Trachyspermum Ammi Research Articles

Impact of Essential Oils on Biological Traits of <i>Trichogramma chilonis</i> Ishii

Trichogramma chilonis Ishii (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) reared on factious host rice moth Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is an egg parasitoid on lepidopteran pests. The essential oils, viz., ajowan Trachyspermum ammi, betel Piper betle, and sweet basil Ocimum basilicum and neem oil were assessed for their toxicity and biological traits like parasitism and emergence on T. chilonis. Among the EOs tested, T. ammi caused highest toxicity to T. chilonis (LC50 0.316 ppm) followed by P. betle (LC50 0.567 ppm). At sublethal dose, they had an impact on parasitism and adult emergence of T. chilonis. Whilst O. basilicum and neem oil were relatively safe at sublethal doses to T. chilonis. This study highlights the need to maintain a waiting period before the release of T. chilonis in EOs treated substrates.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential oil Extracted from Trachyspermum Ammi (ajwain) Seeds: an In-vitro Study

The food industry uses essential oils derived from natural sources as flavouring and preservatives. The purpose of this study is to investigate how temperature affects the essential oil extracted from Trachyspermum ammi, seeds which has the best antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, in order to find a green substitute for toxic chemically produced preservatives used in food and pharmaceutical chemistry. Trachyspermum ammi (ajwain seeds) seeds were hydrodistilled at various temperatures (60°C to 90°C). The amount of essential oil was found to decrease on increasing temperature (2.1ml, 1.5 ml and 1.0 ml at 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C respectively). Hence, 70°C was the ideal temperature for extracting the essential oil from ajwain seeds. 25 components were discovered in the essential oil extracted from ajwain seeds by GC-MS technique. The predominant ingredient was shown to be thymol (31.40%). The percentages of scavenger activity against hydrogen peroxide were 70.75%, 86.99%, and 95.28% for 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C respectively. Due to the presence of the largest concentration of thymol (67.66%), the results showed that essential oil extracted at 90°C demonstrated the highest level of antioxidant property. By using the disc diffusion method, the antimicrobial activity of an essential oil made from ajwain seeds was evaluated. MIC50 of standard essential oil of Trachyspermum ammi seeds against gram positive strain was observed 10 µL/mL of culture and 25µL/mL of culture was observed against gram negative bacteria. Essential oil extracted at 70°C showed antimicrobial activity by forming zones of inhibition with diameters including discs of 18.3 mm and 14.36 mm against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. Essential oil extracted at 80°C produced zones of inhibition with diameters of 18.68 mm and 15.30 mm, respectively. In the case of essential oil extracted at 90°C, the zones of inhibition against S. aureus and E. coli had diameters of 18.690.3 mm and 15.38 mm, respectively. As a result, using Trachyspermum ammi essential oil as a food preservative and the temperature at which it is extracted are unaffected by an increase in extraction temperature. Hence, essential oil obtained from Trachyspermum ammi seeds can be used as green alternative of chemically synthesized toxic preservatives used in food and pharmaceutical chemistry.

Shelf life extension of Oncorhynchus aguabonita fillets based on Trachyspermum copticum essential oil nanoemulsion coating during storage at 4 °C

This study investigated the effects of Trachyspermum copticum essential oil nanoemulsion (TCEO-NE) coating on chemical, microbial and sensory changes of Oncorhynchus aguabonita fillets during storage at 4 °C. The components of T. copticum EO were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. TCEO-NE was prepared by ultrasonic method and its properties were identified. Fresh O. aguabonita fillets were immersed in TCEO-NE and stored at 4 °C. Chemical (pH, TVB-N, peroxide and TBARS), microbiological (total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, psychrotrophs, enterobacteriaceae, lactic acid bacteria and Staphylococcus aureus) and sensory analyses (color, odor and taste) of fish fillets were evaluated on days 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 11. Thymol, limonene and alpha-terpinene were the major compounds in T. copticum EO. The droplet size of TCEO-NE was 580.30 nm and PDI was 0.46. The control group exceeded the peroxide limit on day 6, while TCEO-NE 500.00 and 666.66 did so on day 8. The TBARS value in was 0.57 mg MA/kg on day 0 which reached 4.76 mg MA/kg in the control group and 2.90 mg MA/kg in TCEO-NE 666.66 after 11 days at 4 °C. Aerobic mesophilic count in the control group exceeded the permissible level on day 6 and, in TCEO-NE 500.00 and 666.66, on day 8, therefore the shelf life of fish fillets was improved by two days. On the grounds of the favorable properties of TCEO-NE and its positive effects on chemical, microbial and sensory changes in fish fillets, it can be used as a natural food additive.

Topical Cryogel Application of Carboxymethylcellulose/Silane‐Modified Hyaluronic Acid Containing Trachyspermum copticum Nanoemulsions for the Treatment of Infected Wounds

AbstractInfectious wounds commonly occur and must be rapidly treated with safe and efficient agents. Antibiotic‐resistant is a major challenge for the treatment of infected wounds. This preliminary study aimed to evaluate the effects of the topical cryogel application of carboxymethylcellulose/silane‐modified hyaluronic acid (CMC/HY‐Silane) containing Trachyspermum copticum essential oil nanoemulsions (TSP NEs) for the treatment of infected wounds. Four related factors of 3‐glycidyloxypropyl‐trimethoxysilane (GPTMS), time, pH and temperature were selected and their effects were evaluated to monitor the porosity each factor with the help of Taguchi method. The maximum porosity of cryogels (39.20 %) was obtained at GPTMS=30 μL, pH=9, temperature of 25 °C and time of 30 min. CMC/HY‐Silane hydrogels containing 0.00 %, 2.00 % and 4.00 % TSP NEs were produced. Antibacterial and toxicity of the nanostructures and wound contraction, total bacterial count, histopathological parameters and the expressions of IL‐10, TGF‐β1 and NF‐κB were also assessed. The efficiency of cryogels was compared with antibiotics. In vivo and in vitro studies confirmed that the administration of cryogels containing TSPNEs accelerated the wound healing process by increasing the expressions of collagen, IL‐10 and TGF‐β, fibroblast, epithelization and decreasing edema and the expression of NF‐κB. The results also showed that cryogels could compete with synthetic ointment of mupirocin.

In vitro anti-mycobacterial property and phytochemical profiling of Senna auriculata and Trachyspermum copticum

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a contagious disease that is the leading cause of death by a single causative organism. The present study aims to investigate and assess the anti-mycobacterial property of some traditionally important medicinal plants and analyze their phytochemical constitution. The extracts of some plants based on their medicinal importance were checked for their activity against M. smegmatis using anti-mycobacterial disc diffusion plate assay. Aqueous extracts of Senna auriculata, Trachyspermum copticum and Musa spp. were tested against M. smegmatis. Further Senna auriculata and Trachyspermum copticum extracts were taken to bioactivity guided sequential extraction. On screening, ethyl acetate extract of S. auriculata, T. copticum and methanol extract of S. auriculata showed considerable inhibition with an average zone of inhibition of about 2 cm dia against M. smegmatis. Further phytochemical analysis was done to narrow down the class of compounds that might be responsible for the inhibitory activity. The tests revealed the presence of some important group of natural compounds like alkaloids, anthocyanins, tannins, β- cyanins, coumarins and terpenoid. GC-MS analysis of the samples showed some biologically important compounds with potent anti-tubercular activity.

Intercropping medicinal plants is a new idea for forage production: A case study with ajowan and fenugreek

AbstractBiofertilizers has potential to improve crop productivity in a sustainable manner yet their impact on forage crops yields and forage quality indices have not been extensively explored. In this study, the impact of different cropping patterns and fertilizer sources on the forage yield and quality of ajowan (Carum copticum L.), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum L.), and pea (Pisum sativum L.) was investigated. The findings shed light on the importance of biofertilizer application as a sustainable solution for enhancing forage production and quality in agricultural systems. The experimental treatments involved six cropping patterns [ajowan monoculture, fenugreek monoculture, pea monoculture, intercropping of one row ajowan + one row fenugreek + one row pea (1:1:1), two rows ajowan + two rows fenugreek + two rows pea (2:2:2), and three rows ajowan + three rows fenugreek + three rows pea (3:3:3)] and five fertilizer sources [no fertilizer (control), 100% chemical fertilizer (CF), chemical fertilizer + humic acid (CF + HU), chemical fertilizer + biofertilizer (CF + BF), and humic acid + biofertilizer (HU + BF)]. The results revealed that the 2:2:2 intercrop fertilized with CF + BF had the highest N, P, and K concentrations for the three species. The monoculture systems with CF + BF produced the highest forage yields for ajowan (5492 kg/ha), fenugreek (3811 kg/ha), and pea (12,695 kg/ha). In addition, 2:2:2 intercrop fertilized with CF + BF produced the highest forage quality for all three species, decreasing the crude fiber, acid detergent fiber, and neutral detergent fiber contents and increasing forage ASH, dry matter intake, water‐soluble carbohydrates, and relative feed value. The 2:2:2 intercrop ratio combined with CF + BF application could be recommended to farmers as an eco‐friendly strategy (decreasing chemical fertilizer use) for improving forage productivity and quality in sustainable agricultural systems.

Recent Advances in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Cultivation: A Review

Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.), also known as carom seed, belongs to the family Apiaceae, a native from Egypt. It is a popular seed spice crop in India. It is an annual herbaceous plant bearing small egg shaped greyish brown fruits. Seeds contain medicinal values, especially for curing indigestion, stomach pain, and elements concerning the digestive system. Thymol (30-35%), γ-terpinene (23.92%), and p-cymene (22.9%) are the major constituents present in the seeds. The essential oil extracted from Ajwain seeds is being used in minor quantities in perfumery, food flavouring as preservatives, and most extensively in folk medicines, especially for remedies of stomach disorders. Dry and hot fruit fermentation is externally applied on the chest to cure asthma, and a crushed fruit paste is applied for colic pains. Evaluation and characterization of seed spices germplasm is required for their documentation and cataloging crop wise for further use by plant breeders and biotechnologists to improve yields, quality, and resistance against biotic as well as biotic stresses. There is an urgent need to enhance the productivity and quality of the crop by adopting suitable agronomic practices such as population densities per hectare and the nutritional status of the soil. Major research is needed on pesticide residue management to earn better foreign exchange. Recent available advanced research and development have been described in this article.

Updated Detailed Review of Trachyspermum Ammi: Composition, Applications and Pharmacological Profile

Trachyspermum Ammi (T. Ammi) is a traditional medicinal plant belonging to the family Apiaceae. It, also known asAjacine or Ajwain, is an herb with Egyptian origins. It is distributed all over India and mainly cultivated in Rajasthan and Gujarat.This review is designed to discuss the updated pharmacological activities of T. Ammi, its phytochemistry, herbal formulations,and patents filed on its novel formulations and their actions. Until now, no such review has discussed the above mentionedparticulars on the same platform. The review aims to provide the updated traditional and pharmacological activities of T. Ammi,along with its phytochemistry, herbal formulations, and microwave-assisted extraction method. The microwave-assistedextraction method is less time-consuming, cost-effective, and gives more extractive value than other methods. We have alsoadded the latest novel patents of the T.ammi. It is an annual plant with tall growth that is fragrant and bears white blooms andlittle brownish berries, small, grey, bitter, and peppery. The seeds or fruit of this plant are the parts that are used mostfrequently. Ajwain's fruits have 5% essential oil in them. Ancient researchers highly influenced the use of this herb. The essentialoil brings on Ajwain's aroma and flavor. Ajwain is a potent traditional medicine that is frequently used to cure a variety ofillnesses in both humans and animals. To include literature evidence to support the article's theme, a search was performed onfive electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar, by using specific keywords.

Updated Detailed Review of Trachyspermum Ammi: Composition, Applications and Pharmacological Profile

Trachyspermum Ammi (T. Ammi) is a traditional medicinal plant belonging to the family Apiaceae. It, also known asAjacine or Ajwain, is an herb with Egyptian origins. It is distributed all over India and mainly cultivated in Rajasthan and Gujarat.This review is designed to discuss the updated pharmacological activities of T. Ammi, its phytochemistry, herbal formulations,and patents filed on its novel formulations and their actions. Until now, no such review has discussed the above mentionedparticulars on the same platform. The review aims to provide the updated traditional and pharmacological activities of T. Ammi,along with its phytochemistry, herbal formulations, and microwave-assisted extraction method. The microwave-assistedextraction method is less time-consuming, cost-effective, and gives more extractive value than other methods. We have alsoadded the latest novel patents of the T.ammi. It is an annual plant with tall growth that is fragrant and bears white blooms andlittle brownish berries, small, grey, bitter, and peppery. The seeds or fruit of this plant are the parts that are used mostfrequently. Ajwain's fruits have 5% essential oil in them. Ancient researchers highly influenced the use of this herb. The essentialoil brings on Ajwain's aroma and flavor. Ajwain is a potent traditional medicine that is frequently used to cure a variety ofillnesses in both humans and animals. To include literature evidence to support the article's theme, a search was performed onfive electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar, by using specific keywords.

Acaricidal Toxicity of Four Essential Oils, Their Predominant Constituents, Their Mixtures against Varroa Mite, and Their Selectivity to Honey Bees (Apis cerana and A. mellifera).

The honey bee (Apis mellifera) faces a significant threat from Varroa destructor, causing the losses of millions of colonies worldwide. While synthetic acaricides are widely used to control Varroa infestations, excessive application has led to resistant strains and poses side effects on the host. Consequently, there is an urgent need for a new acaricide that is both effective and affordable, yet safe to use on bees. One potential source of these acaricides is essential oils (EOs) and their constituents. This study evaluated the acaricidal properties of four essential oils (Eucalyptus globulus, Rosemary officinalis, Trachyspermum ammi (Ethiopian and Indian varieties), their constituents and mixture of constituents against V. destructor through the complete exposure method. Our finding showed that a 1:1 mixture of thymol and carvacrol (4 h-LC50 = 42 μg/mL), thymol (4 h-LC50 = 71 μg/mL), and T. ammi oil (4 h-LC50 = 81-98 μg/mL) were the most toxic test samples against V. destructor. Honey bee behavior and selectivity were also assessed with one additional EO Thymus schimperi, indicating that T. schimperi, T. ammi, and their components were selective and did not affect the learning and memory of bees. In conclusion, the thymol and carvacrol (1:1) mixture was shown to be a promising replacement for synthetic acaricides, being three times more toxic than a commercial acaricide, fluvalinate (4 h-LC50 = 143 μg/mL).

A New Approach to the Investigation of Therapeutic Efficiency of Novel Carum copticum Nanoparticles against Leishmania major Promastigotes

Current therapies for Leishmaniasis are associated with several side effects as well as drug resistance. Sensitivity and resistance of Leishmania major to Glutamine are referred to as those isolates which are responsive or non-responsive to one or two full courses of treatment by Glucantime systematically and/or intra-lesionally, respectively. In this study, We assessed a new approach to the investigation of the therapeutic efficiency of novel Carum copticum Nanoparticles against Leishmania major Promastigotes. First, the Carum copticum Nanoparticles were synthesized and liposomal Carum copticum was applied as a new therapeutic approach substituted for current therapy. In this experimental study, liposomal Carum copticum was prepared using the thin film hydration method and characterized based on encapsulation efficiency, size, and zeta potential. Carum copticum was successfully loaded into the liposome. The surface charge of the nanoparticle was neutral and the size of the nanoparticle was 176.5 nm. Liposomal Carum copticum beared spherical shape without any agglomeration. Results revealed that liposomal Carum copticum carried a significant effect, compared to the control sample, on parasite growth in both logarithmic and stationary phases. The result of this study signifies that the Carum copticum Nanoparticles induces a better and more tangible effect on the survival of Leishmania major promastigotes.

Ayurvedic Herbs Advised for COVID-19 Management: Therapeutic Potential and Clinical Relevance

Abstract: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread worldwide. There is no effective medication for COVID- 19 as of now, so it would be good to take preventive measures that not only boost our immunity but also fight against infections. The use of traditional Chinese medicine in China to treat COVID-19 patients sets the prototype demonstrating that traditional medicines can contribute to prevention and treatment successfully. In India, the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) released a self-care advisory during the COVID-19 crisis as a preventive aspect. This review article discusses the therapeutic potential and clinical relevance of some herbs [(Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Haridra (Curcuma longa), Tvaka (Cinnamon), Maricha (Piper longum), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Munakka (Dried grapes), Lavang (Syzigiumaromaticum), Pudina (Mentha arvensis), and Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi)] advised by AUYSH to take during COVID-19 infection. They are effective in COVID-19 management, therefore, authors have discussed their detailed traditional uses as therapeutics and spotted scientific insight and clinical significance of the herbs mentioned above along with their mechanistic viewpoint, adequately, on a single platform. Provided information could be a treasure to open up a new research arena on natural products to manage human health crises effectively, caused not only by COVID-19 but also by other infectious diseases.

Evaluating the Impact of Biochar and Foliar Application of Potassium Silicate on the Growth and Productivity of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L) Plant Under Water Stress in The Newly Reclaimed Soil Conditions

Evaluating the Impact of Biochar and Foliar Application of Potassium Silicate on the Growth and Productivity of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L) Plant Under Water Stress in The Newly Reclaimed Soil Conditions

Fabrication of Carum copticum essential oil-loaded chitosan nanoparticles and evaluation its insecticidal activity for controlling Rhyzopertha dominica and Tribolium confusum.

Plant essential oils (EOs) can be used as a feasible tool for insect pest control. Nanoparticle formulations of plant EOs can improve the efficiency and stability of EOs, as well as insecticidal potential. In this study, Carum copticum L. essential oil-loaded nanoparticles (OLNs) were prepared via an oil-in-water emulsion, followed by droplet solidiffication via ionic gelation using a cross-linker, sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP). The nanoparticles were characterized by ultraviolet and visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), laser light scattering (LS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Moreover, the insecticidal activity of C. copticum EO and OLNs was evaluated against Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrychidae) and Tribolium confusum Jacquelin du Val. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). In addition, their effectiveness was assessed on the progeny production of tested insect species. The loading efficiency ranged from 34.33 to 84.16% when the chitosan to EO weight ratio was 1:1.25 and 1:0.5, respectively. The loading efficiency decreased with increasing EO content in the nanoparticles. The OLN particles exhibited spherical shape. The particle size was in the range 120-223.6 nm and increased with the increase of EO to chitosan ratio. So that the largest mean particle size (223.6 nm) was reported in the 1:1.25 weight ratio of chitosan to the EO. The mortality percentage of R. dominica and T. confusum adults were 74 and 57% when exposed for 7 days to 2000 mg/kg of OLNs at the 1:1.25 weight ratio, while EO caused 62 and 44% mortality on both insect species, respectively. Therefore, OLNs can potentially improve the insecticidal activity of C. copticum EO and could be applied to facilitate control of stored-product insect pests.

Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain): A Sacred plant with High Medicinal and Therapeutic potential

Medicinal plants have many secondary metabolites, making them a good source of medication or therapeutic agents. Medicinal plants or their parts can be the only source of treatment or effective management for various life-threatening infections. Phytomedicines are safer than chemical-based therapeutic agents due to their lower risk of side effects. Medicinal plant-based therapeutics therapy is rapid, sensitive, specific, economical, and readily available for all; therefore, ethnomedicine is gaining more interest worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 4000 million people regularly utilize medicinal plants to treat various illnesses. Allopathic drugs are accessible throughout the World. Medicinal herbs are still widely used, attributable to public trust in their therapeutic usefulness in many regions of the World. Almost 2000 ethnic groups have their traditional medical systems across the World. Ayurveda is one of India's most well-known ancient medical systems that has persevered and flourished over the centuries. Herbal products have been successfully employed in health treatment since ancient times. Trachyspermum ammi L. (Ajwain) is one of the famous medicinal plants belonging to the family Apiaceae. Trachyspermum ammi is a native plant to Egypt. Trachyspermum ammi is a popular seed spice crop in India. Trachyspermum ammi contains various bioactive components that have long been recognized for their medicinal and antimicrobial products. The present review describes the botanical, phytochemical, ethnomedicinal, and pharmacological information related to Trachyspermum ammi.

Molecular insights into binding of bioactive compounds from essential oil of Trachyspermum ammi with human programmed cell death protein 1

The human programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) is expressed on the surface of T cells and contributes significantly to tumor immunity. Herein, six major compounds (carvacrol, thymol, β-phellandrene, α-terpinene, myrcene D, and α-pinene) from Trachyspermum ammi were studied for their intermolecular interactions and stability against PD-1. All tested compounds displayed docking energy (-4.2 to −3.7 kcal/mol) with PD-1. The highest docking scores of −4.2 and −4.1 kcal/mol were recorded for carvacrol and thymol, respectively. Also, a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation predicted the stability of carvacrol- and thymol-docked PD-1 complex. Maximum of < 30 Å and < 12 Å root-mean-square deviation were observed for carvacrol and thymol at the end of the 100 ns simulation with respect to protein (Cα atoms), indicating retention and displacement of carvacrol and thymol from the initial binding pocket, respectively. Moreover, the endpoint binding free energies support the higher binding affinity of carvacrol (-22.87 ± 5.52 kcal/mol) than thymol (-16.83 ± 1.30 kcal/mol). The equicrural states of the respective ligands were supported by the respective root mean square fluctuation, where no significant deviations in the atoms of the ligands were observed. These findings suggest that carvacrol and thymol inhibit the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Relaxant effect of thymol on smooth muscle

Thymol is a phenolic monoterpene with colorless crystalline shapes or white crystalline powder with a spicy, caucasian and sweet taste. Its chemical structure is characterized by a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a benzene ring. It provides for the hydroxylation of P-cymine along with its carvacrol’s isomer. In this molecule different therapeutic properties have been registered in this molecule, such as spasmolytic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, fungicidal, antibacterial, antioxidant and hepatoprotective. This monoterpene is found in different species of the genus Thymus, especially T. Vulgaris and T. zigis with a percentage that fluctuates between 10% and 60% found in the aerial part of both plants, likewise, it is also found in Lagoecia cuminoides between a 73% and 95% and in Trachyspermum copticum between 37.2 and 72.3% in the seed and fruits of this plant. Studies on its beneficial effects on health have been carried out in different species, highlighting rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, human cell lines; distinguishing human studies have been conducted 3 studies to decrease the effects of asthma, antitussive and anti-inflammatory effect on the lungs. The aim of this narrative article is to describe the processes of contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle and the spasmolytic effect of thymol in different smooth muscle tissues in rats, mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. Through this research, it is suggested to the scientific community to study the possible mechanisms of action of this molecule in the different types of smooth muscle tissue for subsequent clinical studies

A Comparison of the Effect of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague) and Mefenamic Acid for Alleviating the Symptoms of Primary Dysmenorrhea: An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial

Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague (commonly known as ajwain) contains ingredients that attenuate menstrual problems, especially cramping. In this study, we evaluated the impact of ajwain on the pain intensity in a sample of Iranian female college students with primary dysmenorrhea (PD) in comparison to mefenamic acid (MFA). This study was an open-label, randomized, parallel-group clinical trial conducted in the university dormitories in Tehran, Iran, from September 2018 to May 2019. Seventy patients were randomly assigned to two groups of ajwain and MFA. The participants in the ajwain group were treated with a 500 mg ajwain capsule three times a day for seven days, from the 26th cycle day to the 3rd day of the menstrual cycle, for three consecutive cycle periods. The other group received MFA capsules with the first dose of 500 mg and then 250 mg every eight hours, if necessary, from the first day of the menstrual cycle. The two groups were compared in terms of the pain intensity by the visual analog scale (VAS) in pre-intervention cycle and three consecutive cycles during the study. Maximum pain intensity, mean pain, and duration of pain after the intervention were significantly reduced in both groups. The mean VAS score significantly decreased in the ajwain group compared to the MFA group post-intervention (p &lt; 0.02). Moreover, passing blood clots was significantly reduced in the ajwain group (p &lt; 0.03). The findings of this study suggest that ajwain may be effective in pain relief in PD without adverse effects.

Antimicrobial potentials of plant extracts against drug resistant bacteria

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious and growing threat to human health. The development of new antibiotics is limited and slow. The tradition of synergy in herbal medicine is being used as a source of research ideas. The in vitro findings were that most of the research reported synergy both within plants and between plants and antibiotics. Whole plant extracts and combinations of compounds were shown to be more effective antimicrobials than isolated constituents. New sources of antimicrobial drugs need to be identified and improved strategy should be developed to combat multidrug resistance problem in pathogenic bacteria. Plant extract and phytochemicals demonstrating antimicrobial action needs to be exploited for their synergistic action between extracts and with antibiotics to exploit it in modern phytomedicine and combinational therapy. In the present study alcoholic extracts of medicinal plants were screened for their antimicrobial efficacy against drug resistant bacteria. The extracts of Hemidesmus indicus,and Carum copticum, showed promising action against one or more drug resistant bacteria with MIC ranged from 0.53 mg/ml to 7.80 mg/ml which has indicated their potential to be exploited in antimicrobial therapy and combination drug therapy after careful evaluation in vivo model.

Phytochemical, Morphological, and Physiological Variation in Different Ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Populations as Affected by Salt Stress, Genotype × Year Interaction and Pollination System.

In the present research, 28 populations of ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi L.) were evaluated for agro-morphological traits and essential oil yield in two consecutive years. Then, selected ajowan populations from these two years were used for further morphophysiological and biochemical studies under different salinity levels (control, 60, 90, and 120 mM NaCl). The main components of the oil were thymol (32.7-54.29%), γ-terpinene (21.71-32.81%), and p-cymene (18.74-26.16%). Salt stress caused an increase in essential oil content in the Esfahfo and Qazvin populations. The highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found in the Arak population grown in 60 mM NaCl (183.83 mg TAE g-1 DW) and the Yazd population grown in 90 mM NaCl (5.94 mg QE g-1 DW). Moreover, the Yazd population exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity based on DPPH (IC50 = 1566 µg/mL) under 60 mM NaCl and the highest reducing power (0.69 nm) under 120 mM NaCl. The results revealed that low and moderate salt stress improves the phytochemicals of ajowan seeds, which are useful for pharmaceutical and food applications. In this research, some morphological traits, as well as essential oil yield, were evaluated in open pollinated versus self-pollinated plants. As a result, plant height, number of flowering branches, and crown diameter significantly decreased in some populations, while a significant increase was obtained for number of flowers per umbel and seed numbers per umbel. Finally, self-pollination of ajowan might provide new insights for further breeding programs to increase oil or thymol content in ajowan.