Mixture Of Extracts Research Articles

Evaluation of the Effects of Whey Protein and Moringa Oleifera Leaves Extract Mixture on Osseointegration in Rabbits.

Osteogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Whey protein and M. oleifera gel prompted us to evaluate their role alone or in combination on osseointegration in rabbits. In this study, 24 titanium implants were inserted in the femurs of six rabbits. One implant was placed without treatment, and another one was coated with a mixture of whey protein and M. oleifera gel for each side. The animals were divided into two groups of 2- and 6-week intervals and evaluated using histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques. Histological evaluation revealed a significant difference between the experimental and the control groups after two weeks in osteoblast and osteocyte counts. The experimental group had mature bone development after six weeks of implantation, while the control group had a woven bone. Immunohistochemical results showed that the experimental group, compared to the control group, exhibited early positive expression of osteoblast cells at two weeks after the experiment. Based on histopathological observations, the experimental group showed a tiny area of collagenous fiber in 6th week after the implantation. A mixture of whey protein and M. oleifera could accelerate osseointegration and healing processes.

Green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using christia vespertilionis aerial parts extract: A sustainable approach for antibacterial efficacy assessment

Metal nanoparticles typically exhibit sizes ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers and can be produced by several techniques, such as green synthesis and chemical synthesis. This study focuses on the green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) using aerial extract of Christia vespertilionis. The observation of CuO-NPs formation was made based on the variations in colour exhibited by the extract mixture following the introduction of copper (II) sulphate (CuSO4). The synthesised nanoparticles underwent characterization utilising various instrumentation techniques, including UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, TEM, SEM, EDX, and TGA. The antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles was assessed by using disc diffusion method, against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The investigation also encompassed an examination of the combined effect of the nanoparticles and the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin on antibacterial activity. In this study, it was noted that the maximum absorbance of the CuO-NPs occurred at a wavelength of 253nm. The functional groups of the CuO-NPs were confirmed through FTIR spectrum. TEM analysis revealed the average particle size of the CuO-NPs as 62.16 nm. Additionally, examination of SEM images revealed that the particles exhibited irregular shapes while maintaining a homogeneous distribution. The nanoparticles exhibited enhanced antibacterial efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria in comparison to the Gram-negative bacteria that were examined. Significant synergistic effect was shown when the CuoNPs were used with the antibiotic against the bacteria tested. In conclusion, the study conducted demonstrates favorable outcomes as an antibacterial agent and recommended to conduct additional research to investigate the mechanism of action and toxicity of this agent.

Evaluation of some bio pesticidal plants in the management of Meloidogyne incognita

Utilization of compounds in extracts derived from medicinal plants is in vogue now for managing Meloidogyne incognita on crops owing to the unpopular use of synthetic nematicides especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, extracts from Azadirachta indica A. Juss and Hyptis suaveolens obtained using hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol were tested for their efficacy in inhibiting egg hatching and inducing larval mortality of Meloidogyne incognita obtained from tomato bioassay maintained in Screenhouse. The extracts obtained from each solvent were reconstituted using Tween80+Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and evaluated on hatching inhibition and larval mortality of Meloidogyne incognita at concentrations of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%. Furadan served as standard checks while distilled water and Tween80+(DMSO) as controls. Two separate experiments were conducted with 39 treatments each arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four repetitions on the laboratory bench for the hatching inhibition and larval mortality. Ninety (90) µL of each extract was added to 10 µL suspension containing either 15 eggs or second-stage larvae of Meloidogyne incognita pipette into cavity glass blocks. Hatching inhibition and larval mortality readings were recorded at 6, 12, 24, and 36 hours. Results indicated that Neem and Hyptis mixture at all concentrations extracted using any of the solvents gave 100% egg hatching inhibition from the 6th to the 36th h after treatment application. Only Neem and Hyptis mixture at 0.5% extracted in chloroform gave 100% larval mortality at the 6th h till the 36th h among the lowest concentration of the mixtures of the plant extracts. Combined solvent extracts of the two plants showed the highest activity in both hatching inhibition and larval mortality but individual solvent extracts showed the highest activity only at the highest rates used. The acute toxicity test of the most effective solvent extract of Neem and Hyptis at 0.5% extracted in Chloroform did not cause any sign of toxicity or death in the test animals.

Effects of mixed extract from two tropical plants on gut microbiome and metabolome in piglets.

In this study, we performed a quantitative analysis of 12 compounds derived from Piper sarmentosum extract (PSE) and guava leaf extract(GE). In addition, we investigated the effects of mixed extract (ME) of PSE and GE (1:1) on piglets' gut microbiome and metabolome. A total of 200 piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Large Yorkshire, 21-day-old) were randomly assigned into two groups with five replicates of 20 piglets/pen having the same initial body weight. Piglets were fed a basal diet supplemented with ME at 0 (T0) or 200 mg/kg (T1) for 3 weeks. The quantitation results by ultraperformance liquid chromatography linked to triple-quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry showed that vitexin 2-O-rhamnoside and pellitorine were the greatest abundant among six compounds detected in the PSE. In addition, quercetin, isoquercitrinand avicularin were found to be the richest of all detected compounds in the GE. Findings on experimental animals indicated that three differential metabolites, comprising L-alanine, sarcosineand dihydrofolic acid, in T1 compared with T0 groups, have exactly opposite levels trends in serum and faeces. Moreover, two metabolic pathways (i.e., urea cycle and glutamate metabolism) differed significantly in the serum and faeces of piglets between T0 and T1 (p < 0.05). At the same time, T1 had significantly higher relative abundances of Agathobacter and Alloprevotella than T0 at genus level (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that the genus Agathobacter correlated positively with carbamoyl phosphate (p < 0.01) and oxoglutaric acid (p < 0.05), and negatively with succinic acid (p < 0.01) and ornithine (p < 0.05). These four differential metabolites were also involved in the urea cycle and/or glutamate metabolism pathways. The results here indicated that the tested plant extract mixture represents a worthy feed additive with obvious antioxidative properties.

Seaweed extract as an effective dough conditioner in bread manufacturing

Sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima) contains many functional components that can influence the dough and bread matrix. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a liquid extract obtained from sugar kelp as a dough conditioner. The study employs a central composite design to investigate the interactions among three factors: an untreated extract, a heat-treated extract (targeting heat-sensitive components), and the presence of NaCl (natively abundant in kelp and potentially masking other functional components). The objective is to uncover the influences of the potential functional components and determine whether the liquid extract can function as a dough conditioner. The response surface methodology was used to analyze the impact on several volume and texture measurements and determine an optimal formula. A mixture of the heat-treated extract and untreated extract at different concentrations significantly enhanced loaf height and resilience while firmness decreased, compared to the conventional bread. The results show that a liquid extract obtained from sugar kelp can function as an effective dough conditioner in wheat bread.

A mixture of extracts from natural ingredients reduces the neurotoxic polarization of microglia via modulating NF-κB/NF-E2-related factor 2 activation.

Neurotoxic microglia-provoked neuroinflammation is implicated in cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Supplementation with Ginkgo biloba, phosphatidylserine, Curcuma longa, and propolis is reported to improve the cognitive functions of elderly people; however, the underlying mechanisms of this combination of natural ingredients are unknown. We investigated the effects of a mixture of extracts from propolis, Coffea arabica, Gotu kola, phosphatidylserine, Ginkgo biloba, and Curcuma longa (mixture) on microglia polarization after exposure to amyloid β1-42 (Aβ1-42, 1 μM) and lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis (PgLPS, 1 μg/mL), using MG6 and BV2 microglial cells. Exposure to Aβ1-42 and PgLPS (AL) raised the mRNA expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, nuclear translocation of p65 NF-κB in MG6 cells and BV2 cells, and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in MG6 cells. The mixture dramatically suppressed the mRNA expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, but significantly promoted that of IL-10, TGFβ1, and BDNF in AL-exposed MG6 and BV2 cells. Furthermore, the mixture significantly suppressed the nuclear translocation of p65 NF-κB but significantly promoted that of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in AL-exposed MG6 and BV2 cells. Furthermore, the mixture significantly ameliorated mitochondrial ROS production but increased mitochondrial membrane potential in MG6 cells. These observations strongly suggest that the mixture demotes the neuropathic polarization of microglia by modulating NF-κB/Nrf2 activation and improving mitochondrial functions. This study supplies the potential mechanisms of the efficacy of a combination of natural ingredients that can be applied in the prevention of cognitive decline in AD and aging by targeting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation.

Extraction of Rare Earth Elements from Chloride Solutions Using Mixtures of P507 and Cyanex 272

In this study, the extraction of rare earth elements (REEs) from chloride solutions after leaching REE carbonate concentrate with solutions of the mixtures of P507 (2-ethylhexylphosphonic acid mono-2-ethylhexyl ester) and Cyanex 272 (bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid) (1:1) at various concentrations was experimentally studied. It was shown that the distribution ratios of all REEs decrease with the increasing concentration of these metals in the initial solution, which is associated with the loading of the organic phase. The most significant improvement in the extraction is observed for the heavy group of rare earth elements. The extractability of REEs increases with the increasing atomic number of the element, as is typical for the extraction of these metals with acidic organophosphorus extractants. The data obtained show that the separation factors of adjacent rare earth elements decrease slightly with the increasing concentration of metals in the initial aqueous solution. Increasing the concentration of the extractant mixture does not have a significant effect on the values of the adjacent REE separation factors. The data obtained on the distribution ratios and separation factors made it possible to propose a flow sheet for the separation of rare earth elements with the production of Y, Ho, Tb and Dy.

Utilization of Ipomoea batatas L. tuber extract for the development of dye-sensitized solar cell with modified electrode from rice husk ash

A dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) is a solar cell device that works based on electro photochemical principles in which sensitive dyes are absorbed in the layer of photoelectrode. The utilization of natural dyes as a substitute for high-cost material in DSSC has been developed. Purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) has high anthocyanin content, is safe to use, and has renewable properties that can be used as dyes in a layer of DSSC. Purple sweet potatoes contain a lot of fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins C and B1, and minerals needed in DSSC. The semiconductor compiler to produce solar cells is expensive and requires many. Rice husk has a relatively high silica content, about 87-97%, that can be used as a low-cost and environmentally friendly silicon. The result of this study showed the absorbance peak for the mixture of extract and rice husk ash at 320 nm. DSSC fabrication obtained the highest efficiency of 1.1 x 10-3 with Imax = 0.0015 mA and Vmax = 0.02 mV. The physical characteristics were observed using SEM and XRD. Natural dye from purple sweet potato and rice husk ash semiconductors can be alternatives for DSSC production.

Elimination of detached Listeria monocytogenes from the biofilm on stainless steel surfaces during milk and cheese processing using natural plant extracts

Bacterial cells can form biofilm on food contact surfaces, becoming a source of food contamination with profound health implications. The current study aimed to determine some Egyptian medicinal plants antibacterial and antibiofilm effects against foodborne bacterial strains in milk plants. Results indicated that four ethanolic plant extracts, Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), Marigold (Calendula officinalis), and Sage (Salvia officinalis), had antibacterial (12.0–26.5 mm of inhibition zone diameter) and antibiofilm (10–99%) activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium. The tested extracts had minimum inhibitory concentration values between 0.14 and 2.50 mg/ml and minimum bactericidal concentration values between 0.14 and 12.50 mg/ml. L. monocytogenes was more sensitive for all tested ethanolic extracts; Sage and Cinnamon showed a bacteriocidal effect, while Chamomile and Marigold were bacteriostatic. The ethanolic extracts mixture from Chamomile, Sage, and Cinnamon was chosen for its antibiofilm activity against L. monocytogenes using L-optimal mixture design. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis showed that this mixture contained 12 chemical compounds, where 2-Propenal,3-phenyl- had the maximum area % (34.82%). At concentrations up to 500 µg/ml, it had no cytotoxicity in the normal Vero cell line, and the IC50 value was 671.76 ± 9.03 µg/ml. Also, this mixture showed the most significant antibacterial effect against detached L. monocytogenes cells from formed biofilm in stainless steel milk tanks. At the same time, white soft cheese fortified with this mixture was significantly accepted overall for the panelist (92.2 ± 2.7) than other cheese samples, including the control group.

Sinergisme Ekstrak Campuran Daun Mimba dan Serai terhadap Walang Sangit pada Tanaman Padi (Oryza sativa L.)

The aim of the research was to determine the synergism of a mixture of Azadirachta indica and Cymbopogon nardus extracts on L. oratorius. and its efficacy on the population, intensity of attacks and rice yields. This research began in October to November 2023 at the Plant Protection Laboratory of the Jember State Polytechnic and Rice Plants in Dukuh Mencek Village, Sukorambi District, Jember Regency. The research method is as follows: Bioassay test to determine the toxicity of LC95 against L. oratorius imago, using 6 different concentrations, namely control (distilled water), 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%. Each 10 insects were tested, repeated three times, using the feed immersion method for 10 seconds. LC95 toxicity using Probit analysis, with PoloPlus 1.0 software. Next, it is used to determine the synergism of the bioinsecticide mixture and field tests. Field tests compared the efficacy of bioinecticide on the population and intensity attacks and crop yields. The results of the research were: bioinsecticide, a mixture of neem and lemongrass leaf extracts, was more toxic than those used alone, and has a synergistic impact. The population, intensity of attacks and yields compared to Imdakloprid were not significantly different.

Exploring pharmacokinetics and herb-drug interactions of an herbal extract mixture derived from Poria cocos and Morus alba L.

Exploring pharmacokinetics and herb-drug interactions of an herbal extract mixture derived from Poria cocos and Morus alba L.

Combination Effect of Extracts and Pure Compounds of Endophytic Fungi Isolated from Sungkai (Peronema canescens) Leaves on Antioxidant Activity

Endophytic fungi extracts have various biological and pharmacological activities as natural antioxidants which have the potential to be developed in the pharmaceutical. Drugs made from natural substances frequently work best when they are present in large quantities. This may result in unfavorable side effects from using more of one substance at a time. This limitation can be overcome by using a combination of the extracts/pure compounds that allow synergistic interactions with strong antioxidant properties at fairly low concentrations. The purpose of this research was to determine the combined effect of endophytic fungi extracts and its pure compounds on their antioxidant activity. This research was initiated by rejuvenating eight selected endophytic fungal isolates from Sungkai leaves and morphological characterization was carried out. Each fungus was cultivated in PDB medium for 4 weeks under statistical conditions. Ethyl acetate was used to extract the endophytic fungi’s liquid culture, which was then evaporated. Each endophytic fungal extract (PD1-PD8) and their five pure compounds were tested for antioxidant activity by the DPPH method. Then a combination of two and three extracts was carried out with a ratio of 1:1. The results show that the interaction of the mixture of endophytic fungi extracts and their pure compounds can be classified as synergistic (combined effect of the extracts &gt; individual effects), additive (combined effect of the extracts = individual effect), and nothing is antagonistic (combined effect of the extracts &lt; individual effects). The best combination in this study was PD4+PD5+PD6 (1:1:1) which could be used as a formula for further research into in vivo immunostimulant tests. Another conclusion from this research is that the pure compounds contained in the extracts have lower antioxidant activity than the extracts and do not have a synergistic effect on the combination.

Anti-Aging Properties of Chitosan-Based Hydrogels Rich in Bilberry Fruit Extract.

Photoaging is a process related to an increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Polyphenols can scavenge free radicals in the body, which can delay skin aging. Therefore, our work aimed to prepare a biologically active extract from dry fruits of Vaccinium myrtillus or Vaccinium corymbosum and use it for the preparation of hydrogels for topical application. Therefore, eight different extracts (using V. myrtillus and V. corymbosum and different extraction mixtures: methanol, methanol-water 1:1, water, acetone-water 1:1) were prepared and their phytochemical (total polyphenolic content, total flavonoid content, total anthocyanin content) and biological properties (antioxidant, anti-hyaluronidase, and anti-tyrosinase activity) were assessed. Cytotoxicity towards HaCaT keratinocytes was also determined. Based on the results, the acetone-water extract from V. myrtillus was selected for further study. Using the Design of Experiments approach, chitosan-based hydrogels with bilberry fruit extract were prepared. The content of extract and chitosan were selected as independent factors. The activity of hydrogels depended on the extract content; however, the enzyme-inhibiting (anti-hyaluronidase and anti-tyrosinase) activity resulted from the presence of both the extract and chitosan. Increased concentration of chitosan in the hydrogel base led to increased viscosity of the hydrogel and, consequently, a slower release of active compounds. To get optimal hydrogel characteristics, 1% extract and 2.5% MMW chitosan were utilized. The research suggests the validity of using bilberry fruit extracts in topical preparations with anti-aging properties.

Efficacy of binary mixtures and antagonistic effect of Azadirachta indica on Afranamum melegueta against helminth parasites of fish in Epe lagoon

This research aims to investigate the efficacy of binary mixtures and interaction of extracts of Azadirachta indica and Afranamum melegueta in reference with praziquantel at Fish Low Observed Effect Concentration (LOEC) on classes of fish parasite species. An in-vitro study was conducted using binary extract mixtures of A.melegueta and A.indica (ratios 1:3, 1:1 and 3:1) respectively on each of the classes of fish helminth parasites and saline solution was used as the control. Average Survival Time (AST) and percentage Reduction in Survival Time (%RST) as measure of sensitivity were estimated for the parasites at varying toxicities (fish 96 h LC5, LC10, LC50) with reference to praziquantel. Saponin and Terpenoid had the highest presence in ethanol mix (water) in A.indica and A.melegueta. The sensitivities of the parasites to the extracts and praziquantel in decreasing order is; A.melegueta (singly) > Praziquantel > 3:1 mix > 1:1 mix > 1:3 mix > A.indica (singly). Increase in the proportion of A. indica decreases the combined effect of the mixtures on the parasites, thereby, decreasing the effect of A. melegueta when acting singly. Tenuisentis sp, an acanthocephalan showed sensitivity of RST >80 % against A. melegueta (singly) similar to praziquantel, the sensitivity was reduced to RST <80 % with 3:1 mix, and significantly reduced to RST close to 60 % with 1:3 mix. Other parasite species had similar trend. There was significant correlation (r > 0.70) between parasite sensitivities to praziquantel and A.melegueta (singly) as well as its binary mixtures at the fish Low Observed Effect Concentration (LOEC). This indicates that the binary extract mixtures could serve as potential alternatives to the use of chemotherapy considering their potency and wide margin of fish host safety.

Preventive effects of a nutraceutical mixture of berberine, citrus and apple extracts on metabolic disturbances in Zucker fatty rats.

The prevention of obesity represents a major health and socio-economic challenge. Nutraceuticals are regularly highlighted for their beneficial effects in preventing the metabolic disturbances associated with obesity. However, few studies have described the combined action of nutraceutical mixtures combining polyphenols with alkaloids. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of long-term dietary supplementation with a mixture of Berberine, Citrus and Apple extracts (BCA) in the primary prevention of obesity and its metabolic and vascular complications in the obese Zucker rat, a spontaneous model of genetic obesity and insulin resistance. Sixteen 8-week-old obese Zucker male rats were randomly divided into two groups: all rats received oral gavage daily either with water, untreated obese (U-ObZ) or BCA (BCA-ObZ) mixture for thirteen weeks. Morphological and metabolic parameters were measured along the study. Cumulative concentration-response curves to insulin, acetylcholine and phenylephrine were determined on isolated thoracic aorta. Colon permeability measurements were performed using the Ussing chamber technique. Fecal samples collected at the beginning and the end of the protocol were used as a template for amplification of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rDNA genes. BCA supplementation reduced weight gain (p<0.05) and food intake (p<0.05) in the BCA-ObZ group rats compared to the U-ObZ group rats. It also improved glucose tolerance (p<0.001) and decreased fasting insulin and Homeostasis model assessment index (p<0.05). Through ex vivo experiments, the BCA mixture enhanced significantly aortic insulin relaxation (p<0.01), reduced α1-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction (p<0.01), and decreased distal colon permeability. Moreover, short-chain fatty acid producers such as Bacteroides, Blautia, and Akkermansia were found to be increased by the BCA mixture supplementation. The results showed that a 13-week-supplementation with BCA mixture prevented weight gain and improved glucose metabolism in obese Zucker rats. We also demonstrated that BCA supplementation improved vascular function, colonic barrier permeability and gut microbiota profile.

TOXICITY OF LEAF AND ROOT EXTRACT OF ANTING-ANTING (Acalypha indica L.) ON MORTALITY OF AEDES AEGYPTI

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is still one of the main public health problems and often has the status of an Extraordinary Event (KLB) with a high number of cases in a number of regions in Indonesia. Mosquito control with active chemical compounds can be difficult to decompose in nature and cause mosquitoes to become resistant to the next generation. As a substitute, the anting plant (Acalypha indica L.), which has been considered a weed, has bioactive compounds that can be used as natural insecticides. Biological control of vectors by using natural insecticides, a mixture of leaf and root extracts of the anting plant. The study used a mixture of leaf and root extracts of the anting plant using 7 treatments consisting of 5 serial concentrations of 250ppm, 500ppm, 750ppm, 800ppm, and 1000ppm, one positive control group using Aedes and one more negative control using Abate. The concentration that can kill 50% of Aedes aegypti larvae or (LC50) within 24 hours of exposure is 766,000 ppm. The plants contain secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and steroids which are toxic to the larvae of the Aedes aegypti mosquito.&#x0D; Keywords: Acalypha indica L., Aedes aeypti; Toxicity

Extraction of hydrocarbons from “yellow oil” with liquefied gas residue

In order to extract the hydrocarbon content obtained from “Yellow oil” by using the liquefied gas residue collected at the bottom of the gas bottles during the distribution of liquefied gas to the local population, the properties of the liquefied gas residue were analyzed by traditional methods and the chemical composition was analyzed with the help of chromatographic methods. Based on the results of the analysis, it has been proven that it can be used as an extractant due to the fact that its composition consists of a mixture of paraffin hydrocarbons. In the extraction of hydrocarbon content, when extracting abilities of hexane and liquefied gas residue were studied, it was found that separation of raffinate from the extraction mixture is carried out twice as fast in liquefied gas residue as compared to hexane. It is recommended to use it as an extractant in the extraction of hydrocarbon content.

Field efficacy of Gliding Arc Plasma Activated Water and natural products on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) late blight [Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary] severity

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the field efficacy of plasma-activated water (PAW) as a novel technology in agriculture together with vinegar, sodium bicarbonate, and plant aqueous extracts against tomato late blight in a complete randomised block design. Ten treatments were evaluated: Plasma activated water (PAW), a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and vinegar at different ratios (25/75, 50/50 and 75/25) and different mixtures of aqueous plant extracts made up of ten plants: Ageratum conyzoides, Eucalyptus saligna, Azadirachta indica, Panax quinquefolius, Callistemon viminalis, Euphorbia hirta, E. cordifolia Laggera pterodonta, Ocimum gratissimum and avocado pit powder. Plantizeb and distilled water were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. There was a significant difference (p &lt; 0.05) in the growth variables between treatments at 10 weeks after transplanting (WAT). All the treatments reduced late blight severity compared to the negative control (100 %) at 10 WAT. Late blight severity on plants treated with Plantizeb, PAW, the mixture of bicarbonate and vinegar (B+V) at 50/50 (33.24 %) and the mixture of E. hirta + E. cordifolia extract (33.33 %) was the lowest and significantly comparable (p &lt; 0.05) to Plantizeb (31.67 %). Tomato yield was 2.24 t/ha (negative control), 28.56 t/ha (Plantizeb), 27.23 t/ha (PAW), 30.32 t / ha (B+V at 50/50), and 27.69 t/ha (mixture of the aqueous extract of E. hirta + E. cordifolia). The PAW, the mixtures between B+V at 50/50, and the aqueous extract of E. hirta and E. cordifolia could be exploited for their bioactivity in late blight management in field conditions.

The effect of a thyme-ivy fluid extract combination on the severity of cough in children: randomized controlled trial

Thyme and ivy leaves contain anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and bronchospasmolytic properties, resulting in anti-cough benefits. There are no extensive studies conducted on the efficacy of thyme and ivy in children with acute cough. The purpose of the study was to investigate the efficiency and safety of thyme and ivy in reducing the severity of cough in children. This study was a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical experiment on children aged 1 to 12-year old who had an acute cough with no identified etiology. One hundred and forty-two patients were randomly assigned to dextromethorphan or herbal groups, and frequency and severity were measured using a visual analog scale. After the initiation of therapy, recovery trends were assessed at 24, 48, and 96 hours. Eighty-three patients, including 43 patients in the dextromethorphan group and 40 in the herbal group, were followed for 96 hours. Cough severity was decreased by 80.7% in the dextromethorphan group and 87.4% in the herbal syrup group. In addition, there was a significant interaction effect of time and groups on changes in cough severity. In the groups of dextromethorphan and herbal after 96 hours of complete treatment, the efficacy was 72.1% and 75%, respectively, which showed the beneficial effects of both drugs. In children, a mixture of thyme and ivy extracts can help to reduce the severity and length of the cough. As a result, this combination has the potential to be an effective cough therapy for children.

Standardized mixture of Pluchea indica and Sauropus androgynus extract stimulates the gene expression associated with lactogenesis in rats

Pluchea indica (P. indica) and Sauropus androgynus (S. androgynus) are medicinal plants empirically used as an herbal galactogogue, but their mechanism of action has not been elucidated at the molecular level in the form of a mixed extract. This research aimed to standardize and investigate the combined effects of P. indica leaf extract (EPI) and S. androgynus leaf extract (ESA) on the expressions of prolactin (PRL), PRL receptor (PRLR), oxytocin (OXT), and OXT receptor (OXTR) genes in pituitary and mammary glands of lactating rats. The extracts were prepared by maceration in 70% ethanol. Standardization was done by examining non-specific parameters and determining total flavonoids using spectrophotometric analysis. Twenty-four lactating rats were divided into six groups. Group I: CMC 0.5% as control, II: EPI 500 mg/kgBW, III: ESA 125 mg/kgBW, and IV–VI were given combination formula EPI-ESA 1: 125+31.25, EPI-ESA 2: 250+62.5, and EPI-ESA 3: 500+125 mg/kgBW (orally, once a day) from the 2nd–15th day after parturition. On the 16th day, experimental animals were euthanized for tissue sampling, and gene expression was measured using real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The study of the non-specific parameters revealed water content, total ash, and acid-insoluble ash met criteria based on the Indonesian Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Evaluation of total flavonoids yielded 7.33% ± 0.00% and 3.84% ± 0.01% w/w for EPI and ESA, respectively. Test results showed balanced induction of all target genes was achieved when subjects received EPI-ESA 2. We concluded that EPI-ESA can potentially support lactogenesis by stimulating the expressions of PRL, PRLR, OXT, and OXTR genes.