Crude Hydroalcoholic Extract Research Articles

Brazilian red propolis reduces the adhesion of oral biofilm cells and the Toxoplasma gondii intracellular proliferation

Infectious diseases remain as a significant cause of thousands of deaths annually worldwide. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity of the crude hydroalcoholic extract and compounds isolated from Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) against oral pathogens and Toxoplasma gondii, using in vitro, in vivo and in silico approaches. Antimicrobial and synergistic activities were determined using the broth dilution method and the checkerboard assay, respectively. Antibiofilm activity was evaluated by staining with 2 % crystal violet and counting microorganisms. In vivo infection was carried out in Caenorhabditis elegans AU37 larvae and in silico analysis was performed using molecular docking simulations. The effect on growth modulation of T. gondii was evaluated through a β-galactosidase colorimetric assay. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration values ranged from 3.12 to 400 µg/mL. Biofilm Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MICB50) values ranged from 6.25 to 375 µg/mL, with a significant reduction in the number of viable cells. Furthermore, Guttiferone E and the crude extract reduced cell aggregation and caused damage to the biofilm cell wall. The highest concentrations of the crude extract and Guttiferone E increased the survival and reduced the risk of death of infected and treated larvae. Guttiferone E and Oblongifolin B inhibited the intracellular proliferation of T. gondii and demonstrated several targets of action against bacteria and T. gondii through in silico analysis. These data demonstrate that BRP has antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity against pathogens of clinical relevance, and can be used in the future as phytomedicines.

Phytochemical Investigation of an Ostrya carpinifolia L. Extract: an Effective Anti-Pollution Cosmetic Active Ingredient.

Ostrya carpinifolia L., a member of the Betulaceae family, is a tree endemic to the Mediterranean basin that is well known for the hardness of its wood. In this study, we assess the anti-pollution activities of a hydroalcoholic extract of O. carpinifolia twigs using several judiciously selected in vitro cosmetic bioassays. The extract's capacity to counteract excessive production of reactive oxygen species following a cutaneous exposure to atmospheric pollution was evaluated using a combination of several antioxidant assays: DPPH, FRAP and β-carotene bleaching assays. These antioxidant assays were complemented by anti-elastase, anti-collagenase, anti-hyaluronidase and anti-lipoxygenase assays to evaluate the capacity of the extract to preserve the integrity of the skin. The hydroalcoholic extract of O. carpinifolia demonstrates intriguing biological antioxidant activities, with approximately 50% inhibition observed in DPPH and β-carotene assays. Furthermore, its anti-lipoxygenase, anti-hyaluronidase, and anti-collagenase activities are noteworthy, exceeding 50% inhibition. The two major compounds of O. carpinifolia ethanolic extract were isolated and identified as myricitrin (1) and quercitrin (2). Myricitrin and quercitrin exhibit antioxidant and anti-hyaluronidase properties; we explored the correlation of these properties with the activity of the crude hydroalcoholic extract. Notably, these compounds have not been previously described in the Ostrya genus.

Phytochemical profile and evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of the crude hydroalcoholic extract of Cecropia pachystachya leaves

Cecropia pachysthacia belongs to the Urticaceae family, popularly known as embaúba, imbaúba, umbaúba, embaúva, sloth plant. This species is popularly used for the treatment of various pathologies, such as respiratory, hypertension, and blood glucose control, among others. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the phytochemical profile and the antimicrobial activity of the crude hydroalcoholic extract of Cecropia pachysthacia leaves. Phytochemical tests were performed to determine bioactive compounds with pharmacological action. Phytochemical screening demonstrated the presence of saponin, terpenes, volatile oils, glycosylated flavonoids, triterpenes, flavonoids, anglicones, and tannins. For the microbiological analysis, five genera were used, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus spp., Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus spp. isolates of bacteria from cows with clinical mastitis, from the bacteriothek of the Infectious Diseases Laboratory of the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco - UFRPE. The crude hydroalcoholic extract under study showed inhibitory activity against the tested isolates, resulting from the bacteriostatic effect of the extract components.

Antiviral action of aqueous extracts of propolis from Scaptotrigona aff. postica (Hymenoptera; Apidae) against Zica, Chikungunya, and Mayaro virus

The limited availability of antivirals for new highly pathogenic strains of virus has become a serious public health. Therefore, news products against these pathogens has become an urgent necessity. Among the multiple sources for news antibiotics and antivirals, insect exudates or their products has become an increasingly frequent option. Insects emerged 350 million years ago and have showed a high adaptability and resistance to the most varied biomes. Their survival for so long, in such different environments, is an indication that they have a very efficient protection against environmental infections, despite not having a developed immune system like mammals. Since the ancient civilizations, the products obtained from the bee have been of great pharmacological importance, being used as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor and several other functions. Investigations of biological activity of propolis have been carried out, mainly in the species Apis mellifera, and its product have showed activity against some important viruses. However, for the Meliponini species, known as stingless bees, there are few studies, either on their chemical composition or on their biological activities. The importance of studying these bees is because they come from regions with native forests, and therefore with many species of plants not yet studied, in addition to which they are regions still free of pesticides, which guarantees a greater fidelity of the obtained data. Previous studies by our group with crude hydroalcoholic extract of propolis demonstrated an intense antiviral activity against Herpes, influenza, and rubella viruses. In this work, we chose to use aqueous extracts, which eliminates the presence of other compounds besides those originally present in propolis, in addition to extracting substances different from those obtained in alcoholic extracts. Therefore, this study aimed to identify, isolate and characterize compounds with antiviral effects from aqueous propolis extracts from Scaptotrigona aff postica, in emerging viruses such as zicavirus, chikungunya, and mayaro virus. The evaluation of the antiviral activity of the crude and purified material was performed by reducing infectious foci in VERO cell cultures. The results obtained with crude propolis, indicate a high reduction of zica virus (64×) and mayaro (128×) when was used 10% v/v of propolis. The reduction of chikungunya virus was of 256 fold, even when was used 5% v/v of propolis. The chemical characterization of the compounds present in the extracts was performed by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Through the purification of propolis by HPLC and mass spectrometry, it was possible to identify and isolate a peak with antiviral activity. This substance showed activity against all viruses tested. When purified fraction was used, the reduction observed was of 16 fold for zicavirus, 32 fold for mayaro virus and 512 fold for chikungunya virus. Likewise, it was observed that the antiviral response was concentration dependent, being more intense when propolis was added 2 h after the viral infection. Now we are carrying out the chemical characterization of the purified compounds that showed antiviral action.

Efficacy of Albizia malacophylla (A.Rich.) Walp. (Leguminosae) methanol (80%) leaf extract and solvent fractions against Plasmodium berghei-induced malaria in mice model

Ethnopharmacological relevanceNovel drugs are needed to address the issue of malarial infection resistance; natural items can be a different source of these medications. Albizia malacophylla (A. Rich.) Walp. (Leguminosae) is listed as one of the antimalarial medicinal plants in Ethiopian folk medicine. However, there are no reports regarding the biological activity or phytochemistry of the plant. Aim of the studyThus, this study aimed to evaluate the A. malacophylla crude extract and solvent fractions' in vivo antimalarial activity utilizing 4-day suppressive, preventative, and curative tests in mice infected with P. berghei. Materials and methodsThe parasite Plasmodium berghei, which causes rodent malaria, was used to infect healthy male Swiss Albino mice, weighing 23–28 g and aged 6–8 weeks. Solvent fractions such as methanol, water, and chloroform were given in addition to an 80% methanolic extract at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg doses. A Conventional test such as parasitemia, survival time, body weight, temperature, and packed cell capacity were employed to ascertain factors such as the suppressive, curative, and preventive tests. ResultsEvery test substance dramatically reduced the number of parasites in every experiment. Crude extract (with the highest percentage suppression of 67.78%) performs better antimalarial effect than the methanol fraction, which is the most efficient solvent fraction with a percentage suppression of 55.74%. With a suppression value of 64.83% parasitemia level, the therapeutic effects of 80% methanolic crude extract were greater than its curative and preventative effects in a four-day suppressive test. The survival period (17 days) was longer with the hydroalcoholic crude extract dose of 400 mg/kg than with other doses of the materials under investigation. ConclusionsThe results of this investigation validate the antimalarial characteristics of A. malacophylla leaf extract. The crude extract prevented weight loss, a decline in temperature, and a reduction in PCV. The results demonstrate that the plant has a promising antimalarial effect against P. berghei, hence supporting the traditional use of the plant. Therefore, it could serve as a foundation for the development of new antimalarial drugs.

Anticonvulsant effects of Paeonia daurica subsp. macrophylla root extracts in pentylenetetrazol-induced seizure models in mice

IntroductionIn the present study, anticonvulsant effects of aqueous extract (AE), hydro-alcoholic crude extract (HE), and its fractions (F-CHCl3, F-EtOAc, F-MeOH) of Paeonia daurica subsp. macrophylla (P. daurica ssp. macrophylla) root examined by using a pentylenetetrazol-induced model (PTZ) on mice. MethodsHE and its fractions as well as AE, in concentrations of (100, 200 and 400mg/kg), valproate (Val) (100 and 200mg/kg), and saline (negative control) (10mg/kg) were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) 30min before PTZ (80mg/kg, i.p.). The time taken before the onset of myoclonic convulsions (MC), MC duration, time taken before the onset of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS), the duration of GTCS, and the percentage of GTCS and mortality protection recorded. The plant's anticonvulsant mechanisms were assessed using flumazenil (5mg/kg, i.p.) before AE (100, 200, and 400mg/kg, i.p.) injection. GraphPad Prism software was used to compare the differences between various treatment groups with one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey–Krammer multiple comparison tests. ResultsAll the plant samples except F-EtOAc significantly delayed the onset and decreased the duration of PTZ-induced MCS and GTCS, and significantly reduced the GTCS and mortality rate. Pretreatment with flumazenil diminished the significant anticonvulsant effects of AE against PTZ-induced seizures. ConclusionsIt can report that extract of P. daurica ssp. macrophylla might be a helpful guide for future studies in the treatment of epilepsy.

Study of chemical constituents, antioxidants and antimicrobial activities of Tamarindus indica L. seed.

The fruits of Tamarindus indica L. are consumed worldwide, with various parts of the plant being used for medicinal purposes. The residues (pericarp and seeds) generated during cellulose processing are of significant value as they contain bioactive compounds with diverse biological activities. The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical constituents of the ethyl acetate fraction as possible substitutes for synthetic compounds with biological properties using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) analysis and the evaluation of the antioxidant activity (ferric reducing antioxidant power [FRAP], 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid [ABTS], and 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl [DPPH]), total phenolic compounds (TPC), and antimicrobial activity of the hydroalcoholic extract and tamarind seed fractions were also performed. The chemical investigation of the acetate fraction using UHPLC-HRMS/MSresulted in the putative identification of 14 compounds, including flavonoids, (+)-catechin/(-)-epicatechin, procyanidin B2, procyanidin C2, isoquercetin, quercetin, luteolin, rutin, taxifolin, eriodictyol, kaempferide, hydroxybenzoic acid, protocathecuic acid, and protocathecuic acid methyl and ethyl esters derivatives. The crude hydroalcoholic extract exhibited the best results in terms of TPC: 883.87 gallic acid equivalent (GAE; mg/g) and antioxidant activity: FRAP: 183.29 GAE (mg/g), ABTS: 39.67%, and DPPH: 91.08%. The extract exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria, specifically Staphylococcus aureus minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)/minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC; 62.5/125g/mL) and Bacillus cereus MIC/MBC (125/250g/mL), and gram-negative bacteria, specifically Aeromonas hydrophila MIC/MBC (125/250µg/mL) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa MIC/MBC (250/500g/mL). Morphological damage to cells was observed using flow cytometry and scanning electron microscopy. Tamarind seeds contain unique bioactive compounds that should be explored for their use as novel food preservatives. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Original data were obtained regarding the Tamarindus indica L. seed extract and the ethyl acetate and hexane fractions. This research aimed to investigate the potential of these for food preservation and as alternatives to additives and synthetic compounds added to cattle feed. This paper reports novel findings regarding the chemical composition of the extract and its antioxidant activity, along with its antimicrobial activity against bacteria (gram-positive: Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and gram-negative: Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Aeromonas hydrophila) and yeasts (Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae).

The Immunomodulatory Activity of Punica granatum L. Peel Extract Increases the Lifespan of Mice with Lethal Sepsis.

Sepsis is an organ dysfunction syndrome associated with high mortality. To date, no effective treatment is available to combat this disease. Punica granatum L. is a potential alternative treatment due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a hydroalcoholic crude extract from the peels of P. granatum (HCEPg) in mice with lethal sepsis. Lethal polymicrobial sepsis was induced in female Swiss mice via cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Initially, the animals were divided into three groups: Sham (false-operated), CLP-control (phosphate-buffered saline), and CLP-HCEPg (single dose, 5 mg/kg, subcutaneous administration). Treatment was initiated immediately after the induction of sepsis, and survival was evaluated every 12 hr for 5 days. Those who survived were euthanized. Serum cytokine levels were measured using a cytometric bead array Mouse Inflammatory Cytokine Kit. The number of colony-forming units, as well as the number of cells in the lymphoid organs and their activation markers, were analyzed. Results showed that treatment with HCEPg increased lifespan and reduced bacterial counts in the peritoneum, bloodstream, and spleen. HCEPg also decreased hydrogen peroxide secretion by phagocytes and augmented serum IL-10 levels, indicating its systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, treatment with HCEPg attenuated infection-induced lung hemorrhage. Overall, P. granatum extract improved the lifespan of septic mice, possibly due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, thereby regulating bacterial load and translocation, as well as controlling the systemic inflammation induced by sepsis.

Effects of Myrcia pubipetala Miq (Myrtaceae) extract on innate inflammatory response

Myrcia is a genus widespread in South America with many species presenting anti-inflammatory and biological properties. We investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of crude hydroalcoholic extract of Myrcia pubipetala leaves (CHE-MP) using macrophages (RAW 264.7), and the air pouch model in mice to evaluate leukocyte migration and mediator’s release. Adhesion molecule expression, CD49 and CD18, was evaluated in neutrophils. In vitro, the CHE-MP significantly reduced nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels in the exudate and the supernatant culture. CHE-MP did not present cytotoxicity and modulated the percentage of positive neutrophils for CD18 and its expression per cell, without modifying the expression of CD49, which corroborated with significantly reduced neutrophil migration to inflammatory exudate and subcutaneous tissue. Taken together, the data demonstrate that CHE-MP presents a potential activity on innate inflammatory.

Antiparasitic properties of 4-nerolidylcatechol from Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miq. (Piperaceae) in vitro and in mice models with either prepatent or patent Schistosoma mansoni infections

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRoots of Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miq. are used in traditional medicine of Africa and South America for the treatment of malaria and helminthiasis. However, neither P. umbellata nor its isolated compounds have been evaluated against Schistosoma species. Aims of this studyTo investigate the antischistosomal effects of P. umbellata root extracts and the isolated compound 4-nerolidylcatechol (4-NC) against Schistosoma mansoni ex vivo and in murine models of schistosomiasis. Materials and methodsThe crude hydroalcoholic (PuE) and hexane (PuH) extracts of P. umbellata roots were prepared and initially submitted to an ex vivo phenotypic screening against adult S. mansoni. PuH was analyzed by HPLC-DAD, characterized by UHPLC-HRMS/MS, and submitted to chromatographic fractionation, leading to the isolation of 4-NC. The anthelmintic properties of 4-NC were assayed ex vivo against adult schistosomes and in murine models of schistosomiasis for both patent and prepatent S. mansoni infections. Praziquantel (PZQ) was used as a reference compound. ResultsPuE (EC50: 18.7 μg/mL) and PuH (EC50: 9.2 μg/mL) kill adult schistosomes ex vivo. The UHPLC–HRMS/MS analysis of PuH, the most active extract, revealed the presence of 4-NC, peltatol A, and peltatol B or C. After isolation from PuH, 4-NC presented remarkable in vitro schistosomicidal activity with EC50 of 2.9 μM (0.91 μg/mL) and a selectivity index higher than 68 against Vero mammalian cells, without affecting viability of nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. In patent S. mansoni infection, the oral treatment with 4-NC decreased worm burden and egg production in 52.1% and 52.3%, respectively, also reducing splenomegaly and hepatomegaly. 4-NC, unlike PZQ, showed in vivo efficacy against juvenile S. mansoni, decreasing worm burden in 52.4%. ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that P. umbellata roots possess antischistosomal activity, giving support for the medicinal use of this plant against parasites. 4-NC was identified from P. umbellata roots as one of the effective in vitro and in vivo antischistosomal compound and as a potential lead for the development of novel anthelmintics.

Phyto-constituents profiling of Prosopis cineraria and in vitro assessment of antioxidant and anti-ulcerogenicity activities

BackgroundThe Fabaceae family's Prosopis cineraria L. Druce (PC) is a tiny to medium-sized, thorny and irregularly branching tree used in Indian traditional medicine. PurposeThe current study has been investigated of Prosopis cineraria bark for mycochemical screening and evaluating their pharmacological activities by using two antiulcer models. After that isolation of active constituent present in hydroalcoholic bark crude extract. Study designIn the present analysis, qualitative and quantitative studies were analyzed. On the basis of this assay we choose hydro-alcoholic bark extract (HABE) for pylorus ligation ulcer model and an ethanol-induced ulcer model on female albino wistar rats. The volume of gastric juice, pH, total and free acidity and ulcer index were all investigated. The hydroalcoholic extracts of bark were selected and further undergo the seclusion of bioactive compounds by using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses and Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) of the extracts. ResultsPhytochemical screening of the bark extract showed that phenol, terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, steroids, amino acids and proteins, reducing sugars and carbohydrates were present. However, a greater dose of the extract lowered gastric ulcer index and increased percent protection from pylorus ligation (75.05%) and ethanol (76.05%)-induced aberrations, as measured by altered biochemical markers such as a decrease in stomach volume, free, and total acidity. In contrast, GC–MS analyses of the hydroalcoholic bark extracts identified 42 compounds in which gallic acid is mainly present and in LC-MS analyses ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid are found by use of the (NIST) library. ConclusionsBased on the present findings, it was revealed that the bark of Prosopis cineraria may be used as potent bio resource for natural antioxidants and antiulcerogenic drug. As a result, more research is needed on elucidation of individual phytochemicals, as well as their mechanism of action.

In vivo healing potential of Vitis Vinifera L. and Punica Granatum L. fruit extracts in excision and burn models in rabbits

Abstract Aim. The present study was carried out to evaluate the wound healing potential of crude Hydroalcoholic fruit extracts of Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) and Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) in experimental animals. Material and methods. Extracts were formulated as ointments (250 mg), and their wound healing properties were determined by using two models: i.e. excision and burn models, in rabbits. Wound healing potential was assessed by measuring rate of wound contraction (percentage wound contraction) and the epithelialization period. Tukey test (HSD) test was used to analyze the obtained results. The value of p <0.05 was considered as a level of significance. The reference standard was wadded Cicatryl® ointment. Results. The result showed that crude fruit extracts of Vitis vinifera L. and Punica granatum L. exhibited a significant (p <0.0001) rate of wound contraction and significant (p<0.0001) decrease in the period of epithelialization compared to the control (untreated) group in both the models studied. Conclusion. Our results suggest that topical treatment of fruit extracts of Vitis vinifera L. and Punica granatum L. accelerate wound healing activity, thus our study supports their traditional use. Both extracts can be used as a potential source of wound healing therapeutics.

Immunostimulating activity of Uncaria tomentosa in RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Uncaria tomentosa is a plant native to the Amazon that has immunomodulatory and antitumor properties due to the alkaloids found in the plant, being able to modify the immune response by potentiating or suspending the action of cytokines secreted by macrophages that induce the immune response, either by the classical route (M1) or through the alternative route (M2). Macrophages activated by M1 convert L-arginine into L-citrulline and nitric oxide (NO), whereas macrophages activated by the M2 pathway use the enzymatic activity of arginase to convert the same substrate into L-ornithine and urea. The aim of this work was to evaluate the immunostimulating activity of the crude hydroalcoholic extract from the bark of the U. tomentosa stem in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Concentrations of 0.2, 0.1 and 0.05 mg/mL of U. tomentosa extract associated with LPS, INF-γ and IL-4 inducers were tested by determining NO production and arginase enzyme activity. Nitric oxide production was enhanced by the extract when associated with LPS and LPS + INF-γ inducers. In the activity of the arginase enzyme, the extract decreased the stimulation of IL-4 on the enzyme, mainly at 0.2 mg/mL concentration. Therefore, it is concluded that the crude hydroalcoholic extract of the stem bark of U. tomentosa in RAW 264.7 cells, at a concentration of 0.2 mg/mL, showed considerable pro-inflammatory activity.

Potential in vitro anti-periodontopathogenic, anti-Chikungunya activities and in vivo toxicity of Brazilian red propolis

Bacterial and viral infections are serious public health issue. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm and antiviral potential of the Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) crude hydroalcoholic extract, fractions, and isolated compounds, as well as their in vivo toxicity. The antibacterial activity was evaluated by determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and the antibiofilm activity by determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Biofilm (MICB50). The viable bacteria count (Log10 UFC/mL) was also obtained. The antiviral assays were performed by infecting BHK-21 cells with Chikungunya (CHIKV) nanoluc. The toxicity of the BRP was evaluated in the Caenorhabditis elegans animal model. The MIC values for the crude hydroalcoholic extract sample ranged from 3.12 to 100 μg/mL, while fractions and isolated compounds the MIC values ranged from 1.56 to 400 μg/mL.The BRP crude hydroalcoholic extract, oblongifolin B, and gutiferone E presented MICB50 values ranging from 1.56 to 100 μg/mL against monospecies and multispecies biofilms. Neovestitol and vestitol inhibited CHIKV infection by 93.5 and 96.7%, respectively. The tests to evaluate toxicity in C. elegans demonstrated that the BRP was not toxic below the concentrations 750 μg/mL. The results constitute an alternative approach for treating various infectious diseases.

Antimalarial activity of the hydroalcoholic crude extract and solvent fractions of Commelina latifolia Hochst. ex C.B.Clarke (Commelinaceae) leaves against Plasmodium berghei in mice

Ethnopharmacological relevanceIn Ethiopia, the indigenous medicinal plant Commelina latifolia Hochst. ex C.B. Clarke leaves are used to treat malaria and wounds. Aim of the studyIn this work, the antiplasmodial activity of Commelina latifolia crude leaf extract and solvent fractions against Plasmodium berghei-infected mice was investigated. Materials and methods80% methanol was used to extract the leaves of C. latifolia, and the crude extract was fractionated using chloroform, pure methanol, and distilled water. All test compounds were undergone an acute oral toxicity test before being put through Peter’s 4-day suppressive test to see if they have antiplasmodial activity. The hydroalcoholic crude extract and chloroform fraction were additionally assessed for antimalarial activity using curative and prophylactic tests in P. berghei-infected laboratory mice. ResultsAll of the tested crude extracts were safe at a dose of 2000 mg/kg. At 400 mg/kg dose both the 80% methanol extract and chloroform fraction exhibited antimalarial activity with parasitemia suppression values of 86.31%, and 76.56% in the four-day suppressive test, 81.97% and 72.05% in Rane's test, and 69.05% and 62.88% in the prophylactic test, respectively. ConclusionCollectively, the oral dose of Commelina latifolia is safe, and reveals promising antimalarial activity. The findings backed up the utilization of the plant in traditional medicine to treat malaria.

Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activity of Methanolic Root Extract of Verbascum sinaiticum Benth.

Pain in its various forms is undoubtedly the most common ailment known to human beings. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioid analgesics are widely used to treat pain. However, long-term use of NSAIDs and opioids causes serious adverse effects on various organs. As a result, looking for drugs with better efficacy and lesser adverse effects appears crucial. For this purpose the obvious search begins from traditional medicines, particularly herbs. Therefore, this study investigated analgesic and anti- inflammatory activity of 80% methanol root extract of Verbasicum sinaiticum Benth (VS) in vivo. The dried and crushed plant material was macerated with 80% methanol sequentially and dried with lyophilizer. As per the acute toxicity study conducted elsewhere, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg doses of extract were used in the acetic acid induced writhing, hot plate test, as well as carrageenan and formalin induced anti-inflammatory models. As a positive control, aspirin 150 mg/kg was used for anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory model and morphine 10 mg/kg was used for central analgesic models. VS200 and VS400 doses of the extract significantly (p< 0.05) reduced acetic acid induced writhing as compared with the control group. Similarly in hot plate test also, both VS200 and VS400 groups demonstrated significant (p< 0.05 at 30 min and p< 0.001 at 60 and 120 min) analgesic effect in comparison with the control and VS100 groups. Furthermore, in carrageenan and formalin induced anti-inflammatory test both VS200 and VS400 were shown to produce significant (p< 0.05) anti-inflammatory effect at the later hours and days. The findings from this study suggest that 80% methanol root extract of V. sinaiticum possesses peripheral and central analgesic as well as anti-inflammatory activity, possibly emanating from the phytochemicals present in the hydroalcoholic crude extract.

Brazilian Red Propolis Presents Promising Anti-H. pylori Activity in In Vitro and In Vivo Assays with the Ability to Modulate the Immune Response.

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative, microaerophilic, curved-rod, flagellated bacterium commonly found in the stomach mucosa and associated with different gastrointestinal diseases. With high levels of prevalence worldwide, it has developed resistance to the antibiotics used in its therapy. Brazilian red propolis has been studied due to its biological properties, and in the literature, it has shown promising antibacterial activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate anti-H. pylori from the crude hydroalcoholic extract of Brazilian red propolis (CHEBRP). For this, in vitro determination of the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration (MIC/MBC) and synergistic activity and in vivo, microbiological, and histopathological analyses using Wistar rats were carried out using CHEBRP against H. pylori strains (ATCC 46523 and clinical isolate). CHEBRP presented MIC/MBC of 50 and 100 μg/mL against H. pylori strains (ATCC 43526 and clinical isolate, respectively) and tetracycline MIC/MBC of 0.74 µg/mL. The association of CHEBRP with tetracycline had an indifferent effect. In the stomach mucosa of rats, all treatments performed significantly decreased the number of H. pylori, and a concentration of 300 mg/kg was able to modulate the inflammatory response in the tissue. Therefore, CHEBRP showed promising anti-H. pylori in in vitro and in vivo assays.

Green and proficient process for industrial-scale preparation of Gymnema sylvestre standardized-extract enriched with Gymnemic acids through polymer-matrix-adsorption to reduce hyperglycemia

Gymnema sylvestre is an important medicinal plant, but a method for preparing standardized extract enriched with biomarkers is not available. The practiced crude hydro-alcoholic extracts of G. sylvestre contained a few percentage of gymnemic acids (GAs). The enrichment of GAs in preprared extracts is essential from a pharmacology point of view. Presently, a scale-up process has been developed for preparing G. sylvestre standardized extract (Gym-EEXT). Crude extract (Gym-Crude) was prepared in 10-kg batches to obtain a yield of 268.1 mg/g, but GAs was merely 9 mg/g (GA-IV 6.7 mg/g, and GA-XVII 2.3 mg/g) in 30 % ethanol–water solvent at 50 °C in 5 h. Further, Gym-Crude was processed through polymer-matrix-adsorption techniques for getting Gym-EEXT (150.9 mg/g) with improved percentage of GAs (>10 %) comprised of deacylgymnemic acid (DGA: 8.9 mg/g), gymnemagenin (2.3 mg/g), GA-IV (78.6 mg/g), and GA-XVII (10.2 mg/g). For safety aspects, the pesticide residues, solvent residues, heavy metal, aflatoxins, and mutagenicity in Gym-EEXT were below the detection limits.Hence, Gym-EEXT was enriched with GAs, and fully safe with compliance according to USP-561.An insignificant effect of Gym-EEXT on vitals of experimental mice was observed in acute and sub-acute oral-toxicity experiments.Gym-EEXT significantly improved the blood glucose metabolism, and hence, it potentially reduces hyperglycaemia. Unique chromatographic protocols were developed for the isolation of biomarkers on a 1-kg scale from Gym-Crude with yield of gymnemagenin (5.5 %), and DGA (4.6 %). Finally, a novel, scientifically validated, and the scale-up process has been developed for the preparation of Gym-EEXT along with an exclusive protocol for isolating its biomarkers.

Phytocosmetic Emulsion Containing Extract of Morus nigra L. (Moraceae): Development, Stability Study, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities

Morus nigra L. is a species popularly known in the Northeast of Brazil as “amora miúra”. This species is a source of flavonoids with antioxidant activity. Antioxidants play an important role in the preservation of cosmetic formulations, and they neutralize free radicals. The objective of this study was to develop a topical emulsion containing leaf extract of Morus nigra L., as well as to evaluate the stability, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the formulations. A crude hydroalcoholic (70%) extract of M. nigra leaves (MnCE) was submitted to high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC–DAD) analysis and incorporated into an anionic base emulsion. Antioxidant activity was evaluated according to the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method, and the stability of the formulation was assessed for 90 days, submitting the emulsion to storage at 4, 20, and 37 °C. Microdilution techniques evaluated the antibacterial activity and a challenge test assessed the microbiological stability. Analysis by HPLC–DAD identified the flavonoids rutin and isoquercetin in the M. nigra extract. The emulsion and plant extract presented antioxidant activity, and the stability of the emulsion was preserved in terms of pH value and viscosity—which did not show significant changes, except for the spreadability, which was affected by the temperature. The antioxidant activity did not change significantly, except for the sample under 4 °C, which showed a considerable decrease in activity. The crude hydroalcoholic extract and formulation showed antimicrobial activity and the emulsion was considered stable in terms of organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological properties.

The Inhibitory Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract from the Algerian Echium trygorrhizum Pomel Roots on α-amylase Activity

Background: Species of Echium trygorrhizum Pomel are used traditionally in Algeria folk medicine for the treatment of Diabetes, Jaundice and Tonsillitis. To our knowledge, no previous study has been conducted on the pharmacological activities of this species. Objective: The objective of the present research was to evaluate the content of polyphenols, flavonoids and condensed tannins compounds and to assess in vitro the antioxidant activity and the inhibitory effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of this plant on α-amylase activity, an enzyme responsible for digestion of carbohydrate before the process of intestinal absorption. Methods: Polyphenols, flavonoids and condensed tannins were evaluated spectrophotometrically using Folin-Ciocalteu, the Aluminum chloride and vanillin methods, respectively. The antioxidant activity using DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS, Ferric reducing antioxidant power and β-carotene bleaching tests and the assessment of in vitro α-amylase inhibitory potential by an Aspergillus oryzae α- amylase have been studied. Results: The hydroalcoholic crude extract was able to inhibit the α-amylase enzyme in vitro, with an IC50 of 0.56 ± 0.044 mg/ml, in addition, the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids were found to be 157.403 ± 0.835 μg GAE/mg extract and 30.156±2.634μg Q E / mg extract, respectively, Whereas the amount of tannins was 65.293 ± 0.883μg Cat E/ mg of dry extract. Conclusion: The present study revealed that the extract is rich in phenolic compounds, which play a really important role in the scavenging of free radicals. The inhibitory capacity of hydroalcoholic roots extract on Aspergillus oryzae α-amylase enzyme has been reported and might be used as a natural agent within the management of diabetes mellitus.