolina Espinoza
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador; (L.C.E.); (E.V.)
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (IN2UB), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Eduardo Valarezo
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador; (L.C.E.); (E.V.)
| | - Núria Bozal
- Departament de Biologia, Sanitat i Medi Ambient, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Ana Calpena
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (IN2UB), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
- Departament Farmàcia, Tecnologia Farmacèutica, i Físicoquímica, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María-José Fábrega
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Parc of Biomedical Research of Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Laura Baldomà
- Departament de Bioquímica i Fisiologia, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - María Rincón
- Departament de Ciència de Materials i Química Física, Facultat de Química, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Mireia Mallandrich
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (IN2UB), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
- Departament Farmàcia, Tecnologia Farmacèutica, i Físicoquímica, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Aguilar G, Calva J, Cartuche L, Salinas M, Armijos C. Chemical Constituents, Enantiomer Content, Antioxidant and Anticholinesterase Activities of Valeriana microphylla Kunth Essential Oil. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12112155. [PMID: 37299143 DOI: 10.3390/plants12112155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The study of the essential oil (EO) from aerial parts (stems and leaves) of Valeriana microphylla Kunth (Valerianaceae), collected from the Saraguro community in the southern region of Ecuador, was analyzed for the first time. A total of 62 compounds were identified in V. microphylla EO by GC-FID and GC-MS on nonpolar DB-5ms and polar HP-INNOWax columns. The most abundant components (>5%) detected on DB-5ms and polar HP-INNOWax columns were α-gurjunene (11.98, 12.74%), germacrene D (11.47, 14.93%), E-caryophyllene (7.05, 7.78%), and α-copaene (6.76, 6.91%), respectively. In addition, the enantioselective analysis, carried out on a chiral column, showed (+)-α-pinene and (R)-(+)-germacrene as enantiomerically pure compounds (enantiomeric excess = 100%). The antioxidant activity was high for the radicals ABTS (SC50 = 41.82 µg/mL) and DPPH (SC50 = 89.60 µg/mL), and finally, the EO was shown to be inactive to the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), as both values were >250 µg/mL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Aguilar
- Departamento de Química y Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - James Calva
- Departamento de Química y Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - Luis Cartuche
- Departamento de Química y Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - Melissa Salinas
- Departamento de Química y Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - Chabaco Armijos
- Departamento de Química y Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Swana L, Tsakem B, Tembu JV, Teponno RB, Folahan JT, Kalinski JC, Polyzois A, Kamatou G, Sandjo LP, Chamcheu JC, Siwe-Noundou X. The Genus Dacryodes Vahl.: Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050775. [PMID: 37242558 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050775] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Dacryodes Vahl. species, belonging to the Burseraceae family, are widely used in traditional medicine in tropical regions to treat a range of ailments including malaria, wounds, tonsillitis, and ringworms. This review discusses the distribution, ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, and bioactivities of Dacryodes species. The intent is to spur future research into isolating and identifying key active principles, secondary metabolites, and crude extracts, and evaluating their pharmacological and toxicological effects, as well as the mechanism of actions to understand their medicinal benefits. A systematic review of scientific electronic databases from 1963 to 2022 including Scifinder, Scopus, Pubmed, Springer Link, ResearchGate, Ethnobotany Research and Applications, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect was conducted with a focus on Dacryodes edulis (G.Don) H.J. Lam and Dacryodes rostrata (Blume) H.J. Lam. Pharmacological data revealed that D. edulis isolates contain secondary metabolites and other phytochemical groups belonging to the terpenoids class with anti-microbial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiinflammatory and hepatoprotective activities, highlighting its pharmacological potential in the therapy or management of diverse cancers, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Thus, phytochemicals and standardized extracts from D. edulis could offer safer and cost-effective chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic health benefits/regimen, or as alternative therapeutic remedy for several human diseases. Nevertheless, the therapeutic potential of most of the plants in the genus have not been exhaustively explored with regard to phytochemistry and pharmacology, but mostly complementary approaches lacking rigorous, scientific research-based knowledge. Therefore, the therapeutic potentials of the Dacryodes genus remain largely untapped, and comprehensive research is necessary to fully harness their medicinal properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leseho Swana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, P.O. Box 218, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
| | - Bienvenu Tsakem
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang P.O. Box 67, Cameroon
| | - Jacqueline V Tembu
- Department of Chemistry, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Rémy B Teponno
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang P.O. Box 67, Cameroon
| | - Joy T Folahan
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 71209, USA
| | - Jarmo-Charles Kalinski
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Alexandros Polyzois
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Guy Kamatou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Louis P Sandjo
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Jean Christopher Chamcheu
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 71209, USA
| | - Xavier Siwe-Noundou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, P.O. Box 218, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Valarezo E, Herrera-García M, Astudillo-Dávila P, Rosales-Demera I, Jaramillo-Fierro X, Cartuche L, Meneses MA, Morocho V. Study of the Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of the Essential Oil from Congona ( Peperomia inaequalifolia Ruiz and Pav.). PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1504. [PMID: 37050130 PMCID: PMC10097166 DOI: 10.3390/plants12071504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The species Peperomia inaequalifolia, commonly known as congona, is a succulent herbaceous plant belonging to the Piperaceae family, which is used for different purposes in traditional medicine. In this study, the chemical composition, enantiomeric distribution, and biological activity of essential oil isolated from the leaves of this species was determined. Hydrodistillation was used to isolate the essential oil. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry was used to determine the qualitative composition, a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector was used to determine quantitative composition, and gas chromatography on an enantioselective column was used to determine enantiomeric distribution. Antibacterial activity was determined using the broth microdilution method, for which we used three Gram-positive cocci bacteria, a Gram-positive bacilli bacterium, and three Gram-negative bacilli bacteria. 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical cations and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydryl (DPPH) radicals were used as reagents for determining the antioxidant activity of the essential oil. The spectrophotometric method was used to analyze the acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effect of the essential oil. The yield of leaves in essential oil was 0.16 ± 0.01% (v/w). Forty-three chemical compounds were identified in the essential oil, which represent 97.46% of the total composition. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons were the most representative group, with 24 compounds (21.63%). The principal constituents were found to be elemicin (27.44 ± 1.35%), bisabolol <α-> (17.76 ± 1.38), myristicin (15.45 ± 0.86), methyl eugenol (6.22 ± 0.24), viridiflorene (6.81 ± 0.10), and safrole (6.68 ± 0.23). Three pairs of enantiomers were identified in the essential oil of Peperomia inaequalifolia. Essential oil presented a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 4000 μg/mL against Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli. The antioxidant activity of the essential oil was strong according to the DPPH and ABTS methods, with a half radical scavenging capacity (SC50) of 293.76 ± 3.12 µg/mL and 226.86 ± 0.05 µg/mL, respectively. Additionally, the essential oil reported moderate anticholinesterase activity, with an IC50 of 43.93 ± 1.05 µg/mL.
Collapse
|
6
|
Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Essential Oil from Leaves and Fruits of Limoncillo ( Siparuna muricata (Ruiz & Pav.) A. DC.). Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010082. [PMID: 36671283 PMCID: PMC9855075 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Siparuna muricata is an aromatic native shrub or tree from Ecuador known as "limoncillo" or "limón de la sierra" due to its citrus odor. In this study, the chemical composition and biological activity of essential oil from the leaves and fruits of this species was determined. The essential oil was isolated by subjected to hydrodistillation. The chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The enantiomeric distribution was determined by gas chromatography using an enantioselective column. The antimicrobial activity against three Gram-positive bacteria, two Gram-negative bacteria and two fungi was determined by the broth microdilution method. The antioxidant activity was analyzed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydryl free radical and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical cation scavenging activity of essential oil. The acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effect of the essential oil was measured using a spectrophotometric method. The yield was 1.2 ± 0.1 mL/kg for leaves and 1.8 ± 0.2 mL/kg for fruits. A total of 51 compounds were identified in the leaves of the essential oil and 41 in the fruits. In both cases, the chemical compositions were dominated by the group of monoterpene hydrocarbons compounds. The main compound was α-pinene with 23.22 ± 1.03% in essential oil of the leaves and limonene with 24.92 ± 1.20% in the fruits. In both essential oils, five pairs of enantiomers with different enantiomeric excesses were identified. The essential oil of limoncillo leaves presented a strong activity against the fungus Aspergillus niger (ATTC 10231) and Gram-positive bacterium Enterococcus faecium (ATCC 27270) with a MIC of 250 μg/mL and 500 μg/mL, respectively. The essential oil from fruits and leaves of Siparuna muricata presented a moderate antioxidant activity with the ABTS method with a SC50 of 775.3 ± 1.3 µg/mL and 963.3 ± 1.6 µg/mL, respectively. Additionally, the leaves essential oil reported an IC50 value of 52.98 ± 1.04 µg/mL and the fruits essential oil an IC50 value of 98.84 ± 1.04 µg/mL, which can be considered a very strong anticholinesterase activity.
Collapse
|
7
|
Espinoza LC, Valarezo E, Fábrega MJ, Rodríguez-Lagunas MJ, Sosa L, Calpena AC, Mallandrich M. Characterization and In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy of Copal ( Dacryodes peruviana (Loes.) H.J. Lam) Essential Oil. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11223104. [PMID: 36432834 PMCID: PMC9696342 DOI: 10.3390/plants11223104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Essential oils are natural aromatic substances that contain complex mixtures of many volatile compounds frequently used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Dacryodes peruviana (Loes.) H.J. Lam is a native species from Ecuador whose anti-inflammatory activity has not been previously reported, thus the aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of D. peruviana essential oil. To that end, essential oil from D. peruviana fruits was isolated by hydrodistillation and characterized physically and chemically. The tolerance of the essential oil was analyzed by cytotoxicity studies using human keratinocytes. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by an arachidonic acid-induced edema model in mouse ear. The predominant compounds in D. peruviana essential oil were α-phellandrene, limonene, and α-pinene, with the three compounds reaching approximately 83% of the total composition. Tolerance studies showed high biocompatibility of this essential oil with human keratinocytes. In vivo studies demonstrated a moisturizing effect and an alleviation of several events occurred during the inflammatory process after topical treatment with D. peruviana essential oil such as decline in skin edema; reduction in leukocytic infiltrate; and decrease in inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL-8, IL-17A, and IL-23. Therefore, this essential oil could be an attractive treatment for skin inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lupe Carolina Espinoza
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Valarezo
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - María José Fábrega
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Parc of Biomedic Research of Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María José Rodríguez-Lagunas
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Nutrition and Food Safety Research Institute (INSA-UB), 08921 Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Spain
| | - Lilian Sosa
- Pharmaceutical Technology Research Group, Faculty of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH), Tegucigalpa 11101, Honduras
| | - Ana Cristina Calpena
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Mallandrich
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Valarezo E, Ludeña J, Echeverria-Coronel E, Cartuche L, Meneses MA, Calva J, Morocho V. Enantiomeric Composition, Antioxidant Capacity and Anticholinesterase Activity of Essential Oil from Leaves of Chirimoya (Annona cherimola Mill.). PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11030367. [PMID: 35161347 PMCID: PMC8840303 DOI: 10.3390/plants11030367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Annona cherimola Mill. is a native species of Ecuador cultivated worldwide for the flavor and properties of its fruit. In this study, hydrodistillation was used to isolate essential oil (EO) of fresh Annona cherimola leaves collected in Ecuadorian Sierra. The EO chemical composition was determined using a non-polar and a polar chromatographic column and enantiomeric distribution with an enantioselective column. The qualitative analysis was carried out by gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer and quantitative analysis using gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector. The antibacterial potency was assessed against seven Gram-negative bacteria and one Gram-positive bacterium. ABTS and DPPH assays were used to evaluate the radical scavenging properties of the EO. Spectrophotometric method was used to measure acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. GC-MS analysis allowed us to identify more than 99% of the EO chemical composition. Out of the fifty-three compounds identified, the main were germacrene D (28.77 ± 3.80%), sabinene (3, 9.05 ± 1.69%), β-pinene (4, 7.93 ± 0.685), (E)-caryophyllene (10.52 ± 1.64%) and bicyclogermacrene (11.12 ± 1.39%). Enantioselective analysis showed the existence of four pairs of enantiomers, the (−)-β-Pinene (1S, 5S) was found pure (100%). Chirimoya essential oil exhibited a strong antioxidant activity and a very strong anticholinesterase potential with an IC50 value of 41.51 ± 1.02 µg/mL. Additionally, EO presented a moderate activity against Campylobacter jejuni and Klebsiella pneumoniae with a MIC value of 500 μg/mL.
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Ecuador has shown a growth in its scientific production since 2011, representing 85% of the total historical production. These investigations are reflected in scientific publications, which address world interest topics and serve as a link for the university, business, and society. This work aims to analyze the scientific production generated by Ecuador in the period of 1920–2020 using bibliometric methods to evaluate its intellectual structure and performance. The methodology applied in this study includes: (i) terms definition and search criteria; (ii) database selection, initial search, and document compilation; (iii) data extraction and software selection; and finally, (iv) analysis of results. The results show that scientific production has been consolidated in 30,205 documents, developed in 27 subject areas, in 13 languages under the contribution of 84 countries. This intellectual structure is in harmony with the global context when presenting research topics related to “Biology and regional climate change”, “Higher education and its various approaches”, “Technology and Computer Science”, “Medicine”, “Energy, food and water”, and ”Development and applications on the Web”. Topics framed in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sustainability, climate change, and others. This study contributes to the academic community, considering current re-search issues and global concerns, the collaboration between universities and countries that allow establishing future collaboration links.
Collapse
|
10
|
Armijos C, Ramírez J, Salinas M, Vidari G, Suárez AI. Pharmacology and Phytochemistry of Ecuadorian Medicinal Plants: An Update and Perspectives. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14111145. [PMID: 34832927 PMCID: PMC8624270 DOI: 10.3390/ph14111145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of plants as therapeutic agents is part of the traditional medicine that is practiced by many indigenous communities in Ecuador. The aim of this study was to update a review published in 2016 by including the studies that were carried out in the period 2016–July 2021 on about 120 Ecuadorian medicinal plants. Relevant data on raw extracts and isolated secondary metabolites were retrieved from different databases, resulting in 104 references. They included phytochemical and pharmacological studies on several non-volatile compounds, as well as the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs). The tested biological activities are also reported. The potential of Ecuadorian plants as sources of products for practical applications in different fields, as well the perspectives of future investigations, are discussed in the last part of the review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chabaco Armijos
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador; (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.I.S.)
- Correspondence: (C.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Jorge Ramírez
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador; (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.I.S.)
| | - Melissa Salinas
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador; (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.I.S.)
| | - Giovanni Vidari
- Medical Analysis Department, Faculty of Science, Tishk International University, Erbil 44001, Iraq
- Correspondence: (C.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Alírica I. Suárez
- Departamento de Química, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja 1101608, Ecuador; (J.R.); (M.S.); (A.I.S.)
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 1040, Venezuela
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Valarezo E, Gaona-Granda G, Morocho V, Cartuche L, Calva J, Meneses MA. Chemical Constituents of the Essential Oil from Ecuadorian Endemic Species Croton ferrugineus and Its Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154608. [PMID: 34361759 PMCID: PMC8348771 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Croton ferrugineus Kunth is an endemic species of Ecuador used in traditional medicine both for wound healing and as an antiseptic. In this study, fresh Croton ferrugineus leaves were collected and subjected to hydrodistillation for extraction of the essential oil. The chemical composition of the essential oil was determined by gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector and gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer using a non-polar and a polar chromatographic column. The antibacterial activity was assayed against three Gram-positive bacteria, one Gram-negative bacterium and one dermatophyte fungus. The radical scavenging properties of the essential oil was evaluated by means of DPPH and ABTS assays. The chemical analysis allowed us to identify thirty-five compounds representing more than 99.95% of the total composition. Aliphatic sesquiterpene hydrocarbon trans-caryophyllene was the main constituent with 20.47 ± 1.25%. Other main compounds were myrcene (11.47 ± 1.56%), β-phellandrene (10.55 ± 0.02%), germacrene D (7.60 ± 0.60%), and α-humulene (5.49 ± 0.38%). The essential oil from Croton ferrugineus presented moderate activity against Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) with an MIC of 1000 μg/mL, a scavenging capacity SC50 of 901 ± 20 µg/mL with the ABTS method, and very strong antiglucosidase activity with an IC50 of 146 ± 20 µg/mL.
Collapse
|
12
|
Valarezo E, Morocho V, Cartuche L, Chamba-Granda F, Correa-Conza M, Jaramillo-Fierro X, Meneses MA. Variability of the Chemical Composition and Bioactivity between the Essential Oils Isolated from Male and Female Specimens of Hedyosmum racemosum (Ruiz & Pav.) G. Don. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154613. [PMID: 34361766 PMCID: PMC8347853 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedyosmum racemosum (Ruiz & Pav.) G. is a native species of Ecuador used in traditional medicine for treatment of rheumatism, bronchitis, cold, cough, asthma, bone pain, and stomach pain. In this study, fresh H. racemosum leaves of male and female specimens were collected and subjected to hydrodistillation for the extraction of the essential oil. The chemical composition of male and female essential oil was determined by gas chromatography–gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector and coupled to a mass spectrometer using a non-polar and a polar chromatographic column. The antibacterial activity was assayed against five Gram-positive and two Gram-negative bacteria, and two dermatophytes fungi. The scavenging radical properties of the essential oil were evaluated by DPPH and ABTS assays. The chemical analysis allowed us to identify forty-three compounds that represent more than 98% of the total composition. In the non-polar and polar column, α-phellandrene was the principal constituent in male (28.24 and 25.90%) and female (26.47 and 23.90%) essential oil. Other main compounds were methyl chavicol, germacrene D, methyl eugenol, and α-pinene. Female essential oil presented a strong activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 9997) with an minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 500 μg/mL and a scavenging capacity SC50 of 800 µg/mL.
Collapse
|
13
|
Valarezo E, Vullien A, Conde-Rojas D. Variability of the Chemical Composition of the Essential Oil from the Amazonian Ishpingo Species ( Ocotea quixos). Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26133961. [PMID: 34203565 PMCID: PMC8272037 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26133961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocotea quixos (Lam.) Kosterm. is an aromatic tree native to Ecuador, whose leaves are used to prepare aromatic beverages to which different health benefits are attributed. In this study, Ocotea quixos leaves were collected in the Amazon region in different environmental conditions and subjected to hydrodistillation to isolate the essential oil. The collection variables used were type of soil, amount of shade, and height; in addition, the presence of twig and leaf age and moisture were used as variables. Chemical composition was analyzed by means of gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. A wide variety of chemical compositions were detected in the samples. In total, forty-seven compounds were identified, which represented between 97.17% and 99.89% of the total composition. The constituents were mainly grouped into aliphatic sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (33.03–55.89%), other compounds (8.94–47.83%), and oxygenated monoterpenes (1.97–39.66%). The main constituents were found to be (E)-cinnamyl acetate (5.96–41.65%), (E)-methyl cinnamate (0.38–37.91%), and trans-caryophyllene (8.77–37.02%). The statistical analysis suggested the existence of two essential oil chemotypes and a direct correlation between environmental conditions and chemical composition of the essential oils.
Collapse
|
14
|
Study of Volatile Secondary Metabolites Present in Piper carpunya Leaves and in the Traditional Ecuadorian Beverage Guaviduca. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10020338. [PMID: 33578706 PMCID: PMC7916406 DOI: 10.3390/plants10020338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Piper carpunya Ruiz & Pav. is an aromatic shrub native to Ecuador, the leaves of which are used to prepare the traditional beverage Guaviduca. Different health benefits are attributed to the guaviduca beverage, which is consumed as a traditional and folk medicine. In this study, fresh P. carpunya leaves were collected in the winter and summer and subjected to hydrodistillation for the extraction of the essential oil. The guaviduca beverage was prepared by infusion in water and the volatile compounds were isolated by liquid–liquid extraction. Chemical composition and enantioselective analyses were performed by gas chromatography. The antibacterial activity was assayed against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The scavenging radical properties of the essential oil was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydryl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. The acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity was measured using the spectrophotometric method. The chemical analysis allowed us to identify more than 98% of the compounds in all samples. The main constituent of the essential oil was 1,8-cineole (25.20 ± 1.31%) in P. carpunya collected in winter and (17.45 ± 2.33%) in P. carpunya collected in summer, while in the beverage, there was 14 mg/L. Safrole was identified in the essential oil (PCW 21.91 ± 2.79%; PCS 13.18 ± 1.72%) as well as in the beverage (2.43 ± 0.12 mg/L). Enantioselective analysis was used to investigate the enantiomeric ratio and excess of four chiral components. The essential oil presented a strong activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae with a MIC of 500 μg/mL and a very strong anticholinesterase activity with an IC50 of 36.42 ± 1.15 µg/mL.
Collapse
|