Aqueous Plant Extracts Research Articles

Aqueous extracts from Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax show cytotoxic and radiosensitizing potential in 3D growing HPV-negative and HPV-positive human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma models

Numerous natural substances have anti-cancer properties. Especially indigenous people use aqueous plant extracts for tea or ointments including Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax to treat various diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic and radiosensitizing potential of aqueous extracts from Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax collected from Kenya in a panel of HPV-negative and -positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells grown in three-dimensional laminin-rich extracellular matrix (3D lrECM). The results show cytotoxicity, radiosensitization and increased levels of residual double strand breaks (DBS) by Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax extracts in HPV-negative and -positive HNSCC models in a concentration- and cell model-dependent manner. Application of ROS scavengers indicated an association between ROS-induced DSB and radiosensitization through Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax pretreatment. High-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) based characterization of Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax identified the main components of the extract including camptothecin. Overall, Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax aqueous extracts alone and in combination with X-ray irradiation showed effective anticancer properties, which are worthy of further mechanistic investigation.

Influence of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Chaenomeles leaf extracts on pathogenic microorganisms Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Fusarium culmorum

Herein, we report for the first time the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using leaf extracts of Chaenomeles Lindl. (Rosaceae) plants and its spectral characteristics, as well as antifungal and antibacterial activity. Phytosynthesis of silver nanoparticles on the base of aqueous plant extracts and silver nitrate solution was carried out by an ecofriendly and cost-effective approach. UV-Vis spectroscopy was applied to validate the plant-mediated biosynthesis of AgNPs colloidal solutions by the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) bands in the region of 450–500 nm, characteristic of polycrystalline silver nanoparticles. Scanning microscopy (SEM) revealed a wide variation in range 5–58 nm and a close to spherical shape of plant-derived AgNPs. Raman scattering spectroscopy revealed the suitability of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles as the substrates for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy with the highest efficiency of AgNPs, biosynthesized from leaf extract of Ch. × superba, which enhanced the Rhodamine 6G dye applied at a concentration of 10–7 M. Assay of antifungal activity performed by well diffusion method revealed the dose-dependent effect of all AgNPs against the phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium culmorum. The most effective AgNPs (Ch. speciosa-AgNPs, Ch. cathayensis-AgNPs, and Ch. japonica-AgNPs) achieved a 1.42–1.63 times greater zone of inhibition of the F. culmorum colonies’ growth compared to the corresponding doses of the known chemical fungicide "Quadris". Micro preparations of the zones of incomplete growth inhibition presented changes in the mycelium morphology of F. culmorum due to the action of nanoparticles, such as deformation (curvature, expansion), and a decrease in the hyphae length and density compared to the control sample. Disc-diffusion assay showed notable species-specific antibacterial activity of AgNPs both against Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) strains. Summarizing, the results indicate the undeniable suitability of aqueous leaf extracts of the genus Chaenomeles species for the successful biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles with many useful properties, whose diverse applications require further research.

Characterization and Management of Post-harvest Fungal Diseases in Banana (Musa paradisiaca)

Banana (Musa spp.) is a vital crop globally, contributing significantly to food security and income generation, particularly in tropical regions like India. However, post-harvest fungal diseases pose a considerable threat to banana production, affecting both fruit quality and marketability. The current study investigated the isolation, characterization, and management of post-harvest fungal diseases in banana (Musa paradisiaca). Infected banana fruits were collected from the Dharashiv fruit market (Maharashtra, India), and pathogenic fungi were isolated and identified. Fusarium napiforme, Talaromyces atroroseus, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Fusarium sp., and Fusarium equiseti were the primary pathogens identified. DNA extraction and sequencing were employed for accurate identification, and sequences were submitted to GenBank. The antifungal activity of essential oils and plant extracts was evaluated using the Poisoned Food Technique. Essential oils from Syzygium aromaticum, Mentha piperita, and Punica granatum showed significant inhibition (P<0.05) of fungal growth, with clove and peppermint oils achieving 100% inhibition at higher concentrations. Plant extracts of Ocimum sanctum, Eucalyptus globulus, Mentha piperita, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Azadirachta indica, Piper betel, and Cymbopogon citratus were also tested, revealing notable efficacy, particularly with neem and peppermint extracts. The study that the efficacy of essential oils was more compared to aqueous plant extracts. The results suggested sustainable strategies for managing post-harvest fungal diseases in bananas and explained the importance of conducting field trials to validate laboratory results.

Zinc oxide/barite nanocomposite from Trachyspermum ammi plant extract: A novel agent against protoscolices of Echinococcusgranulosus

Hydatid disease is a shared illness between humans and livestock that impacts the health of both humans and animals, and it also presents considerable risks to the global economy. The current study aims to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and zinc oxide/barite nanocomposites (ZnO/Brt NC) modified with chitosan (ZnO/Brt/Chit NC), using aqueous extract of the Trachyspermum ammi plant and a chemical method. The scolicidal effect, IC50, and mRNA expression of the caspase-3 gene on protoscolices were measured using Real-time PCR to identify nanomaterials (NMs) with superior biological efficacy against hydatid cyst protoscolices. The characteristics of these NMs were examined using techniques such as XRD, FTIR, FE-SEM, EDS, DLS, ZP, and PDI. Colloidal sizes for ZnO NPs, ZnO/Brt NC, and ZnO/Brt/Chit NC synthesized via the green method, and ZnO/Brt NC and chemically-synthesized ZnO/Brt/Chit NC were found to be 28.18, 68.10, 106.60, 85.90, and 165.60 nm, respectively. These NCs, which possess crystalline structures and spherical morphology, have been stabilized on a barite substrate. The zeta potential obtained for the green-synthesized NCs is −22.80 mV, and for those synthesized chemically, it is −19.70 mV. Results indicate that ZnO NPs and green-synthesized ZnO/Brt NC have the strongest scolicidal effect. At a concentration of 200 mg/mL, ZnO NPs achieved 100 % lethality in 60 min and ZnO/Brt NC in 30 min. The IC50 values for ZnO NPs and ZnO/Brt NC were 858.3 and 1205 μg/mL, respectively. In contrast, chemically-synthesized and chitosan-modified NCs showed a weaker scolicidal effect. At a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, a significant increase in caspase-3 gene expression was observed for ZnO NPs (6.66 ± 0.94), (p = 0.003) and green-synthesized ZnO/Brt NC (5.06 ± 1.27), (p = 0.02), suggesting these NMs could be effective scolicidal agents In vivo conditions.

In vivo Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity of Chamomile Extract against Procyclidine-Induced Oxidative Stress: Potential Application in Cancer Prevention.

The study aimed to investigate the effect of the aqueous extract of the chamomile plant on oxidative stress induced by procyclidine in rats. 30 rats were randomly divided into five groups, with 6 rats in each group. The first group was given distilled water only, while the second group was administered procyclidine (1 mg/kg body weight) in three doses daily for a period of 60 days. The third group was given procyclidine in the same doses as the second group for 30 days. Afterward, they were administered an aqueous extract of chamomile (300 mg/kg) for another 30 days. The fourth group was administered the aqueous extract (300 mg/kg) for 30 days. Subsequently, they were given procyclidine in the same doses as the second group for another 30 days. On the other hand, the fifth group was administered the aqueous extract of chamomile (300 mg/kg) for a period of 60 days to investigate the potential effects of the extract. Afterward, blood samples were drawn to measure various biological parameters, including Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Transaminase (ALT), and Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Finally, an anatomical study was conducted on the kidneys, brain, and liver to enhance the research. The results displayed a significant increase in the levels of TOS, MDA, AST, ALT enzymes, and Ach-E activity in the second group compared to the first group. Groups 3 and 4 significantly decreased compared to the second group based on the same standards. In regard to Group 5, there are no significant moral differences between it and Group 1. Finally, this study demonstrated the importance of using chamomile extract as an antioxidant and its potential in cancer prevention against the oxidative stress induced by excessive doses of procyclidine. (p ≤ 0.005).

Bioefficacy of Mucana pruriens extracts against Rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

In the agricultural sector, the rice weevil, Sitophilous oryzae L. is one of the most damaging pests, causing significant economic losses worldwide. It is an internal feeder of grains. The female rice weevil causes damage to the grain by creating a hole in it and laying her eggs inside. The main purpose of our study was to investigate the biological effect of an aqueous extract of Mucana prurienson rice weevil under laboratory conditions. To assess the biological activities, data like number of the days to adult emergence, total adult emergence, percent infestation, weight loss, adult longevity, and adult sex ratio were recorded. The findings showed that, in the case of a 100 mg/ml plant extract, the maximum number of days needed for the adult emergence of rice was 66 and 72 days for wheat weevil, and the minimum number of days required was 20 and 25 in case control of both rice and wheat grains. When rice grains were treated with 0 mg/ml aqueous extracts, the maximum number of adult emergences observed was 72 on rice grains, while 66.00 occurred on wheat grains. The highest percentage of infestation (40.00%) was found in rice grains, while the highest percentage (39.78%) was found in wheat grains treated with 0 mg/ml aqueous extracts. The lowest weight loss (7.99%) was observed in rice grains and the highest weight loss (16.66%) in wheat grains treated with 100 mg/ml extracts; on the other hand, the lowest weight loss (13.33%) was observed in rice grains and the highest in wheat grains treated with 0 mg/ml aqueous extracts. When weevils were raised on untreated rice and wheat grains, the longest recorded adult lifespan was achieved overall. For rice weevil control that is safer, plant aqueous extracts with concentrations of 100 mg/ml and 75 mg/ml ought to be utilized. The present studies were carried out to examine the environmentally friendly aqueous extracts of Mucana pruriens and their pesticidal efficacy in controlling rice weevil. The study anticipates that Mucana pruriens extracts will exhibit significant insecticidal properties, potentially providing a natural alternative to synthetic insecticides. This study contributes to sustainable pest management strategies for stored grains.

Phytochemicals and Antibiotic Studies of Ethanolic Extracts of Dennettia Tripetala (Mmimi/Pepper Fruit) and Psidium Guajava (Guava) Leaves on Clinical Isolates of Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia Coli

Aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of Dennetia tripetala and Psidium guajava were evaluated for their antimicrobial effects against clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli from Annunciation Specialist Hospital Enugu State Nigeria. The identified isolates were sub-cultured on sterile nutrient agar plates and incubated over night at 37°C. The identified isolates were then re-identified and characterized. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect Staphylococcus aureus strain which has 85% pairwise similarity with Staphylococcus haemolyticus strain SH1 and Escherichia coli strain which has 99.62% pairwise similarity with E. coli strain AC1. Quantitative and qualitative phytochemical analysis were done on the extracts of Dennetia tripetala and Psidium guajava using water and ethanol as extracting solvents. The phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides and phenols. Quinonas however, was absent in this study. The isolates were screened for sensitivity to different extracts using agar well diffusion technique. The results indicated that both the ethanol and aqueous extracts of the Psidium guajava leaves showed inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus at 10mm and 12mm respectively but no activity against E. coli. On the other hand, the aqueous extracts of the Dennetia tripetala showed inhibitory activity against S. aureus and E. coli at 20mm and 10mm respectively whereas, the ethanol extract has no activity on both test microorganism. The extracts were reconstituted with Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to concentrations (mg/ml) of 200, 100, 50, 25, 12.5 and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extracts were determined using agar well method. The MIC of the Psidium guajava leaves extract revealed that both ethanolic and aqueous extracts inhibited S. aureus at 12.5mg/ml. While MIC of the Dennetia tripetala revealed that the aquous extract inhibited S. aureus at 50mg/ml and E. coli at 100mg/ml from the results, the aqueous extracts of both plants generally have a better inhibitory property than the ethanolic extracts. Based on the present findings, Dennetia tripetala and Psidium guajava leaves possess the capability of being good candidates in the search for a natural antimicrobial agent against infections or diseases caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

The Effect of Aqueous Extract of Fenugreek Plant on the Pancreas in Rabbits Induced with Diabetes and the Histological Changes Occurring in Them

The study aimed to induce alloxan-induced diabetes in local white rabbits, study its effect on the pancreas, treat them with aqueous extract of fenugreek at a concentration of 200 mg/kg orally, and observe the histological changes. To complete the study 20 white rabbits were taken and divided into three groups; 1st group is the control group and this group was dosed with distilled water. 2nd group was treated with Alloxan and was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 175 mg/kg. 3rd group is the group that was treated with the aqueous extract of fenugreek at a concentration of 200 mg/kg for 30 days. After the end of the injection and dosing period after 30 days, the animals were killed and the pancreas was removed to perform histological techniques on them. its the group treated with alloxan was observed that the pancreas was composed of exocrine glandular lobules with enlarged secretory cells within the pancreatic acinus, with the presence of pale nuclei lacking pigment. Also, blood congestion of the blood vessels was found between the lobules of the gland and the pancreatic gland showed hyperplasia of its glandular epithelial cells with nuclei devoid of pigment due to the loss of the basal pigment in them. Blood congestion of the blood vessels appeared in the gland between the lobules, and dense colloidal fibers appeared in them and contained fibroblasts and phagocytic cells and the group treated with the aqueous extract of the fenugreek plant :The pancreatic parenchyma contained normal exocrine glandular secretion units, where the cytoplasm and nuclei of these cells were located in the form of regular axes, septations between the lobules of the pancreas surrounded by thick-walled arteries containing blood. and the islets of Lankerhans appeared between the yeast-secreting lobules of the pancreas. They contained endocrine cells of alpha and beta cells surrounded by blood sinusoids. The interstitial tissue between the lobules is composed of loose connective tissue containing colloidal fibers the pancreatic tissue contained the serous secretory vasculature of yeasts, which were uniform in shape, and between them were found blood vessels excessive with blood, where blood was found in a decomposed form in them, with the presence of small channels inside the lobules that transport yeasts.

Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Extracts from Different Parts of the Paullinia cupana Kunth Plant: Characterization and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity.

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be developed using safe and environmentally friendly routes, can replace potentially toxic chemical methods, and can increase the scale of production. This study aimed to synthesize AgNPs from aqueous extracts of guarana (Paullinia cupana) leaves and flowers, collected in different seasons of the year, as a source of active biomolecules capable of reducing silver ions (Ag+) and promoting the stabilization of colloidal silver (Ag0). The plant aqueous extracts were characterized regarding their metabolic composition by liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS), phenolic compound content, and antioxidant potential against free radicals. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV/Vis spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX). The results demonstrated that the chemical characterization indicated the presence of secondary metabolites of many classes of compounds in the studied aqueous extracts studied, but alkaloids and flavonoids were predominant, which are widely recognized for their antioxidant capabilities. It was possible to notice subtle changes in the properties of the nanostructures depending on parameters such as seasonality and the part of the plant used, with the AgNPs showing surface plasmon resonance bands between 410 and 420 nm using the leaf extract and between 440 and 460 nm when prepared using the flower extract. Overall, the average hydrodynamic diameters of the AgNPs were similar among the samples (61.98 to 101.6 nm). Polydispersity index remained in the range of 0.2 to 0.4, indicating that colloidal stability did not change with storage time. Zeta potential was above -30 mV after one month of analysis, which is adequate for biological applications. TEM images showed AgNPs with diameters between 40.72 to 48.85 nm and particles of different morphologies. EDX indicated silver content by weight between 24.06 and 28.81%. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited antimicrobial efficacy against various pathogenic microorganisms of clinical and environmental interest, with MIC values between 2.12 and 21.25 µg/mL, which is close to those described for MBC values. Therefore, our results revealed the potential use of a native species of plant from Brazilian biodiversity combined with nanotechnology to produce antimicrobial agents.

Comparative Evaluation of Antioxidative and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Acerola-Mediated Silver Nanogel and Copper Oxide Nanogel.

The tropical plant acerola of the genus Malpighia includes shrubs and trees with fruit that is high in nutrients and bioactive chemicals. Acerola stands out due to its exceptionally high ascorbic acid content, ranging from 1500 to 4500 mg/100 g. Vitamin C intake greatly influences gingival health. The addition of nanoparticles along with vitamin C-rich acerola exhibits high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby positively improving gingival health. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of aqueous extracts of the acerola plant (Malpighia emarginata) were assessed. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were synthesized using the aqueous extract of acerola cherry gel by the phytogenic fabrication method. The antioxidant potential of silver and copper nanoparticles was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and nitric oxide scavenging activities. Increasing concentrations of nanoparticles showed an increase in scavenging activity. Overall, CuONPs and AgNPs exhibited remarkable radical quenching efficacies. The anti-inflammatory effectiveness of CuONPs and AgNPs was monitored, showing suppression of protein denaturation as demonstrated by bovine serum albumin (BSA), egg albumin (EA), and membrane stabilization assays. The results revealed that increasing the doses of CuONPs and AgNPs had a positive impact on the anti-inflammatory activity of the nanoparticles. The present study revealed that both nanoparticles provided better antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study also elaborates on the pharmacological potential of both nanoparticles, which could be further explored for application in all healthcare sectors.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Azadirachta Indica Leaves Against Tooth Decay Microbes in Kirkuk City

100 samples were collected from people suffering from tooth decay attending dental clinics in Kirkuk City. The results showed that 59(59%) of samples have positive growth on Mannitol salt agar, MacConkey agar, and blood agar. While the remaining samples had no growth. Isolates were identified using biochemical and microscopic tests, 20 samples of Streptococcus mutans bacteria were isolated, with the highest percentage reaching (33.9%), 16 Staphylococcus aureus isolates representing (27.1%), followed by 13 (22%) Candida albicans isolates and 10 (17%) Staphylococcus epidermidis isolates. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the neem plant were prepared, the aqueous extract showed higher activity against the isolates than the alcoholic extract. Neem extracts also showed higher effectiveness against bacteria compared to fungi, Ciprofloxacin was used as a control agent for bacteria and fluconazole for fungi. Streptococcus mutans recorded the highest inhibition zone of 4.5±0.53 and 2.3±0.51 at 100 mg/mL concentrations for aqueous and alcoholic extracts, respectively, followed by the rest of the isolates with different inhibition zones. The minimum inhibitory concentration for the aqueous extract of neem was (40 mg/ml) and (60 mg/ml) for the alcoholic extract, While C. albicans recorded (20 mg/ml) and (40 mg/ml) for the aqueous and alcoholic extracts, respectively. Keywords: dental caries, neem plant, bacteria, fungi.

Exploring Antipsoriatic Potential of Aloe vera Gel

Research centers on conducting a phytochemical analysis of Aloe vera Linn leaf extracts, with an investigation into the existence of lead acetate solution, proteins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, sulfur tests, and tannins. The gel formulation was tested for color, appearance, and homogeneity, and all batches produced gels that were easy to spread. Scores of 90% for the gel’s extrudability, 80% for its quality, and 70% for its fairness were given. Inhibitory effects against HaCaT cell lines were observed with the synthetic herbal component Aloe vera Linn. These effects were minor when compared to the positive control 5-FU. Several aqueous plant extracts were tested for antipsoriatic activity using the Perry scientific mouse tail method. When compared to retino A cream, the aqueous extract of Aloe vera Linn gel (500 mg/kg) improved ortho keratotic regions by 59.26%. Results suggest that Aloe vera Linn leaf extracts may have a variety of functions, including antipsoriatic and therapeutic. To completely grasp the versatility of these plant extracts, additional research is necessary.

Ultrasound assisted green synthesis of silver nanoparticles stabilized by chitosan polymers: Investigation of its therapeutic application in diarrhea

The current investigation aims to study the bio route preparation of chitosan capped-silver nanoparticles using aqueous flower extract of the Achillea ptarmica plant. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles/chitosan (Ag NPs@CHI) were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques. The creation of Ag nanoparticles over the chitosan was initially determined by the presence of a single broad peak at 545 nm that was recorded by the UV–Vis spectrum. The presence of poly-dispersity, spherical shape and nanosizes in the Ag NPs@CHI were verified by the TEM and SEM pictures. The purity and crystalline nature of the prepared Ag NPs@CHI were confirmed by XRD analysis. In vivo, Ag NPs@CHI decreased the inflammatory cells presence in the colon and ileum, lowered the levels of IL-17A, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, raised the levels of IL-10 and IL-4 in colon tissues, enhanced acetate and propionate production. The findings revealed that Ag NPs@CHI have the potential to boost intestinal structure restoration, decrease levels of inflammatory cytokines and enhance short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels. Our research demonstrated that Ag NPs@CHI can safeguard the intestinal barrier by upregulating the expression of Claudin-1 and Occludin. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles suppressed the MAPK signaling pathway to ameliorate the inflammatory condition. Following the completion of clinical trials, these novel nanoparticles could serve as a promising new treatment for diarrhea in humans.

Insecticidal activity on Tribolium castaneum and Phenacoccus solenopsis and characterization of active phytonanoparticles

Phytonanoparticles can be used as an alternative method for pest control in agriculture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal activity of mono, bi and trimetallic phytonanoparticles (PNPs) synthesized from cachanilla (Pluchea sericea Nutt. Coville) and epazote (Chenopodium ambrosioides L.) against the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) and the cotton mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis). Overall, T. castaneum showed greater sensitivity to PNPs than P. solenopsis. The trimetallic PNPs, Zn/Cu/Mn of P. sericea showed significantly higher effect against T. castaneum than the crude aqueous extract of P. sericea. No other PNPs showed more effect than their respective aqueous plant extract. Physicochemical characterization of the most active PNPs showed that the Zn/Cu/Mn NP of P. sericea had a strong zeta potential of +200 mV, hydrodynamic size of 16 nm, and contains zinc (6.73%), copper (0.13%), and manganese (4.69%). This study suggests that the trimetallic Zn/Cu/Mn PNPs of P. sericea have high insecticidal effect on T. castaneum, but low toxicity on P. solenopsis. Additional research on the mode of action of PNPs on insect targets is required.

Biotermiticidal Activity of Jatropha gossypifolia Linn. plant extract against Odontotermes obesus (Isoptera: Termitidae)

Abstract: Termiticidal potential of methanol and aqueous leaves extract of Jatropha gossypifolia Linn. were studied against Odontotermes obesus. The plant leaves were dried, powdered and extracted with methanol and aqueous solvent in soxhlet apparatus for 24 hrs. The 20 termites were exposed to various concentrations from 9.0 to 14.5 mg/ml) of methanol and of aqueous plant extract of Jatropha gossypifolia and percent mortality were recorded after 24 hrs. The termiticidal activity of leaves extract of Jatropha gossypifolia were (LC10 = 9.8220 mg/ml, LD50 = 10.093, LC90 =12.667 mg/ml) in methanol and (LC10 = 11.984, LC50 = 13.195, LC90 =14.531 mg/ml) in aqueous solvent respectively. Results revealed that the mortality was increased with increasing in concentration of the plant extracts. The methanol solvent extract of Jatropha gossypifolia showed higher termiticidal property against Odontotermes obesus. Statistical variance, 95% confidence limits and regression equations are presented.

Bio-ultrasonic synthesis of tin oxide quantum dots: effect of bio-carbon and their UV photocatalytic activity

An ecofriendly synthesis is realized to elaborate tin oxide quantum dots (SnO2 -QDs) using the plant aqueous extract of Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera) and SnCl4.5H2O at room temperature as a biological solvent and a precursor respectively. The effect of Aloe Vera extract concentration on the properties of SnO2-QDs has been studied. Morphological and structural properties of the as synthesized nanoparticles have been characterized using field effect-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The chemical composition of the nanoparticles was studied by Raman, energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) and Fourier transformation infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. The optical properties were investigated by UV–Vis spectrophotometer. The x-ray diffraction analysis showed that all samples have a tetragonal rutile structure, with an estimated crystal size closed to the exciton Bohr radius, indicating a strong confinement of the carriers in the material. The crystallite size of SnO2-QDs nanoparticles decreases as Aloe Vera plant extract concentration increases. The formation of SnO2-QDs and the presence of graphitic carbon in samples were confirmed by Raman spectroscopy, EDX analysis and Fourier transformation infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. The blue shift in absorption is the most likely due to the quantum confinement effect. An Ostwald-repining growth model based on the concept of surface energy has been proposed to explain the kinetic growth of SnO2 QDs. The photocatalytic activities of the as-prepared powders were confirmed by the fast and efficient degradation of methylene blue (MB).

Silver nanoparticle biosynthesis utilizing Ocimum kilimandscharicum leaf extract and assessment of its antibacterial activity against certain chosen bacteria.

The use of plants in the biological production of silver nanoparticles for antibacterial applications is a growing field of research. In the current work, we formulated Ocimum kilimandscharicum extracts using silver nanoparticles, and evaluated its potential antibacterial activity. Aqueous and methanol plant extracts were used to reduce silver nitrate at different time intervals (30 to 150 minutes) and pH (2 to 11). The UV-visible absorption spectrum recorded for methanol and aqueous extracts revealed a successful synthesis of AgNPs for methanol and aqueous extracts. The antimicrobial activity of the AgNPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella choleraesuius ATCC 10708, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 The best inhibition zone for the methanol and aqueous-mediated AgNPs, ranging from 12 ± 1 to 16 ± 1mm. Additionally, the methanol and aqueous extract silver nanoparticles had the same Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (6.25 ± 0.00 mg/ml), whereas the Minimum Bactericidal Concentrations were 12.5 ± 0.00 and 25 ± 0.00 mg/ml, respectively. The highest inhibition zone of 16 ± 1 mm was observed against Salmonella choleraesuius with 50 ± 0.00 mg/ml aqueous silver nanoparticles. The results show that the silver nanoparticles made with Ocimum kilimandscharicum have antibacterial action against those microorganisms.

An Informative Review on Green Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide by Phytoextracts

Graphene in the form of film, fiber, fabrics and composites is widely investigated research area because of its remarkable physical, chemical and thermal properties. The acceptance of plant-derived products to synthesize graphene or reduced graphene oxide (RGO) has the supremacy of environmentally friendly, mild reaction condition, sustainability, cost effective and simple reaction procedure compared with conventional chemical synthesis methods. To synthesize RGO from graphene oxide (GO) in traditional chemical reduction method, highly toxic and hazardous reducing agents, capping agents, solvents are generally employed which severely affect and threaten ecological equilibrium and human well-being. In this paper, different highly facile and eco-friendly, low-cost green synthesis of RGO using aqueous plant extracts have been surveyed. The phytochemical present in plant extract, methods of preparation of the extract, detection of phytochemical present in extract, preparation of GO, methods of reduction of GO, mechanism of reduction of GO by greener way are discussed.

Investigation of Hydrocolloid Plant Polysaccharides as Potential Candidates to Mimic the Functions of MUC5B in Saliva

The successful substitution of complex physiological fluids, such as human saliva, remains a major challenge in drug development. Although there are a large number of saliva substitutes on the market, their efficacy is often inadequate due to short residence time in the mouth, unpleasant mouthfeel, or insufficient protection of the teeth. Therefore, systems need to be identified that mimic the functions of saliva, in particular the salivary mucin MUC5B and the unique physiological properties of saliva. To this end, plant extracts known to contain hydrocolloid polysaccharides and to have mucus-forming properties were studied to evaluate their suitability as saliva substitutes. The aqueous plant extracts of Calendula officinalis, Fucus sp. thalli, and lichenan from Lichen islandicus were examined for composition using a range of techniques, including GC-MS, NMR, SEC, assessment of pH, osmolality, buffering capacity, viscoelasticity, viscoelastic interactions with human saliva, hydrocolloid network formation, and in vitro cell adhesion. For this purpose, a physiologically adapted adhesive test was developed using human buccal epithelial cells. The results show that lichenan is the most promising candidate to mimic the properties of MUC5B. By adjusting the pH, osmolality, and buffering capacity with K2HPO4, it was shown that lichenan exhibited high cell adhesion, with a maximum detachment force that was comparable to that of unstimulated whole mouth saliva.

Evaluation of the Protective and Healing Effects of Heracleum lasiopetalum Boiss on a Modified Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis Model in Rats

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon with no definitive cure, necessitates the exploration of innovative therapies. Herbal remedies combined with conventional drugs may offer complementary benefits, enhancing treatment outcomes. Objectives: This study investigates the therapeutic effects of Heracleum lasiopetalum Boiss in a rat model of acetic acid-induced UC. Methods: Forty-eight adult female Wistar rats were randomly allocated to six groups (n = 8 per group) for each of two experiments. UC was induced by intracolonic administration of 1 ml of 4% acetic acid for 10 minutes. In the treatment groups, female rats received an oral gavage of 5%, 10%, and 40% aqueous plant extract, sulfasalazine (100 mg/kg), and distilled water for 6 days, starting 3 days after acetic acid administration. The protective groups received substances via oral gavage from 7 days before to 3 days after acetic acid administration. The extent of mucosal ulcers, hyperemia, inflammation, and mucosal bleeding was evaluated based on the Gerald Classification System Score (Macroscopic). Pathological assessment was conducted on prepared slides using the modified Wallace method (Microscopic). Changes in body and colon weight, along with food and water intake, were examined. Results: Significant changes in food intake were observed in both the extract and positive control treatment groups, exhibiting a notable difference compared to the negative control group (P < 0.05). Body weight changes experienced a significant increase in the positive control treatment group compared to the negative control group (P < 0.05), while no significant difference was evident between the extract and negative control treatment groups (P > 0.05). In terms of water and food intake, as well as weight changes, no significant differences were detected among the various protective groups (P > 0.05). Both microscopic and macroscopic examinations revealed a substantial enhancement in the colon of the extract and positive control treatment groups compared to the negative control group (P < 0.05), with no significant difference observed between the protective groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Heracleum lasiopetalum extract demonstrates a dose-dependent reduction in colon hyperemia, mucosal ulceration, inflammation, and fibrosis. This highlights its potential as a supplementary treatment option for UC, emphasizing the need for further investigation.