Allspice Research Articles

Study on the Therapeutic Potential of Pimenta dioica Phytocompounds Isolated from Stem Extract and its Analysis through GCMS Profiling

Study on the Therapeutic Potential of Pimenta dioica Phytocompounds Isolated from Stem Extract and its Analysis through GCMS Profiling

Comparative Study on Quorum Modulatory Effect of Selected Medicinal Plants on Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12472 (MTCC 2656)

Among the main global health concern is the rampant rise in antibiotic resistant bacteria. One of the appealing and promising strategies to combat this menace is to target the adaptive mechanism called quorum sensing (QS) used by bacteria to survive. Exploratory research on anti-QS compounds derived from natural products has been a promising area. The present study investigated methanolic extracts from 26 plants to compare their anti-QS activity using the QS biosensor strain Chromobacterium violaceum American Type Culture Collection (ATCC 12472) (Microbial Type Culture Collection MTCC2656). QS-mediated violacein pigment inhibition was carried out using agar well diffusion method with concentrations ranging from 10 mg/ml to 100 mg/ml. Leaf extracts of Mangifera indica and Pimenta dioica and peel extract of Punica granatum were the only three plants found to exhibit violacein inhibitory potential till 10 mg/ml. The result of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) showed 1.6 mg/ml for M. indica and P. dioica and 6.25 mg/ml for P. granatum. Further, violacein inhibitory properties of these extracts at and below MIC were evaluated by well diffusion assay (qualitative) and by flask incubation assay (quantitative). The zone of inhibition (well diffusion assay) was found to be 14.51 ± 0.63 mm to 10.37 ± 0.68mm for M. indica, 15.23 ± 0.57 mm to 9.62 ± 1.29 mm for P. granatum and 17.01 ± 0.1 mm to 13.14 ± 0.18 mm for P. dioica. The inhibitory effect of the plant extracts via quantitative assay on violacein ranged from 83-49%, 89-81%, and 89-49% for M. indica, P. granatum, and P. dioica respectively. Our findings suggested the potential of M. indica, P. granatum, and P. dioica methanolic extracts as a source of effective inhibitors of QS-mediated violacein production.

Improving the extraction yield of essential oil from Pimenta dioica (L.) Merr. using Aspergillus niger ATCC 1004 enzyme blend.

The objective of this work was to optimize the application of an enzymatic blend produced by Aspergillus niger ATCC 1004 on the Pimenta dioica fruits for essential oil extraction. The enzyme blend was obtained from the fermentation of cocoa bean shells, an agro-industrial residue. The effects of the enzymatic pre-treatment on the extraction yield, the chemical composition of the oil through gas chromatography, and the fruit structure through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were assessed. A Doehlert design was used to optimize the process conditions, resulting in an extraction with 117mL of enzyme during 77min, which increased the extraction yield by 387.5%. The chemical composition was not altered, which proves that the enzyme blend preserves the quality of the essential oil extracted. The content of eugenol (70%), the major compound in the P. dioica essential oil, had a great increase in its concentration (560%). The enzyme activity analyses showed the presence of endoglucanase (0.4U/mL), exoglucanase (0.25U/mL), β-glucosidase (0.19U/mL), and invertase (135.08U/mL). The microscopy analyses revealed changes in the morphology of fruit surface due to the enzymatic action. These results demonstrate the great potential of using enzyme blends produced by filamentous fungi from agro-industrial residues for the essential oils extraction of interest for the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Optimising essential oil yields and quality from Pimenta dioica (L.) merr. Leaf: impact of NaCl concentrations, pH media and sequential separation of essential oil components during hydrodistillation

The study examined the effects of herb drying, salt concentration, pH, and sampling approach on essential oil yield and composition in Pimenta dioica (L.) Merr. Fresh samples yielded higher essential oil (EO) (1.25%) than shade-dried ones. Increasing NaCl concentration correlated with higher EO yields, while a basic pH favoured superior yields. Gas Chromatography identified Eugenol and β-myrcene as primary constituents. Eugenol content peaked at 10% NaCl (56.429%) and was lowest at pH 4 (42.850%). β-myrcene content was highest at pH 4 (31.476%). Hydro distillation with systematic sampling evaluated the effects of 14 fractions in different time frames. Phenylpropanoids (mainly eugenol) and acyclic monoterpene (mainly β-myrcene) dominated all fractions, with cyclic monoterpene (mainly limonene) enriched in the first four fractions. Fractions 10 to 14 showed significant increases in eugenol compared to the control. These findings provide insights for meeting market demands, enhancing the commercial potential of P. dioica EO.

Molecular Docking and ADMET Profiling of Pimenta Dioica Bioactives: Targeting Carboxylesterase 1

ABSTRACT The study explored the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and potential antihyperlipidemic effects of Allspice (Pimenta dioica) leaf essential oil. The oil yield from hydro-distillation was 1.61 ± 0.35% (v/w), with major compounds identified by GC-MS analysis as eugenol (72.06 ± 3.93%), β-pinene (9.29 ± 3.33%), chavicol (6.95 ± 0.6%), limonene (3.05 ± 0.71%), and 3-octenol (1.55 ± 1.07%). The oil’s antioxidant activity (426 ± 3.5 mg TE g−1) was attributed to polyphenols. It also reduced porcine pancreatic lipase activity, suggesting potential in managing dietary lipids. Molecular docking showed strong binding to CES1, with eugenol, limonene, β-pinene, and octenol outperforming the control (probucol). ADME-Tox predictions indicated favorable pharmacological profiles with controlled lipophilicity and toxicity.

Chemical composition and antifungal activity of essential oils extracted from Pimenta dioica and Piper auritum leaves grown in Mexico

Chemical composition and antifungal activity of essential oils extracted from <i>Pimenta dioica</i> and <i>Piper auritum</i> leaves grown in Mexico

Discovery of bitter masking compounds from Allspice (Pimenta dioica) using sensory guided isolation

Bitter substances in functional foods and beverages can act as nutraceuticals, offering potential health benefits. However, their unpleasant sensory impact reduces the consumption of these foods. Consequently, the discovery of bitter masking compounds is crucial for enhancing the intake of bioactive compounds in functional foods and beverages. Bitter taste is mediated by TAS2Rs, a sub-family of G-protein-coupled receptors. TAS2R14 is especially pivotal in the perception of bitterness, as it is one of the most broadly tuned bitter receptors. In this study, allspice was extracted and purified to yield five single compounds based on sensory guided fractionation. The structures of each compound were determined based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS). In a sensory evaluation, compound 1 exhibited bitter masking activity against quinine. Molecular docking analysis revealed that compound 1 could act as an antagonist of the TAS2R14 bitter receptor.

Phyto-pharmacological Evaluation of Pimenta dioica (Linn.) Merill, Essential oil for Anthelmintic and Antimicrobial potential

Pimenta dioica (Linn.) Merill., belongs to the family Myrtaceous, has been used as a spice and is well known for its culinary as well as medicinal values. The aim of the current study was to assess the in vitro antimicrobial, anthelmintic activity and phytochemical composition of the essential oil extracted from Pimenta dioica leaves. The extraction of essential oil was performed with the Clevenger apparatus, by hydro-distillation. Pimenta dioica essential oil yield was 1.03%. The GC-MS analysis of this Pimenta dioica essential oil showed that eugenol (74.72%) was the predominant component. The essential oil showed potent anthelmintic activity assay when analysed by the adult worm’s motility assay. It has shown a comparable paralysis and disintegration profile of the model organism to that of the standard drug albendazole. The essential oil was also found to be effective against common human pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Escherichia coli, Chromobacterium violaceum and Proteus vulgaris. It also showed moderate antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. These results proved that Pimenta dioica essential oil could be used as a source of the lead molecule for developing novel anthelmintic or antimicrobial agents.

SAR, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Natural Inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro Spike Protein.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus and its mutations have affected human health globally and created significant danger for the health of people all around the world. To cure this virus, the human Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor, the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), and spike proteins were found to be likely candidates for the synthesis of novel therapeutic drug. In the past, proteins were capable of engaging in interaction with a wide variety of ligands, including both manmade and plant-derived small molecules. Pyrus communis L., Ginko bibola, Carica papaya, Syrian rue, and Pimenta dioica were some of the plant species that were studied for their tendency to interact with SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) in this research project (6LU7). This scenario investigates the geometry, electronic, and thermodynamic properties computationally. Assessing the intermolecular forces of phytochemicals with the targets of the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro spike protein (SP) resulted in the recognition of a compound, kaempferol, as the most potent binding ligand, -7.7 kcal mol-1. Kaempferol interacted with ASP-187, CYS-145, SER-144, LEU 141, MET-165, and GLU-166 residues. Through additional molecular dynamic simulations, the stability of ligand-protein interactions was assessed for 100 ns. GLU-166 remained intact with 33% contact strength with phenolic OH group. We noted a change in torsional conformation, and the molecular dynamics simulation showed a potential variation in the range from 3.36 to 7.44 against a 45-50-degree angle rotation. SAR, pharmacokinetics, and drug-likeness characteristic investigations showed that kaempferol may be the suitable candidate to serve as a model for designing and developing new anti-COVID-19 medicines.

Allspice (Pimenta dioica) essential oil mediates sphingosine kinase inhibition and subsequent induction of apoptosis in gastric cancer cells

Gastric cancer (GC), with its high morbidity and mortality rates, emerged as an important health concern in developing countries. Intracellular lipid kinases such as sphingosine kinase (SphK) play a pivotal role in the onset and progression of gastric cancers. Plant products such as essential oils are important drug candidates against various cancers. The Allspice (Pimenta dioica) essential oil was extracted by hydro-distillation methods. The anticancer activity was estimated against gastric cancer cells using MTT assay. The expression of SphK1 and SphK2 genes were assessed using qPCR. The Allspice essential oil (AEO) was shown to inhibit the proliferation of gastric cancer cells. Further, the level of reduced glutathione was significantly reduced by the AEO treatment with a concomitant increase in the reactive oxygen species levels. Further, the mRNA expression of SphK1 and SphK2 isoforms was evaluated; the pre-treatment of gastric cancer cells with varying doses of AEO significantly inhibited the expression of both SphK1 and SphK2. Besides, the expression of pro-apoptotic genes including caspases and apaf were upregulated in these cells treated with AEO. Overall, the study indicated the possible application of AEO in GC prevention by interfering with the SphK signaling and thereby inducing apoptotic cell death.

In Vitro Evaluation of Essential Oils and Saturated Fatty Acids for Repellency against the Old-World Sand Fly, Phlebotomus papatasi (Scopoli) (Diptera: Psychodidae).

The sand fly, Phlebotomus papatasi (Scopoli, 1786), is a major vector for Leishmania major in the Middle East, which has impacted human health and US military operations in the area, demonstrating the need to develop effective sand fly control and repellent options. Here, we report the results of spatial repellency and avoidance experiments in a static air olfactometer using the female P. papatasi testing essential oils of Lippia graveolens (Mexican oregano), Pimenta dioica (allspice), Amyris balsamifera (amyris), Nepeta cataria (catnip), Mentha piperita (peppermint), and Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree); the 9-12 carbon saturated fatty acids (nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid, and dodecanoic acid); and the synthetic repellents DEET and IR3535. The materials applied at 1% exhibited varying activity levels but were not significantly different in mean repellency and avoidance from DEET and IR3535, except in regards to nonanoic acid. Some materials, particularly nonanoic and undecanoic acids, produced sand fly mortality. The observed trends in mean repellency over exposure time included the following: (1) P. dioica oil, M. alternifolia oil, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid, DEET, and IR3535 exhibited increasing mean repellency over time; (2) oils of N. cataria, A. balsamifera, M. piperita, and dodecanoic acid exhibited relatively constant mean repellency over time; and (3) L. graveolens oil and nonanoic acid exhibited a general decrease in mean repellent activity over time. These studies identified the essential oils of N. cataria and A. balsamifera as effective spatial repellents at reduced concentrations compared to those of DEET. Additional research is required to elucidate the modes of action and potential synergism of repellents and essential oil components for enhanced repellency activity.

Comparative Analysis of Phytocompound Variations in Leaves, Bark and Roots of Allspice (Pimenta Dioica) Collections in Tanzania

Allspice, scientifically known as Pimenta dioica, holds potential as a natural source of beneficial compounds that have been historically used to address various human health concerns. The aim of this research was to explore differences in the compounds found in parts of Allspice (i.e., the leaves, bark, and roots). Petroleum ether, dichloromethane, and methanol were used to extract the substances from each part; the resulting crude extracts were then analyzed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. To interpret the obtained data, the National Institute of Standards and Technology database was referred to for a spectra analysis. The findings indicated that the leaves contained 81 phytocompounds, bark had 18 types, and roots exhibited 12 varieties. Prominent phytocompounds found in the leaves were eugenol in 72.24% – 73.91% of the total compounds detected. Bark was primarily composed of 1,4-Methanoazulene, decahydro-4,8,8-trimethyl-9-methylene-, [1S-(1. alpha.,3a. beta.,4. alpha.,8a. beta.)] in 74.35% – 84.24%; while roots contained γ-sitosterol at an 86.08% concentration level. In terms of solvent performance, methanol exhibited high efficiency on leaves, while dichloromethane demonstrated optimal results on bark and roots. The findings confirm significant variations in phytocompound composition in different parts of Allspice and underscores the importance of considering specific types of phytocompounds, as well as extraction techniques to achieve valuable outcomes.

Insecticidal property of Pimenta dioica leaf extract against red flour beetle -Tribolium castaneum (HERBST)

Insecticidal property of Pimenta dioica leaf extract against red flour beetle -Tribolium castaneum (HERBST)

Eugenol-Rich Essential Oil from Pimenta dioica: In Vitro and In Vivo Potentialities against Leishmania amazonensis.

Pimenta dioica L. is one the most recognized species with diverse biological activities. In this study, in vitro activity and in vivo efficacy of essential oil from P. dioica (EO-Pd) was evaluated. The main compound was also included in the animal studies and its in silico prediction related to biological activities, molecular ligands, drug likeness, and ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) properties are listed. The chemical composition analyzed by GC-MS retrieved 45 components, which the most abundant compound was the eugenol (80.1%). The EO-Pd was able to inhibit the growth of L. amazonensis (IC50 = 9.7 ± 0.7 and 11.3 ± 2.1 µg/mL, promastigotes and amastigotes, respectively). The cytotoxicity assay showed a CC50 of 104.5 ± 0.9 µg/mL and a selectivity index of 9. In the model of cutaneous leishmaniasis in BALB/c mice, the effect of EO-Pd and eugenol was observed after treatment at 30 mg/kg by intralesional route with 5 administrations every 4 days. In the in silico predictions, some targets that justified the antileishmanial activity of eugenol and good drug like properties for this compound, were obtained. This study showed for first time the potential of EO-Pd to inhibit L. amazonensis, which could be linked to the activity of major compound eugenol.

Phytochemical characterisation, antioxidant and anti-microbial efficacy of allspice Pimenta dioica

Pimenta dioica (L.) Merr (also known as Pimenta Officinalis) belongs to the family Myrtaceae is globally as valuable spices. This is commonly known as allspice, Jamaica pepper and Pimento. This spice possesses the characteristic flavor and aroma of clove, nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper, all combined in this one spice, hence named allspice. Allspice is used for treating indigestion which might be due to the abundance of the common polyphenol Eugenol , known to stimulate digestive enzymes. The present study was aimed in analysing the bioactive compounds present in P.diocia. Additionally, the antibacterial efficacy of P.diocia was determined. GC-MS Pattern of the ethanolic extract confirms the presence of eugenol a potent bioactive compound and qualitative analysis revealed the presence of various phytoconstituents. The ethanolic extract of plant proved to have anti-microbial effect on disease causing microbes such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa ,Bacillus anthracis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus pneumoniae with MIC of 5mg of the ethanolic extract which may be due to the different phytocontituents in the plant extract and partly due to eugenol a potent anti-microbial compound. The results of the present study indicate that Pimenta dioica is a good source of bioactive compounds and possess antibacterial activity which might be due to presence of eugenol.

Phytochemical and physicochemical profiling of Pimenta dioica (L.) extracts using diverse solvents and drying methods: A comprehensive scientific investigation

Pimenta dioica (L.), commonly known as allspice, is a versatile plant with various culinary and medicinal applications. In this research study, we conducted phytochemical, physicochemical, and TLC analyses to explore the chemical composition and characteristics of P. dioica leaves dried using different techniques. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, phenols, proteins, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids in the extracts. Notably, the aqueous extract exhibited the highest diversity of phytochemical compounds. The physicochemical analysis provided valuable information regarding moisture content, ash values, extractive yields, and pH characteristics of the dried leaves. Furthermore, TLC profiling facilitated the identification of chemical constituents and their migration patterns in the extracts. The results demonstrated variations in the composition of phytochemicals and the presence of specific compounds based on the drying method and solvent used. This research contributes to the understanding of the P. dioica chemical profile and provides insights for potential applications in the fields of medicine, food, and natural products.

Antifungal mode of action of bay, allspice, and ajowan essential oils and their constituents against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides via overproduction of reactive oxygen species and downregulation of ergosterol biosynthetic genes

This study was conducted to investigate the antifungal activity of 135 plant essential oils (EOs) and their constituents against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz.) Penz. and Sacc. Among the EOs, bay (Pimenta racemosa), allspice (Pimenta dioica), and ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi) showed 100 % inhibition of C. gloeosporioides at 10, 5, and 5 μl/paper disc, respectively. Of their constituents, (-)-α-pinene, (+)-α-pinene, thymol, eugenol, isoeugenol, 4-allylphenol, and carvacrol exhibited 100 % inhibition of growth at 10, 10, 10, 5, 5, 2.5, and 1.25 μl/paper disc, respectively. In an antifungal bioassay of artificial blends, eugenol, 4-allylphenol, and thymol were determined to be the major contributors to the antifungal activity of bay, allspice, and ajowan EOs. Confocal laser scanning microscopy images indicate the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell membrane disruption in C. gloeosporioides treated with the EOs or their constituents. In addition, a decrease in ergosterol content and downregulation of ergosterol biosynthetic genes were confirmed in treated C. gloeosporioides. Based on these results, we attribute the antifungal actions of bay, allspice, and ajowan EOs and their active constituents to ROS generation and downregulation of ergosterol biosynthetic genes.

Biofabricated copper ferrite nanoparticles: a potential nanosorbent for the removal of Pb (II) ions from aqueous media

In the present study, we describe a facile strategy for the easy removal of the heavy metal ion, Pb (II) using biosynthesized copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) Nanoparticles (Nps) prepared via a cost-effective and eco-friendly method using Pimenta dioica leaf extract. The structural characterization was performed using UV–Visible, FT-IR, XRD, XPS, TG, SEM - EDS and TEM techniques. Various characterization techniques showed that the biosynthesized CuFe2O4 nanoparticles have spherical shape with minimum aggregation and possess a size range between 7 and 16 nm. Batch experiments were carried out to analyze the adsorption efficiency of CuFe2O4 Nps by varying different experimental conditions such as pH, adsorbent dose and initial metal ion concentration. From the atomic absorption spectroscopy results, the optimum removal efficiency (99.69%) occurred at a contact time of 90 min in the solution having pH 6 with 0.06 g of nanoadsorbent. The experimental data were analyzed using adsorption isotherm and fitted with kinetic models. In the present study, we report the the highest removal efficiency of 99.69% for Pb (II) ions with minimum experimental parameters which is greater than other similar reported studies. The novel CuFe2O4 nanosorbent synthesized in the present study is highly effective in eliminating toxic pollutants. They also possess outstanding recycling characteristics for the effective removal of Pb (II) ions from aqueous media.This cost-effective and ecofriendly strategy could be utilized for addressing the emerging water contamination.

Comparative analysis of synthesized silver nanoparticles using Madhuca longifolia and Pimenta dioica, for their antibiofilm activities

The present study aims to compare the anti-biofilm activity of green synthesized silver nanoparticles by using the two indigenous plants Madhuca longifolia and Pimenta dioica. Among several metallic nanoparticles that are involved in biomedical application, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are engrossing all the attentions from researchers green synthesized AgNPs are most useful in the field of medicine. AgNPs are most useful because of small particles size, non-toxic effects and increased activity. Madhuca is the largest and widely distributed genus of the plant family Sapotaceae encompasses more than 110 species. The prepared nanoparticles were successfully characterized by using UV–vis spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR and Zeta potential. Further anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities of the synthesized AgNPs were determined. anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities were done against Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). A comparative study was done between Madhuca longifolia and Pimenta dioica using two different microorganisms and found the Madhuca longifolia have better antibiofilm activity than Pimenta dioica. The study aimed to check and compare the antibiofilm activity of both the synthesized AgNPs because these plant sources have been traditionally used for many other applications apart from antibacterial action.

Aktivitas Makan Orangutan Kalimantan (Pongo pygmaeus wurmbii) di Taman Nasional Tanjung Puting Wilayah Camp Leakey Kab. Kotawaringin Barat Sebagai Penunjang Materi Konservasi

Conservation activities for the Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus wurmbii) are strongly influenced by several factors in environmental and habitat conditions so that the sustainability of the orangutan population is maintained, including playing an important role in terms of feeding activities and the ability to adapt to eating orangutans in reintroduction areas through monitoring activities in the daily lives of orangutans, emphasizing knowledge of eating activities in the Leakey camp area as an orangutan release conservation institution needs to be done. Observation of the eating activity of orangutans was carried out using the Focal Animal Sampling method. All activities carried out by individuals are observed and recorded. Observations were made starting from leaving the nest at around 06.30 WIB and finished observing at 17.30 WIB. Observations include diet (length of time), type of feed, portion of feed consumed. The data obtained will be tabulated and the percentage determined by displaying the data in the form of tables and charts. The length of time for eating activities of the Gara orangutans occupies the second highest percentage for eating activities, namely 33.0%, resting activity is 55.2% as the most activity and making nests 11.8%, Casper orangutans have the highest feeding activity, which is 91.4% and the second highest play activity 4.6% and the third to make a nest 4.1%. The types of feed consumed by Gara orangutans were 8 species consisting of Gluta renghas L 9%, Mangifera odorata 18%, Pandanus helicopus 14%, Symlecos celastrifolia 4%, Osbornia octodonta 4%, Musa acuminate 23%, Coptotermes curvignathus 14%, Coptotermes sp5% and Casper orangutan 4 species consisting of Diaphania indica s 46%, Mangifera odorata 23%, Musa acuminate 27%, Pimenta officinalis 4%. The portion of feed consumed by the orangutans Gara and Casper is dominated by the fruit portion.