Chemical Composition Of Different Parts Research Articles

Pistacia lentiscus: Phytochemistry and Antidiabetic Properties

Pistacia lentiscus L. (P. lentiscus) is an evergreen shrub (Anacardiaceae family) primarily found in the Mediterranean region. The plant has been thoroughly characterized, resulting in a high concentration of bioactive compounds as flavonoids and phenolics. Moreover, P. lentiscus was revealed to possess a great nutritional and industrial importance because of its variety of biological activities, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic and antioxidant properties. Many of its beneficial health properties and applications date back to antiquity, and the European Medicines Agency officially acknowledged it as an herbal medicinal product. Indeed, it is widely employed in conventional medicine to treat several diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). On this basis, this review aims to summarize and describe the chemical composition of different parts of the plant and highlight the potential of P. lentiscus, focusing on its antidiabetic activities. The plant kingdom is drawing increasing attention because of its complexity of natural molecules in the research of novel bioactive compounds for drug development. In this context, P. lentiscus demonstrated several in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic effects, acting upon many therapeutic T2D targets. Therefore, the information available in this review highlighted the multitarget effects of P. lentiscus and its great potential in T2D treatment.

Physiological responses of young cacao trees to soil water deficiency as affected by Pb pollution and Fe availability

Plants are subject to various abiotic stresses such as water shortage and exposure to heavy metals, such as Pb in soil. These types of stress trigger a series of plant responses, ranging from a decrease in leaf gas exchange, an increase in lipid peroxidation, and even changes in the chemical composition of leaves and roots. As an essential micronutrient, Fe is involved in several physiological and biochemical processes in plants, such as photosynthetic activity, directly participating in chlorophyll synthesis and electron transport, being necessary for the maintenance of the structure and functioning of chloroplasts. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the action of Fe in mitigating Pb toxicity in young plants of the CCN 51 cacao genotype, subjected to water deficit in the soil, through photosynthetic responses and analysis of the chemical composition of different parts of the plant. Plants were grown with Pb (2 mmol Pb kg-1 soil) and different equimolar doses of Pb+Fe in the soil (2+0.5, 2+1, 2+1.5 and 2+2 mmol kg−1 soil), maintaining constant the Pb dose, whose soil was subjected to water deficit, with gradual reduction of water content, or its moisture was maintained near to field capacity, making a total of 12 treatments, together with the control treatment (without addition of Pb and Fe in soil). It was observed that the greater Fe absorbing, by the root system, mitigated the Pb toxicity. Fe application, in adequate dose in soil (2 mmol Pb kg-1 soil + 0.5 mmol Fe kg−1 soil), mitigated the toxic effects caused by Pb and water deficit in the plants, through the greater Fe taking up and translocation for the shoot in Pb detriment. Greater Pb translocation and accumulation in the leaves caused damage to leaf gas exchange and to the accumulation of carbohydrates in leaves. Fe and Pb applied in soil competed with each other for root absorbing regardless of soil water conditions.

Chemical characterization, multivariate analysis and comparison of biological activities of different parts of Fraxinus mandshurica.

Fraxinus mandshurica (Oleaceae) is used as a traditional medicinal plant for the treatment of red eyes, menstrual disorders, excessive leucorrhea, chronic bronchitis and psoriasis. To perform chemical characterization of the secondary metabolites of F. mandshurica roots, bark, stems and leaves, 32 samples were collected from eight provinces in this study. A total of 64 chemical components were detected from four different parts of F. mandshurica by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Meanwhile, a total of nine secoiridoids were obtained by natural product chemical extraction, isolation and identification methods. Quantitative analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection-mass spectrometry showed the highest total content of secoiridoids in the bark, which is also consistent with the traditional medicinal parts. The results of methodological validation showed that the correlation coefficient (R2 ) values were all >0.9993, indicating a good linear range of the standard curve, while the relative standard deviations of precision, reproducibility and stability were <3%, and the spiked recoveries ranged from 98.22 to 102.27%, indicating that the experimental method was reliable and stable. In addition, fingerprinting and a heatmap were established to demonstrate the content trends of F. mandshurica more visually from different origins. Multivariate analysis, including principal component analysis and partial least squares discriminant analysis, was performed to determine the chemical characteristics of different parts of F. mandshurica, and six characteristic secoiridoids that could be used to distinguish different origins were screened. Finally, the inhibition of tyrosinase, α-glucosidase, acetylcholinesterase and pancreatic lipase activities by the nine characteristic compounds and extracts from different parts were investigated, and the results showed that they all exhibited different degrees of enzyme activity inhibition and thus have potential applications in whitening and blemish removal, hypoglycemia, anti-Alzheimer's disease and anti-obesity as a new source of natural enzyme activity inhibitors. This study establishes an identification and evaluation method applicable to phytochemistry of different origins, which is a guideline for quality control, origin evaluation and clinical application of traditional medicinal plants. This is also an unprecedented study on the identification of the chemical composition of different parts of F. mandshurica, characteristic compounds and the inhibition of enzyme activity of extracts from different parts.

Prospects for the creation of new phytochemical medicinal products based on Myrtus communis L. (a review)

The number of medicinal products based on biologically active substances (BAS) of plant origin is increasing every year. Scientists are exploring non-official plant raw materials used in non-traditional medicine to expand the raw material base for creating new phytopreparations. Among numerous plants, common myrtle (Myrtus communis L.), which is a fairly common indoor plant, is recognized as a valuable source of BAS. The aim of the work is to analyze and summarize new literature data on the botanical characteristics, chemical composition, pharmacological and toxicological properties of Myrtus communis L. Materials and methods. Data were collected from several legitimate databases and services such as PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate using the key terms “Myrtus communis L.”, “botanical characteristics”, “pharmacological studies”, “phytochemical studies” in each database data Relevant and related data were filtered as appropriate if deemed relevant to the topic of interest. Time frames have also been adjusted to provide up-to-date information. Results. Myrtus communis L., commonly known as common myrtle, is a widely recognized medicinal plant in the Mediterranean region. Various parts of this plant, including the leaves, fruits, and flowers, have been used in traditional medicine for treating a wide range of ailments. The pharmacological properties of common myrtle are attributed to the presence of essential oils and phenolic compounds, and these properties include antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, antispasmodic, vasodilator, antiulcer, antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects. This article offers an overview of the botanical characteristics and chemical composition of different parts of common myrtle, and it presents a literature review of pharmacological studies that provide evidence for the plant’s medicinal properties. Conclusions. Common myrtle is a promising plant for further pharmacognostic research with the aim of expanding the raw material base, using the method of clonal micropropagation and creating new phytopreparations based on it.

Characterization of the chemical composition of different parts of Dolichos lablab L. and revelation of its anti-ulcerative colitis effects by modulating the gut microbiota and host metabolism

Ethnopharmacological relevanceUlcerative colitis (UC) is a non-specific inflammatory disease characterized by long duration and easy relapse. Dolichos lablab L. (DLL) belongs to the family Fabaceae, was listed in a famous Chinese medical classic, Compendium of Materia Medic, and described as possessing features that invigorate the spleen, alleviate dampness, provide diarrhea relief, and other effects. The DLL-dried white mature seeds (DS) and dried flower (DF), which hold significant medicinal value in China, were used in clinical prescriptions to prevent and treat UC. DS and DF have appeared in different editions of the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China from 1977 to 2020. However, their chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and mechanism of treating UC are unclear. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to characterize the chemical composition of different parts of DLL (seeds and flowers), further explore their pharmacological effects, and elaborate its underlying mechanism of treating UC. MethodsThe chemical composition of DS and DF crude polysaccharides (DSP and DFP) and ethanolic extracts (DSE and DFE) were characterized by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography (HPAEC), ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Then, based on the acute UC mice model, the pharmacodynamic effects were investigated by Western blotting, ELISA, and other methods. Finally, the 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabonomic analysis were used to explore the regulatory effects of DS and DF on intestinal microbiota and host metabolism. ResultsDSE and DFE inhibited the oxidative stress response, reducing proinflammatory factor production and maintaining intestinal barrier integrity in UC mice. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabonomic analysis revealed that DS and DF treated UC by regulating the intestinal microbiota structure and reversing the abnormal metabolism of the host. ConclusionThis study suggested that different parts of DLL (flowers and seeds) may be potential medicines for treating UC, which exert their therapeutic effects through various active ingredients and might contribute significantly to reducing the economic pressures and challenges of UC treatment worldwide.

Silage Fermentation on Sweet Sorghum Whole Plant for Fen-Flavor Baijiu.

The technology for producing bioethanol from sweet sorghum stalks by solid-state fermentation has developed rapidly in recent years, and has many similarities with traditional Chinese liquor production. However, the product from sweet sorghum stalks was lacking in volatile flavors, and the level of harmful contents were uncertain, therefore it could not be sold as liquor. In this study, the protein, fat, and tannin in the clusters and leaves of sweet sorghum were utilized to increase the content of flavor compounds in the ethanol product through the anaerobic fermentation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Meanwhile, the silage fermentation method was used to extend the preservation time of the raw materials and to further enhance the flavors of Fen-flavor liquor, with ethyl acetate as the characteristic flavor. The effects of different feedstock groups on ethyl acetate, ethyl lactate, methanol, acetaldehyde, acetal, fusel oil, total acid, and total ester were evaluated by analyzing the chemical composition of different parts of sweet sorghum and determined by gas chromatograph. The effect of different fermentation periods on the volatile flavor of sweet sorghum Baijiu was evaluated. The yield of the characteristic volatile flavor was increased by the extension of the fermentation time. Sweet sorghum Baijiu with a high ester content can be used as a flavoring liquor, blended with liquor with a shorter fermentation period to prepare the finished Fen-flavor Baijiu, conforming to the Chinese national standard for sale.

DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS OF MACRO- AND MICROELEMENTS IN THE “SOIL – PLANT” SYSTEM IN THE MIDDLE TAIGA OF EASTERN FENNOSCANDIA

The distribution patterns of macro- and microelements in the “soil – plant” system were studied in different aqueo-glacial plain landscapes and geochemical environments in the middle taiga of Eastern Fennoscandia, in the Kivach Strict Nature Reserve. Data on the chemical composition of different parts of dominant plant species are provided. Mosses and lichens are noted for low ash content and relatively low concentrations of macro- and microelements. The low content of heavy metals (nickel, copper, chromium, cobalt) indicates the absence of air-borne industrial pollution in the study area. Dwarf shrubs of the genus Vaccinium are phylogenetically specialized – bilberry and cowberry are calciphagous and accumulate manganese. Pine needles contain equal amounts of potassium and calcium, as well as high concentrations of magnesium and manganese. Potassium, and also copper and cobalt are further translocated to newly formed plant organs. Data on the chemical composition of soils and plants were used to calculate the biological absorption factor and the index of biochemical activity for plants. Chemical elements were groups by the rate of their involvement in the biological cycle. Manganese, calcium and potassium prove to be the most biogenic. Zinc and copper are also actively involved in the biogenic cycle. Among the studied plant species, the index of biochemical activity was the highest in bilberry. The results reveal a slight variation in the content of a majority of the studied chemical elements and the rate of biological uptake by plants across the range of landscape-geochemical conditions. A general finding is that the principal factors for variation in macroelements are the plant’s species identity and physiological characteristics, while the content of microelements varied in relation to the topographic position and hydrological conditions.

Traditional medicinal uses of the Eurasian wild grapevine in the Iberian Peninsula

The Iberian Peninsula constitutes the Western limit of the dioecious Eurasian wild grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris). At present, it is a threatened plant, due to human impacts. This liana has had different uses in this territory from the Paleolithic until the end of the last century, including several medicinal applications, inherited from the classical Greek culture. In order to retrieve the available written information, we carried out an exhaustive bibliographic search of the pharmacopoeia linked to this Vitaceae, from the 16th century to the present day. Current references on chemical composition of different parts of grapevine and their medicinal uses were also covered. In parallel, we conducted research in several archives and made inquiries to historians, anthropologists, and sanitary personnel. We also interviewed elderly people from rural areas of Spain and Portugal where some relic populations of wild grapevine are still conserved. Among the written and oral medicinal uses compiled, the main ones are: the use of the grapevine bleeding water to alleviate eczema and skin eruptions and to combat conjunctivitis and keratitis; the use of must from unripe berries (agua de agraz in Spanish) as liver tonic and to treat digestive diseases; the leaves were used to reduce edema, as antihemorrhoidal, and for menopausal disorders; and finally, the vinegar was used to clean and disinfect wounds both on humans and animals. This paper highlights the tremendous erosion of the traditional knowledge about this relevant plant genetic resource.

The impact of the agrochemical properties of soil on the chemical composition of Jerusalem artichoke flowers

The objective of this research was to investigate and to evaluate the chemical composition of Jerusalem artichoke flowers grown in different soils. Quality analysis was carried out in the laboratories of the Institute of Agricultural and Food Science of Vytautas Magnus University. The following agrochemical parameters of the soil were determined using standardized methods: pHKCl, the amount of soil humus, mineral nitrogen, mobile phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The chemical composition of different parts of Jerusalem artichoke flowers (disk florets and ray florets) were evaluated by the standard method: the content of carbohydrates (inulin and total saccharides content), minerals (N, P, K, Ca, Fe, Na, Zn, Mg). Electronic nose (Alpha M. O. S.) measurement technologies were used to recognize and identify the flower fragrance (volatile organic compounds). Processing of the research data was carried out through the application of the analysis of variance (ANOVA), using the computer software Statistica 10. The research results showed that the substantially highest amount of inulin was determined in the disk florets (0.339%, D. M.) of Jerusalem artichoke grown in the soil with the medium humus and medium available potassium amount. The content of total soluble saccharides of different parts of Jerusalem artichoke flowers varied from 2.54 to 4.11% of disk florets and from 0.55 to 0.81% of ray florets. The highest amount of macroelement potassium (3.1%, D. M.) was detected in Jerusalem artichoke flowers grown in the soil with the medium amount of humus and the medium amount of mobile potassium. Volatile organic compounds in Jerusalem artichoke flowers were determined as a complex mixture of esters, alcohols, terpenes, sulphur and other compounds. Esters as volatile compounds prevailed in Jerusalem artichoke flowers. Methyl acetate and ethyl 2-methylbutyrate with fruity, grape odour were the predominant esters group compounds as well as dimethyl trisulfide – sulfur compound in Jerusalem artichoke flowers. The investigated aroma profile of flowers shows that they have fruity-like odour.

Characterization of Agave americana L. plant as potential source of fibres for composites obtaining

This paper summarises the results obtained from the characterization assays from century plant (Agave americana L.), determining the chemical composition of different parts of the plant. Fibres were obtained by means of a mechanical device, specifically designed and built for Agave americana leaves processing. Obtained fibres were subjected to thermogravimetric analysis and infrared spectra, and their chemical composition was also determined by quantitative acid hydrolysis. Once obtained, fibres were blended up to 40% (in weight) to obtain composites by compression moulding, using polyethylene as matrix; mechanical testing show improvements in elastic modulus for both tensile and flexural tests; increase in flexural maximum strength were also found for the composites, while tensile strength is slightly reduced with the introduction of agave fibres. The research is part of a project developed in the Macaronesian region, which aim is to demonstrate the feasibility of using biomass from invasive plant species in the composites sector as a way of financing control campaigns and habitats conservation labours, which is the main novelty of this research.

Efficiency of blended polyhydric alcohols solution on liquefaction of oil palm trunk (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.)

The oil palm tree is a monocotyledon, and the chemical composition varies relative to the part of its trunk. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the chemical composition in different parts of an oil palm trunk and the rate of liquefaction. PEG#400/glycerol (4:1, w/w) was the liquefying reagent with 2% sulfuric acid as a catalyst. Liquefaction was done at the optimum conditions of liquor ratio, temperature (130 to 180 °C), and reaction time (30 to 120 min). The results revealed that the rate of liquefying was dependent on the part of the trunk. The inner zone in the top parts of the trunk had the least amount of lignin and lowest crystallinity. Thus, these parts could be liquefied faster than the other parts of the trunk. According to FTIR, XRD, and 13C NMR analyses, the amorphous polymer content (comprised of lignin, hemicellulose, and disordered zones of cellulose and starch) mostly degraded at the low temperature of 140 °C for 30 min, while the crystalline regions required higher temperature (180 °C). Increasing the temperature had stronger effects than extending reaction time or the liquor ratio. Furthermore, excess in these reaction parameters caused re-condensation of the degraded liquefied products.

Research on the character and degumming process of different parts of ramie fiber

The aim of this paper is to study the differences of the aggregation structure, physical properties and chemical composition of different parts of ramie fiber, as well as segmented degumming processes applying to those different parts. The ramie was divided into three parts, namely the root, the middle and the head and then the traditional two-step alkali method was adopted for degumming. It has been observed that the linear density and breaking strength reduced gradually from the root to head and the friction coefficient of the head was the largest. X-ray diffraction measurement found that the crystallinity of the middle fiber was the highest. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the component content of different parts was not the same and there was much more gum content on the head, which was also confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. To shorten the degumming process and reduce the energy consumption that the two-step segmented degumming caused, the one-step optimization process was explored. The results illustrated that by using one-step optimization segmented degumming, the residual gum content of the head, the middle and the root were 2.55%, 2.17% and 2.12%, respectively. By using two-step degumming, the residual gum contents were 2.16%, 1.97% and 2.07%, respectively. Contrasting one-step degumming and two-step degumming, it could be concluded that the head and the middle parts were suitable for two-step degumming while the root part was suitable for one-step degumming.

Influence of ecological-coenotic conditions on the chemical composition of herbal seria Centaurea сarpatica Porc

Centaurea сarpatica Porc. is a species, common in the Eastern and Southern Carpathians. We have studied a quantitative content of the main groups of biologically active substances in herbal C. сarpatica Porc. We have found the variability of chemical composition in different parts of plants depending on growing conditions. It has been established that the maximum amount of tannins, polyphenolic compounds and anthocyanins is contained in the aboveground parts of plants gathered in the highlands; the amount of ascorbic acid does not depend on the place of growing a lot.

Studies on morphological and nutritional characteristics of different parts (Leaf, flower and pods) ofMoringa oleifera (Variety : Koimtoor-1)

Moringa oleifera L. belongs to a family Moringaceae commonly referred to as Miracle Tree, 'drumstick tree' or 'horseradish tree'.This research study was aimed at investigating the morphological and nutritional characteristics of different parts of Moringa oleifera . Fresh sample of Moringa leaves, flowers and pods were collected, sorted, blanched and dried. Colour, length, width measurement of Moringa leaves and flowers while average weight and number of seeds per pod were analysed to determine morphological characteristics of Moringa oleifera . The per cent yield from different parts were also investigated.The per cent yield of blanched powders are comparatively lower then blanched samples. The blanched and dried plant samples were analysed separately for proximate composition using appropriate methods. The chemical composition of different parts of Moringa such as leaves, flower and pod for their moisture content, crude fat, crude protein, carbohydrates, crude fibre and ash were 5.4, 3.4, 28, 43, 10.2, 8.5 per cent ( for leaves); 5.7, 1.6, 24.1, 53.6, 7.5, 5.9 per cent (for flowers); 5.2, 0.5, 17, 26, 34. 1 per cent (for pods) observed, respectively.

A hypothesis on different technological solutions for outdoor and indoor Roman wall paintings

The determination of the chemical composition of different parts of wall paintings (pigments, mortars and binders) provides information about technology of preparation of an artefact. Herein, we present a multi-methodological characterisation of wall paintings from a Roman archaeological site in Cuma, focusing on differences between an indoor (domus) and outdoor fabrication (a temple, Tempio con Portico (TCP)). Both pigments, binders and mortars were studied via a combination of destructive/μ-destructive (mass spectrometry, ionic chromatography, ICP-based techniques) and non-destructive (Raman microscopy, small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and X-ray diffraction) methodologies. Particularly, the systematic presence of dolomite only in mortars from TCP may suggest an intentional use of such limestone for the outdoor fabrication of public interest. Differences between TCP and domus are also related to the composition of the pigment binder. In particular, the detected binders (studied by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS) were proteinaceous in the case of domus (possibly egg and animal glue) and drying oils in the case of TCP. Ultimately, our multi-methodological study provides an overall picture of the material components of paintings from fabrications with different use, proposing a hypothesis on technological choices according to conservative and destination reasons.

Arbutus unedo L.: chemical and biological properties.

Arbutus unedo L. (strawberry tree) has a circum-Mediterranean distribution, being found in western, central and southern Europe, north-eastern Africa (excluding Egypt and Libya) and the Canary Islands and western Asia. Fruits of the strawberry tree are generally used for preparing alcoholic drinks (wines, liqueurs and brandies), jams, jellies and marmalades, and less frequently eaten as fresh fruit, despite their pleasing appearance. An overview of the chemical composition of different parts of the plant, strawberry tree honey and strawberry tree brandy will be presented. The biological properties of the different parts of A. unedo and strawberry tree honey will be also overviewed.

FEASIBILITY ASSESSMENT OF PROTEIN CONCENTRATE FROM TOMATO PROCESSING WASTES AND DETERMINATION OF ITS FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

To extract protein concentrate from tomato processing wastes, the chemical composition of different parts of tomato processing wastes including tomato processing waste meal, tomato seed meal, and tomato oil extracted seed meal were determined. Protein concentrates were prepared by alkali extraction and acid precipitation. To propose the optimal condition for obtaining the maximum protein yield, we performed alkali extraction by using NaOH in 20-70ċ and 8-12 degrees of pH. Next, acid precipitation was performed with HCl in 3.3-5.5 degrees of pH. After determining the protein concentration and dissolved protein mass in extract, the optimal condition was obtained at the room temperature (25-27 ċ) and pH=12. The maximum protein yield of tomato processing waste, tomato seed, and tomato oil extracted seed was achieved in the pH of 3.9, 4.1, and 4.1, respectively. The effect of heat treatment during acid precipitation on protein yield and two functional properties including water absorption and oil absorption capacities of protein concentrates were studied at the temperature over the range of 25-100ċ. Results showed that the highest protein precipitate is obtained at higher temperatures. Moreover, the most protein percentage of both tomato processing waste and tomato seed is given in the room temperature while that of tomato oil extracted seed is achieved at the temperature over the range of 70-85ċ. In addition, by increasing the temperature in acid precipitation stage, the water and oil absorption of protein concentrates is increased. Keywords: Tomato processing wastes, Alkali extraction, Acid precipitation, Maximum protein yield, Functional properties

HPCE fingerprints of Forsythia suspensa from Hebei province

To develop a HPCE analysis method for fingerprints of Forsythia suspensa from Hebei province, get reference fingerprint and compare the fingerprints of F. suspensa collected from different producing areas and different parts of the plant. Electrophoresis was performed on a fused silica capillary column (75 microm x 60 cm, 30 cm). The running buffer was composed of 50 mmol x L(-1) borax (adjust to pH 9.90 with 0.1 mol x L(-1) NaOH). The applied voltage was 15 kV and the temperature was 20 degrees C. The detection wavelength was 214 nm. The semblances to the crude drugs of different producing areas were compared. The mutual mode of HPCE fingerprints was set up with 12 common peaks. The fingerprints of F. suspensa from Hebei province had high similarity, F. suspensa from Shanxi and Henan were also of good quality. The chemical composition in different parts of the herb had big differences. The method is simple, quick, accurate and can be used as a new means for the quality control of F. suspensa.

Aloe vera as a Functional Ingredient in Foods

The main scientific discoveries on Aloe vera published mainly in the last three decades are presented in this work. After describing Aloe from a botanical point of view, the papers related with the chemical composition of different parts of the leaf of Aloe, particularly those in which the gel is described and are presented in a synthetic manner. The chemical analyses reveal that Aloe gel contains mannose polymers with some glucose and other sugars, among which the most important is Acemannan. Besides these, other components such as glycoproteins, enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals are described. Different factors also affecting the chemical composition of the gel, such as species and variety, climatic and soil conditions, cultivation methods, processing and preservation, are enumerated and discussed. On the other hand, the main therapeutic applications have been revised and the possible damaging effects of Aloe are also commented upon. A special emphasis is placed on the biologically active compounds or groups of compounds responsible for the therapeutic applications and which are their action mechanisms. The paper concludes that more research is needed to confirm the therapeutic and beneficial effects and to definitively clarify the myth surrounding Aloe vera. A general view on the problem of the commercialization and establishment of the quality and safety of Aloe products in the food industry has been offered here. The main points and European regulations that need to be considered regarding the quality control of prepared Aloe products are presented in this paper.

Yields and chemical composition of different parts of the common vetch of flowering and at two seed filling states

In annual forage legumes such as the common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), in which the pods represent a substantial proportion of the total biomass, the optimum harvesting stage may not adjust to the classical model of decreasing nutritive value after flowering. The effect of harvest time on the yield of the main chemical components of common vetch was evaluated under field conditions typical of the Castilian Plain (Mediterranean continental-type climate under rain-fed conditions). Over two growing seasons (1996-1997 and 1997-1998), plants were harvested at flowering and at two stages during seed filling (characterized by a progressively higher dry matter content of the seed; 280 and 380 g kg-1 respectively). The results show that the greater quality and quantity of the pods offsets the decrease in quality occasioned by the aging of the vegetative plant parts (stems plus leaves). Crude protein yields were not affected by delaying the harvest-time. Starch yields were higher when the plant was harvested during seed-filling. Sugar yields increased between flowering and seed filling in the first growing season but decreased in the second. Yields of structural components such as neutral-detergent fibre, acid-detergent fibre and acid-detergent cellulose, followed a pattern similar to that of crude protein. There therefore appears to be a flexible harvest period ranging from flowering until the beginning of seed filling (seeds with 380 g dry matter kg-1), which may be advantageous when trying to select optimum haymaking conditions.