Pistacia Lentiscus Research Articles

Masterpenoids A-D, Four Unprecedented Nortriterpenoids from the Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) and Their Anti-inflammatory Activity.

Four unprecedented nortriterpenoids, masterpenoids A-D, were isolated and fully elucidated from the resin of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus). Masterpenoids A-C are the first norterpenoids featuring an unprecedented 6/6/6/10 ring system, while masterpenoid D possesses a novel 6/6/6/7/5 ring system. The anti-inflammatory potential of the compounds was meticulously assessed through the establishment of an in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Among them, Masterpenoids A and D showed potent inhibition of NO production, with IC50 values of 10.6 ± 0.8 and 8.2 ± 0.9 μM, respectively, compared to positive control dexamethasone (IC50 = 23.2 ± 1.2 μM).

Antioxidant activity and content of total phenols and flavonoids of aqueous extracts from leaves of Pistacia lentiscus L.

The Mounts of Tessala (western of Algeria) is a remarkable site of plants diversity, characterized by the presence of numerous aromatic and medicinal species used by the local population as therapeutic agents, the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus L.) is among the plants inhabiting this mountain; it is a perennial shrub belonging to the family Anacardiaceae. The dosage of some polyphenols (total phenols, flavonoids) varied respectively between 21.20 - 98.23 mg gallic acid equivalents/g and 39.767 - 91.288 mg catechin equivalents/g. ANOVA revealed a significant variation in the mean concentrations according to the used extract. Evaluation of the antioxidant power of aqueous extracts has revealed a remarkable biological effect. The high inhibition percentages (100%) were found in the decocted extract at 10 mg/mL, followed by the macerated extract at 10 mg/mL, and finally the infused extract with 82.99% at 20 mg/mL. The DPPH free radical scavenging test revealed that the antioxidant activity of aqueous extracts varied significantly according to extract type and its concentration. The results obtained not only confirm the richness of active principles in the studied plant but also its therapeutic effectiveness.

Optimizing the extraction of essential oil yield from Pistacia lentiscus oleo-gum resin by superheated steam extraction using response surface methodology

Pistacia lentiscus L. is an aromatic plant containing a significant percentage of essential oil (EO) used in fragrance, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food industry. The purpose of this work is focused on the optimization of Pistacia lentiscus L. oleo gum resin EO yield extracted by superheated steam extraction (SHSE) by response surface methodology, including extraction parameters of particle size (0. 5 − 1 mm), temperature (140–180 °C) and time (90–150 min). The optimum conditions for Pistacia lentiscus L. EO extracted by SHSE were found to be (particle size: 0.75 mm, time: 120 min and temperature: 160 ℃) which produced the highest EO yield of 5.7%. A regression model was developed, demonstrating a robust quadratic correlation with an R2 value of 0.9991, making it suitable for predictions. Furthermore, the yield of Pistacia lentiscus L. EO extracted by SHSE was compared with the conventional steam and hydro distillation techniques. The study revealed that SHSE yielded higher quantities of EO than other extraction methods. GC-MS analyzed the chemical composition of Pistacia lentiscus L. EO. The predominant compound of Pistacia lentiscus L. EO was determined to be α-pinene, while the other identified compounds include trans-verbenol, verbenol, cis-verbenone, camphene, β-myrcene, d-limonene, cymene, α-myrtenol, α-campholenal, α-copaene, and α-thujene, whose content differed according to different extraction techniques. Overall, superheated steam extraction is an efficient technique for extracting Pistacia lentiscus L. essential oil that enhances EO yield, requiring less time for extraction.

Phytochemical composition analysis, antioxidant, antimitotic, and anti-inflammatory effects of leaf and stem extracts of Pistacia lentiscus L

ABSTRACT This study explored the phytochemical composition, antioxidant properties, anti-germinative effects, and anti-inflammatory actions of methanolic leaf extracts (MLE) and methanolic stem extracts (MSE) derived from Pistacia lentiscus L. species native to the eastern region of Morocco. Using Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC),16 and 17 components were discovered inMLE and MSE, respectively, with Epigallocatechin being the most prevalent in both extracts. Polyphenols and flavonoids were found to be more abundant in MLE. Furthermore, DPPH assays revealed that it had a higher free radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 37.5 mg/L) compared to ascorbic acid while ferric-reducing power tests showed that MSE had a greater potency (IC50 = 86.14 mg/L) than MLE. Both MLE and MSE inhibited sorghum seed germination in a dose-dependent manner, with MSE being slightly more effective. Mitotic index determination revealed that both extracts had concentration-dependent antimitotic effects, with MSE showing similarity to colchicine, indicating its potential as an antimitotic agent. In vitro, anti-inflammatory assays showed that it had similar properties to indomethacin in protein denaturation and membrane stabilization, while MLE displayed distinct characteristics. Furthermore, in a carrageenan-induced rat model, both extracts demonstrated anti-inflammatory potential, with MSE showing a trend of slightly better efficacy. These results highlight the importance of further investigation into MSE’s potential as an anti-inflammatory and antimitotic agent.

Evaluation of the in vitro toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic extract of the leaves of Pistacia lentiscus L. harvested from northwestern Algeria.

Medicinal and aromatic plants have been used for thousands of years for their therapeutic properties, to treat various ailments and maintain health. This study was carried out to test the in vitro toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic extract of the leaves of Pistacia lentiscus L., native to the north-western region of Algeria. Toxicity was studied in vitro by the hemolysis test and anti-hemolytic activity on human red blood cells, while anti-inflammatory activity was assessed in vitro by the protein denaturation method. The study of toxicity by hemolysis of red blood cells showed a high rate of hemolysis at a dose of 200 mg/mL, with a hemolytic percentage of around 88.64%, while a high rate of anti-hemolysis was observed at a dose of 25 mg/mL, with an inhibition percentage of around 83.17%. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity revealed a high percentage of inhibition of ovalbumin denaturation, reaching 63.53% at the 2000 ug/mL dose, while the lowest percentage was obtained at the 3500 ug\mL concentration with 10.16%. This extract has a toxic substance but does not exceed the toxicity threshold which achieves significant anti-inflammatory activity with depandant doses.

The Antiviral Potential of a Natural Compound for COVID-19: A Review of the Current Findings

Objective Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a novel viral disease originating from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a life-threatening disease with dramatic morbidity and mortality globally. In this review, we aim to discuss the current evidence showing that the Imam Kazem drug, a natural compound that comprises Foeniculum vulgare, Terminalia chebula, Pistacia lentiscus, and red sugar, may be a therapeutic candidate in the fight against COVID-19 infection. Methods This literature review was performed by searching related words, including “ Imam Kazem drug,” “ Foeniculum vulgare,” “ Terminalia chebula,” “ Pistacia lentiscus,” “ Red sugar,” “Natural compounds,” “Traditional medicine,” “Coronaviruses,” “Antiviral,” “COVID-19,” “SARS-CoV-2,” in different databases like Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scientific Information Databases until 2023. Results The current documents underscore that the Imam Kazem drug may be safe and effective against COVID-19. This natural compound, thanks to its constituents, may affect the pathogenic occurrence related to the disease, such as attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation-associated occurrences by different mechanisms, like scavenging free radicals, enhancing the function of antioxidant enzymes, and attenuating cytokine storm. Moreover, the Imam Kazem drug can exert its antiviral ability mainly by suppressing viral replication and blocking glycosaminoglycan binding sites. However, more preclinical and clinical evidence is required to support these results. Conclusion Imam Kazem drug may have a therapeutic capacity for patients with COVID-19 infection.

Analysis of landscape structure changes in Marmara Lake and its surrounding area using remote sensing data

This study investigates temporal changes in the landscape structure of Lake Marmara (Gölmarmara, Manisa, Türkiye), a designated bird sanctuary and registered wetland, over 10 years period using remote sensing techniques. The analysis employed the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) on satellite imagery from 2015 and 2024, processed through the ArcGIS/ArcMap software, to assess landscape metrics within the study area. The Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) was also utilized to evaluate the interactions between the water body, wetlands, and their surroundings. The findings were further supported by surface temperature analysis (STA) and comparative data. NDVI analysis revealed a 39.38% reduction in the Lake Marmara water body, an 11.09% decrease in forested areas, and an 8.28% decline in tree/shrub areas over 10 years. The dominant tree species in the forest vegetation was Pinus brutia, while other prevalent species included Quercus coccifera, Cistus creticus, Pistacia terebinthus, Pistacia lentiscus, Arbutus andrachne, Arbutus unedo, Olea europaea, Erica arborea, Phillyrea latifolia, and Sarcopoterium spinosum. Conversely, residential areas expanded by 21.21%, and agricultural areas increased by 4.11%. NDWI analysis indicated a 14.46% reduction in moderately dry areas and a 41.92% increase in dry areas. Furthermore, surface temperature data showed an increase over the 10 years. This study is expected to contribute significantly to the field by providing insights into sustainable land use and planning strategies. It offers a comprehensive perspective on wetland management and conservation of biological diversity by elucidating the temporal and spatial relationships between wetlands and their environment, considering both ecological and anthropogenic factors.

Evaluation of the Impact of Pistacia atlantica Desf. Oleo-gum Resin on Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-induced Arthritis in a Wistar Rat Model

Background: Pistacia atlantica Desf., also known as Atlantic pistachio or Mt. Atlas mastic tree, has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis. Additionally, the tree's resin possesses antioxidant properties that can help protect against oxidative stress. The anti-arthritic efficacy of Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum resin extract (PAG) remains unvalidated, as its potential therapeutic benefits have not been substantiated. In the current investigation, we have substantiated the inhibitory properties of the PAG in mitigating the development of rheumatoid arthritis induced by Complete Freund's Adjuvant in rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats weighing 160±10 g were subjected to immunization through intradermal injection of 0.1 mL of Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) into the left hind metatarsal footpad. Following the induction of adjuvant arthritis, oral administration of PAG was initiated at doses of 10, 400, and 800 mg/kg once a day. Prednisolone (10 mg/kg, daily) was employed as a positive control in this study. Various parameters, including paw swelling, arthritic index, body weight loss, spleen index, thymus index, serum cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and histological alterations, as well as nitrite glutathione and catalase level, were measured. Furthermore, the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 were evaluated. Results: PAG exhibited noteworthy efficacy in attenuating paw swelling and reducing the arthritic index. Moreover, it resulted in enhanced body weight loss and a consequential reduction in the thymus index. PAG (400mg/kg) significantly decreased the level of serum nitrite in the intervention group, as well as the levels of serum glutathione. On the other hand, catalase activity increased, the activity of MMP-9 decreased, and the level of MMP-2 increased compared to the intervention group. The histopathological results revealed that PAG (at doses of 400 mg/kg) had the best therapeutic effects. Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study confirms the anti-arthritic activity of PAG in rats. The extract of PAG was found to prevent rheumatoid arthritis induced by Complete Freund's Adjuvant, as evidenced by the significant suppression of paw swelling and arthritic index.

Growing at the arid edge: Anatomical variations in leaves are more extensive than in stems of five Mediterranean species across contrasting moisture regimes.

Increasing aridity in the Mediterranean region affects ecosystems and plant life. Various anatomical changes in plants help them cope with dry conditions. This study focused on anatomical differences in leaves and xylem of five co-occurring Mediterranean plant species namely Quercus calliprinos, Pistacia palaestina, Pistacia lentiscus, Rhamnus lycioides, and Phillyrea latifolia in wet and dry sites. Stomatal density, stomatal length, leaf mass area, lamina composition, percentage of intercellular air spaces, and mesophyll cell area in leaves of plants in wet and dry sites were analyzed. Xylem anatomy was assessed through vessel length and area in branches. In the dry site, three species had increased stomatal density and decreased stomatal length. Four species had increased palisade mesophyll and reduced air space volume. In contrast, phenotypic changes in the xylem were less pronounced; vessel length was unaffected by site conditions, but vessel diameter decreased in two species. Intercellular air spaces proved to be the most dynamic anatomical feature. Quercus calliprinos had the most extensive anatomical changes; Rhamnus lycioides had only minor changes. All these changes were observed in comparison to the species in the wet site. This study elucidated variations in anatomical responses in leaves among co-occurring Mediterranean plant species and identified the most dynamic traits. Understanding these adaptations provides valuable insights into the ability of plants to thrive under changing climate conditions.

Seven New Noroleanane Triterpenoids from Mastic and Their NO Inhibitory and Cytotoxic Activities.

Mastic is a natural resin produced by Pistacia lentiscus L. (Anacardiaceae) with high medicinal value and have been traditionally used as Uighur imported medicine for centuries. In this study, 16 triterpenoids including seven new noroleanane triterpenoids (1-7), along with nine known oleanane triterpenoids (8-16), were isolated from the mastic. Their chemical structures were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses (including IR, UV, ESI-HR-MS and NMR spectroscopy) and singlecrystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 4-7, 11, 14 and 16 showed strong inhibitory NO production in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells with IC50 values 7.44-9.76 μM, respectively (positive control dexamethasone, 9.93±1.17 μM). Furthermore, compounds 3 and 12 significantly inhibited the growth of SW480 cells, compound 3 showed the most pronounced inhibitory effect with an IC50 of 2.30±0.38 μM.

Current State of Wild Pistacia lentiscus in Azerbaijan

Information is provided on Pistacia lentiscus L. belonging to natural forest vegetation, Anacardiaceae family, Pistacia genus. Information is given on the modern status and importance of Pistacia lentiscus L., which is one of the wild tree species in the flora of Azerbaijan. Due to its resin content, the Pistacia lentiscus is a valuable plant that is resistant to pests and used in various fields. The Pistacia lentiscus is a long-lived tree that coexists with other forest plants.

Revealing the Potential of Chios Mastic Gum and Its Constituents for Cosmetic Applications through Chemical Profiling and Biological Evaluation

Chios mastic gum (CMG), the resin of Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia, is a product with great ethnopharmacological and economic significance. This study attempts to investigate, for the first time, the activity of CMG, its fractions and isolated compounds against specific enzymes, which play pivotal roles in the degradation of proteins contained in skin connective tissue. Initially, crude CMG was subjected to extraction, fractionation and isolation through different chromatographic techniques to obtain the acidic and neutral fraction of terpenes. Additionally, the characteristic and major active triterpene acids of CMG, masticadienonic and isomasticadienonic acids (MNA, IMNA) were isolated in pure form. All samples were analysed by means of High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) with four distinct development systems to obtain their constituents’ profile. Finally, samples were tested for their ability to inhibit the elastase and collagenase enzymes. According to our findings, for collagenase, a mixture of MNA and IMNA demonstrated the most potent activity with an IC50 value of 31.07 μg/mL, while for elastase CMG’s acidic fraction provided the most promising results with an IC50 value of 17.30 μg/mL. Overall, these results attempt to fill the gap in scientific knowledge about the use of CMG and its constituents in skincare and cosmetic products.

Polyphenolic Content and Antimicrobial Effects of Plant Extracts as Adjuncts for Craft Herbal Beer Stabilization.

Extracts from locally grown aromatic plants can enhance the geographical characteristics and microbial stability of craft beers, which are often not pasteurized or filtered. Here, the chemical and antimicrobial properties of aqueous extracts from leaves of Myrtus communis L., Pistacia lentiscus L., Artemisia arborescens L., and floral wastes of Crocus sativus L., all cultivated in Sardinia (Italy), were assessed. P. lentiscus extract had the highest polyphenol content (111.20 mg GAE/g), followed by M. communis (56.80 mg GAE/g), C. sativus (32.80 mg GAE/g), and A. arborescens (8.80 mg GAE/g). Notably, only the M. communis extract demonstrated significant inhibitory activity against pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.18, 0.71, and 1.42 mg GAE/mL against Staphylococcus aureus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Lacticaseibacillus casei, respectively. Additionally, it reduced the growth of Levilactobacillus brevis and Fructilactobacillus lindneri at concentrations of 0.35 and 0.71 mg GAE/mL, respectively. Based on its significant antimicrobial activity, the M. communis extract was further characterized using high-resolution mass spectrometry, revealing high abundances of nonprenylated phloroglucinols, flavonoid derivatives (myricetin), and quinic acids. Lastly, adding M. communis extract (2.84 mg GAE/mL) to commercial beer effectively prevented the growth of L. brevis and F. lindneri, showing its potential to avoid beer's microbial spoilage.

Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of essential oils extracted from fresh and dried aerial parts of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Pistacia lentiscus L. and Thymus vulgaris L. from Algeria

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition and antibacterial activity of essential oils (EOs) extracted from local plant by steam distillation from the aerial parts (fresh – dried) of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), pistachio (Pistacia lentiscus L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.). Monoterpenes were identified by GC-MS as main compounds, namely 1,8-cineole (34.5–35 %), α-pinene (36.2–36.6 %) and thymol (42.2–42.1 %). Our results showed that EOs tested had antibacterial effects at different levels, with MICs ranging from 1.56 to 6.25 mg.mL−1. Fresh rosemary EO was synergistic against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27,853 when combined with dried rosemary EO and fresh pistachio EO, with MICs half those of oils alone (from 6.25 to 3.12 mg.mL−1). In addition, antagonistic, additive and indifferent effects were recorded at 1 %, 3 % and 93 %, respectively. Our findings provide new data on antimicrobial potential of local plants and possibilities of their use as food preservatives.

In vitro, modulation of the dominant intestinal microbiota in type 2 diabetics by controlling antimicrobial activity with the methanolic extract of Pistacia lentiscus L.

The intestinal microbiota has become known as the ‘second brain’ a complementary organ for most metabolic and defensive reactions. The study aims to investigate the potential of the methanolic extract of Pistacia lentiscus leaves to modulate the dominant flora in type 2 diabetic patients compared to healthy subjects, by controlling growth kinetics. Comparative study between the dominant flora of type two diabitics (DT2) and helthy subjects (HS) stools. Using fully sterilized experimental space and materials, the germs were isolated through an antimicrobial study, and their microbial growth kinetics, were analyzed both with and without phytotherapeutic treatment in vitro. This was carried out as part of a study into the effect of methanolic extract from the leaves of the Pistacia lentiscus L. plant harvested in north-west Algeria. The study found a decrease in the quantity of lactobacilli and streptococci in DT2 and an inverse relationship between enterobacteria and streptococci in all microbiotas. On the molecular side. The methanolic extract of P lentiscus leaves gave a super antimicrobial effect for E coli and Clostridium sp at concentrations below their Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (2 mg mL-1), compared with the other gram positives studied, lactobacillus and Streptococcus (4 mg mL-1). This beneficial action confirms the high antimicrobial effect of the methanolic extract of P lentiscus leaves with lower concentration for the quantitative restauration of intestinal microbiota, the intermediary between insoluno-resistance and metabolism. Pistacia lentiscus has the potential to modulate the dominant flora in type 2 diabetics, through its regulatory antimicrobial power.

Chios Mastic Gum: A Promising Phytotherapeutic for Cardiometabolic Health.

Chios mastic gum (CMG) is a resin obtained from the Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia tree that grows in the Mediterranean. For millennia, it has been renowned for its medicinal properties, but recently, CMG has gained attention due to its pronounced anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties and its use in oral health, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, and risk factors related to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. This narrative review seeks to briefly overview its bioactive constituents and examine and describe its potential as a cardiometabolic disease (CMD) phytotherapeutic. The results of clinical trials and in vivo, in vitro, and in silico studies provide accumulating evidence of the mechanisms underlying CMG's impacts on lipid and glucose metabolism, cardiovascular and hepatic health, inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition, and microbiota. Despite the relatively limited studies with mixed results, they have provided the foundation to understand the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities moving forward that may help to establish CMG and its bioactives as viable therapeutics for CMD.

Effect of Pinus halepensis Mill. Reforestation on the Above-Ground Biomass and Internode Elongation and Leaf Size of Native Species in Morroco

This study aims to determine the effect of the reforestation of Pinus halepensis Mill. on the above-ground biomass and morphological characteristics of native species (internode elongation and leaf size) in the Beni Sohane forest. Plant biomass of the herbaceous layer was harvested on randomly selected 2 m2 quadrats in reforested plots of ± 12, ± 25, and ± 45-year-old, and native forest controls. The internode length and leaf size (length and width) were measured on plants randomly selected belonging to four native species Quercus ilex L., Pistacia lentiscus L., Phillyrea angustifolia L., and Cistus creticus L.. The results showed that P. halepensis reforestation had no significant effect on the above-ground biomass and the leaves and internodes dimensions in the young plantations ± 12-year-old. However, as the pine trees mature, the average dry matter weight decreases, especially in stands 45 years old, where this weight was significantly lower than that of natural forests. This fact has led to herders abandoning important pastures previously used by their cattle. In addition, the fast growth of P. halepensis trees formed a canopy above all indigenous species resulting in changes in the dimensions of internodes and leaves. For the two oldest plantations, the internode length, leaf width, and length of the 4 species have been significantly increased. However, the leaf length-to-width ratio decreased significantly, with leaves in reforested plots being larger rather than longer compared to control samples in native forests. Planting P. halepensis can negatively impact the long-term growth of native plants, so we recommend periodically removing some of the pines (thinning) to restore the balance of these ecosystems. Thus, species selection for reforestation should consider maximizing rather than destroying ecological and socioeconomic services.

Effect of Pinus halepensis Mill. Reforestation on the Above-Ground Biomass and Internode Elongation and Leaf Size of Native Species in Morroco

This study aims to determine the effect of the reforestation of Pinus halepensis Mill. on the above-ground biomass and morphological characteristics of native species (internode elongation and leaf size) in the Beni Sohane forest. Plant biomass of the herbaceous layer was harvested on randomly selected 2 m2 quadrats in reforested plots of ± 12, ± 25, and ± 45-year-old, and native forest controls. The internode length and leaf size (length and width) were measured on plants randomly selected belonging to four native species Quercus ilex L., Pistacia lentiscus L., Phillyrea angustifolia L., and Cistus creticus L.. The results showed that P. halepensis reforestation had no significant effect on the above-ground biomass and the leaves and internodes dimensions in the young plantations ± 12-year-old. However, as the pine trees mature, the average dry matter weight decreases, especially in stands 45 years old, where this weight was significantly lower than that of natural forests. This fact has led to herders abandoning important pastures previously used by their cattle. In addition, the fast growth of P. halepensis trees formed a canopy above all indigenous species resulting in changes in the dimensions of internodes and leaves. For the two oldest plantations, the internode length, leaf width, and length of the 4 species have been significantly increased. However, the leaf length-to-width ratio decreased significantly, with leaves in reforested plots being larger rather than longer compared to control samples in native forests. Planting P. halepensis can negatively impact the long-term growth of native plants, so we recommend periodically removing some of the pines (thinning) to restore the balance of these ecosystems. Thus, species selection for reforestation should consider maximizing rather than destroying ecological and socioeconomic services.

Chemical composition and bioactivity of essential oils from Cistus ladanifer L., Pistacia lentiscus L., and Matricaria chamomilla L

The objective of this study was to characterize the volatile compounds from the aerial part of Cistus ladanifer L., Pistacia lentiscus L., and Matricaria chamomilla L., members of Cistaceae, Anacardiaceae, and Asteraceae families, respectively; and assess their potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and enzyme inhibitory properties. The essential oils were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS-MS) analysis. The outcomes revealed distinct chemical profiles indicative of specific chemotypes within each species. Indeed, M. chamomilla essential oil (MCEO) contained sabinene (16.03 %), camphor (11.22 %), 3,6-dihydrochamazulene (14.22 %), and chamazulene (12.84 %) as its primary constituents. C. ladanifer essential oil (CLEO) prominently featured camphene (31.5 %), α-pinene (15.76%), and bornyl acetate (15.73 %), while P. lentiscus essential oil (PLEO) was rich in D-limonene (21 %), β-myrcene (14.89 %), α-pinene (13.93 %), and terpinen-4-ol (9.75 %). Remarkably, PLEO exhibited significant antioxidant activity across multiple assays, demonstrating inhibitory values of 72.07 ± 4.06 mg TE/g of extract (Cuprac), 45.74 ± 1.23 mg TE/g of extract (FRAP), 30.89 ± 1.69 mg EDTAE/g of extract (Chelating), 26.71 ± 1.84 mmol TE/g of extract (Phosphomolybdenum), 15.55 ± 0.84 mg TE/g of extract (ABTS), and 2.30 ± 0.22 mg TE/g of extract (DPPH). The results showed that the microorganisms under examination varied in their sensitivity to essential oils and the inhibitory zone ranged between 25 and 57 mm. The inhibitory effects of the essential oils were investigated against enzymes associated with human pathologies. As findings, CLEO demonstrated substantial inhibition of tyrosinase (10.22 ± 0.13 mg KAE/g of extract) and acetylcholinesterase (4.71 ± 0.97 mg GALAE/g of extract), outperforming other essential oils that displayed moderate activities. These important biological effects of the oils tested qualify these plants as an interesting source of phytochemicals with medicinal actions.

Scent of relief: Mastic resin scent recovers salivation in chronic dry mouth patients

BackgroundOlfactory stimulation with mastic resin, derived from the Pistacia lentiscus tree, demonstrated a bona fide sialagogic effect in healthy volunteers [1]. Its main volatile compound, α-pinene, also showed this effect. The current study aimed to validate the effect of mastic resin volatiles in chronic dry mouth patients with confirmed decreased saliva secretion. Methods41 chronic dry mouth patients with decreased unstimulated saliva secretion (<0.25 mL/min) were exposed to mastic resin volatiles as part of the diagnostic routine at the Saliva Clinic of Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam. During their visit, dry-mouth questionnaires were conducted and samples of unstimulated whole saliva, chew-stimulated saliva, acid-stimulated saliva and mastic resin stimulated saliva were collected. Saliva flow rate, spinnbarkeit, pH, ion composition, MUC5B and MUC7 levels in all samples were analyzed. ResultsSalivary flow rates increased by all stimuli when compared to the baseline unstimulated saliva (P<0.001). During olfactory mastic resin stimulation, the salivary spinnbarkeit (P<0.001) and sodium concentration (P<0.01) were increased compared to unstimulated saliva. MUC5B and MUC7 levels were increased during olfactory mastic resin stimulation compared to chew-stimulated saliva (P=0.016 and P<0.001, respectively). Spinnbarkeit correlated positively with MUC5B (R=0.399, P=0.002) and MUC7 levels (R=0.375, P=0.004). Results of dry-mouth questionnaires indicated reduced posterior palate dryness shortly after olfactory mastic resin stimulation (P=0.04). ConclusionsOlfactory mastic resin stimulation increased mucous saliva secretion and reduced posterior palate dryness in a group of chronic dry mouth patients. These findings, validated in patients, underscore mastic resin scent as a beneficial and non-invasive sialagogic treatment for clinical applications.