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The chemical analysis of three Algerian plants was conducted by using Headspace Solid Phase Micro Extraction coupled with Gas Chromatogr aphy Mass Spectrometry (HS SPME GC/ MS). This analysis was performed directly on the dried aerial parts of the plants. The results revealed that the major compounds are 1,8 cineol (27.3%) in Ajuga iva, cis-muurola-3,5 diene (14.6%) in Salvia verbenaca and 2,3-dehydro 1,4-cineol (36%) in Thymus algeriensis . The oxygenated monoterpenes are the major class representing 62.1% and 78.4% in Ajuga iva and Thymus a lgeriensis , respectively, whereas the sesquiterpene hydrocarbons are the major class in Salvia verbena ca representing 50.1%. Identification of naturally rare monoterpene ether, 2,3-dehydro 1,4-cineol was the first time in the Ajuga iva Salvia verbenaca and Thymus algeriensis.

To establish a resource base of medicinal plants of Donbass, and to develop methods for their balanced use, it is necessary to conduct an inventory and analysis of the spread of wild species, that recently was not carried out in Luhansk and Donetsk region. These circumstances have served as an incentive to carry out special investigations. Test species belong to 403 genus and 108 families. List of vascular plants of Luhansk region has more than 1,200 species. We have established that in the study area, there are 718 species of medicinal plants, representing 60 % of the total flora of the region, covering so much of the taxonomic diversity of Donbass flora. The family of the Asteraceae (105 species, 50 genuses) is different in terms of the greatest number of species of medicinal plants and genus family. The families of Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, Apiaceae, Lamiaceae and Poaceae contain more than 40 species, the families of Apiaceae и Rosaceae — over 30 species, Caryophylaceae и Polygonaceae — more than 20 species, a total of 301 species. The remaining 99 families presented a small number of basic taxonomic units. The species Viscum album, Ajuga chia, Salvia nemorosa were found during expeditions. These species have not been previously described for the region.

Objectives In this study, it was aimed to characterize the phenolic contents of Ajuga reptans L., Ajuga salicifolia (L.) Schreber and Ajuga genevensis L. and to investigate their in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Materials and Methods Air dried aerial parts of A. reptans L., A. salicifolia (L.) Schreber, and A. genevensis L. collected from Turkey were extracted with methanol (70%), and the phenolic composition of the crude extracts was analyzed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. To determine the total phenolic content the Folin-Ciocalteu method was used. The radical scavenging activities of the extracts were evaluated by the photometric 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assays (TEAC). Furthermore, Ajuga sp. extracts were tested against Escherichia coli NRRL B3008, Staphylococcus areus ATCC 6538, Salmonella thyphimurium ATCC 13311, Bacillus cereus NRRL B-3711, Candida albicans ATCC 90028, Candida tropicalis ATCC 1369, and Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 using the in vitro broth dilution assay. Results The LC-MS/MS analyses identified 19 compounds. The amount of total phenolics ranged from 30.0 to 42.2 mg gallic acid equivalent/g in all extracts. According to the results of TEAC assay, the tested extracts were found to have relatively high activity at 1.2-1.5 mM concentrations. Ajuga sp. extracts inhibited all tested microorganisms; however, C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis exhibited relatively more susceptibility (minimum inhibitory concentration: 156.25 µg/mL) compared to the bacteria tested. Conclusion The antioxidant activities of all extracts were determined for the first time by the TEAK method, and the in vitro antimicrobial activity of A. salicifolia was investigated for the first time against selected strains.

Pollen micro-morphological features have proven to be helpful for the plant taxonomists in the identification and classification of plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the palynological features of family Asteraceae and Lamiaceae from flora of District Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan using both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscope (LM) for their taxonomic importance. Pollen of seven Asteraceous species belonging to four genera and four Lamiaceae species categorized into four genera were collected from different localities of research area. The present research work provides detailed information of diverse morpho-palynological characters both qualitatively and quantitatively including pollen shape, type, diameter, P/E ratio, exine sculpturing and thickness. Type of pollen in Asteraceae and Lamiaceae was ranged from tricolporate, tricolpate, trizonocolpate and hexazonocolpate. The maximum polar diameter (40.05 μm) and equatorial diameter (37.66 μm) was observed in the Ajuga bracteoosa while minimum polar and equatorial diameter was noted in Isodon rugosus (11.10 μm) and Erigeron canadensis (13.20 μm) respectively. Sculpturing of exine include; echinate, reticulate scabrate, aerolate, reticulate-verrucate, reticulate-scabrate, perforate and reticulate to perforate. Exine thickness was examined maximum 1.50 μm in Helianthus tuberosus, whereas minimum in Conyza Canadensis (0.16 μm). The pollen fertility was found highest in C Canadensis (83.33%) and lowest in Ajuga bracteosa (58.06%). The observed pollen morphology has many valuable qualitative and quantitative attributes for the better understanding of their taxonomy and play significant role in correct identification.

Ajuga turkestanica (Rgl.) Briq. (Lamiaceae) callus cultures were obtained from a wild plant, and the morphogenesis processes in these cultures were studied. It was possible to obtain gemmogenesis or rhizogenesis in the first six to eight growth cycles, depending on the hormonal composition of the medium; the capacity for morphogenesis was lost after 10–15 growth cycles. Suspension cell cultures were initiated from some calluses with strong growth. As a result, about 100 calluses and suspension plant cell lines of A. turkestanica were obtained; a number of them were characterized in terms of growth rate and were analyzed via HPLC-MS for the presence of phytoecdysteroids. 20-Hydroxyecdysone and turkesterone were found in most of the studied lines; the content of the first compound in the most productive lines was 30–50 times higher than in the second (2.0–2.5 mg/g versus 0.04– 0.05 mg/g dry weight, respectively). An increase in the phytoecdysteroid content in plant cells cultured in vitro was observed by the end of the growing cycle. However, phytoecdysteroids were not found in many of the obtained plant cell lines. Further research is needed to clarify the causes of the presence or absence of phytoecdysteroids in A. turkestanica plant cell cultures.

The rural and cultural life style of indigenous people of Kuz Abakhel is urging them in touch to folk medicines for treatment of various ailments. Seventy-four plant species were documented that were used by the local people for the treatment of different ailments. These plants were commonly used as an ethno medicine against 49 major different disorders, out of which most commonly happened were; Anemia Anesthetics, unconsciousness, Anoxia etc. The principal medicinal plants with maximum used values were Aesculus indica (Wall.ex Comb) Hook.f (0.998), Ajuga bracteosa (0.996). RFC values; the maximum quoted medicinal plant species by the indigenous drivers are A. indica (RFCs = 0.999), A. bracteosa (0.996), Ajuga niponsis (0.994), Allium cepa (0.993) whereas maximum respondents %age was observed for the same plant species examined through consensus index, the (CI% = 90.84%) was for Aesculus indica and A. bracteosa. The medicinal plant species A. indica mentioned 100% for hepatitis. The diseases like. Anemia, Anesthetics and unconsciousness, Anoxia, Anti-dandruff, Antispasmodic, Arthritis, Body coldness and sexual tonic, Eye disease, Gonorrhea, Infertility, Mouth ulcer, Myiasis, Nerve tonic, Pain killer, Refrigerant, Rheumatism, Septicemia, Throat pain, Toothache, had highest FIC value due to depiction by only a single plant taxa/specie (Nt = 1). The current study exposed the significance to compose and offer a list of all the possible plants that are used in folk and ethnic medicinal practices against various ailments in the unexplored area of Kuz Abakhel and to demonstrate the important medicinal plants for future phytochemical and pharmacological research.

Ajuga xylorrhiza Kit Tan is a rare endemic perennial species growing in the stony habitats in Southeastern Anatolia region, Turkey. An efficient and reproducible protocol has been developed for micropropagation of endangered Ajuga xylorrhiza. Shoots were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium, supplemented with various concentrations of 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP), thidiazuron (TDZ), and kinetin (Kin). The optimal shoot formation was with the medium containing 0.125 mg L−1 BAP (7.91 shoots per explant), and 0.25 mg L−1 Kin (4.9 shoots per explant) was recorded. The best result in terms of shoot length (3.43 to 3.63 cm) was obtained from the Kin treatments. Kin parameters were more effective on shoot length and multiple shoot production than BAP and TDZ. For rooting, regenerated shoots were transferred to 1/4 strength MS medium containing two different concentrations of indole acetic acid (IAA) and α-naphthalenetic acid (NAA) at 0 (control), 0.5, or 1.0 mg L−1.The best results in terms of the number of roots per shoot were obtained from the medium supplemented with 0.5 mg L−1 IAA (3.10 roots per explant). Rooted plantlets were transferred to soil for acclimization with 100% success rate.

Recent field exploration and collections has led to the findings of several new species in Pakistan. Here we reported two new species Ajuga reptance L and Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Prusk for the first time in Pakistan flora as these species were neither listed in any other literature nor identified before in Pakistan. These species were found as a result of taxonomic studies performed in the year 2019 in District Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. Microscopic techniques were used for the confirmation of foliar epidermal and pollen micromorphological features. Detailed study (morphological, palynological, and foliar epidermal) was provided for the correct identification and delimitation of the species using both light and scanning electron microscopy. Morphological results were compared with the flora of Taiwan and China.

Background:The Himalayan region has been reported as rich accumulation of natural wealth, particularly of aromatic and medicinal plants. Indian Ajuga species (Ajuga brachystemon, Ajuga integrifolia, Ajuga macrosperma and Ajuga parviflora) belonging to Lamiaceae family have been reported from different parts of Uttarakhand. Phytochemical studies revealed presence of various bioactive compounds including neo-clerodane diterpenoids, steroids, phytoecdysteroids, sphingolipids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, iridoids, triglycerides, withanolides, phenylethanoid glycosides and quinols. Modern pharmacological activities of Ajuga species including anti-inflammatory, anti plasmodial activity, anti-platelet activity, antioxidant activity, analgesic assay, anti diabetic activity, antifungal activity, insecticidal activity and cytotoxity have been published by various researchers.Objective:The present study is aimed at exploring chemical composition, pharmacological and biological activities of Ajuga species as worked out by researchers and scientific community. Due to the excessive use of Ajuga species it needs to be conserved and requires important measures for its conservation.Methods:The analysis of essential oils and plant extract has been reported through solvent extraction, steam distillation method, GC-MS analysis and HPLC.Results:Literature survey revealed reports of Ajuga L. to be used against various ailments such as stomach-ache, dermatitis, malaria, snake-bite, ear-ache, arthritis, bleeding, wounds, asthma, pneumonia, respiratory problems, fever, dysentery, and joint pain.Conclusion:The detailed description would be helpful in future studies. Recent biotechnological approaches have been reported useful to conserve A. bracteosa due to over exploitation for research purpose whereas A. brachystemon and A. macrosperma have been reported rarely in the wild.

Eight new neo-clerodane diterpenoids (1-8) were acquired from the aerial parts of Ajuga pantantha. Spectroscopic data analysis permitted the definition of their structures, and experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism data were used to define their absolute configurations. Compounds 2 and 4-8 were found to have NO inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 20.2, 45.5, 34.0, 27.0, 45.0, and 25.8 μM, respectively. The more potent compounds 2, 6, and 8 were analyzed to establish their anti-inflammatory mechanism, including regulation of the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) proteins as well as their binding interactions with the two proteins.

Background: Multi-drug resistance in bacterial pathogens is a major concern of today. Green synthesis technology is being used to cure infectious diseases. Objectives: The aim of the current research was to analyze the antibacterial, antioxidant, and phytochemical screening of green synthesized silver nanoparticles using Ajuga bracteosa. Methods: Extract of A. bracteosa was prepared by maceration technique. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using A. bracteosa extract and were confirmed by UV-Vis spectrophotometer, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The antibacterial, anti-biofilm, cell proliferation inhibition, TLC-Bioautography, TLC-Spot screening, antioxidant, and phytochemical screening were also investigated. Results: UV-Vis spectrum and Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the synthesis of green nanoparticles at 400 nm with tube-like structures. FTIR spectrum showed that functional groups of nanoparticles have a role in capping and stability of AgNP. Agar well diffusion assay represented the maximum antibacterial effect of ABAgNPs against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 0.10 g/mL concentration compared to ABaqu. Two types of interactions among nanoparticles, aqueous extract, and antibiotics (Synergistic and additive) were recorded against tested pathogens. Crystal violet, MTT, TLC-bio-autography, and spot screening supported the findings of the antibacterial assay. Highest antioxidant potential effect in ABaqu was 14.62% (DPPH) and 13.64% (ABTS) while 4.85% (DPPH) and 4.86% (ABTS) was recorded in ABAgNPs. Presence of phytochemical constituents showed pharmacological importance. Conclusion: It was concluded that green synthesis is an innovative technology in which natural products are conjugated with metallic particles and are used against infectious pathogens. The current research showed the significant use of green nanoparticles against etiological agents.

Aerial parts of Ajuga iva subsp. Pseudoiva were screened for phytochemical composition using plant powder, and aqueous and organic extracts and their antioxidant activities were evaluated by hydrog...

Since the seeds of endemic Ajuga vestita are difficult to germinate naturally they were subjected to in vitro culture. Highest rate of germination was obtained in 1/4 MS medium supplemented with 30 g sucrose in light. Microshoots subcultured in 1/1 MS supplemented with 0.125 mg/l Kn rooted well and transferred to soil with 80% success.

The management of blood glucose level is the hallmark in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and this may be achieved through the inhibition of the digestive enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. The aim of this work is the investigation of phenolic compounds content, antioxidant activity and for the first time, the in vitro anti-hyperglycemic potential of aerial part of Ajuga iva Schreber extracts through the inhibition of digestive enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase), responsible of the digestion of poly and oligosaccharides. Test for total phenolic content showed that the methanol extract has the highest polyphenolic and flavonoid concentrations with (65.3 mg GAEs/g extract and 132.6 mg REs/g extract). The methanol extract has also exhibited the higher antioxidant activity compared to the aqueous extract in different tests with (IC50 = 0.187 ± 0.016 mg/mL; 62.19 ± 0.45 mg TE/g extract; 89.12 ± 0.23 mg AAE/g extract) in DPPH, ABTS and FRAP tests, respectively. Ajuga iva extracts exhibited a remarkable inhibitory activity against key digestive enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes, with a more potent inhibitory effect against α-glucosidase and a considerable inhibition against α-amylase. The results indicated also that the tested extracts are non-toxic with an LD50 higher than 2 g/kg in female Swiss mice. These results suggested that the phenolic compounds in A. iva extracts maybe behind the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. However, further investigations regarding the bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action are required for developing new natural drugs against diabetes-related hyperglycemia.

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the effect ofAjuga iva(Ai) on enzymes involved in the metabolism of cholesterol, in rat fed a cholesterol-enriched diet.Design/methodology/approachMale Wistar rats (n = 12), weighing 120 ± 5 g were fed on 1 per cent cholesterol-enriched diet [hypercholesterolemic (HC)] for 15 days (d15). After this adaptation phase, HC rats (total cholesterol = 6.5 ± 0.6 mmol/L) were divided into two groups fed the same diet and treated (Ai-HC) or not with (HC) withAifor d15.FindingsAt day 15, inAi-HC group compared to HC, serum triacylglycerol (TG) values were 1.4-fold lower (p = 0.002), whereas unesterified cholesterol (UC) contents were 1.8-fold higher (p = 0.0001). Serum phospholipids (PL) and cholesteryl esters (CE) contents and liver TG, UC, PL and CE values were not sensitive toAi. TC/HDL-C and LDL-HDL1-C/HDL-C ratios were, respectively, 1.8- and 4-fold lower (p = 0.006 andp = 0.04). HDL2-C and HDL3-C amounts were enhanced by 40 and 74 per cent, respectively (p = 0.003 andp = 0.0001). HDL3-UC was 1.6-fold higher (p = 0.006); whereas PL contents were 1.4-fold lower (p = 0.003). HDL3-apo and HDL2-CE contents were similar between groups. A decreased of hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase and cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase activities (−44 and −25 per cent;p = 0.003 andp = 0.02, respectively) were noted. Lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase activity was 1.5-fold higher (p = 0.001).Originality/valueIn HC rat,Aiis able to induce hypotriglyceridemia. However, it turns out thatAimay reduce cardiovascular risk by decreasing the reports of atherogenicity and modifying the activities of enzymes involved in the cholesterol metabolism.

The effect of dietary supplementation with a biotechnological extract of Ajuga reptans on growth performance, oxidative status and immune parameters was evaluated in post weaning piglets. At weaning, 120 piglets with an average live weight of 8.1±1.3 kg, were assigned to one of three experimental groups. The first group was fed a control diet (C). The second and third groups were fed the same diet supplemented with 5 mg (T1) and 10 mg (T2) of teupolioside/kg feed from a biotechnological plant extract. Growth performances were recorded and blood samples were collected at the beginning, at 14 days, and at the end of the trial (56 days). Serum biochemical parameters, oxidative status and immunoglobulin titres were determined. Average daily gain tended to be higher (P=0.057) and live weight was higher in piglets (PAjuga reptans containing teupolioside has an antioxidant and immunomodulant effect.

Ajuga bracteosa Wall. ex Benth. is an endangered medicinal herb traditionally used against different ailments. The present study aimed to create new insight into the fundamental mechanisms of genetic transformation and the biological activities of this plant. We transformed the A. bracteosa plant with rol genes of Agrobacterium rhizogenes and raised the regenerants from the hairy roots. These transgenic regenerants were screened for in vitro antioxidant activities, a range of in vivo assays, elemental analysis, polyphenol content, and different phytochemicals found through HPLC. Among 18 polyphenolic standards, kaempferol was most abundant in all transgenic lines. Furthermore, transgenic line 3 (ABRL3) showed maximum phenolics and flavonoids content among all tested plant extracts. ABRL3 also demonstrated the highest total antioxidant capacity (8.16 ± 1 μg AAE/mg), total reducing power, (6.60 ± 1.17 μg AAE/mg), DPPH activity (IC50 = 59.5 ± 0.8 μg/mL), hydroxyl ion scavenging (IC50 = 122.5 ± 0.90 μg/mL), and iron-chelating power (IC50 = 154.8 ± 2 μg/mL). Moreover, transformed plant extracts produced significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and antidepressant activities in BALB/c mice models. In conclusion, transgenic regenerants of A. bracteosa pose better antioxidant and pharmacological properties under the effect of rol genes as compared to wild-type plants.

Type 2 diabetes is one of the noncommunicable diseases that is becoming a pandemic in Africa. In Morocco, traditional healers have started to use herbal medicines for the treatment of diabetes either individually or in combination with food. The current study aimed to perform an ethnobiological survey of antidiabetic plants use in the Taza region of Morocco. A total of 193 traditional healers were interviewed using a semistructured questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed utilizing the use value (UV), fidelity level (FL), and relative frequency citation (RFC) indices. Forty-six plant species belonging to 28 families were recorded for the treatment of diabetes in the Taza region of Morocco. The most frequently cited plant species are Salvia officinalis, Marrubium vulgare, and Ajuga iva. Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Fabaceae were the most reported families. Leaves are the most used part of plants to prepare drugs, the decoction is the preferred mode of preparation, and remedies are often administered orally. Interestingly, Cytisus battandieri, Urginea maritima, Plantago ovata, and Ziziphus jujuba were reported as new medicinal plants used to treat diabetes in the Taza region of Morocco. People in the Taza region still rely on indigenous plants for their basic healthcare needs. Further research should be carried out to validate the antidiabetic effect of the newly reported plant species. This validation can be investigated by the determination of bioactive compounds and evaluation of their in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic effects.

Dry extracts from the Eurasian plants, Ajuga turkestanica, Eurycoma longifolia, and Urtica dioica have been used as anabolic supplements, despite the limited scientific data on these effects. To assess their actions on early sarcopenia signs, male and female castrated mice were supplemented with lyophilized extracts of the three plants, isolated or in association (named TLU), and submitted to resistance exercise. Ovariectomy (OVX) led to body weight increase and non-high-density cholesterol (HDL) cholesterol elevation, which had been restored by exercise plus U. dioica extract, or by exercise and TLU, respectively. Orchiectomy (ORX) caused skeletal muscle weight loss, accompanied by increased adiposity, being the latter parameter reduced by exercise plus E. longifolia or U. dioica extracts. General physical activity was improved by exercise plus herbal extracts in either OVX or ORX animals. Exercise combined with TLU improved resistance to fatigue in OVX animals, though A. turkestanica enhanced the grip strength in ORX mice. E. longifolia or TLU also reduced the ladder climbing time in ORX mice. Resistance exercise plus herbal extracts partly altered gastrocnemius fiber size frequencies in OVX or ORX mice. We provide novel data that tested ergogenic extracts, when combined with resistance exercise, improved early sarcopenia alterations in castrated male and female mice.

Background. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by a persistent rise in the blood glucose level resulting from defects in cellular insulin function, secretion, or both, which affects millions of people every year. Several drawbacks have been stated with the use of marketed antidiabetic medicines such as drug resistance, adverse effects, toxicities, and even costs. Due to these several limitations, searching for novel antidiabetic medicines from medicinal plants (MPs) is becoming an active area of research. Therefore, MPs are exemplary sources of medicines with many accessible agents being obtained from them because numerous active constituents are isolated from them for direct use as pharmacological medicines or act as lead compounds. This paper was aimed to synthesize a concluding remark using in vitro and in vivo evaluations of extracts and fractions for antidiabetic potentials in Ethiopia, which can be used to direct future clinical trials and related investigations. Method. So as to get data on the different investigations, publications related to experimental evaluations on animal diabetic models in Ethiopia were searched from databases, such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus using English key terms. Results. In this paper, about 37 research findings based on data from various areas of Ethiopia published until the end of November 2020 were included. A total of 37 MP species extracts and fractions belonging to 19 families have been revealed in vitro or in vivo for potential antidiabetic activities. Crude extracts were carried out mostly by hydromethanolic whereas fractions were done mostly by chloroform. Leaves were the most commonly experimentally investigated plant part. Among the MP species experimentally studied, the most frequently used to treat DM in Ethiopia were Thymus schimperi Ronniger (Lamiaceae), Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.; Moringaceae), Ajuga remota Benth (Lamiaceae), and Datura stramonium Linn. (Solanaceae). Conclusion. This paper gives aggregate evidences on the potential antidiabetic activities of MPs in Ethiopia. Antidiabetic MPs used in Ethiopia represent crucial input for the future development of novel antidiabetic drugs. To this end, more pharmacological and toxicological investigations need to be considered to prove the safety of constituents obtained from these MPs. Finally, we recommend upcoming research to ensure future success in the clinical study and development of novel medicines for DM treatment from these frequently evaluated MPs.

Pharmacophagy involves the sequestration of specialised plant metabolites for non-nutritive purposes and commonly occurs in insects. Here we investigate pharmacophagy in the turnip sawfly, Athalia rosae, where adults not only collect specialised metabolites (clerodanoids) from a plant (Ajuga reptans), but also from the exterior of conspecifics via fighting. Using behavioural assays, chemical analytics, and RNAseq we show that when individuals nibble on conspecifics that have already acquired clerodanoids from A. reptans leaves, this nibbling results in the transfer of compounds between individuals. Furthermore, unlike other pharmacophagous insects, the acquisition of clerodanoids by A. rosae from the leaves of A. reptans does not induce the upregulation of known detoxification or sequestration genes and pathways. In contrast, pharmacophagous nibbling on conspecifics results in the upregulation of metabolic pathways associated with elevated metabolic rates and increased energy consumption. It therefore seems that individuals attack conspecifics to acquire clerodanoids despite the apparent metabolic costs of this form of pharmacophagy compared to clerodanoid uptake from a plant. Changes in the metabolic phenotype of A.rosae individuals consequently has profound consequences for social interactions with possible ramifications for their social niche.Summary statementThe turnip sawfly (Athalia rosae) gains potentially beneficial compounds from the leaf surface of non-food plants (e.g. Ajuga reptans), but can also steal these compounds from conspecifics via aggressive nibbling.

Two new diterpenoids, ajudecunoid A (1) and ajudecunoid B (14), along with thirteen known diterpenoids, were isolated from the whole plants of Ajuga nipponensis Makino. Their structures were elucidated by the extensive spectroscopic analysis (UV, IR, MS, and NMR). The absolute configurations of ajudecunoid A (1) and ajudecunoid B (14) were defined through analysis of X-ray crystallography. Fifteen compounds were evaluated for inhibition of the formation of osteoclasts in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMM) cells. Two neo-clerodane diterpenoids ajuganipponin B (5) and (12S)-6α,19-diacetoxy-18-chloro-4α-hydroxy-12-tigloyloxy-neo-clerod-13-en-15,16-olide (12) showed significant inhibition of osteoclastogenesis with IC50 values of 0.88 and 0.79 μM, respectively. Here we firstly reported diterpenoids with anti-osteoclastogenesis activity from A. nipponensis.

Background: Ajuga bracteosa is a traditional herb used against various diseases. Objective: Current research aimed to investigate the anti-diabetic and hepato-protective effect of green synthesized silver nanoparticles (ABAgNPs) using Ajuga bracteosa aqueous extract (ABaqu). Methods: In vitro anti-diabetic and cytotoxic effects were carried out via α- glucosidase inhibition, brine shrimp lethality, and protein kinase inhibition assays. For in vivo screening of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of both ABAgNPs and ABaqu in alloxan-induced and CCl4-induced Swiss albino mice were used. Liver and kidney functional markers, hematology, and histopathological studies were carried out after 14 days of administration. Results: In vivo antidiabetic and anti-cancerous effects showed valuable anti-hyperglycemic and hepato-protective potential when mice were treated with ABaqu and ABAgNPs. A significant reduction in the blood glucose level was recorded when ABaqu and ABAgNPs were administrated orally compared to Glibenclamide treated group. Significant reduction in ALT, AST, ALP, urea, uric acid, and creatinine was recorded in ABaqu and ABAgNPs treated diabetic mice. The hepato-protective findings indicated that ALT, ALP, AST were elevated in CCl4-induced mice while declined in both ABAgNPs and ABaqu treated CCl4-induced mice. Histopathological examination revealed that ABAgNPs have hepato-protective activity. Conclusion: It was concluded that ABAgNPs and ABaqu possessed strong anti-diabetic and hepato-protective phytoconstituents, which could be used in the prevention of diseases.

Control of the crop pest African cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval), by chemical insecticides has led to serious resistance problems. Ajuga plants contain phytoecdysteroids (arthropod steroid hormone analogs regulating metamorphosis) and clerodanes (diterpenoids exhibiting antifeedant activity). We analyzed these compounds in leaf extracts of the Israeli Ajuga iva L. by liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and their efficiency at reducing S.littoralis fitness. First and third instars of S. littoralis were fed castor bean leaves (Ricinus communis) smeared with an aqueous suspension of dried methanolic crude extract of A. iva phytoecdysteroids and clerodanes. Mortality, larval weight gain, relative growth rate and survival were compared to feeding on control leaves. We used &lsquo, 4&rsquo, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI, a fluorescent stain) and phalloidin staining to localize A. iva crude leaf extract activity in the insect gut. Ajuga iva crude leaf extract (50, 100 and 250 &micro, g/&micro, L) significantly increased mortality of first-instar S. littoralis (36%, 70%, and 87%, respectively) compared to controls (6%). Third-instar larval weight gain decreased significantly (by 52%, 44% and 30%, respectively), as did relative growth rate (&minus, 0.05 g/g per day compared to the relevant controls), ultimately resulting in few survivors. Crude leaf extract (250 &micro, L) reduced gut size, with relocation of nuclei and abnormal actin-filament organization. Ajug iva extract has potential for alternative, environmentally safe insect-pest control.

The African cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis, a major crop pest worldwide, is controlled by chemical insecticides, leading to serious resistance problems. Ajuga plants contain phytoecdysteroids (analogs of arthropod steroid hormones that regulate metamorphoses) and clerodanes (diterpenoids exhibiting antifeedant activity). We analyzed phytoecdysteroids and clerodanes in leaf extracts of the Israeli Ajuga iva by LC-TOF-MS and TLC, and their efficiency at reducing S. littoralis fitness. Castor bean leaves were smeared with an aqueous suspension of dried methanolic crude extract of phytoecdysteroid and clerodanes from A. iva leaves (50, 100 and 250 µg/µl). First and third instars of S. littoralis larvae were fed with 1 treated leaf for 3 and 4 days, respectively. Mortality, larval weight gain, relative growth rate and survival were compared to feeding on control leaves. To evaluate and localize A. iva crude leaf extract activity in the insect gut, we used DAPI and phalloidin staining. Crude extract of A. iva leaves (50, 100 and 250 µg/µl) significantly increased mortality of first instar S. littoralis larvae (36%, 70% and 87%, respectively) compared to controls (6%). Third instar larval weight gain decreased significantly (by 52%, 44% and 30%, respectively), as did relative growth rate (–0.05 g/g day, compared to the relevant controls). S. littoralis larvae were further affected at later stages, with few survivors. Insect-gut staining showed that 250 µg/µl crude leaf extract reduces gut size, with relocation of nuclei and abnormal actin-filament organization. Our results demonstrate the potential of A. iva extract for alternative, environmentally safe insect-pest control. Key Message Insects cause severe damage to numerous crops and their control relies on pesticides. Green control is becoming increasingly popular due to concerns about the negative impacts of pesticides on the environment. Phytoecdysteroids are found in Ajuga plants and affect a wide range of insects at very low concentrations. Here we demonstrate that crude extract from Ajuga iva alters the development of Spodoptera littoralis. Phytoecdysteroids may therefore be beneficial in IPM programs.

Background. In gynodioecious species, populations of two types of individuals are found – bisexual and female. The morphological and biological characteristics of these two morphs are different. A. reptans is an example of a gynodioecious species. However, information about the flowering biology of both its sexual forms is extremely fragmented. The aim of our research is to study the flowering of A. reptans’ bisexual and female morphs in the Moscow region. Materials and methods. Anthecological observations were made in natural conditions in the Moscow region from 2015 to 2019 according to generally accepted methods. Results. The floral unit of A. reptans is the apical open bracteose thyrsus, which has constituent elements of 3 or 5 flower cymoids. In lateral dichasium, the flower opens acropetally; in the thyrsus, flowers on the axis bloom almost simultaneously. Bisexual flowers of A. reptans are characterized by a weak protandry. Bisexual and pistillate flowers have a long lifespan, surviving for 12–13 days without pollination. A. reptans is characterized by a daily flowering rhythm, with two maximums at 9 a.m and 12 a.m. Bisexual and pistillate flowers open simultaneously. Conclusions. A number of anthecological characters of A. reptans demonstrate that it flowers in spring: the lack of a clear acropetal sequence in the order of flowers blooming in a thyrsus, the long lifespan of both bisexual and pistillate flowers, the opening of flowers during almost all daylight hours, and a fairly short flowering period, due to the need for development in a strictly defined period of vegetation.

Herbal plants have been a source of food for human beings for many years; they have also frequently been used as an alternative to modern medicine. Because synthetic drugs have possible side effects and are often considerably expensive, understanding how various plants are used for the treatment of specific ailments has become increasingly important. Plant extracts contain multiple active constituents and this has led to the production of new drugs and chemicals derived from the various parts of plants. In Anatolian folk medicine, Ajuga L. (Lamiaceae) species are used by people in many villages and towns for the therapeutic value of their bioactive components. This study was thus designed to examine the possible bioactive components of Ajuga bombycina Boiss. (an endemic species) and Ajuga chamaepitys subsp. laevigata (Banks & Sol.) P.H.Davis. In the study the bioactive components of the GC-MS analysis of dried leaves and flower samples were screened using an Agilent 7890B GC- 5977MSD model with hexane as solvent. Phytochemicals which have a wide range of biological applications and high therapeutic value were found in the samples.

Many species of the genus Ajuga (family Lamiaceae) contain phytoecdysteroids and clerodane diterpenes. Phytoecdysteroids are triterpene-derived analogues of steroid hormones that control molting and metamorphosis in arthropods, whereas clerodanes deter phytophagous insects. We identified and quantified phytoecdysteroid and clerodane contents in three Ajuga plant species in Israel. Leaves and roots of Ajuga iva, Ajuga chamaepitys (Ajuga chia), and Ajuga orientalis were collected from three different populations. Using liquid chromatography–time of flight–mass spectrometry analysis, we identified three phytoecdysteroids: 20-hydroxyecdysone (ecdysterone), makisterone A, and cyasterone and two clerodanes: dihydroajugapitin and columbin. Their contents varied significantly among plant species, organs, and populations. The highest concentrations of 20-hydroxyecdysone, makisterone A, and cyasterone were recorded in leaves and roots of A. iva. Cyasterone content tended to be higher in leaves of A. chamaepitys. Cl...

Phenylpropanoids 3,4-dihydroxy-β-phenylethoxy-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→3)-4-O-caffeoyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (1) and 3,4-dihydroxy-β-phenylethoxy-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→3)-4-O-feruloyl-β-D-glucopyronoside (2) were isolated for the first time during studies of the chemical composition of Ajuga turkestanica (Regel) Briq. callus tissue.

Members of the mint family (Lamiaceae) accumulate a wide variety of industrially and medicinally relevant diterpenes. We recently sequenced leaf transcriptomes from 48 phylogenetically diverse Lamiaceae species. Here, we summarize the available chemotaxonomic and enzyme activity data for diterpene synthases (diTPSs) in the Lamiaceae and leverage the new transcriptomes to explore the diTPS sequence and functional space. Candidate genes were selected with an intent to evenly sample the sequence homology space and to focus on species in which diTPS transcripts were found, yet from which no diterpene structures have been previously reported. We functionally characterized nine class II diTPSs and 10 class I diTPSs from 11 distinct plant species and found five class II activities, including two novel activities, as well as a spectrum of class I activities. Among the class II diTPSs, we identified a neo-cleroda-4(18),13E-dienyl diphosphate synthase from Ajuga reptans, catalyzing the likely first step in the biosynthesis of a variety of insect-antifeedant compounds. Among the class I diTPSs was a palustradiene synthase from Origanum majorana, leading to the discovery of specialized diterpenes in that species. Our results provide insights into the diversification of diterpene biosynthesis in the mint family and establish a comprehensive foundation for continued investigation of diterpene biosynthesis in the Lamiaceae.

The present review is aimed at providing a comprehensive summary of the botanical characteristics, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological studies of the genus Ajuga L. The extensive literature survey revealed Ajuga L. species to be a group of important medicinal plants used for the ethnomedical treatment of rheumatism, fever, gout, sclerosis, analgesia, inflammation, hypertension, hyperglycemia, joint pain, palsy, amenorrhea, etc., although only a few reports address the clinical use and toxicity of these plants. Currently, more than 280 chemical constituents have been isolated and characterized from these plants. Among these constituents, neo-clerodane diterpenes and diterpenoids, phytoecdysteroids, flavonoids, and iridoids are the major bioactive compounds, possessing wide-reaching biological activities both in vivo and in vitro, including anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antitumor, anti-oxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antifeedant, antidiarrhoeal, hypolipidemic, diuretic, hypoglycaemic, immunomodulatory, vasorelaxant, larvicidal, antimutagenic, and neuroprotective activity. This review is aimed at summarizing the current knowledge of the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, biological activities, and toxicities of the genus Ajuga L. to reveal its therapeutic potentials, offering opportunities for future researches. Therefore, more focus should be paid to gathering information about their toxicology data, quality-control measures, and the clinical application of the bioactive ingredients from Ajuga L. species.

This study investigates into the pharmacological potential of three solvent extracts (ethyl acetate, methanol, and water) of two Ajuga species (Ajuga chamaepitys subsp. chia var. chia and Ajuga bom...

Light is an important physical factor necessary for the growth, morphogenesis and production of bioactive compounds in plants. In this study, effects of different photoperiod regimes and hormonal elicitors were investigated on the accumulation of biomass, antioxidant potential and biosynthesis of secondary volatiles in the cell cultures of Ajuga bracteosa. Maximum accumulation of biomass (13.2 g/L) was recorded in cell cultures established at 1.0 mg/L benzylaminopurine (BA) in exposure to continuous dark. Biochemical assays showed that in the presence of 0.5 methyl jasmonate (Me-J), cell cultures grown under continuous dark had the higher activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD: 4.5 U/mg), peroxidase (POD: 3.1 U/mg), total phenolic content (TPC: 8.1 mg GAE/g of DW) and total flavonoid content (TFC: 5.2 mg QE/g of DW) respectively. Nonetheless, the free radical scavenging activity (FRSA) was found correlated with the phenyl ammonia lyase (PAL) activity in the dark grown cell cultures. Analysis through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) showed, biosynthesis of 29 compounds in the in vitro raised cell cultures. The major identified compounds consisted of monoterpene hydrocarbons such as β-pinene (2.1–9.5%), β-ocimene (1.4–8.3%), 1-terpinene-4-ol (5.8–9.6%), caryophyllene (1.3–6.2%), β-farnesene (0.82–7.8), oxygenated monoterpenes including myrtenal (2.2–8.4%), citronellyl acetate (2.1–7.3%) and sesquiterpenes such as caryophyllene oxide (1.5–5.5) and β-elemene (2.2–8.8%). This protocol has the potential for commercial production of important secondary volatiles.

Hepatitis C is a serious health issue and cause liver disorders in millions of people. Available therapeutic agents require long term administration with numerous side effects. Therefore, there is a dire need to find alternative treatment options for this disease. Since ancient times, medicinal plants are widely used to cure various diseases with no or less harmful effects. Therefore, this study was designed to find out phytochemicals and investigate antiviral activity of methanol extract of Ajuga bracteosa, Ajuga parviflora, Berberis lycium and Citrus lemon against Hepatitis C Virus (HCV infection). Phytochemical analysis of the plant extract was performed using various chemical tests. Toxicity of the plant extract was determined against using trypan blue exclusion method. Antiviral activity of the selected plant extract was find out against HCV infected HepG2 cells. For this purpose, HepG2 cells were seeded with HCV positive and negative serum and nontoxic doses of plant extract for 24 and 48 h. After this RNA was extracted and viral load was determined using Real-time PCR. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of flavonoids and phenols in all plant extracts while amino acids, alkaloids and tannins were present in B. lycium and saponins were detected in C. lemon. Toxicity assay showed that all plant extracts were nontoxic at maximum concentration of 200 μg/ml except B. lycium, which showed mild toxicity at 40 μg/ml and were extremely toxic at 60 μg/ml and above doses. Real-time PCR quantitation result revealed that after 24 h treatments A. parviflora showed highest antiviral activity, followed by A. bracteosa, while B. lycium extract had low (35%) and C. lemon has no antiviral effects. The 48 h treatments showed an increase antiviral activity by A. bracteosa followed by A. parviflora and B. lycium while C. lemon showed negative effect. Our results depicted that mentioned plants might be used as an alternative therapeutic regime or in combination with existing treatments against HCV., Highlights • A. bracteosa, A. parviflora, B. lycium and C. lemon methanol extract were checked for antiviral activity against HCV. • The antiviral activity was in the order of A. parviflora > A. bracteosa > B. lycium. • C. lemon has a negative effect and increase the HCV load.

The genus Ajuga, a member of the Lamiaceae family, is comprised of more than 300 species of annual and perennial herbaceous flowering plants mainly distributed throughout the temperate regions of Asia, Europe, Australia, North America and Africa. These plants are used as folk medicines effective for rheumatic fevers, dysentery, malaria, hypertension, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as anthelmintic, astringent, febrifuge diuretic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory agents. A variety of constituents has been isolated from these plants. This review summarizes the phytochemical progress of the genus Ajuga and lists the compounds isolated up to 2014.

Ajuga plants have had a long history of ethnopharmacological use worldwide. Based on the papers published so far, it seems that there has been a great interest in isolation, structural elucidation and testing of non-volatile Ajuga phytochemicals. The composition of hydrodistilled aerial part volatiles obtained from six populations of wild-growing A. laxmannii was investigated by means of GC and GC-MS analysis. The oils were screened for in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activity against a panel of laboratory control strains using the broth microdilution assay. The analyses resulted in the identification of one hundred fourteen constituents, accounting for 79.6-97.3% of the total composition of the oils. The main components of the analyzed samples were (E)-phytol (5.3-26.1%), nonacosane (2.3-25.6%), coumarin (tr-22.7%), 1-octen-3-ol (0-21.2%), (Z)-3-hexen-l-ol (0-20.5%), linalool (0-13.7%) and heptacosane (0.6-10.5%), which all together contributing more than two thirds to the compounds detected. Among the microorganisms tested the most susceptible strain was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (minimal inhibitory/bactericidal concentration = 1.25/2.5 mg mL-1).

The genus Ajuga L., belonging to Lamiaceae family, is widespread. The demand for Ajuga species has risen sharply because of their medicinal, ornamental, and pharmacological properties. These wide-ranging plants are being rapidly depleted due to over-collection for ornamental and medicinal purposes, as well as by habitat destruction and deforestation. Ajuga boninsimae, A. bracteosa, A. ciliate, A. genevensis, A. incisa, A. makinoi, A. multiflora, A. pyramidalis, A. shikotanensis, A. reptans, and A. vestita are categorized and protected as endangered plants. In vitro plant culture has therefore emerged for the conservation and mass clonal propagation of rare plants. This mini-review covers the current in vitro scenario in the propagation of Ajuga species. Adventitious or axillary shoots are initiated on the leaf, petiole and internodes, as well as roots, nodes, and shoot tip explants. Shoot induction is predominantly dependent on plant growth regulators added to the culture medium. Full- or half-strength Murashige and Skoog medium with or without auxin is used for in vitro rooting. Rooted shoots need to be acclimatized in the greenhouse with an estimated 82-100% survival rate.

The leaf essential oil of Ajuga iva growing wild in Mascara region situated in the North West of Algeria, has been obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC and GC-MS. We proposed to determine the physicochemical, organoleptic and chemical identification of these components. Twenty two volatile compounds were identified which included: dienestrol (54.04%), eucalyptol (27%), o-xylene (7.98 %), 1-octadecanol (5.80%); 3-carene (4.46%), (E)-2,3,6- trimethoxypentafulvene-1-carbonitrile (4.34%), (-)-spathulenol (1.77%), nonanal (1.24%). The oil from Ajuga iva showed activities against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus,Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeroginosa.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common cancer in Southeast Asia, for which radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy are the primary treatment methods. Many herbs are known to have potential uses in chemotherapy; however, the mechanisms underlying the observed antitumor activity of Ajuga bracteosa (AB) against NPC remain unclear. We explored the antitumor effects of AB, which was shown specifically to induce mitotic delay in pharyngeal (Detroit 562) and nasopharyngeal (Hone-1) cancer cells. Proliferation of cancer cells after exposure to aqueous extract of A. bracteosa (AEAB) was assessed using the MTT assay. DNA content and cell cycle arrest induction were analyzed using flow cytometry. The expression of checkpoint kinase 2 (CHK2), cell division control protein 2 (CDC2), and cyclin B1 was investigated using qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Results indicated the inhibition of cancer cell growth following exposure to AEAB. In addition, AEAB induced the accumulation of G2/M-phase cells in cancer cell through the disassociation of CDC2/cyclin B1 complex. Our findings suggested that, in addition to the known effects of AEAB in NPC prevention, it may have antitumor activities against NPC cells. In conclusion, AEAB inhibits the growth of and induces mitotic delay in cancer cells, supporting its use as an anticancer agent.

The African cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis, a major crop pest worldwide, is controlled by chemical insecticides, leading to serious resistance problems. Ajuga plants contain phytoecdysteroids (analogs of arthropod steroid hormones that regulate metamorphoses) and clerodanes (diterpenoids exhibiting antifeedant activity). We analyzed phytoecdysteroids and clerodanes in leaf extracts of the Israeli Ajuga iva by LC-TOF-MS and TLC, and their efficiency at reducing S. littoralis fitness. Castor bean leaves were smeared with an aqueous suspension of dried methanolic crude extract of phytoecdysteroid and clerodanes from A. iva leaves (50, 100 and 250 µg/µl). First and third instars of S. littoralis larvae were fed with 1 treated leaf for 3 and 4 days, respectively. Mortality, larval weight gain, relative growth rate and survival were compared to feeding on control leaves. To evaluate and localize A. iva crude leaf extract activity in the insect gut, we used DAPI and phalloidin staining. Crude extract of A. iva leaves (50, 100 and 250 µg/µl) significantly increased mortality of first instar S. littoralis larvae (36%, 70% and 87%, respectively) compared to controls (6%). Third instar larval weight gain decreased significantly (by 52%, 44% and 30%, respectively), as did relative growth rate (–0.05 g/g day, compared to the relevant controls). S. littoralis larvae were further affected at later stages, with few survivors. Insect-gut staining showed that 250 µg/µl crude leaf extract reduces gut size, with relocation of nuclei and abnormal actin-filament organization. Our results demonstrate the potential of A. iva extract for alternative, environmentally safe insect-pest control.Key MessageInsects cause severe damage to numerous crops and their control relies on pesticides. Green control is becoming increasingly popular due to concerns about the negative impacts of pesticides on the environment. Phytoecdysteroids are found in Ajuga plants and affect a wide range of insects at very low concentrations. Here we demonstrate that crude extract from Ajuga iva alters the development of Spodoptera littoralis. Phytoecdysteroids may therefore be beneficial in IPM programs.

International audience; Ajuga integrifolia Buch. Ham. ex D.Don is pharmacologically important plant, commonly known as Kori Booti. Phytochemicals of this plant are used to treat variety of illnesses, ranging from mild tooth ache to malaria and inflammatory diseases. In present study, exogenous role of plant signaling molecules such as salicylic acid (SA) and gibberellic acid (GA) were investigated for enhanced phytochemistry and biological activities in multiple shoot culture of A. integrifolia. Shoots were exposed to various concentrations of SA and GA, and data was collected after 21 days. Significant increase in biomass (dry weight (DW): 17.9 g/L) was observed in response to GA (5.0 mg/L) as compared with SA and control. High performance liquid chromatography was employed to quantify eleven major secondary compounds. Results indicated that salicylic acid promoted phytochemical production in shoot cultures whereas gibberellic acid down regulated their biosynthesis. Salicylic acid (150 μM) was found optimum for maximum accumulation of majority of compounds, while rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid levels were higher in response to SA (75 μM) and SA (300 μM), respectively. In vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were significantly increased under SA (150 μM) treatment suggesting a direct correlation in phytochemical biosynthesis and their respective biological activities.

Traditional healers and the community have used the roots of Ajuga integrifolia for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. It is not scientifically validated for its antidiabetic activity previously. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the hypoglycemic and antidiabetic activity of Ajuga integrifolia. Ajuga integrifolia roots’ crude extract and solvent fractions were prepared. The doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg of crude root extract and solvent fractions were used on normoglycemic, oral glucose loaded, and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice models to determine their hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activities. The crude extract and solvent fractions’ effect on bodyweight was also evaluated on streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. A standard drug in all cases was glibenclamide (5 mg/kg), and the blood glucose level was measured by using a glucose meter. Data analysis was performed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. One-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s post hoc multiple comparison test was used to analyze the data. p value p < 0.05 ) bodyweight improvement at the 14th day of treatment compared to the respective baseline bodyweight, and the diabetic control group showed significant ( p < 0.01 ) reduction in bodyweight at the 14th day compared to the baseline. This study revealed that crude extract and solvent fractions of Ajuga integrifolia root possess significant antidiabetic activity which supports its traditional use for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Oxidative stress was associated with several diseases. Many epidemiologic studies showed that antioxidant supplementation decreases the state of oxidative stress. The present work aims to study the in vitro antioxidant activity of different parts of Ajuga iva aqueous extract (AIE) simultaneously with a phytochemically analyze. The antioxidant activities of AIE were evaluated in terms of total antioxidant capacity evaluated by the phosphomolybdenum essay and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical method, as well as the ferric ion reducing power (FRP) and ferrous ion chelating (FIC) assays. All extracts showed a potent antioxidant activity and a powerful scavenging capacity in comparison with the ascorbic acid (AA) used as reference molecule. Importantly, Ajuga iva leaves exhibited the highest activity in comparison with stems and roots.

Talebi SM, Tabaripour R, Eskandari M. 2019. Analysis of nutlet morphological characteristics of some Iranian Ajuga L. taxa. Biodiversitas 20: 2833-2840. Ajuga is one of the problematic Lamiaceae genera, which naturally grows in different parts of Iran. There are many discussions about infrageneric and infraspecific classifications of the genus and several synonyms were definite for its taxa. In the current study, we evaluated nutlet morphological characteristics from six Iranian taxa of the genus using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Light microscopy (LM). In total, thirteen (four qualitative and nine quantitative) nutlet morphological variables were investigated, and the obtained data were analyzed using MVSP and SPSS software. Quantitative nutlet features varied among the studied taxa and ANOVA test revealed significant variations (P

Aim.Identification and determination of the qualitative composition and quantitative content of fatty acids in the grass of Ajuga reptans. Methods of the research.The study of Ajuga reptans fatty acids was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, which is based on the formation of fatty acid methyl esters with their subsequent determination. Results.The method of chromatography-mass spectrometry was the first to study the fatty acid composition of (Ajuga reptans L.). As a result of a study in the herb of Ajuga reptans , 22 substances were identified, of which 9 fatty acids were identified. The quantitative content was dominated by polyunsaturated fatty acids - linolenic and linoleic and saturated - palmitic. Their total content in terms of the sum of fatty acids was 56.71 % (unsaturated), 28.18 % saturated. A small amount of following substances was detected - stearic, eicosanoic, tetracosanoic, behenic acid (6.65 %). Conclusions.Fatty acids are important biocompounds, which are involved in complex metabolic processes, are important components of lipids and cell membranes in the form of phospholipids, thereby have a large biological role. Unsaturated fatty acids were found in significant quantities in the herb of common bugle, the amount of which was 4706.78 mg / kg, which was almost 1.4 times higher than the amount of saturated fatty acids (3380.83 mg / kg). The research results can be used in the development of quality control methods for common bugle raw materials and the preparation of biologically active substances from the studied raw materials