Search

The Acorus calamus group, or sweet flag, includes important medicinal plants and is classified into three species: A. americanus (diploid), A. verus (tetraploid), and A. calamus (sterile triploid of hybrid origin). Members of the group are famous as components of traditional Indian medicine, and early researchers suggested the origin of the sweet flag in tropical Asia. Subsequent research led to an idea of the origin of the triploid A. calamus in the Amur River basin in temperate Asia, because this was the only region where both diploids and tetraploids were known to co-occur and be capable of sexual reproduction. Contrary to this hypothesis, triploids are currently very rare in the Amur basin. Here, we provide the first evidence that all three species occur in Kazakhstan. The new records extend earlier data on the range of A. verus for c. 1800 km. Along the valley of the Irtysh River in Kazakhstan and the adjacent Omsk Oblast of Russia, A. verus is recorded in the south, A. americanus in the north, and A. calamus is common in between. We propose the Irtysh River valley as another candidate for a cradle of the triploid species A. calamus. It is possible that the range of at least one parent species (A. americanus) has contracted through competition with its triploid derivative species, for which the Irtysh River floods provide a tool for downstream range expansion. We refine our earlier data and show that the two parent species have non-overlapping ranges of variation in a quantitative metric of leaf aerenchyma structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim. To determine the optimal qualitative and quantitative composition of auxiliary substances for tablets containing dry extract of Acorus calamus leaves and the solid dispersion of quercetin, their relatively therapeutic dose and antiexudative activity. Materials and methods. This study determined a relatively therapeutic dose of dry extract of Acorus calamus leaves, investigated the impact of various auxiliary substances on the properties of tablets formulated with active ingredients -- dry extract of Acorus calamus leaves and solid dispersion of quercetin, and assessed antiexudative activity these tablets. The comprehensive analysis entailed the utilization of standardized pharmacopoeial methods to evaluate the quality of the tablet samples. These methods encompassed a range of assessments designed to ensure that the tablets met the requisite pharmacological standards, focusing on key characteristics such as dissolution rate and stability. Determination of the relatively therapeutic dose and antiexudative activity made using standard pharmacological methods in laboratory rats. Results. In-depth exploration during the study led to identifying Ac-Di-Sol and Lubripharm SSF as the most suitable auxiliary substances for the tablet composition. Detailed analysis revealed that Ac-Di-Sol, when utilized at a 10 % concentration, markedly improved the tablets' disintegration rate without adversely affecting their structural integrity. Concurrently, Lubripharm SSF was observed to significantly enhance the tablets' mechanical stability by reducing their friability. Conclusions. As a result of the study, the relatively therapeutic dose of dry extract of Acorus calamus leaves, and the solid dispersion of quercetin, optimal auxiliary substances for the tablet formulation -- Ac-Di-Sol and Lubripharm SSF -- were established. The conducted research enabled the development of a tablet composition that aligns with the requisite pharmacotechnological specifications and conditions of the modern pharmaceutical industry and demonstrates high antiexudative activity relative to monocomponent substances and famous drugs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet flag (Acorus calamus L.) is an endangered, perennial wild herb known for its high medicinal properties. An efficient in vitro regeneration protocol for sweet flag was developed and the genetic fidelity was assessed across in vitro regenerants. Murashige & Skoog media fortified with different plant growth regulators (PGRs) in various concentrations and combinations were used to culture rhizome buds. For surface sterilization of explants, treatment of fungicide (0.2% Bavistin) for duration of 30 min followed by treatment with 70% ethanol for 30 s and mercuric chloride (0.1%) for 15 min was found most effective. MS solid media (0.8% agar) was found more promising than MS semisolid media (0.6% agar) in relation to explants establishment. The maximum number of shoots per explant was observed in solid MS medium supplemented with 15 µM thidiazuron (TDZ) with an average of 7.67 shoots per explants and average explant response of 60%. Shoot length response was maximum in MS containing 10 µM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) in combination with 5 µM 1-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) with an average length of 6.88 cm and percentage explant response of 80%. For root induction, MS medium containing 10 µM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) gave the maximum number of roots (6.50) and root length (3.50 cm). Plants acclimatized well with 57.14% survivability rate. Forty random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) primers were used to evaluate genetic fidelity among in vitro regenerated plants, one from each treatment and compared with mother plant. Out of them, 20 RAPD primers produced a total of 70 fragments ranging from 350-2500 bp. The amplified bands of all in vitro plant samples and mother plant were observed to be monomorphic. The results showed that the in vitro regenerated plants were genetically stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Acorus calamus group, or sweet flag, includes important medicinal plants and is classified into three species: A. americanus (diploid), A. verus (tetraploid), and A. calamus (sterile triploid of hybrid origin). Members of the group are famous as components of traditional Indian medicine, and early researchers suggested the origin of the sweet flag in tropical Asia. Subsequent research led to an idea of the origin of the triploid A. calamus in the Amur River basin in temperate Asia, because this was the only region where both diploids and tetraploids were known to co-occur and be capable of sexual reproduction. Contrary to this hypothesis, triploids are currently very rare in the Amur basin. Here, we provide the first evidence that all three species occur in Kazakhstan. The new records extend earlier data on the range of A. verus for c. 1800 km. Along the valley of the Irtysh River in Kazakhstan and the adjacent Omsk Oblast of Russia, A. verus is recorded in the south, A. americanus in the north, and A. calamus is common in between. We propose the Irtysh River valley as another candidate for a cradle of the triploid species A. calamus. It is possible that the range of at least one parent species (A. americanus) has contracted through competition with its triploid derivative species, for which the Irtysh River floods provide a tool for downstream range expansion. We refine our earlier data and show that the two parent species have non-overlapping ranges of variation in a quantitative metric of leaf aerenchyma structure.

Many plants and plant-derived products have been used in the preparation of traditional medicine to prevent and treat various diseases. Even though medicinal plants are rich sources of bioactive compounds, analysis of their composition is a prerequisite along with an evaluation of their cytotoxicity. The haemolytic test determines the ability of any compound to destroy red blood cells, leading to the release of haemoglobin. Plants Chrysopogon zizanioides and Acorus calamus have been reported to exhibit several medicinal properties. Hence this study was designed to elucidate the medicinal plant extracts by phytochemical analysis and to evaluate the haemolytic potential of methanolic extracts of the root of Chrysopogon zizanioides and rhizome of Acorus calamus, towards the human erythrocytes, using spectrophotometer. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, steroids and carbohydrates in the crude extract of both plants. From the results of this study, it is clear that the percentage of haemolysis increases with an increase in the concentration of crude extract of the root of Chrysopogon zizanioides and rhizome of Acorus calamus treatments. However, in both the treated groups, the haemolysis percentage was very less; indicating that these extracts are safe for human erythrocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The basalmost monocot genus Acorus is well-known for its use in traditional oriental medicine. It comprises the groups of A. calamus and A. gramineus. A recent study recognized three species in the latter group, A. gramineus, A. macrospadiceus, and A. tatarinowii. The material currently known as A. tatarinowii has been extensively studied as a source of various chemical compounds and for producing the first published genome of Acorus, which is important for understanding the origin and evolution of monocots. Using the data from morphology, anatomy, and biogeography, we argue that the type material of A. tatarinowii does not match the interpretation of the species name as adopted in the current literature and herbarium collections (to a taxon of the A. gramineus group from Southeast Asia) but rather belongs to the A. calamus group. Moreover, the name A. macrospadiceus also cannot be used because it was invalidly published. Under a narrow species concept, other appropriate species names should be found or proposed for the plants currently named A. tatarinowii and A. macrospadiceus. However, we discourage the use of a narrow species concept in the A. gramineus group as insufficiently justified and suggest recognizing a single polymorphic species, A. gramineus s.l., at least until a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the group is available. Apart from the presentation of our revised taxonomic framework, we update the geographical distributions of Acorus species in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The basalmost monocot genus Acorus is well-known for its use in traditional oriental medicine. It comprises the groups of A. calamus and A. gramineus. A recent study recognized three species in the latter group, A. gramineus, A. macrospadiceus, and A. tatarinowii. The material currently known as A. tatarinowii has been extensively studied as a source of various chemical compounds and for producing the first published genome of Acorus, which is important for understanding the origin and evolution of monocots. Using the data from morphology, anatomy, and biogeography, we argue that the type material of A. tatarinowii does not match the interpretation of the species name as adopted in the current literature and herbarium collections (to a taxon of the A. gramineus group from Southeast Asia) but rather belongs to the A. calamus group. Moreover, the name A. macrospadiceus also cannot be used because it was invalidly published. Under a narrow species concept, other appropriate species names should be found or proposed for the plants currently named A. tatarinowii and A. macrospadiceus. However, we discourage the use of a narrow species concept in the A. gramineus group as insufficiently justified and suggest recognizing a single polymorphic species, A. gramineus s.l., at least until a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the group is available. Apart from the presentation of our revised taxonomic framework, we update the geographical distributions of Acorus species in Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.

Mosquitoes are the important carriers of disease-causing pathogens responsible for serious health effects in humans. The vector control management mainly focuses on synthetic insecticides and their overuse creates resistance in mosquitoes. Henceforth, there is a need to develop insecticides that are effective and help in overcoming resistance development in mosquitoes. An attempt is made here to bring effective management of larval mosquitoes with herbal-based preparations since it is eco-friendly and causes no ill effects on humans. In this study, aqueous and solvent extracts of Acorus calamus leaves were tested for their anti-mosquito activity against third instar larvae of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. Among the tested extracts, the crude hexane leaf extract of A. calamus showed the highest percentage of mortality with LC50 of 151.86 ppm and LC90 of 536.36 ppm against A. aegypti and LC50 of 174.70 ppm and LC90 of 696.73 ppm against C. quinquefasciatus. The treatment showed significant changes in the larval morphology such as damaged body parts, enlarged mid-gut, and lesions on the thoracic region. Similarly, histopathological analysis of treated larvae after 24 hours of treatment was observed with dislocations of cells, augmented nucleus, and ruptured epithelial cells. GC-MS analysis of the effective crude hexane leaf extract of A. calamus showed the presence of asarone to the level of 50.18% and that could have been thought to be insecticidal in nature which is probably responsible for the effective larval anti-mosquito activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study estimates the parameters of the photosynthesis–irradiance relationship (PN/I) of a sedge-grass marsh (Czech Republic, Europe), represented as an active "green" surface—a hypothetical "big-leaf". Photosynthetic parameters of the "big-leaf" are based on in situ measurements of the leaf PN/I curves of the dominant plant species. The non-rectangular hyperbola was selected as the best model for fitting the PN/I relationships. The plant species had different parameters of this relationship. The highest light-saturated rate of photosynthesis (Asat) was recorded for Glyceria maxima and Acorus calamus followed by Carex acuta and Phalaris arundinacea. The lowest Asat was recorded for Calamagrostis canescens. The parameters of the PN/I relationship were calculated also for different growth periods. The highest Asat was calculated for the spring period followed by the summer and autumn periods. The effect of the species composition of the local plant community on the photosynthetic parameters of the "big-leaf" was addressed by introducing both real (recorded) and hypothetical species compositions corresponding to "wet" and "dry" hydrological conditions. We can conclude that the species composition (or diversity) is essential for reaching a high Asat of the "big-leaf "representing the sedge-grass marsh in different growth periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new brominated norsesquiterpene glycoside, acoruside (1), has been isolated from the rhizomes of Acorus tatarinowii Schott, together with 8 known compounds (2-9). Their structures were elucidated mainly based on 1-dimensional (1D) and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The absolute configuration of compound 1 was determined by comparing its experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism spectra. The in vitro tests indicated that at 10 μM, compounds 2, 3, and 4 aggravated serum deprivation injuries of PC12 cells, compound 2 aggravated rotenone-induced injuries of PC12 cells, and compounds 3 and 4 aggravated the oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced injuries of PC12 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results on evaluation of insecticidal activity of sweet flag, Acorus calamus (L.) emulsifiable concentrate (SFEC) impregnated jute bags against Sitophilus oryzae (L.) and Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) are reported. The bags impregnated with SFEC caused 92.16 per cent mortality of S. oryzae at 10.0 per cent on 7th d after treatment (DAT) while 65.51, 83.33, 85.54 and 86.83 per cent mortality were recorded at 2.0, 4.0, 6.0 and 8.0 per cent of sweet flag EC formulation respectively. Jute bag impregnated with SFEC formulation showed 96.60 per cent mortality to C. maculatus at 10.0 per cent on 7th DAT while 60.00, 81.30, 81.30 and 84.00 per cent mortality were recorded at 2.0, 4.0, 6.0 and 8.0 per cent of SFEC formulation, respectively. For rice weevil, there was no progeny development in treatment of T5 (10 % SFEC) and T6 (1% Malathion 50 EC) upto 90 days. For pulse beetle least number of adults (8 nos) were emerged from the treatment of T5 (10 % SFEC) and T6 (1% Malathion 50 EC) upto 30 days when compared to untreated control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insecticidal activity of sweet flag (SF) (Acorus calamus L.) rhizome extracts against the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L.) on maize during storage is reported. Different solvent extracts were obtained by two extraction methods (soxhlet and mechanical shaker). The hexane extract obtained by both the methods showed cent per cent mortality at 0.1 per cent concentration on the 5th d after treatment (DAT). The maize seed remained protected against damage by the weevil upto 90 d at 0.09 and 0.1 per cent of hexane and ethyl acetate extracts respectively obtained by mechanical shaker extraction. The hexane extracts obtained by both the extraction methods were however, found to be superior. The phytochemical composition of the solvent extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, steroid, terpenoid, glycosides, carbohydrates and protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ecological floating beds (EFBs) is one of the effective methods lately used to remove heavy metals pollutions in water. However, the role of substrate in EFBs was mainly focused on the study of microorganisms, and the effect of substrates on plants enrichment of heavy metals was rarely investigated. This study aimed to investigate the promotion of different substrates (green zeolite, sepiolite, absorbent paper, and ceramsite) on the removal of multi-heavy metals (V, Cr, and Cd) by Acorus calamus L. It also investigated the plant growth status. Results showed that the relative increase rate of Acorus calamus L. fresh weight increased the most in EFBs with green zeolite group (EFB-GZ), which was 60.50%, higher than 38.17% in EFBs with Acorus calamus L. (EFB-A). The enrichment ability of multi-metals in Acorus calamus L. was stronger in EFBs with substrates than in EFB-A, and green zeolite was the best. After 34 days, the total removal efficiency of V, Cr and Cd in EFB-GZ were 79.91%, 95.24% and 91.80%, respectively. Heavy metals translocation from root to shoot influenced by the kinds of substrates. In EFB-GZ, the translocation factor (TF) of V, Cr and Cd were 0.081, 0.263 and 0.180, respectively (0.024, 0.608 and 0.032 in EFB-A). The ability of Acorus calamus L. to resist multi-metals stress was significantly higher in EFBs with substrates than that in EFB-A and the activity of SOD, POD and CAT were increased by heavy metals stress. Our results acquired that green zeolite was the best substrate to promote multi-metals uptake by Acorus calamus L., which could effectively maintain the pH of water, provide a stable environment and nutriment for Acorus calamus L. Green zeolite can promote the translocation of V and Cd from root to shoot in Acorus calamus L. , but is not conducive to Cr. Highlights • Investigated of four substrates to promote the ability of uptake for multi-metals by Acorus calamus L. • Substrates could availably maintain pH stability of water and improve plants' resistance to low-level V, C and Cd stress. • Green zeolite could promote the transfer of V and Cd from root to shoot in Acorus calamus L., but was not conducive to Cr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diets of Indigenous people rely on food and medicinal plants harvested directly from the land and there is increasing concern from Indigenous knowledge holders over changes to the appearance and flavor of wild harvested food and medicinal plants. We collected samples of muskrat root, considered an important medicinal plant, at 11 traditional collection locations to quantify contaminants of concern. There were no spatial or temporal trends apparent and the risk via consumption was found to be very low. This study provides a "base" measure to which future samples may be compared, especially as development and other anthropogenic pressures increase. This study is also an example of how western science and Indigenous knowledge, can be merged for the benefit of both knowledge systems in what is known to Indigenous groups as etuaptmumk or 'two-eyed seeing'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commonly used hypnotics are not very effective for the management of chronic insomnia as they produce several unpleasant side effects. According to a recent report, short-term administration of 10 mg/kg α-Asarone, an active principle of Acorus species, used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for a prolonged period without any ill-effects, promoted sleep in rats. However, the efficacy of α-Asarone in promoting sleep on long-term use has not been studied. Study was conducted on four groups of rats, with electrodes implanted for recording sleep. Thermocouple and radio-transmitter were implanted for recording temperatures from hypothalamus and peritoneum. Of these, three groups of rats were sleep deprived for 5 h (9:00-14:00 h) for 21 days after drug (α-Asarone or midozolam) or vehicle administration. The anxiety levels were also studied in these rats. Another group, that received α-Asarone for 21 days, was not subjected to sleep deprivation. Long-term administration of α-Asarone improved both the quantity and quality of NREM sleep, not only in comparison to the vehicle, but also in contrast to midazolam. Moreover, there was no withdrawal effect after stopping the daily administration of α-Asarone for 3 weeks. Anxiety alleviation produced by α-Asarone was better than midazolam. α-Asarone-mediated anxiolysis, mild hypothermia, and NREM sleep-related alterations in temperatures, and its known antioxidant property, might have contributed towards the improvement in NREM sleep and maintenance of REM sleep. The study provides strong pre-clinical evidences for further research on α-Asarone as a possible treatment option for chronic insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia is associated with anxiety and memory deficits. α-Asarone, an active principle of Acorus species, which has anxiolytic and memory-restoring properties, was recently identified as a potential hypnotic with the least side effects. The current study was conducted in rats to find out whether the hypnotic dose of α-asarone can produce anxiolytic and memory restoring effects. α-Asarone (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and its vehicle were administered to rats, deprived of sleep by gentle handling for 5 h for 5 days. Spatial memory was assessed in the radial arm maze. Anxiety was tested using elevated plus maze and open field test. In addition to using the vehicle of the drug as a control, midazolam (2 mg/kg, i.p.), a known anxiolytic, was also used as a positive control. Increased anxiety levels produced after sleep deprivation were reduced after α-asarone administration. The anxiolytic effect was comparable to that produced by midazolam. Increase in the reference and working memory errors, resulting from sleep deprivation, was reduced after α-asarone injection. It also produced an improvement in the percentage of correct choices. Decreased lipid peroxidation and increased activities of catalase and glutathione reductase facilitated the improvement in cognitive functioning. α-Asarone, is not only a good therapeutic agent for insomnia and associated anxiety, it can also reduce insomnia-associated memory deficits. This is the first report on the anxiolytic and cognition enhancing property of α-asarone in sleep-deprived rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The present study explored the one step extracellular green synthesis of Iron oxide (Fe x O y) and manganese oxide nanoparticles (MnNPs) using aqueous extract of Acorus calamus rhizome. The organic chemicals including polyphenol compounds responsible for bio-reduction and stabilization from the polyphenol enriched microwave irradiated aqueous extract of Acorus calamus were studied using GC–MS analysis. Further, their synthesis conditions were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD) using three variables. The green synthesized Iron oxide and Manganese oxide NPs were characterized by UV, FTIR, XRD, TEM and SEM. Results indicated that the Iron oxide NPs and mixture of iron and manganese NPs showed photocatalytic excellent activities in reducing dyes like methylene blue (0.1%) and Congo red (0.25%) at 0.03% NPs. However, Mn NPs showed moderate activity. On a contrary, manganese showed better larvicidal activity compared to Iron oxide NPs against the phytopathogens commonly affecting the vegetable crops. The present finding showed that high mortality rate at 30 μg/ml concentration of manganese NPs was comparatively interesting. In addition, NPs overall had appreciable activity with P. aeruginosa being more sensitive to Iron oxide NPs (22 ± 2 mm zone of inhibition) and manganese NPs (13 ± 2 mm zone of inhibition) and Iron oxide NPs completely inhibited the growth of A. flavus at 40 μg/ml concentration. Highlights • Iron oxide and manganese oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using Acorus calamus. • Polyphenol compounds were responsible for bio-reduction and stabilization. • Showed excellent photocatalytic activities in reducing dyes at 0.03%. • Nanoparticles showed larvicidal activity at 30 μg/ml concentration. • Nanoparticles inhibited P. aeruginosa and A. flavus at 40 μg/ml concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Sweet flag could tolerate nitrite up to 30 mg/L. • Nitrite (≥30 mg/L) could trigger physiological protection system of sweet flag. • High nitrite level (40 mg/L) could cause significant increase in PEL and MDA. • Sweet flag membrane system was badly damaged when nitrite increased to 40 mg/L. Abstract Various newly discovered novel biological nitrogen removal (BNR) routes via nitrite offer great potential for improving nitrogen removal efficiency of constructed wetlands. In these novel routes, nitrite is required as the substrate or intermediary media. Hence, in the present study, the tolerance and physiological responses of sweet flag (Acorus calamus L.) to nitrite stress were investigated. Results showed that the physiology of sweet flag was not significantly affected when exposed to nitrite up to 20 mg/L. High nitrite levels (≥30 mg/L) led to changes in its cell membrane permeability, plant photosynthesis and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Particularly, when exposed to a nitrite level of 40 mg/L, sweet flag displayed trends of significant increase in the percentage of electrolyte leakage and contents of malondialdehyde and proline, whereas the chlorophyll content and plant height decreased and antioxidant defence systems were disrupted. Therefore, for CWs with sweet flag, 30 mg/L is the recommended threshold value for nitrite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized (AgNPs) using aqueous rhizome extract of Acorus calamus (ACRE) and evaluated their in vitro anticancer activity and in vivo toxicity in a Wistar rat model. The synthesized AgNPs showed good catalytic activity against different organic pollutant dyes. In vitro cytotoxic effects of AgNPs were assessed in Hep2, COLO 205 and SH-SY5Y cells using MTT assay. Further, the apoptotic changes induced by AgNPs in more susceptible Hep2 cells were observed through AO/EB, DCFH-DA, Rhodamine 123, PI/DAPI staining, oxidative stress markers and Western blotting. In vivo toxicity study revealed substantial alterations in the levels of serum biochemical markers including AST, ALT, LDH and inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-6 on day 29 when rats treated with AgNPs as compared to control, however, these levels were restored to normal at the end of washout period on day 89. No remarkable changes were observed in liver oxidative stress enzymes. ICP-OES analysis indicated bio-distribution of silver in spleen (5.67 μg/g) and liver (4.98 μg/g) in rats treated with 10 mg/kg b.w of AgNPs on day 29 and elimination of silver from all organs was observed at the end of washout period on day 89. Histopathological analysis revealed no significant changes in kidney, spleen, lungs, heart, testis and brain with 5 and 10 mg/kg b.w of AgNP. However, 10 mg/kg b.w of AgNPs showed moderate degree of cell swelling and vacuolar degeneration in liver and these alterations were reverted back to normal at the end of washout period. Findings from this study signify green synthesized AgNPs at low concentrations might be useful in many ways with ecofriendly nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In China, species in the genus Acorus are used for many different purposes, viz., in traditional medicine, for rituals, and as ornamental plants. Acorus calamus (sweet flag) has been a symbolic plant in Chinese culture for many centuries and is used as a ceremonial object in festivals throughout the country. For other Acorus species in China, ethnobotanical records are few. During field investigations from 2006 to 2017, we interviewed 573 individuals representing ethnic groups such as the Miao, Yao, Buyi, Shui, Tujia, Dong, She, Maonan, Zhuang, Yi, and Han people. Various ethnobotanical approaches were adopted in the field surveys, including key informant interviews, semistructured interviews, participatory observation, direct observation, etc. The results have revealed a rich treasure trove of traditional knowledge on Acorus in China. Two species (A. macrospadiceus and A. gramineus) were used by ethnic groups as spices to add flavor to meat. Through the study found that all the species of Acorus had medicinal value, especially A. tatarinowii, deafness, blindness, and digestive disorders were among the conditions commonly treated using these plants. Traditional knowledge of the cultural, ethnomedicinal, and food values of Acorus, based on our recent literature surveys and field investigations in China is presented here. A better understanding of Acorus is vital for conserving the plants and the traditional knowledge associated with them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acorus calamus is a herb used for the appetite and as an aid to the digestion. It is used for fevers, stomach cramps and cholic. Their rhizomes were used for toothache and powdered rhizome for congestion. The rhizome part is also used to treat several diseases like asthma and bronchitis and as sedative. Native tribes treated cough by making a decoction of the plant as a carminative and also for cholic. It is a main medhya drug, which has the property of improving the memory power and intellect. Acorus calamus is used in the conditions of vata and kapha, stomatopathy, hoarseness, flatulence, dyspepsia, helminthiasis, amenorrhea, dysmenorrheal, nephropathy, calculi, stragury. Acorus calamus leaves, rhizomes and its essential oil has many biological activities16 like antispasmodic, carminative and also used for treatment of epilepsy, mental ailments, chronic diarrhea, dysentery, bronchial catarrh, intermittent and tumors. It also has the insecticidal, antifungal, antibacterial, tranquilizing, antidiarrhoeal, antidyslipidemic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, spasmolytic, vascular modulator activities. The parts used in most of the experimental studies are the leaves, roots and stem of the plant. The dry rhizome contains some of the yellow aromatic oil, calamus oil that are responsible for their medicinal and insecticidal properties. Studies were also done on their rhizome part and in its oils in order to identify the active constituents and its medicinal values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five new lignan racemates, (±)-tatarinoid D–H ( 1 – 5 ), and three known analogues ( 6 – 8 ) were isolated from the rhizomes of Acorus tatarinowii . Their structures were established by 1D, 2D-NMR, HR-MS, IR and optical spectral data. Among them, 1 and 6 – 8 can alleviate the cognitive deterioration of A β transgenic flies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research represents a forward step in the control of Aphis glycines. Essential oils from Acorus tatarinowii, Mentha haplocalyx, and Stemona japonica were studied for repellency and anti-molting activities. For the laboratory choice-experiment, of two soybean plants with 4 to 6 leaves each, one was treated with either a single or a mixture of essential oils, while the other was treated with a control solution. The plants were then placed in a cage and twenty aphids were released between the two plants. For no-choice tests, only one plant, treated with essential oil, was placed in the center of a cage and 20 aphids were released around the plant. Viable aphid numbers on plants were recorded at 6, 12, 24, and 36 hours after initiating each test. After 36 hours of observation, numbers of exuviae around the plant were recorded in the no-choice test. In the greenhouse experiment, two potted faba bean plants were used. Five mL of essential oil was sprayed on one plant, and 5 mL of control solution on the other plant. One hundred adult aphids were released into each cage between the two plants. Repellency was observed at 12 and 24 hours of exposure. A mixture of A. tatarinowii plus S. japonica oils demonstrated maximum repellency in both lab (71.25 ± 3.50%) and greenhouse (85.61 ± 1.56). Anti-molting activities were observed when the essential oil of S. japonica was used. Results suggest that a mixture of A. tatarinowii and S. japonica essential oils are effective at controlling A. glycine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-asarone (ASR) is a major bioactive compound isolated from the rhizome of Acorus tatarinowii Schott and it has extensive biological effects. Clinically, anxiety disorder is a common comorbidity of chronic pain. However, limited information is available regarding the effects of ASR on chronic pain-related anxiety. This study aims to evaluate the anxiolytic effects of ASR in chronic pain mice. Chronic inflammatory pain was induced by hind-paw injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Behavioral tests, western-blot analysis and whole-cell patch recordings were performed to evaluate the subsequent events. We found that ASR induced anxiolytic activities in CFA-injected mice but did not affect the nociceptive threshold. ASR administration reversed the up-regulation of GluR1-containing α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, NR2A-containing N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and down-regulation of γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABA) receptors in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) of CFA-injected mice. Electrophysiological data revealed that ASR treatment restored the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmissions, which was disturbed in the BLA of CFA-injected mice. Moreover, ASR prevented the hyper-excitability of pyramidal neurons in the BLA of chronic pain mice. Our results suggested that the anxiolytic effects of ASR were partially due to maintaining the balance between excitatory/inhibitory transmissions and attenuating neuronal hyper-excitability of excitatory neurons in the BLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Chronic stress is an inevitable factor in the modern day society which affects cell mediated as well as humoral immunity. There is a need to prevent stress effects with traditionally used herbs. Objective:The present study was undertaken to investigate the immunoprotective effect of Vacha (Acorus calamusL. Acoraceae) rhizome under stressful condition. Materials and methods:Soxlet extraction of Vacha rhizome was performed with increasing polarity of solvents, i.e., petroleum ether to ethanol. The extract was concentrated by distilling off the solvent in flash evaporator and dried in desiccators. The benzene extract was found to have anti-stress property in our earlier studies and hence it was used in the present experiment. Extract was administered every day for 4 weeks orally to adult female rats prior to exposure to stress, restraint (1 h) and forced swimming exercise (15 min). Results:Vacha rhizome extract significantly prevented the stress induced reduction in total and differential leukocytes count, immunoglobulin content, bone marrow cellularity and viability, lymphocytes counts in lymphoid organs, islands of white pulp of spleen (ED50 = 10 mg,p < 0.001) and a significant increase in circulating immune complexes and apoptotic index of lymphoid organs (ED50 = 10 mg,p < 0.001) compared to controls. Discussion and conclusion:The present study clearly indicates that Vacha extract not only prevents stress-induced suppression of immunity and structural involution of lymphoid organs, but also boosts immunity in normal rats. Therefore, it is suggested that Vacha extract administration maintains normal immunity despite the body experiencing stress. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Commonly used hypnotics have undesirable side-effects, especially during continuous usage. On the other hand, some herbal products, which are used for prolonged periods, are suggested to have a sleep inducing property, though the claims have not been validated scientifically. The hypnotic potential of α-Asarone, an active principle of Acorus species, was tested in the present study by first identifying the optimal dose of α-Asarone for improving sleep, followed by studies that evaluated the effect of repeated administration of this optimal dose for five days on sleep deprived rats. Of all the doses tested (2, 10, 40, 80 and 120 mg/kg), 10 mg/kg α-Asarone improved the quality of sleep, as indicated by an increased NREM bout duration, reduced arousal index, and decreased bout frequencies of NREM sleep and wakefulness. A marginal decrease in the hypothalamic and body temperatures was also observed. Higher doses, on the other hand, not only reduced the quantity and quality of sleep, but also produced hypothermia. In sleep deprived rats, administration of 10 mg/kg α-Asarone for five consecutive days improved the quality of sleep in contrast to the vehicle and a known hypnotic midazolam. Improvement in NREM sleep quality was observed when the difference between the hypothalamic and the body temperature was minimum. An enhanced association between NREM sleep bout duration and hypothalamic temperature was also observed after administration of 10 mg/kg α-Asarone. This comprehensive study is the first report on the hypnotic property of α-Asarone, which validates its potential to be considered for treatment of insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comminution and distillation time are two important factors, which affect the essential oil yield and/or composition of aromatic plants significantly. To find out the suitable comminution process and optimum distillation time for isolation of essential oil fromAcorus calamusL., an experiment was conducted. The comminuted rhizomes (sliced and powdered) were hydrodistilled for different durations and their yields and compositions were compared. Distillation of uncomminuted rhizome for 8 hours gave 2.37% of essential oil. However, in comminuted rhizomes, yield varied from 2.27 to 6.60% under different distillation durations. The resulting essential oils were analyzed using GC-FID and GC-MS. Twenty-seven constituents, representing 94.7–97.2% of the total oil compositions were identified. Major constituents of the oils were (Z)-asarone (84.8–91.2%), and (E)-asarone (2.5–5.2%). The comminution and distillation time showed noteworthy effect on the essential oil yield; however, they showed no major change on the essential oil composition ofA. calamus. It was concluded that powdering of dried rhizomes and effecting distillation for 4 hours are appropriate parameters for extracting maximum essential oil fromA. calamusat laboratory scale.ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHERCopyright of Journal of Essential Oil Research is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two different isolation techniques, conventional hydrodistillation (HD) and micro-steam distillation-solid-phase microextraction (MSD-SPME), have been used to analyze the volatile constituents from the leaves and rhizomes ofAcorus calamusL. by gas chromatography (GC-FID) and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In all the samples studied, phenylpropanoids (16.9-35.3 %) predominated by β-asarone (15.3-16.3 % in rhizomes, 23.4-31.7 % in leaves) were the main constituent. In addition to phenylpropanoids, the acorane type sesquiterpene acorenone B (7.4-16.4 %) and elemene-type sesquiterpenes, epi-isoshyobunone (3.3-7.3 %) and shyobunone (1.5-4.6 %) were detected among the major volatile constituents in the rhizomes. The monoterpenes were represented by camphor (7.5-13.9 %) and camphene (6.1-7.7 %). In the leaf, myrcene (0.3-7.1 %), limonene (1.0-5.6 %), (Z)-β-ocimene (2.9-6.1 %) were among the major constituents. Qualitative difference of the volatiles composition in the rhizomes and leaves are discussed as well as of the volatiles obtained by HD and MSD-SPME techniques are discussed. Biological activity tests resulted in moderate anti-acetylcholinesterase effect and significant cupric reducing antioxidant potential of the leaf oil, while the rhizome oil demonstrated relatively lower effects. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Base composition is highly variable among and within plant genomes, especially at third codon positions, ranging from GC-poor and homogeneous species to GC-rich and highly heterogeneous ones (particularly Monocots). Consequently, synonymous codon usage is biased in most species, even when base composition is relatively homogeneous. The causes of these variations are still under debate, with three main forces being possibly involved: mutational bias, selection and GC-biased gene conversion (gBGC). So far, both selection and gBGC have been detected in some species but how their relative strength varies among and within species remains unclear. Population genetics approaches allow to jointly estimating the intensity of selection, gBGC and mutational bias. We extended a recently developed method and applied it to a large population genomic dataset based on transcriptome sequencing of 11 angiosperm species spread across the phylogeny. We found that at synonymous positions, base composition is far from mutation-drift equilibrium in most genomes and that gBGC is a widespread and stronger process than selection. gBGC could strongly contribute to base composition variation among plant species, implying that it should be taken into account in plant genome analyses, especially for GC-rich ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new sesquiterpene, named neo-acorane A (1), and two known ones, acoric acid (2) and calamusin D (3), were isolated from a 95% ethanol extract of the rhizome parts of Acorus calamus L. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, and the absolute configurations were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 1 and 2 are nonisoprenoid sesquiterpenoids, likely biosynthesized from an acorane-type sesquiterpene by oxidative fission of the six- or five-membered ring. Moreover, compounds 1 (10 μM), 2 (5 μM and 10 μM) and 3 (10 μM) showed cell proliferation activity on the SK-N-BE (2) cell line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty one accessions of Acorus calamus were evaluated for essential oil composition and biological activities during 2009–2014. Essential oil from fresh rhizomes of A. calamus was obtained by hydro–distillation method, and analyzed by GC–FID and GC–MS. The essential oil yield ranged from 1.10 ± 0.28 to 2.50 ± 0.01%. β-asarone, shyobunone and α-asarone were the major constituents in the rhizome oil. Accession IHBT/AC/16 recorded the lowest β-asarone content (31.56%) and IHBT/AC/1 recorded the highest (91.27%). Two accessions, viz ., IHBT/AC/7 and IHBT/AC/16, representing triploid and diploid accessions that contain high and low β-asarone content, respectively, were tested for biological activities. The cytotoxicity of these accessions was evaluated against human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT–29), human epidermoid carcinoma (KB) and human cervical cancer (SiHa) cells at 24, 48 and 72 h. Both accessions at 300 μg/mL and 72 h showed the highest activity against all the tumoral cells. The essential oils of two accessions showed promising larvicidal activities against 2nd instar larvae of Spodoptera litura and Plutella xylostella. However, P. xylostella larvae were more susceptible than the S. litura larvae, and essential oils of accession IHBT/AC/7 were more toxic than accession IHBT/AC/16. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small ponds often suffer from the overgrowth of harmful algae (including cyanobacteria), and few safe methods exist for the rapid suppression of these harmful algae blooms in situ. Since laboratory studies indicated that cyanobacteria could be inhibited by Acorus calamus roots extracts, we evaluated the application of the extracts in natural water column. Besides, we also considered the shifts of algal community structures in extracts-treated enclosures. There were 65 algal species existed in pond before the addition of extracts, which belonged to six phyla: Cyanophyta, Chlorophyta, Cryptophyta, Xanthophyta, Bacillariophyta and Euglenophyta. The water bloom belonged to Microcystis bloom because the algal community was dominated by Microcystis aeruginosa with the abundance of 23.3 × 10 4 cells mL −1 . After A. calamus roots extracts addition, The total algal biomass decreased sharply. In the 20, 50 and 100 mg L −1 extracts-treated enclosures, the removal percentages of the algae were 64.5%, 92.7% and 94.6% after 3 days, respectively. The total algal biomass and Chl a concentration decreased more than 90% for 7 days, and the decrease ratios lasted till the end of 30 days experiment. And at the end of 30 days experiment, the Simpson index (D), Shannon-Weaver index (H’) and Pielou index (E) of the algae community in three treatments were all higher than that of calculated in the controls. The predominant species in algal community shifted from cyanobacteria to Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta in the extracts-treated enclosures. Furthermore, the biomass of cyanobacteria did not recover, while the Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta showed slight recovery. During the first week, the COD Mn increased obviously in the extracts-treated and control 2 (with ethanol) enclosures. Moreover, the concentration of TN increased slightly in the 50 and 100 mg L −1 extracts-treated enclosures in the 1 st day. And in the end of the experiment, the concentrations of TN and I Mn in the three extracts-treated enclosures tended to be consistent with two controls. The initial slight negative effects of the extracts on the water quality eliminated over time. Overall, the antialgal-activity of the extracts showing in pond is encouraging from the applied perspective of using A. calamus roots extracts as natural agent(s) to manage harmful cyanobacteria (Microcystis) blooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rhizomes’ essential oils ofAcorus calamusL. grown in Estonia were analyzed using SDE micro-method for oil isolation, GC/FID with two columns of different polarities and GC/MS for identification and quantification of oil composition. The oil yield was 2.4–3.3%. Seventy-two constituents were identified from threeA. calamussamples comprising over 95% of the oils. β-Asarone (85.3%) was the major constituent in one sample (a characteristic of tetraploidA. calamus).Two samples (probably triploid caryotype) had lower percentage of β-asarone (9.3–10.2), but more acorenone (22.4–27.5%), shyobunone (8.2–13.7%), preisocalamendiol (8.1%) and isoacorone (2.8–5,0%). Strong negative correlations between the contents of β-asarone and other principal compounds ofA. calamusoil were found. The β-asarone-rich chemotype ofA. calamuswas found to be growing in Europe for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Introduction: The aim of study was to develop a simple, sensitive and precise gas chromatographic method for the analysis of ß-asaronein ethanolic, ethyl acetate, aqueous extracts from the rhizomes of Acorus calamus and validate according to current ICH guidelines. Followed by evaluation of antimicrobial activity of prepared extracts in comparison with penicillin disc. Methods: The ß-asarone was one chief active constituent from the rhizomes of Acorus calamus. The ethanolic, ethyl acetate, aqueous extract of rhizomes was prepared and further evaluated for its antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus Mutants by agar well diffusion method. The GC method was used for the analytical determination of ß-asarone. The sample was estimated using gas chromatography with flame ionization as a detector. Nitrogen at a flow rate of 1.18 mL/min was used as a carrier gas and total run time was 10 minutes. The injection port and detector temperature were set to 225°C and 270°C, respectively. The retention time of ß-asarone was found to be 6.9 minutes. Results: The linearity of the developed method was tested in the range of 100 ng/mL-500 ng/mL for ß-asarone, limit of detection and limit of quantification was found to be 22.78 and 69.05 ng/mL respectively and the percentage recovery was from 99.63-100.64%. Conclusion: A simple, precise and accurate GC-FID method has been developed for the determination of β-asarone in ethanolic, ethyl acetate and aqueous extracts of rhizomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharides from Tussilago farfara L., Acorus calamus L., and Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench attenuated the toxic effect of fl uorouracil on the small intestinal epithelium of mice with Lewis lung carcinoma. Addition of polysaccharides to chemotherapy protocols stimulated reparative regeneration processes in the small intestine damaged by the cytostatic treatment. No stimulating effects of the polysaccharides on tumor growth and metastasizing were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acorus calamusessential oil (EO) and its major constituent β-asarone were subjected to insect repellant, mortality, oviposition deterrent and antifeedant efficacy onCallosobruchus chinensisL. The EO showed greater efficacy against all the test parameters than the β-asarone. The repellency experiments were carried out in a glass Y- shaped olfactometer having 60 ml aerial volume At 150 μl, the EO showed 97.3% repellency ofC. chinensiswhile it was only 74.7% in case of β-asarone. The EO caused 100% mortality ofC. chinensisat 0.05 μl/ml after 24 h exposure, while β-asarone could exhibit only up to 46.5%. In addition, the EO was found more efficacious in terms of oviposition, ovicidal, larvicidal and pupaecidal activity than the β- asarone. The fumigant activity ofA. calamusEO and β-asarone against adults ofC. chinensiswas determined through impregnated paper assay in plastic jars of 500 ml capacity .At 0.15 μl/ml EO caused 100% antifeedant activity, thereby, completely protecting the chickpea seeds from insect damage and weight loss. EO also exhibited non phytotoxic nature on treated chickpea seed germination. The findings recommendA. calamusessential oil as a safe alternative of synthetic insecticides and as suitable candidate for pest management strategy against losses of food commodities caused byC. chinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) synthesis and characterization is an area of vast interest due to their broader application in the fields of science and technology and medicine. Plants are an attractive source for AgNP synthesis because of its ability to produce a wide range of secondary metabolites with strong reducing potentials. Thus, the present study describes the synthesis of AgNPs using aqueous rhizome extract of Acorus calamus (sweet flag). The AgNP formation was evaluated at different temperatures, incubation time and concentrations of AgNO 3 using Response surface methodology based Box–Behnken design (BBD). The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV–Visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS). The surface plasmon resonance found at 420 nm confirmed the formation of AgNPs. SEM images reveal that the particles are spherical in nature. The EDS analysis of the AgNPs, using an energy range of 2–4 keV, confirmed the presence of elemental silver without any contamination. The antibacterial activity of synthesized AgNPs was evaluated against the clinical isolates Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and it was found that bacterial growth was significantly inhibited in a dose dependent manner. The results suggest that the AgNPs from rhizome extract could be used as a potential antibacterial agent for commercial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though rhizoma acori graminei (RAG) is frequently prescribed in formulations for brain tumor in traditional Chinese medicine, the potential mechanisms are still unclear. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of β-asarone, a major component in the volatile oil of RAG, against brain tumor and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. The results showed that β-asarone significantly inhibited the cell viability of human glioblastoma U251 cells. Moreover, YO-PRO-1/PI staining revealed that cells treated with β-asarone underwent apoptotic and necrotic death. Then, the two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE)-based proteomics was applied to investigate the different protein profiles of U251 cells treated with vehicle or β-asarone. Sixteen proteins affected by β-asarone were successfully identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. Gene ontology analysis showed that those proteins participated in several important biological processes and exhibited diverse molecular functions. Importantly, four proteins (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein H1 (H), isoform CRA_b, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2/B1, isoform CRA_a, ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L1 and cathepsin D) acting as either oncoproteins or tumor suppressors draw our special attention. Finally, the effect of β-asarone on these four genes was confirmed at transcriptional level by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Collectively, a variety of proteins affected by β-asarone were identified by 2-DE coupled with MALDI-TOF/TOF MS/MS analysis. Four potential protein targets were proposed, which will enable a better understanding of the anti-tumor activity of β-asarone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new cadinane sesquiterpene, 1β ,7β (H )-3-cadinadiene-6α, 10α-diol, together with four known ones, was isolated from the ethanol extract of Acori calami (Acorus calamus L.) rhizoma. Their chemical structures were established on the basis of various spectroscopic methods and compared with data of the related known compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: It was found that the essential oil of Acorus calamus rhizomes showed insecticidal activity. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition of the essential oil from A. calamus rhizomes, evaluate insecticidal and repellant activity against Lasioderma serricorne (LS) and Tribolium castaneum (TC), and to isolate any insecticidal constituents from the essential oil. Materials and Methods: Essential oil from A. calamus was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) flame ionization detector and GC-mass spectrometry. The insecticidal and repellant activity of the essential oil and isolated compounds was tested using a variety of methods. Results: The main components of the essential oil were identified to be isoshyobunone (15.56%), β-asarone (10.03%), bicyclo[6.1.0]non-1-ene (9.67%), shyobunone (9.60%) and methylisoeugenol (6.69%). Among them, the two active constituents were isolated and identified as shyobunone and isoshyobunone. The essential oil showed contact toxicity against LS and TC with LD50 values of 14.40 and 32.55 μg/adult, respectively. The isolated compounds, shyobunone and isoshyobunone also exhibited strong contact toxicity against LS adults with LD50 values of 20.24 and 24.19 μg/adult, respectively, while the LD50 value of isoshyobunone was 61.90 μg/adult for TC adults. The essential oil, shyobunone and isoshyobunone were strongly repellent (98%, 90% and 94%, respectively, at 78.63 nL/cm2, after 2 h treatment) against TC. Conclusion: The essential oil, shyobunone and isoshyobunone possessed insecticidal and repellant activity against LS and TC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The obtained subcritical CO -extract of Acorus calamus was enriched with terpene hydrocarbons and oxygen- containing compounds (carotinoids, sterols, tocopherols, fatty acids) according to GC-MS investigations, which detected about 40 chemical compounds. Camphor, camphene, and β-pinene, which account for the anti-inflammatory effect of the plant extracts, had the greatest percentage contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pot experiment with simulated saltwater incursion was conducted to study the effects of secondary salinization on the denitrification potential and related microbiological activities and size of the denitrifier community by real-time PCR quantification of denitrifying genes in a rhizospheric soil vegetated with different riparian plants. The results showed that saltwater incursion significantly inhibited denitrification potential in the riparian soil, with the average denitrification rate decreased by 34.9%. The inhibitory effects differed with the vegetation types. The rhizosphere soils ofAcorus calamusandPhragmites australisshowed a significantly lower inhibitory percent of the denitrification rate compared with the corresponding monoculture. Secondary salinization resulted in a decrease in the number of N-cycling microorganisms and in the activities of soil N-transforming enzymes, especially the number of denitrifiers and nitrite reductase activity, which exhibited declines of 51.5% and 43.5%, respectively. Real-time PCR quantification showed that the saltwater incursion significantly changed the abundance and composition of denitrifying genes in the riparian soil despite the vegetation types. The community size ofnarGwas the most sensitive, whilenosZwas the least affected by secondary salinization. There were significant differences in the responses of N-transforming microbiological activities and denitrifying gene abundance to secondary salinization in riparian soils with different vegetation types. The inhibition percents of N transforming-related enzyme activities and the abundances of denitrifying genes in the rhizospheric soil ofA. calamusandP.australiswere significantly lower compared with the pure plant community, indicating that mixed vegetation provided a significant alleviation of the inhibition of microbiological parameters and denitrification processes due to saltwater incursion in riparian soil. Principal component analysis (PCA) analysis indicated that the denitrification rate correlated significantly with the activities of N transform-related enzymes and the abundance ofnarG, nirKandnirSrather thannosZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acorus calamus Linn. (A. calamus) has been found use in medicines to cure fevers, asthma, bronchitis and as an all-round sedative. β-asarone is an important phytochemical compound present richly in the rhizomes of Acorus calamus that imparts several therapeutic properties to the plant by the virtue of which the plant has occupied a significant therapeutic acclaim in ancient Ayurvedic text and is employed as one of the key ingredients in several traditional and herbal formulations. Thus, the study aims to develop and validate an efficient Reverse Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) method for quantification of â-asarone from rhizomes of A. calamus of the wild and marketed variety and also intends to apply the validated method for the estimation of the biomarker from different formulations containing the rhizome as one of its ingredients. Methods: Separation was carried out on Cosmosil C18 column eluted with mobile phase of methanol: distilled water (50:50, v/v) at flow rate of 1 mL/min. Detection was carried out at 304 nm using a photodiode array detector (PDA) and the method was validated as per International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. Rhizome was collected from Kerala and also procured from the market. Commercial traditional and herbal formulations like Sarasvata Churna, Maanasmithra Vatakam, Khadiradi Gutika, Chandraprabha Bati, Sanjeevani Vati, Mahashankh Bati, Smritisagar Ras, Abana, Vacadi Taila, and Ashwagandharishtha were further subjected to RP-HPLC for separation and estimation of â-asarone. Results: The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) levels were found to be 0.025 µg/mL and 0.1 µg/mL, respectively. The content of â-asarone was found to be maximum in the sample collected from Kerala which was 0.2946±0.0152 mg/g. Conclusion: The developed method can be recommended for marker-based standardization and quality assurance of A. calamus and its formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergent plants Acorus calamus, Lythrum salicaria, and Scirpus tabernaemontani were exposed to atrazine for 15, 30, 45, and 60 days in a hydroponic system. Effects were evaluated investigating plant growth, chlorophyll (Chl) content, peroxidase (POD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Results showed that selected plants survived in culture solution with atrazine ≤8 mg L, but relative growth rates decreased significantly in the first 15-day exposure. Chl a content decreased, but MDA increased with increasing atrazine concentration. S. tabernaemontani was the most insensitive species, followed by A. calamus and L.salicaria. The growth indicators exhibited significant changes in the early stage of atrazine exposure; subsequently, the negative impacts weakened and disappeared. Plant growth may be more representative of emergent plant fitness than physiological endpoints in toxicity assessment of herbicides to emergent plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the growth inhibition and physiological responses of unicellular and colonial Microcystis aeruginosa during coexistence with Acorus calamus, algal densities, chlorophyll a contents, exopolysaccharide (EPS) concentrations, malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, catalase (CAT) activities, and peroxidase (POD) activities of the two algae strains were analyzed. Although the unicellular and colonial strains of M. aeruginosa were both inhibited by A. calamus, unicellular algae were more sensitive than the colonial algae. The measurement results for EPS, MDA, CAT, and POD showed that unicellular M. aeruginosa had higher levels of stress related damage than colonial strains when they were exposed to the same density of A. calamus, and the cellular defense system of colonial M. aeruginosa was stronger than that of unicellular M. aeruginosa. Natural blooms of Microcystis are typically composed of colonial forms of M. aeruginosa, therefore future efforts to control such blooms, possibly through the development of new algicides, should focus on the unique characteristics of colonial M. aeruginosa strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

a and ß asarones are natural constituents of some aromatic plants, especially species of the genus Acorus (Araceae). In addition to reports of beneficial properties of asarones, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity are also reported. Due to potential toxic effects of ß-asarone, a limit of exposure from herbal products of ~2µg/kg body weight/day has been set temporarily until a full benefit/risk assessment has been carried out by the European Medicines Agency. Therefore, it is important to monitor levels of ß-asarone in herbal products. In this study, we developed a simple, rapid and validated GC-MS method for quantitative determination of asarones and applied it in 20 pediatric herbal products after detecting high concentrations of ß-asarone in a product suspected to be implicated in hepatotoxicity in a 3 month old infant. Furthermore, targeted toxicological effects were further investigated in human hepatocytes (THLE-2 cells) by employing various in vitro assays, with the goal of elucidating possible mechanisms for the observed toxicity. Results showed that some of the products contained as much as 4-25 times greater amounts of ß-asarone than the recommended levels. In 4 of 10 samples found to contain asarones, the presence of asarones could not be linked to the labeled ingredients, possibly due to poor quality control. Cell-based investigations in THLE-2 cells confirmed the cytotoxicity of ß-asarone (IC50 = 40.0 ± 2.0µg/mL) which was associated with significant lipid peroxidation and glutathione depletion. This observed cytotoxic effect is likely due to induction of oxidative stress by asarones. Overall, the results of this study ascertained the usability of this GC-MS method for the quantitative determination of asarones from herbal products, and shed light on the importance of controlling the concentration of potentially toxic asarones in herbal products to safeguard consumer safety, especially when the target consumers are young children. Further investigations of the toxicity of asarones are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]