Chamomile Research Articles

Comparative Study of Rheological Properties of Gels and Creams on Different Carrier Bases

Introduction. The study of rheological properties (dynamic and plastic viscosity, yield strength, the degree and presence of a thixotropic effect, the nature of the type of flow) are important for the development of soft dosage forms. These properties affect the stability of the dosage form during storage, its technological and consumer characteristics .Aim. Study of the main rheological parameters of the developed gels and creams on various carrier bases.Materials and methods. Meloxicam as active ingredient and excipients: sodium alginate, twin-80, propylene glycol, cremophor, glycerin, essential oils of lemon and orange, carbopol 980, polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG-400), viburnum bark, chamomile flowers, chlorhexidine bigluconate 20 %, menthol, sorbitol, corn oil, distilled monoglycerides (MHD), cetyl alcohol, coconut oil, salicylic acid, emulsion wax, preparation OS-20, triethanolamine (TEA), and euxil PE 9010 were used for the preparation of ex[eroimental samples. Three laboratory samples of soft formulations with the mass of 100 g each were prepared. The rheological properties of the samples were tested 24 hours after their preparation using Anton Paar DV-2P viscometer (Anton Paar GmbH, Austria), spindle L4. The structural and mechanical properties of the samples were tested using a device designed at the St. Petersburg State Chemical and Pharmaceutical University under thesupervision of Professor, Doctor of Pharmaceutical Sciences V. A. Vainshtein.Results and discussion. The greatest mechanical stability was observed for the sample No. 1 (gel based on alginate) and sample No. 3 (cream). The ascending and descending hysteresis loop curves indicates that the test samples have thixotropic properties. Samples No. 1 and 2 have upward and downward flow curves superimposed on each other.This phenomenon is typical for all gels and is their feature. The relaxation of the structure of an elastic-plastic material after the deformation caused by the introduction of a tester stock occurs according to the logarithmic law. At rest, when the tester stockis not introduced into the material, the structure of tested samples is intact and samples has a maximum density (static viscosity). The introduction of the tester stock into the sample results in plastic deformation and forced flow. The tension at the moment of tester stock introduction reflects the yield strength.Further, with the immersed tester devoce, a thixotropic recovery of the destroyed structural bonds occurs. Such a pattern in the dynamics of structure resistance is observed for structured (non-Newtonian) liquids.Conclusion. The rheological properties of three experimental soft formulations made on different carrier bases were investigated. The importance of rheological studies in the drug development of high e quality soft formulations was shown.

Anxiolytic effect of Anthemis nobilis L. (roman chamomile) and Citrus reticulata Blanco (tangerine) essential oils using the light-dark test in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health condition, and anxiety is considered the sixth cause of disability surpassing diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and osteoarthritis. Besides, the COVID-19 pandemic provided an increase in the number of psychiatric diseases diagnosis in all social layers around the world. About 55%–94% of patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders are treated with benzodiazepines, meanwhile benzodiazepines can promote several adverse effects. In this way, alternative therapies, such as essential oils may offer significant benefits in the treatment of patients with anxiety disorders. However, the anxiolytic effect of these essential oils must be proper evaluated appropriate as well as the suitable dosage and side effect need further research. Aim of the studyThe aim was to evaluate the anxiolytic effect of Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis L.) and tangerine (Citrus reticulata Blanco) essential oils using the light-dark test in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Material and methodsBoth essential oils were analyzed by GC-MS and the major compounds were identified. The anxiolytic effect was evaluated by light-dark test in adult zebrafish. ResultsThe results showed that roman chamomile essential oil has anxiolytic effect in adult zebrafish, whereas tangerine essential oil tends to reduce anxiety The major compounds of tangerine essential oil were limonene and γ-terpinene, and the major compounds of roman chamomile were pentadecyl-3-methyl-2-butenoate, hexadecyl-3-methyl-2-butenoate, 1-piperidinol and trans-1-ethyl-3-methyl-cyclopentane. ConclusionsThe present study demonstrated that this anxiolytic effect may be attributed to the synergistic effect of the compounds present in roman chamomile essential oil, particularly the major compounds. The roman chamomile essential oil at the highest concentration showed anxiolytic effect. The tangerine essential oil showed a tendency to reduce anxiety, but it was not statistically significative. In addition, roman chamomile and tangerine essential oils did not cause cause alteration in locomotion activity and exploratory ability of the fish.

Efficacy of the extract of marshmallow root, chamomile flowers, horsetail herb, walnut leaves, yarrow herb, oak bark, and dandelion herb in preschool children with pharyngeal and/or palatine tonsil disorders and frequent recurrent respiratory infections

Background. Acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTIs) are common in children and can become recurrent, especially in patients with pharyngeal and/or palatine tonsil disorders.
 Aim. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the herbal medicine of marshmallow root, chamomile flowers, horsetail herb, walnut leaves, yarrow herb, oak bark and dandelion herb (Tonsilgon N) in preschool children with adenotonsillar disorders.
 Materials and methods. The study included 1876 children aged 2 to 5 years with a history of pharyngeal and/or palatine tonsil disorders and frequent recurrent respiratory infections. The subjects were randomized into two groups: Group 1 (n=940) received herbal medicine (10 drops 56 times daily) for 30 days, and Group 2 (n=936) received no additional medication. Efficacy and safety were evaluated after the therapy course and during the follow-up (3, 6, and 12 months after the treatment started). The assessment included nasopharyngeal endoscopy, cytological examination of nasal mucosa smears, measurement of soluble immunoglobulin A (sIgA) levels and lysozyme activity in nasal secretion.
 Results. After a course of therapy, a significant decrease in the incidence of AURTIs (p0.05), associated with a local immunity improvement, estimated by sIgA levels and lysozyme activity (p0.001 for both values versus the control group), was noted. By the end of the study, in 86.5% of patients of Group 1, the pharyngeal tonsil volume decreased from grade 2 to grade 1 of hypertrophy (p=0.000). The pharyngeal and palatine tonsil hypertrophy worsened in 83.6% of Group 2 patients.
 Conclusion. The study results showed that Tonsilgon N significantly reduced the incidence of AURTIs in children with pharyngeal and/or palatine tonsil disorders and frequent recurrent respiratory infections. This effect was associated with an increase in sIgA and lysozyme levels in the nasal secretion and a decrease in neutrophil counts, indicating an improvement in local immunity.

Valorisation of Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile L.) herb by comprehensive evaluation of hydrodistilled aroma and residual non-volatile fractions

Valorization of botanicals for the development of natural food-grade ingredients is an important task in terms of sustainability and processing waste reduction. In this study, Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile L.) herb was collected at six different vegetation phases in the period 26 May – 23 August 2019 and subjected to biorefining into the several valuable fractions. The yield of hydro-distilled essential oil (EO) was in the range of 0.22% (intensive vegetative growth) to 0.80% (full flowering). Angelic, isobutyric, butyric and methacrylic acid esters and some monoterpene and sesquiterpene derivatives were the major EO constituents: 3-methylpentyl angelate (20.11–27.56%), methallyl angelate (7.28–10.33%), isoamyl angelate (5.57–9.02%), isobutyl angelate (4.84–6.79%), 2-methylbutyl angelate (3.11–6.32%), 3-methylamyl methacrylate (5.04–6.17%), 3-methylpentyl isobutyrate (4.29–6.64%), 3-methylamyl isobutyrate (4.29–6.64%), α-pinene (1.61–6.37%) and pinocarvone (1.46–4.67%). In order to valorize water soluble and solid EO distillation residues their antioxidant potential was evaluated by several in vitro assays: water extracts were considerably stronger antioxidants than acetone extracts isolated from the solid residues. Water extracts of the plants collected at flowering phases were the strongest antioxidants; their TPC, FRAP and ORAC values were up to 143.2 mg gallic acid equivalents/g, 650, and 5601 μmol TE/g dry extract, respectively, while effective concentrations (EC50) of DPPH• and ABTS•+ scavenging, were down to 0.59 and 0.49 mg/mL, respectively. Among 7 tentatively identified by UPLC/Q-TOF/MS phenolic constituents the intensity of molecular ion of 3,5-dicaffeoyl quinic acid was the largest. The results obtained may assist for developing flavorings, antioxidants and health beneficial preparations from C. nobile extracts.

Antioxidant Activity and Profile of Phenolic Compounds in Selected Herbal Plants

Herbs are characterized by a high content of biologically active substances that positively affect human health. Phenolic compounds are one of the main bioactive compounds in these plants with highly beneficial properties (e.g., anti-carcinogenic, cardioprotective, immune system support and antibacterial). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the composition of free and bound phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in 10 different herbs (bogbean leaves, sage leaves, whole Indian hemp, whole heartsease, whole horsetail, whole blessed thistle, whole thyme, chamomile flower, corn silk and pine buds). Phenolic compounds were analyzed using the HPLC-TOF-MS/MS method, total phenolic (TP) and flavonoid (TF) contents were measured using spectrophotometric methods, while antioxidant activity was determined by ABTS and DPPH assays. The highest content of free TP was found in thyme, while sage was characterized by the highest range of these compounds released from ester and glycosidic derivatives by hydrolysis. In turn, the highest values of TF in non-hydrolyzed extracts were found in Indian hemp. The highest values of TF, including bound phenols were observed in extracts obtained from sage leaves. In the analyzed herbs thirty-three phenolic compounds were found, constituting 16 phenolic acids, 9 flavonoids and eight stilbenes. Moreover, the analyzed compounds appeared in the bound form than in the free form. The antioxidant activity of herb extracts differed significantly across varieties (P < 0.05). The research showed that each tested herb possesses its own fingerprint of phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties.

Ecofungicides as growth stimulants in Lactuca sativa L.

Lactuca sativa commonly known as lettuce is a food that provides few calories due to its high water content and fewer carbohydrates, proteins and fats. The main problem with this crop is that during its cycle it is attacked by a range of fungi (Fusarium spp., Pythium sp., Alternaria alternata., among others) and bacteria (Erwinia sp, Burkholderia sp, among others); this leads to excess use of pesticides, economic losses and damage to the environment. Therefore, sustainable control strategies are sought to mitigate the spread of diseases and stimulate the optimal development of the plant. Ecofungicides were made based in: Ricinus communis “higuerilla”; Chamaemelum nobile “manzanilla” with Allium sativum “ajo”; Ruta graveolens “ruda”; as well as Bordeaux broth as a craft product and a synthetic product. The randomized complete block experimental design and the Tukey multiple means comparison (p≤0.05) showed tha in Ricinus communis based ecofungicide favors, on average, the height per plant (18.89 cm), the diameter per plant (36.29 cm); the number of leaves per plant (15.50 cm), the leaf width (19.85), the leaf length (17.76 cm) and therefore, a final weight of 1.43 kg per healthy plant was reported. It´s concluded that higuerilla treatment at a dose of 0.33 ml in 1 liter of water increases the productivity of Lactuca sativa L. and decreases the incidence of phytopathogenic fungi.

FORMULATION GEL SELF NANOEMULSIFYING DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM (SNEDDS) ALPHA-BISABOLOL AS ANTIOXIDANT

Objective: Alpha-Bisabolol is monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol obtained from the distillation of chamomile flowers (Matricaria chamomilla), that has many uses in the pharmaceutical industry, one of them is an antioxidant. Alpha-Bisabolol was formulated into Self Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SNEDDS) to protect it from oxidation reactions in skin metabolism and to help penetrate it to the dermis layer where it works. The purpose of this study is to develop the use of Alpha-Bisabolol as an antioxidant that is formulated into SNEDDS gel dosage form. Optimization of SNEDDS was carried out on four formulas with a different comparison of surfactant and use of percent transmittance as the parameter.&#x0D; Methods: Optimum SNEDDS is then tested for characterization, including dispersibility test, particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and freeze-thaw cycle. The result for SNEDDS optimization shows that formula 4 produces the highest percent transmittance of 99.44±0.04%.&#x0D; Results: Optimum formula that was characterized resulting clear nanoemulsion with an emulsification time 29.64±0.09 second, with the particle size of 16.74 nm, PDI of 0.121, and zeta potential of-18.7 mV also shows good stability after freeze-thaw cycle test for three cycles. Optimum SNEDDS then formulate to gel form. Based on the result of the physical and chemical quality evaluation test for Alpha-Bisabolol SNEDDS gel, it was found that SNEDDS gel was homogeneous with a clear yellowish appearance, odorless with semi-solid form, had viscosity 180±2 cP with plastic thixotropy flow properties, spreadability 2937.7691±2.40 mm2 and pH 5.55±0.015.&#x0D; Conclusion: It can be concluded that Alpha-Bisabolol and SNEDDS Alpha-Bisabolol gel have antioxidant activity with IC50 of 123.78 g/ml and 371.44 g/ml, respectively.

Intergeneric hybridization of marguerite (Argyranthemum frutescens (L.) Sch. Bip.) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All.) using ovule culture and confirmation of hybridity.

To introduce useful characteristics such as fragrance into Argyranthemum frutescens (L.) and to expand the variation, we conducted crosses using A. frutescens as the seed parent and Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All. as the pollen parent. All the tested cross combinations between the three strains of A. frutescens and one strain of C. nobile produced embryos, and healthy plants were obtained by ovule culture. The obtained plantlets had a white ray floret, and the leaf shape was intermediate to those of the parents. The individuals obtained from this cross were subjected to two methods to determine hybridity: flow cytometry analyses and cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) markers. For the CAPS marker, we selected the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, which is highly variable among the genera, as the region to be amplified. We selected restriction enzymes BmgT120 I and Afl II, which selectively cut common sequences in the genus Argyranthemum, based on the sequence analysis of one parent strain each of A. frutescens and C. nobile and alignment with known sequences of related species. Flow cytometry analyses and CAPS markers revealed that the individuals obtained from the cross between A. frutescens and C. nobile are intergeneric hybrids. In addition, these established methods were capable of quickly and reliably identifying hybrids between A. frutescens and C. nobile. This report shows for the first time that crossbreeding between A. frutescens (seed parent) and C. nobile (pollen parent) is possible, and further development of Argyranthemum breeding, such as the expansion of variation by intergeneric crosses, is expected.

Ziołolecznictwo w infekcjach wirusowych

The study is a review of natural raw materials that can prevent infection and help treat viral infections, including those that cause COVID-19. The condition of not getting infected with pathogens that cause infections of the upper and lower respiratory tract is high the body resistance. An important element that influences the proper immunity of the body is the diet. The functioning of the immune system is improved by bee products, and plant materials: purple coneflower herb, flower and root, licorice root, aloe gel and Baikal skullcap root, as well as black cumin seed oil, chaga mushroom, lemon balm leaves and chamomile flowers. Strengthening immunity is conducive to maintaining a good mood and reducing stress. The antiviral activity has been confirmed for many plant materials, especially those containing essential oils. Natural products can be used for prevention and treatment. The country that copes best with the coronavirus epidemic is China, thanks to a combination of academic and natural medicine. The study quotes an excerpt from the “Handbook of COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment”, prepared by Chinese doctors, with particular attention to the recipes used by them.

Рharmaceutical-technological Study of Adsorbed Liquid Plant Extract of Antimicrobial Activity

Introduction. The use of a combined herbal extract of chamomile flowers, calendula flowers and yarrow herb (patent RU 1 561 262 C) can be effective against various microbial strains, including those causing inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity. The article presents the results of a comparative pharmaceutical and technological study of an adsorbed liquid plant extract on sorbents of various nature for subsequent introduction into the composition of orodispersible tablets. Aim. To select the optimal sorbent of liquid plant extract of chamomile flowers, calendula and yarrow herb ensuring the suitability of the active pharmaceutical ingredient for direct compression, by analyzing using the SeDeM expert system method. Materials and methods. Active pharmaceutical ingredient was adsorbed on organic (microcrystalline celluloses of various brands) and inorganic (colloidal silicon dioxide of various brands) sorbents, a liquid combined plant extract of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action of chamomile flowers, calendula flowers and yarrow herb. Pharmaceutical-technological analysis included the study of such technological parameters as: Bulk Density ( Da = m / Va ), Tapped Density ( Dc = m / Vc ), Inter-particle Porosity (Ie = ( Dc – Da)/(Dc · Da )), Carr index (IC = (Dc – Da )/( Dc · 100)), Cohesion Index (Icd), Hausner Index ratio (IH = Dc / Da ), Angle of Repose ( Tg α = h / r ), Powder Flow ( t ), Loss of Drying (%LoD), Hygroscopicity ( %H), Particles &lt;50 μm (%Pf), Homogeneity Index ( I Θ = Fm /100 + ∆ Fmn a ). Results and discussion. A comprehensive pharmaceutical-technological study of sorbents of liquid plant extract before and after adsorption was carried out, the results of which were processed and presented by the SeDeM expert system method. It was found that the adsorption of the extract has a positive effect on the Dimension ( ID = ( Da · Dc )/2) of all studied sorbents which may be related to change in the fractional composition due to the aggregation of small particles during adsorption and destruction of large ones when sifting the finished mixtures through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 200 μm (recommended insoluble particle size for use in the oral cavity). A negative effect on the Stability (IS = (%LoD · %H)/2 ) was also recorded for all samples, regardless of their nature, which is probably explained by residual moisture after drying and high hygroscopicity of adsorbed plant bioactive substances. Changes in the Compressibility (IC = (Ie · IC · Icd)/3), Flowability (IF = (IH · α · t )/3) and Dosage (IDos = (%Pf · I Θ )/2) are individual. Conclusion. The SeDeM expert system method makes it possible to characterize bulk materials from the point of view of suitability for direct compression, to establish the factors that need to be primarily corrected by the introduction of auxiliary substances. As a result of the conducted studies, Aeroperl 300 (inorganic sorbent) and Pharmacel 112 (organic sorbent) can be recommended for the introduction of liquid plant extract of chamomile flowers, calendula flowers and yarrow herb into the composition of orodispersible tablets.

Protective Role of Eupafolin against Tumor, Inflammation, Melanogenesis, Viral Disease and Renal Injury: Pharmacological and Analytical Aspects through Scientific Data Analysis

Background: Plant derived natural products have been always used in medicine for the treatment of human disorders due to their pharmacological activities and safety profile. Plant derived natural products have been used in food, Nutraceuticals and medicine for the better growth and development. Phytoconstituents are pure chemicals derived from various plant material and some of the best examples are tannins, alkaloids, terpenes, terpenoids, coumarins, polysaccharides, glycosides, flavonoids and phenols. Flavonoids are pure phytochemicals present in plants and their derived products and examples are eupafolin, kaempferol, quercetin, apigenin, myricetin, and luteolin. Flavonoids have different pharmacological activities due to their unique chemical structure and ring substitution. MethodS: In the present investigation, various scientific databases, including PubMed, Google, Science Direct and Scopus, have been searched to collect all the needed information of eupafolin. The biological potential and pharmacological activities of eupafolin have been investigated in the present work through literature data analysis of eupafolin through different scientific works. Detailed pharmacological activities of eupafolin have been collected and analyzed in the present work to know their effectiveness in the medicine for the treatment of human disorders. The importance of analytical techniques for the separation, identification and quantification of eupafolin in medicinal plants has been also investigated in the present work through literature data analysis. Results: Analysis of scientific databases revealed that eupafolin is a flavonoid class phytochemical found to be present in Arnica chamissonis, Arnica Montana, Artemisia mongolica, Artemisia princeps, Artemisia scoparia, Chamaemelum nobile, Dimerostemma vestitum, Eupatorium cannabinum, Eupatorium perfoliatum, Gaillardia aristata, Kalanchoe brasiliensis, Kalanchoe pinnata, Korscheltellus gracilis, Lantana montevidensis, Lippia canescens, Lippia dulcis, Phyla nodiflora and Salvia officinalis. Scientific research data analysis revealed the biological importance of eupafolin in medicine due to its anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-oxidant activity. However its potential on melanogenesis, cardiomyocytes, cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, glutamate release has been also mentioned in the scientific research work. The study of analytical data revealed the importance of Gas chromatography, GC-MS, HPLC-DAD, HPLC-UV, TLC and UHPLC-MS for qualitative and quantitative analysis of eupafolin in the medicine and other allied health sectors. Conclusion: Eupafolin has a very impressive pharmacological profile and could be used against different types of human disorders.

Aqueous-based Nanoemulsion Containing (-)-α-bisabolol for Topical Treatment of Skin Burns

Background: α-Bisabolol (BIS) is a sesquiterpene extracted from the chamomile flowers, whose use to topically treat burn skin has been reported. High lipophilicity of BIS, however, is a problem for both skin application and washing. Objective: The present study aimed to prepare and characterize a stable and safe aqueous-based nanoemulsion to incorporate BIS and favor skin penetration focusing on skin burns' topical treatment. Method: Oil-in-water nanoemulsions were obtained from a pseudo-ternary phase diagram. The selected nanoemulsion was characterized (droplet size, PDI, and zeta potential), and the stability was assessed for 60 days at 6ºC and room temperature. The irritability of the formulation was determined by HET-CAM. Skin permeation studies were carried out in vitro intact skin, hot wa-ter burn skin, and hot plate burn skin. Results: The nanoemulsion incorporated 1% (w/w) BIS, presented droplets' size of 14.0±0.8 nm (PDI= 0.13±0.02), the zeta potential of +7.5±1.9 mV, and was physically stable over 60 days. The HET-CAM did not show any irritability process provided by the nanoformulation. In the skin permeation experiments, when compared to an oily control solution of BIS, nanoemulsion increased 3.7-fold penetration of the drug in intact skin, likely because the nanoformulation act-ed as an absorption drug enhancer. On a hot water burn skin model, the increase in drug pene-tration was 1.7-fold, and in the hot plate burn skin, it was 2.3-fold. Conclusion: The nanoemulsion seems to be a promising alternative for skin burns' topical treatment using this natural active.

Thyroid Disorder: An Overview

The Asteraceae family's chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) may be a well-known medicinal plant. Chamaemelum nobile, also referred to as Roman chamomile, is usually referred to as real chamomile or sweet false chamomile. Effect of sweet false chamomile extract on linearincisional wound healing was studied. The article briefly review on the medicinal and cosmetic benefits of matricaria. The major medicinal uses of this plant is antiinflammatory, antidiarrheal, antacid. chamoline as an cosmetic ingredient is good for skin and hair. Mouthwashes and tooth pase also contain chamomile as an ingredient. Chamomile also have antioxidant property. It treat gastrointestinal problem by acting as purgative and also use to treat acidity. It promotes wound healing effect in the case of cradle and bunions. The flavonoids apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, patuletin, and volatile oil compounds like bisabolol and its oxides, also as azulenes, are liable for chamomile's biological action. There are several chamomile chemocultivars. Chamomile is anti-inflammatory, deodorant, antibacterial, carminative, sedative, antiseptic, anticatarrhal, and spasmolytic.

Використання інгаляцій фітопрепаратами при ускладненнях гострих респіраторних вірусних захворювань

У статті наведено методи інгаляційної фітотерапії таких ускладнень гострих респіраторних захворювань, як гострий риніт, гострий фарингіт, гострий бронхіт у дітей і дорослих. Виділено показання і протипоказання до проведення інгаляційної фітотерапії при ускладненнях гострих респіраторних вірусних захворювань. Відзначаються правила призначення інгаляцій лікарськими рослинами дітям і дорослим. У статті наведені збори лікарських трав для інгаляцій при лікуванні гострих ринітів, гострих фарингітів, гострих бронхітів, правила приготування відварів для інгаляцій, частота використання дорослим і дітям інгаляцій на день, тривалість курсу інгаляційної терапії. Також в статті наведені запобіжні заходи при використанні різних методів інгаляційної терапії. Стаття містить рекомендації щодо використання зборів лікарських трав для інгаляцій при сухому і вологому кашлі при гострих бронхітах у дітей і дорослих. Окремо виділені рекомендації щодо використання інгаляційної терапії для вагітних в разі захворювання на гострі вірусні інфекції та ускладнення. Дано рекомендації щодо лікарських трав, що категорично протипоказані вагітним, а також вказані збори трав, що рекомендуються вагітним.

Antioxidant properties of medicinal plants and their effect on microbial spoilage of semi-finished meat, poultry and fish

Plant extracts rich in polyphenols can be used in the food industry as natural preservatives, extending the shelf life of prepared and semi-finished foods without chemical preservatives. In this paper, we investigate the polyphenolic composition, antioxidant activity and antibacterial properties of herbal extracts as part of food systems. The research objects were knot grass (Polýgonum aviculáre), marjoram (Oríganum), bur beggar-ticks (Bídenstripartíta), thyme (Thymus), whortleberry leaves (Vaccínium ida vítis), calendula (Calendula), sage (Salvia), chamomile flowers (Matricāriachamomīlla), eucalyptus (Eucalýptus) and bearberry (Arctostáphylosúva-úrsi). We determined the total content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids; the antioxidant activity by DPPH and FRAP methods; variations in the bacterial сontamination of animal raw materials over total bacterial count (TBC), coliform bacteria, yeast/fungi, salmonella and staphylococcus. Extracts of sage (1138±57 mg GA/100 g and 537±25 mg C/100 g), eucalyptus (1073±49 mg GA/100 g and 412±20 mg C/100 g), chamomile flowers (1002±36 mg GA/100 g and 493±22 mg C/100 g) and marjoram (1015±42 mg GA/100 g and 458±21 mg C/100 g) contain the largest amount of biologically active substances (phenols and flavonoids, respectively). Sage, eucalyptus and chamomile extracts demonstrate the highest antioxidant activity among the studied samples. Most of the studied extracts exhibit little or no effect on the organoleptic properties of finished products. In addition, chamomile flower, sage and eucalyptus extracts suppress the growth of pathogenic microorganisms in foods under experimental conditions. The microflora growth is significantly reduced when treating animal raw materials with calendula flowers, marjoram and thyme extracts. Extracts of sage, chamomile flowers, calendula flowers, marjoram and thyme can be recommended as components of food raw materials.

Reactive oxygen species: Key players in the anticancer effects of apigenin?

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) exhibit a double-edged sword in cancer-hence their modulation has been an attractive strategy in cancer prevention and therapy. The abundance of scientific information on the pro-oxidant effects of apigenin in cancer cells suggests the crucial role of ROS in its mechanisms of action. Although apigenin is known to enhance the cellular ROS levels to cytotoxic degrees in cancer cells in vitro, it remains to be determined if these pro-oxidant effects prevail or are relevant in experimental tumor models and clinical trials. Here, we critically examine the pro-oxidant and antioxidant effects of apigenin in cancer to provide insightful perspectives on the association between its ROS-modulating action and anticancer potential. We also discussed these effects in a cell/tissue type-specific context to highlight the factors influencing the switch between antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects. Finally, we raised some questions that need addressing for the potential translation of these studies into clinical applications. Further research into this duality in oxidant actions of apigenin, especially in vivo, may enable better exploitation of its anticancer potential. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Apigenin is a naturally occurring compound found in chamomile flowers, parsley, celery, peppermint, and citrus fruits. Many human trials of dietary interventions with apigenin-containing herbs and flavonoid mixture on oxidative stress markers, for instance, point to their antioxidant effects and health benefits in many diseases. Preclinical studies suggest that apigenin alone or its combination with chemotherapeutics has a strong anti-neoplastic effect and can induce ROS-mediated cytotoxicity at concentrations in the micromolar (μM) range, which may not be feasible with dietary interventions. Enhancing the in vivo pharmacokinetic properties of apigenin may be indispensable for its potential cancer-specific pro-oxidant therapy and may provide relevant information for clinical studies of apigenin either as a single agent or an adjuvant to chemotherapeutics.

Biostimulants Enhance Bioactive Constituents of Chamomile in Different Intercropping Systems with Garlic. A Case Study

Chamomile essential oil (EO) and garlic are extensively used in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceutical industries owing to some important active substances that they contain. The effects of different concentrations of Aminol Forte (AmFo) as a plant biostimulant (PB) were assessed on the yield and bioactive constituents of chamomile, when intercropped with garlic, in a field-based trial at Darab Agricultural Research Station (DARS), Fars province, Iran. The trial was set up as a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The first factor was the cropping system (CS) at seven levels, and the second factor was the foliar application of AmFo at three concentrations, including 0% (as control), 0.25%, and 0.5%. During two years of the research (2017/2018 and 2018/2019), changes in fresh weight (FW), dry weight (DW), and bioactive constituents were monitored. Compared with the chamomile monocropping (CS1), the intercropping treatments significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the chamomile flower yields. However, there were no significant differences between the CS1 and CS3 treatments in FW and DW. Unlike FW and DW, the CS treatments had no effect on the bioactive constituents, and no significant difference (p < 0.05) was found among CS treatments. It was found that the biostimulant treatments had no significant effects on the chamomile flower yields, but they elevated the average level of bioactive constituents. These treatments significantly increased the level of chamazulene, α-bisabolol, α-phellandrene, β-bisabolene, and farnesene by 24.47, 11.99, 18.50, 13.41, and 29.32%, respectively. On the other hand, the average levels of α-bisabolol oxide-A, α-bisabolol oxide-B, and linalool were significantly decreased by 19.66, 41.41, and 4.26%, respectively. In general, co-application of AmFo and intercropping can be recommended as an alternative to reduce the demand for chemical fertilizers and improve EO quality.

Current research opportunities for potential phytotherapeutic agents for the treatment of pathologies of the female reproductive system

Introduction and aim. Herbal medicine is prescribed for various disorders of the menstrual cycle (uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea), for the treatment of premenstrual and climacteric syndromes, inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, mastopathy and mastalgia and other pathological conditions. The aim of the study is to analysis and generalization of data from professional literature and own experience in the treatment of patients with pathologies of the female reproductive system by phytotherapeutic methods, taking into account the influence of medicinal plants on various links in the pathogenesis of the disease, as well as making recommendations for improvement and prospects for the use of phytotherapy in the treatment of this pathology. Material and methods. To make an analysis of literary sources of domestic and foreign authors about usage of medicinal plants for the treatment of pathologies of the female reproductive system. Analysis of the literature. In the treatment of primary (spasmodic) dysmenorrhea, herbal remedies with an antispasmodic, analgesic, hormone-mimetic effects are prescribed. It can be Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.), Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, Viburnum, Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris), Greater celandine, Atropa belladonna, Hyoscyamus niger, commonly known as henbane, black henbane, or stinking nightshade and Abraham’s tree. Many plants have bactericidal activity, and this property is used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the mucous membranes and skin. Such properties are possessed by flowers of Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.), Calendula officinalis, infusion of Medicinal sage (Salvia officinalis L.). For the treatment of functional hyperprolactinemia phytopreparations are also successfully used. It is known that the medicinal plant Vitex agnus castus has dopaminergic properties, selectively blocking prolactin synthesis, and reduces follicle stimulating hormone levels. Strychnos ignatia, Caulophyllum thalictroides, European cyclamen, Lilium tigrinum, Iris versicolor provide a complex effect on the female body, effectively reduces the level of prolactin and the severity of mastalgia, which is confirmed not only by clinical data, but also by mammography data in fibrocystic breast disease. For the treatment of climacteric syndrome, a large number of medicinal plants are used, in particular, the most popular is the Cimicifuga racemose. Conclusion. The effectiveness of phytotherapeutic drugs has been verified by many clinical trials. Modern phytotherapy is becoming more widespread in clinical practice, as an alternative to drug treatment.

Exploring the potential of total polyphenols in the leaves of berry plants for a healthy diet

Today, most researchers believe that polyphenols have wide-ranging applications and protect the human body from many diseases. This paper studies the total phenolic content (TPC) and the content of heavy metals in the selected leaves of plants that athletes actively use as a supplement to a healthy diet. For analysis, blackberry, raspberry, currant, and hawthorn leaves are used, and green tea, black tea, and chamomile flowers are used for comparison of characteristics. The extractive and total content of phenols in the vegetative part of berry crops are the most favorable indicators for fortifying sports nutrition products because these indicators are comparable to that of green and black tea. Berries and fruits have small antioxidant capacities, since they have high sugar content. Sugar provides high extractability but does not contribute to antioxidant effectiveness.

PHYTONICIDIC PROPERTIES OF PLANTS REGARDING FUNGI OF THE ASPERGILLUS GENUS

Poultry breeding is a powerful branch of the agricultural sector. Many types of cereal crops, which make up the fodder base used for feeding poultry, can be infected with spores of Aspergillus fungi. This leads to a high level of morbidity and serious economic losses in farms of various types. The relevanvce of the topic is represented due to the necessity of finding of effective ways to fight or suppress the development of fungi of the genus Aspergillus with the help of certain plants and their phytoncide properties in relation to a certain genus of fungi. Purpose: to analyze the phytoncide properties of plants against fungi of the genus Aspergillus. Research methods: cultivationof Aspergillus fumigatus is carried out on Chapek agar. In the research process, the method of paper discs and diffusion in agar were implemeneted. The peculiarities of the conducted research on determination of fungicidal activity of such medicinal plants as black walnut and walnut (leaves and fruits of milk-wax and full ripeness), rosehip (dried fruits and roots), carnation (fruits), calendula (flowers), turmeric, chamomile (flowers) on the variety of fungi Aspergillus were described. For each plant used, the botanical characteristics were given and the chemical composition was indicated. By studying the effect of aqueous tinctures of medicinal plants on the studied microbial cultures, high fungicidal activity of tinctures of walnut fruits and leaves and black walnut fruits and leaves was established. In our experimental conditions, the nature of growth in comparison with the control is heterogeneous, the colonies are flat, in Aspergillus fumigatus completely colorless, in Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus discoloration of colonies was observed in the sectors of interaction with aqueous extracts of medicinal substances. For all other medicinal plants used in the experiment, a low effect on microbial cultures was recorded.