Search

Red seaweed species Eucheuma cottonii was thought to have potential as an anesthetic agent because it is shown to contain compounds with bioactivity as antimicrobial, antifungal, and also anticancer. There have been no studies regarding the active ingredients of anesthetized. The objective of the study was to examine the potential of E. cottonii extract as a candidate for fish anesthetic based on toxicity, phytochemistry, and active compounds contained in the extract. The stages of research include extraction, toxicity test extracts (BSLT), phytochemical test, quantitative test compound phytochemical results, and the identification of active compounds with LC-MS. Test results showed that E. cottonii extract contains a total of phenols of 4.60 ± 0.06 mg/GAE g which is one presentation of the active ingredient in the extract. The extract had bioactivity with LC50 of 221.71 ± 5.74 μg/mL. E. cottonii extract contained flavonoids compounds and saponins with a consecutive number of 24.48% and 0.22%. The results of identifying active compounds were found in several compounds that had activity asantidepressants or sedatives. E. cottonii extract can be used as a candidate for a fish anesthetic agent.

The genus Aloe (family: Xanthorrhoeaceae) encompasses 490 shrubby-succulent-perennial species which are native to Africa. Among these, Aloe vera has grabbed the limelight in the arena of herbal medicine due to the presence of unique phytochemicals such as Aloin A and B, Homonataloin, Aloe emodin, acemannan etc. in its latex. Moreover, its leaf extract contains 99% water, and 75 active compounds including vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, C, and E), minerals (Zn, Se, Na, Mn, Mg, K, Cu, Cr, Ca), amino acids, and enzymes (peroxidase, lipase, cellulase, catalase, carboxypeptidase, bradykinase, amylase, alkaline phosphatase). Thus, Aloe vera is revered as a ‘wonder plant’ as it possesses multiple pharmaceutical properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-fungal, anti-diabetic, anti-ulcer, anti-hypertensive and its juice helps to cure gastrointestinal disorders, and dermal diseases, it also strengthens the immune system. Being a xerophyte, Aloe vera is commercially cultivated in many countries which include South Africa, America, Australia, India etc. The Aloe gel, is meticulously extracted, processed and stabilized before using it in preparation of various health care products. This review focuses on the explicit information on origin, botanical description, phytochemistry, nutritional and medicinal benefits, with special emphasis on value-added products of Aloe vera. The review revealed 46 value-added Aloe-products that are being manufactured by different companies worldwide. Thus, sustainable Aloe-cultivation must be ensured to meet the rising global demands for Aloe vera gel and allied products.

Background: Fagonia arabica, belonging to family Zygophyllaceae, is a medicinal plant widely distributed in the desert areas of the world, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, India and South Africa. The present review aims to explore the published information on the traditional uses, ethnobotanical knowledge, phytochemistry and various biological activities like antioxidant, antimicrobial, thrombolytic activities and anticoagulant effects of Fagonia arabica with critical analysis on the gaps and future perspectives. Method: A literature survey was performed by searching the digital libraries and the scientific databases including Scopus, Google Scholar, SciFinder, ACS, Web of Science and published books. Results: Fagonia arabica plant has been reported to have a wide range of traditional uses in sore mouth, smallpox, hematological, neurological, endocrinological, inflammatory, cooling agent in stomatitis, vertigo and endothermic reaction in the body. Several bioactive constituents, including glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids and trace elements, were recorded from Fagonia arabica plant. The isolation and identification of two flavonoid glycosides (kaempferol-7- O-rhamnoside and acacetin-7-O-rhamnoside) were also reported. Fagonia arabica has been studied for its wide range of biological activities, which include antioxidant, antimicrobial, cardioprotective and anticoagulant. Conclusion: It is apparent from the literature that Fagonia arabica plant possesses a wide range of medicinal and pharmacological uses and has been studied for its various pharmacological activities and medicinal applications. Critical analysis reveals that the plant has huge potential for pharmaceutical and pharmacological applications.

The collection of scientific works was prepared based on the materials of the VI International Scientific Conference of Scientists and contains articles and abstracts of reports, which highlight the results of research in resource science, introduction, selection and seed production, agricultural techniques of cultivation and protection of crops from pests and diseases, phytochemical research, the use of medicinal plants and ecological aspects of growing medicinal plants. Сборник научных работ подготовлен по материалам VI Международной научной конференции ученых и содержит статьи и тезисы докладов, в которых освещены результаты исследований по ресурсоведению, интродукции, селекции и семеноводства, агротехники выращивания и защиты посевов от вредителей и болезней, фитохимических исследований, использования лекарственных растений и экологических аспектов выращивания лекарственных растений.

The significance of medicinal plants to modern allotropic healthcare is increasingly recognized in every part of the world. A global resurgence in the exploration and identification of plants of restorative significance is the outcome. Since ancient times, people are using the variety of ethnomedicinal plants for their primary health care and Meyna spinose Roxb. Ex. is one of them. It belongs to the genus Meyna and the family Rubiaceae. The plant is spread over a vast area of tropic and sub-tropical zones of the world. It is mainly found in north-east and southern part of India. It is used by the local people in various ethnomedicinal practices ranging from a simple cure for the common cold to diabetic conditions, skin infection, painful urination, hepatic disorder, intestinal worm, dysentery, indigestion, and abortifacient activity. Apart from variety of ethnomedicinal uses, it is also known for its wide range of pharmacological uses such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, nephroprotective and hepatoprotective potential. M. spinose also act as a stockroom for innumerable bioactive secondary metabolites (such as triterpenes, phytosterols, flavonoids, fatty alcohol, hydroxy acid etc.) and minerals (like Fe, Cu, Zn, Mo, Mn Cr. Etc.). The aim of present article is to summarize the key findings regarding the folk medicinal uses, phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of different parts of M. spinosa along with their future prospective.

Euphorbia L. is the largest genus in the plant family Euphorbiaceae with about 2000 species ranging from herbs to trees. Plants of this genus are used around the world to treat different kinds of ailments such as skin diseases, migraine, gonorrhoea and intestinal parasites. The present review aims to provide a comprehensive summary on the medicinal uses, pharmacology, cytotoxicity, and phytochemistry of the Euphorbia species in southern Africa. The literature search was performed through scientific databases such as Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, JSTOR, and Scopus. Textbooks and dissertations were also consulted. A total of 35 Euphorbia species that are used in traditional medicine in southern Africa were identified. Although 35 species are used as traditional medicines, pharmacological, cytotoxicity and phytochemical studies have been carried out only on 16, 19 and 9 species, respectively. The investigated species have exhibited a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiplasmodial, antioxidant, anticancer, larvicidal and molluscicidal. They also exhibited cytotoxicity activities against various cell lines, including A549, CACO2, CS12, HELA, HrpG2 and MCF-7. Phytochemical studies have resulted in the isolation and identification of several compounds including 7-galloyl catechin, 3β-acetyloxy-olean-13, β-amyrin, caffeic acid, euphol, euphorbin, luteolin and quercetin. Although the medicinal uses of Euphorbia species in southern Africa have been well documented, the pharmacological and phytochemical studies are limited. Therefore, further studies to validate the use of Euphorbia species as traditional medicines and to isolate and identify active compounds are warranted.

Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae) is a species widely used in traditional medicine in various regions of the world, mainly in Asian countries such as India and Pakistan. The anticancer potential of this species has been reported in the literature, indicating that its chemical compounds may be effective against different tumor cell lines. The present work aimed to carry out a systematic review on the traditional uses, chemical composition, toxicity, and anticancer potential of C. rotundus. Scientific articles were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed®, ScienceDirect®, and SciELO. Only works published in the last twenty years (2000-2020) were eligible. A total of 85 articles were included in the review. According to the scientific documents analyzed, C. rotundus is widely used for stomach disorders (11%), diarrhea and/or dysentery (11%), fever (10%), menstrual problems (9%), diuresis (9%), and worms (8%). Regarding the in vivo and in vitro anticancer potential, the extracts, fractions, and essential oils from C. rotundus were effective against colorectal, breast, prostate, ovarian, endometrial, liver and cervical cancer, leukemia, and neuroblastoma cell lines. A total of 49 chemical compounds belonging to the classes of sesquiterpenes, iridoid glycosides, and phenolics were identified in this review. Extracts obtained from C. rotundus did not show toxicity in preclinical tests. The pharmacological investigation of the chemical compounds isolated from this plant is important to elucidate the mechanisms of action against cancer cell lines.

Root-knot nematodes, genus Meloidogyne, are among the most plant damaging pathogens worldwide. The action of natural products against plant pathogens has been investigated to assess their effectiveness in the control of diseases. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the phytochemistry potential of the Ficus species for the control of Meloidogyne javanica. In vitro inhibitory activity assays were performed with crude ethanolic extracts of leaves and branches from 10 Ficus species. Among these, Ficus carica extracts exhibited strong paralysis activity against second stage juveniles (J2) (EC50 = 134.90 μg ∙ ml–1), after 72 hours. In addition, high efficacy was observed in egg-hatching inhibition at different embryonic stages. Microscopy analysis revealed severe morphological alterations in the nematode tissues at the J2 stage, as well as immotility of juveniles released from eggs in the presence of F. carica extracts. The efficacy of the treatments for the other species was very low. These differences were supported by the variation in the compound classes, mainly for alkaloids and metabolite profiles by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) when F. carica was compared with the other species. The results indicated that F. carica is a promising source for the isolation and identification of molecules capable of acting in the control of M. javanica.

Analysis of wood transects in a manner that preserves the spatial distribution of the metabolites present is highly desirable to among other things: (1) facilitate ecophysiology studies that reveal the association between chemical make-up and environmental factors or climatic events over time; and (2) investigate the mechanisms of the synthesis and trafficking of small molecules within specialised tissues. While a variety of techniques could be applied to achieve these goals, most remain challenging and impractical. Laser ablation direct analysis in real time imaging-mass spectrometry (LADI-MS) was successfully used to survey the chemical profile of wood, while also preserving the small-molecule spatial distributions. The tree species Entandrophragma candollei Harms, Millettia laurentii DeWild., Pericopsis elata (Harms) Meeuwen, Dalbergia nigra (Vell.) Benth. and Dalbergia normandii BosserR.Rabev were analysed. Several compounds were associated with anatomical features. A greater diversity was detected in the vessels and parenchyma compared with the fibres. Analysis of single vessels revealed that the chemical fingerprint used for timber identification is mainly determined by vessel content. Laser ablation direct analysis in real time imaging-mass spectrometry offers unprecedented opportunities to investigate the distribution of metabolites within wood samples, while circumventing the issues associated with previous methods. This technique opens up new vistas for the discovery of small-molecule biomarkers that are linked to environmental events.

The demand for novel and improved medicine from biological sources to cater to the biopharmaceutical sector has increased significantly in recent years. Among the vast and miscellaneous microbial diversity, fungi provide a prolific source of structurally unique and biologically active secondary metabolites. Natural products obtained from fungi have reformed the era of biomedicine, providing effective drugs that have diverse healing potential. In this review, we focus on the isolation, chemical structure, and bioactivity of biomolecules that have been identified and studied for the first time. Further, we also explain in substantial detail that how the vast uninvestigated Emericellopsis and Simplicillium species may serve as a potential treasure trove of chemically diverse compounds.

Persistent hyperglycaemia is the hallmark of diabetes and is accountable for the devastating complications, which cause high morbidity and mortality. Conventional anti-diabetic agents are only palliative and characterised with limited efficacy, adverse effects, high costs, inaccessibility, prompting the need for better alternatives. Therefore, we investigated the in vivo hypoglycaemic activities, elemental composition, and qualitative phytochemistry of the aqueous leaf extracts of P. zanzibarica and O. europaea subspecies africana as potential sources of affordable, safer, accessible, and potent anti-diabetic therapies. In vivo hypoglycaemic activities of the studied plant extracts were evaluated at three dose levels of 50, 100, and 150 mg/Kg body weight (bw) in Alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic Swiss albino mice. The elemental composition of the plant extracts was analysed using the energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (EDXRF System) and the atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Qualitative phytochemical screening was done following standard procedures. In this study, the aqueous leaf extract of P. zanzibarica, significantly (pth h) at a dose of 50 mg/Kg body weight, 166.98±1.56 mg/dL (at 0h) to 48.90±1.40 mg/dL (at 4th h) at a dose of 100 mg/Kg body weight, and 168.64±2.96 mg/dL (at 0h) to 42.46±1.80 mg/dL (at 4th h) at a dose of 150 mg/Kg body weight, respectively. Similarly, the aqueous leaf extract of O. europaea subspecies africana significantly (pth h) at a dose of 50 mg/Kg body weight, 158.14±3.49 mg/dL (at 0h) to 53.68±1.48 mg/dL (at the 4th h) at a dose of 100 mg/Kg body weight, and from 161.66±2.19 mg/dL (at 0h) to 44.48±1.35 mg/dL (at the 4th h) at a dose of 150 mg/Kg body weight, respectively Furthermore, the extracts contained chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), among other elements, and phytochemicals like phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids, among others. Generally, the studied plant extracts exhibited significant hypoglycaemic efficacy in alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic mice, indicating their antidiabetic potential, and possess pharmacologically active phytochemicals and valuable minerals.

The leaves and seeds of Aframomum alboviolaceum and Aframomum angustifolium are specifically used by traditional healers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the treatment of several pathologies. The aim of present study was to determine the microscopic characteristics and phytochemical composition of these species of the genus Aframomum. The microscopic study of these plants revealed the presence of punctate vessels, fiber cluster with calcium oxalate crystals, isolated unicellular hair, fibers, starch grains, spiral vessel fragments, fiber fragments, and indistinct parenchyma fragments. Phytochemical screening revealed several chemical groups such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, terpenes, iridoids, saponins etc. The determination of total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins gave contents ranging from 14.95 ± 0.45 and 63.98 ± 2.04 mgGAE/g, 0.16 ± 0.01 and 10.68 ± 0.32 mgQE/g and between 1.28 ± 0.03 and 28.51 ± 0.56 mg CAE/g respectively. In general, the leaves are richer in secondary metabolites, polyphenols, flavonoids and tannin than the seeds. Both plants also contain iron, magnesium, calcium and sodium. To our knowledge, this is the first time that histological elements have been identified in the leaves and seeds of A. angustifolium.

Wrightia tinctoria is a medium sized ever green tree grows up to 18 m tall and to 20 cm which produces milky white latex from the leaves which is directly applied on inflammation. Since from ancient period this plant constantly been used as a source of medicine. This plant shows a very important component of the health care system in India. In ayurvedic system the drug activity of W.tinctoria is defined as titka, kashaya, rooksha, sita and katu. Various parts of this plant such as stem bark, leaves, flowers also seed have been known to have medicinal assets. Phytochemical studies have shown that it contains alkaloids, triterpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, phenolics, carbohydrates, lipids etc. Wrightia tinctoria has been allotted to have good analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antiulcer, antidysentric, antidiabetic, anticancer, antipyretic activities as well as active in the treatment of psoriasis. The present review primed to describe the botanical classification, vernacular names, species, Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Properties and pharmacological activities of the plant Wrightia tinctoria.

Background: Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba (white cabbage) is a cruciferous vegetable used as a vegetable and traditional medicine all over the world. Different preparation from several parts of the plant- roots, shoots, leaves, and the whole plant are used to treat a wide range of diseases, including diabetes, cancer, gastric, inflammation, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, bacterial, oxidation, and obesity. Objective: The aim of the current review is to evaluate the botany, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of B. oleracea var. capitata. Moreover, this review will guide to fill the existing gaps in information and highlight additional research prospects in the field of phytochemistry and pharmacology. Method: Various resources, including research papers, review papers, books, and reports, were collected to obtain overall information on Brassica oleracea var. capitata, which were obtained by an online search of worldwide-accepted scientific databases. Phytochemical constituents’ structures were drawn by ChemDraw software. Results: About 72 isolated phytochemical compounds of B. oleracea var. capitata have been collected from different articles, which included different types of compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, organic acids, glucosinolates, steroids, hydrocarbons, etc. Crude extracts and phytoconstituents of B. oleracea var. capitata have various pharmacological effects, including antidiabetic, anticancer, antihypertensive, anticholesterolemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-obesity, anticoagulant, and hepatoprotective. We have enlisted all these pharmacological data along with all the phytochemical constituents of Brassica oleracea var. capitata. Conclusion: The study was focused on the traditional uses, pharmacological activities, and phytochemistry of Brassica oleracea var. capitata, and the findings indicated that B. oleracea var. capitata is an important medicinal plant that shows several pharmacological effects. We hope our review of this plant will provide more basic and useful information and fill some research gaps for further investigation and drug design. Although we found some important traditional uses and pharmacological activities of Brassica oleracea var. capitata, there is insufficient work in the field of phytochemical activities.

Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. (Family: Plantaginaceae) is a well-recognized Ayurvedic herb. It is commonly called “Kutki” or “Kurro” and ‘Indian gentian’. Iridoid glycosides are the plant’s bioactive constituents accountable for the bitter taste and medicinal properties of the plant. The iridoid glycosides such as picrosides and other active metabolites of the plant exhibit many pharmacological activities like hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulator, anti-ulcerative colitis, antimicrobial, etc. This review aims to provide updated information on the ethnobotany, synthetic phytochemistry, pharmacological potential, safety and toxicology of P. kurroa and its active metabolites. Indiscriminate exploitation, ecological destruction of natural habitats, slower plant growth and unawareness regarding cultivation and uprooting of plants have brought kutki an endangered status. Therefore, various techniques used for the conservation and production of bioactive metabolites from P. kurroa have also been reported. Information on the plant has been collected from Science Direct, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus using ‘Picrorhiza kurroa’, ‘Picroside-‘, ‘Picroside-II’, ‘Picroliv’, ‘Immunomodulator’ keywords. All studies on ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of plant from 2010- 2020 were comprised in this review article. The possible directions for future research have also been outlined briefly in this review article.

Rambai (Baccaurea motleyana Müll. Arg.), a member of the Phyllanthaceae family, is one of the underutilized fruits native to Indonesia, Malaya Peninsula, and Thailand. Nowadays, B. motleyana is cultivated for its fruits in many parts of Northern Australia, China, and Southeast Asia. The edible part of the fruit is white and contains reddish arillodes that taste sweet to acid‐sweet. The ripe fruit is consumed fresh and can be processed into juice, jams, organic vinegar, and wine. Traditionally, the fruit and its bark are used to treat stomach and eye diseases, respectively. The fruits of B. motleyana are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fibers, and they also contain bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and terpenes. This scientific review describes the nutritional composition, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of B. motleyana. In addition, most recent information is provided to promote the widespread consumption of B. motleyana fruit as well as to create research interest on this interesting species among the scientific community., Baccaurea motleyana Müll. Arg. fruit is a useful but underutilized fruit that has numerous medicinal properties. Here, a short overview of the plant has been given to uncover its therapeutic potential.

Hilliardiellia aristata is a herbaceous plant species used as traditional medicine in southern Africa. The current investigation is aimed at reviewing the phytochemistry, pharmacological properties and medicinal uses of H. aristata. Results of the current study are based on literature search on pharmacological properties, phytochemistry and medicinal uses of H. aristata using information obtained from several internet sources such as Scopus, Elsevier, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, BMC and Web of Science. Other sources of information included pre-electronic sources such as journal articles, theses, book chapters, books and other scientific publications obtained from the University library. The current study showed that H. aristata is used as a protective charm, traditional medicine for kidney problems, fever, headache, respiratory infections and malaria. Ethnopharmacological research identified glaucolides, lactones, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids and steroids from the aerial parts and leaves of H. aristata. The aerial parts, leaves, roots and whole plant parts of H. aristata exhibited anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiplasmodial, antiprotozoal, larvicidal and cytotoxicity activities. Hilliardiella aristata should be subjected to detailed phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological studies.

Halleria lucida is a shrub or small tree widely used as traditional medicine in southern Africa. This study critically reviewed the medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of H. lucida. Literature on medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of H. lucida was collected from multiple internet sources such as Elsevier, Google Scholar, SciFinder, Web of Science, Pubmed, BMC, Science Direct and Scopus. Complementary information was collected from pre-electronic sources such as books, book chapters, theses, scientific reports and journal articles obtained from the University library. This study revealed that H. lucida is used as an ornamental plant, protective charm, and traditional medicine for blood pressure, earache, evil eye, scabies and skin complaints. Ethnopharmacological research identified cyclohexadienone, cyclohexanone, cyclohexanols, flavonols, flavonoids, glycosides, polyphenols and proanthocyanidins from the leaves and stems of H. lucida. The leaf, root and stem extracts of H. lucida and the compounds luteolin-5-O-β- D-glucoside and verbascoside isolated from the species exhibited antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, phytotoxic and mutagenicity activities. Since H. lucida extracts are widely used as traditional medicines, there is need for extensive phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological evaluations of the extracts and compounds isolated from the species.

Asperugo procumbens is a medicinal plant widely distributed in the world, which is commonly used in the traditional medicine of the Middle East, while currently overlooked in European pharmacopoeias. The aim of the study is to present a comprehensive overview of A. procumbens in botany, traditional medicine, phytochemistry and pharmacology according to the up-to-date data. Scientific literature on the species was collected based on publicly available databases such as: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google, Google Scholar as well as monographs and PhD theses. In traditional medicine the aerial part of A. procumbens is used for treatment of skin infections, herpes, liver and respiratory tract diseases, to strengthen the heart and the nervous system, and others. Contemporary studies on the pharmacological activity of A. procumbens revealed that it exhibits a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antidepressant, sedative-hypnotic, antibacterial, as well as chemopreventive and antihypertensive properties. Despite many proven medicinal properties, the species does not have a developed phytochemical profile and its chemical composition is very poorly understood. The species is known to contain tannins, flavonoids and phenolics. Only the content of fatty acids is recognised in detail. The species is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids – stearidonic acid (SDA), α-linolenic acid (ALA), and omega-6 fatty acid – γ-linolenic acid (GLA). This article, based on the available literature, highlights the traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of A. procumbens, which may provide a foundation for further pharmacological study as well as clinical application of the species. Keywords: Asperugo procumbens, German madwort, Boraginaceae, traditional uses

The antimicrobial, phytochemical contents of extracts obtained from the leaf extract of mature Euphorbia pilulifera (E. pilulifera) were examined in this research work. Using ethyl acetate extracts of the leaves of Euphorbia pilulifera, phytochemical metabolites were studied. Further using chromatography, different components were separated and its antimicrobial activity was studied. Different types of bacterial organisms were used for evaluating the antimicrobial activity. The results indicated that leaf extracts are more sensitive towards organisms. Thus the presence of phytochemicals in the leaf extract can be used for the treatment of different diseases.

The concentrations of cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) in arable lands exceed the maximum permissible levels due to the excessive use of phosphorus fertilizers and fungicides by farmers. The increasing issues related to the application of agrochemicals have lead to the demand for the implementation of sustainable agricultural approaches. Association of arbuscular mycorrhizae with crop plants is an appropriate strategy due to the potential of these microorganisms to augment the metals tolerance of plants through the immobilization of Cd and Zn in an eco-friendly manner. In the present study, 45 d old Zea mays (var. CoHM6) plants inoculated with AM fungi (Claroideoglomus claroideum) were exposed to 1.95 g Zn Kg−1 soil and 0.45 g Cd Kg−1 soil. The major objective of this study was to determine the metabolic alterations in the leaves and roots of mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants exposed to CdCl2 and ZnSO4. Both non AM and AM plants exhibited alterations in the quantity of primary and secondary metabolites on exposure to Zn and Cd toxicity. Moreover, Zn and Cd-induced accumulation of γ-sitosterol reduced the quantity of neophytadiene (a well-known terpenoid) and aided the production of 3-β-acetoxystigmasta-4,6,22-triene in maize leaves. Mycorrhization and heavy metal toxicity induced significant metabolic changes in the roots by producing 4,22-stigmastadiene-3-one, eicosane, 9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-3-ol, pentacosane, oxalic acid, heptadecyl hexyl ester, l-norvaline, and n-(2-methoxyethoxycarbonyl). In addition, the metal-induced variations in leaf and root lignin composition were characterized with the aid of the FTIR technique. Mycorrhization improved the tolerance of maize plants to Cd and Zn toxicity by stabilizing these metal ions in the soil and/or limiting their uptake into the plants, thus ensuring normal metabolic functions of their roots and shoots.

The genus Delphinium is one of the essential members of the family Ranunculaceae. These species grow wild in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have demonstrated antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. Diterpenoid alkaloids are their main constituents and seem to be responsible for medicinal and toxic properties. The primary purpose of this paper is to review the therapeutic benefits of Delphinium species, chemical composition, and its medicinal uses, in addition to the reported toxic effects of these plants influencing different animals and humans.

Background: C. arborea belonging to Araliaceae family is used traditionally to cure many alien diseases including gonorrhoeae infection, diarrhea, malaria, and diabetes mellitus. The plant has been examined on the basis of scientific in vitro and in vivo evaluations possessing the major pharmacological activities including antimicrobial, antibacterial, antihyperglycemic, antiplasmodial and anticancer properties. Aim of the study: In the present paper, we reported the isolation and characterization of secondary metabolites from the methanol extract of the stem bark of Cussonia arborea Hochst after a short review of the traditional and pharmacological studies done on this important medicinal plant. Materials and methods: MeOH extract of stem bark of C. arborea was suspended in water and successively extracted with EtOAc and n-BuOH. The EtOAc extract (18 g) was subjected to repeated column chromatography to yield seven (1-7) compounds. Their structures were determined by means of NMR, and published data. Results: The isolated compounds were identified as: protocatechuic acid (1), mixture of 3,23-dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (2a) and 3,23-dihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid (2b) in ratio 5/4, 3-O-β-D-xylopyranosylolean-12-en-28-oic acid (3), 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosylolean-12-en-28-oic acid (4), β-resorcylic acid (5), mixture of 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-23-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (6a) and 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-23-hydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid (6b) in ration 4/1, 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-3β-hydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (7). Compounds 3, 4, 5, 7, 2b and 6b are herein reported for the first time in this plant

Characteristics of the urban environment are sufficient to alter the degree of cytotoxicity of the extract obtained from the leaves of Eugenia uniflora L. Most people in urban environments obtain medicinal plants through their own cultivation. Eugenia uniflora L. is a native shrub of Brazilian restinga that is common in urban areas. The population commonly uses the leaves to treat various diseases, and the Brazilian National Health Service recommends this species. Thus, research is needed to assess the toxicity of medicinal products derived from this plant grown in urban environments and to determine its reliability for use by the population. Therefore, this study evaluated leaves of E. uniflora grown in an urban environment to identify possible chemical and cytotoxical changes. This study presents an integrated analysis of the environmental conditions, physiology and phytochemistry of E. uniflora, in addition to experiments that evaluate the toxic potential of its extract. Chemical analysis of soil and leaves revealed great variation in the plant’s capacity to accumulate chemical elements. Among the chemical elements analysed, lead stands out as it was detected at the concentration limit allowed by World Health Organization in leaves from an urban site. Results of the cytotoxicity analysis revealed significant differences regarding the viability of VERO cells submitted to extract. We suggest that environmental and soil characteristics of the urban site are responsible, at least in part, for the cytotoxic characteristic of E. uniflora leaf extract.

Tetraterpenoids comprise of a large family of C 40 polyene, obtained from plants, fungi and bacteria. Their colouring properties have been employed to use as a natural colorant in the pharmaceutical industries. These exist as an attractive target of research because of their easy availability and plentiful health benefits in cardiovascular diseases, cancer, age related degenerative diseases, macular degeneration, antiatherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory properties and in HIV infection, probably due to their antioxidant properties. Formulating carotenoids in a particular dosage form is a big challenge as they possess some limitations like chemical unstability, poor bioavailability, less solubility and quick release. Due to this, numerous nanoencapsulation techniques have been developed till now to maintain their original properties. This review will highlight the phytochemical and pharmacological update on tetraterpenoids and their formulations.

Background: Colocasia esculenta Schott (called as Xiangshayu in Chinese) is an excellent local cultivar of the genus polymorpha in Jiangsu Province, China. Objective: In the present study, we have performed a comparative study before and after dietary consumption with Colocasia esculenta Schott to evaluate its anti-cancerous properties. Design: Forty-two healthy volunteers were recruited, and dietary consumption with 200 g of tap water cooked Colocasia esculenta Schott daily was conducted for 1 month. Plasma samples from the subjects before and after dietary consumption with Colocasia esculenta Schott were analyzed with proximity extension assays for the alteration of 92 proteins in relation with cancers, while blood samples were examined for physiological parameters with an automatic biochemical analyzer. Bioinformatic analyses were conducted using MalaCards and GEPIA. Results: After taking dietary consumption with Colocasia esculenta Schott, circulating CYR61, ANXA1, and VIM protein levels in the subjects was found to be most significantly downregulated, while for ITGB5, EPHA2, and CEACAM1, it was upregulated. Alternation of these proteins was predicted to be associated with the development of tumors such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma and breast and prostate cancers. Conclusion: The present study provides evidence that Colocasia esculenta Schott, as a healthy food, has anti-cancerous properties. Further investigation of phytochemistry in Colocasia esculenta Schott has been taken into our consideration.

Bixa Orellana, commonly known as lipstick tree, is a small perennial tree with reddish triangular fruits. It is commonly utilised as a natural dye, which found a wide range of applications in both foods and textile industries. It is also used in traditional medicinal practices to treating various health ailments. This review aims to summarise the ethnobotanical, phytochemistry as well as the pharmacological potential of Bixa Orellana. It has been used for fever, skin problems, intestinal problems, and hepatoprotection by the various tribal communities worldwide. It is also employed as an antidote to bites and as an insect repellant. The phytochemical review demonstrated numerous bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids, etc. The pharmacological investigations evidenced that the plant has excellent antimicrobial, antipyretic, antidiabetic, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In addition, Bixa Orellana can be used as a photosensitiser in antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation therapy to eliminate micro-organisms. So, the pieces of evidence highlighted in this review will be helpful insights for further scientific studies for the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents.

Background Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (W. somnifera) is a herb commonly known by its English name as Winter Cherry. Africa is indigenous to many medicinal plants and natural products. However, there is inadequate documentation of medicinal plants, including W. somnifera, in Africa. There is, therefore, a need for a comprehensive compilation of research outcomes of this reviewed plant as used in traditional medicine in different regions of Africa. Methodology Scientific articles and publications were scooped and sourced from high-impact factor journals and filtered with relevant keywords on W. somnifera. Scientific databases, including GBIF, PubMed, NCBI, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Science Direct, SciFinder, and Web of Science, were accessed to identify the most influential articles and recent breakthroughs published on the contexts of ethnography, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and commercialization of W. somnifera. Results This critical review covers the W. somnifera ethnography, phytochemistry, and ethnomedicinal usage to demonstrate the use of the plant in Africa and elsewhere to prevent or alleviate several pathophysiological conditions, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, reproductive impotence, as well as other chronic diseases. Conclusion W. somnifera is reportedly safe for administration in ethnomedicine as several research outcomes confirmed its safety status. The significance of commercializing this plant in Africa for drug development is herein thoroughly covered to provide the much-needed highlights towards its cultivations economic benefit to Africa.