Lemon Citrus Research Articles

Formulation and Evolution of Herbal Shampoo

Shampoos are one of the cosmetic products used in daily life. Synthetic preservatives and detergents have sometimes been the cause of adverse effects among consumers. A more radical approach in reducing the synthetic ingredients is by incorporating natural extract whose functionality is comparable with their synthetic ingredients.this herbal shampoo was formulated using natural ingredient like Fenugreek seeds), Acacia concinna (shikakai), Sapindus mukorossi (reetha), Ocimum sanctum (tulsi), Aloe vera (aloe), Hibiscus rosa sinensis (china rose), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Lawsonia inermis (henna),Citrus lemon (lemon), with proven efficacy of hair care preparation is prepared. The combination of several such ingredient of herbal origin has made it possible to secure highly effective dry powder shampoo. The formulation at laboratory scale was done and evaluated for number of parameters to ensure its safety and efficacy.The main obeject of this present study is to prepare and evaluate an herbal shampoo and determine physiochemical function that emphasizes on safety.which is use to remove grease, dirt, dandruff..

Nitrogen Doped Carbon Quantum Dots as Fluorescence "Turn-Off-On" Sensor for Detection of Fe3+ Ions and Ascorbic Acid in Moringa oleifera and Citrus Lemon.

In recent year, the uses of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have increased in many fields. Herein we report, synthesis of fluorescent nitrogen doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) by simple and ecofriendly hydrothermal method. The as-synthesized N-CQDs were characterized by various techniques and the quantum yield was also calculated. Then, application of N-CQDs were performed as a sensor for detection of ferric ions (Fe3+) based on static quenching mechanism (turn-off) which occurred due to formation of non-fluorescent complex between N-CQDs and Fe3+ ions. Interestingly, fluorescence intensity of quenched N-CQDs has been significantly recovered (turn-on) by addition of ascorbic acid (AA). The recovery mechanism is based on the redox reaction between Fe3+ ions and AA. Thus, N-CQDs has been used as fluorescence "turn-off-on" sensor for detection of Fe3+ ions and AA. Further this detection system is used for detecting Fe3+ ions in Moringa oleifera and AA in citrus lemon.

The Impact of Selected Eutectic Solvents on the Volatile Composition of Citrus lemon Essential Oil.

The development of new materials for the controlled release of molecules represents a topic of primary importance in medicine, as well as in food science. In recent years, eutectic solvents have been applied as releasing media due to their improved capacity to interact with specific molecules, offering a broad range of tunability. Nevertheless, their application in essential oil dissolution are rare and more data are needed to develop new generations of effective systems. Herein, three eutectic systems, respectively, composed of choline chloride and ethylene glycol (1:2 molar ratio), methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide and ethylene glycol (molar ratio 1:5), and choline chloride and glycerol (molar ratio 1:1.5) were tested as materials for the controlled release of an essential oil derived from Citrus lemon leaves. Through static headspace fractionation, followed by gas chromatographic analysis, the performances of the three systems were assessed. The specific composition of DESs was pivotal in determining the releasing polar molecules as aldehydes and alcohols. A sustainability ranking based on the EcoScale tool highlighted the superior characteristics of the choline chloride-glycerol DES.

Essential Oils, Chemical Compounds, and Their Effects on the Gut Microorganisms and Broiler Chicken Production: Review

The influence of essential oils (EOs) on gut microorganisms and broiler chicken production was evaluated through the systematic analysis of scientific reports. The present study was focused on the EO antimicrobial activity oriented toward broiler chicken production. There is a great biodiversity of plants, and various compounds with different biological activity have been isolated from them. The EO molecules extracted from plants have been employed recently in livestock feeding. Microbial resistance to antibiotics has led to their reduced use in animal production. To maintain competitive broiler chicken production with reduced antibiotic use, EOs have been explored. In broiler chickens, EOs are supplemented in the diet or drinking water to enhance weight gain and feed efficiency and reduce mortality. EOs are an alternative to antibiotics, and their research is dynamic in poultry production. The present review focused on the antimicrobial activity oriented to broiler chicken production. The search for information in databases used the terms “broiler chicken”, “essential oils” and combined them with the name of the plants. It was detected that the EO of Cinnamon bark or its compound cinnamaldehyde could reduce pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract and improve intestinal morphology. Essential oils from Cymbopogon spp. and Origanum vulgare had an effect mainly against Gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella spp., and others, and against some Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus spp., or yeasts, such as Candida albicans. Essential oils of Cymbopogon citratus acted against Salmonella. Citrus japonica affected Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium. Origanum EO improved the antioxidant status and gut health of chickens, while EO of Eucalyptus with carvacrol, thymol, and Citrus lemon improved the productive performance of broiler chickens; also, Citrus spp. reduced the number of oocysts of Eimeria and showed activity against Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is concluded that EOs are a sustainable alternative to antibiotics in the production of broiler chickens. Future research includes the standardization of EO from different plants and active molecules, as well as the interaction with other feed additives and their impact on the health and production of broiler chickens. In addition, safety for consumers and the environment must be considered.

Plant-Based Ingredients Utilized as Fat Replacers and Natural Antimicrobial Agents in Beef Burgers.

The present study aimed to find solutions based on the use of plant-based ingredients that would improve the nutritional quality of meat products as well as ensure sensory and microbiological quality. Two fat replacers, lemon albedo (Citrus lemon) and carob seed gum (Ceratonia siliqua), were investigated by chemical analysis and panel testing to evaluate their effect on the nutritional and sensory quality of beef burgers. The antimicrobial activity of two plant extracts, from nettle (Urtica dioica) leaves and medlar (Eriobotrya japonica) seeds, was studied, evaluating the intensity of inhibitory action and the minimum inhibitory concentration against Pseudomonas spp. and Listeria innocua strains by plate test. In addition, the antioxidant activity of both extracts was evaluated. Based on the results, lemon albedo and medlar seed extracts were validated in a food model (beef burger) by a storage test and a challenge test. The storage test results highlight that medlar seed extract prevents the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARSs) and ensures microbiological quality, inhibiting Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas spp. Anti-Listeria efficacy was confirmed in situ by challenge test results. In conclusion, although fat replacers ensure nutritional and sensory quality, they do not satisfy microbiological quality. This study clearly demonstrates that the safety of low-fat burgers can only be achieved through the combination of appropriate fat replacers with well-selected natural antimicrobial extracts.

Low soil pH enhances fruit acidity by inhibiting citric acid degradation in lemon (Citrus lemon L.)

Fruit acidity significantly influences fruit flavor, but the specific impact of soil pH on fruit acidity remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of various soil pH levels on fruit acidity and citric acid (CA) metabolism in lemon (Citrus limon L.). High soil pH (pH 8) decreased total soluble solids concentrations in lemon fruits, while low soil pH (pH 4) increased titratable acid and CA concentrations. Although low soil pH reduced the synthesis of CA due to the decreased citrate synthase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase activities, the elevated fruit acidity under low soil pH conditions is not directly related to CA synthesis. Instead, low soil pH was found to suppress the activity of cytosolic aconitase (Cyt-ACO), an iron-dependent enzyme, indicating a potential role for CA degradation inhibition in low soil pH-induced CA accumulation. Furthermore, low soil pH significantly reduced cytosolic iron (Cyt-Fe) concentration, which was positively correlated with Cyt-ACO activity. In conclusion, low soil pH contributes to increasing fruit acidity in lemon, partially by inhibiting CA degradation due to the reduced Cyt-Fe concentrations. Our work unravels the influence of soil pH on CA accumulation and provides important clues for modulating CA levels through microelement fertilization in citrus.

Toxicity and enzymatic mechanism of Citrus spp. essential oils and major constituents on Haemaphysalis longicornis (Acari: Ixodidae) and non-target Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Plant essential oils (EOs)-based acaricides have been recognized as environmentally-friendly alternatives to synthetic acaricides because of their low toxicity against non-target species. Despite this, there are knowledge gaps regarding the toxicity mechanisms of plant EOs against non-target species. Here, the toxicology and enzymatic mechanism of Citrus reticulata and Citrus lemon EOs were evaluated against the vector pest, Haemaphysalis longicornis, and non-target ladybird beetle, Harmonia axyridis. Both EOs were mainly composed of d-Limonene, followed by β-Myrcene and γ-Terpinene in C. reticulata, and (−)-β-Pinene and γ-Terpinene in C. lemon. Citrus reticulata and C. lemon EOs were toxic to Hae. longicornis, with 50 % lethal concentration (LC50) values estimated at 0.43 and 0.98 μL/mL via nymphal immersion test, and 42.52 and 46.38 μL/mL via spray application, respectively. Among the constituents tested, β-Myrcene was the most effective, with LC50 values of 0.17 and 47.87 μL/mL via immersion and spray treatment, respectively. A significant mortality of non-target Har. axyridis was found when treated by the EOs at concentrations two times greater than LC50 estimated against H. longicornis. The biochemical assay revealed that the EOs induced changes in the antioxidant enzyme activity of superoxide dismutases, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in Hae. longicornis and Har. axyridis. The results demonstrated the acaricidal potential of citrus EOs and their major constituents for tick control, revealed the risk of the EOs to non-target species, and provided relevant insights into the mechanisms underlying their toxicity.

The structural, magnetic and electrical properties of chromium doped calcium ferrite nanoparticles

Calcium ferrite nanoparticles doped with Chromium (10-50 mol %) are synthesized using the solution combustion method, employing citrus Lemon extract as a reducing agent, followed by a calcination process at 500oC. Various characterization techniques are employed on the calcined samples. The Bragg reflections resulting from Chromium doping confirm the formation of a singular orthorhombic calcium ferrite phase. Crystallite sizes determined using both Scherrer’s and W-H plot methods found to be decreases with increase in dopant concentration. The surface morphology showcases agglomerated nanoparticles with irregular shapes and sizes, accompanied by pores and voids. The energy band gap found to be increases with increase in dopant concentration from 2.82 to 2.93 eV. The hysteresis loop analysis provides magnetic parameters including saturation magnetization (Ms), remanence (Mr), and coercivity (Hc). As the dopant concentration increases, Ms and Hc found to be maximum at 30 mol% cr3+ concentration in CaFe2O4 NPs. Linear increase in frequency-dependent conductivity at lower frequencies was observed. The presence of semicircles at low frequencies signifies compliance with the Cole-Cole formula for impedance behavior. Additionally, a detailed discussion on dielectric properties is presented. Notably, the dielectric constant decreases from 4.2 to 2.74 with an increase in dopant concentration. These distinctive attributes position the samples as suitable candidates for memory devices as well as high-frequency device applications.

Sonochemical Facile Synthesis of Bismuth Oxide Nanoparticles Using Citrus Lemon Extract and Its Catalytic Activity on Azo Dye Degradation

The synthesis of bismuth oxide nanoparticles through sono-cavitation using citrus lemon extract as a simple, eco-friendly and cost-efficient method was evaluated. The aqueous extract of citrus lemon acted as a bio-reducing and capping/stabilizing agent in the single-step biosynthesis of bismuth oxide nanoparticles. Different instrumental techniques have been used to characterize the biosynthesized bismuth oxide nanoparticles, including UV–vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). UV–vis spectroscopy revealed the formation of stable bismuth oxide nanoparticles at λmax of 400 nm with a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band. TEM revealed that the biosynthesized bismuth oxide nanoparticles were rod shaped with a particle size of 26 nm. A potential mechanism for the formation of bismuth oxide nanoparticles with the influence of sono-cavitation has been suggested based on the observed findings. These catalytic capabilities of the bio-synthesized bismuth oxide nanoparticles were then evaluated by degradation of toxic azo dyes under different laboratory conditions. The azo dye Congo red (CR) was effectively degraded to 86% within 30 min under optimum experimental conditions using 0.12 g/mL catalyst. Thus, the phytochemical citrus lemon offers a cheap and eco-friendly solution for the synthesis of catalytic nanoparticles to degrade highly toxic organic compounds such as azo dyes.Graphical

Synthesis of ZnO/Poly(Styrene‐co‐Methacrylic Acid) Hybrid Polymer Particles for Enhanced UV‐Visible Photodegradation of Methylene Blue

AbstractIn this study, a series of submicron‐sized functional polymer particles poly(Sty‐co‐MAA) with variable methacrylic acid (MAA) content were prepared by soap‐free emulsion polymerization of styrene (Sty), methacrylic acid (MAA), and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA). The number‐average diameters of polymer particles (Dn) were in the range of 0.11 to 0.19 μm. A decrease in particle size was observed with increasing the molar ratio of MAA comonomer in the recipe. ZnO/poly(Sty‐co‐MAA) hybrid polymer particles were prepared by seeded emulsion copolymerization in presence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as seed particles synthesized using Citrus lemon aqueous leaf extract. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microsphere (TEM), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transformed infra‐red (FT‐IR) analysis were performed to characterize polymer particles. The crystalline size of ZnO NPs and ZnO/poly(Sty‐co‐MAA) hybrid polymer particles calculated from XRD analysis were 20.75 and 29.85 nm, respectively. These hybrid polymer particles were applied as photocatalyst in the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV irradiation, which showed high catalytic activity with degradation efficiency of 85.70 % at room temperature compared to bare ZnO NPs.

Funneliformis mosseae potentiates defense mechanisms of citrus rootstocks against citrus nematode, Tylenchulus semipenetrans.

Using integrated pest management without relying on chemical pesticides is one of the most attractive approaches to controlling plant pathogens. Among them, using resistant cultivars or rootstocks against diseases in combination with beneficial microorganisms has attracted special attention. The citrus nematode is one of the major constraints of citrus cultivation worldwide. We showed that the mycorrhizal arbuscular fungus, Funneliformis mosseae, increased growth parameters including shoot and root length and biomass of two main rootstocks of citrus, sour orange and Volkamer lemon, in noninfected and infected plants with citrus nematode. It decreased the infection rate by citrus nematode in both rootstocks compared with nonmycorrhizal plants. The rate of decrease in nematode infection was highest when plants were pre-inoculated with F. mosseae and was lowest when nematode was inoculated before F. mosseae. However, when nematode was inoculated before the fungus, the fungus was still able to mitigate the negative effect of infection by nematode compared with plants inoculated with nematode only. This suggests that the timing of inoculation plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of F. mosseae in reducing nematode infection. Moreover, monitoring of the expression of two genes, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and β-1,3-glucanase, which are involved in systemic-acquired resistance (SAR) showed that although they were significantly upregulated in mycorrhizal plants compared with nonmycorrhizal plants, they showed the highest expression when plants were pretreated with fungus before nematode inoculation, thus, indicating that plants were primed. In summary, F. mosseae primes the defense-related genes involved in SAR, increasing plant defensive capacity and boosting growth parameters in citrus rootstock. This has important implications for the agricultural industry.

Optimization of Pectin Extraction Process from Albedo of Citrus Lemon (Citrus limon) Using Ultrasonic Method

Abstract Pectin is an industrial raw material that can form gels, thickeners, and emulsifiers widely applied in the food and non-food industries. Extracting pectin with citric acid solvent using ultrasonic waves is considered more effective and efficient. This study aimed to obtain an optimization model for the pectin production process to produce maximum pectin yield and obtain the optimized pectin characteristics. This study used the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) as the optimization method with the Central Composite Design (CCD) experimental design with Design Expert 13 software to determine the treatment combination based on time factors and solvent concentration. The treatment combination obtained was 11. The results showed that the maximum pectin yield value was 34.63% at a 7-minute extraction time using the citric acid solvent concentration of 20% and a validation value accuracy of 99.08%. The optimized pectin characteristics were a water content of 7.66%, ash content of 0.33%, equivalent weight of 183.28 mg, methoxyl content of 7.52%, galacturonic acid content of 67.13%, and degree of esterification of 63.56%. The pectin produced followed the pectin quality standards according to the International Pectin Producers Association (IPPA), except for the equivalent weight. Keywords: extraction, lemon albedo, pectin, ultrasonic Abstrak Pektin merupakan bahan baku industri yang memiliki kemampuan dalam pembentukan gel, zat pengental, dan sebagai zat pengemulsi yang banyak diaplikasikan pada industri pangan dan non-pangan. Proses ekstraksi pektin dengan pelarut asam sitrat menggunakan bantuan gelombang ultrasonik dianggap lebih efektif dan efisien. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mendapatkan model optimasi proses produksi pektin hingga menghasilkan rendemen pektin yang maksimum dan mendapatkan karakteristik pektin hasil optimasi. Metode optimasi dalam penelitian ini menggunakan Response Surface Methodology (RSM) dengan dengan rancangan eksperimen Central Composite Design (CCD) menggunakan software Design Expert 13 untuk menentukan kombinasi perlakuan berdasarkan faktor waktu dan konsentrasi pelarut. Kombinasi perlakuan yang diperoleh adalah 11. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai rendemen pektin maksimum adalah 34,63% pada waktu ekstraksi 7 menit dengan konsentrasi pelarut asam sitrat 20% dengan keakuratan nilai validasi adalah 99,08%. Karakteristik pektin hasil optimasi diperoleh nilai kadar air 7,66%, kadar abu 0,33%, berat ekuivalen 183,28 mg, kadar metoksil 7,52%, kadar asam galakturonat 67,13%, dan derajat esterifikasi 63,56%. Pektin yang dihasilkan sudah sesuai dengan standar mutu pektin menurut International Pectin Producers Association (IPPA) kecuali pada berat ekuivalen. Kata kunci: albedo lemon, ekstraksi, pektin, ultrasonik

Enhancing Skincare Formulas with Olive Oil-Infused Citrus Peel Extracts: A Comprehensive Study

The increasing global demand for natural and organic ingredients in cosmetics has spurred a surge in research exploring innovative formulations. This study delves into the utilization of citrus fruit peels and seeds macerated in olive oil as a foundation for novel ointments. Through the analysis of extracts from a variety of citrus sources, including orange, lemon, tangerine, grapefruit, and citron peels, as well as lemon and tangerine seeds, their physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity were meticulously examined using thin-layer chromatography (TLC). A groundbreaking aspect of this research is the revelation of the in vitro antioxidant potential of DMSO extracts obtained from these citrus-infused olive oils. Chemical assays unequivocally confirmed the presence of phenols and flavonoids, renowned for their robust antioxidant properties, across all extracts. These significant findings not only reinforce the well-documented benefits of citrus fruits in combating premature aging and diseases but also underscore the untapped potential of citrus by-products as valuable natural cosmetic ingredients. This preliminary investigation serves as a beacon illuminating the promising prospects of integrating citrus fruit remnants into cosmetic formulations. The imperative for further exploration in this realm is evident, aiming to refine formulations and advocate for the sustainable exploitation of citrus resources within the cosmetics sector. By embarking on deeper research endeavors, an inclusive comprehension of leveraging the inherent potency of citrus fruits for the creation of cutting-edge and efficacious natural cosmetic products can be achieved.

Innovation in the Utilization of Lemon for Phytonutrient Products as an Effort to Increase Income Generation for the Bocek Village Community

Bocek Village is one of the villages in Karangploso District, Malang Regency, East Java Province, which has lemon production reaching 30 tons per month but is not supported by good sales management. Lemon (Citrus lemon) is one of the species of the genus citrus, and it has many benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antiparasitic activities. This community service aims to create innovative lemon-based products for phytonutrients to increase income generation for Bocek village, Karangploso district, Malang regency. The method used is ABCD (Asset Based Community Development). The activity was carried out on August 19 2023, in Bocek village, Karangploso district, Malang regency, with the participation of 30 housewives. The results of the activity were successful socialization and demonstrations of lemon slice and lemon squash products that were successfully made, and there were levels of public understanding with good (60%), sufficient (23%), and poor (17%) percentages. So, it can be concluded that training activities on using lemons for phytonutrient products can increase public knowledge and generate income in the future.

Applying Giloy Stems Dye to Silk and Lyocell Fabrics to Improve Their Antimicrobial and Fastness Properties Using Bio-Mordant

The investigation of novel strategies to combat harmful bacteria is warranted given the serious threat that antimicrobial resistance poses to world health. Out of all of these, treating textile materials with antimicrobial compounds has attracted a lot of attention due to its potential to stop the spread of infectious diseases. The goal of this study was to evaluate how silk and lyocell materials' inherent antibacterial qualities might be improved by giloy dyeing and lemon mordanting. The goal of mordanting was to improve dye adhesion by using only natural ingredients such as citrus lemon extract. Using dye from Azadirachta indica, which was made by aqueous boiling, Lyocell and Silk materials were dyed under various circumstances. Following Giloy dyeing and Lemon mordanting, the antibacterial efficiency significantly improved, notably against common infections like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, according to the results. Furthermore, the study assessed washing and perspiration fastness capabilities, which yielded positive results and confirmed the method's feasibility. This method has the potential to considerably improve infection control measures in textiles, particularly in fields focused on public health and cleanliness. Given the serious issue of antimicrobial resistance, adopting new textile treatments like this can help to build effective and sustainable solutions. Future studies can investigate further uses and adjustments, assuring its adaptability and wider adoption across many environments.

In Vitro Propagation of Lemon Citrus Lemon Local

In Vitro Propagation of Lemon Citrus Lemon Local

Exosomes isolated from citrus lemon: a promising candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of exosome-like nanovesicles from citrus lemon (EXO-CLs) in combating oxidative stress associated with Alzheimer's disease.Materials & methods: EXO-CLs were isolated through differential ultracentrifugation, characterized for particle size and evaluated for antioxidant activity.Results: EXO-CLs exhibited a mean size of 93.77±12.31nm, demonstrated permeability across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and displayed antioxidant activity comparable to ascorbic acid. Additionally, they were found to be non-toxic, with over 80% cell viability observed in SH-SY5Y cells.Conclusion: The study proposes that EXO-CLs could serve as an effective treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. This suggests a promising approach for targeted interventions in brain-related disorders, owing to the antioxidant properties and BBBpermeability exhibited by EXO-CLs.

In Vitro Virucidal Activity of Different Essential Oils against Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Used as Surrogate of Human Hepatitis C Virus.

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major hepatotropic virus that affects humans with increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma. The bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) causes abortion, calf mortality and poor reproductive performance in cattle. Due the difficulties of in vitro cultivation for HCV, BVDV has been used as surrogate for in vitro assessment of the efficacy of antivirals. Essential oils (EOs) display antiviral and virucidal activity on several viral pathogens. In this study, the virucidal activity of five EOs, Salvia officinalis L. EO (SEO), Melissa officinalis L. EO (MEO), Citrus lemon EO (LEO), Rosmarinus officinalis L. EO (REO) and Thymus vulgaris L. EO (TEO) against BVDV was evaluated in vitro at different concentrations for several time contacts. MEO and LEO were able to considerably inactivate BVDV with a time- and dose-dependent fashion. MEO and LEO at the highest concentrations decreased viral titer by 2.00 and 2.25 log10 TCID50/50 μL at 8 h contact time, respectively. SEO, REO and TEO displayed mild virucidal activity at the highest concentrations for 8 h contact times. In this study, the virucidal efficacies of MEO and LEO against BVDV were observed regardless of compound concentration and contact time. Further studies are needed to confirm the potential use of MEO and LEO as surface disinfectants.

Aromatherapy vs. Acupressure for Pregnancy Nausea Efficacy

Nausea and vomiting afflict many pregnant women, particularly in the first trimester, prompting interest in non-pharmacological remedies like citrus lemon aromatherapy and PC6 acupressure massage. Yet, comparative studies on their effectiveness remain scarce. This research aimed to assess the efficacy of these interventions in reducing nausea and vomiting among first-trimester pregnant women with emesis gravidarum. Using a quasi-experimental design, two groups of participants received either citrus lemon aromatherapy or PC6 acupressure massage. The PUQE-24 scale measured symptoms before and after the interventions. Results indicated significant reductions in symptoms for both groups (p < 0.05), with no significant difference in effectiveness between the interventions (p = 0.465). These findings underscore the potential of non-pharmacological therapies to alleviate pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting, suggesting their integration into prenatal care practices for improved maternal well-being. Highlight: Non-drug Relief: Citrus lemon aromatherapy and PC6 acupressure massage. First-Trimester Aid: Efficacy for pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting. Equal Effectiveness: Aromatherapy versus acupressure for symptom reduction. Keyword: Nausea, vomiting, pregnancy, aromatherapy, acupressure

Antioxidant activities of lemon and mandarin peel extracts as natural preservatives in ghee (butter oil) stored at different storage temperatures

Using natural preservatives in ghee and fat-rich products has great economic importance as it can minimize adverse effects on human health and improve the marketing prospects of products. The present study aimed to use lemon (Citrus lemon L.) and mandarin (Citrus reticulata L.) peel extracts as natural preservatives instead of synthetic antioxidants of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) to retard the oxidation of ghee during accelerated storage at various temperatures. Antioxidant activities of lemon peel extracts (LPE), mandarin peel extracts (MPE) and BHA in ghee samples stored at different storage temperatures (T1: 5±2°C, T2: 25±2°C, T3: 60±2°C) were evaluated during the storage period (0, 20 and 40 days). The peroxide value (PV), free fatty acids (FFA), and antioxidant activity of the ghee samples were analyzed and compared with control sample (without additives). The PV and FFA content were significantly higher in the control sample than in the ghee samples treated with BHA, LPE, and MPE at all storage temperatures and during the storage period. All treatments led to a reduction in the PV and FFA content, but LPE had the most significant effect, followed by BHA and MPE, respectively. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by the 3-ethyl benzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) assay; LPE had the highest antioxidant activity, followed by MPE. Compared to the control sample: BHA, LPE and MPE led to a higher reduction in the PV and FFA content of ghee samples at all storage temperatures and periods owing to their antioxidant activities. Results of incorporated samples showed that using LPE (0.1%) prevented the development of PV and FFA content of ghee samples less than using BHA (0.2%). The present study suggests that LPE (0.1%) could be used as a good natural antioxidant preservative to reduce oxidative deterioration of ghee and fat-rich products.