Medicinal Benefits Research Articles

Ilex asprella-derived polysaccharide activates macrophage via TLR4-mediated NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways

Ilex asprella, a valued herb in China, is recognized for its medicinal and dietary benefits, yet its active components and mechanisms of action have been largely unknown. This study focused on the polysaccharide extracted from Ilex asprella (IAP) and to investigate its structural characteristics and immunomodulatory effects. The results indicated IAP had a molecular weight of 3324 Da and was mainly composed of arabinose, galactose, glucose, and mannose. In vitro study showed 10, 50, and 100 μg/mL of IAP significantly increased the mRNA expression of inducible nitric-oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, reactive oxygen, and cytokines in RAW264.7 macrophages. According to the results, IAP also facilitated the nucleus translocation of NF-κB p65 and activated the phosphorylation of p38, JNK, and ERK, revealing IAP activated RAW264.7 cells via NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Furthermore, the results of membranes receptor inhibitor administration suggested toll-like receptor 4 might be the action target of IAP.

Agribusiness Prospects of Kachai Lemon Produced in Ukhrul District of Manipur, India: Status, Issues and Way Forward

Kachai lemon (Citrus jambhiri Lush.) is a variety of citrus, known for its rich nutritional and medicinal benefits due to its high flavonoid content and ascorbic acid. It has played a significant role in enhancing the socio-economic development of the tribal communities by generating income and employment opportunities. The Geographical Indication (GI) tag awarded to Kachai lemon has increased its commercial cultivation and market value. This recognition and growing attention have led to the emergence of agripreneurs and farmer producer organizations (FPOs) for production, value addition and marketing of Kachai lemon in an organized manner. The present study is aimed to compile the success stories, challenges of farmers and explore various Kachai lemon brands available on online platforms. A SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats) analysis on production and marketing of kachai lemon was performed. For the study, descriptive analysis was carried out to assess its potential, current status and challenges. The study suggests that in order to compete globally, it is crucial to develop strong post-harvest processing and marketing systems with support from agencies and institutions to provide valuable resources and market linkages to enhance efficiency and gain economic benefits.

Wound Healing, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidant Activities, and Chemical Composition of Korean Propolis from Different Sources

Propolis, such as is used as bio-cosmetics and in functional materials, is increasing because of its antioxidant medicinal benefits. However, its pharmacological and chemical composition is highly variable, relative to its geography and botanical origins. Comparative studies on three propolis samples collected from different regions in Korea have been essential for linking its provenance, chemical composition, and biological activity, thereby ensuring the efficient utilization of its beneficial properties. Here, we report the chemical composition and biological activities such as the antioxidant, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanolic extract of Korean propolis collected from two regions. We compared the chemical constituents of three 70% ethanol-extracted (EE) samples, including the Andong, Gongju field (GF), and Gongju mountain (GM)-sourced propolis using Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The major and common components of these EE Korean propolis were flavonoids such as pinocembrin (12.0–17.7%), chrysin (5.2–6.8%), and apigenin (5.30–5.84%). The antioxidant property using a 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity assay of EEP showed substantial differences among samples with the highest from Andong. The sample 10% GM levigated in simple ointment was found to be the most active in wound healing activity based on the excision, incision, and dead space wound models. The potential of propolis for wound healing is mainly due to its evidenced properties, such as its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and angiogenesis promoter effects, which need further study. The anti-inflammatory activity and NO production inhibitory effect were highest in GM samples. However, GM and GF samples demonstrated similar inhibitory effects on the expression of inflammatory mediators such as iNOS, IL-1β, and IL-6. The presence of a higher concentration of flavonoids in Korean EE propolis might be responsible for their promising wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Indian hidden tuber “Ram Kand Mool” (Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich): Cultivation, phytochemistry and potential applications—A comprehensive review

AbstractRam Kand Mool (Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich) is a little tree or shrub. It grows easily from seed or cuttings and requires minimal care. The leaves and roots of Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich have most commonly been used for ages. This shrub has a mythological importance in Indian beliefs. Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich has many ethnobotanical uses. Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich contains various phytochemicals, including terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids. These phytochemicals have antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. Traditional medical practices use it to treat inflammation, pain, infections, skin diseases, and gastrointestinal concerns. Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich may be used in pharmaceutical, nutritional, and personal care products. It is useful in the kitchen, medical cabinet, and cosmetics sector. The information compiled indicates that Ram Kand Mool has enormous potential for utilization as a functional food and various other value‐added products. Pre‐treatments are needed to remove the anti‐nutritional factors present in it. This article describes the nutritional and medicinal benefits of Maerua oblongifolia A. Rich in detail. The information about the medicinal usage of Ram Kand Mool in traditional medical practices and nutritional benefits have been comprehensively compiled in this article.

Research Progress on Viruses of Passiflora edulis.

Passiflora edulis, also known as passion fruit, is celebrated for its rich nutritional content, distinctive flavour, and significant medicinal benefits. At present, viral diseases pose a major challenge to the passion fruit industry, affecting both the production and quality of the fruit. These diseases impede the sustainable and healthy growth of the passion fruit sector. In recent years, with the expansion of P. edulis cultivation areas, virus mutations, and advances in virus detection technology, an increasing number of virus species infecting P. edulis have been discovered. To date, more than 40 different virus species have been identified; however, there are different strains within the same virus. This poses a challenge for the control and prevention of P. edulis virus disease. Therefore, this review discusses the different types of viruses and their characteristics, modes of transmission, and effects on the growth of the passion fruit plant, as well as the mechanisms of virus generation and preventive measures, with the hope that these discussions will provide a comprehensive understanding of and countermeasures for viruses in passion fruit.

A Review of Therapeutic and Medicinal Uses of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum L.)

Current lifestyle and excessive use of synthetic fertilizers in agriculture field promote an unhealthy lifestyle that urges the researchers looking for a healthy and beneficial diet. Numerous crop plants have nutritional, functional, nutraceutical, and therapeutic properties. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum gracium) is a popular crop known for these qualities and is beneficial in the human diet. It is an annual plant from the Leguminosae family that is commonly grown in the Mediterranean and Asian countries. It is mostly grown for its spices, though it can also be used for food (feed) and medicinal (antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic properties). Fenugreek is famous for its versatile uses, grown under moderate conditions (drought and salinity), white flowering herb, and self-pollinated plant. Fenugreek composition consists of various nutrients like vitamins, minerals, proteins, lipids, fibre, amino acids, and bioactive compounds that are used for medicinal purposes. Due to higher fibre content fenugreek is called a food stabilizer and emulsifying agent for changing food texture. Fenugreek has numerous health benefits, including the ability to lower blood sugar, heart problems, menstrual cramps, anti-cancer, reduce inflammation, and support healthy skin and hair. This review highlights the nutritional value of fenugreek with various health and medicinal benefits. Despite its multiple advantages, this review paper also discussed health problems associated with the usage of fenugreek, such as allergies and possible adverse effects linked with fenugreek use.

Chromosome-level genome assembly of two cultivated Jujubes

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is a valuable tree species with economic, edible, medicinal, and ecological conservation benefits. In this study, we used PacBio HiFi sequencing and Hi-C technology to assemble chromosome-level genomes of two cultivated Jujubes, namely ‘Lingwuchangzao’ and ‘Shiguang’. The genome sizes of ‘Lingwuchangzao’ and ‘Shiguang’ were 385.66 Mb and 394.12 Mb, respectively, with contig N50 sizes of 30.62 Mb and 4.30 Mb. These genomes contained 31,082 and 31,015 protein-coding genes, with repeat element contents of 42.11% and 42.33%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that ‘Lingwuchangzao’ was sister to ‘Shiguang’ and followed by ‘Dongzao’. Additionally, comparative analysis of gene families among ‘Lingwuchangzao’, ‘Shiguang’, ‘Dongzao’, ‘Junzao’, and ‘Suanzao’ identified 15,988 (57.98%) core gene families, 11,191 (40.59%) disposable gene families, and 394 (1.43%) private gene families. Overall, the assembly of the genomes of these two cultivated Jujube varieties provides valuable genetic information for Jujube evolution, functional genomics research, and molecular breeding.

Evaluation of methyl jasmonate as elicitor in the production of cycloartane saponins in Astragalus aitosensis in vitro root cultures

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment is known to increase the levels of plant secondary metabolites. The significant medicinal benefits of cycloartane type saponins, including immune modulation, antiviral properties, and antitumor activity, drive high global demand, making sustainable production methods economically, medically, and ecologically important. In this study the effect of MeJA as an elicitor for promoting higher accumulation of cycloartane saponins – astragaloside I, II and IV was evaluated. The experiment was conducted using biotechnological approaches for sustainable production using in vitro root cultures of the endemic plant species Astragalus aitosensis, which is known to produce rare cycloartane saponins. LC-HRESI-MS analysis was used to identify and quantify compounds. The content of astragaloside I increased significantly by 68% (118 ng/mg DW) compared to control group (70 ng/mg DW). Astragaloside II was found with 1.5 points increased amount (473 ng/mg DW), compared to control (331 ng/mg DW) and astragaloside IV production was also improved. The highest cost-efficacy concentration of the elicitor for all tested astragalosides was observed at 50 µL MeJA.

Assessment of neuromodulatory effects of Origanum punonense danin essential oil on AMPA receptor function using whole-cell patch-clamp technique

Introduction: The quest for natural compounds with neuromodulatory properties has gained significant momentum in neuropharmacology. Among these, Origanum punonense (O. punonense) essential oil (EO) stands out due to its rich bioactive profile, particularly characterized by carvacrol. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of O. punonense EO on α-amino-3‑hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPAR), crucial synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function mediators. Methods: Leaves of O. punonense were collected along the Dead Sea coast in Jericho. After washing, it was dried in the shade for 15 days and ground. Essential oil was extracted using a microwave-ultrasonic method, with ultrasonic waves to enhance extraction. Using whole-cell patch-clamp techniques, we studied the effects of O. punonense EO on AMPAR kinetics in HEK293t cells transfected with homomeric and heteromeric subunits. Results: O. punonense EO significantly reduced AMPAR's whole-cell currents, indicating a targeted modulation of synaptic responses. Oil administration inhibited the currents for glutamate receptor subunits GluA1 (reduced from 885±58 pA to 342±20 pA), GluA1/2 (from 627±77 pA to 209±36 pA), GluA2 (from 1125±112 pA to 256±37 pA), and GluA2/3 (from 474±79 pA to 125±31 pA). The EO decreased the desensitization rate significantly for GluA2 and GluA2/3 (p < 0.01) and for GluA1/2 (p < 0.05), except for GluA1. In addition, the EO increased the deactivation rate significantly for GluA2 and GluA2/3 (p < 0.01) and for GluA1/2 (p < 0.05), with no effect observed on GluA1. Conclusions: This study highlights the possible properties of O. punonense EO and suggests future research to understand its medicinal benefits in neurodegenerative diseases.

Introduction and Agrotechnology of Greek Chambala (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.) in Surkhondaryo Region

This research explores the introduction and agrotechnology of Greek Chambala (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan. The study focuses on the growth development and medicinal properties of this leguminous herb, with particular emphasis on agrotechnological factors such as planting dates, row spacing, and chemical protection measures that influence productivity. Greek Chambala is valued for its bioactive compounds, known for medicinal benefits like managing diabetes and obesity. The experiment was conducted at the "Jonchekka Sarhadlari" farm using different planting configurations and fertilization methods. The results showed that planting in November yielded optimal seed development and contributed to soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. The findings provide practical insights for enhancing the cultivation of Greek Chambala in Surkhandarya's climatic conditions, making it a promising crop for both agricultural and medicinal purposes.

Therapeutic Benefits of &lt;i&gt;Palash&lt;/i&gt; (&lt;i&gt;Butea monosperma&lt;/i&gt;): A Review of its Pharmacological Activities

One of humankind’s first recognized medicinal needs for long-term health is herbs, which form the basis of current medicine. Worldwide, there is a need and desire for nutritious diets with extra benefits. Palash is one such significant plant that can be found in various places. Since ancient times, the Fabaceae family plant known as Palash (Butea monosperma Lamk. Taub.) has been utilized for medicinal purposes. It can be used for festivals and God worships in most of India’s regions. The properties and modes of action of the plant’s bioactive components, which include flavonoids, steroids, and other kinds of phytochemicals, will determine how it could be used. Scientific studies using pharmaceutical preparations have demonstrated the medicinal benefits of traditional plant parts, including leaves, flowers, seeds, bark, roots, and gum. These preparations have been found to possess anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, wound-healing, and diuretic properties, among many other qualities.

The mitochondrial genome of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (Lamiaceae) sheds light on its genome structure and gene transfer between organelles

BackgroundLavandula angustifolia holds importance as an aromatic plant with extensive applications spanning the fragrance, perfume, cosmetics, aromatherapy, and spa sectors. Beyond its aesthetic and sensory applications, this plant offers medicinal benefits as a natural herbal remedy and finds use in household cleaning products. While extensive genomic data, inclusive of plastid and nuclear genomes, are available for this species, researchers have yet to characterize its mitochondrial genome. This gap in knowledge hampers deeper understanding of the genome organization and its evolutionary significance.ResultsThrough the course of this study, we successfully assembled and annotated the mitochondrial genome of L. angustifolia, marking a first in this domain. This assembled genome encompasses 61 genes, which comprise 34 protein-coding genes, 24 transfer RNA genes, and three ribosomal RNA genes. We identified a chloroplast sequence insertion into the mitogenome, which spans a length of 10,645 bp, accounting for 2.94% of the mitogenome size. Within these inserted sequences, there are seven intact tRNA genes (trnH-GUG, trnW-CCA, trnD-GUC, trnS-GGA, trnN-GUU, trnT-GGU, trnP-UGG) and four complete protein-coding genes (psbA, rps15, petL, petG) of chloroplast derivation. Additional discoveries include 88 microsatellites, 15 tandem repeats, 74 palindromic repeats, and 87 forward long repeats. An RNA editing analysis highlighted an elevated count of editing sites in the cytochrome c oxidase genes, notably ccmB with 34 editing sites, ccmFN with 32, and ccmC with 29. All protein-coding genes showed evidence of cytidine-to-uracil conversion. A phylogenetic analysis, utilizing common protein-coding genes from 23 Lamiales species, yielded a tree with consistent topology, supported by high confidence values.ConclusionsAnalysis of the current mitogenome resource revealed its typical circular genome structure. Notably, sequences originally from the chloroplast genome were found within the mitogenome, pointing to the occurrence of horizontal gene transfer between organelles. This assembled mitogenome stands as a valuable resource for subsequent studies on mitogenome structures, their evolution, and molecular biology.

Phytochemical and metagenomic insights into the antioxidant and anticancer properties of Elaeagnus pyriformis wine

AbstractThe luscious fruit‐bearing plant Elaeagnus pyriformis (Hook. f.), sometimes called oleaster or silverberry, is found in northeastern India. Natives from this region consume fruit because it is believed to be nutritious and to offer protection against various diseases. This study aimed to prepare wine from Elaeagnus fruits and assess its nutritional content and antioxidant and anticancer properties in cancer cell lines. GC‒MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) was utilized to determine the active phytocompounds in the wine, which were then docked against cancer‐related proteins. Simultaneously, 16S rRNA metagenomic analysis was conducted to identify the diverse bacterial species present in the wine samples. The results revealed significant amounts of free fatty acids, free amino acids, total sugars, total protein, macroelements, and microelements in Elaeagnus wine (oleaster wine). Oleaster wine exhibited high antioxidant activity, indicating its significant medicinal importance. Eleven putative phytocompounds were identified through GC‒MS analysis and a molecular docking study of these compounds revealed favorable interactions with the studied cancer‐related proteins. A cell line study revealed that the wine possessed noteworthy anticancer activity, supporting its potential medicinal and biological benefits, as demonstrated by the in silico results. Furthermore, metagenomic analysis of the 16S rRNA V3–V4 region revealed that the wine sample and microbial population contained diverse bacterial species, which play a vital role in the anticancer properties. Considering all the in vitro, in silico, and metagenomic data, it can be concluded that the wine offers therapeutic and health benefits.

Chemical Composition Of Neem Seedlings (Azadirachta Indica L.) Sprayed With Arginine, Kinetin, And Chelated Iron

A pot experiment was carried out in the canopy of the Horticulture and Landscape Department - College of Agriculture - University of Kerbala during the 2023-2024 season to study the effect of kinetin (K) (0, 50, 100 mg L-1), arginine (A) (0, 150, 300 mg L-1), and chelated iron (F) (0 and 200 mg L-1) on some qualitative characteristics of neem seedlings. The study was implemented as a factorial experiment with a completely randomized block design with three replications. The majority of chemical features were significantly impacted by kinetin spraying, with the exception of the proportion of nitrogen, potassium, and protein in the leaves. Arginine affected all traits except total chlorophyll, while chelated iron mainly impacted potassium percentage. The research factors had varying effects on the features under investigation in the binary interaction findings. Treatment K1A1 produced the greatest rate of total chlorophyll, measuring 56.19 mg g-1 fresh weight, While the Fe2A2 treatment was superior in increasing the percentage of carbohydrates (13.31 mg g dry weight-1). With an average percentage of 3.308% for nitrogen content and 0.1588% for phosphorus, treatment K0A2 and treatment K1A2 respectively yielded the greatest percentages. However, treatment K0A1 produced a substantially higher percentage of protein, at 20.67%. Only the percentage of phosphorus was significantly affected by the triple intervention; the K1A0Fe2 treatment produced the highest rate of 0.1640%. This study concludes that High kinetin levels may have adverse effects, but when combined with nutrient-rich fertilizers, they can enhance seedling characteristics of trees with medicinal benefits.

Antioxidant Activity of Arabian Leaves (Ziziphus spina-christi L) and Cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii (Nees &amp; T. Nees) Blume) Herbal Tea

Herbal tea is a drink made from the roots, stems, flowers, leaves, seeds and fruit skin of plants which have medicinal plant benefits, easily dissolved in hot water. Herbal teas have health benefits related to the antioxidant and free radical inhibitor activity of tea which is rich in phenolic and flavonoid compounds. This study aims to determine the physical quality and antioxidant activity of herbal tea from Arabic bidara leaves and cinnamon. The method and type of research carried out is quantitative research using a descriptive design. Test parameters include physical quality tests, qualitative flavonoid tests, quantitative flavonoid tests and antioxidant activity tests using a UV-Vis Spectrophotometer. The research results from the physical quality test of chopped herbal tea have a brownish yellow color, a typical tea smell, and a typical tea bitter taste. Qualitative flavonoid tests showed that herbal tea contained flavonoid compounds in the flavonol group due to the orange color that was formed, then continued with a test to determine total flavonoid levels with results of 14.382%. The antioxidant test results on herbal tea showed an IC 50 value of 38.294 mg/L, which is included in the very strong antioxidant category.

Exploring polyphenolic profiles by using a mutlvariate approach in Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad

Plants have held profound cultural and medicinal significance throughout human history. Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad, known as Tumba in Rajasthan, Kaudtumba in Punjab, and Garhtumba or Indriyian in Haryana, stands as a crucial wild plant, resembling the watermelon vine and thriving in arid terrains. Local communities have long utilized this wild plant for diverse purposes. The genus is abundant in secondary metabolites, playing a pivotal role in the body's defense mechanisms. This study aimed to unravel the essential phytochemicals present in Citrullus colocynthis. The preliminary phase involved quantitative analysis, followed by screening of total phenolic and flavonoid content of different accessions. Subsequently, HPLC was employed to quantify the variance of phenolics and flavonoids in 10 selected accessions. The study highlights significant phenolic content in accession CRR19064 (69.17 ± 0.03 mg TAE/g) and CRB19004 (69.12 ± 0.01 mg TAE/g) from methanolic extracts. Regarding flavonoids, accession CHR19013 displayed the highest content (76.74 ± 0.03 mg QE/g), followed by accession CPM19021 (74.37 ± 0.01 mg QE/g) from methanolic extracts, underlining their potential medicinal benefits. The Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to explore correlations between bioactive components and accessions. The first five principal components explained 83.41% of cumulative variability. Further, Agglomerative Hierarchical Analysis categorized the accessions into four clusters. These findings crucial to discover the therapeutic potential applications of this wild plant, paving the way for future research and targeted utilization of its bioactive components. In conclusion, the study underscores the wealth of bioactive compounds in C. colocynthis, reaffirming its potential in traditional medicine and providing valuable insights for future pharmacological research and drug development.

Unveiling the therapeutic potentialities and chemical characterization of methanolic Merremia vitifolia (Burm.f) Hallier f. stem extract: A Multi-faceted investigation via in vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches

Current study focused on Merremia vitifolia an ethnomedicinal plant, aiming to explore its medicinal properties comprehensively. Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, the study investigated the phytochemical components of M. vitifolia stem extract and assessed its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, locomotor, and antidiarrheal activities. The evaluation involved a combination of in vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches.In-vitro antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH scavenging assay, while anti-inflammatory activity was assessed via a protein denaturation assay. In-vivo experiments included tests for antidepressant effects (FST, TST), anxiolytic effects (EPM, HBT), locomotor effects (OFT, HCT), and analgesic activity (formalin-induced licking test and acetic acid-induced writhing test). Additionally, the antidiarrheal effect was evaluated through castor oil-induced diarrhea and gastrointestinal motility tests. Fifteen bioactive compounds were identified based on their biological activities from GC/MS data and subjected to in silico molecular docking; ADME/T profiling and pass prediction.MEMVS had an IC50 value of 74.97 μg/mL and MEMVS elicited 77.17 ± 0.39 % inhibition protein denaturation compared to standard (87.23 ± 0.30 %) at 500 μg/mL. In addition, MEMVS induced a dose-dependent reduction in analgesic, neuropharmacological assay, inhibition in diarrheal feces count, and intestinal motility with a significant value (aP< 0.001). In computer-aided investigation, all compounds adhere to Lipinski's rule of five and demonstrate highest binding affinity to isolates compared to standard drugs, confirming laboratory findings.Research findings suggest that MEMVS holds promising potential, as a multifaceted therapeutic agent, exhibiting antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal and neuropharmacological properties. However, further investigation is needed to fully harness its medicinal benefits.

Phytochemical Profiling of Pleurotus Pulmonarius from Paddy Straw Substrate.

This paper focuses on the cultivation of Pleurotus pulmonarius mushroom, to find the Preliminary phytochemical analysis from five different solvent extracts of P. pulmonarius. Mushrooms are white fungi that are recognized as a good food source and contain a variety of medicinal benefits. In terms of nutrition, mushrooms are better than a lot of veggies because it contain around 40 to 49% protein. The current study integrates phytochemical analysis with the production of P. pulmonarius mushroom. The mushroom grew on paddy straw, which had been used as a substrate. The Pleurotus mushroom accounts for 25% of the total edible mushroom production worldwide. Fresh mushroom fruit bodies were picked, dried, pulverized, and extracted using a soxhlet apparatus. The pH, humidity and temperature of the surroundings were maintained in between the mycelia growth. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of five different extracts from P. pulmonarius was tested using various solvents, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, steroids, glycosides, saponins, proteins, quinones, carbohydrates and phenols. Further research can be conducted to determine the bioactive substances from this particular mushroom.

PRESERVING NUTMEG : HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE, MEDICINAL BENEFITS, AND CLIMATE CHANGE THREATS TO INDONESIAN NUTMEG

Over the past thousand years, scholars and practitioners, drawing from diverse fields including culture, philosophy, sociology, and history, have meticulously documented the intricacies of various medicinal substances and their applications. In this continuum of knowledge, nutmeg, a quintessential spice of Indonesian heritage, has held a prominent place. This study aims to explore the historical significance of nutmeg in Indonesia, its role in medicinal practices, and the threats posed by climate change to nutmeg cultivation. The research seeks to provide valuable insights into the cultural and historical importance of nutmeg in Indonesian society, as well as its medicinal benefits. Additionally, the study aims to analyze the potential impact of climate change on nutmeg production in Indonesia. The study uncovered nutmeg's diverse significance in Indonesia across historical, cultural, medicinal, and economic realms. It emphasized nutmeg's medicinal potential and the climate change challenges to its production. Findings stressed the necessity of robust climate policies and proactive adaptation strategies to ensure nutmeg farming sustainability. In conclusion, this study highlights nutmeg's historical, medicinal, and climate change-related challenges in Indonesia. It stresses the necessity of comprehensive measures to address climate change impacts and integrate resilience strategies into nutmeg farming practices and policymaking. These findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders to ensure the sustainable growth of Indonesian nutmeg exports amidst environmental changes.

Sesame, an Underutilized Oil Seed Crop: Breeding Achievements and Future Challenges.

Sesame seeds and their edible oil are highly nutritious and rich in mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Bioactive compounds such as sterols, tocopherols, and sesamol provide significant medicinal benefits. The high oil content (50%) and favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acid balance, as well as resilience to water stress, make sesame a promising candidate crop for global agricultural expansion. However, sesame production faces challenges such as low yields, poor response to agricultural inputs, and losses due to capsule dehiscence. To enhance yield, traits like determinate growth, dwarfism, a high harvest index, non-shattering capsules, disease resistance, and photoperiod sensitivity are needed. These traits can be achieved through variation or induced mutation breeding. Crossbreeding methods often result in unwanted genetic changes. The gene editing CRISPR/Cas9 technology has the potential to suppress detrimental alleles and improve the fatty acid profile by inhibiting polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis. Even though sesame is an orphan crop, it has entered the genomic era, with available sequences assisting molecular breeding efforts. This progress aids in associating single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and simple sequence repeats (SSR) with key economic traits, as well as identifying genes related to adaptability, oil production, fatty acid synthesis, and photosynthesis. Additionally, transcriptomic research can reveal genes involved in abiotic stress responses and adaptation to diverse climates. The mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) can identify loci linked to key traits such as capsule size, seed count per capsule, and capsule number per plant. This article reviews recent advances in sesame breeding, discusses ongoing challenges, and explores potential strategies for future improvement. Hence, integrating advanced genomic tools and breeding strategies provides promising ways to enhance sesame production to meet global demands.