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Obesity represents a significant global public health challenge. Various therapeutic strategies for weight reduction are available, including formulations containing medicinal plants, which are favored due to their availability and low cost. The efficacy and safety of these formulations must be evaluated as they can lead to adverse reactions, including severe hepatic injuries. Despite their widespread usage, particularly among residents of the Amazon, there is a considerable gap in knowledge regarding the species of medicinal plants used in these formulations. This study evaluated the labels of natural weight loss products sold from January to October 2022 at the Ver-o-Peso market in Belém, Brazil. A subsequent review of databases was performed to identify plants listed on the labels that were associated with hepatic injuries. In total, 54 plants were identified in these products, primarily in mixed formulations. None of the labels adhered to current legislative standards. Furthermore, nine of these plants were documented in the literature as having hepatotoxic effects, either through in vivo or in vitro studies. The presence of medicinal plants that can cause liver injury on the labels of weight loss compounds is a relevant issue requiring rigorous health surveillance intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes, considered one of the main causes of death in the Mexican population, is a chronic disease caused by alterations in the synthesis of pancreatic insulin or because it is not used effectively by the body. Insufficient action of insulin causes hyperglycemia, which, if not controlled, causes damage to blood capillaries and nerve endings over time, affecting the functioning of various organs and systems. As mentioned above, controlling glucose levels in the population suffering from chronic diseases becomes an essential part of their treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of the aerial parts of Porophyllum ruderale (HEPr). A glucose tolerance curve was developed by monitoring at different times (0–120 min) glucose levels in blood samples taken from an apical tail slice of CD1 mice. HEPr showed a significant effect from baseline on basal glucose levels (114.33 ± 14.74 mg/dL) compared with the control group (60.33 ± 4.16 mg/dL) and the metformin-treated group (129 ± 13 mg/dL). In addition, the values at the end of the tolerance curve (120 min) showed a significant decrease in the study group (66 ± 10.39 mg/dL) compared with the metformin-treated group (108.67 ± 4.50 mg/dL). This effect can be attributed to the presence of chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol 3-O-glucosides in HEPr. In conclusion, P. ruderale constitutes an important source of compounds for use as an adjuvant treatment for the control of hypoglycemia in different chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgery commonly causes post-operative pain that should be alleviated to prevent complications. In addition to the use of synthetic drugs, there has been a widespread desire to use medicinal plants for surgical pain management. Thymoquinone (TQ), a constituent of Nigella sativa black seeds, exhibits a potent anti-oxidant property. Celecoxib (CLX), a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is widely used in pain management. In the present study, the effects of TQ and CLX on pain caused by hind paw surgical incision were compared. Fifty-six rats were divided into four groups of 14 rats as intact, vehicle, TQ, and CLX groups. In each group, six rats were planned to record pain-related behaviors on days 1 - 10 and eight rats were designed for determination of serum biochemical alterations on days 1 (four rats) and 3 (four rats) after surgery. Oral administrations of TQ and CLX at a same dose of 10.00 mg kg-1 alleviated paw lifting number (spontaneous pain) and paw withdrawal threshold evoked by von Frey filaments on metal mesh floor, improved the decreased contents of serum total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase, and restored the increased levels of serum malondialdehyde and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. The results suggested that TQ by employing anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, might relieve the pain induced by hind paw plantar incision, being comparable with CLX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conditions like diabetes mellitus (DM), cancer, infections, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and gastrointestinal (GI) disorders continue to have a major global impact on mortality and morbidity. Medicinal plants have been used since ancient times in ethnomedicine (e.g., Ayurveda, Unani, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and European Traditional Medicine) for the treatment of a wide range of disorders. Plants are a rich source of diverse phytoconstituents with antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, cardioprotective, immunomodulatory, and/or anti-inflammatory activities. This review focuses on the 35 plants most commonly reported for the treatment of these major disorders, with a particular emphasis on their traditional uses, phytoconstituent contents, pharmacological properties, and modes of action. Active phytomolecules with therapeutic potential include cucurbitane triterpenoids, diosgenin, and limonoids (azadiradione and gedunin), which exhibit antidiabetic properties, with cucurbitane triterpenoids specifically activating Glucose Transporter Type 4 (GLUT4) translocation. Capsaicin and curcumin demonstrate anticancer activity by deactivating NF-κB and arresting the cell cycle in the G2 phase. Antimicrobial activities have been observed for piperine, reserpine, berberine, dictamnine, chelerythrine, and allitridin, with the latter two triggering bacterial cell lysis. Quercetin, catechin, and genistein exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, with genistein specifically suppressing CD8+ cytotoxic T cell function. Ginsenoside Rg1 and ginsenoside Rg3 demonstrate potential for treating cardiovascular diseases, with ginsenoside Rg1 activating PPARα promoter, and the PI3K/Akt pathway. In contrast, ternatin, tannins, and quercitrin exhibit potential in gastrointestinal disorders, with quercitrin regulating arachidonic acid metabolism by suppressing cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase activity. Further studies are warranted to fully investigate the clinical therapeutic benefits of these plants and their phytoconstituents, as well as to elucidate their underlying molecular mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elderberry hydrolate, derived from the berries of Sambucus nigra, has gained attention for its therapeutic properties, particularly in skincare. This review explores its potential applications in palliative care, where patients often experience compromised skin health due to illness or treatment. The bioactive compounds in elderberry hydrolate, including phenylacetaldehyde, 2-acetyl-pyrrole, n-hexanal, furfural, and (E)-beta-damascenone, contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and skin-healing effects. These properties make it a promising option for addressing common dermatological issues in palliative care, such as irritation, dryness, pruritus, and inflammation. For example, phenylacetaldehyde's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions help soothe irritated skin, while 2-acetyl-pyrrole's antioxidant effects protect sensitive skin from oxidative stress. Additionally, n-hexanal's antimicrobial properties reduce infection risks and furfural aids in skin regeneration. (E)-beta-damascenone's antioxidant effects help maintain skin health and prevent further damage. Despite these promising effects, barriers to the widespread implementation of elderberry hydrolate in palliative care exist, including cost, accessibility, patient sensitivities, and regulatory challenges. Future research focusing on standardized chemical profiling, clinical trials, and addressing these practical concerns will be crucial for integrating elderberry hydrolate into palliative care regimens. This review highlights its potential as a natural, supportive therapy for enhancing patient comfort and quality of life in palliative care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's world, people are more prone to diseases due to food adulteration and pollution in the environment, and people have found a way of using herbal medicine as an alternative to allopathic medicine, especially since coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Medicinal plants are the source of herbal medicines that increase the immunity of humans. Medicinal plants are used in many applications, like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and drugs. Medicinal plants are of great importance, and hence this work presents a review of the medicinal plants grown in Karnataka State, India. The work also highlights species identification and disease detection of medicinal plants employing machine learning and deep learning approaches. The paper provides information about datasets available for various medicinal plant leaf images. The deep learning models used for species identification and disease detection in medicinal plants have been discussed along with the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to explore the saponins composition of H. nepalensis in four northwest mountainous areas of Vietnam including Ha Giang, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, and Lang Son with the aid of high-resolution mass spectrometry. As a result, 42 saponins are successfully identified in H. nepalensis leaves by UHPLC‐Q‐TOF-MS/MS analyses, in which two 30-noroleanane and four oleanane triterpene saponins structures have been reported for the first time. Two structures of compound 20 were discovered in four samples. Two structures of compound 8 were found in H. nepalensis from Ha Giang and Lao Cai, while two structures of compound 28 were not observed in Lang Son. Different environmental and climatic circumstances in various places may have an impact on chemical constituents of H. nepalensis. By providing the phytochemicals profile of H. nepalensis leaves, our study supports the orientation for future research on this medicinal plant as well as other Hedera species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saussurea medusa is a rare alpine plant with significant medicinal value. To better understand the changes in its habitat in the context of climate change, this study used an optimized MaxEnt model to predict the current and future habitat of S. medusa under four shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) across three time periods (current, mid-century, and end-century) based on three climate system models. The results showed that the suitable habitat of S. medusa is mainly located in the southern and eastern parts of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau (QXP), exhibiting a fragmented distribution pattern. The future suitable area of S. medusa is projected to decrease significantly by 42.5% to 96.7%, accompanied by a southward shift in its centroid and an upward shift in altitude. The study found that the highest temperature in the warmest month is the most important environmental factor affecting the distribution of S. medusa. This species is highly sensitive to climate change and requires urgent protection measures. Priority should focus on strengthening habitat protection in the southeastern Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, where some stable habitats remain outside protected areas. Expanding population monitoring, promoting ex-situ conservation, enhancing public education, and encouraging community involvement are essential. Additionally, as a medicinal plant, alternative strategies are needed to curb overharvesting of wild resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to diverse indigenous medicinal plants traditionally used for centuries. This study systematically evaluates the pharmacological and nutritional potential of key medicinal plants, including Lawsonia inermis, Nigella sativa, Ziziphus spina-christi, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Cymbopogon schoenanthus, Matricaria aurea, Phoenix dactylifera, Portulaca oleracea, Reichardia tingitana, Salvadora persica, Solanum lycopersicum, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Withania somnifera, and Ziziphus lotus. Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify studies relevant to their nutritional and pharmacological uses. The findings highlight the therapeutic roles of these plants in managing global health challenges such as gastrointestinal diseases, and antimicrobial resistance through bioactive compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Additionally, their contributions to nutrition, including essential vitamins and minerals, are emphasized for disease prevention and health promotion. While this research focuses on the UAE, the implications are globally relevant, as many of these plants are also found in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Integrating these findings into global nutritional and healthcare systems offers potential solutions for pressing public health concerns, reduces reliance on synthetic pharmaceuticals, and promotes sustainable healthcare practices. This work is a valuable reference for researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, bridging traditional knowledge and modern scientific applications globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understory cultivation pattern of medicinal plants is a kind of planting mode which makes full use of land resources, light, and heat resources. This planting mode is under the forest on the basis of fully understanding the growth environment of medicinal plants and using the principle of the symbiosis of forest medicine. The understory planting mode plays a positive role in the protection and sustainable utilization of forest resources, plants diversity, and ecological environment. Therefore, this planting mode has become a popular choice for the development of forest industry. This review mainly focus on the research progress in understory planting mode of medicinal plants, including the advantages of understory planting, the influence of understory planting on forest ecosystem, and the factors affecting the understory cultivation of medicinal plants. And it also proposes the possibility of optimizing the cultivation conditions of planting patterns of medicinal plants under forests through integrated analysis of metabolomics and transcriptomics. This review provides guidance and suggestions for related research on the sustainable development of understory planting medicinal plants and the rational utilization of forest land resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) does not act on latent HIV reservoirs, and no latency-reversing agent (LRA) to date consistently reduces viral reservoirs in humans. In Sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere, complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are traditionally used to manage HIV/AIDS, including a subset with LRA properties. Recent Findings: Several plants from the Euphorbiaceae and Thymelaeaceae families have been recently documented for traditional HIV/AIDS management and contain LRAs that function through protein kinase C activation. These CAM are increasingly validated in HIV-infected primary cells and humanized mice. Engagement with traditional health practitioners (THPs) which prioritizes data and benefits sharing can improve trust relations, build long-term collaborations, and advance mutual knowledge on these unique CAM. Summary: CAM used traditionally for HIV/AIDS management include LRAs already used by humans, but more study and collaboration with THPs are needed to understand their potential to support global cART-free HIV remission and cure efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study documents the Euphorbiaceae family of plants in Southern Africa, with a focus on their traditional medicinal applications, pharmacological properties, toxicity, and active secondary metabolites. A review of the literature from scientific journals, books, dissertations, and conference papers spanning from 1962 to 2023 was conducted for 15 Euphorbia species. Recent findings indicate that specific compounds found in Euphorbia plants exhibit significant biological and pharmacological properties. However, the white sticky latex sap they contain is highly toxic, although it may also have medicinal applications. Phytochemical analyses have demonstrated that these plants exhibit beneficial effects, including antibacterial, antioxidant, antiproliferative, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-HIV activities. Key phytochemicals such as euphol, cycloartenol, tirucallol, and triterpenoids contribute to their therapeutic efficacy, along with various proteins like lectin and lysozyme. Despite some Euphorbiaceae species undergoing screening for medicinal compounds, many remain insufficiently examined, highlighting a critical gap in the research literature. Given their historical usage, further investigations are essential to evaluate the medicinal significance of Euphorbia species through detailed studies of isolated compounds and their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This research will serve as a valuable resource for future inquiries into the benefits of lesser-studied Euphorbia species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term stability of orally transmitted ethnopharmacopoeias is of interest, but difficult to study for lack of information on plants used by a specific past culture. Similarities between modern Italian ethnopharmacopoeias and Dioscorides' classical text have been proposed to derive from modern replacement of traditional practices with those from published translations of Dioscorides. Ibn al-Baytar produced the best compendium of medicinal substances in medieval Islamic science. He gave "Berber" common names for some plants, which were presumptively used by North African Amazigh people. Since Amazigh traditional knowledge was largely transmitted orally, with little access to medieval literature, this allows comparison of historic (>750 years ago) practices and modern practices that are unlikely to be causally derived. Presumptive identities for Ibn al-Baytar's plants with Berber names were obtained from key references. Recent ethnomedicinal publications from Amazigh-populated areas in North Africa were surveyed for reports of those species and homologous common names. Of 46 historically used plants, an estimated 60.9% are still used in Amazigh regions, 78.6% with homologous common names. This is likely to underestimate persistence of species use across the entire local pharmacopoeia. Second, emulating a published analysis of Dioscorides, plants reported by three large recent studies in Amazigh regions were compared with plants recorded by Ibn al-Baytar and in a comprehensive modern Moroccan reference. Between 58.2% and 73.8% of species included in individual studies were recorded by Ibn al-Baytar; of the 46 shared among all three, 82.6% were recorded by Ibn al-Baytar and 100% by the modern reference. An historical compilation may be more likely to mention plants that are widely used today simply because a thorough author could document most plants that were widely used at the time; use of such data to assess causality should take that effect into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graptopetalum paraguayense (G. paraguayense) is a succulent plant that has been used in traditional Chinese and Taiwanese medicine, mainly for antihypertensive and hepatoprotective activities. G. paraguayense is also used as an edible vegetable, which is considered a functional food. Different in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies have highlighted the multiple pharmacological activities of G. paraguayense, which include anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antiasthma, antihypertensive, skin-whitening and anti-aging, anti-Alzheimer, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective activities. Numerous studies revealed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of G. paraguayense, which may be the major contributing factor for multiple pharmacological activities and the protective effect of G. paraguayense on pancreatic, liver, lung, colon, and brain diseases. Initial safety studies on animal models also support the therapeutic candidature of G. paraguayense. The presence of numerous bioactive phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, and the identification of important disease targets of G. paraguayense emphasize its high therapeutic potential. The lack of a directional approach and limited in vivo studies limit the development of G. paraguayense against important diseases. Still, a compilation of pharmacological activities and target pathways of G. paraguayense is missing in the literature. The current review not only compiles pharmacological activities and phytochemicals but also highlights gaps and proposes future directions for developing G. paraguayense as a candidate against important diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cathetus clarkei, a significant folk medicinal plant, is utilized to treat a variety of ailments. In this study, we reported the complete chloroplast genome sequence of this species. The length of the complete chloroplast genome was 155,810 bp, included a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions (26,340 bp), a large single-copy region (LSC, 84,853 bp), and a small single-copy region (SSC, 18,277 bp). It comprised 128 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The total GC content was 36.8%. The phylogenetic tree revealed that C. clarkei had a close relationship with P. cochinchinensis, followed by P. reticulatus. This study provides a reference for important medicinal plants within the Phyllanthaceae, and we can gain a deeper understanding of how the species adapts to changes in the environment, helping us to identify and protect it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in cases of various cancers, the number of cancer patients, and the serious side effects of current chemical treatments have encouraged researchers to discover novel and more effective drugs from plant sources. In this review, PubMed and Scopus were searched for English-language peer-reviewed articles published since 1994, using the keywords: Medicinal plants, Egypt, and Cancer. The inclusion criteria for this systematic review were English peer-reviewed original research articles. A total of 286 studies were included. Studies have shown that the active compounds in certain plants can have anticancer activities by various mechanisms, such as cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, it is evident that medicinal plants can act as inhibitors of cancer cells. Plants can also act as immune checkpoint inhibitors, which inhibit proteins such as PD-L1 on tumor cells, PD-1 and CTLA-4 on T cells, and help to regulate immune responses. This review also discusses the efficacy of nanoparticles of these plants against cancer cells. The findings indicate the high potential of investigating the bioactive anticancer components of Egyptian medicinal plants for advancing novel treatments that are more effective in combating cancer. The extracts and active compounds of the medicinal plants detailed in this review could provide the foundation for further clinical trials to be conducted, to develop new anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cinnamomum iners Reinw. ex Blume has long been recognized as a plant with food and medicinal uses. This study was designed to optimize the MAE process to produce a high-value, polyphenol-rich crude extract from cinnamon leaves (PCL). The primary goal was to apply response surface methodology (RSM) with a face-centered central composite design (FCCD) to identify the ideal conditions for microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Key factors such as the MAE time, microwave power, and solid-to-liquid ratio were examined to produce a polyphenol-rich crude extract from C. iners leaves. The resulting extracts were assessed for extraction yield, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity. The results showed that MAE using a methanol solvent had a significant impact on antioxidant compound levels. The R2 values for all responses, yield, TPC, TFC, and DPPH radical scavenging activity were 0.9497, 0.9494, 0.9199, and 0.9570, respectively, indicating that the developed quadratic polynomial models were accurate and suitable for analyzing MAE parameter interactions. The optimum MAE parameters were determined to be an MAE time of 25 min, microwave power of 214.24 W, and plant leaf–solvent ratio of 1:195.76 g/mL. In these optimized MAE conditions, the predicted extraction yield, TPC, TFC, and IC50 of DPPH scavenging were 18.56%, 22.86 mg GAE/g, 13.89 mg QE/g, and 83.30 µg/mL, respectively. The enhanced efficiency of MAE comes from microwave-induced heating, which disrupts cell walls for faster compound release, making it more effective and time-efficient than traditional HRE for polyphenol extraction. This study demonstrated that polyphenols can be efficiently extracted from C. iners using MAE, producing a valuable extract with potential as a natural preservative in food and a skin-protective, anti-aging ingredient in cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a valuable medicinal plant that is widely used in pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and hygiene industries due to the various products it contains in the form of extracts and powders. Non-destructive and rapid methods for assessing food quality are of interest to industries and research. In the present study, garlic powder was determined by spectrometry in the range of 936 to 1660 nm and chemometric techniques. For this purpose, 120 spectra were recorded from the prepared samples of garlic powders during the storage period of 3, 90, and 360 days. The effects of SNV, MSC, D1+SG, and D2+SG preprocessing methods on the performance of ANN, SVM, and KNN classifiers were investigated. The principal component analysis (PCA) technique was used to reduce the spectral variables, and the first 4 principal components (PCs) were considered as the input of the models. The D1+SG preprocessing showed the greatest effect on the identification of the spectra of the garlic powder samples. Results showed that the highest classification accuracy of 96.88% was achieved in all the three classifiers. The results of the present study confirm the feasibility of using the near-infrared (NIR) technique and chemometrics for the rapid identification of the freshness of garlic powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, the industrial world has encountered the problem of obesity which can be a risk factor for diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. Various strategies have been proposed for the management of obesity, one of which includes the utilization of medicinal plants. This study examines the impact of hydroalcoholic extract from Persian shallots on the adipogenesis of the 3T3-L1 cell line. The cell viability of Persian shallot extract was evaluated using the MTT assay following treatment with various concentrations of the extract, with assessments conducted at 24-hour and 48-hour intervals. The lipid content of the cells was evaluated through Oil-Red O staining, in conjunction with quantitative real-time PCR analysis to assess the expression of the PPARγ gene. The results from the MTT test indicated that concentrations below 250 µg/ml maintain cell viability levels exceeding 70%. However, the concentration of 125 µg/ml was also employed in this context. Upon reaching 80% confluency, the cells are treated with a differentiation medium for two days. The subsequent step involved transitioning to an expansion medium for six days. The expansion medium was refreshed every 48 hours during this period. During the differentiation process on Day 8, we observed the presence of lipid droplets that had accumulated. In the Oil-Red O staining analysis, our observations indicated a significant reduction in the lipid content of mature adipocytes treated with 125 µg/ml compared to the control group of mature adipocytes. The gene expression analysis revealed a significant decrease in PPARγ expression on the eighth day of differentiation, with a reduction of 77% compared to the control group (P value = 0.028). These findings indicate that Persian shallot may represent a viable treatment option for managing obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2022 to February 2023 in Ticho District, Arsi Zone, Ethiopia. An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants was conducted to document and investigate medicinal plants used to treat human and livestock ailments before people's knowledge of traditional medicinal plant use vanishes. Ethnobotanical data was collected using semi-structured interviews, field observation, group discussion, guided field work, and market surveys. In this study, 82 informants participated in collecting ethnobotanical. Descriptive statistics and other ethnobotanical indices such as preference ranking, informant consensus, and direct matrix ranking were employed to quantify and analyze the collected data. The study revealed that 78 medicinal plant species belonging to 77 genera and 47 families were identified to treat human and livestock ailments. The highest number of medicinal plant species has contributed by Family Fabaceae 7 (9%). Most of these plants, 64 (81%) were used to treat human ailments followed by 12(15.2%) were used to treat livestock ailments alone. Most medicinal plants of species 48 (61.5%) were collected from the wild. Herbs constituted the largest growth form 28 species (35.9%) followed by shrubs 25 species (32%). The leaf was the most commonly used plant part, accounting for 38 (48.6%), followed by root 14 (17.95%), and bark. Oral administration was the more common route (61.5%), followed by the topical route (32%). The analysis of direct matrix ranking showed that Ficus sycomorus and Podocarpus falcatus are the most widely used multi-purpose plant species by the local community. It is possible to conclude that plants are still valued for their medicinal uses in the Ticho district, and the local community has rich indigenous knowledge of herbal medicinal plant uses. However, the availability of medicinal plants is at risk due to various activities such as agricultural expansion, construction use, firewood production, and charcoal production. Therefore, the concerned body should apply in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies for the sustainable use of herbal resources and to prevent species from extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is a regulator that mediates the biosynthesis of secondary metabolism compounds. Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation of plant growth, hormone signaling, and stress response. To explore the possible role of miRNAs in regulating the MeJA signaling pathway, here we investigated the effects of MeJA treatment on the expression of candidate miRNAs and their targets in Trachyspermum ammi. The study aimed to reveal the function of miR166 and miR166 in the controlled pathway of MeJA. To achieve our goal, two MeJA levels (0 and 100 mM) were conducted at four-point times (0, 6, 12, and 24 h). The findings elucidated that pri-miR160 and pri-miR166 have increased in response to MeJA. This suggested that pri-miR160 and pri-miR166 are relevant to hormone transmission. This study suggested that monitoring microRNA expression in response to MeJA plays a significant role in T. ammi and highlights the co-expression regulatory networks on the miR160/166 target genes in coordinating growth with environmental factors. However, to better understand how the response MeJA is regulated by microRNAs, further analysis of JA pathway biosynthesis and signaling events is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade, there has been a surge in interest regarding the cultivation of medicinal plants. Controlled environment farming methods, particularly soilless techniques, have emerged as effective alternatives to enhance production and water efficiency sustainably. This study aims to assess the morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics and antioxidant capacity of lemongrass cultivated in soilless conditions in comparison to traditional soil-based cultivation, as well as comparisons of various harvesting times (two harvests). Results revealed notable distinctions in various parameters between the two cultivation methods and harvest times. Chlorophyll a, b, carotenoid, relative water content (RWC), plant height, leaf number, as well as fresh and dry weights exhibited higher values in soilless-grown plants, particularly during the second harvest. The biomass or dry matter generated in soilless cultivation exhibited a 25% increase during the initial harvest and a 27% augmentation in the second harvest in comparison to soil-based cultivation. Conversely, soilgrown plants displayed elevated levels of phenols, flavonoids, antioxidant activity, ion leakage and proline, especially during the second harvest compared to the first harvest, increased (25%, 26%, 12%, and 32%) respectively and the total chlorophyll in soilless cultivation compared to soil cultivation in the first and second harvest was observed to increase by 1.01 and 1.05 times, respectively. The highest content of essential oil (3.03%) was observed in soil cultivation and first harvest. This study contributes valuable insights into the optimization of lemongrass cultivation and time harvesting, emphasizing the advantages of soilless techniques in enhancing key morpho-physiological attributes and antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective compounds in medicinal plants include alkaloids, glycosides, volatile oils (essential oils) and other effective compounds (bitter compounds, flavones, flavonoids, mucilages, vitamins, tannins, salicylic acid). The use of these metabolites is considered as one of the new methods of controlling, preventing or treating plant diseases. Plant extracts and essential oils have antifungal and antibacterial effects and so far no microbial resistance has been reported against them. In this article, the antifungal properties of different concentrations of extracts and essential oils was reviewed, analyzed and discussed. The authors searched the main related keywords of medicinal plants in main biological data centers e.g. Science Direct, PubMed and Google Scholar and then the articles classified and only the valid full papers about inhibitory effects of medicinal plants on plant pathogens were discussed. The importance of medicinal plants in controlling plant pathogenic agents is due to the presence of compounds and their effective substances under the title of secondary metabolites such as terpenes, phenolic compounds, and nitrogenous (alkaloids, morphine, codeine and nicotine) compounds can inhibit the growth of plant pathogens. Different studies have proven the role of the active ingredients of medicinal plants in controlling of plant pathogens and several extracts and oil essential of medicinal plants with effective active ingredients were used in controlling various plant pathogens. According to the results of different researches, the use of extracts and oil essential of medicinal plant to inhibit the growth of plant pathogens and plant diseases can be recommended. Considering the abundance and diversity of medicinal plants in Iran, further studies on the effects of the active ingredients of native medicinal plants in controlling a wider range of plant pathogenic agents are suggested in order to obtain plant-based pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants comprise a spectrum of constituents, encompassing both organic and inorganic elements. Elemental composition of 27 species of medicinal plants of Lamiaceae (including 17 endemic) family grown in Turkey was carried out by ICP-MS. The following elements were determined in analysed samples: Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Sc, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn, As, Rb, Sr, Cs, Ba, La, Ce, Sm, U, Se. Quantitative analysis of specific primary and secondary metabolites was carried out. Na and K are major constituents in plants. The concentrations of Na range from 332,495.590 g/kg (in sample 10SA) to 279,690.674 g/kg (in sample 4SA), while those of K vary from 67,492.456 g/kg (in sample 15SA) to 3347.612 g/kg (in sample 1A). Some metals such as Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Cs, and Ba were also detected. Flavonoids, carbohydrates and tannins were present in all sample. Saponins were found in all samples except 1C and 2O. Coumarin were detected in samples 2N, 1 T, 1O, 1Z, 3SA, 1C, 4SA, 6SA, 8SA, 1 M, 11SA, 13SA, 2O, 14SA, 1H, and 16SI. Lipids were present in samples 6S, 9S, 1A, 10S, 1 M, 11SA, 12SA, 13SA, 14SA, and 16SI. Plants contain essential, rare earth, and trace elements at mg/kg concentrations, while major elements such as K and Na are present in high levels. Toxic element As (arsenic) was detected in all analyzed plants, but in most samples, its concentration was below the threshold set by World Health Organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to document the medicinal uses of the plants in Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, India. The ethnobotanical results contain quantitative information on medicinal plants diversity documented for the first time in the area. The information was collected through semi-structured interview and personal observations. Results were analysed using quantitative indices of frequency citation, relative frequency citation (RFC), fidelity level, use value, and Jaccard index. In the total of 37 leafy vegetable species belonging to 30 genera and 19 families were reported for the medicinal purposes. Leguminosae (Fabaceae) was found to be dominant family in terms of species in the area with six species. The whole plant and leaves were noted most frequently use plants was the most commonly used preparation method. These species are utilised for treating 51 types of human ailments. Highest use value was reported for the Moringa oleifera Lam (0.80), while highest RFC value was calculated for Moringa oleifera Lam. (0.48), and Allium cepa L. (0.4). Highest fidelity level was calculated for Amaranthus viridis L., Moringa oleifera Lam., Allium cepa L., and these plants are still commonly used for medicinal purposes among the people in their daily lives. However, there is a gradual loss of traditional knowledge about these plants in new generation. This study provides basis for the conservation of the local flora, its use as food and medicine. It is also provides socio-economic dimensions associated with the common peoples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inherent natural antioxidants found in numerous medicinal plants (MPs) play a crucial role in counteracting the detrimental impacts of oxidative stress. MPs contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which serve as scavengers for free radicals, mitigating oxidative stress and offering potential as alternative treatments for a range of human ailments. The significance of this study lies in its chromatographic spectrum identification, providing a in-depth exploration of the antioxidant capacities and toxicological profiles within the genetic resources of Argyrolobium arabicum. This study described the chromatographic, spectroscopic, antioxidant and hepatoprotective actions of A. arabicum leaves collected from arid zones of Saudi Arabia. Argyrolobium arabicum chromatographic separations of bioactive compounds (HPLC detection isolate prominent compounds D-Pinitol and vitexin) and GC–MS spectra identified five phenolics and six flavonoids organic compounds. FT-IR spectroscopy revealed prominent functional group of alcohols and carboxylic acids bonds stretching. The hepatic toxicity and protective effects were notably administrated of A. arabicum extracts at a dosage of 300 mg/kg, leading to the restoration of ALT levels to 51 (U/L), AST levels to 71.6 (U/L), ALP levels to 169 U/L, and total bilirubin levels to 0.58 (g/dL), which had been altered by the negative control. This research basically contributing to the understanding of medicinally important A. arabicum potential applications in pharmaceutical and environmental fields and used as to elucidate the complex genomic mechanisms explaining the bioactivity and safety of medicinal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, botanicals and associated by-products often provide income that is recognized as an important contributor to livelihoods particularly in rural areas. However, limited data currently exists on the impact of commercializing medicinal plants on livelihoods. Using a dataset collected from 101 indigenous knowledge holders (IKHs) with interest in childhood diseases, we assessed the factors influencing their decisions to commercialize medicinal plants, and how the commercialization impacts livelihood outcomes measured by net returns and per capita total expenditure. We used the Propensity Score Matching as the analytical technique to correct for endogeneity bias resulting from the observed characteristics. The results revealed that commercializing medicinal plants significantly increased net returns and per capital total expenditure by 3.60% and 1.42%, respectively. Furthermore, factors such as age, education, access to water and membership of association significantly influenced the decision of IKHs to commercialize medicinal plants. Policy efforts that seek to provide support for formal and vocational training, access to irrigation technology and participation in farmer groups, particularly among the experienced IKHs may encourage the commercialization of medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrobium officinale (DO) is a well-known medicinal and edible plant, yet its impact on the quality of noodles has been infrequently reported. In this study, DO was incorporated into multi-grain flour in varying proportions (0, 2, 4, 6, 8%) to prepare noodles, and their quality was assessed. The percentage increase in DO decreased the cooking loss, whiteness, appearance, and taste of the noodles while simultaneously enhancing their water absorption, adhesiveness, smoothness, and starch digestion resistance. Lower supplemental levels of DO (2–4%) facilitated the water absorption of protein and the formation of a dense and extensive protein network surrounding the partially gelatinized starch, which was characterized by higher relative crystallinity. The highest sensory score (77.4) and greatest content of slowly digestible starch content (38%) were observed in the noodles containing 4% DO. Conversely, higher percentages of DO (6–8%) diluted and compromised the protein network in the cooked noodles, leading to water migration from protein to starch. The excessive polysaccharides from DO tended to complex with fully gelatinized starch, promoting starch aggregation and interactions between starch and non-starch components. This ultimately resulted in the highest adhesiveness and resistant starch content (34%) in the cooked noodles with 8% DO. These findings provide a reference for enhancing noodle quality by regulating the amount of DO added, thereby promoting the application of DO in cereal-based food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A noteworthy group of culinary and medicinal plants is Polygonatum species. They are known for their abundant flavonoid compound-rich rhizomes, which have antioxidative and anticancer activities. Using Polygonatum sibiricum Red (SXHZ) and Polygonatum kingianum var. grandifolium (HBES), we conducted transcriptome and metabolomic investigations to look into the molecular processes that control the manufacture of these flavonoids in Polygonatum plants. Seven distinct flavonoid metabolites were identified by the analytical data, with phloretin exhibiting a notable differential expression in the biosynthetic pathway. 30 genes with differential expression were found in both plants after further investigation, five of which are members of the transcription factor family associated with MBW. Thus, we suggest that Phloretin and the genes belonging to the MYB-related transcription factor family play a crucial role in controlling the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway in Polygonatum. This work lays the groundwork for a deeper comprehension of the biosynthesis and metabolic processes of flavonoids in Polygonatum, serving as an invaluable resource for the development of the polygonatum-related pharmaceutical industries as well as for the future breeding of Polygonatum plants with higher flavonoid content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Syzygium guineense (Wild.) DC. is a wild indigenous tree widely used as a traditional medicine for various human ailments in Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was to quantify total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) contents and determine the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of various solvent extracts of the bark of the plant. Methods: The TPC and TFC were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. The 2, 2-diphenyl-1–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, ferric-reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant activities. Antibacterial properties were determined using the disc-diffusion and broth dilution assays. Results: The ethanol extract of the bark was found to have high TPC (37.80 ± 3.70 mgGAE/g) and TFC (19.22 ± 1.44 mgQE/g). Similarly, the ethanol extract showed stronger DPPH scavenging activity (EC50 = 5.62 μg/mL). The ferric-reducing power and total antioxidant capacity were also strong (163.08±11.67 mgAAE/g and 143.72±2.86 mgBHTE/g of dried extract of 1 mg/mL, respectively). The lowest MIC was observed in acetone extract against S. aureus (1.56 mg/mL) and in ethanol extract against K. pneumoniae (1.56 mg/mL). Conclusion: The ethanol extract of the bark of S. guineense possesses high TPC and TFC. In addition, it showed strong ferric-reducing power and total antioxidant capacity, asserting high antioxidant content. The extracts have shown antibacterial activities against both Gram-positive (S. aureus) and Gram-negative bacterial species. Thus, further in-depth investigations may warrant the isolation of powerful antioxidants and potent antimicrobial agents from the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Pseudostellaria heterophylla, known for its significant bioactive ingredients, offers potential health benefits. Amounts of bioactive compounds of the tuberous root of cultivated Pseudostellaria heterophylla are sensitive to environmental conditions. We selected 22 sampling sites in Guizhou Province, China, a primary Pseudostellaria heterophylla planting area. We analyzed polysaccharides, water‐soluble extractives, total ash and inorganic elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, Mg and Ca) in Radix Pseudostellariae, and pH, organic carbon (OC), available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK) and inorganic elements in the soil. RESULTS: Our study revealed a substantial presence of polysaccharides (85.00–181.00 mg g−1), water‐soluble extractives (47.52–57.63%) and total ash (1.87–3.39%) in Radix Pseudostellariae. Polysaccharides and total ash showed no sensitivity to soil pH. Radix Pseudostellariae collected from soil with pH > 7 exhibited slightly higher levels of water‐soluble extractives, Mg and Ca than that from soil with pH < 5. Conversely, soil with a pH less than 5 had higher OC, AN, AP and AK contents. Water‐soluble extractives in Radix Pseudostellariae were negatively correlated with soil pH but positively correlated with OC and AN. CONCLUSION: The results imply that the sequestration of soil nutrients over long‐term Pseudostellaria heterophylla cultivation could negatively impact the accumulation of some bioactive ingredients in Radix Pseudostellariae. This study has a profound implication for enhancing the quality of Radix Pseudostellariae of artificially cultivated Pseudostellaria heterophylla. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tendon-bone interface, known as the tenosynovial union or attachment, can be easily damaged by excessive exercise or trauma. Tendon-bone healing is a significant research topic in orthopedics, encompassing various aspects of sports injuries and postoperative recovery. Surgery is the most common treatment; however, it has limited efficacy in promoting tendon-bone healing and carries a risk of postoperative recurrence, necessitating the search for more effective treatments. Recently, plant-active ingredients such as tanshinone IIA, astragaloside, ginsenoside Rb1, and resveratrol have garnered significant attention due to their unique advantages in promoting tendon-bone healing. This review outlines the various mechanisms and research progress of these four plant-active ingredients, as well as compound ingredients, in promoting tendon-bone healing. For instance, tanshinone IIA significantly accelerates the healing rate and improves healing quality through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cell proliferation-promoting mechanisms. Astragaloside expedites tendon-bone healing and enhances the mechanical strength of healing tissues primarily through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunoregulatory effects. Ginsenoside Rb1 enhances local blood supply and facilitates tendon-bone tissue repair through angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant pathways. Resveratrol protects cellular function and accelerates tissue healing due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, the mechanisms and progress of certain Chinese herbal compound components in tendon-bone healing are outlined. This review concludes that these four plant-active ingredients and herbal compound components promote tendon-bone healing through various mechanisms. The efficacy mechanisms and research progress of these plant-active ingredients are summarized to provide references for clinical treatment and related research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous hypertrophic scar is a fibro-proliferative hard-curing disease. Recent studies have proved that antagonists of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and agonists of type 2 receptor (AT2R) were able to relieve hypertrophic scar. Therefore, establishing new methods to pursue dual-target lead compounds from Chinese herbs is in much demand for treating scar. Methods: To this end, we immobilized AT1R or AT2R onto the surface of silica gel from cell lysates through a specific covalent bond by bioorthogonal chemistry. The columns containing immobilized AT1R or AT2R were jointly utilized to pursue potential bioactive compounds simultaneously binding to AT1R and AT2R from the extract of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma. Their functions on AT1R and AT2R expressions were investigated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Results: Aloe-emodin and emodin were identified as the potential bioactive compounds binding to both of the two receptors, thereby improving the appearance and pathomorphology of hypertrophic scar. They blocked the AT1R pathway to down-regulate the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and stimulate matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression. As such, the expression of collagen I/III reduced. Conversely, the bindings of the two compounds to AT2R reduced the production of nuclear factor-кB1 (NF-кB1), whereby the generation of interleukin-6 (IL-6) was blocked. Conclusion: We reasoned that aloe-emodin and emodin had the potential to become dual-target candidates against hypertrophic scar through the regulation of AT1R and AT2R signaling pathways. It showed considerable potential to become a universal strategy for pursuing multi-target bioactive compounds from Chinese herbs by the utilization of diverse immobilized receptors in a desired order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most species-rich regions in the world and a key center for the origin and diversity of numerous plant species. Ethnobotanical research is essential for exploring these diverse biological resources for medicinal uses. This study aimed to record the traditional knowledge of the tribal communities in Himachal Pradesh concerning the use of medicinal plants for treating diseases in humans and livestock. Despite this richness, there is a lack of detailed documentation about the use of therapeutic plants in this area. The indigenous communities in this region rely on traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, making it a valuable resource for further pharmacological and phytochemical research. The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted from August 2022 to July 2023, and our fieldwork took place in four districts (Kullu (1279 m), Mandi (760 m), Hamirpur (780 m) and Kangra (1200–1300 m) under various villages. The ethnobiological data was gathered through field surveys, open interviews, discussions, and semi-structured questionnaires conducted with 193 tribal participants aged 40 to 80 years. Informants were chosen using the randomized household interview and snowball sampling methods. The study documented 64 plants from 39 families, among which 58 species are angiosperms, 5 species are pteridophytes and one species is bryophyte utilized for therapeutic purposes. Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Ranunculaceae were the most used medicinal herb families. Rubus ellipticus (0.75) and Trillium govanianum (0.74) demonstrated the highest UV (Use value) values. The ICF (Informant Consensus factor) value revealed that nervous system disorders-related ailments were the most treated. This study explored the ethnobiological information of therapeutic flora from riparian vegetation within tribal communities while also assessing the present state of research and the practical application of their medicinal information. It underscores the potential for additional research to delve deeper into the indigenous properties of their therapeutic floras and emphasizes the importance of preserving their traditional medicinal wisdom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ethnobiological studies at local scales have shown that knowledge of medicinal species tends to decrease as socioeconomic status and the extent of human-modified landscapes increase. However, it remains largely unknown whether these same factors can predict knowledge of useful species at broader scales and whether their interaction might create scenarios that enhance knowledge of medicinal species. Methods: To address this, we tested whether knowledge of woody medicinal species—measured as the number of species known—is influenced by socioeconomic status, human-modified landscapes, and their interaction. We compiled and curated data on woody medicinal species from a systematic review encompassing diverse communities across the Caatinga region in North-east Brazil. Using the locations of these communities, we extracted data on socioeconomic status (measured by the Human Development Index, HDI) and human-modified landscapes (quantified as the percentage of forest loss). Results: Our results indicate that forest loss reduces the knowledge of medicinal woody species among Indigenous People and Local Communities. The interaction between human-modified landscapes and socioeconomic status revealed a significant nonlinear relationship, with different combinations yielding varying levels of knowledge about woody medicinal species. Interestingly, socioeconomic status alone does not appear to influence this knowledge. These findings underscore that the processes shaping knowledge of medicinal species differ across scales and suggest the existence of yet unidentified emergent properties that influence medicinal species knowledge at broader scales. Conclusion: The conversion of habitats for anthropogenic use poses a significant risk to the well-being of these populations, as it reduces the availability of species used for prophylactic purposes. In contrast, the cultural traditions of Indigenous People and Local Communities, along with the implementation of regional public policies, may explain why socioeconomic status does not affect local knowledge. Moreover, our study highlights that the processes influencing knowledge of medicinal species at broader scales are not simply the aggregation of local-scale observations. Finally, we propose strategies to advance the field of macroethnobiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a survey of saprobic fungi on medicinal plants in Southwestern China, thirty-nine hyphomycetous collections belonging to Dictyosporiaceae, Melanommataceae, and Stachybotryaceae were identified, representing nineteen distinct species. These taxa were characterised and identified based on morphological and culture characteristics, coupled with phylogenetic analyses of combined sequences of calmodulin (cmdA), the internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA (LSU), RNA polymerase second-largest subunit (rpb2), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), and β-tubulin (tub2). Twelve novel species are described, including Camposporium alangii, C. polygoni, Dendryphiella verrucosispora, Jalapriya cheirospora, Memnoniella cnidiicola, M. guttulatispora, M. reniformis, M. reynoutriae, M. verrucosispora, Sirastachys aspidistrae, Sir. ellipsoidispora, and Striatibotrys biguttulatispora. Additionally, three new host records, M. alishanensis, Sir. castanedae, and Stachybotrys chartarum, and four new hosts and geographical records of M. ellipsoidea, M. pseudonilagirica, Str. rhabdospora, and Virgatospora echinofibrosa are reported. Memnoniella nilagirica is revised and synonymised under M. pseudonilagirica. Key morphological characteristics, hosts specificity, and distributional data of Memnoniella, Sirastachys, and Striatibotrys were summarised. This study provides comprehensive illustrations, descriptions, and notes for each new taxon and record, marking the first report of these species from medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Phytolacca acinosa is an herbaceous herb belonging to the Phytolaccaceae family. The plant has a long history of usage in traditional medicine for treating a variety of ailments including infectious diseases, edema, inflammation, gastric, and abdominal distress. The traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of Phytolacca acinosa are outlined in this article. Main text: To date, few bioactive molecules have been identified and isolated from the plant, such as phytolacacinoside A, esculentoside H, jaligonic acid and esculentoside B, phytolaccanol and epiacetyl aleuritolic acid, esculentoside A, esculentoside C, esculentoside D, esculentoside T, esculentoside S, sitosterol. The literature related some of the reported ethnomedicinal uses of the plant to these compounds found in different parts of the plant. Conclusion: The in-depth knowledge about the significance of Phytolacca acinosa presented in this review may open up opportunities for research development in drug discovery and a better comprehension of the therapeutic advantages of the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder associated with increased risk of kidney and liver damage. Current treatments have shown contradictory outcomes, and their long-term use causes unwanted side effects. G. tournefortii could serve as a complementary medicine to current PCOS treatments. Purpose: This study evaluates the effect of G. tournefortii in alleviating liver and kidney damage induced by PCOS via the regulation of oxidative stress pathways. Study Design: PCOS was induced in female Balb/c mice using dehydroepiandrosterone over 21 days. They included a Sham group, a Vehicle group, a group treated with the extract only, and an untreated PCOS mice group. Positive Controls were treated with Metformin. The other PCOS groups were either co-treated while inducing PCOS or treated with the extract post-disease induction. Methods: Histological analysis was performed. Serum liver and kidney biochemical markers, levels of oxidative stress, and two pro-inflammatory markers were measured. NLRP3 and its associated genes (caspase-1 and ASC) gene expression was assessed. Results: The extract restored normal kidney and liver histology post-PCOS induction. It decreased ALT and AST levels by 50% and the oxidant marker malondialdehyde (MDA) by 65% (P <.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD)/catalase (CAT) activities were normalized in PCOS treated group. IL-1β/TNF-α significantly decreased (80% and 68%, respectively, P <.05) in the post-treated group. NLRP3 genes decreased in kidney tissues post-treatment with G. tournefortii extract. Conclusion: G. tournefortii reduced oxidative stress by modifying the ASC/caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathway, thus protecting livers and kidneys highlighting the herb as a potential preventative and complementary agent in mitigating PCOS associated damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asparagus cochinchinensis is a medicinal plant in China, which has gained attention owing its protective effect in human health. However, there are seldom studies to systematically reveal the rhizosphere bacterial community of A. cochinchinensis. In this study, we employed metagenomics and culturomics to analyze the bacterial community composition and diversity in continuous rhizosphere soil of A. cochinchinensis. Meanwhile, we assessed the effect of soil physicochemical properties on the bacterial community. Results showed that the most abundant TAXA is a taxon belonging to the family Streptomycetaceae, the genus Mycobacterium and the species Oligotropha carboxidovorans. The bacterial communities across various areas were similar. Significant differences of exchangeable magnesium and available phosphorus level were observed between three groups. Furthermore, bacterial community structure correlated closely with soil physicochemical properties. Additionally, a total of 103 strains were isolated and identified, representing 28 species. Based on this study, the rhizosphere bacterial community of A. cochinchinensis might influence its growth and development. The rhizosphere strains were isolated and their function request further investigation. This study firstly revealed the bacterial community in the A. cochinchinensis rhizosphere soil, providing valuable references for its quality improvement in practical cultivation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hexaflumuron (HFM), a common pesticide, can disrupt the immune system and cause oxidative stress. This study investigated the potential of Physalis peruviana L. calyces extract (PP) to counteract these effects in rats. Methods: Rats were divided into 6 groups including control, PP-treated, HFM-exposed, and co-treated (HFM + PP) groups. Immune function, antioxidant activity, and organ damage were assessed. Furthermore, UPLC-MS/MS analysis identified potential bioactive compounds in PP extract. Results: HFM exposure suppressed immune responses and caused organ damage. Notably, the co-administration of PP extract with HFM reversed these effects, indicating its ability to reduce oxidative stress and protect the immune system. UPLC-MS/MS analysis of PP calyces ethanolic extract revealed its richness in various health-promoting metabolites, including acyl sucrose sugar, withanolides, and flavonoids, which may provide valuable insight into the underlying mechanisms of PP's calyces protective effects against HFM toxicity. Conclusions: This study provides novel insights into the potential of P. peruviana L. calyces ethanolic extract as a natural agent to counteract the harmful effects of HFM exposure. These findings have significant implications for developing effective strategies to mitigate pesticide-induced toxicity and promote human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rubiaceae plants are globally widespread and possess significant economic and medicinal value. Such as the globally important crop of coffee, and Cinchona calisaya Wedd., which is rich in alkaloids, is an important medicinal resource for treating malaria. In recent years, several genome resources of Rubiaceae have been reported. However, the comprehensive phylogenetic relationships of Rubiaceae are still unknown. In this study, we present a nearly complete diploid genome assembly of C. calisaya, characterized by a genome size of 869.93 Mb, and contig N50 length of 44.34 Mb. Notably, 99.75% of the sequences have been successfully anchored to 17 chromosomes, with only 12 gaps remaining. BUSCO assessment indicates that 97.40% of complete core genes are present in the assembly. We identified a total of 42,741 protein-coding genes, among which 38,022 (89.00%) have received functional annotation. The high continuity and integrity of the C. calisaya genome provide a robust foundation for functional genomics research, varietal improvement, and the conservation of genomic resources in medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an efficient gene editing tool, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been widely employed to investigate and regulate the biosynthetic pathways of active ingredients in medicinal plants. CRISPR technology holds significant potential for enhancing both the yield and quality of active ingredients in medicinal plants. By precisely regulating the expression of key enzymes and transcription factors, CRISPR technology not only deepens our understanding of secondary metabolic pathways in medicinal plants but also opens new avenues for drug development and the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine. This article introduces the principles of CRISPR technology and its efficacy in gene editing, followed by a detailed discussion of its applications in the secondary metabolism of medicinal plants. This includes an examination of the composition of active ingredients and the implementation of CRISPR strategies within metabolic pathways, as well as the influence of Cas9 protein variants and advanced CRISPR systems in the field. In addition, this article examines the long-term impact of CRISPR technology on the progress of medicinal plant research and development. It also raises existing issues in research, including off-target effects, complexity of genome structure, low transformation efficiency, and insufficient understanding of metabolic pathways. At the same time, this article puts forward some insights in order to provide new ideas for the subsequent application of CRISPR in medicinal plants. In summary, CRISPR technology presents broad application prospects in the study of secondary metabolism in medicinal plants and is poised to facilitate further advancements in biomedicine and agricultural science. As technological advancements continue and challenges are progressively addressed, CRISPR technology is expected to play an increasingly vital role in the research of active ingredients in medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractColebrookea oppositifolia (Lamiaceae) is a valuable traditional therapeutic plant with a wool-like shrubby appearance, present mostly in subtropical regions of some Asian countries. This plant possesses anti-oxidant, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. Its leaves are used locally for the treatment of wounds and fracture and its roots are used for epilepsy. During phytopathogenic surveys conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, the rust fungus Olivea colebrookeae (Raveneliaceae, Pucciniales) was collected on this economically important plant. Based on morpho-anatomical characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses, it was determined that Olivea colebrookeae is related to the teak-rust genus Neoolivea, now placed in the Crossopsoraceae, Pucciniales. Thus, this rust fungus on Colebrookea oppositifolia is transferred to Neoolivea as Neoolivea colebrookeae and reported for the first time from Pakistan. Detailed morphology along with scanning electron micrographs are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laji-He is a traditional rice-based snack from the Beibu Gulf region in southern China. In the Beibu Gulf region, "Laji-He" (literally "garbage He") signifies the removal of toxins from the body, making it a truly "green" food. Laji-He holds essential cultural and medicinal value, incorporating various medicinal plants into its preparation. Despite its local importance, there is limited scientific documentation on the ethnobotanical properties and cultural relevance of the plants used. This study aims to analyze the medicinal plant used in Laji-He and its implication in human medicine. Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys and interviews were conducted in the Beibu Gulf region, covering local markets and communities. Voucher specimens were collected and identified for each plant collected, using botanical references, while the relative frequency of citation index was used to assess the cultural importance of each plant. Additionally, the medicinal properties of these plants were categorized based on traditional Chinese medicinal theory and modern pharmacological literature. A detailed review of historical texts and local chronicles was also performed to trace the historical development and cultural changes of Laji-He. Results: A total of 63 medicinal plants from 36 families and 53 genera were documented, with Rubiaceae, Fabaceae, and Lamiaceae being the most frequently represented families. The most commonly used plants, such as Paederia foetida, Piper sarmentosum, Houttuynia cordata, Centella asiatica, and Morus alba, were primarily utilized for their heat-clearing, detoxifying, and wind-dampness expelling properties. Laji-He serves as a symbol of cultural identity and community cohesion, particularly during traditional festivals and family gatherings, reinforcing collective memory and local heritage. Conclusions: Laji-He is a traditional functional snack, with the plants used in its preparation serving as both food and medicine. Preserving and promoting the culture of Laji-He can contribute to enhancing food security and sovereignty at both the local and national levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Amsonia, a member of the Apocynaceae family, comprises plants with notable medicinal benefits. In 2022 and 2023, Amsonia tabernaemontana Walt. seeds introduced to Bulgaria were collected and analyzed. Given the limited information available on the chemical composition of A. tabernaemontana, this study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical profile of the plant seeds collected over two consecutive years. Although members of the genus Amsonia are not conventional oilseed crops, the glyceride oil content was 7.8% and 11.1% in the respective samples. The chemical composition was meticulously analyzed, revealing carbohydrates in the largest amounts (60.4% and 61.3%), with crude fibers at 18.3% and 24.8%, and protein content at 19.5% and 13.0%. The amounts of ash and moisture content were also quantified. Additionally, the fatty acids, sterols, tocopherols, and phospholipids of the seed oil were examined. β-Sitosterol emerged as the main component in both harvests. The total tocopherol content was relatively low (52.7 mg/kg vs. 20.0 mg/kg), with α-tocopherol being predominant. Phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidylethanolamine were identified as the principal components of the phospholipid fraction. The fatty acid composition primarily included linoleic (61.0 and 61.2%) and oleic acids (28.7 and 28.6%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trifolirhizin is an important flavonoid glycoside reported from the roots of medicinal plants such as Astragalus membranaceus, Sophora tonkinensis, Ononis vaginalis, Euchresta formosana, Sophora Subprostrate, Ononis spinose, and Sophora flavescens. It is considered one of the important constituents responsible for the various medicinal properties of these medicinal plants. Studies have revealed the multiple pharmacological properties of trifolirhizin: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-ulcerative colitis, antiasthma, hepatoprotective, osteogenic, skin-whitening, wound-healing, and anticancer (against various types of cancers). Mechanistic studies of trifolirhizin showed that it could act on important target genes and pathways such as the NF-κB-MAPK, EGFR-MAPK, AMPK/mTOR, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. These pathways are also implicated in various other diseases, suggesting the potential of trifolirhizin in therapeutic applications. Initial pharmacokinetic studies support the therapeutic candidature of trifolirhizin and provide the initial track that may be pursued for its development. Still, a compilation of pharmacological activities and target pathways of trifolirhizin is missing in the literature. This review uniquely compiles the pharmacological properties and mechanistic insights of trifolirhizin, addressing critical gaps in its therapeutic development and proposing strategies for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2-phenylchromen-4-one, commonly known as flavone, plays multifaceted roles in biological response that can be abundantly present in natural sources. The methoxy group in naturally occurring flavones promotes cytotoxic activity in various cancer cell lines by targeting protein markers, in facilitating ligand–protein binding mechanisms and activating cascading downstream signaling pathways leading to cell death. However, the lipophilic nature of these analogs is a key concern as it impacts drug membrane transfer. While lipophilicity is crucial for drug efficacy, the excessive lipophilic effects in flavonoids can reduce water solubility and hinder drug transport to target sites. Recent in vitro studies suggest that the incorporation of polar hydroxyl groups which can form hydrogen bonds and stabilize free radicals may help overcome the challenges associated with methoxy groups while maintaining their essential lipophilic properties. Naturally coexisting with methoxyflavones, this review explores the synergistic role of hydroxy and methoxy moieties through hydrogen bonding capacity in maximizing cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. The physicochemical analysis revealed the potential intramolecular interaction and favorable electron delocalization region between both moieties to improve cytotoxicity levels. Together, the analysis provides a useful strategy for the structure–activity relationship (SAR) of flavonoid analogs in distinct protein markers, suggesting optimal functional group positioning to achieve balanced lipophilicity, effective hydrogen bonding, and simultaneously minimized steric hindrance in targeting specific cancer cell types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Network pharmacology plays a pivotal role in systems biology, bridging the gap between traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory and contemporary pharmacological research. Network pharmacology enables researchers to construct multilayered networks that systematically elucidate TCM's multi-component, multi-target mechanisms of action. This review summarizes key databases commonly used in network pharmacology, including those focused on herbs, components, diseases, and dedicated platforms for network pharmacology analysis. Additionally, we explore the growing use of network pharmacology in TCM, citing literature from Web of Science, PubMed, and CNKI over the past two decades with keywords like "network pharmacology", "TCM network pharmacology", and "herb network pharmacology". The application of network pharmacology in TCM is widespread, covering areas such as identifying the material basis of TCM efficacy, unraveling mechanisms of action, and evaluating toxicity, safety, and novel drug development. However, challenges remain, such as the lack of standardized data collection across databases and insufficient consideration of processed herbs in research. Questions also persist regarding the reliability of study outcomes. This review aims to offer valuable insights and reference points to guide future research in precision TCM network pharmacology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for neuroprotective compounds in lavender is driven by its traditional use for brain health, with antioxidant activity serving as a key mechanism in reducing oxidative stress and supporting cognitive function. Lavender's potential to protect neurons is based on its calming, anti-stress properties, which increase the brain's resistance to neurodegeneration. Although lavender is not a traditional medicinal plant in Ukraine, it is increasingly recognised for its medicinal properties and is widely cultivated in the country. Lavender use in Ukraine is influenced by both global herbal practices and local medical traditions. The aim of this study was to optimise the preparation of lavender herb extracts, perform chemical profiling and evaluate their antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. The study focused on Lavandula angustifolia cultivated in Lviv, Ukraine. Modern analytical methods were used, including HPLC, spectrophotometry, molecular docking, lyophilisation and pharmacological testing. The selection of the optimal conditions for obtaining lavender herb extracts was determined on the basis of the results of the total yield of phenolic compounds in each extract, where it was found that the raw material–solvent ratio (1:10) in water and 50% ethanol gave the highest yield of substances; the preferred extraction time was 20 min, and the temperature was 60–70 °C, especially for water extraction. Further HPLC analysis identified marker compounds including rosmarinic acid (28.31 mg/g), chlorogenic acid (1.64 mg/g) and luteolin (0.23 mg/g) in the lyophilised ethanol extract, which were previously recognised as neuroprotective markers by molecular docking. The water extract showed higher antioxidant (total 50.85 mg/g) and neuroprotective activity, probably due to synergistic interactions among the components. Behavioural tests further demonstrated the neuroprotective potential of lavender herb. These results demonstrate the potential neuroprotective activity of lavender herb and open new possibilities for its use in the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comprehensive phyto- and histochemical analysis of three Colchicum species: Colchicum autumnale L., the Balkan endemic Colchicum bivonae Guss., and the Bulgarian endemic Colchicum diampolis Delip. et Česchm. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), 66 metabolites were identified, encompassing free amino, organic, phenolic, and fatty acids, sugars, and alkaloids, which were distributed among various plant parts. Organ-specific metabolic patterns revealed that corms and seeds are particularly rich in alkaloids, supporting their roles in chemical defense and survival during dormancy. Conversely, flowers, leaves, and capsules were enriched with energy-related and phenolic compounds, playing critical roles in reproduction and stress tolerance. Histochemical investigations localized alkaloids predominantly in the endosperm of seeds, parenchyma of corms, and vascular bundles of flowers. Notably, the endemic C. bivonae and C. diampolis displayed unique chemical profiles. Moderate acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity (AChE) was observed across various plant organs. Statistical analyses demonstrated significant interspecies and organ-specific chemical differentiation, with certain metabolites serving as key markers. These findings enhance our understanding of the chemical composition, organ specialization, and potential as a source of new biomolecules in these Colchicum species. They underscore the ecological and pharmacological importance of endemic taxa and provide a framework for future research into their sustainable utilization and potential bioactivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]