Asafoetida Research Articles

Evaluation of Ferula assa-foetida L. accessions under different temperature regimes to overcome seed dormancy and different media mixtures to promote seedling growth

Ferula assa-foetida L., a perennial crop of the Apiaceae family, has internal physical seed dormancy that inhibits its germination ability. Hence, to improve germination capacity and overcome seed dormancy, the present study was conducted using six accessions for assessing seed viability using 1% Tetrazolium test three times every 6 months and grown under three different temperature treatments (5, 15, and 25 °C) during 2018–19 and 2019–20. These accessions were also grown under six different potting mixtures to optimize the best media for its survivability under field conditions. Results from the tetrazolium test indicated an average seed viability of 73.03% and showed an ∼5% reduction during 2018–20. From germination tests, a chilling treatment of 5 °C was found most effective for breaking dormancy. Besides, the seedlings grown under different potting mixtures showed that media mixtures in the combination of soil, sand, farmyard manure, and cocopeat were most appropriate for better germination stand. However, further studies are required to explain the agro-practices to cultivate this endangered plant at field capacity. It was also observed that genotypes EC966538 and EC968470 were best performers for overall germination as well as seedling survival parameters and could be used as base populations in future selection and improvement breeding programs.

Quantification of Two Sulfide Compounds in Oleo–Gum‐Resin Supplement of Ferula foetida Using qH NMR and GC–MS Methods

ABSTRACTAsafoetida is an oleo–gum‐resin mainly obtained from Ferula foetida in eastern Iran, which is employed for the treatment of stomachaches, acid reflux, nervous system disorders and respiratory diseases. Asafoetida has attracted the attention of researchers due to its sulfide compounds and their proven effects on respiratory illnesses. In this study, the shelf stability of supplement of F. foetida's oleo–gum‐resin by quantifying two key sulfide compounds including E/Z‐sec‐butyl propenyl disulfane and E/Z‐(methylthio)propyl 1‐propenyl disulfane was evaluated by 1H NMR (qH NMR) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The similar results were obtained in both qH NMR and GC–MS methods. The qH NMR method showed good linearity in the ranges of 2–12 mg/mL for E/Z‐sec‐butyl propenyl disulfane and 2.2–17 mg/mL for E/Z‐(methylthio) propyl 1‐propenyl disulfane with a correlation coefficient of 0.99 and acceptable stability (RSD% ≤ 2.72%) for the quantification of the compounds. Therefore, despite the volatility of disulfide compounds and according to the results, the qH NMR method could be considered adequate method for quantifying these compounds in supplements containing the volatile components that requires extra extraction steps before analyses by other method.

Nephroprotective Effect of Ferula assa-foetida Oleo Gum Resin on Type 2 Diabetic Rats.

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the main causes of kidney failure in the end stage of diabetes worldwide. On the other hand, asafoetida is a gum whose hypoglycemic effects have been proven. The present study was conducted with the aim of using asafoetida to prevent diabetic nephropathy. Diabetes was induced by a high-fat diet (60%) and streptozotocin injection (35 mg/kg) in rats. Diabetic rats were treated with an oral dose of 50 mg/kg of asafoetida for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, serum and urine parameters were examined. Antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation levels in the kidney were also determined along with its histological examination. The expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and Transforming growth factor beta genes were also evaluated. Glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, and HbA1c concentrations were significantly reduced in the asafoetida 50. On the other hand, in the treatment group, serum creatinine, urea, and albumin levels decreased and increased in urine. Antioxidant enzymes in the kidney improved significantly, and the expression of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and transforming growth factor-beta genes decreased. Histopathological examination also showed that necrosis, epithelial damage, and leukocyte infiltration increased in the diabetic and decreased in the treatment group. The result of biochemical analysis, enzymatic, and histological examinations showed that asafoetida may delay the progression of diabetic nephropathy due to the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Gluten-free snacks based on a flour composite mixture, fortified with the Asafoetida spice (Ferula assa-foetida)

A recipe of snacks based on flour composite mixtures has been developed and scientifically substantiated with the aim of extending an assortment of flour snack products belonging to the category of specialized products. These snacks are intended for consumers adhering to the health nutrition principles and, first of all, for patients with celiac disease. Gluten-free types of flour fortified with the asafoetida spice are used in the recipe. Preliminary studies demonstrated that the formulation with a ratio of 60% rice flour, 20% pea flour and 20% chickpea flour had the highest biological value among six variants of flour mixtures. Using the mass-spectrometry method, a wide spectrum of aromatic substances belonging to different classes of organic compounds was revealed in the composition of the asafoetida spice, including aliphatic alcohols, oxo-compounds, aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids, esters, terpenes, phenol derivatives, heterocyclic aromatic compounds (derivatives of furan and thiophene). They have a wide spectrum of action: determine taste and aroma, show the antioxidant properties, and prevent fat rancidification. The investigations showed that addition of 0.2% of asafetida to the flour mixture not only increased the oxidative stability of snacks (induction period increased by 1.5 times), but also reduced the content of lipids. This was achieved due to a decrease in fat absorption during deep-fat frying (approximately by 1.5 times). As a result, the caloric content of the product reduced by 6.8% compared to the control, the oxidation processes were retarded and the shelf-life of snacks was extended. The results of the organoleptic assessment show that gluten-free snacks with the addition of asafetida are significantly superior to the control sample. The total score of snacks with asafetida was 24 points compared to 19 points given to the control sample. They had the most harmonious appearance, color, taste, and odor according to the profilogram of organoleptic indicators among products such as gluten-free snacks based on flour composite mixtures without additives (control), with addition of dietary fibers, with addition of the asafoetida spice and dietary fibers.

Antiviral Effect of Ferula Plants and their Potential for Treatment of COVID-19: A Comprehensive Review.

Viral diseases have always been a threat to mankind throughout history, and many people have lost their lives due to the epidemic of these diseases. In recent years, despite the progress of science, we are still witnessing a pandemic of dangerous diseases such as COVID-19 all over the world, which can be a warning for humanity. Ferula is a genus of flowering plants commonly found in Central Asia, and its species have shown antiviral activity against a variety of viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus, Herpes simplex virus type 1, influenza, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B, and coronaviruses. In this study, we intend to review the antiviral effects of Ferula plants, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of these plants in the treatment of COVID-19. Google, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched to review the relevant literature on the antiviral effect of Ferula or its isolated compounds. The search was performed using the keywords Ferula, antiviral, Coronaviruses, respiratory syncytial virus, Herpes simplex virus type 1, influenza, human immunodeficiency virus, and hepatitis B. According to the reviewed articles and available scientific evidence, it was determined that the plants of this genus have strong antiviral effects. Also, clinical studies have shown that some species, such as Ferula assa-foetida, can be used effectively in the treatment of COVID-19. Ferula plants have inhibitory effects on various viruses, making them an attractive alternative to conventional antiviral agents. Therefore, these plants are a natural source of valuable compounds that can help us fight infectious diseases.

Effect of Eucalyptus globulus and Ferula assafoetida essential oils and their nanoformulations on the life table parameters of Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae).

One of the most damaging pests of agricultural crops across the globe is the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. A wide variety of arthropods and plant pathogens can be controlled by essential oils, which are secondary metabolites produced by plants. It is possible to enhance the stability as well as the anti-pest efficiency of plant essential oils by encapsulation. Water distillation was used to extract the essential oils from Eucalyptus globulus and Ferula assafoetida. The chitosan nanoparticles were used to load both essential oils into nanoformulations. Studies were conducted on T. urticae life table characteristics under experimental circumstances to determine the sublethal impacts of essential oils and their nanoformulations. Intrinsic growth rate (r) for population exposed to E. globulus, F. assafoetida essential oils, their nanoformulations and the control were 0.1, 0.069, 0.051, 0.018 and 0.21 per day, respectively. F. assafoetida and E. globulus nanoformulations resulted the lowest fecundity compared to the other treatments. According the result of the lethal and sublethal effects of purified essential oils and nanoformulations of F. assafoetida and E. globulus, they would be recommended for controlling the two-spotted spider mites, T. urticae.

Evaluation of the Anti-diabetic Activity of Purified Compounds of Ferula assafoetida by in vitro and in silico Methods

Objective Postprandial hyperglycemia is considered an early sign of diabetes. Enzyme inhibitors, such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, are currently being studied as potential drugs for preventing postprandial hyperglycemia. Methods In this study, we investigated the effects of four purified 7-hydroxycoumarine derivatives from Ferula assafoetida: umbelliprenin, farnesiferol A, farnesiferol C, and samarcandin. We evaluated cell toxicity using the MTT method and also examined glucose uptake and inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes in vitro. Additionally, we conducted a molecular docking study to investigate the mechanism of enzyme inhibition. Results The cell toxicity of the terpenoid coumarin derivatives (umbelliprenin, farnesiferol A, farnesiferol C, and samarcandin) on HepG2 cells was found to be approximately 28 to 37 µg/ml. The glucose uptake assay showed that these compounds (at a concentration of 25 µg/ml) were able to increase glucose consumption by HepG2 cells to a level comparable to that of the positive control (metformin at 50 µg/ml). Furthermore, umbelliprenin significantly inhibited the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase (by 35.07% and 4.98%, respectively). Molecular docking results indicated that umbelliprenin, with a farnesyl chain, had a more potent inhibitory effect. Conclusion Our findings suggest that umbelliprenin may be a valuable compound for controlling postprandial hyperglycemia and diabetes. However, further in vivo studies and clinical trials are necessary to validate these effects. While this research offers potential for the development of more effective compounds with coumarin structures, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Exploring the Anticancer Potential of Ferula assa-foetida Bioactive Compounds and Molecular Mechanisms in Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is a major global health issue, with limited treatment options that often come with adverse side effects. Ferula assa-foetida, a medicinal plant known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, has shown potential as an anticancer agent. This study investigates the anticancer effects of Ferula assa-foetida extracts on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and T47D). The research identifies key bioactive compounds, such as ferulic acid and flavonoids, and explores their molecular mechanisms. In vitro assays, including cytotoxicity assays (MTT and Alamar Blue) and apoptosis detection (Annexin V/PI staining), were conducted to measure cell proliferation and apoptosis induction. Furthermore, PCR and Western blot analyses were used to examine the expression of apoptosis-related genes (p53, Bcl-2, and caspase-3). The results indicate that Ferula assa-foetida extracts significantly inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells. This study provides insights into the potential of Ferula assa-foetida as a complementary treatment for breast cancer and supports further research to evaluate its clinical applicability.

Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of triphala, assa-foetida and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth rinses on salivary streptococcus mutans

Oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal diseases are major worldwide oral health problems. Poor oral health has a profound effect on general health and quality of life. Dental caries is still a major health problem in most industrialized countries, school-aged children and the vast majority of adults. Streptococcus mutans is considered as one of the most important cariogenic species of the human oral microbial flora. Studies have proved the association between S. mutans and dental caries. Traditional Indian system of medicine “Ayurveda” includes several important medicinal herbs, which are used since ancient days. Triphala, which has a wide range of systemic benefits, is one among them. Studies have shown that Triphala has good antimicrobial effects against S. mutans. Ferula assa-foetida (F.assa-foetida), is a large herbaceous perennial plant from the Apiaceae family. The properties of Assa-foetida according to Traditional Persian Medicine resources suggest it is very effective for relieving toothache. Different parts of F. assa-foetida have a wide variety of medicinal applications including antifungal, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic and anti-microbial effects. To compare and evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of Triphala, Assa-foetida and 0.2% Chlorhexidine mouth rinses on the salivary Streptococcus mutans level. Saliva samples were collected from children of age group of 5-11 years with a DMFT/def score ≥4 and with minimum of four active caries. Triphala and Asafoetida mouth rinses were prepared indigenously. Samples were plated on the culture media and then smeared on MHA media for assessing the antimicrobial efficacy against Chlorhexidine. The zone of inhibition was measured which showed the resistance against S.mutans. Results were statistically analyzed using one way ANOVA. Significant resistance was noted with asafoetida mouth rinse by measuring the zone of inhibition. Considering the results, Triphala and asafoetida mouth rinses serve as effective herbal mouth rinses for reducing the salivary Streptococcus mutans load and can be considered as an alternative to chemical mouthwash, like Chlorhexidine.

Proteomic and metabolomic insights into seed germination of Ferula assa-foetida

Cold stratification is known to affect the speed of seed germination; however, its regulation at the molecular level in Ferula assa-foetida remains ambiguous. Here, we used cold stratification (4 °C in the dark) to induce germination in F. assa-foetida and adopted a proteomic and metabolomic approach to understand the molecular mechanism of germination. Compared to the control, we identified 209 non-redundant proteins and 96 metabolites in germinated F. assa-foetida seed. Results highlight the common and unique regulatory mechanisms like signaling cascade, reactivation of energy metabolism, activation of ROS scavenging system, DNA repair, gene expression cascade, cytoskeleton, and cell wall modulation in F. assa-foetida germination. A protein-protein interaction network identifies 18 hub protein species central to the interactome and could be a key player in F. assa-foetida germination. Further, the predominant metabolic pathways like glucosinolate biosynthesis, arginine and proline metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and carotenoid biosynthesis in germinating seed may indicate the regulation of carbon and nitrogen metabolism is prime essential to maintain the physiology of germinating seedlings. The findings of this study provide a better understanding of cold stratification-induced seed germination, which might be utilized for genetic modification and traditional breeding of Ferula assa-foetida. SignificanceSeed germination is the fundamental checkpoint for plant growth and development, which has ecological significance. Ferula assa-foetida L., commonly known as “asafoetida,” is a medicinal and food crop with huge therapeutic potential. To date, our understanding of F. assa-foetida seed germination is rudimentary. Therefore, studying the molecular mechanism that governs dormancy decay and the onset of germination in F. assa-foetida is essential for understanding the basic principle of seed germination, which could offer to improve genetic modification and traditional breeding.

Insecticidal Potential of Spice Extracts of <i>Syzygium aromaticum, Trigonella foenum-graecum</i> and <i>Ferula assa-foetida</i> against Grain Weevil <i>Sitophilus oryzae</i> (L)

The preservation of post-harvest storage products, such as grains and rice, is often plagued by insect pests, with the rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae L.) standing out as important. This study evaluates the efficacy of spice extracts of Syzygium aromaticum, Trigonella foenum-graecum and Ferula assa-foetida against S. oryzae at varying concentrations. Extracts exhibited toxicity that inhibited egg development and larval progression, with deformations observed at lower concentrations leading to larval death at higher concentrations. Qualitative and quantitative assessment of insect α-amylase activity revealed significant decreased activity with prolonged exposure. The study demonstrated increasing mortality rates with the combined spice extracts displaying the highest efficacy followed by S. aromaticum, T. foenum-graecum, and F. assa-foetida extracts, indicating promising insecticidal activity against S. oryzae.

Biological activity of essential oils from Ferulago angulata and Ferula assa-foetida against food-related microorganisms (antimicrobial) and Ephestia kuehniella as a storage pest (insecticidal); an in vitro and in silico study

Misuse of synthetic pesticides and antimicrobials in agriculture and the food industry has resulted in food contamination, promoting resistant pests and pathogen strains and hazards for humanity and the environment. Therefore, ever-increasing concern about synthetic chemicals has stimulated interest in eco-friendly compounds. Ferulago angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. and Ferula assa-foetida L., as medicinal species with restricted natural distribution and unknown biological potential, aimed at investigation of their essential oil (EO) biological properties, were subjected. Z-β-Ocimene and Z-1-Propenyl-sec-butyl disulfide molecules were identified as the major composition of the essential oil of the fruits of F. angulata and F. assa-foetida, respectively. In vitro antimicrobial activity and membrane destruction investigation by scanning electron microscopy imaging illustrated that F. angulata EO had potent antibacterial activity. Besides, the EOs of both plants exhibited significant anti-yeast activity against Candida albicans. In relation to insecticidal activity, both EOs indicated appropriate potential against Ephestia kuehniella; however, the F. assa-foetida EO had more toxicity on the studied pest. Among several insecticidal-related targets, acetylcholinesterase was identified as the main target of EO based on the molecular docking approach. Hence, in line with in vitro results, in silico evaluation determined that F. assa-foetida has a higher potential for inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and, consequently, better insecticide properties. Overall, in addition to the antioxidant properties of both EO, F. angulata EO could serve as an effective prevention against microbial spoilage and foodborne pathogens, and F. assa-foetida EO holds promise as a multi-purpose and natural biocide for yeast contamination and pest management particularly against E. kuehniella.

Variability in phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity and essential oil profile in different tissues of Ferula assa-foetida L. populations in Iran: an opportunity for industrial products

AbstractPlant responses to multiple environmental conditions in the habitat are characterized by intra-species variety. Ferula assa-foetida L. is a native medical plant in Iran, which has a wide range of therapeutic and pharmacological properties. The objective of the current study was to identify changes in phenolic content, antioxidant capacity and essential oil (EO) composition in different tissues (leaf, flower and fruit) of three populations of F. assa-foetida L. (Sarbisheh, Nehbandan, located in South Khorasan province of Iran). The results showed that total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity in the leaves of Sarbisheh were higher than in other treatments. The amount of TPC, TFC and DPPH scavenging activity in leaves was higher than in other tissues in the Sarbisheh population, increasing by 31 and 70%, 41 and 20%, 8 and 13%, respectively, over that of flowers and fruits. The main EO compounds of leaves were α-pinene (11.86–13.56%), β-pinene (6.80–7.99%), bornyl acetate (15.80–17.33%). The main EO constitutes of flowers were Z-propenyl-sec-butyldisulfide (10.12–12.4%), eco-fenchyl acetate (10.87–12.4%), myrcisticin (13.43–15.87%) and α-bisabolol (11.23–13.76%). The primary compounds of fruit EO were β-pinene (9.32–11.26%), (Z)-1-propenyl sec butyldisulf (17.54–18.87%) and (E)-1-propenyl sec butyldisulf (28.32–30.02%). The agglomerative hierarchical clustering showed that three distinguished clusters were identified for population, where Nehbandan and Qaen had the higher similarity and Sarbisheh completely differed from the two ones. Different plant tissues contain varying types of chemicals, with leaves exhibiting higher levels of phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. This characteristic can be beneficial for industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.

Characterization and investigation of cytotoxicity and antimicrobial properties of coencapsulated limonene and thymol into the Ferula assafoetida gum microparticles

Thymol (Th) and d-limonene (L) exhibit low stability and are prone to oxidation when exposed to air, light, humidity, and high temperatures. This study examined the coencapsulation of Th and L into Ferula assafoetida gum (AFG) microparticles. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) were done to characterize the obtained complexes. Furthermore, the encapsulation efficiency, antibacterial properties, cytotoxicity, and anticancer properties of both the free and encapsulated forms of L and Th were measured. For all samples, by increasing the percentage of bioactive compound (L, Th, and L-Th) from 2.5 to 5 % w/w, the EE was increased. FTIR and XRD analysis results demonstrated that Th and L were successfully incorporated into the AFG. Additionally, thermogravimetric analysis showed that in the thermal graphs of all samples, the first weight loss occurred between 30 °C and 160 °C, which was due to the evaporation of water. In the free L and Th graph, a sharp reduction peak was observed in which 80 % of compounds were lost. These reduction peaks disappeared in the thermal graphs of L: AFG and Th: AFG revealing that the thermal stability of Th and L was significantly increased upon their incorporation into the AFG. The inclusion of Th into the AFG also led to an increase in its antibacterial activity, while L exhibited acceptable antibacterial activity, albeit not as high as Th. Additionally, according to the MIC results, Th: AFG had the best antibacterial activity among all compounds, especially on gram-positive bacteria. According to the result of the MTT assay, there was a significant difference between the IC50 of free Th (123.4 μg/ml) and Th: AFG (2312 μg/ml), and free L (1762 μg/ml) and L: AFG (2480 μg/ml) showing that encapsulated Th and L into the AFG has decreased the cytotoxicity of free compounds against L929 cell line. Also, Th: AFG had the best anticancer activity against Hella and CT26 cell lines among all compounds. Finally, the flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that the encapsulated particles effectively eliminated cancer cells. The outcomes imply that AFG can be employed as a suitable delivery system to enhance the use of Th and L into the food and pharmaceutical industries.

A preliminary report comparing the effect of Asafoetida with oral contraceptive on polycystic ovarian syndrome in a double-blind randomized trial.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility and endocrine disorders in women of childbearing age. In Persian medicine, Ferula assafoetida L. (Asafoetida) was recommended for treating PCOS. The present study was conducted to compare the effect of Asafoetida with oral contraceptive tablets on PCOS patients. Patients with PCOS (n=30) were enrolled in a double-blind randomized clinical trial. On Day 5 of the menstrual cycle, patients received two periods of 21-day treatment, with 7 days rest between the two treatments. On a daily basis, half of the patients (n=15) received Asafoetida (1 g), and the rest received low dose oral contraceptive (LD; one tablet). Menstrual status, anthropometric characteristics, hematology and biochemistry parameters, ovarian ultrasound examination and hirsutism were evaluated prior to the initiation of the experiment and 14 days after the end of treatment. The occurrence of menstrual cycles and pregnancy was assessed eight months after the end of treatment. The incidence of pregnancy was greater in patients who received Asafoetida compared to those who received LD (p=0.019). The time intervals between menstrual cycles became shorter in both groups (p<0.05). The occurrence of regular menstrual cycles remained longer in the Asafoetida compared to the LD group (p=0.001). Concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL and LDL were significantly increased after treating with LD (p<0.05). In PCOS patients, the occurrence of regular menstrual cycles and the incidence of pregnancy were improved following treatment with Asafoetida. This medicament could be considered a safe treatment for patients with PCOS.

The effect of Phytopaj ) Ferula assa-foetida L. oleo gum resin and tragacanth( in patients with COVID-19: A randomized clinical trial.

Exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has a positive effect on respiratory diseases. Oleo-gum of Ferula assa-foetida contains this compound. This study assessed the effects of Ferula assa-foetida L. oleo gum resin and tragacanth (Phytopaj) on patients with COVID-19. A randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial (RCT) phase 2 was conducted in Mashhad on hospitalized COVID-19 patients. In this RCT, 122 patients were randomly assigned to either receive a 14-day oral phytopaj plus ordinary treatment or ordinary treatment only. Changes in peripheral blood lymphocyte count (LC) and blood oxygen saturation (PO2) were the endpoints. Mean±SD of PO2 in Phytopaj comparison ordinary treatment before intervention was 91.86±4.62 and 91.41±9.18, after the intervention it was 93.22±4.26 and 91.91±5.92 mmHg; before intervention, mean±SD of peripheral blood lymphocyte count was 1015.90±500.55, and 1104.28±543.61, and after intervention, it was 1652.27±921.38 and 1326.12±719.28/μL respectively. Phyopaj is most useful in moderate stages of Covid19, and it is not recommended for elderly patients and patients with comorbidity until more insight is gained.

The pH estimation of decoction of hingu (Ferula foetida Regel,), chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica Linn), dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa kurz), shatavari (Asperagus racemosus willd), shunthi (Zingiber officinale Rosc), maricha (Piper nigrum Linn), gokshura (Tri

The pH is measured on a scale of 0-14 with lower values indicating high H+ which is more acidic and higher values indicating H+ ion activity which is less acidic. The pH of 7 is considered as neutral. The acids are the substances that produce free hydrogen ions(H+) when dissolved in water. Bases are substances that produce hydroxyl ions(OH-) when dissolved in water. Acidic solutions are rich in hydrogen ions and basic solutions are poor in hydrogen ions. Some acids dissociate only partly, releasing large amounts of H+ ions, and are called as strong acids. In same way, bases that dissociate partly are called weak bases and those that dissociate completely are called as bases. The acidic or basic property of substances is measured in terms of pH. It is a measurement of the hydrogen ion concentration. pH is defined as the negative logarithm(Base 10) of hydrogen ion concentration. pH= - log[H+] If the hydrogen ion concentration id very high, the pH value is very low. This is determined using a scale ranging from 0-14 called the pH scale. It was introduced by a Danish chemist Soren Peder Lauritz Sorensen. Substances with pH lower than 7 are acidic, those with pH equal to 7 are neutral and those with pH greater than 7 are basic in nature. The pH of water is 7. In the present work the decoction of Hingu(Ferula foetida Regel,), Chitraka(Plumbago zeylanica Linn), Dhataki(Woodfordia fruticosa kurz), Shatavari(Asperagus racemosus willd), Shunthi(Zingiber officinale Rosc), Maricha(Piper nigrum Linn), Gokshura(Tribulus terrestris Linn) and Chandana(Santalum album Linn) were subjected for experimentation. The observed values were tabulated. The pH estimation helps to determine the acidic and basic strength of acids and bases.

ENTOMOCIDAL POTENTIAL OF BOTANICAL EXTRACTS AGAINST JASSID (AMARASCA BIGUTTULA BIGUTTULA) IN OKRA ABELMOSCHUS ESCULENTUS L.

Okra a verdant vegetable, is a member of the Malvacae family. Many insect pests attack okra crop but jassid (Amrasca biguttula biguttula) is one of the most devastating sucking pests causing significant losses. Laboratory and field investigations were carried out to find out the efficacy of biopesticides against the jassid, on okra crop at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Punjab, Lahore. A. Esculentus seeds were sown in a randomized complete block design with four replications in March 2023. Treatments applied were T0 (control), T1 Citrullus colocynthisis extract), T2 (Datura stramonium stramonium extract), T3 (Eucalyptus globulus extract), T4 (Ferula assafoetida extract), T5 (Nicotiana tabacum extract), and T6 (Detergent) as the least hazardous chemical for comparison. A 20% v/v concentration of each treatment was applied as the pest population peaked. Pre-treatment observations were made 24 hours before the application of biopesticides, while post-treatment observations were made at 24, 48, and 72-hour intervals, as well as after one week and ten days. The results showed that all the bio-pesticides reduced the jassid population by up to one-week intervals under laboratory and field conditions. Under field conditions, the N. tabacum extracts reduced the per leaf population up to 78%) followed by F. assafoetida (77%), C. colocynthisis (63%), E. globulus (51%), D. stramonium (42%) and Detergent (25%). In the contrary, no significant differences were observed among N. tabacum extract, F. assafoetida, and C. colocynthisis extracts after 72 hours. It is concluded that bio-pesticides derived from N. tabacum, F. assafoetida, and C. colocynthis are highly effective to combat the jassid infestation.

Evaluation of Histomorphology and Spermatogenic Indices in Diabetic Rats Treated with Ferula assa-foetida L. Oleo Gum Resin Extract.

Evaluation of Histomorphology and Spermatogenic Indices in Diabetic Rats Treated with Ferula assa-foetida L. Oleo Gum Resin Extract.

Antitumor and Phytochemical Properties of Ferula assa-foetida L. Oleo-Gum-Resin against HT-29 Colorectal Cancer Cells In Vitro and in a Xenograft Mouse Model.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently occurring tumors. Ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum-resin (OGR) extract is a traditional cooking spice known for its broad spectrum of biological activities such as antifungal, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory activities. This study evaluated the antitumor effect of OGR extract against HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. The OGR chemical composition was analyzed using LC-ESI-MS/MS; MTT, clonogenic assays, and a xenograft model were used to measure cytotoxicity, while apoptotic proteins were detected using Western blotting. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the extract was a rich source of isoflavones, xanthones, and other derivatives. In a dose-dependent manner, the OGR extract significantly inhibited colony formation ability and HT-29 cell growth (IC50 was 3.60 ± 0.02 and 10.5 ± 0.1 mg/mL, respectively). On the other hand, the OGR extract significantly induced apoptosis and increased the expression of some pro-death proteins involved in cellular apoptosis including PUMA, BIM, BIK, and BAK. Moreover, in a subcutaneous HT-29 xenograft model, the tumor volume and burden decreased after treatment with the OGR extract (550 ± 32 mm3 and 16.3 ± 3.6, respectively) This study demonstrated that Ferula assa-foetida OGR ethanolic extract has potential antitumor effects against HT-29 CRC cell lines by reducing cell viability and the function of apoptosis. More studies are needed to reveal the underlying mechanisms related to cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction.