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The biosynthesis of nanoparticles stands as an uncomplicated, biocompatible, inexpensive, and secure approach for replacing the available chemical and physical methods. In this paper, Selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) and silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were biosynthesized using Nepeta and Berberine plant extracts, respectively. UV–Vis, FT-IR, and FESEM/EDAX techniques were applied for confirming the synthesis of nanoparticles. In addition, the method of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was utilized to perform a sensitivity test on fungal species' leachates through the usage of Duplicate. The application biosynthesized Se-NPs and Ag-NPs at concentrations of 1 µg/mL and below caused no growth of fungal agents. However, antifungal drugs at concentrations higher than 1 µg/mL and even up to 64 µg/mL inhibited the growth of these drug-resistant fungi. A comparison of the results showed that even these nanoparticles in some cases have a better effect than the group of antifungal drugs. Therefore, the usage of biosynthesized nanoparticles is considered to be more convenient and economical due to the increasing drug resistance of opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms towards the exerted target drugs.

The new benzofuran lignans nepetamultin A (1) and B (2) were isolated from flowers of Nepeta multifida L. [Schizonepeta multifida (L.) Briq.; Lamiaceae]. UV and NMR spectroscopic and mass spectrometric data indicated 1 was the 9′9′′′-di-O-methyl ester of schizotenuin A; 2, the 9′-O-methyl ester of schizotenuin C1. Biological studies revealed that 1 and 2 possessed antioxidant and antihyaluronidase activity.

This study aimed to investigate the encapsulation of the Nepeta binaludensis extract and its release kinetics under laboratory conditions. The Nepeta extract (extracted using a pulse electric field process, 6000 v and pulse number 60) was encapsulated with maltodextrin (with dextrose equivalent of 7 (MD7) and 20 (MD20)) and Arabic gum (AG) with a mass ratio of 1:5 (extract/wall material, w/w). Response Surface Methodology (RSM) has been used to optimize the microencapsulation efficiency and the physicochemical properties of encapsulated powders, considering the type of wall content. To investigate the release kinetics under laboratory conditions, the microcapsules stored for 35 days at a relative humidity of 55 and 75% at 4 and 25 °C and every 7 days were measured the amount of microencapsulated phenolic compounds. The results showed that the combination of MD7 (16.67), AG (16.67), and MD20 (66.67) had higher efficiency in the production of microcapsules, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant power and glass transition temperature compared to other cases. These microcapsules were thin, uniform, non-porous, and indented in shape. The monitoring of release kinetics during storage showed that the loss of phenolic compounds was significantly affected by the type of wall composition, such that the wall with formula MD7 (16.67), AG (16.67), and MD20 (66.67), had a higher inhibitory effect on reducing total phenolic compounds compared to other walls.

Nepeta cataria L., commonly known as catmint or catnip, belongs to the family “Lamiaceae” and is indigenous to Europe and Asia. The essential oil of this species is known for the richness and diversity of nepetalactones (NPL) which are used as mosquito/insect repellents in perfumery and cosmetic industries. Reports on Indian catmint germplasm are very meager and warrants exploration of its commercial potential as a natural, non-toxic source of insect repellents. With this objective, commercial open-pollinated seeds of catmint collected from its native, temperate habitat in Himalayas were introduced in the tropical plains. Subsequent to adaptation to a new zone we were able to isolate nineteen individual plants based on plant growth. Hydrodistillation of the fresh herb yielded essential oil in the range of 0.01% to 0.2%. Gas Chromatography (GC) and GC-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses of the oil revealed the dominance of monoterpene hydrocarbon, namely, 4aα,7α,7aα NPL (1) isomer (84%). The other two isomers of nepetalactone, 4aα,7α,7aβ NPL (2) and 4aα,7β,7aα NPL (3) were also present, although in very less amounts (1.0% and 1.6%, respectively). Sesquiterpenes identified were α-humulene (traces), (E)-caryophyllene (0.6%) and caryophyllene oxide (1.7%). We compared the identified Indian catmint chemotype with the other oils from temperate, sub-tropical and tropical locations based on literature search. The Indian chemotype was found to be similar to the oils from Burundi, France, Turkey, UK and USA, mainly due to more accumulation of 4aα,7α,7aα NPL (1) isomer. These oils grouped together in Principal Component Analysis. Breeding lines are presently being developed to improve yield related traits in this plant. Multidisciplinary R&D efforts along with setting up industry related guidelines are required to successfully commercialize catmint cultivation. Several species of Nepeta genus have high nepetalactone content too and their potential as a commercial source of these isomers still needs to be explored.

Перспективными источниками биологически активных веществ (БАВ), обладающих нейротропной активностью, являются представители рода Nepeta L. - котовник кошачий (Nepeta cataria L.) и котовник крупноцветковый (Nepeta grandiflora Bieb.). Цель - изучение в эксперименте in vivo и in vitro фармакологической активности экстрактов и фракций БАВ котовника кошачьего и котовника крупноцветкового. Методика. Для сравнительной оценки нейротропной активности экстрактов котовников кошачьего (Nepeta cataria L.) и крупноцветкового (Nepeta grandiflora Bieb.) проведен биологический скрининг образцов, обладающих дофаминергической активностью с применением тирозингидроксилазной специфической ферментной биотест-системы в условиях in vitro. Определение параметров острой токсичности и противовоспалительной активности экстракта проводили в экспериментах in vivo. Для оценки острой токсичности экстракта по методу Кербера использованы белые нелинейные мыши-самцы. Экстракты вводили животным внутрижелудочно в дозах 500, 1000, 1500 и 2000 мг/кг. Изучали влияние курсового (3-4 сут) введения выбранных по результатам скрининга экстрактов (дозы 10 и 100 мг/кг) на центральную нервную систему и поведение животных на моделях «приподнятый крестообразный лабиринт» и «хлоралгидратный сон». Препаратом сравнения служил экстракт пустырника (100 мг/кг). Результаты. В результате проведенных скрининговых исследований в условиях опытов in vitro с применением специфической ферментной биотест-системы на основе тирозингидроксилазы выявлена дофаминергическая активность у котовника крупноцветкового экстракта сухого и котовника кошачьего экстракта сухого. При однократном введении экстракты не приводили к гибели животных, изменению внешнего вида и поведенческих реакций мышей. В соответствии с классификацией токсичности химических веществ по ГОСТ 12.1.007-76 экстракты является малотоксичными веществами. В дозах 10 и 100 мг/кг экстракты оказывали статистически значимое седативное действие, снижали нервно-эмоциональное напряжение. Седативное действие проявлялось в ускорении процесса засыпания и увеличении продолжительности сна. Заключение. Выявлена дофаминергическая активность экстрактов котовника крупноцветкового экстракта сухого и котовника кошачьего экстракта сухого. Экстракты котовника кошачьего и котовника крупноцветкового являются малотоксичными веществами, обладают в опытах in vivo выраженным седативным действием, снижают нервно-эмоциональное напряжение. Экстракты котовника кошачьего и котовника крупноцветкового перспективны для дальнейшего изучения. Promising sources of biologically active substances (BAS) with neurotropic activity are representatives of the genus Nepeta L. - cat’s cat (Nepeta cataria L.) and large-flowered cat’s cat (Nepeta grandiflora Bieb.). The aim of the work is to study the pharmacological activity of extracts and fractions of BAS Catnip and large-flowered Catnip with the use of specific enzyme Biotest systems in in vitro experiments and using biological models on laboratory animals. Method. For a comparative assessment of the neurotropic activity of cat extracts (Nepeta cataria L.) and large-flowered (Nepeta grandiflora Bieb.) biological screening of samples with dopaminergic activity was performed using a tyrosine hydroxylase-specific enzyme Biotest system in in vitro experiments. The parameters of acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of the extract were determined. When studying the acute toxicity of the extract using the Kerber method, white non-linear male mice in the number of 30 individuals were used. Extracts were administered to animals intragastrically in doses of 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 mg/kg. We studied the effect of course (3-4 days) administration of selected extracts based on the results of screening on the Central nervous system and animal behavior at doses of 10 and 100 mg / kg on the models «raised cruciform labyrinth» and «chloral hydrate sleep». Comparison drug-motherwort extract tablets at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Results. As a result of screening studies in in vitro experiments based on tyrosine hydroxylase, dopaminergic activity was detected in the cat’s large-flowered dry extract and cat’s dry cat extract. When administered once, the extracts did not lead to the death of animals, changes in the appearance and behavioral reactions of mice were not observed. According to the chemical toxicity classification according to GOST 12.1.007-76, extracts are low-toxic substances. In doses of 10 mg / kg and 100 mg / kg, these extracts have a significantly pronounced sedative effect, reduce nervous and emotional tension. The sedative effect is shown in improving sleep and increasing the duration of sleep. Conclusions. Dopaminergic activity was detected in the cat’s large-flowered dry extract and the cat’s dry cat extract. Extracts of Catnip and large-flowered Catnip are low-toxic substances, have a pronounced sedative effect in experiments in vivo, reduce nervous and emotional tension. Extracts of Catnip and large-flowered Catnip are promising for further study.

Nepeta curvidens is a plant of the mint family and an important species of the genus Nepeta. The main habitat of the N. curvidens in the Garin Mountains in Lorestan Province, Iran. Although locals have used N. curvidens as a food flavoring agent for years, few studies have been conducted on its phytochemical and biological properties. The chemical constituents of N. curvidens essential oil and then its biological properties were studied in detail in this investigation. N. curvidens essential oil was prepared from the aerial parts of the plant using the hydrodistillation method and its chemical composition was analyzed by the GC-MS method. Antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-Leishmania, and cytotoxic activities of the essential oil were investigated in vitro. In addition, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated in vivo. Most of N. curvidens essential oil compositions are composed of trans-caryophyllene (17.53%), allo-spathulenol (13.41%), germacrene D (10.12%), bicyclogermacrene (9.36%), α-pinene (9.12%), and β-phellandrene (6.87%). The highest antimicrobial and antifungal effects were observed against L. monocytogenes (MIC=156.25 μg/ml) and K. marxianus (MIC=625 µg/ml), respectively. Concentration-dependent effects were detected in the treatment of L. major, so that the number of macrophages infected with amastigote dropped significantly with higher concentrations. The essential oil showed the highest effect on the lung cancer cell line (A549) with the lowest IC50 (133.2μg/mL). The most resistant cell line to the essential oil was bladder cancer (C450) with an IC50 of 430.69 µg/mL. SI 19.49 index indicated high immunity of the essential oil on macrophage lines. Compared with morphine analgesic, the highest pain control effect of the essential oil was observed in primary and secondary phases at 100 mg/kg concentration in rats. At 100 mg/kg concentration, reduced swelling of the paw and ear was observed in mice compared to the dexamethasone anti-inflammatory drug. The essential oil presents remarkable therapeutic properties such as antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties that probably attributed to the presence of an important trans-caryophyllene compound. Outstandingly, the essential oil has low toxic effects on the normal line and high antitumor properties against cancer cells. Therefore, it is expected to be used in the preparation of less toxic drugs than chemical ones, although more studies are required.

Nepeta tenuifolia (N. tenuifolia) is a common aromatic herb that is widespread in East Asia. The aerial parts and spikes can be used as the traditional phytomedicines for the treatment of cold, fever, respiratory diseases, and skin diseases in the clinic and as a vegetable in salads or cooked foods. These applications have lasted for thousands of years due to their outstanding performance. In this review, with the help of PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, and CNKI, we have summarized the research achievements made in recent years on the various aspects of N. tenuifolia, covering botany, traditional uses, processing, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmaceutics. A total of 102 phytochemicals have been found and identified in N. tenuifolia, which were grouped into terpenoids, flavonoids, organic acids and other components, including many bioactive compounds such as pulegone, hesperidin, and rosmarinic acid. This plant has also exhibited antiviral, immunoregulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and miscellaneous bioactivities, including antitumour, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and antithrombus activities. The progress to date has provided basic and strong evidence to support the traditional uses of this herbal medicine. However, the present explanations seem insufficient and unsatisfactory, in term of the relationships between the traditional uses and the modern pharmacological actions, the action mechanisms and the material basis. Therefore, in the future, some comprehensive studies should be well designed for further understanding the development and utilization of N. tenuifolia.

The common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L., resurged as an important urban pest in the last 20 yr. Yet, there are no commercial repellent products labeled for bed bugs available in the United States. We evaluated the repellency of two catnip oils from newly developed cultivars, CR3 and CR9, and compared each to 10 and 25% N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET). CR3 contains 63.4% E,Z-nepatalactone and 27.5% Z,E-nepatalactone, and CR9 contains 94.9% Z,E-nepatalactone. Arena studies showed that CR3 and CR9 oils were more effective than DEET within a 24-h period. At 10% concentration, both CR3 and CR9 oils exhibited a repellency of over 94% during the first 8 h. At 25% concentration, the repellency of CR3 and CR9 oils increased to 100%, and repellency of DEET was 92% during the first 24 h. Repellency of 25% CR3 and CR9 oils became lower than 25% DEET after being aged for 3 d. After 28-d aging, repellency of 25% CR3, CR9, and DEET reduced to 25, 64, and 92%, respectively. Soiled socks were placed above repellent treated bands to determine if the repellent can protect soiled socks from being infested. The 20% CR3 oil prevented 100% of bed bugs from infesting soiled socks showing that it was more effective than DEET. These results indicate that catnip oils from CR3 and CR9 cultivars are more repellent than DEET over a 24-h period following application, but their longevity is shorter than DEET after 72 h.

Phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Nepeta nuda subsp. albiflora Boiss. were reported in this study. The ethanol and water extracts of Nepeta nuda subsp. albiflora were prepared and used for biochemical analyses. Antioxidant capacities of the extracts were evaluated by three different in vitro bioanalytical methods including a reducing antioxidant method and two radical scavenging antioxidant methods. The water and ethanol extracts of the plant sample were found to have effective antioxidant potentials. Phenolic content of Nepeta nuda subsp. albiflora was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Rosmarinic acid (182.0±4.5 µg/g), apigenin (84.5±57.6 µg/g), and quercetin (44.5±62.9 µg/g) were identified as major compounds in the ethanol extract of the plant sample. This study has a potential scientific base for further studies about Nepeta nuda subsp. albiflora related to plant biochemistry and plant based pharmacological industry.

The objective of this study was to authenticate the ethnobotanical claims of theNepeta ruderalisBuch.-Ham. (N. ruderalis) extract in the traditional system of medicine. Crude extract was prepared via a simple maceration process. DPPH free radical scavenging and carrageenan-induced rat paw edema models were used to monitor antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses of theN. ruderalisextract. Furthermore, it was tested for antiplatelet aggregation, cardioprotective, and calcium channel antagonistic activities via standard documented protocols. TheN. ruderalisextract exhibited 80.82% antioxidant activity (IC50=207.51±4.36 μg) while the anti-inflammatory response was significant (p<0.05top<0.01) at 50 mg/kg (45.58%) and 100 mg/kg (60.90%) doses. Moreover, it was found to inhibit platelet aggregation (IC50=1.06and 0.91 mg/mL) and, in addition, to increase the force of contraction at the concentration of 3.0-10 mg/mL with a decrease in the heart rate on isolated paired atria (EC50=11.78 mg/mL). Relaxant activity was observed on the isolated rabbit jejunum (EC50=0.96 mg/mL) and trachea (EC50=0.89 mg/mL). However, in a cumulative way, an 80-millimolar potassium-induced contraction was evaluated (EC50=1.31 mg/mL). TheN. ruderalisextract exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, platelet aggregating, cardiotonic, and calcium channel antagonistic activities, therefore proving scientifically its effectiveness in the traditional system of medicine.

Among natural remedies, aromatic and medicinal plants constitute an essential source that deserves scientific attention. Thus, our study aims to promote the virtues of two aromatic and medicinal plants found in the wild in the region of Ouazzane (Morocco). The phytochemical tests of these species have shown the presence of flavonoids, gallic and catechic tannins, cyanidin, sterols and triterpenes. However, alkaloids, carotenoids, saponosides and reducing compounds were not detected. Then, extraction of total polyphenols from Origanum compactum and Satureja calamintha nepeta was conducted for 48 hours by maceration with a mixture of methanol/water (80/20) used as a solvent. Extractions yielded 35.2% crude extracts for Origanum compactum and 34.4% for Satureja calamintha nepeta. The fractionation of these crude methanol extracts was performed with three organic solvents of increasing polarity (chloroform, ethyl acetate then, n-butanol). Total phenol content of the extracts and fractions was assessed by the method of Folin-Ciocalteu. This revealed that the phenol-rich fractions were the crude extract for Origanum compactum and the butanol fraction for Satureja calamintha nepeta. Finally, the evaluation of the antioxidant power which was carried out using the method of trapping the free radical DPPH• and the reduction of iron by the method of FRAP. The DPPH• test showed a high antioxidant activity of the samples: 53.1 µg/ml of crude extract of Origanum compactum was needed to reduce 50% of DPPH•. The same IC50 was obtained for ascorbic acid (standard antioxidant). For Satureja calamintha nepeta, the IC50 was 67.5 µg/ml. On the other hand, the FRAP test revealed that the methanolic extract of origanum compactum has higher reducing power than that of n-buthanolic extract of satureja calamintha nepeta. Still, it remains relatively low compared to ascorbic acid. The high antioxidant activity of these two species could justify their use in traditional medicine for the treatment of many diseases.

Aims Niosomes have been considered as carriers for targeted delivery of drugs in modern drug delivery systems. The Iranian Nepta (Nepta genus) has unique biological properties; thus, this plant was used in this study to prepare the optimized formulation of niosomes containing extract, and to evaluate its cytotoxicity. Methods & Materials Initially, the extract of Iranian Nepta (N. persica) was prepared. Then, the nano-niosomal system, containing the extract was designed and synthesized using cholesterol and Span-60. The physicochemical properties of the system were evaluated by FTIR and SEM. MTT assay [3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] was used to determine the toxicity of the Nepta extract and nano-system containing it against bone cancer cells (MG63). Findings An optimized formulation was obtained using cholesterol and Span-60 with a ratio of 80:20. The amount of extract release from this formulation continued with a steady slope over a long period of time. The survival rate of MG63 cells against 100 μg/mL of the free form of N. persica extract and its niosomal form were 22% and 8.88%, respectively. Conclusion The present research results suggested that N. persica extract exert anti-cancer effects and niosome could improve its anti-cancer efficiency. Therefore, it could be used as a proper carrier to deliver the extract to the target tissue.

The issue of male sexual dysfunction arises due to numerous complications linked with sperm motility, imbalance of antioxidant enzymes and hormonal levels. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is widely used as a standard toxin to induce chemical injury and toxicity. A lot of research has been performed on many species of the genus Nepeta in vitro and in vivo but the plant Nepeta paulsenii have been rarely used in this aspect. The current research was designed to explore the impacts of methanolic extract of the Nepeta paulsenii plant on CCl4 induced testicular impairment in male albino rats. Forty-eight rats were distributed equally into 8 groups; Control, Vehicle control, CCl4 treated (1 ml/kg), CCl4 + Silymarine treated, CCl4 + Nepeta paulsenii (200 mg/kg) treated, CCl4 + Nepeta paulsenii (400 mg/kg), Nepeta paulsenii (200 mg/kg) and Nepeta paulsenii (400 mg/kg) treated. Blood and testicles were obtained and analyzed. To check antioxidant enzymes, hormonal concentrations, daily sperm production (DSP), protein content and histopathology various analyses were performed. CCl4 exposure resulted in adverse morphological changes and significant (p

Phenolic extracts of Clinopodium nepeta were prepared and their preliminary phenolic profiles determined using HPLC-DAD with 26 phenolic standards. Apigenin (21.75 ± 0.41 µg/g), myricetin (72.58 ± 0.57 µg/g), and rosmarinic acid (88.51 ± 0.55 µg/g) were the most abundant compounds in DCM (dichloromethane), AcOEt (ethyl acetate), and BuOH (butanol) extracts, respectively. The DCM and AcOEt extracts inhibited quorum-sensing mediated violacein production by C. violaceum CV12472. Anti-quorum-sensing zones on C. violaceum CV026 at MIC (minimal inhibitory concentration) were 10.3 ± 0.8 mm for DCM extract and 12.0 ± 0.5 mm for AcOEt extract. Extracts showed concentration-dependent inhibition of swarming motility on flagellated P. aeruginosa PA01 and at the highest test concentration of 100 μg/mL, AcOEt (35.42 ± 1.00%) extract displayed the best activity. FRAP assay indicated that the BuOH extract (A0.50 = 17.42 ± 0.25 µg/mL) was more active than standard α-tocopherol (A0.50 = 34.93 ± 2.38 µg/mL). BuOH extract was more active than other extracts except in the ABTS●+, where the DCM extract was most active. This antioxidant activity could be attributed to the phenolic compounds detected. C. nepeta extracts showed moderate inhibition on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), tyrosinase, and α-amylase. The results indicate that C. nepeta is a potent source of natural antioxidants that could be used in managing microbial resistance and Alzheimer′s disease.

Nepeta bracteata Benth. is used clinically to treat tracheal inflammation, coughs, asthma, colds, fevers, adverse urination, and other symptoms, along with functions in clearing heat and removing dampness. However, there have been few studies characterizing the material basis of its efficacy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to screen for compounds with anti-inflammatory activities in N. bracteata Benth. Using silica gel, ODS C18, and Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography, as well as semipreparative HPLC, 10 compounds were separated from&nbsp, N. bracteata Benth. extract, including four new diterpenoids (1–4), one amide alkaloid (5), and five known diterpenoids (6–10). The structures of all the isolates were elucidated by HR-ESI-MS, NMR, and CD analyses. Using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW&nbsp, 264.7 cells, we investigated the anti-inflammatory&nbsp, activities of compounds 1–10. It is worth noting that all were able to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production with IC50 values &lt, 50 μM and little effect on RAW 264.7 macrophage viability. Compounds 2 and 4 displayed remarkable inhibition with IC50 values of 19.2 and 18.8 μM, respectively. Meanwhile, screening on HCT-8 cells demonstrated that compounds 2 and 4 also had moderate cytotoxic activities with IC50 values of 36.3 and 41.4 μM, respectively, which is related to their anti-inflammatory effects.

Ultrasonication technology was utilized for extraction of effective components from Nepeta (Nepeta binaludensis Jamzad). Response surface methodology was employed in order for investigation the effects of independent process variables (ultrasonic extraction time (UET, min): 5, 10 and 15 min, ultrasound amplitude (UA, %): 20, 60 and 100%, ultrasonic extraction temperature (UEC, °C): 25, 35 and 45 °C and ultrasonic duty cycle (UDC, %): 20, 60 and 100%) on the yield (Y), total phenolic compounds (TPC), half maximal of radical (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl, DPPH) scavenging activity (IC50) and ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP) of ethanolic Nepeta extract. According to Derringer’s desired function approach, the optimal conditions based on both individual and combinations of all process variables were UET 15 min, UA 60%, UEC 25 °C and UDC 60%. At this optimum condition, the Y, TPC, IC50 and FRAP of the ultrasound-assisted extract (USx) were found to 10.93%, 402.63 mg GA/kg, 0.33 mg/mL and 2838.34 µmol Fe2+/kg, respectively which were well matched with the predicted values. The evaluation of antioxidant activity (IC50 and FRAP) indicates that the phenolic compounds from Nepeta possess significant antioxidant activity. Also, HPLC analysis revealed that at optimal condition of UAE, the quantity of caffeic acid (85.71%), rutin (3550%) and rosemarinic acid (468.62%) in extract increased in comparison with conventional method (solvent extraction).

In infectiology, some essential oils (EOs) are able to competewith antibiotic therapy and even surpass it; it is in this context that a study of the chemical composition and the antibacterial power of the EOs of three aromatic and widely used medicinal plants in traditional medicine was conducted which are Satureja calamintha subsp. nepeta (L.) Briq, Lavandula multifida L., and Mentha pulegium L. The extracted EO yields were of the order of 2.6%, 0.12%, and 5.29% for Satureja calamintha, Lavandula multifida, and Mentha pulegium, respectively. The obtained EOs were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The results of these analyses showed that Lavandula multifida contains carvacrol as a majority compound (70.65%); by contrast, the pulegone is the majority compound of Satureja calamintha and Mentha pulegium that contain about 87.04% and 71.97%, respectively. The EOs with the pulegone as predominant compound (Mentha pulegium and Satureja calamintha) showed higher antibacterial activity when tested against some multiresistant strains, compared to those with the carvacrol as major compound. In conclusion, this study may open up prospects for the formulation of phytomedicines against resistant and nonresistant bacteria incriminated in nosocomial infections.

Nepeta cataria var. citriodora Beck. (catmints) is a source industrial production of citral and attractive raw material for food industry and cooking. Aerial part of Nepeta are characterized by high antimicrobial activity and fungicidal action against mold fungi, used in folk medicine, as ingredient in recipes for sausages, liqueurs and soft drinks, vegetable and fruit canned food, in the manufacture of vermouth. Ukrainian variety 'Melody' was created specifically for growing in the Forest-Steppe zone, and variety 'Peremozhets' - in the Steppe zone. Data on the yield aerial part and essential oil Nepeta was determined. The dry aerial part of plants N. cataria we used to create a dry spicy mixture for sweet dessert dishes. Quantitative content and qualitative composition of essential oil of plants by organs and phases of vegetation are presented in the article. In our research we used essential oils obtained by hydro distillation procedure for 2 h using Clevendger-type apparatus from the flowering parts of plants N. cataria 'Peremozhets' and 'Melody'. Investigate of components was carried out by high effective gas chromatography with HP 6890 chromatograph coupled with HP 5972 mass selective detector. The most abundant components of Nepeta essential oil was citral, geraniol, as well as nerol, citronellol, citronellal, carvacrol, camphor, eugenol. We proposed fractional distillation of essential oils to obtain a line of flavors with stable sensory and physicochemical indicators for food industry. The separation of essential oils into fractions was carried out on a pilot installation of fractional distillation DFD (Device of Fractional Distillation). Calculations of parameters controlled dispersal of essential oils (residual pressure, temperature regimes, number of theoretical plates, reflux number) were carried out. During fractionation of essential oil of N. cataria four fractions were obtained with a content of 96 ±0.5% to the total mass of samples. Sensory and physicochemical analysis of aromatic fractions announced them as promising flavours for food industry.

Background: As an important plant belonging to the Nepeta genus, Nepeta racemosa has been reported to be widely used in traditional medicine. The present study was conducted to investigate the phytochemical content and antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of the decoction, infusion and hydro-alcoholic extract of this plant. Materials and Methods: The total phenolic content of the samples was determined using a slightly- modified Folin–Ciocalteu method. The DPPH free radical scavenging method was used to evaluate the antioxidant activities, and the Vanillin-Sulphuric Acid Method for the saponin content of the extract. Moreover, their inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase were investigated based on standard methods. Results: The phenolic content of the plant decoction was found to be 222.8 mg of gallic acid equivalent per gram of dried extract and its flavonoid content 87.8 mg of quercetin equivalent per gram of dried extract. The highest saponin content obtained was associated with the hydro-alcoholic extract of the plant with 41.9 mg of quillaja equivalent per gram of dried extract. The plant decoction also showed the highest potential compared to the other samples in terms of antioxidant properties investigated using the DPPH and FRAP methods. Furthermore, the plant decoction showed great potential in terms of its inhibitory effects on α-amylase with 9.45 µmol of acarbose equivalent per gram of dried extract, and α-glucosidase with 33.57 µmol of acarbose equivalent per gram of dried extract. Conclusion: According to the results, Nepeta racemosa was found to exhibit high levels of antioxidant and antidiabetic abilities, which are directly proportional to its phenolic and flavonoid contents.

Abies and Nepeta species are well known for their traditional use in traditional medicine from Bukovina, Romania, and other parts from the world. However, too few studies present the connection between phenophase, chlorophyll content and antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from medicinal plants. Phenophases, like stages from vital cycle of plants, involve seasonal and evolutionary changes, including chlorophyll content of the leaves. With these changes, there are also changes in the oxidative activity of the extracts obtained from the studied plants. The chlorophyll was extracted with acetone, being quantitatively measured using the spectrophotometer. Antioxidant activity was determined by the DPPH method. This method is one from the most popular ways to measure the antioxidant capacity of a substance. The studied species are Abies alba and Nepeta pannonica. Plants were harvested from different locations of Bukovina, from areas of Câmpulung Moldovenesc and Cacica localities, Suceava county, Romania. Chosen phenophases were growing and flowering. The DPPH method implies making some extracts with organic solvents from collected plants, in this case being acetone. Using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil reactive, there was determined the antioxidant capacity of mentioned extracts. There were observed variations of this depending of phenophase and collecting areas, being closely related to total chlorophyll content. The both species have behaved differently and obtained results can be used to determine the optimal harvest moments of these plants.

Active ingredient of the commercial herbicide BASTA (B), phosphinothricin, acts as an inhibitor of glutamine synthetase (GS), a key enzyme in ammonium assimilation. The treatment with BASTA leads to an elevation of ammonium levels in plants and further to various physiological alterations, ammonium toxicity and lethality. Results of the present study emphasize the complexity underlying control mechanisms that determine BASTA interaction with essential oil (EO) from Nepeta rtanjensis (NrEO), bioherbicide inducing oxidative stress in target plants. Simultaneous application of NrEO and BASTA, two agents showing differential mode of action, suspends BASTA-induced ammonium toxicity in Arabidopsis thaliana plants. This is achieved through maintaining GS activity, which sustains a sub-toxic and/or sub-lethal ammonium concentration in tissues. As revealed by the present study, regulation of GS activity, as influenced by BASTA and NrEO, occurs at transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and/or posttranslational levels. Two genes encoding cytosolic GS, GLN1;1 and GLN1;3, are highlighted as the main isozymes in Arabidopsis shoots contributing to NrEO-induced overcoming of BASTA-generated ammonium toxicity. The effects of NrEO might be ascribed to its major component nepetalactone, but the contribution of minor EO components should not be neglected. Although of fundamental significance, the results of the present study suggest possible low efficiency of BASTA in plantations of medicinal/aromatic plants such as Nepeta species. Furthermore, these results highlight the possibility of using NrEO as a bioherbicide in BASTA-treated crop fields to mitigate the effect of BASTA residues in contaminated soils.

The ecophysiological behaviours (translocation and accumulation) of Fe and Mn in three aromatic species spontaneously growing in soils from the abandoned mine in Rosalgar (Setubal District, SW Portugal) were analysed in order to assess their potential impact on human health. Three different Lamiaceae species (Origanum vulgare subsp. virens, Calamintha nepeta subsp. glandulosa and Lavandula stoechas subsp. luisieri) were selected to determine their chemical compositions. The rhizosphere soil characteristics were also studied. Soils had a slightly acid pH, ranging from 5.6 to 6.4, and a low-medium fertility. The mean total contents of Mn and Fe in these soils were 13,605 mg/kg and 81,870 mg/kg, respectively. These values are higher than the average concentrations in non-contaminated soils in the region (737 mg Mn/kg and 36833 mg Fe/kg). The Mn concentration in the available fraction of these soils was also very high (467–1000 mg/kg). The Fe concentration in the soil available fraction was 69–124 mg/kg. Each species had a different accumulation pattern, as lavender is the only one that translocates Mn to the aerial part, where the concentration reaches a mean value of 890 mg/kg. This concentration is much higher than that observed in the other two species and is higher than the normal range for plants (10–500 mg Mn/kg). Two parameters were used to evaluate the risk posed to human health due to the consumption of O. vulgare and C. nepeta: the estimated daily intake (EDI) and the target hazard quotient (THQ). The EDIs of the studied elements in these two species, which are used for culinary purposes by the inhabitants of the region, were lower than the provisional tolerable daily intake value. Thus, their consumption for alimentary purposes is safe. On the other hand, the THQ values show that inhabitants who consume oregano and calamint may be exposed to health risks as the individual THQ for Mn was higher than unity.

The oxidative stability and oxidation kinetics of pure soybean oil (PSO) supplemented with 0.5–6% of pulse electric field ethanolic extract (PEFx) of Nepeta (Nepata binaludensis Jamzad) or 100 ppm of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were evaluated at 100–120 °C. The oxidative stability of PSO decreased with increasing temperature and improved significantly (p

Chlorophylls from plants are photosynthetic pigments. Their quantity offers valuable informations about photosynthetic activity, growing and developing of plants. Photosynthetic pigments decrease quantitatively during senescence process or in stress conditions. The present study has been realized in laboratory conditions with material harvested from spontaneous flora. The purpose of this research was the investigation of variations of chlorophyll content from samples of biological material collected from Nepeta pannonica L. and Abies alba Mill. plants, from Câmpulung Moldovenesc and Cacica areas, Suceava county, Romania. The targeted phenophases were growth and flowering. There were realized acetonic extracts from samples for spectrophotometric determinations. Obtained data were processed to estabilish chlorophyll a and b content. There were observed that at Abies alba species, from both locations, the chlorophyll a content grew during flowering phenophase, while the chlorophyll b content had little variations. At Nepeta pannonica species, the chlorophyll a and b content decreased visibly during the flowering, due to stress. Leaves of plants from this species presented a intense green color in the growing phenophase, while during flowering phenophase they had a purple or yellow coloration. Obtained results revealed a different dynamics of chlorophyll content at studied species.

Amini S, Nohooji MG, Khani M, Labbafi MR, Khalighi-Sigaroodi f. 2019. Biological activity of some essential oil constituents in four Nepeta L. species against Sitophilus oryzae L.. Biodiversitas 20: 338-343. Recently, there has been a growing interest in research concerning the possible use of plant extracts as alternatives to synthetic insecticides. Essential oils are among the best-known natural substances with insecticidal properties. These compounds may act as fumigants, contact insecticides, repellents, antifeedants and may affect growth and development of the insects. In an attempt to find a natural and inexpensive method for the control of stored-product pests, contact toxicity of essential oils of Nepeta cataria, Nepeta pogonosperma, Nepeta glomerulosa. and Nepeta binaloudensis. were investigated on adult insects of Sitophilus oryzae L. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) in vitro condition. Chemical Composition, repellency and fumigant toxicity of the essential oils were investigated. Chemical composition of the essential oils of above plants were identified by GC-MS. 4aα,7α,7aβ-nepetalactone (82.74 %) was major component of N. cataria and also different isomers of nepetalactone were among the major compounds in N. Pogonosperma and N. binaloudensis oils. In fumigants bioassay, N. glomerulosa (124.318μL/L air) showed the highest toxicity against S. oryzae adults, followed by N.pogonosperma (150.49μL/L air) and N. cataria (152.630μL/L air), respectively. Also, the S. oryzae was repelled by N. cataria (91.61%) and N. binaloudensis (91.50 %), respectively.

The aim of this work was to evaluate the variability in elemental composition of seven medicinal plants and their respective soils belonging to protected and nearby unprotected sites of the Hazarganji Chiltan National Park. The medical plants under study were Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch, Peganum harmala Linn, Sophora mollis (Royle) Baker, Perovskia atriplicifolia Benth, Seriphidium quettense (Podlech.) Ling, Hertia intermedia (Bioss) O. Ktze, and Nepeta praetervisa Rech. F. Macro (C, H, N, S, K, Ca), micro (Cl, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn), beneficial (Al, Co, Na), others (As, Br, Cr, Cs, Hf, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sr, Sn, V and Th) and rare earth elements (Ce, Eu, La, Lu, Nd Sc, Sm, Tb and Yb) were characterized by means of standard organic elemental and instrumental neutron activation methodologies and by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results showed that, among macro nutrients, carbon concentration was the highest element in both plant and soil samples followed by H and K. Elements such as Cl, Na and Fe were detected in considerably good amounts; all the other elements were found in trace quantities. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to identify spatial variation in elemental composition of medicinal plants, in which 80-90% of the total variance in whole set of data was found. In particular, the findings highlighted the presence of essential and beneficial elements such as C, H, N, K, Ca, Fe, Mn and Na, in samples from protected sites, while potentially dangerous elements such as Al, As, Br and Cr were detected in samples from unprotected sites. These results emphasized on the need for rational exploitation of valuable medicinal plants and supporting protected areas as an excellent source of biodiversity conservation.

Nepeta L. (Lamiaceae) species are belonging to aromatic and medicinal plants. Many biological activities of Nepeta species have been reported. In this study, memory-enhancing activities of Nepeta nuda ssp. nuda essential oil was aimed to be evaluated in laboratory rats treated with scopolamine. GC-MS/GC-FID system was used to identify oil composition. Memory performances of the rats were tested using Y-maze and radial-arm maze. Acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity and molecular docking analysis were also performed in this study. In total, 44 different compounds were identified in Nepeta nuda ssp. nuda essential oil. Trans-cis nepetalactone was showed to be the most abundant constituent in the oil. In the Y-maze test, the oil improved the performances of the animals on spontaneous alternation. Besides, in the radial-arm maze test, the oil improved working and reference memory significantly impaired in the rats subjected to scopolamine. The oil also showed acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in vitro. The molecular docking method, in the meantime, revealed that some of the compounds in the oil could interact with the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, theoretically. Nepeta nuda ssp. nuda essential oil improved spatial memory of scopolamine-induced rats. Neuroprotective effects of the oil are probably related to the anti-cholinesterase activity of the oil. Therefore, Nepeta nuda ssp. nuda essential oil could be used as a complementary therapy to improve memory in Alzheimer’s and related diseases.

Monoterpenes are small molecules, composed of two isoprene units, able to pass through the blood brain barrier, allowing to target both peripheral and central pain pathways. They are the main components of essential oils, responsible for their diverse well-known biological activities. Menthol, the main monoterpene found in Mentha piperita (L.) is known to modulate nociceptive threshold and is present in different curative preparations that reduces sensory hypersensitivities in pain conditions. While pulegone is a menthol-like monoterpene, only a limited number of studies focuses on its putative analgesic effects. Pulegone is the most abundant monoterpene presents in Calamintha nepeta (L.), a Laminaceae plant used in traditional medicine to alleviate rheumatic disorders, a chronic inflammatory disease. Here, we compared the impacts of menthol and pulegone on pain and inflammation. First, we described that both monoterpenes are anti-inflammatory compounds. Secondly, we found that while menthol is highly cytotoxic at anti-inflammatory concentrations, the cytotoxic effects of pulegone are limited, if not absent. Finally, in a model of peripheral inflammatory-induced pain a pulegone treatment exerts a significantly higher anti-hyperalgesic effect than menthol in response to mechanical stimuli, heat and cold thermal stimulations than a menthol treatment. In conclusion we demonstrated that pulegone is an anti-inflammatory compound and it is acting a potent pain-killer in acute inflammatory pain condition.

Clinopodium nepeta subsp. glandulosum (Req.) Govaerts is a natural perennial grass belonging to the Lamiaceae family, growing spontaneously on the Mediterranean coast. It is locally known as “kedi fesleğeni” in Turkey. This aromatic plant is used as a mint-like spice in food preparations and in the composition of some recipes during religious feasts. In folk medicine, it is used as stimulant, antiseptic and antispasmodic. Aerial parts of C. nepeta subsp. glandulosum were collected from Bilecik in July 2017, and was air dried. The essential oil was isolated by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus and the composition of the essential oil was simultaneously analysed by GC-FID and GC-MS. Piperitenone oxide (47.8%), limonene (18.6%) and piperitone oxide II (13.6%) were found as major components. Antibacterial activity of the essential oil was tested against Escherichia coli NRRLB-3008, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 13311, Bacillus cereus NRRL-B3711 and Streptococcus sanguinis ATCC 10556 were used by broth microdilution method. Ciprofloxacin was used as control and Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) were determined. The highest activity was found against S. typhimurium (1250 µg/mL). The essential oil is more effective against B. cereus (2500 µg/mL) and S. sanguinis (2500 µg/mL). The lowest activities were determined against E. coli (5000 µg/mL) and P. aeruginosa (10000 µg/mL).

This study was carried out aiming to evaluate the repellent and acaricidal activity of major ingredient compounds from coconut oil including their methyl ester derivatives and catnip oil against nymphs and larvae of Amblyomma sculptum. Repellent candidates, coconut oil free fatty acids (coconut FFA mainly C12, C10 and C8 acid); lauric acid (C12 acid); capric acid (C10 acid); methyl laurate; methyl caprate and 10 % each of C12, C10 and C8 acid (1:1:1) in lavender oil formulation (CFA in lavender formula) and catnip oil (Nepeta cataria), were screened using a Petri dish bioassay to assess repellency. Catnip oil, methyl caprate, methyl laurate, and CFA in lavender formulation repelled ticks strongly (P

Nepeta adenophyta Hedge (Lamiaceae) is an endemic therapeutic herb from Astore, Gilgit (Pakistan). This plant species has been reported among the local communities, especially for treating abdominal pain, kidney pain, menstrual pain, headache, and controlling bleeding disorders. Therefore, the scientific basis is provided for the relief of pain as it is used in various pain management among the natives, especially as ethnogynecological herbal remedy.The present study investigates the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanolic extract of N. adenophyta in animal models. Furthermore, the extract was also studied to determine their valuable phytoconstituents.The biological effects were determined via tail-flick, hot plate, and acetic-acid-induced abdominal writhing methods. At the same time, anti-inflammatory activity was assesed via oxidative burst and antioxidant DPPH assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques were employed to understand the phytochemicals present in the crude ethanolic extract of Nepeta adenophyta.In the current study, Nepeta adenophyta extract exhibited potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on different pain models and indicated that the analgesic effect of N. adenophyta extract is mediated both in central and peripheral ways. Dose-dependent and significant (P 0.05) increases were shown in pain threshold, at 45 min post-treatment, with 20 and 40 mg/kg of the extract in the tail-flick model. The effects of the extract were similar to aspirin but lower to those by morphine (2.5 mg/kg) in the same tests. The extract (20-40 mg/kg) showed dose-dependent inhibition of writhing with a significant (P 0.001) increase protection against thermal stimuli in hot plate test as compared to control and similar to aspirin and morphine. Further, the anti-inflammatory activity of the crude in oxidative burst and DPPH assays showed significant inhibitory activity. The chemical profile analysis showed major phytochemicals, including long chain derivatives of alkane and alcohol, phenolics, naphthalene, naphthopyran, androsten phenanthrenone, nepetalactones, flavonoids etc. CONCLUSIONS: Nepeta adenophyta Hedge is suggested as a natural alternative for mild pain relief. Our findings endorse the folklore use of N. adenophyta in different pain managements which can be attributed to the presence of polyphenolic compounds, naphthalene derivatives, flavanoids and nepetalactones etc.

Two Balkan Peninsula endemics, Nepeta rtanjensis and N. argolica subsp. argolica, both characterized by specialized metabolite profiles predominated by iridoids and phenolics, are differentiated according to the stereochemistry of major iridoid aglycone nepetalactone (NL). For the first time, the present study provides a comparative analysis of antimicrobial and immunomodulating activities of the two Nepeta species and their major iridoids isolated from natural sources—cis,trans-NL, trans,cis-NL, and 1,5,9-epideoxyloganic acid (1,5,9-eDLA), as well as of phenolic acid rosmarinic acid (RA). Methanol extracts and pure iridoids displayed excellent antimicrobial activity against eight strains of bacteria and seven strains of fungi. They were especially potent against food-borne pathogens such as L. monocytogenes, E. coli, S. aureus, Penicillium sp., and Aspergillus sp. Targeted iridoids were efficient agents in preventing biofilm formation of resistant P. aeruginosa strain, and they displayed additive antimicrobial interaction. Iridoids are, to a great extent, responsible for the prominent antimicrobial activities of the two Nepeta species, although are probably minor contributors to the moderate immunomodulatory effects. The analyzed iridoids and RA, individually or in mixtures, have the potential to be used in the pharmaceutical industry as potent antimicrobials, and in the food industry to increase the shelf life and safety of food products.

Nepeta baytopii is a poorly studied, endemic Nepeta species (Lamiaceae) of Turkey. For the first time, the biological activities (antioxidant, enzyme inhibition, and cytotoxicity properties) of the hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, water/methanol, and water extracts and essential oil prepared from N. baytopii aerial parts were assessed. Hydro-methanol (41.25 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g) and water extracts (50.30 mg GAE/g), respectively showed the highest radical scavenging (94.40 and 129.22 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/g, for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and 2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical scavenging assays) and reducing (229.37 and 129.55 mg TE/g, for ferric-reducing antioxidant power and cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity assays) capacities in vitro. An interestingly high inhibition was observed for ethyl acetate extract against butyrylcholinesterase (10.85 mg galantamine equivalent/g). The methanol extract showed high cytotoxicity (31.7%) against HepG2 cells. Caryophyllene oxide was identified in high concentrations in the essential oil (39.3%). Luteolin and apigenin and their derivatives were identified from the methanol and water extracts. The results obtained from this study highlighted that the abundance of highly bioactive compounds from Nepeta baytopii ensures the multiple biological activities of the tested extracts, and this suggests a potential use in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields, and therefore should be investigated further. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Lamiaceae, also known as the mint family, is a family of plants comprising about 245 genera and 7886 species distributed all over the world. Plants of this family are widely used in folk medicine, cosmetics, spices, and as a flavoring agents in food. With the exception of the coldest polar regions, Lamiaceae species are distributed almost throughout the world, particularly in tropical and temperate areas, including the Mediterranean region and in tropical upland savannas. The Lamiaceae family is known for a wealth of species possessing medicinal properties with a strong history of use since early times and is well known for high essential oil content, for their richness with polyphenolic compounds and terpenoids. All of these classes of compounds are of great interest due to their biological activities. A number of studies conducted on different species of Lamiaceae family and their effects on memory, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders have been reported. For example, Rosmarinus officinalis has long been known as the herb of remembrance and was proved to boost memory, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve sleep quality. Different salvia species are used to enhance memory, as a sedative and for the treatment of headaches. Evidence for the use of other Lamiaceae species on the central nervous system (CNS), such as Dracocephalum moldavica. Clerodendrum formicarum, Nepeta clarkei has also been reported. Thymol and menthol are examples of the essential oils identified in species from Lamiaceae. It has been reported that thymol and menthol both act as positive modulators on GABAA receptors (the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian CNS acting through a number of pharmacologically and structurally different receptor subtypes). Thymol was reported to have a GABAergic activity and acts as a positive allosteric modulator with a mechanism of action similar to other depressants, such as diazepam. This review aims to survey the current literature on the effect of Lamiaceae family and its use in the treatment of CNS disorders to provide sufficient baseline information that would improve the knowledge and the application of this family as safe therapeutic alternatives.

The rise of the emergence of microbial resistance of antibiotics, the dangerous side effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and noncompetent medications of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases prompt scientists to search for phytochemicals that could be utilized in the remedy of lethal diseases. Glechoma curviflora (Boiss.) Kuntze (Nepeta curviflora) is a medicinal herb growing in the eastern parts of the Mediterranean Sea Basin and is widely consumed as a tea. The leaves of this plant have been traditionally used for the treatment of various infectious diseases. The current research was designed to identify the chemical composition of Glechoma curviflora (Boiss.) essential oil (EO) and to assess its antibacterial, antifungal, and cyclooxygenase inhibitory activities and the biophysical gating effect on AMPA receptors. Twenty phytochemicals were identified from G. curviflora leaves and flowers EO amounting to almost 100% of the total constituents using GC-MS technique, of which 1,6-dimethylspiro[4.5]decane (27.51%) 1, caryophyllene oxide (20.08%) 2, and β-caryophyllene (18.28%) 3 were the main constituents. The biophysical properties’ effect from the plant extract on various AMPA-type receptors expressed in Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK293) cells was assessed by exploiting the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Microdilution assay was adopted for assessing the antimicrobial property against eight virulent microbial strains whilst the cyclooxygenase inhibition effect was accomplished utilizing COX inhibitory screening colorimetric assay G. curviflora EO displayed potent activity against P. aeruginosa (MIC = 1.25 μg/mL), S. sonnei (MIC = 3.12 μg/mL), and E. coli (MIC = 1.25 μg/mL), compared with ciprofloxacin (positive control) and potent antibacterial activity against S. aureus, MRSA, S. sonnei, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa compared to Ampicillin (2nd positive control). It also showed anti-Candida (MIC = 6.25 μg/mL) and antimold (MIC = 3.125 μg/mL) activities compared with fluconazole (antifungal positive control). Likewise, our results showed an inhibition and biophysical impact of G. curviflora on all AMPARs subunits.

Actinidine, a methylcyclopentane monoterpenoid pyridine alkaloid, has been found in many iridoid-rich plants and insect species. In a recent research on a well-known actinidine- and iridoid-producing ant species, Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), no actinidine was detected in its hexane extracts by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis using a common sample injection method, but a significant amount of actinidine was detected when a solid injection technique with a thermal separation probe was used. This result led us to hypothesize that heat can induce the production of actinidine in iridoid-rich organisms. To test our hypothesis, the occurrence of actinidine was investigated in four iridoid-rich organisms under different sample preparation temperatures, including two ant species, T. melanocephalum and Iridomyrmex anceps Roger (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), and two plant species, Actinidia polygama Maxim (Ericales: Actinidiaceae) and Nepeta cataria L. (Lamiales: Lamiaceae). Within a temperature range of 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 °C, no actinidine was detected at 50 °C, but it appeared at temperatures above 100 °C for all four species. A positive relationship was observed between the heating temperature and actinidine production. The results indicate that actinidine could be generated at high temperatures. We also found that the presence of methylcyclopentane monoterpenoid iridoids (iridodials and nepetalactone) was needed for thermally induced actinidine production in all tested samples. These results suggest that the presence of actinidine in iridoid-rich plants and ants might be a consequence of using high temperatures during sample preparation.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Nepeta is a multiregional genus of the “Lamiaceae” (Labiatae or Mint) family. Species of Nepeta are a valuable part of traditional medicine and used extensively, particularly in the Himalayan region of India (Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Leh-Ladakh), Pakistan (Khyber Pakhtunkhwaand Pakistani Kashmir), Nepal (Baglund district), also in China and hilly regions of Turkey and Iran. Nepeta species are extensively used as a remedy against a variety of ailments and conditions like chicken pox, tuberculosis, malaria, pneumonia, influenza, measles, stomach disorders, eye complaints, respiratory disorders, asthma, colds, coughs etc. Aim of the review The main aim of this review is to present a comprehensive and detailed study on traditional uses, pharmacology, phytochemistry, toxicology of Nepeta species and suggest future direction on the design and conduct of various preparations, either alone or in blends with prevailing conventional remedies. The review also emphasizes encouraging researchers towards the wide range of pharmaceutical applications of the various species of Nepeta for their better use and exploration in the future. Material and methods All the relevant data and information on different species of Nepeta were assembled using different databases, such as Science Direct, Springer, PubMed, Taylor and Francis imprints, Chemspider, Google scholar, review and research articles from peer-reviewed journals and unpublished data. Some select ‘grey literature’ sources viz. ethnobotanical books, chapters, Wikipedia and webpages were also studied. Results A variety of bioactive secondary metabolites and nutraceuticals has been isolated from various species of Nepeta. These bioactive compounds belong to different classes of secondary metabolites, such as phenolic acids and their glycosides (rosmarinic acid, gallic acid, caffeic acid), flavonoids and their glycosides (cirsimaritin, salvigenin, luteolin, apigenin), iridoids (nepetalactones and their derivatives), terpenoids (1,8-cineole, linalool, β-caryophyllene, germacrene D, parnapimaro, β-amyrin, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid), steroids (β-sitosterol, stigmasterol), lignans, amino acids, carbohydrates, volatile oils, etc. The species of the genus Nepeta possess a variety of pharmacological activities namely anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, anti-alzheimer, anticancer and cytotoxic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, insecticidal and along with other biological activities. Conclusion The species of the genus Nepeta contains a rich source of various bioactive compounds, which are well tolerated as traditional medicines. In fact, different species of Nepeta are widely used in a variety of traditional medicinal systems all around the world. Owing to the variety of pharmacological properties of Nepeta species, more comprehensive and inclusive clinical trials are necessary for the utilization of different Nepeta species against the treatment of a wide range of ailments. There are also various other uses such as food, cosmetic and agriculture that can be investigated or explored in future. Some of the major domains that can be explored within this genus are the investigation of different species for their unexplored biological potential, isolation and characterization of new bioactive constituents and finally, investigation of new applications and possible commercialization of these bioactive leads. No doubt, there are various viable research domains outside those discussed above, but presently for the purposes of this review we will only emphasize the activities herein.

Nepeta curviflora Boiss. (Syrian catnip) is native to the Middle East. This medicinal plant is commonly used against nervous disorders, rheumatic pains, and high blood pressure. Herbal infusions prepared from various Nepeta spp. are extensively consumed as functional food. However, limited information has been known about the phenolic constituents of Syrian catnip. In this study, two acylated flavone 7-O-glucuronides, apigenin 7-O-(2&Prime, O-(2‴-(E-caffeoyl)-&beta, glucuronopyranosyl)-&beta, glucuronopyranoside) (1) and luteolin 7-O-(2&Prime, glucuronopyranoside) (2), along with the known phenolic compounds rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, apigenin, and apigenin 7-O-&beta, glucopyranoside were isolated from the aerial parts of N. curviflora. The characterizations of these compounds were based on high-resolution mass spectrometry, UV, and extensive use of multidimensional NMR spectroscopy. The new compounds (1 and 2) were identified in the unmodified state and as dimethylesters.

This study was carried out to screen the amount and the classes of secondary metabolites and to evaluate the antioxidant, cytotoxic, antifungal, and antibacterial activities of the methanolic, ethanolic, and water extracts of the roots, leaves, and flowers of Nepeta juncea Benth. The results show that the highest total phenol (69.54 &plusmn, 0.31 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry weight), total flavonoid (41.37 &plusmn, 0.17 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g dry weight), anthocyanin (6.52 &plusmn, 0.21 mg cyanidin/100 g dry weight), and tannin (47.36 &plusmn, 0.33 mg catechin/g dry weight) concentrations were recorded in the methanolic extract of the leaves of N. juncea. The gas chromatography&ndash, mass spectrometry (GC&ndash, MS) analysis of the extracts showed that 1,8-cineole, 4a&alpha, 7&alpha, 7a&alpha, nepetalactone, &beta, pinene, terpinen-4-ol, and &alpha, terpineol were the major compounds, respectively. The best 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and ferric-reducing antioxidant, cytotoxic, antifungal, and antibacterial activities were observed for the methanolic extract of the leaves. For the two latter activities, the best activity was revealed on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Candida albicans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for the antimicrobial of the methanolic extract from the leaves were in the range of 25&ndash, 100 &micro, g/mL, whereas the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were in the range of 50&ndash, 200 &micro, g/mL. The results reported herein show that, for the first time in the literature, N. juncea is a remarkable source of antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial compounds.

The society has become increasingly interested in using natural products over chemicals for cleaning activities. In this study, the cleaning potential of formulations embedded in a hydrogel matrix and composed respectively of essential oils (EOs) of Origanum vulgare, Thymus vulgaris, and Calamintha nepeta, and their respective main active components (EO-ACs), viz., Carvacrol, Thymol, and Pulegone, on a phototropic biofilm growing on granite was investigated. In addition, and for comparative purposes, analysis with the combination of the three EOs, the combination of the three EO-ACs, and Preventol RI-80&reg, (one of the most effective commercial cleaning agents based on quaternary ammonium salts) in all three cases embedded in a hydrogel matrix, as well as only the hydrogel matrix, distilled water, and Preventol RI-80&reg, in both latter cases applied with brush, were also studied. The cleaning effect of the treatments was assessed immediately after the treatment and after one and two weeks by color spectrophotometry, a reliable tool to evaluate the presence and vitality of the phototrophs and the cleaning effectiveness in granite. C. nepeta and its active component Pulegone proved to be the most effective and yielded similar results, comparable to those of uncolonized granite, and better than those obtained with Preventol RI-80&reg, applied with brush (most common way), especially at the end of the experiment. These promising first results support the suitable use of the phytochemical compounds used on phototrophs field where there are still few published studies and encourage further investigation toward the evaluation of their exhibited biocidal activity.

In the present study, the essential oil and aroma compositions of Nepeta heliotropifolia (NH) and N. congesta subsp. cryptantha (NC) were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC/FID), and their phenolic compounds by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In addition, antioxidant, cytotoxic, anticholinesterase, urease, and tyrosinase activities of essential oils obtained from NH and NC aerial parts and ethanol extracts prepared from different parts of NH and NC were investigated. The major constituent of water-distilled essential oils was found to be germacrene D (36.7% and 38.5%, respectively), and their main aroma component was eucalyptol (48.0% and 24.7%, respectively). Among the studied parts of NH and NC, their flowers extracts were found to be the richest in phenolic compounds and in which the most abundant compound was rosmarinic acid (8,909.91 and 4,317.20 μg/g, respectively). NH and NC flower extracts exhibited also strong antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS, and CUPRAC assays. Among the tested samples, NH essential oil indicated the best cytotoxic effect against PDF, HT-29, and MCF-7 (IC50 52.34, 25.89, and 44.70 μg/ml, respectively), and the highest butyrylcholinesterase (77.21 ± 1.12% inhibition) and moderate acetylcholinesterase (41.36 ± 0.69% inhibition) inhibitory activities. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This is the first report on the essential oil and aroma compositions, the phenolic compounds, the antioxidant with total phenolic and flavonoid contents, cytotoxic, anticholinesterase, urease, and tyrosinase activities of Nepeta heliotropifolia and N. congesta subsp. cryptantha, except for their essential oil compositions. The reported results suggested that Nepeta heliotropifolia and N. congesta subsp. cryptantha flowers being rich in rosmarinic acid and having strong antioxidant potential, and NH essential oil possessing significant cytotoxic and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory effect could be source for nutraceutical, food, and drug industries.

A number of Nepeta species (fam. Lamiaceae) are interesting medicinal crops for arid and semi-arid areas, due to their ability to maintain essential developmental and physiological processes and to rationalize their specialized metabolism under water deficit growth conditions. The present research is, to our knowledge, the first attempt to investigate the molecular background of the dehydration-induced changes in specialized metabolism of Nepeta species, which will help to understand relations between dehydration stress on one hand and biomass production and yield of nepetalactone (NL) on the other. During the 6 days exposure of Nepeta rtanjensis Diklić & Milojević and Nepeta argolica Bory & Chaub. ssp. argolica plants to PEG-induced dehydration stress under experimental in vitro conditions, decrease in transcript levels of the majority of 10 NL biosynthetic genes, and some of the 5 transcription factors (TFs) were recorded, simultaneously with the initial reduction in NL content. The two model species evidently employ similar strategies in response to severe dehydration stress; however N. rtanjensis is highlighted as the species more efficient in maintaining NL amounts in tissues. The results suggest trichome-specific and co-ordinately regulated NL biosynthesis at the level of gene expression, with trichome enriched MYC2 and YABBY5 TFs being the potential positive regulators. Manipulation of such TFs can be effective for engineering the NL biosynthetic pathway, and for the increased production of cis,trans-NL in N. argolica ssp. argolica and trans,cis-NL in N. rtanjensis.

Chemists and industrialists are continuously attempting to develop greener and more environmentally benign chemical processes to extract essential oils and bioactive metabolites of high purity, finding various applications in cosmetics, detergents, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. An increase preferenced for natural products over synthetic ones has made supercritical fluid technology a primary alternative for the generation of high-value bioactive ingredients. This effective technique requires only moderate temperatures, eliminates clean-up steps and avoids the use of harmful organic solvents. In this context, our study was focused on the chemical analysis of Calamintha nepeta subsp. nepeta aromatic extracts obtained with supercritical carbon dioxide. The effect of different operating conditions on the capacity of the lipophilic solvent to extract the targeted volatile components was also studied. The process was carried out at a fairly low constant temperature of 40°C, and with varying the pressure from 90 to 300 bar. The chemical composition of the extracts was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. The results showed that the composition pattern, the concentrations of individual components and the quality of the extractable analytes were affected by pressure increase. The extraction yields varied from 0.73 to 1.21 wt% at 90 and 300 bar, respectively.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria L.), a popular aromatic herb used as a traditional medicine is more widely recognized for its use in the pet toy industry due to the behavioral effects it elicits on cats and other felids. A major interest in catnip is also due to its repellent activity against arthropods. Essential oil of catnip is an effective repellent against several species of mosquitoes, flies, ticks, mites, and other disease vectors, with results comparable to DEET. Both the repellency to arthropods and the characteristic effects on cats are mainly attributed to nepetalactone, a bicyclic oxygenated monoterpene in the essential oil of catnip. While catnip is grown as a garden herb and in the open field for dried biomass and essential oil, the lack of improved genetic materials makes it difficult for North American growers to expand production and ensure adequate product supply. The present chapter provides an overview of the recent advances in breeding, biochemistry, production systems, biological activities and potential new uses of N. cataria and other Nepeta species in North America.

The present investigation was focused on the study of the chemical composition variability and biological activities of the essential oils from Clinopodium nepeta subsp. nepeta and subsp. glandulosum. Essential oils extraction was performed using hydrodistillation and the separation of the constituents was carried out by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antifungal activities were tested against Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus terreus, Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Candida albicans. Toxicity and repellency were evaluated against the stored product pests Tribolium confusum and Sitophilus zeamais. Both essential oils were characterized by a high content of oxygenated monoterpenes. Piperitone ranks first in the subspecies nepeta and piperitenone oxide is the dominant constituent in the subspecies glandulosum. All tested samples displayed noteworthy antifungal properties, with the highest activity observed for the essential oil of C. nepeta subsp. glandulosum, collected in B&eacute, ni-M&rsquo, tir, against T. mentagrophytes (MIC = 40 &micro, g/mL). The essential oil samples of C. nepeta subsp. glandulosum were strongly repellent to the insect species (PR &gt, 80%, after 2h) and highly toxic to S. zeamais reaching 97.5%&ndash, 100% mortality after 24 h of exposure. In conclusion, this study showed considerable intra-specific changes in the quality of C. nepeta essential oils, which is reflected in different rates of antifungal and insecticidal activity.

espanolNepeta es uno de los generos mas grandes y mas importantes de la familia Lamiaceae. Esta ampliamente distribuido por casi todo el mundo. Son plantas silvestres aromaticas, productoras de los aceites esenciales usados en los productos farmaceuticos e industriales. En el presente trabajo se analiza la composicion de los aceites esenciales en ocho taxones diferentes de Nepeta . Se ha seleccionado una poblacion natural de cada taxon. Para la extraccion de los aceites esenciales se ha usado el aparato de tipo Clevenger. Ademas, el metodo de GC y GC/MS analisis se han usado para detectar la variabilidad en la composicion y el perfil de los aceites entre diferentes taxones. Los monoterpenos oxigenados son el componente dominante en los aceites de N. meyeri , N. mirzayanii , N. racemosa , N. binaludensis y N. glomerulosa. Fitol es el componente dominante en los aceites de N. kotschyi var. persica y N. saccharata (11.56% y 27.04%, respectivamente). 4aα,7α,7aβ-nepetalactone (73.89%) y 4aα,7β,7aα-nepetalactone (83.92%) son components predominantes para N. mirzayanii y N. meyeri , respectivamente. 1,8-cineol es el componente mayoritario en los aceites de N. glomerulosa var. carmanica , N. binaludensis , N. pogonosperma y N. racemosa (23.34%, 43.49%, 53.94% y 70.89%, respectivamente). Los taxones estudiados se clasificaron en cuatro grupos diferentes segun el analisis UPGMA, con los altos valores de soporte. Cada grupo esta caracterizado por los caracter(es) que se podrian usar para su identificacion. Por lo tanto, se separaron cuatro quimiotipos entre los taxones estudiados: 1,8-cineol, 4aα, 7α, 7aβ-nepetalactona, 4aα, 7β, 7aα-nepetalactona y carvacrol. Tambien se observo que la composicion de los aceites esenciales era muy variada en comparacion con los resultados anteriores. EnglishNepeta is one of the largest and important genera of Lamiaceae that is found in many parts of the world as wild plants. These aromatic plants produce essential oil for various pharmaceutical and industrial products. The essential oil composition in eight taxa of Nepeta was analyzed. One natural population from each taxon was selected, and their essential oils extracted using Clevenger apparatus. Moreover, GC and GC/MS analysis methods allowed to reveal the variability in essential oil composition and profile among the studied taxa. The oxygenated monoterpenes were dominant in the oils of N. meyeri , N. mirzayanii , N. racemosa , N. binaludensis , and N. glomerulosa. Phytol was the major compound in the essential oil of N. kotschyi var. persica and N. saccharata (11.56% and 27.04%, respectively). 4aα,7α,7aβ-nepetalactone (73.89%) and 4aα,7β,7aα-nepetalactone (83.92%) were the major constituents in essential oil of N. mirzayanii and N. meyeri , respectively. 1,8-cineol was the principal constituent in the oil of N. glomerulosa var. carmanica , N. binaludensis , N. pogonosperma and N. racemosa (23.34%, 43.49%, 53.94% and 70.89%, respectively). The studied taxa were classified into four distinct groups according to the UPGMA tree with high level of bootstrapping support. Each group was characterized by special trait(s) that could be used for identification of them. Therefore, four chemotypes were separated among the studied taxa: 1,8-cineol, 4aα,7α,7aβ-nepetalactone, 4aα,7β,7aα-nepetalactone, and carvacrol. It was also noticed that the composition of essential oil was highly varied compared to previous results

Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a versatile tool for genetic studies that has been applied to a variety of plant species. With the advent of more accessible genomic and transcriptomic technology applied to an increasing range of plants, tools such as VIGS are being adapted to more non-model plants to explore genes relevant to agriculture and chemical discovery. In this protocol, we adapted VIGS technology to target genes in Nepeta cataria (catnip) and Nepeta mussinii (catmint). These plants carry biochemical and economical value for their production of nepetalactone, an iridoid which provokes a strong reaction in both house cats and aphids. We describe a method to target magnesium chelatase subunit H (CHlH), a gene often targeted as a visual marker for VIGS. Furthermore, we describe a method to simultaneously target two genes in a single plant, which aids in the study of genes found in key biochemical steps in the production of nepetalactone. This approach, which was successfully applied in two members of the Lamiaceae family (mint), could be adapted to other members of the mint family with economical and chemical value.