Root Extract Research Articles

Achyranthes Aspera: An Analgesic Approach with Seed, Leaves and Root Extract

Achyranthes Aspera: An Analgesic Approach with Seed, Leaves and Root Extract

Antioxidant and antiamylase activities of leaf and root extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam

Ziziphus mauritiana Lam is a plant species widely used in Mali for its medical virtues to treat various diseases including Diabetes. The present study aims to examine the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of leaf and root extracts of Z. mauritiana Lam collected in Bamako. Phytochemical screening and assay were carried out using conventional methods. The DPPH test was used to evaluate the anti-radical activity, and the antidiabetic potential of the extracts was estimated via the α-amylase inhibition test. Characterization tests revealed the presence of free tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenoids, triterpenes, alkaloids, saponins and anthraquinones in all our extracts. The root extracts revealed higher contents of polyphenols (561.40±22.4 to 218.00±30.2 mg EAG/g) and flavonoids (54.26±4.9 to 132.56±6, 82 mg EQ/g) whatever the solvent, with the exception of Ethyl Acetate. Ethanol extracts showed the best anti-radical potentiel. The IC50was 58.13±1.85 µg/mL for roots and 85.19±0.415 µg/mL for leaves. The results provide a better understanding of the medicinal properties of Z. mauritiana Lam and pave the way for management strategies for diabetes and diseases associated with oxidative stress.

Effect of Beta Vulgaris Extract on the Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) and Rat Embryo Fibroblast (REF)

The study aimed to study the cytotoxic effect of the aqueous extract of Beta vulgaris on the breast carcinoma cell MCF-7 and the normal cell REF. Six diluted concentrations of the aqueous extract of the plant roots including (7.8, 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250, 500) µg/ml, with three exposure periods of 24, 48, and 72 hrs. The quantitative estimation of the active compounds of the aqueous extract was calculated. It was found that the aqueous extract of plant contains many active compounds such as (tannins, phenols, flavonoids and glycosides). The effect of the extract on normal REF cells after an exposure period of 72 hrs, which is represented by the concentration that causes inhibition of the proliferation of normal REF cells by 50%, is (IC50) with the aqueous extract of B. vulgaris was (6.35) mg/ml. The aqueous extract of plant was tested to detect the cytotoxic effect of the aqueous extract and all concentrations used on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell. The results showed that increase in the percentage rate of inhibition of cancer cell growth was observed during the three exposure periods of 24, 48, and 72 hrs. There is significant differences at (p≤0.05) and compared with the control. The rate of inhibition ranges at the lowest concentration 500 µg/ml were (92.204±1.455) (93.616 ±1.376) and (95.325±1.407) respectively.

Antimicrobial Activity of Plant Extracts of Artemisia , Citrullus and Capparis

The current study shows the effectiveness of three plant extracts of Artemisia, Citrullus fruits and Capparis roots against the microbes of some common and important pathogens, which have become resistant to many antibiotics due to genetic mutations that occur in them, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia .The sensitivity of the studied isolates varied according to the type of extract and the type of solvent used, Alcoholic or Aqueous, as well as on the type of bacteria. While the effect of the effectiveness of the extracts of the fruits of the Citrullus plant and the roots of the capers plant showed a variation from one bacteria to another and from one extract to another.

Comparative Biochemical and Pharmacodynamic Analyses of Asarum heterotropoides Fr. Schmidt var. Mandshuricum (Maxim) Kitag and Asarum sieboldii Miq var. Seoulense Nakai Roots

Background:Asarum heterotropoides and Asarum sieboldii are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. However, little is known about how they differ in terms of essential oil (EO) and ethanol extract (EE) content and composition. Moreover, the effect of various geographical locations on the essential oil (EO), ethanol extract (EE), and asarinin content of different Asarum samples remains unknown. We tested four root-drying methods, i.e., soil removal and shade drying (P1), water washing and shade drying (P2), and water washing and drying at 30 °C (P3) and 40 °C (P4). We used LC-MS and GC-MS to investigate these differences. We also investigated the pharmacodynamic effects of EO and EE. Results: Overall, the EO, EE and asarinin contents of the analysed samples were 19.21–51.53 μL.g−1, 20.00–45.00 μL.g−1, and 1.268–2.591 mg.g−1, respectively. P1 treatment yielded the lowest volatile oil content compared to the other three treatments. GC-MS analysis revealed 78 EO components. Among the six major EO components, eucarvone, 3,5-dimethoxytoluene, and methyl eugenol were higher in A. heterotropoides than in A. sieboldii. However, the latter had a higher myristicin content. LC-MS analysis identified 888 EE components in roots and leaves of A. heterotropoides and A. sieboldii; 317 differentially accumulated metabolites were identified. EO and EE showed a dose-dependent reduction in the degree of swelling and an increase in the inhibition rate of drug concentration on acetic acid writhing in mice. Asarum EO proved to be more effective than EE in the pharmacodynamic study. Conclusions: We conclude that Asarum species show inter- and intra-specific differences in EO and EE content and composition, which may influence the pharmacodynamics of Asarum root extracts.

Formulation and Characteristics of Film Forming Hydrogel (FFH) of Yellow Root Extract (Arcangelisia Flava (L.) Merr.) As Wound Healing for Burns

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different concentrations of yellow root extract (Arcangelisia Flava (L.) Merr.) and film-forming hydrogel (FFH) polymer on the physicochemical characteristics and stability of the preparation. The method for making FFH is carried out using varying concentrations (%) of 0,5 extract, 1, and 1,5, as well as variations in concentration (%) of PVP and PVA (2,8:15,2; 2,8:17,2; 2,8:19,2). F1 – F9 were evaluated for physicochemical characteristics, including organoleptic, pH, spreadability, adhesive power, drying time, viscosity, stickiness, and mechanical properties. Next, freeze-thaw stability and data analysis were carried out using the LSD test at a confidence level of 95%. This research indicates that the FFH formulation of yellow root extract has good characteristics in the F1 formula with an extract concentration of 0.5% and a concentration (%) of PVP and PVP polymer (2.8:15.2), which meets all physicochemical characteristic tests. The results of data analysis using SPSS showed that the extract concentration and polymer concentration had a significant effect (0.05<0.05) on the characteristics and stability of the Yellow Root Extract Film Forming Hydrogel (FFH) preparation.

Allelopathic effects of leaves extract of parthenium hysterophorus l. On seed germination of three Rice varieties

This study investigates the allelopathic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus L. leaf and root extracts on the germination and growth of three rice varieties (Hira dhan, BRRI dhan-28, and BRRI dhan-29) in Bangladesh. Leaf and root extracts of P. hysterophorus were prepared at different concentrations and applied to rice seeds in a controlled environment. Results showed that low concentrations of the extracts inhibited seed germination and growth, with significant differences among rice varieties (p < 0.05). Hira dhan exhibited the most sensitivity, with germination rates as low as 42.86% under high extract concentrations. In contrast, BRRI dhan-29 showed a stimulatory effect, particularly at low concentrations. The shoot and root lengths of Hira dhan and BRRI dhan-29 were significantly inhibited at higher concentrations, while BRRI dhan-28 demonstrated growth stimulation. The fresh and dry weights of roots and shoots varied significantly among the varieties with the greatest inhibitory effect observed in BRRI dhan-29. These findings align with previous studies, suggesting that allelochemicals in P. hysterophorus, such as parthenin and phenolic acids, play a critical role in inhibiting rice growth. The study emphasizes the need for further research on allelopathic interactions and suggests that controlling P. hysterophorus at the crop emergence stage could mitigate its suppressive effects on rice growth. Bangladesh J. Bot. 53(3): 411-421, 2024 (September)

Assessing the efficacy of Stemona collinsiae roots extract against third-stage larvae of Gnathostoma spinigerum and its safety profiles

Gnathostomiasis, caused by the advanced third-stage larvae of Gnathostoma spinigerum, demands novel treatment avenues. The ethanolic root extract of Stemona collinsiae has been postulated to have anthelminthic properties, suggesting its potential as an alternative remedy. In this study, S. collinsiae roots were collected, identified, and extracted with 95 % ethanol. The crude extracts were standardized using didehydrostemofoline as chemical marker. The efficacy of the S. collinsiae root extract against third-stage larvae of G. spinigerum and its toxicity to Wistar rats were evaluated. Both in vitro and in vivo tests were performed, where the in vitro tests assessed the anthelminthic potential of S. collinsiae extract against G. spinigerum larvae, while in vivo tests examined the extract's efficacy against G. spinigerum larvae in infected Wistar rats and the efficacy was compared with albendazole. Parallelly, Wistar rats underwent acute and sub-chronic toxicity tests to establish the safe dosage of the extract. The in vitro tests showcased significant anthelminthic activity, marked by discernible morphological alterations in the exposed larvae. Acute toxicity proved fatal at 2000 mg/kg body weight, while a dose of 300 mg/kg proved non-toxic. Using the Globally Harmonized Classification System, an LD50 of 500 mg/kg was determined. In vivo trials revealed a pronounced decline in G. spinigerum larvae among rats treated with the S. collinsiae extract. The larvae were also observed to be encysted post-treatment, while those treated with albendazole were not encysted. The S. collinsiae extract, with its noteworthy in vitro efficacy and favorable safety metrics in rodents, can be a potential anthelminthic agent. The diminished inflammatory response compared to albendazole hints at S. collinsiae being a safer gnathostomiasis treatment alternative. The promising results in these preliminary trials warrant a deeper investigation to determine the root extract's optimal dosing, suitable delivery methods, and its broader clinical implications.

Quality Control Method (UPLC-PDA) of Ajuga parviflora Benth. and Its Antiadipogenic Effect on Differentiated Preadipocytes

IntroductionAjuga parviflora is traditionally used for fever, diabetes, and digestive problems. Currently, Ultraperformance liquid chromatography-Photodiode array (UPLC-PDA) method to determine ajugasterone C, cyasterone, and vanillic acid in A. parviflora was focused to develop and validate a method for quality control perspective. Further, the evaluation of antiadipogenic and antidiabetic potential of A. parviflora was also targeted. MethodsUPLC-PDA method was developed and validated for targeted compounds as per International Council on Harmonisation guidelines. The validated method was used to determine marker compounds in A. parviflora extracts (Ethanol: EtOH, 50% EtOH, and water; leaves and roots). Further, UPLC-ELSD was used to determine free sugars in samples. Moreover, the antiadipogenic effect of A. parviflora extracts was examined on 3T3-L1 murine preadipocytes cell line. Cells were subjected to various dosages of leaves and root extracts, and the extent of lipid accumulation was evaluated. Furthermore, cells were treated with different extracts prior to hydrogen peroxide exposure, and then the effects of A. parviflora treatments on oxidative stress, cell survival, and insulin sensitisation were assessed. ResultsThe validated UPLC-PDA method was found reproducible to determine ajugasterone C, cyasterone, and vanillic acid. These compounds were found in all the samples. Biologically, leaves and roots extract of A. parviflora drastically suppressed adipogenesis by lowering intracellular lipid accumulation in dose-dependent manner. They improved insulin sensitivity by promoting glucose uptake and protected cellular health from oxidative damage by reducing reactive oxygen species generation and reversing apoptosis. ConclusionsFindings suggested that ethanol extract of leaves exhibited potent antiadipogenic properties and UPLC-PDA will be a reproducible method to assess quality of A. parviflora and its derived products.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Root Extract as a Green Corrosion Inhibitor of Steel in 3% NaCl

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Root Extract as a Green Corrosion Inhibitor of Steel in 3% NaCl

Effect of Curcumin Intake on Skeletal Muscle Oxygen Saturation Parameters in Older Participants.

Aging is associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO). Curcumin has been shown to increase NO bioavailability due to its ability to neutralize ROS, preventing oxidative stress. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of curcumin intake on skeletal muscle oxygen parameters and exercise tolerance in response to exercise in older people. Changes in circulating levels of NO metabolites were also investigated. Older subjects consumed 10 g of turmeric root extract from Curcuma longa L. (containing 95.33% of the total curcuminoids) or placebo in a randomized, double-blind, crossover study. A time of 2 h after ingestion, the participants performed one set of rhythmic handgrip exercise until the limit of tolerance, followed by 5 min of recovery. During exercise and exercise recovery, skeletal muscle oxygen saturation parameters were recorded. During exercise, the amplitude of deoxyhemoglobin was greater after curcumin intake compared to placebo (CUR: 13.11 ± 9.52 vs. PLA: 10.22 ± 8.39 μM, p = 0.030). Furthermore, a faster skeletal muscle oxygen resaturation during exercise recovery was observed after curcumin compared to placebo (CUR: 1.01 ± 0.65 vs. PLA: 0.32 ± 0.20%.s-1, p = 0.004). These results were associated with significant changes in plasma nitrite (CUR: 6.82 ± 11.68 vs. PLA: -4.94 ± 17.28%, p = 0.028). There was no statistical difference in the total hemoglobin, exercise time until fatigue, and plasma nitrate between groups. The present study suggests that curcumin improves muscle oxygenation status at the capillary level in older adults by possibly improving muscle oxygen extraction and/or delivery, with no effect on exercise tolerance.

Formulation and Evaluation of Nano-particles Loaded with Salvia miltiorriza by Homogenization Method

Aims: The aim of the present study is to formulate and evaluate the Salvia miltorrhizaloaded Nano-structured lipid carriers(SM-NLC) in order to enhance the aqueous solubility and bioavailability as the efficacy of Salvia miltiorriza extract has been restricted due to less solubility and low bioavailability. Introduction: Salvia miltiorrhiza is a well-known Chinese herb that belongs to the family Labiatae. The herb has been widely used to treat various kinds of ailments, and its main phytochemical constituents are Tanshinone I, Tanshinone II, Miltirone, and Salvionolic acid, which are mainly found in the extract of roots. These Phytochemical constituents are responsible for several pharmacological activities such as anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular diseases etc. Objective: Nano-lipid carriers are useful in enhancing the solubility of poor water-soluble drugs. The faulty lattice arrangement of Nano-lipid carriers (NLC) provides better entrapment, thus providing more space for the drug to incorporate in the lattice structure of NLC, improving the stability of the formulation and preventing the drug leakage from the matrix. Methods: SM-NLCs were prepared by using oleic acid and stearic acid as liquid and solid lipids, respectively and tween 80 as the surfactant by high-speed homogenization method. The optimization of SM- NLC was performed by applying the Box-Behnken experimental design. The independent variables were chosen as the amount of lipids, surfactant concentration, and sonication time, whereas dependent variables were opted as particle size and entrapment efficiency. The influence of different proportions of the lipids (Stearic acid and Oleic acid) and the surfactant (Tween 80) was analysed on the dependent variables. The optimized formulation was evaluated for Particle size (241.7nm±3), Polydispersity index (.249 ±0.05), Zeta Potential (-14.6±5), and entrapment efficiency (82.49%). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed to identify the surface morphology, and the entrapment of the drug into the nanostructured matrix was verified by Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The interaction between the formulations was confirmed by performing FTIR. The dialysis bag method was performed to calculate the in vitro drug release from the optimized formulation. Additionally, a stability study was performed for 1 month of duration. Result: The SM NLCs were successfully formulated based on the Box-Behnken design. Particle size, PDI, zeta potential, and EE demonstrated less than a 5% difference compared to the predicted value. The formulations did not show any possible interactions with the lipids. The optimized formulations were found stable after one month of stability studies. Conclusion: The above results confirmed that Salvia miltiorrhiza could be effectively formulated in the form of a nanostructured-lipid carrier system. The formulation and evaluation of nanoparticles have been performed successfully using the homogenization method.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract in Malaria Treatment: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Directions

Malaria remains a critical global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents. This review examines the therapeutic potential of the ethanol root-extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum, a plant traditionally used in West Africa for malaria treatment. Utilizing the Plasmodium berghei rodent model, which mirrors human malaria, we assess the extract’s efficacy in restoring haematological markers, safety profile, and potential as an adjunct or alternative therapy. Sphenocentrum jollyanum, known for its rich phytochemical composition, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, has demonstrated significant restorative effects in preliminary studies. The extract improved hemoglobin levels, red blood cell counts, and platelet counts in infected mice, indicating potential benefits in mitigating malaria-induced anemia and other haematological abnormalities. Its mechanisms of action include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Despite its promising results, rigorous safety evaluations are necessary, including acute and chronic toxicity studies, to ensure its safe use. Future research should focus on clinical trials to validate efficacy, optimize dosage, and explore combination therapies with standard antimalarial drugs. The review emphasizes the need for standardized preparation methods, quality control, and integration into public health strategies to enhance malaria management, particularly in resource-limited regions. Keywords: Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract, Malaria, Treatment, Efficacy, Safety.

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) Improves Spatial Memory, Anxiety and Depressive-like Behavior in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease.

Withania somnifera (WS), also known as ashwagandha, is a popular botanical supplement used to treat various conditions including memory loss, anxiety and depression. Previous studies from our group showed an aqueous extract of WS root (WSAq) enhances cognition and alleviates markers for depression in Drosophila. Here, we sought to confirm these effects in the 5xFAD mouse model of β-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation. Six- to seven-month-old male and female 5xFAD mice were treated with WSAq in their drinking water at 0 mg/mL, 0.5 mg/mL or 2.5 mg/mL for four weeks. In the fourth week of treatment, spatial memory, anxiety and depressive-like symptoms were evaluated. At the conclusion of behavioral testing, brain tissue was harvested, immunohistochemistry was performed, and the cortical expression of antioxidant response genes was evaluated. Both concentrations of WSAq improved spatial memory and reduced depressive and anxiety-related behavior. These improvements were accompanied by a reduction in Aβ plaque burden in the hippocampus and cortex and an attenuation of activation of microglia and astrocytes. Antioxidant response genes were upregulated in the cortex of WSAq-treated mice. Oral WSAq treatment could be beneficial as a therapeutic option in AD for improving disease pathology and behavioral symptoms. Future studies focused on dose optimization of WSAq administration and further assessment of the mechanisms by which WSAq elicits its beneficial effects will help inform the clinical potential of this promising botanical therapy.

Effect of Spicatoside a on Anti-Osteosarcoma MG63 Cells through Reactive Oxygen Species Generation and the Inhibition of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR Pathway.

Osteosarcoma is a primary malignant tumor found in the bones of children and adolescents. Unfortunately, many patients do not respond well to treatment and succumb to the illness. Therefore, it is necessary to discover novel bioactive compounds to overcome therapeutic limitations. Liriope platyphylla Wang et Tang is a well-known herb used in oriental medicine. Studies have shown that metabolic diseases can be clinically treated using the roots of L. platyphylla. Recent studies have demonstrated the anticarcinoma potential of root extracts; however, the exact mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the anti-osteosarcoma activity of a single compound extracted from the dried roots of L. platyphylla. We purified Spicatoside A (SpiA) from the dried roots of L. platyphylla. SpiA significantly inhibited the proliferation of human osteosarcoma MG63 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. SpiA also regulated the expression of various downstream proteins that mediate apoptosis (PARP, Bcl-2, and Bax), cell growth (cyclin D1, Cdk4, and Cdk6), angiogenesis (VEGF), and metastasis (MMP13). The Proteome Profiler Human Phospho-Kinase Array Kit showed that the AKT signaling protein was a target of SpiA in osteosarcoma cells. We also found that SpiA suppressed the constitutive activation of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR-p70S6K1 signaling pathway. We further validated the effects of SpiA on the AKT signaling pathway. SpiA induced autophagosome formation and suppressed necroptosis (a form of programmed cell death). SpiA increased the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and led to the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. N-acetylcysteine (NAC)-induced inhibition of ROS generation reduced SpiA-induced AKT inhibition, apoptotic cell death, and anti-metastatic effects by suppressing cell migration and invasion. Overall, these results highlight the anti-osteosarcoma effect of SpiA by inhibiting the AKT signaling pathway through ROS generation, suggesting that SpiA may be a promising compound for the treatment of human osteosarcoma.

Comparative Evaluation of Herbal Lip Balms Formulated Using Various Natural Bases

TThe demand for natural cosmetics, including lip balms, has increased in recent years. Studies on the physicochemical characteristics of the designed lip balms are scarce, though. As a result, this comparative study aims to develop lip balms with carrot root extract as a coloring pigment using various natural bases and test the physicochemical characteristics of developed lip balms in order to prepare the best formulation. Four distinct softening agents (White soft paraffin, mango butter, avocado butter, and kokum butter) and two distinct hardening agents (Candelilla wax bees wax) were combined in varying amounts to prepare eight different lip balm formulations. The formulations were subjected to various physicochemical evaluation studies such as melting point, breaking point, spreadability, water resistance and organoleptic evaluation like color and texture. According to this study, carrot root extract may be used as a natural coloring agent in lip balm formulations because of its antioxidant properties. The results showed that the four formulations with mango butter:bees wax (1.5:1), white soft paraffin:Candelilla wax(2:1), Mango butter:Candelilla wax(2:1) and Kokum butter: Candelilla wax(2.5:1) were the best when compared to standard. The research study’s findings suggested that in the future, candelilla wax and mango butter can be effective alternatives for others as hardening and softening agents, respectively.

Aktivitas Antioksidan Fraksi Larut Etil Asetat dari Ekstrak Akar Tabar Kedayan (Aristolochia papilifolia Ding Hou)

Kedayan root is a medicinal plant that is traditionally used by the community as medicine, especially as an antidote to poison. This research aimed to determine the antioxidant activity of the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of Tabar Kedayan root extract (Aristolochia papillfolia Ding hou). The fractionation method used is solid-liquid extraction using ethyl acetate solvent to obtain a soluble fraction of ethyl acetate, then vacuum liquid chromatography fractionation using the eluent ratio n-hexane: ethyl acetate and obtain fraction A, fraction B, fraction C, fraction D, fraction E, fraction F. Testing of antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method spectrophotometrically. The data obtained was analyzed using linear regression to determine IC50. The results of the C fraction test on the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of Tabar Kedayan roots (A. papillfolia) have antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 139.11 ppm.

Pharmacophylogenetic insights into Scutellaria strigillosa Hemsl.: chloroplast genome and untargeted metabolomics, quantitative analysis and antibacterial analysis.

Scutellaria strigillosa Hemsl., known for its traditional use in Chinese herbal medicine, is valued for heat-clearing and detoxifying, promoting diuresis, reducing swelling, alleviating pain, and preventing miscarriage. Despite its historical use, comprehensive studies on pharmacophylogenetic analysis, including genetic and chemical profiles and the antimicrobial activity of S. strigillosa are still lacking. Understanding these aspects is crucial for fully realizing its therapeutic potential and ensuring sustainable use. This study aims to elucidate these aspects through comparative genomics, metabolomics, and antimicrobial assays with Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi and Scutellaria barbata D. Don. The chloroplast genome of S. strigillosa was assembled, measuring 152,533 bp, and revealing a high degree of conservation, especially in the protein-coding regions, and identified four regions trnK(UUU)-rps16, trnN(GUU)-trnR(ACG), accD-psaI, psbE-petL) of variability that could serve as phylogenetic markers. The phylogenetic analysis revealed a closer genetic relationship of S. strigillosa with S. tuberifera and S. scordifolia than traditionally classified, suggesting a need for taxonomic reevaluation within the genus. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis in negative ion mode was used to explore the chemical diversity among these species, revealing distinct variations in their chemical compositions. S. strigillosa shared a closer chemical profile with S. barbata, aligning with phylogenetic findings. Metabolomic identification through Progenesis QI software resulted in the tentative identification of 112 metabolites, including a substantial number of flavonoids, diterpenoids, iridoid glycosides, phenylethanoid glycosides, and others. HPLC analysis further detailed the concentrations of 12 actives across the species, highlighting the variation in compound content. S. strigillosa shows antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, similar to S. baicalensis root extracts. This research enhances the understanding of the phylogenetic and phytochemical profiles and the antibacterial activity of S. strigillosa, offering new insights into its medicinal properties. The findings suggest a need for taxonomic reevaluation within the genus and underscore the potential antibacterial activity of S. strigillosa for therapeutic applications. Further studies are encouraged to explore its full medicinal potential and contribute to the sustainable development of Scutellaria species.

Structural characterization of polysaccharides from Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer root and their triggered potential immunoregulatory and radioprotective activities

With people's increasing awareness of healthy diet, the diverse health-promoting functions of ginseng have been widely recognized. As one of the key functional components, ginseng polysaccharides have attracted increasing research interest. Here, three purified polysaccharide fractions, GPS-1a, GPS-1b, and GPS-2, were obtained from the root extract of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer. Structurally, GPS-1a and GPS-1b were both linked in a → 6)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → pattern but composed of glucose and galactose in molar ratios of 9.76:0.24 and 9.81:0.19. In contrast, GPS-2 was composed of glucose, galactose, arabinose, rhamnose, and galacturonic acid in a molar ratio of 1.82:1.94:0.79:0.52:4.93. The main backbone consisted of →4)-α-D-GalpA-(1→, →4)-α-D-GalpA-6OMe-(1→, →3, 4)-α-D-GalpA-(1→, →3)-α-L-Rhap-(1 → linages, and its branches are composed of →5)-α-L-Araf-(1→, →4)-β-D-Galp-(1→, →2)-β-D-Glcp-(1→, α-D-GalAp-(1→. Benefitting from this structural variance, GPS-2 exhibited the most significant immunoregulatory and radioprotective efficacies. Specifically, GPS-2 promoted TLR2, NF-κB, and TRAF6 protein expression levels, thereby significantly improving macrophage phagocytosis, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, and stimulation of NO, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α secretion, which activated RAW264.7 and splenic lymphocytes. The following radioprotection activity tests unveiled that GPS-2 increased the organ index, number of peripheral blood cells, cellularity of splenocytes, and bone marrow cell numbers in irradiated mice. This investigation revealed the contribution of polysaccharide structure characteristics to the bioactive expression and elucidated the potential utilization of GPS-2 as a radioprotective agent or immunomodulator.

Biological transformation of herbal extracts through Lactic Acid Bacteria fermentation: A study on Milk thistle and liquorice root extract

Herbal extracts have recently gained attention in pharmaceuticals, supplements, and cosmetics. This study explored the impact of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) fermentation on the functional properties of milk thistle and licorice root extracts to develop health-enhancing beverages. Biological transformation using microorganisms or enzymes was employed to improve the stability and efficacy of these extracts. After 36 h of fermentation, bacterial growth in both extracts surged approximately two-fold. The licorice root extract showed a particularly significant increase in total phenolic content and antioxidant activity, attributed to bacterial enzymes breaking down complex, high-molecular-weight phenolic compounds into simpler, more potent free phenols. Despite a reduction in total flavonoid content across all samples, this did not indicate a decline in biological activity. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed a notable increase in silymarin concentration in the milk thistle extract, rising from 0.59 mg mL−1 to 2.5 mg mL−1 after fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. Glycyrrhizic acid in the licorice root extract slightly decreased following fermentation with L. plantarum, while no significant changes were observed in extracts fermented with L. acidophilus. Cell viability studies during cold storage showed that the bacterial count in the licorice root extract remained within acceptable limits (106 CFU mL−1) for four weeks, ensuring ongoing health benefits. However, in the milk thistle-fermented extract, no viable cells were detected by the third week. These findings demonstrate the potential of LAB-fermented extracts for developing functional beverages with enhanced health benefits and therapeutic properties.