Herbal Extracts Research Articles

The Neuroprotective Effects of Oroxylum indicum Extract in SHSY-5Y Neuronal Cells by Upregulating BDNF Gene Expression under LPS Induced Inflammation.

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role during neuronal development as well as during differentiation and synaptogenesis. They are important proteins present in the brain that support neuronal health and protect the neurons from detrimental signals. The results from the present study suggest BDNF expression can be increase up to ~8-fold by treating the neuroblastoma cells SHSY-5Y with an herbal extract of Oroxylum indicum (50 μg/mL) and ~5.5-fold under lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced inflammation conditions. The Oroxylum indicum extract (Sabroxy) was standardized to 10% oroxylin A, 6% chrysin, and 15% baicalein. In addition, Sabroxy has shown to possess antioxidant activity that could decrease the damage caused by the exacerbation of radicals during neurodegeneration. A mode of action of over expression of BDNF with and without inflammation is proposed for the Oroxylum indicum extract, where the three major hydroxyflavones exert their effects through additive or synergistic effects via five possible targets including GABA, Adenoside A2A and estrogen receptor bindings, anti-inflammatory effects, and reduced mitochondrial ROS production.

The antipsychotic potential of Salix Mucronata on ketamine-induced rats

Salix mucronata is one of the herbal plants offered by the traditional health practitioners in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa for the treatment of schizophrenia. This study aimed to investigate the effects of repeated administration of ketamine on social interaction, novelty and motivation in adult, male Sprague Dawley rats. It also aimed to investigate the potential of risperidone and the herbal extract of S. mucronata to reverse impairments that are induced by ketamine. Experimental rats (n=45) received a dose of ketamine at 30 mg/kg via intraperitoneal injection for 5 consecutive days. They were then allocated into their respective treatment groups and given risperidone (APD) and the herbal extract of S. mucronata (TM) at doses of 6 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg, respectively, for 7 consecutive days. Social behaviour was tested using the 3-chambered sociability test, and anhedonia was tested using the sucrose preference test. Ketamine induction elicited social withdrawal and reduced social novelty which were later successfully reversed by risperidone and S. mucronata. The rats showed reduced preference to sucrose post-induction and post-treatment. Ketamine and mild stress caused by scruff restraint elicited reduced weight gain for the animals. No differences were noted on brain mass between controls and experimental groups and also between risperidone and S. mucronata groups. However, reduced brain volume was noted in experimental groups. Dopamine and acetylcholine concentration levels were high in groups which received risperidone and S. mucronata. These findings highlight that the antipsychotic potential of S. mucronata is similar to risperidone.

Biological Activity of Horehound (Marrubium vulgare L.) Herb Grown in Poland and Its Phytochemical Composition.

Marrubium vulgare (Lamiaceae) is a plant which has long been known and used in traditional medicine for various purposes. However, few recent studies have documented its chemical composition and biological properties. The present study investigated the phytochemical composition of horehound, as well as its protective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial potential. GC-MS analysis revealed that the major components of horehound essential oil are E-caryophyllene (35.7%), germacrene D (25.2%), and bicyclogermacrene (10.6%). The biological activity of horehound hydroethanolic herb extract derives from multiple chemical compounds, including polyphenols (55.72 mg/mL), flavonoids (11.01 mg/mL), phenolic acids (4.33 mg/mL), and tannins (4.46 mg/mL). Chromatographic analyses of the extract identified 12 phenolic compounds, of which ferulic acid, catechin, quercetin, protocatechuic acid, rutin, and syringic acid (35.42, 24.69, 20.65, 18.70, 14.46, and 12.69 mg/mL, respectively) were the main constituents. Its DPPH radical scavenging ability was 68.29%, while its antioxidant properties, determined by the FRAP method, were at the level of 1.22 mmol/L. Moreover, M. vulgare extract decreased the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species in the fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro, achieving the strongest antioxidant effect at a concentration of 2.5% in the case of both types of skin cells. Extracts from the horehound herb showed significant antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity, confirming the plant's potential in therapeutic applications against various microbial pathogens (gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and fungi). The research results demonstrate the protective effect of horehound extract on the viability of both fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro. To sum up, M. vulgare, as a valuable natural material with high preventive and therapeutic effectiveness, is a potential candidate for new applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.

Formulation of Mouthwash Using Combined Herbal Extracts to Control the Predominant Oral Pathogens and Biofilm

IntroductionGlobally, oral disease is a major health problem, which affects the quality of life. The role of oral microflora in the oral diseases is well established. However, with the increase in the frequency of oral disease, the development of antimicrobial drug resistance to the existing drugs has insisted on searching for alternative drugs from plant sources. Herein, herbal-based mouthwash is formulated to effectively control the dominant oral pathogens. MethodsThe antimicrobial activity of plant extracts was evaluated against oral pathogens by zone of inhibition test. Mouthwash was formulated with one gram of each plant extracts (Rosa damascena flower petals, Coleus amboinicus leaves, Psidium guajava leaves, and Phyllanthus acidus fruits) in 10% ethanol. Antimicrobial efficacy of the formulated mouthwash was assessed against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans by standard protocol. Also, the antibiofilm effect of the formulated mouthwash was assessed against preformed S mutans biofilm and visualised using SEM and CLSM. ResultsThe formulated mouthwash exhibits excellent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration result indicates that the susceptibility of the pathogens was found as follows: S aureus <S mutans <C albicans <E faecalis <E coli. Also, it shows a great anti-inflammatory effect. SEM and CLSM images reveal that the formulated mouthwash has the potential to inhibit the oral biofilm of S. mutants. ConclusionsThis study concludes that the formulated herbal-based mouthwash might be useful in controlling multiple oral pathogens and biofilms.

Natural product nanozymes of herbal extract galangin in managing hepatocellular carcinoma.

Numerous local herbal extract species have been investigated as potential medicinal ingredients due to their promising anti-cancer properties. However, the primary constraint of the class of plant flavonoids lies in their low solubility and limited membrane permeability, leading to chemical instability and restricted bioavailability that impede biomedical applications. In this study, we have developed an ideal nanozyme-Galazyme, comprising galangin-loaded copper Nanozyme coated by DSPE-PEG, which amplifies oxidative stress to induce apoptosis via the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. Galazyme exhibited significant peroxidase mimetic activity, demonstrating its potential to generate ROS and elevate oxidative stress. Upon uptake by HepG-2 cells, Galazyme efficiently converts excess hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into highly reactive •OH radicals and upregulates MAPK expression, leading to the activation of Bax and Caspase 3, thereby promoting irreversible tumor cell apoptosis. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that Galazyme inhibits tumor cell growth and induces apoptosis by generating ample ROS and activating the MAPK pathway. Our study offers novel evidence supporting the enhancement of Galazyme-induced apoptosis through the upregulation of Bax and Caspase 3, along with the elucidation of the interaction between MAPK and apoptosis.

Comparative pharmacokinetics of multi-components in normal and stomach cold syndrome rats after oral administration of Zingiberis Rhizoma − Jujubae Fructus herb pair and its single herb extracts by UHPLC-MS/MS

The Zingiberis Rhizoma − Jujubae Fructus herb pair (ZJHP) is a classic herb pair in traditional Chinese medicine. The herb pair shows the effect of dispelling cold, harmonizing the middle and improving gastrointestinal function, and is widely used for patients with stomach cold syndrome (SCS), stomachache and anemofrigid cold. The gingerols, shogaols, flavonoids and triterpenic acids are the important bioactive ingredients of ZJHP. However, few pharmacokinetic studies have been investigated in vivo for the above compounds. To comprehend the kinetics of active components and promote their curative application, a fast and sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was established for simultaneous determination of 12 analytes in normal and SCS rats in this study. The results showed that the pharmacokinetic parameters (Cmax, Tmax, t1/2z, MRT0-t, AUC0-t and AUC0-∞) in SCS model were significantly different from those in normal rats. In addition, the pharmacokinetics of rats given ZJHP were also varied from single herb oral administration, especially in model condition. These results indicated that the in vivo processes of the above analytes changed under pathological conditions and the compatibility of the herb pair could significantly influence the absorption of active components, which might provide an insight and further supports for the clinical application of ZJHP.

A Comprehensive Review of Formulations, Ingredients, Advances, and Future Perspectives in Lipcare Cosmetics

Lip care cosmetics have gained immense popularity due to their ability to enhance the appearance and health of the lips. These products encompass lip balms for moisturizing and protecting, lip glosses for imparting shine and subtle color, and lip rouges (lipsticks) for bold, pigmented hues. Lip balms typically contain waxes, oils, butters, and emollients to nourish and shield lips from environmental stressors. Recent advancements involve incorporating herbal extracts, vitamins, and antioxidants for additional benefits. Lip glosses consist of oils, waxes, pigments, and additives, designed to provide a glossy finish and varying degrees of color intensity, from sheer to opaque. Their moisturizing properties, ease of application, and potential for stickiness or transfer are discussed. Lip rouges, available in solid, liquid, or glossy formulations, add vibrant color and definition to the lips. Their formulations include waxes, oils, pigments, and other additives tailored for desired textures and finishes. The historical significance of lip coloring and the growing demand for natural and herbal lip rouges are explored. Recent advances encompass long-wearing formulations, incorporation of active ingredients (anti-aging, skin-lightening), and sustainable, eco-friendly ingredients. Safety assessments and regulatory considerations are crucial for ensuring the responsible development of lip care cosmetics. Continued research and innovation are vital to meet evolving consumer needs and preferences while prioritizing safety and efficacy

Synergistic Effect of Pakistani Honey with Black Seeds against Food Borne Pathogens

Background: Food borne infections is a major public health problem all over the world. For centuries, honey has been used as a gastrointestinal and topical remedy and also as a food preservative. It has been exploited not only as a food but, utilized for multiple purposes such as for the treatment of various disease, for wound healing etc. Black seeds have also been used in traditional medicine and food preservation due to their effective therapeutic properties. The synergy-based combination of both the herbal extracts may enhance the antimicrobial potential against food borne pathogens. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial potential of different variants of Pakistani honey (Acacia honey, Ziziphus honey, and Sidr honey) in combination with black seeds against foodborne pathogens. Methods: The antibacterial activity of different Pakistani honey (Acacia honey, Ziziphus honey, and Sidr honey) was evaluated using an agar well diffusion assay. The synergistic effect of honey and black seed was also examined. Moreover, the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was determined using the tube dilution method. Results: The combination of Ziziphus honey and black seeds showed the most significant antibacterial effect such as 25.0, 28.0- and 30.0-mm zones of inhibition against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. The inhibition zone of the synergistic antibacterial effect of honey and black seed extracts against foodborne pathogens was significantly larger than the extracts used separately. Furthermore, the lowest MIC was observed 3.12 mg/ml against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in the combination of Ziziphus honey with black seeds whereas, 6.25 mg/ml was observed against salmonella typhi. Conclusion: The present finding supports the traditional use of these different Pakistani honey variants in combination with black seeds for treating food borne pathogens to promote good health without any adverse side effects. The results suggested that present combination of natural extracts could be further explored clinically as a potent synergy-based therapeutic approach for treating various multidrug resistant food pathogens.

A sustainable green synthesis for photocatalytic and antibacterial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Cucumis maderaspatanus leaf extract

This study investigated the synthesis and photocatalytic activity of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) at room temperature (ZnO-RT), 60° C (ZnO-60), and ultra sonication (ZnO-US). The NPs were made from Cucumis maderaspatanus (Cm) extract. ZnO NP sizes and shapes were observed to be influenced by synthesis conditions, as demonstrated by characterization techniques includes scanning electron microscopic analysis (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infra Red analysis (FTIR). The heated (60 °C) and ultra sonication (US) conditions produced NPs with diameters in the range of 15–25 nm with spherical shapes, while the non-heated (RT) condition produced NPs with diameters in the range of 20–30 nm with a mixture of spherical and flower shapes confirmed by SEM. Additionally, the presence of the reducing agents in the herbal extract was verified by analysing the FTIR spectra of the extract obtained after the synthesis. By using Coomassie Brilliant Blue R-250 (CBB-R-250) (50 ppm) as a probe molecule and subjecting it to UVA irradiation (λ = 356 nm), photocatalytic activity was measured. The results showed that ZnO-US reached 100 % degradation after 120 min and 90 % of the pollutant was mineralized, while ZnO-60 and ZnO-RT showed results of 80 % and 48 %, respectively. According to this study, the biological synthesis of NPs using plant extracts can be considered as a cost-effective and efficient method of biological synthesis of NPs and it could be an appropriate replacement to typical chemical methods for the synthesis of NPs.

Current strategies for the management of psoriasis with potential pharmacological pathways using herbals and immuno-biologicals.

Psoriasis is an acute to chronic multifunctional inflammatory skin disorder mediated through T-cell activation, dendritic cell intervention, local vascular variations, atypical keratinocyte proliferation, and neutrophil activation, leading to a skin disorder with no permanent cure. This review aims to find a potent, secure, and dependable medication, with a more scientific examination of herbal resources and recent targeted immunobiological therapies. Reports evaluating the effectiveness of biologics & herbal remedies for the topical therapy of psoriasis against control therapies were taken into consideration (placebo or active therapy). The work examined cellular circuits involved in inflammation with its immunogenetic mechanism behind various options available for treating psoriasis in addition to the role of agents inducing psoriasis. The extent of psoriasis can range from small, localized spots to total body coverage, and it can happen at any stage of life. Several theories exist for clarification however, the exact cause of psoriasis is not entirely understood. Researchers have discovered genetic loci linkages, environmental changes, drug induction, lifestyle conditions, some infections, etc. resulting in this disorder. There are numerous known conventional medical treatments for psoriasis, ranging from topical and systemic medicines to phototherapy or combinations of both with recent immunobiological treatment. However, the majority of these treatments are ineffective and have a variety of side effects that limit their long-term usage, such as cutaneous atrophy, tissue toxicity, mutagenicity, and immunosuppression. Herbal extracts or isolated compounds can be considered as a substitute for conventional psoriasis treatment. Unfortunately, many investigations often provide a small amount of facts about the safety and effectiveness of topically applied herbal remedies for the treatment of psoriasis. Thus, further factual evidences and validations are needed to promote herbal options, which must be supported by rigorous animal studies or clinical trials using standardised materials and compositions.

Assessing the quality of healthy apple jam products fortified with natural herbal extracts

Assessing the quality of healthy apple jam products fortified with natural herbal extracts

Gynostemma pentaphyllum Extract Alleviates NASH in Mice: Exploration of Inflammation and Gut Microbiota.

NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) is a severe liver disease characterized by hepatic chronic inflammation that can be associated with the gut microbiota. In this study, we explored the therapeutic effect of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract (GPE), a Chinese herbal extract, on methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced NASH mice. Based on the peak area, the top ten compounds in GPE were hydroxylinolenic acid, rutin, hydroxylinoleic acid, vanillic acid, methyl vanillate, quercetin, pheophorbide A, protocatechuic acid, aurantiamide acetate, and iso-rhamnetin. We found that four weeks of GPE treatment alleviated hepatic confluent zone inflammation, hepatocyte lipid accumulation, and lipid peroxidation in the mouse model. According to the 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 region sequencing of the colonic contents, the gut microbiota structure of the mice was significantly changed after GPE supplementation. Especially, GPE enriched the abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria such as Akkerrmansia and decreased the abundance of opportunistic pathogens such as Klebsiella. Moreover, RNA sequencing revealed that the GPE group showed an anti-inflammatory liver characterized by the repression of the NF-kappa B signaling pathway compared with the MCD group. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) also showed that GPE downregulated the pathogen-induced cytokine storm pathway, which was associated with inflammation. A high dose of GPE (HGPE) significantly downregulated the expression levels of the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (Myd88), cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14), and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) genes, as verified by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Our results suggested that the therapeutic potential of GPE for NASH mice may be related to improvements in the intestinal microenvironment and a reduction in liver inflammation.

Phytochemicals as potential active principal components for formulation of alternative antifungal remedies against Trichophyton spp.: a systematic review

Abstract In this age of emergent resistance to antimicrobial agents, pathogenic fungi are not an exception. Diverse strategies have been implemented to curb rampant fungal infections including screening new drugs and stewardship programs. A plethora of recent studies have proved that phytochemicals are efficacious against pathogenic fungi and have potent antifungal activity. This review examines the use of phytochemicals as possible alternative antifungal agents against dermatophytes particularly Trichophyton spp. Literature search was done using three search engines namely Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct limited to the year 2019–2023 only. A total of 30 articles were included and 48 plant extracts were evaluated. The major phytochemicals that proved to be potent antifungals both in vitro and in vivo were terpenoids and phenolics. The antifungal potential of phyto-compounds was significantly elevated by incarnation with nanotechnology. Although much has been done in screening of herbal extracts as possible antifungal agents huge gaps still exist on full characterization of all active herbal extracts with antifungal potential especially against resistant strains, together with their mechanism of action, formulation of pharmaceutical dosage forms and clinical trials.

Gallic acid pretreatment mitigates parathyroid ischemia–reperfusion injury through signaling pathway modulation

Thyroid surgery often results in ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) to the parathyroid glands, yet the mechanisms underlying this and how to ameliorate IRI remain incompletely explored. Our study identifies a polyphenolic herbal extract—gallic acid (GA)—with antioxidative properties against IRI. Through flow cytometry and CCK8 assays, we investigate the protective effects of GA pretreatment on a parathyroid IRI model and decode its potential mechanisms via RNA-seq and bioinformatics analysis. Results reveal increased apoptosis, pronounced G1 phase arrest, and significantly reduced cell proliferation in the hypoxia/reoxygenation group compared to the hypoxia group, which GA pretreatment mitigates. RNA-seq and bioinformatics analysis indicate GA’s modulation of various signaling pathways, including IL-17, AMPK, MAPK, transient receptor potential channels, cAMP, and Rap1. In summary, GA pretreatment demonstrates potential in protecting parathyroid cells from IRI by influencing various genes and signaling pathways. These findings offer a promising therapeutic strategy for hypoparathyroidism treatment.

Herbal Extracts for Hair Growth and Skin Rejuvenation: A Potential Solution for Hair Fall and Enhancing Skin Glow

Hair loss can have significant psychological and sociological impacts on individuals, affecting how they perceive themselves and are perceived by others. Globally, there has been a rise in the proportion of both men and women experiencing hair loss or thinning hair. Dermatological disorders, including alopecia, are common causes of hair loss, leading to a constant search for natural products that may promote hair growth. Several factors contribute to hair loss, including stress, major illnesses, medication use, depression, autoimmune diseases, family history, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. In India, approximately 50% of the population is experiencing hair loss at an accelerated rate, partly due to the use of inferior hair products in the beauty industry. Various herbs have been identified for their potential to promote skin renewal and hair development. These include Ficus religiosa, Ficus bengalensis, coriander seeds, rock sugar, and Chlorophytum borivilianum. These herbs contain nutritional components that can help manage hormonal imbalances and stimulate hair growth. Herbal formulations offer a natural and potentially effective solution for hair loss management. They can be tested for quality control and evaluation to ensure their safety and efficacy. These formulations may serve as immunoboosters or highly nutritious compositions, providing additional health benefits beyond hair care. Importantly, such remedies are typically associated with minimal or no negative side effects, making them a preferred option for individuals seeking natural approaches to address hair loss and related concerns.

A Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Herbal Extract Combination Compared to 3% Minoxidil Solution for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Randomized, Double-blind, Controlled Trial

Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) affects both men and women. Standard treatments include topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, which can cause undesirable side effects. Therefore, a natural herbal extract is required for an alternative treatment. Objectives This study aims to assess both the efficacy and safety profiles of an herbal extract comprising a combination of dihydroquercetin glucoside, epigallocatechin gallate glucoside, zinc, and glycine, compared to the minoxidil solution for the treatment of AGA. Methods About 30 males and 30 females were recruited. The males and females were divided equally into two groups (n=30), randomly receiving either a minoxidil solution or herbal extraction twice a day for 24 weeks. Clinical efficacy, total hair count, and hair mass index (HMI) were evaluated. Results A total of 30 males and 30 females completed the study. The total hair counts (hairs/cm2) at baseline in the herbal group and minoxidil group were 334.8±108.8 and 368.3±178.4, respectively, and the total hair counts at 24 weeks in the herbal group and minoxidil group were 345.0±119.2 and 391.5±183.1 (p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001), respectively. The HMI in the herbal and minoxidil groups significantly increased by 25.83±17.18 and 33.70±15.17 (p=0.001, p&lt;0.001) at 24 weeks. However, there was no significant difference in total hair count and HMI between the two groups at 24 weeks (p= 0.250, p=0.065). No local adverse effects were observed in both groups. Conclusions The non-significant difference in efficacy and safety to minoxidil solution suggests that the herbal extraction could be an alternative treatment for AGA. Clinical Trial Registration Number TCTR20220927001.

Chronic fatigue syndrome post-COVID-19: triple-blind randomised clinical trial of Astragalus root extract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the effect of Astragalus root extract on nurses suffering from post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome.Materials and methodsThe study was designed as a triple-blind, randomised, controlled trial...

Edible Coatings: A Novel Approach to Extending the Shelf Life of Fruits and Vegetables

The rapid deterioration of fruits and vegetables during pre- and post-harvest conditions leads to significant post-harvest losses, affecting both quality and shelf life. Edible coatings have emerged as an effective solution to mitigate these issues, providing a protective layer that can be safely consumed as part of the food. Recently, there has been growing interest in using herbal extracts such as lemongrass, oregano, Aloe vera, Tulsi, mint, neem, cinnamon, and clove for edible coatings due to their beneficial properties. These herbal-based coatings have been shown to prevent water loss, control the ripening process and respiration rate, delay oxidative browning, and reduce microbial growth in various fruits and vegetables, including grapes, papaya, oranges, cucumbers, tomatoes, apples, and mangoes. Research indicates that these herbal edible coatings can extend the storage time of fresh produce to 15-35 days at low temperatures, compared to the 8-10 days for uncoated produce. The use of herbal extracts in edible coatings is a promising alternative to post-harvest chemical treatments, offering an innovative approach for commercial application. Edible coatings not only extend the post-harvest life of fresh produce but also improve food appearance and safety due to their environmentally friendly nature. They can be derived from animal or vegetable sources and may consist of proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, resins, or combinations thereof. Acting as barriers to moisture and gases, these coatings reduce food deterioration and enhance safety, often incorporating antimicrobial compounds. The advantages of edible coatings include reduced packaging waste, extended shelf life, and protection from environmental effects while maintaining the transfer of oxygen, carbon dioxide, moisture, aroma, and taste. Given the high market demand for nutritious fruits and vegetables and their perishable nature, edible coatings present an effective method to address post-harvest challenges, benefiting both consumers and the environment. This review discusses the components, benefits, and application techniques of edible coatings, focusing on their potential to enhance the shelf life and quality of fresh produce.

Modulation of UVB-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in skin keratinocytes (HaCaT) utilising unfermented rooibos and honeybush aqueous extracts

Exposure to Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation can trigger a diverse array of biological responses that have the potential to contribute to the onset of skin cancer. Natural compounds, such as tea polyphenols, have been shown to protect against UVB-induced damage by modulating oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and cell proliferation. The chemopreventive and anti-inflammatory properties of South African rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia spp.) herbal teas have been shown to mainly target the early stages of cancer development through mechanisms that involve intracellular interleukin-1α (IL-1α) inhibition. Thus, the aim was to investigate the preventive effects of unfermented rooibos and honeybush aqueous extracts against UVB-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in HaCaTs. Honeybush was found to reduce the accumulation of UVB-induced IL-1α while maintaining cell viability and without affecting apoptosis. Furthermore, only honeybush extract was able to decrease the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) caused by UVB exposure. Honeybush and rooibos extracts significantly decreased the secretion of UVB-induced interleukin-8 (IL-8). Except for rooibos extract at a concentration of 0.2 mg/mL, both extracts restored the expression of antioxidant genes to levels observed prior to UVB exposure. The anti-inflammatory effects of these herbal tea extracts are likely attributed to the antioxidant properties of their polyphenolic constituents, which modulate the oxidative stress-induced pathways governing inflammatory responses.

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A METHOD FOR THE QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF 20-HYDROXYECDISONE IN THE SERRATULA CORONATA HERBAL DRY EXTRACT

Introduction. The development and validation of analytical methods are one of the most important stages in the development of a new drug. As part of the implementation of the scientific research plan, the VILAR has developed a method for obtaining a dry extract Serratula coronata herb and its adaptogenic activity has been proven. The purpose of the study was to develop and validate a method for the quantitative determination of 20-hydroxyecdysone to control the quality of the Serratula coronata herbal dry extract. Materials and methods. The object of the study is a dry extract obtained by extracting dried herb with 70% ethyl alcohol, subsequent concentration, purification with chloroform, liquid-liquid extraction with n-butanol and drying of butanol extracts. Results. As a result of the research, optimal analysis conditions were selected and validation was carried out, which made it possible to characterize it positively in terms of specificity, linearity, accuracy, reproducibility, and intra-laboratory precision. Conclusions. The developed method is suitable for the quantitative determination of 20-hydroxyecdysone in the Serratula coronata herbal dry extract and can be used in drawing up a regulatory document for this substance.